When it comes to finding the perfect travel backpack, the Osprey Farpoint 40 travel backpack consistently tops the list for adventurers, digital nomads, and frequent flyers alike. In this detailed Osprey Farpoint 40 review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this backpack a standout choice for travelers who value comfort, durability, and versatility. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a cross-country trek, or a long-term backpacking adventure, the Farpoint 40 is designed to meet your needs while fitting seamlessly into overhead compartments—making it a favorite for carry-on enthusiasts. But is it really worth the hype? In this article, we’ll explore its features, pros, and cons, and help you decide if this backpack is the right fit for your travel style.
The Osprey Farpoint 40 isn’t just another travel backpack; it’s a carefully engineered piece of gear that combines practicality with comfort. From its adjustable harness system to its lightweight yet durable construction, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to enhance your travel experience. In this review of the Farpoint 40, we’ll break down its key features, including its 40-liter capacity, organizational compartments, and laptop sleeve, while also addressing some common concerns like its hip belt padding and limited space for extended trips. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether this backpack lives up to its reputation as one of the best travel backpacks on the market.
Osprey Farpoint 40 review
So, if you’re on the hunt for a reliable, carry-on-friendly backpack that can keep up with your adventures, keep reading. This Osprey Farpoint 40 review will provide all the insights you need to make an informed decision—and maybe even inspire your next trip! Don’t miss out on the full breakdown; your perfect travel companion could be just a scroll away.
| Quick Specifications: |
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| Capacity: 40 liters Dimensions: 15″D x 24″W x 4″H Weight: 3.5 pounds Material: Polyester exterior, nylon lining Design: Rectangular, soft-shell laptop backpack Color: Muted Space Blue Straps: Adjustable harness and hip belt (stowable) Pockets: 3 pockets (large front slip pocket, external zip pocket for hygiene items) Compatibility: Fits devices up to 16 inches Water Resistance: Water-resistant Closure: Zipper Handles: Padded top and side handles Gear Attachment: External loops for additional gear |
| Advantages: | Disadvantages: |
|---|---|
| Carry-On Friendly: Perfect size for airline carry-on requirements. Adjustable Fit: Harness and hip belt adjust for personalized comfort. Lightweight: Weighs only 3.5 pounds, reducing travel load. Durable: Made of high-quality polyester and nylon materials. Versatile: Suitable for urban travel, hiking, and sports. Organized: Multiple pockets for efficient storage. Stowable Straps: Harness and hip belt stow away for easy checking. Water-Resistant: Protects belongings from light rain or spills. | Limited Space: 40 liters may not suffice for extended trips. Hip Belt Padding: Could be more padded for heavy loads. Laptop Sleeve Placement: Some users find it less accessible. Hand Wash Only: Requires careful cleaning, not machine washable. No Dedicated Shoe Compartment: Limited organization for bulkier items. |
Osprey Farpoint 40 video Review: An Excellent Carry-On Backpack
Full Osprey Farpoint 40 Review
Travel Far and Light with the Farpoint Family
The Osprey Farpoint Family is engineered for travelers who demand versatility, durability, and comfort in a single pack. Designed to keep up with fast-paced globetrotters, these backpacks blend lightweight construction with technical features borrowed from Osprey’s high-performance hiking packs. The Farpoint 40, in particular, is a standout model that balances serious backpacking functionality—like adjustable torso fits, load-bearing LightWire frames, and breathable harness systems—with practical travel-friendly details. Whether you’re navigating crowded airports, trekking through cities, or hitting remote trails, this pack ensures your gear stays organized, secure, and easy to access. With rugged compression straps and optimized internal organization, it adapts seamlessly to both minimalist and fully-loaded travel styles.
1. Key Travel Features
The Farpoint Family is specifically designed with the modern traveler in mind, offering a blend of backpacking functionality and travel convenience. These packs aim to make your journey seamless and enjoyable, whether you’re navigating bustling city streets or exploring remote landscapes.
Carry-on Size:
One of the most significant advantages of the Farpoint Family is their carry-on compatibility. This feature allows you to bypass baggage claim, saving valuable time and reducing the risk of lost luggage. However, it’s crucial to remember that carry-on size regulations can vary between airlines. Therefore, it is always advisable to check the specific rules and restrictions of your chosen airline before traveling. This ensures a smooth boarding process and avoids any unexpected complications at the airport. Many travelers find this a key aspect when reading an osprey farpoint 40 review, as it directly impacts travel efficiency.
Large Panel Zip Access to Main Compartment:
Packing and unpacking can often be a cumbersome task, but the Farpoint Family simplifies this with its large panel zip access to the main compartment. This design allows you to open the backpack like a suitcase, providing unobstructed access to all your belongings. This wide opening makes it easy to organise your gear, find what you need quickly, and efficiently pack everything back up. It’s a feature that significantly enhances the overall travel experience, especially when you need to access items in a hurry.
Lockable Sliders on Main Compartment Zipper:
Security is a paramount concern for travelers, and the Farpoint Family addresses this with lockable sliders on the main compartment zipper. These sliders allow you to attach a small padlock, providing an extra layer of protection against theft. This simple yet effective feature can offer peace of mind, especially when you’re in crowded areas or when you need to leave your bag unattended for short periods. While not a foolproof solution, it acts as a deterrent and can help keep your belongings safe.
2. Comfort and Adjustability
Despite their lightweight design, the Farpoint Family doesn’t compromise on comfort, incorporating features typically found in more technical backpacking packs.
Adjustable Torso Fit:
Achieving a comfortable carry is essential, especially on long journeys. The Farpoint Family offers an adjustable torso fit, allowing you to customise the backpack to your specific body length. This adjustability ensures that the weight of the pack is distributed evenly across your shoulders and hips, reducing strain and fatigue. By properly adjusting the torso length, you can optimise the load transfer to the hipbelt, which should bear the majority of the weight. This feature is often highlighted in an osprey farpoint 40 review as a significant comfort enhancer.
Load-Lifting LightWire Frame:
The inclusion of a load-lifting LightWire frame provides crucial structural support to the Farpoint Family backpacks. This lightweight frame helps to transfer the weight of your load from your shoulders to your hips, making heavier loads more manageable and comfortable to carry. The frame also helps to maintain the shape of the pack, preventing it from collapsing and ensuring that the weight is distributed effectively.
Breathable Harness and Hipbelt:
Comfort is further enhanced by the breathable harness and hipbelt featured in the Farpoint Family. These components are designed with ventilated materials that promote airflow, helping to keep you cool and dry even during strenuous activity or in warm climates. The padded harness straps and hipbelt also provide cushioning and support, ensuring a comfortable carry even when the pack is fully loaded.
3. Practical Travel Functionality
Beyond comfort and security, the Farpoint Family incorporates several features designed to enhance the practicality of travel.
Stowaway Backpanel, Harness and Hipbelt:
A unique and highly practical feature of the Farpoint Family is the stowaway backpanel, harness, and hipbelt. This allows you to zip away the shoulder straps and hipbelt, creating a sleek and luggage-like profile. This is particularly useful when you need to check the backpack as luggage or when you want to prevent the straps from getting snagged or damaged during transit. When you need to carry the pack again, the straps and hipbelt can be quickly and easily deployed.
Padded Top and Side Handles:
For situations where you can’t or don’t want to carry the backpack on your back, the Farpoint Family is equipped with padded top and side handles. These handles provide comfortable and convenient carrying options, similar to a duffel bag. This is particularly useful when lifting the pack into overhead compartments, carrying it through crowded areas, or simply moving it short distances.
Dual Front Compression Straps:
Efficient packing often involves compressing your belongings to save space and prevent them from shifting during travel. The Farpoint Family features dual front compression straps that allow you to cinch down the contents of the backpack, making it more compact and stable. These straps also help to secure external items that you might want to attach to the front of the pack.
4. Organisation and Accessibility
Staying organised while traveling is crucial for a stress-free experience, and the Farpoint Family offers several features to help you keep your belongings in order.
Internal Organisation:
The internal organisation of the Farpoint Family has been specifically optimised for travel purposes. This often includes features like zippered mesh pockets, dividers, and other compartments designed to help you separate and organise your clothes, toiletries, and other essentials. This thoughtful organisation makes it easier to find what you need quickly and keeps your belongings neatly arranged throughout your journey.
Two Internal Compression Straps:
Similar to the external compression straps, the two internal compression straps within the main compartment help to secure your contents and prevent them from shifting during transit. These straps can be particularly useful for keeping folded clothes neat and maximising the available space inside the backpack.
Internal Front Flap Zippered Mesh Pocket:
The internal front flap of the Farpoint Family often features a zippered mesh pocket. This pocket provides a convenient and easily accessible storage space for smaller items that you might need to access frequently, such as documents, travel adapters, or small accessories. The mesh material allows you to see the contents of the pocket without having to open it.
External Zip Toiletry Pocket:
Keeping your toiletries separate and easily accessible is important for hygiene and convenience. The Farpoint Family includes an external zip toiletry pocket, allowing you to store your essential toiletries in a dedicated compartment. This helps to prevent spills from contaminating other items in your main compartment and makes it easy to grab your toiletries when you need them.
Large Front Shove-It Pocket:
The large front shove-it pocket is a versatile external storage option. This open-top pocket with elasticated or adjustable straps is ideal for stashing items that you need quick access to, such as a jacket, a travel guide, or even a pair of shoes. It provides a convenient way to carry items that might not fit inside the main compartment or that you want to keep separate.
Quick Access Zippered 16″ Laptop and Tablet Sleeve:
In today’s digital age, many travelers carry laptops and tablets. The Farpoint Family includes a dedicated, quick-access zippered sleeve designed to hold up to a 16″ laptop and a tablet. This sleeve is often padded to provide extra protection for your valuable electronics and is located in an easily accessible area, making it convenient to remove your devices for security checks at airports.
External Gear Attachment Loops:
For travelers who need to carry additional gear externally, the Farpoint Family is equipped with external gear attachment loops. These loops can be used to attach items like trekking poles, water bottles, or other accessories using straps or carabiners. This provides added versatility and allows you to carry items that might not fit inside the backpack.
Compatible with Farpoint/Fairview Daypack:
The Farpoint Family is often designed to be compatible with a dedicated daypack, such as the Farpoint Daypack or Fairview Daypack (the women’s specific version). This compatibility usually involves a system that allows you to attach the daypack to the main backpack, either by clipping it onto the shoulder straps or by zipping it onto the front. This is a highly convenient feature for travelers who want a smaller bag for day trips and excursions while having a larger pack for their main luggage.
Who Is It For?
The Osprey Farpoint 40 isn’t a one-size-fits-all backpack, but it’s a near-perfect match for three types of travelers:
- Frequent Travelers Who Prefer Carry-On Luggage
If you’re tired of waiting at baggage claim or paying extra fees, the Farpoint 40’s carry-on-friendly design (15″D x 24″W x 4″H) is a game-changer. Its 40-liter capacity adheres to most airline size restrictions, letting you breeze through airports with everything you need. The stowable harness and streamlined profile make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, whether you’re sprinting to a gate or squeezing onto a train. - Minimalist Packers
This pack rewards those who travel light. The internal compression straps and optimized compartments force you to prioritize essentials without sacrificing organization. If you’re the type to pack a capsule wardrobe, a compact toiletry kit, and a single pair of versatile shoes, the Farpoint 40 will feel like a tailored fit. - Adventurers Needing Versatility
From city breaks to weekend hikes, this backpack transitions seamlessly. The adjustable torso fit and breathable harness provide hiking-grade comfort, while the lockable zippers and sleek design keep it urban-ready. It’s ideal for travelers who might spend a morning in a café, an afternoon on a trail, and an evening on a overnight bus—all in the same day.
As highlighted in many an Osprey Farpoint 40 review, this pack shines for those who value efficiency and adaptability over bulk.
Comparison with Competitors
How does the Farpoint 40 stack up against popular alternatives like the Patagonia Black Hole 40L and Tortuga Setout 45L? Let’s break it down:
Patagonia Black Hole 40L
- Pros:
- Superior weather resistance (fully waterproof TPU laminate).
- Bold, modern aesthetics with reflective details.
- Roomy main compartment with minimal internal organization.
- Cons:
- No adjustable torso or hip belt—less comfortable for heavy loads.
- Straps don’t stow away, making it awkward to check.
Farpoint 40’s Edge: The Osprey’s adjustable harness and hip belt offer better weight distribution for long hauls. Its stowable straps and laptop sleeve placement also make it more versatile for mixed-use travel.
Tortuga Setout 45L
- Pros:
- Larger capacity (45L) with clamshell opening.
- More organizational pockets, including a dedicated shoe compartment.
- Padded hip belt and sternum strap for comfort.
- Cons:
- Heavier (4.2 lbs vs. Farpoint’s 3.5 lbs).
- Bulkier design struggles with strict carry-on limits.
Farpoint 40’s Edge: Osprey’s pack wins on weight and agility. The LightWire frame and breathable back panel make it more comfortable for active travelers, while its compression straps slim it down for day trips.
What Makes the Farpoint 40 Stand Out?
- Technical DNA: Borrows features from Osprey’s hiking packs (e.g., adjustable torso, load-bearing frame).
- Airline Compliance: Fits overhead bins more reliably than bulkier competitors.
- Warranty: Osprey’s lifetime guarantee (vs. Patagonia’s Ironclad Guarantee and Tortuga’s 10-year warranty).
While the Tortuga suits over-packers and the Patagonia appeals to urban minimalists, the Farpoint 40 strikes a unique balance. As noted in our Osprey Farpoint 40 review, it’s the best choice for travelers who refuse to choose between adventure-ready functionality and urban practicality.
Whether you’re a carry-on devotee, a minimalist, or a hybrid adventurer, the Farpoint 40’s thoughtful design and rugged versatility make it a standout—even in a crowded field of competitors.
User Experience and Testimonials
Hearing from real users can provide valuable insights into the practical aspects of using the Farpoint Family backpacks. Many travelers who have shared their experiences often praise the comfort and versatility of these packs. One common sentiment echoed in numerous osprey farpoint 40 review forums is the excellent weight distribution provided by the LightWire frame and adjustable torso.
For instance, Sarah, a frequent traveler, mentioned, “I’ve used my Farpoint 40 on several international trips, and even when it’s fully packed, it feels surprisingly comfortable on my back. The ability to adjust the torso length made a huge difference for me.
” Another user, Mark, highlighted the convenience of the stowaway straps, stating, “The stowaway feature is brilliant. It makes the bag look much more streamlined when I need to check it in, and I don’t have to worry about the straps getting caught on anything.”
These firsthand accounts underscore the thoughtful design and practical benefits that users experience in real-world travel scenarios. The combination of backpacking comfort and travel-specific features seems to resonate well with globetrotters.
Tips for Packing the Osprey Farpoint 40
Maximizing space and staying organized are key to efficient travel, especially with a carry-on-sized backpack like the Farpoint 40. Here are some tips to help you pack smarter:
- Roll Your Clothes: Instead of folding, try rolling your clothes tightly. This method often saves space and helps to minimise wrinkles.
- Use Packing Cubes: Investing in packing cubes can be a game-changer for organisation. They help to compartmentalise your belongings, making it easier to find what you need and compress your clothes further.
- Utilise Every Space: Don’t let any space go to waste. Stuff socks and underwear inside shoes, and use smaller pouches for accessories.
- Heaviest Items at the Bottom (Close to Your Back): When packing, place heavier items closer to your back and towards the bottom of the pack. This helps to maintain a balanced weight distribution and makes the backpack more comfortable to carry.
- Essential Items for Different Trip Types:
- City Breaks: Comfortable walking shoes, versatile clothing layers, a small crossbody bag for essentials, travel adapter, and a reusable water bottle.
- Beach Getaways: Swimwear, lightweight and quick-drying clothing, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, flip-flops, and a beach towel.
- Hiking/Adventure Trips: Moisture-wicking clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, a headlamp, a basic first-aid kit, and a hydration reservoir or water bottles.
- Leave Some Room: Avoid overpacking. It’s always a good idea to leave a little extra space for souvenirs or unexpected purchases during your trip. Considering these packing strategies often comes up when someone is doing their own osprey farpoint 40 review research.
Final Verdict
The Osprey Farpoint Family, particularly the Farpoint 40, stands out as a highly versatile and well-designed travel backpack. Its strengths lie in its comfortable carry system, featuring an adjustable torso, load-lifting frame, and breathable harness and hipbelt, which are often praised by users. The practical travel features, such as the large panel zip access, lockable zippers, stowaway straps, and dedicated laptop sleeve, further enhance its appeal to globetrotters. The internal organisation is well-thought-out, making it easy to pack and access your belongings efficiently.
However, potential weaknesses could include the fact that, while carry-on compliant for many airlines, it might be too large for stricter regulations. Additionally, some users might find the front shove-it pocket lacking secure closure for very small or valuable items.
Rating/Recommendation: Overall, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a durable, comfortable, and feature-rich backpack that bridges the gap between backpacking and luggage. Based on its thoughtful design and positive user feedback, it receives a strong recommendation.
Worth the Investment: Yes, for those who travel frequently and value comfort, organization, and durability in their luggage, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is definitely worth the investment. Its robust construction and versatile features are likely to serve you well on numerous adventures.
Osprey Farpoint 40 condition during different stages of use
Here’s a detailed explanation of the usage timeline for the Osprey Farpoint backpack, comparing initial and previous versions:
Initial Usage
Upon initial inspection, the current version of the Osprey Farpoint presents itself as a well-constructed and aesthetically pleasing travel companion. The materials used in its construction feel durable to the touch, suggesting a robust build capable of withstanding the rigors of travel. The sleek design adds to its appeal, making it a bag you’d be happy to carry. The harness system, comprising shoulder straps and a hipbelt, is notably adjustable, allowing users to customise the fit for optimal comfort. The ample padding in these areas further contributes to a comfortable carrying experience, even when the pack is loaded.
However, an observation made during this initial phase is that the internal organisation might be somewhat limited. While functional, there isn’t an abundance of specialised pockets or compartments. This is a point that the reviewers are keen to see how it has evolved from the previous iteration of the Farpoint. Reflecting on the previous version’s initial usage, a significant advantage noted was its readiness for immediate use. Unlike some bags that might require a break-in period, the previous Farpoint felt comfortable and functional right out of the box, a characteristic often appreciated by travelers eager to embark on their journeys. This immediate usability is a positive aspect that many look for when reading an osprey farpoint 40 review.
2 Weeks of Use
After two weeks of putting the current Osprey Farpoint through its paces, the initial positive impressions largely hold true. Comfort remains a standout feature, with users reporting no issues even on both short day trips and longer travel stretches with the pack. The adjustable harness system continues to perform well, distributing weight effectively and preventing discomfort. Furthermore, the materials have demonstrated their durability, showing no signs of wear or tear despite regular use. Another positive aspect observed during this period is the bag’s ability to handle water.
While not entirely waterproof, it offers good resistance to light rain, providing a degree of protection for the contents. However, the reviewers wisely advise seeking cover in the event of a significant downpour to ensure the contents remain dry. Comparing this to the previous version after the same period of use, there were no new issues or significant changes to report. The previous version continued to perform as expected, maintaining its initial comfort and durability, reinforcing its reliability as a travel pack. This consistent performance is often a key factor highlighted in any comprehensive osprey farpoint 40 review.
3 Months of Use
After three months of consistent use, the current version of the Osprey Farpoint continues to impress with its excellent condition. The materials still appear to be holding up well, with no significant signs of wear or damage reported. This speaks to the quality of the construction and the durability of the materials used. In contrast, the review of the previous version at this three-month mark specifically highlights the comfort of the bag. Once the straps are adjusted to the perfect fit, the previous version was noted to be incredibly comfortable, even when packed to its full capacity. Furthermore, despite three months of regular use, the previous version still looked as good as new, indicating the longevity and resilience of its construction.
6 Months of Use
At the six-month mark, the current version of the Osprey Farpoint is reported to be in good condition. While no specific details are provided about any potential wear and tear, the “good” rating suggests that it has held up well to regular use over this period. Shifting focus to the previous version after six months, the reviewers noted a growing sense of confidence in the bag’s robustness. They felt more comfortable “throwing this bag around now,” indicating a level of trust in its durability. Importantly, despite this more casual handling, there were still no significant signs of wear and tear on the previous version at this stage.
9 Months of Use
After nine months of use, the current version of the Osprey Farpoint is described as being in “fine” condition. This suggests that some minor wear and tear might have started to appear, although the bag remains functional. In comparison, the nine-month update for the previous version highlights a specific issue with the S/M size of the bag. Some small rips were observed in the corner of the bag. The reviewers attribute this damage to the bag having been checked into the hold of several flights, suggesting that this type of handling might be more likely to cause wear and tear compared to carrying it on.
1 Year of Use
Reaching the one-year mark, the current version of the Osprey Farpoint remains in “fine” condition, similar to the nine-month report. This indicates that while it has withstood a year of use, some signs of wear might be present. Looking at the previous version after a full year of travel, the report is overwhelmingly positive.
This particular bag had been used across different countries, a testament to its durability and reliability. Despite this extensive travel, all the buckles and zips were still functioning as if they were brand new, highlighting the quality of the components used in its construction.
Conclusion for Osprey Farpoint 40 Review
In conclusion, the Osprey Farpoint 40 emerges as a top contender in the realm of travel backpacks, skillfully blending the supportive features of a backpacking pack with the practicalities demanded by modern travel. This detailed osprey farpoint 40 review has highlighted its numerous strengths, from the adjustable torso and load-lifting frame that ensure comfortable carrying, even when fully loaded, to the intelligently designed internal organisation that simplifies packing and access to belongings.
The carry-on compatibility, a crucial factor for many travelers, adds significant convenience, allowing for quicker airport transits and eliminating the worry of lost luggage, though it’s always wise to verify specific airline regulations. The thoughtful inclusion of lockable zippers, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and the versatile stowaway harness system further underscores Osprey’s commitment to creating a user-friendly and secure travel companion. While minor drawbacks, such as potential size constraints for certain airlines or the open nature of the shove-it pocket, exist, they are largely outweighed by the backpack’s overall functionality and durability.
The overwhelmingly positive user experiences and testimonials further solidify its reputation as a reliable and comfortable travel solution. For individuals who prioritize comfort, organisation, and robust construction in their travel gear, the Osprey Farpoint 40 stands out as a worthwhile investment that promises to enhance countless journeys. Its thoughtful design and durable build ensure it can withstand the rigors of travel, making it a dependable companion for both short getaways and extended adventures.
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