Osprey Farpoint 55 Review (I Tested It in 10 Countries)

In this Osprey Farpoint 55 review, I’ll give you my honest take after years of experience traveling to 10 countries while testing the bag out in real-world conditions.

I discovered that the Osprey Farpoint’s storied reputation as one of the best backpacks for travel is very valid, but it still might not be the best fit for every traveler. 

In this comprehensive, candid review, I’m going to explain all the unique Osprey Farpoint 55 features. I’ll cover some pros cons you need to know. And, if the Farpoint isn’t right for you, I’ll even share some backpacks to consider. But, first, a quick summary …

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Osprey Farpoint 55 Review Quick Summary

The Osprey Farpoint 55 is an impressive two-in-one style backpack that comes with a huge main pack for all your clothes and gear, along with a smaller pack for day trips. The Farpoint 55 is water-resistant and meets carry-on requirements for most airlines. It also features a top-of-the-line suspension system that makes 50 pounds feel like 5. There is even a rescue whistle on the straps in case you face an emergency.

While it does sacrifice a bit in terms of organizational features, and can get bulky when packed full, overall the Osprey Farpoint 55 is a greatbackpack for travelers looking for a complete carry-on bag system.

Beyond the backpack’s useful features, it’s backed by Osprey’s legendary All-Mighty Guarantee. Osprey will repair or replace your bag for free no matter when you bought it. All in all, there is no safer backpack bet than the Osprey Farpoint 55 in my opinion.

Pros of Osprey Farpoint 55

• Two packs in one 
• All-Mighty Osprey Guarantee lifetime warranty
• Technically a carry-on
• Extremely durable and lasts forever 
• Huge main front-loading compartment 
• Made of water-resistant material 
• Comfortably padded straps that stow away 
• Advanced suspension system that makes it easy to carry 
• Lots of colors to choose from

Cons of Osprey Farpoint 55

• Fairly expensive
• Limited organization system inside
• Gets bulky if packed to capacity

Osprey Farpoint 55 is best for:

• Long-term travelers
• Backpackers
• Digital nomads 
• Budget travelers 
• Minimalist explorers who travel light

Osprey Farpoint 55 might not be a fit for:

• Weekend trips 
• Hikers and campers 
• Luxury travelers

Osprey Farpoint 55 Full Review

Osprey Farpoint 55 Features

Now that we’ve scratched the surface, let’s get into the meat of the Osprey Farpoint. There is a lot to unpack here. 

My favorite thing about the Osprey Farpoint is that it holds a whole little world of features that can help you along your travels. From ultra-comfortable front shoulder straps to an attachable front pack. Just check these bad boys out: 

Main Pack & Day Pack

⭐ STAR RATING: 4.8 / 5 stars

One of the first things that caught my eye is that the Osprey Farpoint 55 is actually a two-for-one deal. It comes with a large main pack for your essentials that would typically stay back at the hotel or hostel. Then, there’s that detachable daypack that you can bring on daily excursions.

Suitcase-Style Main Compartment With Large Mesh Pocket 

⭐ STAR RATING: 4.5 / 5 stars

The main backpack opens up into a huge front-loading storage space. There is a lot of room in there and a mesh zippered compartment on the flap for underwear and socks. There are also two sets of sturdy straps to hold everything in place after packing. 

The main complaint people have about the big bag is that there isn’t much of a built-in organizational system. However, packing cubes fit perfectly inside like puzzle pieces. I actually prefer this to pre-organized systems. 

Comfortable, Adjustable Shoulder Straps

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars

When you’re carrying around a backpack that’s stuffed to the brim, you’re going to notice if the shoulder straps aren’t up to snuff. Luckily, the Osprey Farpoint excels in this department. The strap system is well-padded and totally adjustable to fit your body. Exactly what you’ll need running around a new place on a backpacking trip. 

Thick Hip Belt With Memory Foam Back Padding 

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars

The other big support strap on the Farpoint main bag is its massive, cushion-y hip belt. It’s amazing how much painful weight these straps take off your back. I can’t tell you how many times I packed my bag a little too heavy and my bag’s hip straps saved me from struggling all day. 

It makes carrying in the Farpoint a total breeze and as minimal as it seems, it’s one of my favorite features on the big pack. 

Strap Stowaway Tool 

⭐ STAR RATING: 4.5 / 5 stars

Just from those photos alone, you’re probably thinking that the Farpoint’s strap system is a little clumsy. But, Osprey figured that out, too. The bag comes with a zippered rear flap that stows away the entire harness system and straps. Effectively turning the bag into a duffel bag or briefcase-style. 

It’s just what you need if you end up checking your bag or don’t want to trip over the straps running through crowds.  

Rescue Whistle Strap

⭐ STAR RATING: 4.5 / 5 stars

You can never take too many safety precautions when traveling. Clearly, Osprey agrees as they’ve equipped the Farpoint 55 with an inconspicuous rescue whistle right on the chest strap. If you get hurt somewhere or encounter another emergency, this little feature could save your life.  

Side Handle

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars

I prefer to carry my bag backpack-style, but many people prefer carrying their pack like a suitcase. Osprey accommodates those preferences, too. The Farpoint 55 comes with a firm handle on the side of the bag to carry in like a suitcase.  

Advanced Suspension System

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars

There are a few things that make the Osprey Farpoint 55 such a comfortable bag to carry no matter how long you’re on your feet. But, the big one is the bag’s advanced suspension system.

The frame of the pack is designed to distribute the weight of your bag evenly while making it easy for you to still move around. No matter what you’re doing, the suspension system keeps everything manageable. 

Detachable Daypack

⭐ STAR RATING: 4.8 / 5 stars

My Osprey Farpoint daypack has been on a ridiculous amount of adventures with me. It’s come with me to climb volcanoes at sunrise in Bali, islands in Cambodia, and through national parks in Colombia. 

Ever since I bought the pack in 2018, the Osprey daypack has become like a third limb for me. Yet, despite all this usage through sun, rain, and snow, it’s held up beautifully. It’s still my go-to bag for any ole’ day trip. That speaks volumes about its quality. 

Daypack Interior With Laptop Sleeve

⭐ STAR RATING: 4.8 / 5 stars

Inside the Farpoint 55 daypack is a fairly standard set-up with a laptop compartment, zippered pocket, and main bag space. The coolest thing about the interior of the daypack is that it’s very water resistant. 

I once got caught in a massive storm in the heart of Thailand’s rainy season with this on my back. I panicked, fearing all my stuff inside would be ruined. But, when I finally opened it up, everything was completely dry. Mind blown.  

Day Pack & Main Pack Attachment System

⭐ STAR RATING: 4.5 / 5 stars

If you want to put everything together, the smaller daypack straps right onto the main backpack. 

When I first got the bag, I thought this feature would be super handy. But the design isn’t as flawless as it seems. 

When connected, the bag is just too bloated to carry and feels off-balance. I haven’t strapped my daypack onto the bigger backpack since I bought the Farpoint. It’s just way too bulky with it when it’s packed full. Alternatively, I like to use the straps for things like a yoga mat or a sleeping bag. 

Technical Specifications 

• Weight: 4.181 lbs (1.89 kg)
• Dimensions: 22 inches x 14 inches X 9 inches (55 cm x 35 cm x 22 cm)
• Material: Recycled Twist Dobby Polyester 
• Color Options: Black, Winter Night Blue, Zircon Red, Night Jungle Blue
• Warranty & Guarantee: All Mighty Guarantee – Osprey will repair any damage or defect for any reason free of charge no matter when you bought it. If they can’t perform a functional repair on your pack, they will replace it.  

Osprey Farpoint Alternatives

Even though the Osprey Farpoint 55 is my go-to backpack, it’s not the right match for everybody. If the Farpoint isn’t feeling right for you, these other travel backpacks might be exactly what you need. 

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 

If you want a better organizational system built into your bag, then you might be more into the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag. 

This thing is a maze of different pockets that come in a variety of shapes and sizes – it’s like the bag is made with built-in packing cubes. It’s still very compact and works well as a carry-on bag. It’s a little stouter than the Farpoint 55, so it is the ideal fit for shorter travelers. Read my full Topo Designs Global Travel Bag review for more.

Osprey Porter 46 

Want to stay in the Osprey family but the Farpoint doesn’t feel right? Consider the Osprey Porter 46 instead. The Porter has many of the tempting benefits that come with the Farpoint, including durability, convertibility, and Osprey’s All-Mighty Guarantee. However, it’s a little smaller and less intense than Farpoint, making it a better option for short-term trips. 

Nate, the founder and CEO here at TL, has actually carried the Osprey Porter 46 to over 60 countries so far! You can get his expert insights into the bag by reading his Osprey Porter 46 review. 

Tortuga Travel Backpack 

If you need a simpler, less “backpacker” bag, then I’d go for the Tortuga Travel Backpack. This bag is a heaven-sent carry-on, compliant with both US and international restrictions. 

It’s super lightweight and easy to carry, and the Tortuga is eco-friendly and covered by the company’s worldwide warranty. Its sleek design makes it a good pick for business travelers who just want something effective and basic. 

Check out our Tortuga Travel Backpack review

FINAL VERDICT – Is Osprey Farpoint 55 Worth It?

I’ve been screaming it from the mountain tops since my first trip with the bag: The Osprey Farpoint is absolutely worth it! Even though the price tag might be a little intimidating at first, this bag will last you for life. If anything does happen to it, Osprey will always have you covered. 

The Farpoint 55 is high-quality, comfortable, and practical for long-term travelers and backpackers. However, it might be a bit too much for short-term travel. 

⭐ STAR RATING: 4.8 / 5 stars

FAQs about Osprey Farpoint 55 

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Thanks for reading my honest review of the Osprey Farpoint 55! After relying on the Farpoint through 10+ countries, I’m thrilled to pass along the torch of insight. If you’re still on the hunt for the right luggage for you, check out our list of the 6 best carry-on luggage bags this year.