Osprey Farpoint 40 Review: The Ultimate Carry-On Travel Backpack

Published July 20, 2026 · Reviewed by the Unbiased Advice & Insights editorial team · How we research and score

The Osprey Farpoint 40 has long been a favorite among one-bag travelers for its balance of comfort, durability, and carry-on compliance. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to bring you an honest assessment of this popular backpack. Below we cover design and build, performance, ease of use, cleaning, and common buyer complaints.

Design and Build

The Farpoint 40 features a panel-loading design with a large main compartment accessed via a wraparound zipper. The exterior is made from a mix of 210D nylon dobby and 420D nylon packcloth, which offers good abrasion resistance while keeping weight down. The backpack has a sleek, low-profile appearance suitable for urban travel. The suspension system includes a padded backpanel with a framesheet that transfers weight to the stowable hipbelt. The shoulder straps are lightly padded and contoured. One notable design choice is the lack of an external water bottle pocket, which some travelers find inconvenient. The laptop compartment is located on the front of the pack, accessed via a side zipper, and fits most 15-inch laptops. Lockable zippers on the main compartment provide basic security.

Performance

In terms of carrying comfort, the Farpoint 40 excels for its size. The hipbelt effectively transfers load to the hips, making it comfortable for walking through airports or cities for extended periods. The backpanel offers good ventilation, though not as breathable as some hiking packs. The main compartment is a single large space with a compression strap and a small zippered pocket on the inside flap. Organization is minimal, so you will need packing cubes or pouches to keep items sorted. The backpack fits easily into most airline carry-on sizers, and the stowable hipbelt prevents snagging. The lack of load lifters on the shoulder straps means you cannot fine-tune the fit, but for typical travel loads (under 20 lbs), this is rarely an issue. The Farpoint 40 also comes in a women's specific version (the Fairview 40) with different strap spacing and hipbelt shape.

Ease of Use

The Farpoint 40 is straightforward to pack and access. The panel-loading design allows you to open the bag like a suitcase, making it easy to see and reach all contents. The laptop compartment is conveniently placed for quick removal at security. The stowable hipbelt is simple to tuck away when not needed. However, the lack of a water bottle pocket means you must carry a bottle inside the pack or use a carabiner to attach one externally. The compression straps help stabilize the load but can be fiddly to tighten. Overall, the backpack is user-friendly for travelers who prefer a minimalist approach.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Osprey Farpoint 40 is straightforward. For spot cleaning, use a mild soap and a soft cloth. For a deeper clean, hand wash the backpack in cool water with a gentle detergent, then air dry. Avoid machine washing or drying, as this can damage the fabric and padding. The zippers should be periodically lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant to keep them running smoothly. The framesheet can be removed for easier cleaning. Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee covers any defect or damage for the lifetime of the product, so you can send it in for repairs if needed.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the Farpoint 40 receives high marks overall, some users report a few drawbacks. The most frequent complaint is the absence of an external water bottle pocket, which many travelers consider essential. Others find the internal organization too sparse, requiring additional pouches. Some users with shorter torsos find the hipbelt sits too low or is too bulky. A few have noted that the shoulder straps can dig in when the pack is heavily loaded (over 25 lbs). Additionally, the laptop compartment location on the front can make the pack feel unbalanced if the laptop is heavy. Despite these issues, the Farpoint 40 remains a top contender for carry-on travel backpacks, especially for those who value comfort and simplicity.

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See our full buying guides hub and our research and scoring methodology. We compared specifications and verified owner feedback; we did not physically test every product.