I used this backpack as my carry-on for a two-week trip to Europe and it was impressive. I needed to carry a large camera--which had its own padded bag--and I brought a Microsoft Surface (laptop/tablet). This bag has a laptop compartment on the back, i.e., posterior if you're speaking anatomically. I was most concerned about the placement of this laptop sleeve/compartment as other reviewers have mentioned. My concern was mainly about creating a bend-type stress on the laptop. Since this bag/backpack is soft, i.e., doesn't have a rigid shell or internal frame I wondered if I stuffed it full of things it might cause stress on my laptop and break it. That concern was unfounded and even though I did stuff this bag full there was no problem with stress on my laptop. It's difficult to describe why, but it wasn't an issue.
Since I'm on the short side, I bought the small version of this Farpoint, which is actually 38 liters. That size seemed perfect for my 5'8" frame.
Here's what I loved:
1) Excellent workmanship with tough materials. It's built very well and inspires confidence. Materials are first-class and zippers are tough and precise.
2) Extremely comfortable. With two usable "modes" (backpack or bag), there is no compromise with it being a backpack. It's fully outfitted with stabilizer straps and a chest strap. When loaded it's extremely usable as a backpack.
3) Super easy to convert between the two "modes." It literally takes about 10 seconds to go from bag to backpack and vice versa.
4) Super comfortable side handle and top handle when using it in bag mode.
5) Practical Design. As a bag, it opens like a typical clamshell travel bag--providing easy access if you need to open it all the way. It also has compression straps if you don't need all the space.
6) Great price compared to other backpack/bags like this. I learned through my research that this type of solution is part of its own genre. There is an entire segment of the travel industry producing these types of backpack/bags. Frankly, most look overpriced and not as practical--although some have a sleeker look and look less like a backpack.
7) True carry-on size for most airlines. Will fit in overhead bins.
Insignificant Issue:
1) The "Volcanic Grey" color is actually more like a deep green. Certainly greener than I expected or wanted. But it's such a great solution overall I can't really complain. I still love it.
Frankly, this experience opens my eyes to the Osprey brand. I'm assuming this is representative of all their products and, if so, this is a great company with great products.
***Note: I over-packed for my Europe trip and also had a spinner bag that I checked for my flights. I believe that with careful packing and leaving half my stuff home (stuff I never used), I could have made this my main bag--taking perhaps one other separate, smaller camera bag for my camera.***
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 23.15 x 14.96 x 5.43 inches |
|---|---|
| Package Weight | 1.51 Kilograms |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 9 x 14 x 21 inches |
| Item Weight | 3 Pounds |
| Brand Name | Osprey |
| Model Name | Farpoint 40 |
| Color | Volcanic Grey |
| Material | Nylon,Ripstop |
| Suggested Users | unisex-adult |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Manufacturer | Osprey |
| Part Number | 10000294 |
| Model Year | 2018 |
| Style | Farpoint 40 |
| Included Components | Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack |
| Size | Small/Medium |
| Sport Type | Hiking |
| Age Range Description | Adult |
| Units | 1 Count |
| Capacity Total | 40 Liters |
