This is a popular backpack here on the Forum, and Sierra has it for $100. This is the lowest price I have seen for this bag. Also available in black, but I like the red.
https://www.sierra.com/osprey-fairview-40-l-backpack-zircon-red~p~9ccku/?filterString=newproducts~14%2Fgear~d~4868%2Ftravel~d~9640%2F
Posted by
1614 posts
I have this bag and love it!!! Comfortable fit
Posted by
USA
948 posts
I'll admit it's tempting. I tried the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and really wanted to love it, but it just didn't fit right for me and was too slouchy looking so I ended up returning it. A friend has an Osprey and really likes it, and I love that red color, but isn't that more than a backpack should weigh? The one I sometimes use as a carryon is I think 1.85 lbs., but then again it is smaller, which is one reason I've been looking for something bigger and with a waist belt.
Posted by
OP
Bellingham, WA
1859 posts
It weighs 7 oz more than the Cotopaxi 35. It won't slump because it has 7 oz worth of structure. The harness is adjustable, so you might get a better fit, too. Sierra has a good return policy. Or you can go to your local REI and try the newer version of it.
Posted by
USA
948 posts
You make good points. I’ll be in Switzerland later this year and would prefer a backpack over my travelpro carryon since it might be easier to keep with me on trains if they’re crowded. I’ll have to give this more thought.
Posted by
anyplace picturesque
86 posts
Osprey markets the Fairview 40L to women, and, apparently to petite ones. From having tried one I believe their adverts are factual. If over 5foot7 and not petite, the waist belt can be halfway to a sternum strap LOL, and the load adjusters on the shoulder straps maxed-out and still uncomfortable. The Osprey Farpoint 40L is their men's version but IMO the better choice for taller and/or stockier women as well.
Also, the Ospreys might be my choice if I were doing some light trekking on holiday as they've a slight bit of internal framing along with the beefier harness system. But for those merely going from transport to hotel the extra 30% in weight over something like a Tomtoc Liteway 40L or 40% over an RS Classic backdoor bag might not make sense especially in light of hand-carry weight restrictions on many airlines.
Posted by
1614 posts
I've "worn" it for like a 2 hour block, off and on NYC subway, etc. I'm very curvy ,5'2" not in great shape, and am a breast cancer survivor (surgical scars). It's amazingly comfortable with all of those variables, I credit the internal frame. It also has detachable shoulder strap, excellent grab handles. The back straps can be completely zipped under a fly if you have to check it. And I can certainly offer packing advice, too. ☺️