Osprey vs Patagonia
Two of the best-selling travel packs, both with legendary warranties. The Farpoint is the structured travel specialist. The Black Hole is the rugged adventure companion. Both will serve you for years. Heres how to choose.
The Contenders
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
Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L
900D Recycled Polyester TPU-film laminate
Vietnam
Ironclad Guarantee (Lifetime)
The indestructible duffel-style pack. TPU-laminated fabric is highly water-resistant and easy to clean. Simple clamshell design with minimal organization. Backed by Patagonias famous Ironclad Guarantee.
- Ironclad Guarantee covers repairs forever
- Highly water-resistant TPU fabric
- Lightweight at 1.7 lbs
- Made from recycled materials
- Limited organization options
- Basic shoulder straps
- Clamshell not ideal for frequent access
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Factor | Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack | Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warranty | All Mighty Guarantee | Ironclad Guarantee | |
| Capacity | 40L | 32L | A |
| Suspension System | Full harness with hip belt | Basic padded straps | A |
| Weight | 3.5 lbs | 1.7 lbs | B |
| Water Resistance | Water-resistant | Highly water-resistant (TPU) | B |
| Organization | Good (multiple pockets) | Basic (large main compartment) | A |
| Durability | 8/10 | 8/10 | |
| Price | ~$185 | ~$140 | B |
Warranty
Both offer exceptional lifetime warranties. Osprey and Patagonia are known for honoring repairs.
Capacity
Farpoint is larger and better for multi-week travel. Black Hole is more versatile for daily use.
Suspension System
Farpoint has proper backpack suspension. Black Hole has simple shoulder straps - fine for light loads.
Weight
Black Hole is half the weight - significant for one-bag travel.
Water Resistance
Black Hole TPU-laminated fabric is nearly waterproof. Farpoint needs a rain cover in heavy rain.
Organization
Farpoint has dedicated laptop sleeve, front panel, and hip belt pockets. Black Hole is more of a duffel-style.
Durability
Both are durable for their weight class. Farpoint fabric is thinner but has warranty. Black Hole TPU is tough.
Price
Black Hole is cheaper. Better value for casual travelers.
The Verdict
Both are excellent travel packs with lifetime warranties. Farpoint is the better dedicated travel pack. Black Hole is more versatile and better value.
Choose Osprey Farpoint if you do longer trips (2+ weeks), want proper backpack suspension, or need more organization.
Choose Patagonia Black Hole if you value low weight, want better weather resistance, prefer a simpler pack, or want to save $45.
For serious travel: Farpoint. For versatile adventure use: Black Hole. Both are BIFL choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for one-bag travel?
Farpoint if you pack a lot. Black Hole if you pack light. The Black Holes 32L works for minimalist travelers; Farpoints 40L handles more.
Can I use Black Hole as a hiking pack?
For light day hikes, yes. For serious hiking with heavy loads, no - the shoulder straps arent designed for it. Farpoint is better for trail use.
Which holds up better to airline abuse?
Black Hole. The TPU fabric is nearly indestructible and hides scuffs. Farpoints lighter nylon shows wear faster.
Is the Farpoint worth the extra $45?
If you need the capacity and suspension, yes. If youre a minimalist traveler, the Black Hole is better value.