- Post author:The Outdoor Corps
- Post published:April 29, 2023
- Post comments:0 Comments
When it comes to adventure travel, having the right gear can make all the difference. Two popular options for backpack-style luggage are the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L bag and the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L bag. Both are designed with durability and functionality in mind, but there are some key differences. In this article, we will compare and contrast both bags so you can make an informed decision on your next travel bag purchase.
Travel Bag Comparison
Bag Descriptions
Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L is a versatile, multi-compartment bag that can be used as a backpack, shoulder bag, or briefcase. MLC stands for Maximum Legal Carry-on, meaning that this should meet requirements for most flights. The bag weighs 3 lb. 10 oz. and has a spacious main compartment with a clamshell opening, a padded laptop sleeve, and internal organization pockets. With its 100% recycled polyester and a TPU-film laminate, the MLC 45L is water-resistant and extremely durable.
Cotopaxi Allpa 42L
The Cotopaxi Allpa 42L is also a backpack-style bag designed for adventure travel. It weighs 4 lb. 2 oz. and has a spacious main compartment with a clamshell opening and internal organization pockets. The bag also has a separate compartment for a laptop or tablet and an exterior water bottle pocket. With its 840D ballistic nylon and TPU-coated 1000D polyester, the Allpa 42L is water-resistant and able to withstand the rigors of travel.
Core Differences
Both the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L and the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L are quality travel bags that will meet the demands of adventure travel. However, there are some key differences that may make some consumers opt for one over the other. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs, such as the gear you need to carry and budget.
Comfort
Both bags are designed to be comfortable to carry, but the Patagonia MLC bag has a slight edge in this area. The Patagonia MLC has padded shoulder straps and a comfortable back panel, making it comfortable for extended periods of carrying. The Cotopaxi Allpa also has padded shoulder straps and a comfortable back panel, but we’ve found it less comfortable overall than the Patagonia MLC.
Weight
The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L weighs 3 lb. 10 oz., while the Cotopaxi Allpa 42Lweighs 4 lb. 2oz. Although this may not seem like a significant weight difference, it can add up over the course of a long trip. For travelers who want to pack light, the Patagonia MLC has the edge here.
Materials
Both bags are made of high-quality materials designed to withstand the wear and tear of travel. The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L bag is made of durable 100% recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. Similarly, the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L bag is made with a TPU coating and ballistic nylon, protecting it from water and other damage. In our experience, over multiple years of use, the Patagonia MLC has better handled the wear the tear of frequent travel.
Price
The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L is slightly more expensive than the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L, with a price tag of around $240 compared to the Cotopaxi’s price of around $220. While both bags are designed to be durable and long-lasting, the Cotopaxi Allpa has the slight edge here if price is a consideration.
Pros and Cons
Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
Pros:
- Versatile: Can be used as a backpack, shoulder bag, or briefcase.
- Durable: Made of 100% recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate, making it water-resistant and extremely durable.
- Spacious: Large main compartment with a clamshell opening and multiple internal organization pockets, making it easy to stay organized.
- Comfortable: Padded shoulder straps and a comfortable back panel make it comfortable to carry for extended periods of time.
Cons:
- Fairly Large: At 45L, the MLC may be too big for some travelers, especially for shorter trips. The bag easily compresses in overhead storage, but it is the absolute maximum carry-on size.
- Less Stylish: The look of the Patagonia Black Hole MLC is very bland and monochromatic in comparison to the Cotopaxi Allpa and other bags.
Cotopaxi Allpa 42L
Pros:
- Stylish: The colorful, eye-catching design sets it apart from more traditional travel bags. With multiple color palettes to choose from, the Allpa is one of the most stylish options on the market.
- Water-resistant and Durable: Made of ballistic nylon with a TPU coating, the bag is protected from water and travel wear-and-tear damage. We’ve found the Patagonia MLC to be slightly more resistant to scrapes as noted above, but the Allpa still holds up quite well over the long-term.
- Rain Cover Included: The Allpa 42L comes with a rain cover for extra water protection, so a separate purchase of a rain cover is not necessary.
Cons:
- Weight: Weighs over 4 pounds, which may be a consideration for travelers who want to pack light. Since this a backpack or shoulder bag, those that a concerned with weight may want look into wheeled luggage.
- Slightly Smaller: At 42L, it may not be spacious enough for travelers who need to carry a lot of gear. But this could also enable more efficient packing.
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Tags: Cotopaxi, Gear, Luggage, Patagonia, Product Review, Travel, Travel Bags
