Backpacks Comparison • Updated January 2025
Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack vs Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
Choosing between the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Cotopaxi Allpa 35 is one of the most common dilemmas for one-bag travelers. Both are beloved by digital nomads, both fit carry-on requirements on most airlines, and both have passionate fan bases swearing their choice is the best.
Quick Verdict
Choose Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack if:
- Long walks through airports and cities (best harness system)
- Extended trips requiring the extra 5L capacity
- Travelers who value organization and multiple pockets
- Those who want Osprey's legendary lifetime warranty
Choose Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack if:
- Minimalist packers who prefer clamshell opening
- Those prioritizing durability (1000D TPU-coated nylon)
- Travelers who want unique colorways and sustainable materials
- Weekend warriors who don't need the extra capacity
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack | Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 40L | 35L |
| Weight | 3.5 lbs | 3.4 lbs |
| Laptop Sleeve | Up to 15" | Up to 15" |
| Carry Comfort | Excellent (padded hipbelt) | Good (minimal hipbelt) |
| Opening Style | Panel loader + front zip | Full clamshell |
| Material | 210D nylon | 1000D TPU-coated |
| Warranty | Lifetime (All Mighty) | Lifetime (Del Día) |
| Water Resistance | Water-resistant | Weather-resistant |
| Hideaway Straps | Yes (full coverage) | Yes (partial) |
Overview
Choosing between the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Cotopaxi Allpa 35 is one of the most common dilemmas for one-bag travelers. Both are beloved by digital nomads, both fit carry-on requirements on most airlines, and both have passionate fan bases swearing their choice is the best.
After testing both backpacks across multiple trips—from weekend city breaks to month-long international adventures—we've identified clear strengths and weaknesses for each. The Osprey Farpoint excels in comfort during long carries and has superior organization, while the Cotopaxi Allpa offers better durability and a more streamlined packing experience.
Your ideal choice depends on how you travel. Are you a "throw everything in and go" packer, or do you prefer compartmentalized organization? Do you carry your bag for hours through airports, or does it mostly ride in overhead bins? This comparison breaks down exactly which backpack suits which traveler.
Detailed Analysis
Carrying Comfort: Osprey Wins
Osprey has spent decades perfecting suspension systems, and it shows. The Farpoint 40 features an adjustable torso length, a properly padded hipbelt that actually transfers weight to your hips, and LightWire frame suspension. For travelers who walk significant distances—think navigating sprawling airports, hiking to hostels, or exploring cities on foot—the Farpoint is noticeably more comfortable when fully loaded.
The Cotopaxi Allpa has a simpler harness with a thinner hipbelt. It's adequate for short carries, but after 30+ minutes with 25 lbs on your back, you'll feel the difference. Cotopaxi prioritizes packability over suspension.
Packing & Organization: Different Philosophies
The Osprey Farpoint uses a panel-loading design with a large front zip pocket, internal mesh pockets, and a dedicated laptop compartment. It's ideal for travelers who like to organize their gear into specific spots—toiletries here, electronics there, clothes in the main compartment.
The Cotopaxi Allpa takes a clamshell approach, opening flat like a suitcase. There are mesh zip compartments on both sides when opened, plus external zip pockets for quick access. Minimalist packers love this: throw in packing cubes, zip it up, done. But if you like a lot of small pockets, the Osprey offers more options.
Durability: Cotopaxi Wins
The Cotopaxi Allpa uses 1000D TPU-coated nylon, which is significantly more abrasion-resistant than the Osprey's 210D nylon. The Allpa can handle being tossed around by baggage handlers, dragged across rough surfaces, and exposed to rain without showing wear.
The Osprey Farpoint is still a durable bag—we've seen them last years of heavy use—but the material is lighter weight by design. If you're particularly rough on gear or travel to rugged destinations, the Cotopaxi's tank-like construction has an edge.
Airline Compatibility: Both Compliant
Both bags are designed to meet carry-on size limits for most major airlines. The Farpoint 40 at 21" x 14" x 9" and the Allpa 35 at 20" x 13" x 9" both slide into overhead bins without issue on full-size planes.
Budget carriers (Spirit, Ryanair, etc.) with strict personal item requirements may push the limits with either bag. When traveling on these airlines, we recommend compressing the load with the built-in straps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for digital nomads?
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is generally better for digital nomads due to its extra capacity for cables and tech accessories, superior comfort for long carries between coworking spaces, and better laptop protection. The Cotopaxi Allpa works well for minimalist nomads who pack light.
Can both fit under the seat on flights?
Neither bag is designed as a personal item—both are carry-on size. For under-seat storage, consider their smaller variants: the Osprey Farpoint 26 or Cotopaxi Allpa 28L.
Which has better laptop protection?
The Osprey Farpoint has a dedicated, suspended laptop sleeve that keeps your device away from the bottom of the bag. The Cotopaxi's laptop sleeve is against the back panel, which provides good protection but less cushioning from impacts.
Are the colors really unique on the Cotopaxi?
Yes. Cotopaxi's Del Día line uses remnant fabrics, so every bag has a one-of-a-kind colorway. If you want a bag that stands out on the carousel, the Allpa is distinctive. Osprey offers more conventional solid colors.
Our Recommendation
For most travelers: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
The Osprey Farpoint 40 wins for most travelers due to its superior carrying comfort, better laptop protection, and lifetime warranty. The extra 5L capacity is noticeable when packing for longer trips.