Which Osprey Backpack Bag is the BEST?

Here is an Osprey Backpack review with all my larger Osprey Packs. Osprey have a large selection of backpack bags and it's difficult to choose between them. In this Osprey pack review I show you a selection of the main features to hopefully make choosing the right backpack easier.
Osprey Packs vary a lot. This is to cater for different backpacking trips such as one night wild camps to month long backpacking adventures. Osprey uses different back systems to carry different loads as well as offering lots of different features.
The Osprey Backpacks in this review are:
Osprey Levity 60
Osprey Link: £220 tidd.ly/3BeJu74
Osprey Rook 65
Amazon Links: (£115 Green amzn.to/3eHZuXn , £133 Blue amzn.to/3qCuJWH , £150 Black amzn.to/3QBJELm )
Osprey Kestrel 68
Amazon Links: £147 in Black amzn.to/3df68Ek
Osprey Atmos 65
Osprey Link: £265 NEW VERSION tidd.ly/3QIikeg
Osprey Aether 60
Amazon Links: £187 NEW VERSION Blue amzn.to/3ePFAKj £220 Green amzn.to/3BfRzsb
Visit my new Amazon Shop! www.amazon.co.uk/shop/backpac...
I would highly recommend trying on a backpack first. Just like hiking boots, you need to make sure your backpacking bag is really comfy. Most of these have adjustability, but you still need to get the right size first and then fine tune it afterwards.
I say get the Osprey backpacking bag that suits your requirements. Personally, I take lots of backpacking gear with me plus my vlogging kit so I need a backpack that can take weight. If you mainly go summer camping with lightweight kit there is no need for the anti-gravity system. You’re better off with a lighter backpack.
The other osprey rucksack worthy of a mention is the Osprey Exos. I think it sits somewhere between the Levity and Kestrel. The latest version has hip pockets again so I think it is an improved design.
If you are into your hiking, backpacking and wild camping then please SUBSCRIBE ‪@BackpackingUK‬
Thanks, Andy.
#ospreypacks #backpacks #backpacking

[@wouterberend]

I worked at an outdoor shop for a while and as soon as I let the customer try the Osprey AG packs it was over for the competitors. It's by far the most comfortable backpacking system there is. Writing this comment I wonder why I didn't buy it for myself, but I settled on an Exos for the weight savings. Just saying you can't go wrong with an AG pack.

[@BackpackingUK]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@suhelavaneerten419]

I had this experience myself. I am changing my 15-year old 55:10L bag for a smaller, lighter and more comfortable pack. Since I had Lowe Alpine, i started fitting one of those. The weight that was put in felt quite impressive. Then I got the same in the Aura and I was actually unsure it could be the same weight.

[@shanebrowning8862]

Any regrets going w the Exos? I’m at the same crossroads myself…

[@musician445]

Very helpful to go in depth on those details and the actual differences that explains the cost disparity.

[@backpackingireland8624]

Love my Kestrel 48 . Have my gear list down now , fits into 48 . Great video atb Tony 🇮🇪🇮🇪👌

[@MysticalCoq]

Fantastic video mate, great breakdown - love the summary targeting needs/wants

[@BackpackingUK]

Cheers 👍

[@salsalvio821]

Great in-depth review. Thank you!

[@karenmoore1561]

A great review! Most of our packs are Osprey ranging from 18l for day pack and 66 for a camp. I am really small and the Osprey women's packs are the only ones where I can adjust the back height to fit comfortably. They are definitely worth the investment. We have a range of sizes in our house from the women and standard size range so whatever we are doing one of the packs will do the job!

[@BackpackingUK]

Thanks for sharing!

[@mrbigblaze88]

I am fortunate to have several osprey backpacks, and I really like this video . My atmos 65ag and aether plus 100 are fantastic! I highly recommend either of them. Cheers

[@BackpackingUK]

I was thinking of going even bigger for winter but just not sure I could carry it 😂

[@majesty1110]

Great video, just what i needed. Thank you!

[@opogdans]

Ive had the atmos for 5 years now and used it a lot, and it holds up so well!

[@BackpackingUK]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@suhelavaneerten419]

Thanks so much for this! 4 of these are on my list and even while i am looking for a smaller & lighter version (50L/ 12kg), this is very helpfull! Although I am sure it is also very personal and i ordered 4 to have the chance to try them out a bit before i make my choice :)

[@kerrymower1321]

Nice review. I love the Kestrel 48 for day hikes requiring a lot of equipment or clothing. I just got out of the backcountry where I was 4 days with my Aether AG 65. I can’t say enough good about the way it rides on my back and my bony hips. It is the only backpack I have ever owned that doesn’t bruise my waist and hips after many days of walking.

[@Legionnaire7777]

Im liking the exos 55 pro at the moment, nice review 👍🏻

[@TomMartens]

Great review! I've hiked-scrambled over 3500km with my Levity 60 and I can add here that it is super durable too. Very little wear for that amount of use, will definitly last another 1000-1500km. For a lightweight hiker like me it actually has plenty of features for 900gr, amazing longhike backpack, best in its category if you need a lightweight 60l backpack.

[@BackpackingUK]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Legionnaire7777]

I'm currently using the exos pro 55 and feel the same way it's durable and great for it use and so comfortable too.

[@vvs3796]

What maximum load it s comfortable at? Some say even 17 kg it handles well,others that over 12 is not so great..​@@Legionnaire7777

[@markhiggins3054]

So good brother - been wondering about their differences. Thank you

[@BackpackingUK]

The only other one worth mentioning is the Exos. That's great for lighter loads and has way more features than the Levity. 1.3kg.

[@higherlifts420]

I have a 20 inch torso and have a S/M Kestrel 48 and a L/XL Aether 65. Both in blue. Both bags are really really nice and comfortable. Definitely recommend trying all the bags and sizes on before buying. Thank you REI lol

[@perplexed1471]

Good video mate thanks!

[@BackpackingUK]

Cheers 👍

[@Mickoutdoors]

5 Osprey back packs are you a premiership footballer !!! 🤣🤣🤣 great vid Andy 👍👍👍

[@BackpackingUK]

😂😂😂

[@jimsagubigula7337]

Thank you so much for this video

[@Sturmer69]

the anti gravity system also causes a lot of osprey packs to squeek a lot...very annoying when you are in nature

[@MrGraemeb2022]

Totally agree regarding the Aether AG. I've just bought the 70 for the Coast to Coast. You buy once, you cry once. Then it's yours to have and to hold.

[@grahamscothern4319]

Hi Andy Really good review mate. I have ospray 48 I love it. But struggle when it comes to autumn winter. A love the look of atmos 65 but your making we sway toward the Aether 60 ! Now I’m stuck 🤔 Atb Graham

[@BackpackingUK]

I've used my Kestrel 48 with a dry bag on top or bottom carrying clothes or sleeping bag. It's not the perfect way of carrying but it saves buying a bigger pack. The AG packs are perfect for winter!

[@titanicicaproduction]

Hi Andy, great video as always, very informative indeed. Would it be possible for you to produce a video on Thermal Base layers as Autumn and winter are on the horizon? Thanks

[@BackpackingUK]

I'll see what I can do 👍

[@titanicicaproduction]

@@BackpackingUK thanks Andy. I'm thinking along the lines of energy saving at home in the winter months so I will wear thermals to keep warm, I hope others consider this option if they can't afford the high energy bills

[@mike_outdoors4918]

I can't speak for the others, as I have never used them, but I hiked the West Highland Way with a total 18 Kg using the Rook 65 and had no issues. I would however have liked there to be trekking pole loops. Cheers Andy 👍🙂

[@BackpackingUK]

Thanks for sharing!

[@BackpackingUK]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@kylew1358]

Just bought the Atmos AG 65 new version does anyone find the lip where the mesh and the fabric starts on the back panel rubs off the top of the hip bones. Might just be my body shape as I've got positioned and measure perfectly on the hips.

[@camperp195]

A medium atmos 65 on YOUR recommendation andy,and its the best pack ive had by miles 👍

[@BackpackingUK]

Great to here! I just don’t think you can beat the Anti-Gravity system.

[@Totochic]

Excellente vidéo ! J'ai parcouru 600 kilomètres en un mois avec le Kestrel 58 L. Il n'y a qu'une seule chose qui m'a vraiment dérangé, surtout vers la fin c'est la transpiration au niveau du dos 😵 Et grâce à votre analyse, je sais maintenant quel sac me prendre pour mes prochaines randonnées, merci !

[@jessewaller3435]

A great review! Just FYI, the Atmos AG does also come in a 50L version too :)

[@BackpackingUK]

Yes, I think the 50L came in this year.

[@srennielsen4545]

I have godt the 65 in deep blue, 100% Perfect condition. I would like to Trade it for a 50😁. (Denmark).

[@jasonlatham175]

Nice side by side comparison Andy. I’ve got the kestrel 48, and it fits my summer kit in, just. Going to be a squeeze for winter with a bigger sleeping bag and more warm kit. Wish I’d of gone for the 58 version in hindsight. Sub 10k base for winter kit so weight shouldn’t be an issue though. ATB

[@brentmac122]

I bought the Kestrel 48 and swapped it out for the 58 the day after. The 58 feels like the same exact size and weight and has a much more useful front opening. I recommend everyone get the 58 over the 48. You can get it just as compressed and small as the 48 and you have extra space if you need it.

[@craig3401]

@@brentmac122 I have the 58 it's a really good proper 3 season bag which will serve most people's needs if you're into ultralight then it's not a bag for you and maybe for winter it might be a squeeze for some

[@RYJAELL]

I have the aether and with my son in for there is plenty of kit! Hike up kinder scout with 20kg and it was a dream!!

[@BackpackingUK]

It really is that good isn’t it. It’s hard to get your head around the fact that a heavy backpack is more comfy but it’s true!

[@nfinnnn]

Great video! Super useful indeed. Any thoughts on the Osprey Archeon 70?

[@BackpackingUK]

The weight puts me off, 2.8kg!

[@lifetrail_hiking_mentoring]

Great video. Ultralight packs are for ultralight hikers, full-stoop, a different hiker than the rest. I've used an Aether for 10 years, including a 1000 km hike; it's a remarkable pack, durable, and so comfortable that when worn correctly, it's like you're wearing nothing, even with 20 kg. My only issue has been the max 23-inch torso, which is the longest you can get, I think, and I seem to be a little longer. If anyone has any experience in this area, please share. Can the Atmos really carry 20kg? I've read less elsewhere.

[@heboughtabike]

Just ordered a Rook 65 from Go Outdoors, with Scout leader discount it was less than £65 for the green version, for that money it was a no brainer. Looking to replace my 20 year old 65+15 Karrimor pack which has seen better days, plus the size of it encourages me to take more than I need.

[@BackpackingUK]

Bargain!

[@naturelover7409]

Which is the best osprey backpack for a 2 day trek ?

[@lamineaim5562]

nice presentation I was hoping if you had showed each one individually rather than one close to each one other than that it's amazing! also can I ask for a favor in the future can you do a presentation about Gregory katmai 65 I bought it not long ago and it's absolutely amazing backpack

[@BackpackingUK]

I'll check it out!

[@lamineaim5562]

@@BackpackingUK I've had the zulu 65 but I've upgraded to the katmai 65 which has the Freefloat 360 technology I would be so happy if you make a presentation about it and thank you so much for your efforts wish you all the best

[@karenversluys8197]

Thank you for your detailed review. I purchased the ATMOS AG 50 for my son to start his DofE, I thought it would be a good investment and I am a big osprey fan. ;-) I have a question about the waterproof cover. Should the AG 50 have come with a detachable waterproof cover inside the base compartment?

[@antduke2361]

Yes that model does come with one

[@craig3401]

Well imo I think that ospreys are the best packs I've got 5 from the talon 11,26,44 and kestrel 58,68 there all airscape and yes I do get a sweaty back but I sweat a lot so even airspeed wouldn't solve that.i like the build quality and the features especially the stow on the go as for the weight carrying even my winter weight is only about 15kg so the kestrel 68 does just fine I don't have a problem with the padding.my spring autumn weight is about 10kg so my 58 takes that summer is about 7.5 so the talon 44 takes that the 2 smaller packs are for day walks.but why have so many packs of the same size?

[@BackpackingUK]

I tend to take a lot of gear with me hence requiring a larger backpack. BPUK is a review channel so I've got to try lots of gear (that's my excuse anyway!).

[@bcole96024]

Can you check the Atmos 65?

[@497derek]

I find the Farpoint 70l the perfect rucksack ( and you can attach a day pack if required

[@BackpackingUK]

If you watch my wild camp videos, Brian has a Farpoint 70. He loves it!

[@quasii7]

You can no longer buy the Aether AG version. What do you think about the airscape system on this? Very good video by the way, thanks a lot!

[@higherlifts420]

You should try to go try them on side by side. I went to rei a couple different days to try on bags and make sure I get the most comfortable ones. I loved the Aether! Even more so than the Atmos AG. I eventually left with a kestrel 48 for day/small trips and the Aether 65 for heavy overnight trips. Both are very comfortable bags for my body

[@bartklingele4483]

hello, thanks for the review :) i can't find the aether AG, on your link it is the aether (without AG) and i can't find the aether ag in Belgium ? only the atmos AG ? Do you know about this difference ?

[@BackpackingUK]

The new Aether has the Airscape backpanel which is still really comfy and fits close to your back.

[@bartklingele4483]

@@BackpackingUKthanks…I ordered the atmos… based on you inspiration and enthousiasm in the video ….curious about the Anti gravity system…thanks for your video, my first idea was the kestrel 65, but with your inspiration I changed 👍👌😀

[@stonew1927]

Hi Andy, I'm wondering if you've ever checked out the Osprey Farpoint 55L Trek. Would love to know what your thoughts are on it especially in comparison to the others you mention here....

[@BackpackingUK]

My mate uses the Farpoint 70, he goes on week-long backpacking trips. I'll give it a review next year but I know he really rates it.

[@stonew1927]

@@BackpackingUK Sorry, I'm from the States. By "rates it" do you mean likes, or hates?

[@BackpackingUK]

@@stonew1927 Likes!

[@creglia]

How well do the pads on the hips (Atmos) conform to your body? I tried out the bag in store and they dig into my hips a bit

[@BackpackingUK]

Yes, they sort of do that. I prefer to say they hug your body! The hip pads / belt really do take the weight off the pack off your shoulders. It feels odd when unladen but makes sense when fully loaded 👍

[@creglia]

@@BackpackingUK excellent. Thank you for the reply and great content. Happy trails!

[@mattglyndwr8622]

I have an atmos, aether and kestrel 68 and I disagree. On long distances carrying 13kg for a week the kestrel which is my latest well out performs the other 2. I think anti gravity is over kill. The extra weight isn't worth it. As for the sweating? I get that on all of my rucksacks including lowe alpine. For me the kestrel is just the most comfortable and its close proximity to the body helps when I'm on steeper ground which in Wales is a lot!

[@BackpackingUK]

Fair enough, everyone’s built differently, but for me the shoulder straps on the Kestrel aren’t good enough for carrying 15kg plus over long distances.

[@mattglyndwr8622]

@@BackpackingUK im quite small build so maybe that's reason plus I've always been used to military rucksacks which are pretty uncomfortable lol

[@theasiamtmgroup]

How about the UNLTD AG? The new flagship model, have you tried that one yet? It's probably the most expensive one in the world too.

[@BackpackingUK]

Check out my other videos 👍

[@antduke2361]

I have to say after trying a few packs out from different manufacturers Big Agnes, Deuter Sierra Designs, I have found they are better in regard to what modem users need and weight too. What I have yet to find is the customer service of Osprey, they have replied to me within 48 hours every time I needed a repair or a part for a pack or general advice on models. Gregory have been by far the worst, good luck with them if you need a warranty ! If only Osprey could make a few better models like a top loader roll top ultralight and a load hauling pack that is minimal with a reasonable weight.

[@BackpackingUK]

The Exos Pro has good reviews and that’s sub-1kg with proper features unlike some of the dcf bin bag ultralight ones.

[@Strychninex]

One thing to remember is that whilst the Anti-Gravity system is amazing, it cannot carry heavier loadouts comfortably (usually tops out ~13kgs). You will start to feel it after that! There are better Osprey options if you are carrying heavier loadouts. Majority of differences between the packs (apart from the Levity, as it's focused on weight saving) are minor in my opinion (I'm still trying to work out why you have so many 60 litre packs!). Rook is an entry level pack, working up to the Aether at the higher end of features. Would have loved to have seen the Exos in there as I believe that's probably the best middle of the road pack in terms of what you get for what you pay. Especially since the 2022 version has hip pockets back!

[@BackpackingUK]

I didn't buy the old Exos because of the lack of hip pockets and because the Levity is much lighter. However, the 2022 Exos is back in the game! I hope to own one soon. Personally, as for the AG System, I think you're wrong there, it's built for big heavy loads and I've comfortably done big distances with big weight in mine. I suppose everyone's built differently though.

[@carladams837]

Exos is brilliant I have the new Version . And the levity I also have great long distance backpacks . I did have the atmos 65 but I did find this bag heavy and to big for long distance hiking. It started to make squeaky noises when walking 😵‍💫

[@Strychninex]

@@BackpackingUK I respectfully would have to disagree - from my own testing and multiple other reviews, it's almost agreed that the other Osprey support designs carry heavier loads better. It's also why the AG system isn't available on the higher capacity bags. That's not to say it's not great - it is! (I prefer using it if I can). I also have both the new UNLTD bags, the AG 64 and the AirScape 68 and can confirm the AirScape carries heavier loads better (closer to the body and more comfortably).

[@mingoncheung6003]

How do you put a locker on the osprey rook 65?

[@BackpackingUK]

Locker?

[@lukeclayton-holland1564]

Can the kestrel attach the daylight travel?

[@BackpackingUK]

Not as far as I’m aware but not 100% certain.

[@martyn-jq3cc]

Atmos does come in a 50l too Andy

[@BackpackingUK]

Yes, the new version does!

[@chrish3305]

@@BackpackingUK and the ‘old’. They’ve done an Atmos 50 for at least 5 years. I have the 50 in the same style you have the 65. I’ve had the 65 in that style too but sold it on. The old old generation with the old logo had a 50 as well

[@AdamosFF]

They don't make Atmos AG 50l anymore?

[@BackpackingUK]

They do for 2022!

[@mihodo8160]

How would you rank the Osprey Exos 58, in comparison to these five ones?

[@BackpackingUK]

The Exos is far better than the Levity is almost every way. It’s really comfy for lighter weights. Personally, I wouldn’t want 15kg in it! For up to 12kg all-in it’s a cracking backpack. I’ve got the Exos 48.

[@mihodo8160]

@@BackpackingUK Thank you!

[@mihodo8160]

@@BackpackingUK I'm currently deciding on an Osprey backpack for a 5-week trip in Japan from July to August with a friend. We're planning to do a mix of everything, visit cities, hotspots and go hike Mt. Fuji and around nature parks. I'm currently stuck deciding between the Aether 65 or the Rook 65. Partly because it's gonna be hot and humid and I expect to drag the backpack around quite a lot. I also probably don't want it to weigh too much... Which one would you recommend?

[@derekmale1365]

Can I ask why are you selling the eather?

[@BackpackingUK]

It’s a large and I need a medium. I’ve used it but it just wasn’t sitting on my hips properly.

[@lukeclayton-holland1564]

I’m 6.1 which size do you recommend?

[@BackpackingUK]

L/XL 👍

[@lukeclayton-holland1564]

@@BackpackingUK thank you man

[@gixxer4646]

Atmos AG comes in 50L as well.

[@BackpackingUK]

Yes, I think that's new for 2022. This model only came in 65L.

[@gixxer4646]

@@BackpackingUK i have the 2018 version of atmos 50l, from what i saw its the same as Exos, both come in different size. The new 2022 50l and 65l have a new colour, more to blue and maybe a different material, as the old ones both are grey. Also not sure if old version of 65l its the same as '22, the top bag cant be taken down and use without it, but on 50l you can take it out the same as Exos version and use it with the top cover, that is integrated under the top bag.

[@hubert12125]

Had ATmos 65 before and it was awful,Exos 58 is my choice and probably the best backpack I ever used

[@BackpackingUK]

Awful? Really?!?! How?

[@hubert12125]

@@BackpackingUK Side pockets were restricting my hand movement,when it was loaded above 15kg it was uncomfortable to wear also top compartment was pushing my head.It was brilliant backpack when it was empty but not during the use.Had atmos 35&50 and exos 58 after and those were brilliant

[@user-kx9wj2oy2i]

why only osprey? i dont know why somebody still buys osprey without AG system

[@war3840]

Guess im old. Like the volt

[@BackpackingUK]

They’ve relaunched the Volt, I’ve got one! (Since the video was made)

[@antduke2361]

Exos all the way for me

[@BackpackingUK]

It's definitely popular with those who travel light.

[@marshalfresco1846]

100% they do that Atmos in 50L in that model. I've got one and I've had it since 2020.

[@BackpackingUK]

Didn’t know that, thanks for letting me know 👍

[@UCcdTp7XpCkVLkaRCsDcifFg]

middle

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

"Which Osprey Backpack Bag is the BEST?" A Mystery Ranch! 😆

[@user-wr9fo6dw8d]

Spasibo

[@sdfaasf7574]

no one. Macgregory.

[@BackpackingUK]

😂

[@monidemierda]

hi!! what would you recommend me?? i hike in summer & winter -Osprey Tempest 40w -Osprey Kestrel 38 -Osprey Sirrus 36 thank you so much!!