This is my one and only pack. My dad got it free in a search and rescue class, and let me use it for a two night backpacking trip and I’ve had it since. It was very forgiving for a noob with no idea how to pack or prepare. I bought a Slumberjack Daybreak 2 tent. Solid tent that I still use but doesn’t pack down very small. I grabbed the only sleeping pad I could find at the local Academy that was a step above Walmart’s blue foam pad. I got a Thermarest Hiker self inflating pad that packed about the same size as the tent. Neither would fit inside the pack with all my other gear I thought I needed. But it all worked out. All clothes and cooking gear went inside the pack while the tent was strapped to the bottom. The pad rode on top of the pack between the brain and top opening. All together I had around 38 lbs of crap. I’ve lightened my load considerably, but the Kestrel 48 is still the same hoss I use.
I bought a 48. I use it as a lightweight backpack for 2-3 days Pros -light -pockets -durable Separate water bladder holder Cons- the back ventilation is ok at best for me Which is my only annoyance Over all a 8.5/10
I take mine canyoneering and trekking. I agree that the suspension system isnt as fancy as some other options in the same price range, but what it is, is a heck of a lot more durable than most suspension systems. I think nothing of chucking it down a 20 foot cliff, something I wouldn't do with fancier packs.
I bought this pack about a month ago and I love it you pointed out some stuff about this pack which I did not even know so after watching this video my pack felt brand new again fabulous video for a fabulous backpack
I've been stuck between the Atmos 50 AG and this pack. I kept replaying this video trying to figure out what the Kestrel is missing that is such a great feature of the Atmos. Finally, the light came on. With the larger capacity of the Atmos not withstanding, it's the canted water bottle holder, which makes the bottle accessible while wearing the pack. Osprey blew it by not making that feature available on the Kestrel. Thanks for the review!
Little late to the party, but I still love this bag. I also got a gregory baltoro and I prefer how the kestrel wears. I really wish they didn't fix the lid for longer trips, that is my only negative with the bag.
I typically use more rugged bushcraft packs but wanted to get more into lightweight hiking and was looking for a pack that would suit my likes , I chose the Kestrel 48 , its the perfect size for my typical 2-5 night packouts , and honestly its more rugged than I expected which is perfect being I can be rough on my gear so I buy nothing but quality and Osprey gear always has been . I also like that the hydration bladder compartment is on the outside , i dont use bladders but have found other uses for that space ......Only negative , the rain cover is obnoxiously loud lmao .....
A bit late to the comments I know! Great explanation from Luke. Many thanks. I've had this brilliant pack for about 4 years. I just wondered if you might have any advice for washing/cleaning it? All the best from the UK. Ged
Thanks for the kind words, and glad you love the Kestrel! It's a classic. Osprey recommends spot cleaning after each trip, using a mild non-detergent soap like Nikwax Tech Wash, warm water and a soft brush to clean spots and zippers. If you need to do a full wash, remove any removable parts, brush off any debris or dust, and handwash in a bathtub or large sink with warm water a mild non-detergent soap like Nikwax Tech Wash. Slosh it around and scrub any areas that need scrubbing with a soft brush, before rinsing thoroughly. Hang to dry!
Would this bag be able to pass as a carry on (obviously if not overfilled)? Heading out to Europe later this year and was hoping to survive with a quality carry on
If you're in doubt then you should try the Kestrel 32. It has a zippered panel opening which is excellent to getting stuff inside, and also very easy to take it as a carry on.
Yeah, people are all over the map with this. I've seen ad copy for a lot of 50L packs saying that they're for "overnight". Makes it hard to decide on a pack size if you're coming in with zero experience.
It really depends on the environment you're camping in and your gear. My synthetic bag takes up over 15 liters and 4 lb. If I have a down bag, that'll be 4 liters and 2 lb. If it's summer you won't need bulky clothes and a thick sleeping pad. The size and weight of your tent is also another huge factor.
I've had this backpack for over a year. I've used it for 23 days expeditions, without food. it is really good. if you are looking for making food and more, get a bigger one, but this one will do for everything you need without carrying food for longer expeditions.@@opmike343
@@nigugo29 This is not meant to be a wise-ass question. In all seriousness, if you were out for a 23 day expedition, how did you do that without food? I'm stuck between this pack and the "Osprey Atmos 50 AG". Thanks! Roger
I agree with Ben. I have a 38 from 2009 which I still use and is a great overnight and daypack. But The 48 is perfect for anything more than an ovrtnighter. 👍
Hey backcountry edge - I’m going on a 10 day vacation to Hawaii this summer and I need a bag for travel that could double as a day hiking bag. Can the kestrel 48 do that? If not can you make some recommendations? Thanks!
The Kestrel 48 would be great on a multi-day hike like the Kalaulau Trail, but might be a bit big for a day hike, though it depends what how much you carry. You might try the Farpoint 55, which has just a little more storage for the travel days, plus a removable day pack. Check it out here: www.backcountryedge.com/backpacking-and-camping-gear/backpacks-bags/travel-packs/osprey-farpoint-55-2016.html?.com&X-iHAg55yOU Aloha!
Backcountry Edge Just to let you know I went with the Mountainsmith Scream 25 to use as a daypack on this trip. I never used a packable bag before but this one looks pretty good.
Hi, how are you ? First. I would like to say, you did greats videos about osprey backpack but now I'm really confuse which is the best , osprey Atmos 50, stratos 50 or kestrel 48. I will do a long trip for long time. Can you help me which is the best for that case ? I don't know they all look the same. Thanks
Hi, thanks for your support! If you have a compact, lighter-weight kit then I would suggest the Exos 48 (just be aware the newest model doesn't have hip belt pockets). The Exos is a lighter pack and is popular for long hikes, though you would want a pack weight of about 30-35 lbs (approx. 13.6 - 15.9 kg) maximum. The Kestrel would be a good alternative to the Exos if you don't plan on doing a lot of hiking/camping. If you plan on having a heavier pack weight, 30+ lbs, then the Atmos will prove the most comfortable pack, as it has the most robust suspension system of the packs in question.
+Backcountry Edge thanks for the reply. i ended up returning it because while the bag fit me, the waist straps were too long for my 33" waist...i had less than an inch to spare after tightening it down. after extensive search, i found that 2016 model waist belt length is actually 3" shorter. on ML size, 2016 model accommodates > 29", while 2015 model fits >32". another interesting thing is the advertised size... for 2016, it's 15 " wide and 16" deep, while 2016 model's dimensions were 13" wide and 13 deep... but i don't think bag size changed at all.
+hieronimus hendrawan The Talon series of packs are much more ultralight and minimal style packs. They'll have framing, but the padding won't be as substantial as what you'll find with the Kestrel series. The Kestrel packs will have more pockets, access, and overall organization. The framing will be more sturdy and the padding will be more substantial. So, if you're carrying more and heavier gear, the Kestrel series will probably provide better performance. Also, the materials that make up the Kestrel are more durable than the Talon series.
This pack seems to be about the same size as pack commonly used on the PCT and AT , and it seems to have all the same features, so is this suitable for a 5-6 MONTH hike?
The suspension system of the Kestrel 48 can support up to a total pack weight of up to 40 pounds, but that is on the upper end of what we'd recommend. If your base weight is under 20 pounds, and your total pack weight doesn't exceed 30 pounds on a regular basis, the Kestrel 48 could work as a Thru Hiking pack. The range Osprey gives is 25-40 pounds. But we would not recommend carrying close to 40 pounds in it very often.
Thank you for the question. The Talon pack is suited for fast and light adventures. It has been a favorite for ultralight enthusiasts and its only downfall happens when it is overloaded. The Kestrel will carry more weight more comfortably than the Talon, but it is heavier and bulkier.
This is the 2016 model, which is on closeout at the moment. The newest version of the Kestrel is this year's model www.backcountryedge.com/osprey-kestrel-48-2019.html?.com&X-iHAg55yOU . Thanks for posting!
These packs will have similar durability because their fabric is nearly equal. You'll find that the Atmos has a much more advanced suspension system and design, so it will likely be more comfortable, more durable, and provide a better experience overall. Thanks for watching!
This pack's dimensions come in around 28 x 15 x 16 which exceeds most domestic carry-on restrictions. Consider your airline's regulations in order to determine whether or not this pack will work for your travels. Thanks for watching!
That’s true but the back panel is really only around 22.5-23 inches. So just barely over size for a carry on. When measured against my rolling carry on, it isn’t any longer really
These packs vary greatly, so it depends on your intended use. The Kestrel is designed as a do-it-all pack with more robust fabrics and framing. It also has more features than what you'll find on the Talon packs. The Talon is designed to be more lightweight and minimal. It won't hold as much weight and is stripped down in comparison to the Kestrel. Finally, the Kestrel includes a rain cover and the Talon does not.
Thanks for your question. Luke is around 6'1" tall. Keep in mind the Kestrel does come in sizes and those sizes depend on the torso size of the user, not the height.
This is my one and only pack. My dad got it free in a search and rescue class, and let me use it for a two night backpacking trip and I’ve had it since. It was very forgiving for a noob with no idea how to pack or prepare. I bought a Slumberjack Daybreak 2 tent. Solid tent that I still use but doesn’t pack down very small. I grabbed the only sleeping pad I could find at the local Academy that was a step above Walmart’s blue foam pad. I got a Thermarest Hiker self inflating pad that packed about the same size as the tent. Neither would fit inside the pack with all my other gear I thought I needed. But it all worked out. All clothes and cooking gear went inside the pack while the tent was strapped to the bottom. The pad rode on top of the pack between the brain and top opening. All together I had around 38 lbs of crap. I’ve lightened my load considerably, but the Kestrel 48 is still the same hoss I use.
I bought a 48. I use it as a lightweight backpack for 2-3 days
Pros -light
-pockets
-durable
Separate water bladder holder
Cons- the back ventilation is ok at best for me
Which is my only annoyance
Over all a 8.5/10
I take mine canyoneering and trekking. I agree that the suspension system isnt as fancy as some other options in the same price range, but what it is, is a heck of a lot more durable than most suspension systems. I think nothing of chucking it down a 20 foot cliff, something I wouldn't do with fancier packs.
I bought this pack about a month ago and I love it you pointed out some stuff about this pack which I did not even know so after watching this video my pack felt brand new again fabulous video for a fabulous backpack
It is a great pack. Enjoy!
I've been stuck between the Atmos 50 AG and this pack. I kept replaying this video trying to figure out what the Kestrel is missing that is such a great feature of the Atmos. Finally, the light came on. With the larger capacity of the Atmos not withstanding, it's the canted water bottle holder, which makes the bottle accessible while wearing the pack. Osprey blew it by not making that feature available on the Kestrel. Thanks for the review!
Little late to the party, but I still love this bag. I also got a gregory baltoro and I prefer how the kestrel wears. I really wish they didn't fix the lid for longer trips, that is my only negative with the bag.
Thanks for sharing!
Very well done through review of this pack!! Thank you!!
Thanks Ryan, stay tuned!
I typically use more rugged bushcraft packs but wanted to get more into lightweight hiking and was looking for a pack that would suit my likes , I chose the Kestrel 48 , its the perfect size for my typical 2-5 night packouts , and honestly its more rugged than I expected which is perfect being I can be rough on my gear so I buy nothing but quality and Osprey gear always has been . I also like that the hydration bladder compartment is on the outside , i dont use bladders but have found other uses for that space ......Only negative , the rain cover is obnoxiously loud lmao .....
Thanks for the information. I really can't decide between the 38 and the 48 though...
I am in the same boat. Did you end up getting one? If so which one?
Hi Josh, I went for the 48.
Thank you for the thorough review. Very informative!
Nice review. Thanks. I will probably pick one of these up today at 25% off. Lucky me!
sorry backcountry makes you do reviews in the freezer, i mean with the down jacket and beanie and all. nice pack though
A bit late to the comments I know! Great explanation from Luke. Many thanks.
I've had this brilliant pack for about 4 years. I just wondered if you might have any advice for washing/cleaning it? All the best from the UK. Ged
Thanks for the kind words, and glad you love the Kestrel! It's a classic. Osprey recommends spot cleaning after each trip, using a mild non-detergent soap like Nikwax Tech Wash, warm water and a soft brush to clean spots and zippers. If you need to do a full wash, remove any removable parts, brush off any debris or dust, and handwash in a bathtub or large sink with warm water a mild non-detergent soap like Nikwax Tech Wash. Slosh it around and scrub any areas that need scrubbing with a soft brush, before rinsing thoroughly. Hang to dry!
@@Enwild Many thanks! All the best, Ged
Would this bag be able to pass as a carry on (obviously if not overfilled)? Heading out to Europe later this year and was hoping to survive with a quality carry on
If you're in doubt then you should try the Kestrel 32. It has a zippered panel opening which is excellent to getting stuff inside, and also very easy to take it as a carry on.
I'm wondering why Osprey raincover is always in green.
Osprey does make a high visibility rain cover in bright yellow. Check it out here:www.enwild.com/osprey-hi-vis-raincover-2015.html?.com&HAg55yOU
"long day hikes or lightweight overnighters" I always heard 40 - 50 liters would be a good pack for 1-3 day trips
Yeah, people are all over the map with this. I've seen ad copy for a lot of 50L packs saying that they're for "overnight". Makes it hard to decide on a pack size if you're coming in with zero experience.
I will take this one for 3 weeks. Ofc without food inside
It really depends on the environment you're camping in and your gear. My synthetic bag takes up over 15 liters and 4 lb. If I have a down bag, that'll be 4 liters and 2 lb. If it's summer you won't need bulky clothes and a thick sleeping pad. The size and weight of your tent is also another huge factor.
I've had this backpack for over a year. I've used it for 23 days expeditions, without food. it is really good. if you are looking for making food and more, get a bigger one, but this one will do for everything you need without carrying food for longer expeditions.@@opmike343
@@nigugo29 This is not meant to be a wise-ass question. In all seriousness, if you were out for a 23 day expedition, how did you do that without food? I'm stuck between this pack and the "Osprey Atmos 50 AG". Thanks! Roger
idk if i should get the 48 or 38? I'm pretty minimalist but still carry a tent. usually 3 days max.
Definitely 48
I agree with Ben. I have a 38 from 2009 which I still use and is a great overnight and daypack. But The 48 is perfect for anything more than an ovrtnighter. 👍
Thanks for this fantastic review. It really helped me make up my mind and go with this version of Osprey pack :)
Hey backcountry edge - I’m going on a 10 day vacation to Hawaii this summer and I need a bag for travel that could double as a day hiking bag. Can the kestrel 48 do that? If not can you make some recommendations? Thanks!
The Kestrel 48 would be great on a multi-day hike like the Kalaulau Trail, but might be a bit big for a day hike, though it depends what how much you carry.
You might try the Farpoint 55, which has just a little more storage for the travel days, plus a removable day pack. Check it out here: www.backcountryedge.com/backpacking-and-camping-gear/backpacks-bags/travel-packs/osprey-farpoint-55-2016.html?.com&X-iHAg55yOU
Aloha!
Backcountry Edge Just to let you know I went with the Mountainsmith Scream 25 to use as a daypack on this trip. I never used a packable bag before but this one looks pretty good.
What is the difference between the Kestrel 48 and the Gregory Stout 45?
is the model on the video in ash gray colour?
Yup. Thanks for watching!
Hi, how are you ? First. I would like to say, you did greats videos about osprey backpack but now I'm really confuse which is the best , osprey Atmos 50, stratos 50 or kestrel 48. I will do a long trip for long time. Can you help me which is the best for that case ? I don't know they all look the same. Thanks
Hi, thanks for your support! If you have a compact, lighter-weight kit then I would suggest the Exos 48 (just be aware the newest model doesn't have hip belt pockets). The Exos is a lighter pack and is popular for long hikes, though you would want a pack weight of about 30-35 lbs (approx. 13.6 - 15.9 kg) maximum. The Kestrel would be a good alternative to the Exos if you don't plan on doing a lot of hiking/camping. If you plan on having a heavier pack weight, 30+ lbs, then the Atmos will prove the most comfortable pack, as it has the most robust suspension system of the packs in question.
great review,,, on this 2016 model, are the waist belt ( the padded part) same length as the 2015 model?
+abigcess The sizing for the Kestrel series is the same for this year but the materials have been updated. Thanks for watching!
+Backcountry Edge thanks for the reply.
i ended up returning it because while the bag fit me, the waist straps were too long for my 33" waist...i had less than an inch to spare after tightening it down.
after extensive search, i found that 2016 model waist belt length is actually 3" shorter. on ML size, 2016 model accommodates > 29", while 2015 model fits >32".
another interesting thing is the advertised size...
for 2016, it's 15 " wide and 16" deep, while 2016 model's dimensions were 13" wide and 13 deep... but i don't think bag size changed at all.
great video, for lightweight backpacking, should i go for this or talon series ? it seems that kestrel series more durable .
+hieronimus hendrawan The Talon series of packs are much more ultralight and minimal style packs. They'll have framing, but the padding won't be as substantial as what you'll find with the Kestrel series. The Kestrel packs will have more pockets, access, and overall organization. The framing will be more sturdy and the padding will be more substantial. So, if you're carrying more and heavier gear, the Kestrel series will probably provide better performance. Also, the materials that make up the Kestrel are more durable than the Talon series.
This pack seems to be about the same size as pack commonly used on the PCT and AT , and it seems to have all the same features, so is this suitable for a 5-6 MONTH hike?
The suspension system of the Kestrel 48 can support up to a total pack weight of up to 40 pounds, but that is on the upper end of what we'd recommend. If your base weight is under 20 pounds, and your total pack weight doesn't exceed 30 pounds on a regular basis, the Kestrel 48 could work as a Thru Hiking pack. The range Osprey gives is 25-40 pounds. But we would not recommend carrying close to 40 pounds in it very often.
hi Backcountry, i was wondering if you can give me an idea if i'll get a talon or krestrel? what are the pros and cons?
Thank you for the question. The Talon pack is suited for fast and light adventures. It has been a favorite for ultralight enthusiasts and its only downfall happens when it is overloaded. The Kestrel will carry more weight more comfortably than the Talon, but it is heavier and bulkier.
i see thanks, i think ill get a 48 kres and a 33 for short trek.
Wich model is this 2015 o 2016?
This is the 2016 model, which is on closeout at the moment. The newest version of the Kestrel is this year's model www.backcountryedge.com/osprey-kestrel-48-2019.html?.com&X-iHAg55yOU
. Thanks for posting!
Can you do a review of the kestrel 58? Thanks great video
The Kestrel 48 is the largest available pack in that series.
Hi Backcountry! Does the 2018 model still have the large outside zip pocket by the left water bottle holder?
Good news! The zipper access into the main body is the same on the new model!
Backcountry Edge Sorry for the confusion - I was referring to the pocket found at 5:15, not the access zipper.
Hi Hudak,
Just checked, that extra internal zip pocket is still there on the Kestral 48 (2018).
Outstanding! Thank you very much for checking and responding. I really appreciate it!
How about kestrel 48L vs atmos 50L ag? Which one more durable and suitable for 3 days hiking?
These packs will have similar durability because their fabric is nearly equal. You'll find that the Atmos has a much more advanced suspension system and design, so it will likely be more comfortable, more durable, and provide a better experience overall. Thanks for watching!
Excelente, gracias por la información.
Does anybody know the max Carry weight
Osprey lists it at 35 lbs
Does anyone know if this pack could comfortably fit a small 13' laptop? Maybe in the hydration pack sleeve?
Sorry if this is too late - but yes, it would comfortably fit a laptop.
please tell me which backpack is better -
Osprey Kestrel 48 or 68 liters?
if you don't spend more than 3 days in the wilderness, the 48 litres should suffice.
Ясно. Спасибо, Оби Ван!
Does this pack pass as a carry-on? Great review :)
This pack's dimensions come in around 28 x 15 x 16 which exceeds most domestic carry-on restrictions. Consider your airline's regulations in order to determine whether or not this pack will work for your travels. Thanks for watching!
That’s true but the back panel is really only around 22.5-23 inches. So just barely over size for a carry on. When measured against my rolling carry on, it isn’t any longer really
Which is better to take Osprey Kestrel 48 or Talon 44?
These packs vary greatly, so it depends on your intended use. The
Kestrel is designed as a do-it-all pack with more robust fabrics and
framing. It also has more features than what you'll find on the Talon
packs. The Talon is designed to be more lightweight and minimal. It
won't hold as much weight and is stripped down in comparison to the
Kestrel. Finally, the Kestrel includes a rain cover and the Talon does
not.
Darf ich fragen was das für eine schöne Jacke ist?
Luke is wearing the Ghost Whisperer Jacket by Mountian Hardwear. Danke fürs zuschauen.
is the upper pocket removable?
The lid of the kestrel is fixed, it is not designed to be taken off.
what jacket are you using?
In this video, Luke is wearing a Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer. Thanks for watching!
Is this the new or old version ?
+TRACY SAMPS The Kestrel highlighted in this video is the 2016 version.
Is this a S/M or M/L?
Luke is demonstrating the M/L pack, which fits users with torsos measuring 19"-23". For torsos 16"-20", the S/M would be a better fit.
Hi, how tall is the presentor? I'm 5'7 and is wondering if the bag might look very big for me.. thanks!
Thanks for your question. Luke is around 6'1" tall. Keep in mind the Kestrel does come in sizes and those sizes depend on the torso size of the user, not the height.
Are you sure that it is a Backpack and not a Rucksack?
Wich is the difference between backpack and rucsack?
su canal es muy bueno
Bro… that coat…
Den hätte ich am liebsten :(