Osprey Farpoint 40 vs 55 Review Comparison

The Osprey Farpoint backpacks are great travel backpacks that can help you organize and carry your gear when on the road.

Two of the most popular sizes the Farpoint 40 and 55 are very similar, however, there are also a couple of major differences you need to be aware of.

In this review, I am going to show you exactly what to watch out for as well as the features they share so you can get the perfect overview and make an easy decision.

Osprey Farpoint 40 vs 55 - Main Differences

There are two main differences between Farpoint 40 and Farpoint 55:

The Farpoint 55 comes with a 15L detachable daypack
The Farpoint 40 is shorter (3″) and wider (1″) and deeper (3″) in size

Farpoint 55 Dimensions & Space

The 55L is bigger (15L / 900 cubic inches) but that extra volume is in the detachable pack.

The main pack also differs in shape and size because it is not meant as a daypack, whereas the 40L is.

So, you will find it is longer and thinner – but 4 inches deeper when all together, so far more of a “big” thing to have on your back. (But it’s only intended to carry to/from your home/destination – then you use the daypack).

Farpoint 55 Detachable Daypack

The daypack attaches to the front and sits under the compression straps (see 55L image). So, it kinda looks the same as the 40L when it’s all assembled.

However, the main pack is where the big storage area for your gear is. The daypack has the front organizer like on the 40L.

So, although these are very similar packs, the way your gear is stored and distributed might be a little different.

Carrying Options for Farpoint 55L Packs

Although the pack is wider when together, you can also carry it as two packs (one on the front / one on the back.). This is great for load balance and also if you are checking one part and carrying the other on a plane or even a train.

Inside is not as large as the porter, but then again this is a smaller pack (40L vs 46L). However, there are some cool internal compression straps you can use to get more out of the space you have.

Osprey Farpoint 44L & 55L - Shared Features

Apart from the two differences above, these two packs from Osprey actually share most of the same great travel pack features.

Inside Compartment

The main benefit of the Farpoint over other packs is the huge inside compartment.

This makes it easy to pack all your gear separate from all the small stuff (more on that later).

It also has a full-length U-shaped zipper that gives you complete access to the interior, which is great for filling all the space and getting to your gear. Once you are packed, there are also two compression straps inside to help compress and secure your load.

Another great addition is the full-length zippered mesh panel on the underside of the flap (see the green area in the image) which is great for smaller items.

Stowaway Harness Straps

With most travel packs decent shoulder straps and hip harness are often forgotten.

Osprey includes well-padded adjustable shoulder straps with these packs and hip/sternum straps to help keep the load off your shoulders too. Sure, it’s not a full hiking-grade harness, but it’s a great start.

On top of this, it can also be hidden behind a zippered panel for check-in. This then goes in a nice pocket below the straps when you don’t need it anymore (ie. when carrying your pack).

Front Compression Straps

They may not seem like a big deal, but the front compression straps just might save your day when traveling.

Once you are packed, you will find these packs are actually quite high. So, if you take them as carry-on, it might be hard to get them under the seat or even to look like they comply with the airlines’ size regulations.

The compression straps allow you to reduce the load volume and make the pack smaller and easier to carry. It also has the added bonus of securing your load.

Front Top & Main Pockets

Although not the super-organizer like in the Osprey Nebula (see that review if you like lots of pockets etc) the Farpoints have adequate space for a laptop (around 15.5″ size) and another padded pocket in front of that for other items (tablet, kindle, cables, etc).

Right, where the logo is you will find a smaller top pocket for your small items like keys, change, maybe also cables, and maybe even your phone or sunglasses if it is not too big.

Note: If you watch the video below at about the 5-minute mark you can see these pockets in detail.

Padded Handles

One last thing worth mentioning is the two well-padded handles on the top and side. These are useful for when the straps are all zipped up and you need to lift your pack (in line while checking in, or grabbing off the carousel).

PROS

Sturdy, durable materials
Perfect for weekends or slightly longer trips
Huge inside storage area for all your clothes and gear
Compression straps both inside and out for securing the load
Top-notch straps for use as a backpack or easy to zip away for travel

CONS

The electronics section is not extensive with only two pockets
There are fewer pockets than other Osprey packs, but simple can be good

Which Is Best For You? The Farpoint 40 or 55

For me, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is the perfect weekend travel companion. There is plenty of space inside, and you have room and easy access for your electronics and little things on the outside. It also turns into a duffel-style bag for check-in.

With the separate smaller daypack, the Farpoint 55 is great for longer trips where you want a small day pack but also more room for your things.

For the rest, there is not a huge amount between them as they both have the same great travel features and quality you can expect from Osprey.

I honestly don’t think you can go wrong with either of them but have a good look at the videos and point in the pros and cons, and then see what fits your travel style!

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack, Volcanic Grey, Small/Medium

• Large, lockable U-zip duffel-style access to main compartment - 40L total volume
• Meets carry-on size restrictions for most airlines (Size Medium/Large: 21H X 14W X 9D inches)

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Osprey Farpoint 55 Men's Travel Backpack, Jasper Red, Medium/Large

• Large, lockable U-zip duffel-style access to main compartment - 55L total volume
• Detachable daypack with designated laptop and tablet sleeve and scratch-free stash pocket

Buy On Amazon