Fjallraven vs Osprey
Comparing two very different approaches to backpacks. The Kanken is a Swedish fashion icon. The Farpoint is a serious travel tool. Different sizes, different purposes, different philosophies. Heres how to choose.
The Contenders
Fjallraven Kanken Classic
Vinylon F
Vietnam
Limited (1-2 years)
The iconic Swedish schoolbag. Vinylon F fabric is water-resistant and unique. Not truly BIFL due to shorter warranty and lighter construction, but more durable than fashion packs. A stepping stone to serious packs.
- Iconic, timeless design
- Lightweight at 0.66 lbs
- Water-resistant Vinylon F
- Wide color variety
- Not truly BIFL (limited warranty)
- Very basic shoulder straps
- Small capacity at 16L
Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack
210D Nylon
Vietnam
All Mighty Guarantee (Lifetime)
The one-bag travel king. Carry-on compliant, stowaway harness, and legendary Osprey warranty. The Farpoint 40 has been the go-to for digital nomads and travel hackers for years. Light, functional, and backed by the All Mighty Guarantee.
- Legendary All Mighty Guarantee (free repairs forever)
- Carry-on size for most airlines
- Stowaway harness system
- Excellent suspension for weight
- Not the most durable fabric (210D)
- Limited organization for EDC use
- Can look lumpy when stuffed
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Factor | Fjallraven Kanken Classic | Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warranty | Limited (1-2 years) | All Mighty Guarantee (Lifetime) | B |
| Capacity | 16L | 40L | B |
| Durability | 6/10 | 8/10 | B |
| Comfort | 5/10 (basic straps) | 9/10 (full suspension) | B |
| Weight | 0.66 lbs | 3.5 lbs | A |
| Style | Iconic, fashionable | Technical, outdoor | |
| Price | ~$80 | ~$185 | A |
| BIFL Rating | Not truly BIFL | True BIFL | B |
Warranty
Osprey warranty is significantly better. Farpoint is covered for life.
Capacity
Farpoint is 2.5x larger. Kanken is for light daily carry only.
Durability
Kanken is fashionable but not BIFL-grade. Farpoint is built for travel abuse.
Comfort
Kanken straps are thin and basic. Farpoint has padded hip belt and load lifters.
Weight
Kanken is incredibly light. Farpoint is heavier due to features.
Style
Different aesthetics. Kanken is a fashion statement. Farpoint is functional.
Price
Kanken is significantly cheaper, though you get what you pay for.
BIFL Rating
Farpoint qualifies as BIFL with lifetime warranty. Kanken is good for its price but not lifetime gear.
The Verdict
These are fundamentally different products. Kanken is a stylish light-duty pack. Farpoint is a serious travel tool. Compare based on your actual needs.
Choose Kanken if you need a light daily pack, value the iconic aesthetic, carry minimal items, or want an affordable entry point.
Choose Osprey Farpoint if you travel, need to carry more than books/laptop, want lifetime warranty, or need proper load-carrying ability.
Kanken is fine for light use but not BIFL. Farpoint is a true lifetime pack. Choose based on your needs, not aesthetics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kanken worth buying?
For light daily use, yes. Its more durable than typical fashion packs. But its not a BIFL investment - expect 3-5 years of moderate use.
Can I travel with a Kanken?
For minimal travel, yes. For proper travel, no. The 16L capacity and basic straps arent designed for travel loads.
Why is Kanken so popular?
Its an iconic design with good color options and decent quality for the price. Marketing and aesthetics drive sales more than pure function.
Is there a BIFL alternative to Kanken?
Topo Designs Daypack offers similar aesthetics with better materials and lifetime warranty at ~$140.