When your trip is short and your carry needs are simple, there’s no reason to drag along extra liters of space you’ll never fill. That’s exactly why the Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack exists.
It’s compact, efficient, and built with the same rugged DNA as its bigger siblings, but scaled down for weekend escapes, quick overnights, or carry-on-only flights. If you’ve ever found your 40L pack half-empty, or struggled to fit a bulky bag into an overhead bin, the 28L offers a streamlined solution without sacrificing function.
You don’t need to overpack to travel well. With the right layout and smart design, 28 liters is more than enough.
Let’s explore why this small-but-mighty backpack might be the most underrated travel companion you’ll ever own.
What Is the Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Designed For?
The Allpa 28L is purpose-built for short-duration travel. Think weekend city breaks, overnight work trips, or minimalist one-bag journeys. If you prefer to move fast and light, without juggling luggage or waiting at baggage claim, this pack is built for you.
It’s also a smart pick for:
- Train travel and short domestic flights
- Business travelers who don’t need bulky rolling bags
- Digital nomads who carry only the essentials
- Day trips where a normal daypack lacks structure
At 28 liters, it’s always carry-on compliant, even on strict European budget airlines. And unlike standard backpacks, it opens like luggage, giving you full visibility and control when packing.
What Are the Key Features of the Allpa 28L?
Cotopaxi’s Allpa series is known for smart, functional design wrapped in rugged materials. The 28L carries that same standard, just in a tighter footprint.
Here’s what you’ll find:
- TPU-coated 1000D polyester shell with 840D ballistic nylon reinforcements
- Clamshell-style opening with internal mesh zippered compartments
- Padded laptop sleeve (up to 15″) + tablet pocket accessible from the side
- Top quick-access zip pocket for essentials
- YKK zippers with theft-resistant zipper loops
- Stowable shoulder straps with a low-profile harness system
- Foam-padded back panel for ventilation and comfort
- Multiple grab handles on all sides
- Included rain cover in a bottom zip compartment
The materials feel tough and premium, with a structured shell that resists sagging or collapse even when the bag isn’t fully packed.
How Comfortable and Practical Is the Allpa 28L?
At just 2.8 pounds, the Allpa 28L feels noticeably lighter than many comparable travel packs. That low base weight makes a difference during long walks through terminals, train stations, or city streets.
The contoured shoulder straps are slim but supportive. While it doesn’t come with a hip belt, you can purchase one separately if you want to stabilize heavier loads.
The foam back panel features molded air channels to reduce sweat buildup, and the overall fit stays tight to your back, no bouncing or awkward gaps.
And because of its compact dimensions, it handles tight spaces well. You can slip it under airline seats, stow it easily in shared car rides, and store it vertically in lockers or cubbies.
It’s built for movement. You’ll notice that immediately.
How Much Can You Pack in the Allpa 28L?
You can comfortably pack 2–3 days’ worth of clothing and essentials in this bag, especially if you use packing cubes.
A typical layout might include:
- 2 shirts
- 1 pair of pants or shorts
- 1 set of sleepwear
- 2–3 pairs of underwear and socks
- Compact toiletry kit
- 13–15″ laptop + tablet
- Cables and small tech accessories
- Lightweight jacket or sweater
The internal compartments divide items clearly and keep them in place. One side is a single large zippered mesh space, great for clothing, while the other has two smaller mesh pockets for cables, toiletries, or shoes.
The top zip pocket is handy for your passport, wallet, keys, or phone, especially when going through security.
How Does It Compare to Other Allpa Sizes?
Choosing between Cotopaxi’s Allpa sizes can come down to your packing habits. Here’s how the 28L stacks up:
| Feature | Allpa 28L | Allpa 35L | Allpa 42L |
| Capacity | 28L | 35L | 42L |
| Best Use | Weekend trips | 3–5 day travel | Gear-heavy, long trips |
| Weight | ~2.8 lbs | ~3.5 lbs | ~4.0 lbs |
| Carry-on Friendly | Always | Yes (most airlines) | Borderline |
If you’re packing for a short trip or you’re naturally a light packer, the 28L keeps you efficient without feeling limited.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Allpa 28L?
Like every travel bag, it shines when used in the right context. Here’s how it breaks down:
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight for easy carry
- Durable, weather-resistant materials
- Always carry-on compliant, even on small regional planes
- Structured interior for efficient packing
- Includes rain cover and lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Too small for longer trips or colder climates
- No water bottle pocket (common to all Allpa sizes)
- Hip belt not included (available separately)
Still, if you want a smart, compact pack that performs well in short-travel scenarios, it’s hard to find a better option in this size range.
What Are Users Saying About the Allpa 28L?
Across Cotopaxi’s website, REI, and Amazon, the Allpa 28L earns ratings between 4.7 and 5.0 stars.
Here’s what real users love:
- “Perfect for weekend getaways.”
- “Fits more than you expect thanks to the layout.”
- “Quality is outstanding, materials feel premium and durable.”
- “Super easy to carry in airports, trains, and city walks.”
The few common critiques involve space: it’s not made for longer trips or travelers who pack heavy. But for light packers, it delivers on every front.
Where Can You Buy the Allpa 28L and What’s the Price?
The Allpa 28L typically sells for $170 to $185 USD, depending on the version.
Where to buy:
- Cotopaxi.com (official store + Del Dia versions)
- REI
- Backcountry
- Amazon
It includes Cotopaxi’s Guaranteed for Good lifetime warranty and a built-in rain cover.
You can also choose the Del Dia edition, made with repurposed fabrics, no two bags look alike. It’s an eco-friendly option with a unique personality.
Is the Allpa 28L Worth It for Weekend Travel?
If you’re looking for a compact, structured, and travel-ready backpack that won’t slow you down, the Cotopaxi Allpa 28L is an excellent choice.
It’s ideal for weekend travelers, minimalists, digital nomads, and anyone who wants to pack light but travel far. You get the durability and thoughtful layout of Cotopaxi’s larger Allpa models, without the extra bulk.
For short getaways, overnight trips, or even as a secondary travel bag, the Allpa 28L is the kind of gear you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.
FAQs About the Allpa 28L Travel Pack
Is the Allpa 28L a carry-on?
Yes, it fits all airline carry-on size limits, including budget carriers.
How much can the Allpa 28L hold?
It fits enough for 2–3 days of minimalist travel.
Does it have a laptop compartment?
Yes, it includes a padded sleeve for up to 15-inch laptops.
Is the Allpa 28L waterproof?
It’s water-resistant and includes a rain cover for added protection.
Does it have a hip belt?
No, but it’s compatible with Cotopaxi’s optional hip belt.
What does it weigh?
It weighs approximately 2.8 pounds (1.27 kg).
Can I use it for everyday commuting?
Yes, it works well for light travel, commuting, and weekend escapes.
Where can I buy the Allpa 28L?
Available at Cotopaxi.com, REI, Amazon, and Backcountry.
Want to know how the Allpa 28L holds up for real weekend getaways?
Head over to the forum thread: Allpa 28L – Is It Enough for Your Short Trips?
Our blog breaks down its features, but travelers in the community weigh in with packing lists, space-saving hacks, and honest takes on what this compact pack can and can’t handle. Join the chat to see if it’s your perfect minimalist companion.