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Osprey Exos 48

rated 5.0 of 5 stars
photo: Osprey Exos 48 overnight pack (35-49l)

Great lightweight pack for overnights, or longer, if UL-savvy.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Sturdy
  • Details that matter—lightweight compression straps, stretch-fabric pockets, adequate small pockets on waist belt and shoulder straps, removable floating lid, pole carrier loops, and more

Cons

  • Light materials not super abrasion-resistant
  • Bag is too small to contain a bear can

I purchased the Exos 48 in 2015 and use it each year on summer overnight and somewhat longer trips where I can keep the load small and light. It weighs only 2.5 lbs with the lid attached. It's not designed to carry heavy loads, but what it does carry, it carries well.

With clean lines, the pack has many features I find handy; none are superfluous. I have heard complaints about Osprey having omitted the small pockets on the waist and shoulder straps in the latest versions of the Exos, unfortunately. Lightweight and removable compression straps, stretchy back and side pockets, hydration pocket in the main bag, and an adjustable/removable top pocket. 

It's held up well with use...

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $190

Well thought out pack. Absolute improvement on previous versions.

Pros

  • This pack just keeps getting more refined and better with time.

Cons

  • With features comes weight gain.

I wish I could review this pack in detail. The fact is I'll probably never end up using it. I ended up getting another pack that is even lighter and assuming it works out, I'll not see a need to ever use this pack.

But I did want to touch on the quality of what I see. These packs are about the highest quality I have ever seen. All stitching and seams are almost as perfect as they can be. With this pack Osprey has added features that are simply well thought out. Like the removable brain.

The problem I had with the previous version seems to be corrected, a bigger hip belt clip and wider shoulder straps that should in theory help keep them secure. But in the end that is the only thing I can say because I have not actually used this pack and likely never will.

The takeaways?  Excellent quality that looks like it's only improving with time.  

Background

Many other packs through my life. This is the best I have used by far. Keep in mind though, this is made with lightweight backpacking in mind.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $179

This pack is SO light! Feels great on the back and ventilated well.

Pros

  • Weight
  • Lifetime warranty

This pack is SO light! Feels great on the back and ventilated well.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $190

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The Exos 48 replaced the Osprey Exos 46.

Specs

small medium large
Price MSRP: $200.00
Current Retail: $200.00-$240.00
Historic Range: $99.83-$240.00
Reviewers Paid: $179.00-$190.00
Load Range 20-40 lbs
Weight 2.55 lbs 2.57 lbs 2.6 lbs
Volume 2,746 cu in 2,929 cu in 3,112 cu in
Dimensions 29.13 x 15.75 x 12.6 in 31.1 x 15.75 x 12.6 7 x 15.75 x 12.6 in
Fabrics 100D High Tenacity Nylon / 100D High Tenacity Nylon Triple Check Dobby / 210D High Tenacity Nylon
Product Details from Osprey »

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