The dimensions and weights stated refer to the current collections. The models are regularly updated – please check the specific product page before purchasing.
The Osprey Farpoint and its female counterpart, the Osprey Fairview, have been the most popular travel backpacks worldwide for years – particularly among backpackers, round-the-world travellers and digital nomads. They combine the carrying system of a trekking backpack with the practical opening of a travel bag. This guide shows you the differences, the three sizes (40/55/70 litres) and which model is worth it for whom.
Farpoint vs. Fairview – the two models
Farpoint
- For height 170–195 cm
- Back length M/L = 45–53 cm
- Wide shoulder straps
- Straight hip fin shape
- Colours: Black, Navy, Red, Tech-Beige
Fairview
- For height 155–180 cm
- Back length XS/S = 39–48 cm
- Narrower S-shaped shoulder straps
- Curved hip fin for women's proportions
- Colours: Black, Navy, Green, Berry
Important: The Farpoint and Fairview are basically identical in construction – only the carrying system is adapted to male or female body proportions. Features, volumes and equipment are the same.
The 3 sizes: 40, 55, 70 litres
Perfect for weekend trips and business travel up to 5 days. Airline-compliant.
The bestseller: 40 L main backpack + detachable 15 L daypack.
For round-the-world trips and 3+ weeks. 55 L main backpack + 15 L daypack.
Farpoint / Fairview 40 – the carry-on master
The 40-litre version is precisely matched to the carry-on dimensions of most airlines (55×40×23 cm). Ideal for:
- Business trips: 3–5 days with laptop and a spare shirt
- City trips: 4–6 days in Paris, Barcelona, Rome
- Quick flights: carry-on only – no waiting at the luggage belt
- Weekend trips: even with hiking boots and a jacket
The 40 L is not Ryanair-compliant (too wide). For budget airlines with the strict 55×40×20 cm limit, a specifically designed Ryanair-compliant backpack is a better choice.
Farpoint / Fairview 55 – the bestseller
The 55-litre model is the sales hit. Why? It's a 2-in-1 system:
- Main backpack: 40 L (carry-on compliant with all major airlines)
- Detachable daypack: 15 L attached to the front
At check-in, you have a compact main backpack plus a 15 L daypack that counts as a personal item. At your destination, you travel light with just the daypack for sightseeing. The main backpack stays at the hotel. Ideal for:
- 2–3 week trips: Southeast Asia, South America, Europe
- Backpacking: with changing accommodation
- Road trips: multiple stops with changing accommodation
Farpoint / Fairview 70 – the long-term version
The 70-litre model has a 55 L main backpack and a 15 L daypack. Only worthwhile for:
- Round-the-world trips (3+ months): more space for different climate zones
- Trekking tours: with tent, sleeping bag, stove
- Extended stays abroad: work & travel, au pair, longer trips
Important: The 70 L version is not suitable as carry-on and must be checked in.
Technical details and features
| Feature | 40 L | 55 L | 70 L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main backpack volume | 40 L | 40 L | 55 L |
| Daypack volume | — | 15 L | 15 L |
| Weight men's | ~1.5 kg | ~2.0 kg | ~2.3 kg |
| Weight women's | ~1.4 kg | ~1.9 kg | ~2.2 kg |
| Carry-on compliant | yes | yes (main pack only) | no |
| Hip fin | yes, foldable | yes, padded | yes, anatomical |
| Laptop compartment | 15" | 15" | 15" |
Farpoint vs. Fairview – which one suits me?
The deciding factor is back length, not gender. Two guidelines:
- Height 155–170 cm: Fairview XS/S fits better
- Height 170–180 cm: both work – Fairview for narrower shoulders, Farpoint for broader ones
- Height 180–195 cm: Farpoint M/L
If in doubt, it's best to try it on with weight inside. Back length determines wearing comfort on long trips.
When is the Farpoint/Fairview not the right choice?
- Pure hiking / trekking: Here the Osprey Aether / Ariel is better – more outer pockets, hydration system, ice axe loops
- Business only: A classic office backpack is enough
- Ryanair Priority: the 40 L doesn't fit the 55×40×20 limit
- Very light travellers: the Fairview weighs 1.4–2.2 kg – anyone under 55 kg should also factor in the empty weight
Alternative: Kestrel and Kyte
Anyone wanting something lighter and more hiking-oriented should go for the Osprey Kestrel (men's) or Kyte (women's). These models are designed for multi-day hiking trips and have significantly more outdoor features. For pure backpacking trips, however, the Farpoint/Fairview is usually the better choice – thanks to the suitcase-like opening.
Frequently asked questions about Farpoint and Fairview
What is the difference between Farpoint and Fairview?
Farpoint is the men's model (longer back length, straight hip fin, wider shoulder straps), Fairview is the women's model (shorter back length, curved hip fin for women's proportions, S-shaped shoulder straps). Features and equipment are identical.
Which size (40/55/70) is the right one?
For 2–7 days: 40 L (carry-on compliant). For 1–3 weeks: 55 L (bestseller, with daypack). For 3+ weeks or round-the-world trips: 70 L. If in doubt, go smaller – a backpack that's too large tends to get overpacked.
Is the Farpoint 40 carry-on compliant?
Yes, at 54×35×23 cm it fits within 55×40×23 cm (Lufthansa, Eurowings, Swiss). Not Ryanair-compliant (55×40×20 cm). For Ryanair flights you need a specially compact-cut backpack.
How heavy is the Farpoint 55?
Around 2.0 kg for the main backpack + 0.5 kg for the daypack = 2.5 kg total. For the Fairview 55, it's 1.9 kg + 0.5 kg = 2.4 kg. Very light for a 55 L backpack with a complete carrying system.
Which brand is better – Osprey or Deuter?
Both are top brands. Deuter has more tradition in German hiking circles and is often a bit cheaper. For travel: Osprey. For hiking: either works.
Can I use the daypack separately?
Yes, the 15 L daypack has its own shoulder straps and can be used as a complete backpack on its own. Perfect as a daypack for sightseeing while your main luggage stays at the hotel.
Conclusion: Farpoint and Fairview – the standard among travel backpacks
The Osprey Farpoint and Fairview series is the gold standard in travel backpacks. The key points:
- Farpoint for men, Fairview for women – identical features
- 40 L carry-on for weekends and business trips
- 55 L with daypack, the bestseller for 1–3 weeks
- 70 L for round-the-world trips and long-term stays
You'll find the complete Osprey range in the Osprey backpacks category. More helpful articles: Travelling with Kestrel & Kyte, Osprey Talon & Tempest, An overview of backpack types.
