Osprey uses all of their design intelligence in making comfortable carrying systems in the Farpoint and Fairview, creating one of the best backpacks for travel you can buy. Despite having an excellent back system that is just amazingly comfortable on the shoulders and hips, the Farpoint and Fairview 40 are deliberately subtle in their looks. The new colorways this year; black, grey, green, and muted blue compliment the bag perfectly, keeping it looking stylish and sophisticated.
The Airscape back panel has torso adjustment for longer and shorter bodies and there's even a small mesh hip belt pocket for storing gels and snacks. The entire back system, wide hipbelt, and heavily cushioned shoulder straps can be packed away and zipped up for an even more sleek look and to protect straps should you have to check the bag in. In this configuration, there are two large chunky grab handles, one on the top and one on the side from which you can carry your bag.
With enough space for a weekend trip, or even longer if you pack light, the Farpoint and Fairview are perfect carry-on bags. The Farpoint opens up via a two-way zip. This opens the top of the bag completely so you can lay it down on the floor and get unhindered access to the entirety of what's inside. Internally there's a padded laptop sleeve capable of holding a large 16-inch laptop. This is easily accessed through a side zip in busy airport queues.
Internal compression straps stop your kit from tumbling around inside the bag, and the entirety of the front clamshell opening is decked in a mesh liner with a zip opening in which to store bits and pieces of dirty laundry. On the outside of the bag, there's a large front kangaroo pocket and a zipped top pocket for small items like sunglasses and keys.
The 450D outer fabric is bluesign approved recycled polyester, with a PFC free DWR treatment to help water roll off the surface. The whole bag feels thick and durable and everything about the Farpoint is incredibly well made, from the quality of the fabric, to the zips, buckles, and stitching.
In our opinion, this really is the perfect carry-on travel backpack. It's endlessly versatile, being suited to anything from business travel to adventure travel. It also transitions seamlessly from a high-quality airport hauler into a capable hiking backpack whatever your destination.
