Osprey Exos 48 vs Bridger 45 vs Coulee 40: Battle of the Overnight Packs

[@erindewhirst2044]

EJA!!! (Female version of Exo) When cutting weight for middle age body became important but I didn’t want to sacrifice the incredible comfort of my Osprey Aura, I transitioned to EJA and I LOVE it! Great for our home state WA trails and then we packed the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim where the light-weight and ventilation of it really shine!! Even though I kept my Aura “just in case” I can’t imagine going back, except maybe snowshoe/winter camping with more gear. We aren’t ultralight hikers by any means but we now have a much lighter base weight and have learned over decades how to prioritize items. Happier knees and back means more time on trail!! Yes the buckles and straps take some getting used to, but mine does have a place on bottom for my pad and on front for trekking poles. Keep looking? Love your channel!

[@BackpackingTV]

Thanks so much for the comment, and glad to hear it! I've heard lots of good things about the Eja.

[@martytix]

For trekking poles on the exos you dont store them on the ouside of the bag with the compression straps, there is a spot on the left shoulder sling where you store the tops and slide the poles through another rubber band type on the bottom left of the bag.

[@natehikes]

It’s literally the most convenient system to stow your poles

[@JMyers79]

I was waiting for him to realize that, but he's obviously not as familiar with Osprey?

[@Kankudai69]

And both the Osprey and Mistery Ranch have loops for ice axes or trekking poles…

[@BackpackingTV]

I am aware of that stow and go system. It works for trekking poles! just not really my tripod, which is a uniquely-me problem.

[@Mattleigeber]

Great video. It was very informative. This video was perfect for me because I was always between the osprey evo and the coulee but now you’ve opened my eyes to the bridger

[@kielcary2904]

After watching several of your videos, you've really sold me the MR. I ordered the Bridger 45 today after finding it marked down to 230. I'm really pumped - I have a super generic Cabela's branded 55L (I think?) that I bought 15 years ago and never used for actual backbacking. I'm headed for my first mult-day this summer, and was trying to figure out if I should use that pack or buy something new. The thoughtfulness put into the design on the MR is so far above and beyond what I have. Now, I'm hoping to squeeze my kind-of-ultralight gear into the 45 for three nights. We'll see if I should have gone larger, but I like the challenge (and the idea of keeping it lighter due to that thoughtfulness!). Thanks for these videos!

[@natehikes]

The Exos is a great pack. And you can stow your trekking poles (or tripod) while moving, without even taking off the pack, with the stow and go system that comes with it.

[@BackpackingTV]

I do think the Exos is a nice pack. There was a lot I was impressed with. I didn't really get in to using the stow and go system but it makes sense that Osprey had a solution for my issue, I just don't think it would work well for tripods as they weigh a lot more. But that's really just my own issue, not applicable to most backpackers

[@natehikes]

@@BackpackingTV depending on size you can dangle a tripod from the initial loop in the stow and go system. Works decently, not fantastic. Love the channel btw ❤️

[@gregoryoutdoors]

Obviously he is not very experienced with the Osprey Exos, is easly the best one of 3 packs and extremely well done! Your main place to keep trekking poles are at the front left side, you can also use the bottom plastic trekking pole loop to hook your gorilla tripod or whatever there, it worked fine with mine. Also better to go with 58L. Looks like he does not like Osprey in general and is just grumpy old guy lol

[@BackpackingTV]

Well I am a grumpy old guy, that's for sure! But I do like Osprey packs, in general and specifically this one.

[@memorobles7857]

So, those trekking pole attachments on all Osprey packs are a nice touch and all but you make it seem like it's some sort of game changing feature when it's mostly just a gimmick. With a small bit of elastic, a cord lock and half a foot of cordage you can add a system like that to 99% of technical backpacks regardless of the brand. And the great thing about doing that is that you can have them on the left or on both sides if you want (which is what I do with all my technical packs). And even then, what the hell is wrong with putting your trekking poles on the side? I always have 3 or 4 ways to carry poles on most packs and still use all of them in different circumstances for different reasons. It's like with Gregory. All Gregory packs have a little elastic on the left shoulder strap with a small tab that has a cool little embroidered sunglasses icon. They market it as a "sunglasses holder" which like... sure, whatever lol. At the end of the day it's just a little piece of shock cord. It's not what makes Gregory packs good and you could add one to any other pack in 30 seconds so it shouldn't be the reason why you get a particular brand or style of pack. Small gimmicks like that are always cool, don't get me wrong, but they're not what makes or breaks a pack. It's the ergonomics, padding, overall materials, etc. that really make a pack good. You know, stuff that is truly inherent to the design...

[@SammyRingo]

Love Eric, but kind of hard to take him seriously on a comp between 2 MR packs (which is one of the, if not THE biggest sponsors of his channel, plus an admitted favorite brand of his) and an Osprey. This would be like Dan Durston comparing the X Mid 2, the X Mid 2 pro, and a Hyperlite.

[@BackpackingTV]

That's fair. I'm just trying to shine a light on the packs I've been using lately. Take my opinions with a grain of salt. I do actually like the Osprey Pack! I just had some nits to pick, which I also do with the Coulee.

[@LittIegator]

A lot of people with the Exos 48 reroute the cinch system on the sides so it stays out of the way of the side pockets.

[@ericwilson4553]

I did this with my Exos 58 and it works great!

[@BackpackingTV]

I've been hearing that. I gotta give that a try!

[@manuprisaca2764]

You have a photo or video about this reroute? Thank you

[@LittIegator]

@@manuprisaca2764 I don't have one but you basically just pull it out and run it straight up the side rather than zig-zagging up.

[@DaveDave65]

Another great review, thanks. I'm looking at another pack at some point in the next year & was looking at the Coulee but having seen that U-zipper, I was turned right off it for the same reasons. They pack up quickly. The Bridger's entry to the lower pack is the same as the Glacier, which I have & I love that. The zip-n-click way of closing it down just floats my boat nicely. I also like the Bridger's outside storage & agree with your assessment of the strehc fabric outside too. Wish they'd done that on the Coulee. Think I'll go find a Bridger to try on the next time I'm passing a decent outfitters here in Blighty. Thanks again & Happy Trails 👍

[@davidroberts5577]

Very nice review, though I disagree: the 🐕 makes it a very professional endeavor . 😉

[@BackpackingTV]

haha, Kovu is the consummate professional.

[@Will-xe5qt]

Another Osprey Exos fan here. The bias on this channel for all things Mystery Ranch is quite obvious

[@BackpackingTV]

I actually do like the Exos! My complaints about it are minor and I think it's a great pack especially at it's price point.

[@layne4376]

The Exos can’t compare to the Bridger. It is almost laughable

[@backpackerradio]

Great overview! Thanks for sharing!

[@BackpackingTV]

You're welcome!

[@kaptagn]

Great comparison, I am a bit biased towards Osprey as I have been running their Atmos 65L for 5-6 year without a single issue.

[@BackpackingTV]

well that's a good sign!

[@gumbi8989]

They should’ve kept the big front slip pockets from the previous coulee model. They have Way more stretch, and aren’t held back from the compression straps attached like the new version is. I really hope the endurance yoke makes its way over to the Coulee models in the near future too. That frame and harness system is crazy comfortable.

[@BackpackingTV]

I agree!

[@Brett_S]

Alpine Shop currently has the Bridger 45 for $155. 👍

[@aszalai86]

I have the Exos, and agree that there are better options out there and the webbing system is kinda insane... but it I managed to improve it a lot in 30 minutes by adding some quick release buckles. I love the trampoline back in warm weather. You should definitely not overpack it though as it will bulge and be very back-heavy due to the curved design needed for the trampoline. Oh, and I kinda wish that top flap was stowable somehow, it is always in the way. I got it on sale for 120EUR, so for the price I am still very happy with it. It also weighs like 1300g (which is... less than 3 pounds i think), so almost UL territory.

[@shadomane]

Great review on these packs. I would love to have the Bridger 45 as a step down in size from my Deuter Futura Vario 55+10. Thanks for the video and for sharing your thoughts and experience with us.

[@BackpackingTV]

Glad to be of service!

[@haydenpruitt5199]

I'm still saving up for that Bridger Lol. I wish they still made their backpacking here and United States Great videos by the way man thank you

[@BackpackingTV]

Yeah, they're a bit pricey but I think they're worth it!

[@laogai5700]

I had the MR Scree 32 which is very similiar to the Coulee. Even though it is a very nice backpack, ventilation and the very long hipbelts were reasons to sell it. I switched to Osprey Kestrel and Talon because of weight, also very comfy and very good ventilation. To say, Osprey backpacks are for entry level doesn't make sense. They have a purpose, which is lightweight, comfortable and breathy but still beeing quite sturdy as well. BTW I still have a Dana Design Terraplane. That is a backpack, unfortunately I don't use it that much anymore. To hefty...

[@layne4376]

Osprey are mass produced packs that must appeal to all including the neophyte. They are neither the best carriers, the lightest, or the most durable. They are kind of masters of nothing. Decent for the price which is why most beginners buy them from big box stores.

[@laogai5700]

​@@layne4376 If you're going out into nature, you don't necessarily need the lightest, best carrying or most durable backpack. Generally speaking, most people just need a durable backpack with a very good fit and perhaps some comfort features - a good all-arounder. Common backpacks like those from Osprey, Gregory and other well-known manufacturers are very suitable for this. In general and from my experience, it is all up to personal preferences between brands like MR, Osprey or Gregory. I would not dare to say, that one brand is better than the other or it is a beginner product.

[@layne4376]

@@laogai5700 The only thing subjective is fit. Everything else from quality, durability, frame / suspension, and features are 100% objective. Whether a pack is 'suitable' or not still doesn't effectively point out that there are better brands and models than others. It would be like saying that a Yugo is suitable. I am sure it is but it isn't a Porsche apart from having 4 wheels.

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

The Coulee is the most Mystery Ranch of the two MR packs there. It's heavy on their hunting tech (where they cut their teeth on). Coulee all day, every day and twice on Sunday (I own a Bridger 65 and a Coulee 40...I tried Osprey, but it didn't fit me right). The Coulee would be your 3 season "overnight" pack when you're just heading out, putting in one overnight stay, then coming back to the trailhead. It's more than a daypack, less than a backpack.

[@miltoncruz1168]

Would you recommend the coulee 40 as a daily gym/work bag for someone who commutes on a motorcycle? I feel this looks very comfortable when carrying maybe two sets of clothes (gym clothes and a change of clean clothes), shower essentials, work items (laptop & iPad). The hip belt and shoulder pads would be good especially being on a long commute on a motorcycle. Your thoughts?

[@Toglander]

Those Mystery Ranch packs are nice, but the lack of back ventilation, along with their ridiculous weight, make them a no-go for most hikers who value comfort on long hikes.

[@BackpackingTV]

Sort of. I do think Mystery Ranch can improve their ventilation and overall weight. But they are very comfortable packs, even on long hikes.

[@marycharleson3320]

I just started following and my first adventure backpacking is this weekend… 👋 I look back at your video for best gear for 2022.. The Copper tent looked pretty sweet. 😉 I will not be going but maybe a couple times a year if that because my husband’s not into it. I would appreciate your input on the tent you might think will work for me.. Thank you and Enjoy your journey in life and please keep sharing…

[@BackpackingTV]

Hey! The copper spur is amazing but probably overkill if you're only occasionally using it. For a decent mid-budget option I like the Marmot Tungsten (ultralight version if you can afford it)

[@marycharleson3320]

Perfect, Thank you very much for your input. 🌞

[@owlrecon6263]

Love my kifaru Stryker Xl and 44mag about the same price as the mystery ranch and the frame is a lot better IMHO than the yoke

[@BackpackingTV]

Looks like that is primarily a hunting pack, right? Not really a backpacking pack?

[@owlrecon6263]

@@BackpackingTV hunting/military/backpacking it will handle whatever you throw at it and come back for more

[@chrismoore600]

Nice review when's the wedding.🎉

[@BackpackingTV]

Thanks! Gettin' hitched in September.

[@chrismoore600]

@@BackpackingTV That's great been married for 27 years. If you can find a person you love and a life partner that shares your journey in life. Then you truly have a life like no other. Cheers.

[@seedmole]

Ditto about how annoying the compression straps are on the Exos. It does carry a load well, especially considering its weight. I really prefer the running vest-style harnesses though, ended up getting a Zerk 40 for dayhikes/overnights because of that.

[@BackpackingTV]

How do you like the Zerk?

[@colesky33]

Do you have a video on transitioning from car camping to backpacking? I honestly don’t know what gear I need to drop/add from my regular car camping stuff. Also don’t know what special considerations to make for backpacking my first time

[@EricFleming231]

get lighter versions of the stuff you have, or don't bring the item at all.

[@BackpackingTV]

I don't have a video specifically covering that. But it's mostly about saving space and weight. In all likelihood you gotta get a whole new set of equipment unless your tent, sleeping bag, mattress, stove, are already small and light.

[@craigelliott4338]

Osprey fan boy here!

[@BackpackingTV]

Welcome!

[@craigelliott4338]

@@BackpackingTV I love them.

[@Two_Names]

Is that bottom storage chamber of the Bridger a completely seperated compartment or essentially bottom access to the main compartment? I found i live when its a fully distinct compartment but that's just not a common feature in modern backpacks.

[@davefox1553]

THE MR weight took them out of consideration when I was looking for a pack. Just can't accept having 25% of my base weight being the pack itself. They are great packs from what I can tell and I am a little surprised they have not tried to get into the UL space more, (Like Osprey has done with the Exos/Exos Pro). I would love to see the MR vest harness on a lot of other packs, including some of the more popular UL packs. It looks insanely comfortable. I know it adds weight, but if the trade off is a much more comfortable carry then I would think it would easily offset the added weight.

[@stevewright2241]

Have you tried the Terraplane pack? I’m just curious. I’m a fan of all the old packs from his Dana Design days. I still got my Astralplane pack from when I was climbing

[@BackpackingTV]

Sadly I haven't used the Terraplane yet, I need to!

[@wuyeah1980]

Can Coulee 40 be on budget flights as carry on backpack?

[@sovamainnn8154]

im having trouble understanding what the yoke system is :(

[@pelan2008]

Can I put the" peak deisgn capture" on the bridger's strap?

[@silverflash1675]

You mentioned you’ve been using the coulee 20 Do you think it would be a good bag for urban hikes & beaches type of travel? Planning to carry beach towels first aid kit water and GoPro for my girlfriend and I, for a full day and thinking about getting the coulee 20 as a do it all bag

[@BackpackingTV]

The Coulee 20 can definitely handle urban travel! Depending on how big your beach towels are you may want a bigger size, like the 30

[@flybyguy1450]

Dude, store the trekking poles on the tool loops, not the side pockets.

[@richardstamper51]

The Focal didn't make the cut???

[@Mendy-yt4ei]

What is the size of the Bridger that u have ? Did u change the belt ?

[@BackpackingTV]

This one is the 45L. But I have the 55 and 65 versions too. I did not change out the belt.

[@ChrisHufnagel_Polymath]

Load lifters on any of them? I didn't hear any mention but I may have missed.

[@LittIegator]

Exos 48 has load lifters. Idk about the other 2.

[@David-lt9jw]

Got the Bridger 45. It has load lifters as well

[@BackpackingTV]

They all have load lifters.

[@davidcressey]

Why didnt you compare the Exos 55 Pro?

[@BackpackingTV]

I wanted to keep the comparisons to under 50 liter packs. Plus, the Exos was what I was able to get my hands on. Im curious about the pro version myself.

[@XxCTONxX]

What size do you use in the mystery ranch packs?

[@BackpackingTV]

Depends on my trip. I use 45-65 liter packs in general these days but my most common is to use the Bridger 55 though.

[@XxCTONxX]

@@BackpackingTV what size harness?

[@markcummings6856]

Osprey for the win. The others are Overpriced, Old Fashion, Heavy, poor Ventilation.

[@BackpackingTV]

I don't think Mystery Ranch is old fashioned, but they are certainly heavier. Dead comfortable though. Glad you like the Osprey!

[@RednerKlallamStrong]

If you got the money for good strong equipment for outside life style !!? Maybe people should get the materials they want their backpacks made out of !? And or sleeping bags and tents as well !!? 😮😊 !! . Myself I would start with shelter and what I sleep in then what I Carry my equipment in !!! . Strong flexible waterproof and breathable wear it counts !!?? 😊 . I would love to have the cash for everything I want made by my hands with the best materials money can buy for the Harshhest weather's earth can give me !!? .

[@undefeatedgaul3201]

“Overnight” lmfao I could stay in the woods a month with a 45l pack. Wtf are you people carrying you only have 1 night of kit in that thing

[@EricFleming231]

Kelty makes well priced backpacks, my man. Mystery Ranch is just too much money.

[@BackpackingTV]

Go with what works for you!