Osprey Kestrel 38 vs 48

As some of you already know, I've been publishing posts around Osprey backpacks for the last 2.5 years now (find full post list at the bottom). 

One of you has asked me about Kestrel 38 vs 48, so I wanted to put together a post around it. 

• Their difference: Besides extra 10 liters volume, Kestrel 48 has a vertical zippered side pocket and an internal compression strap in addition.

Unless you'll be using your backpack for day hiking only, then I'd recommend you the Kestrel 48 (women's counterpart Kyte 46) because of its higher capacity and extra side zippered pocket. 

As you can also see in my Best Osprey Hiking Backpacks post, 38 liters MIGHT suffice for overnight camping trips, but only if you're packing ultralight gear. 

Remember, having the additional space and not needing it is always better than not having additional space but needing it!

This is why I generally recommending opting for the higher capacity option when in doubt. 

Quick Comparison

Volume

10 Liters of difference is important if,

1. You're traveling with nothing but your backpack.
2. You're going on a multiday hiking/camping trip.

In both cases I wouldn't recommend a 38 Liters pack for most people.

That said, if you aren't like most people and usually pack few items, 38 liters would perfectly suffice.

Now, you may be thinking:

• "But I'm not sure if I need that (46-48 liters) much of volume - and I'm worried about ending up not filling the pack completely and having it annoyingly wobble on my back all day long."

Actually it's not a problem. Using the red internal compression strap at the top entrance of main compartment, you can easily cinch the load down and stabilize it vertically.

What's more, you can shrink the pack from sides as well using dual upper and lower straightjacket compression straps.

• "And what about carry-on status? Are these packs allowed?"

No-one can guarantee that. Different airlines have different standards. Even the Kestrel 48 can be allowed when the maximum allowable size is supposed to be 22x14x9 inches because it's usually down to individual staff... Just like my 65 liters Deuter pack (yes, I'm serious). 

Other times, though, you'll be made check it in and pay the additional cost. That's why I always recommend you to check the carry-on regulations of your specific airlines.

Organization

Kestrel 48: 2 hip belt pockets, 2 top lid pockets, 1 vertical side pocket

Kestrel 38: 2 hip belt pockets, 2 top lid pockets

If you have a fair amount of items that you'd like to have more readily available, you'd make quite a use of this pocket - especially during outdoor activities.

My biggest gripe about Kestrel 38 is that it doesn't offer any front or side pockets.

Colors

Both packs are available in Ash Grey, Dragon Red and Jungle Green colors:

Conclusion

In addition to 10 liters of volume, Osprey Kestrel 48 has a side zipper pocket and an internal compression strap which aren't available in Osprey Kestrel 38. Other than those, they're identical.

If you don't plan on participating lots of extended outdoor trips (2+ days), you can go for Kestrel 38. If you're looking for a more versatile, do-it-all pack for both outdoor events and traveling, I'd recommend Kestrel 48.

References

1. Osprey US Men's Hiking Backpacks: Kestrel 38. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/kestrel-38-KESTREL38.html
2. Osprey Europe Men's Hiking Backpacks: Kestrel 38. Retrieved from https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/eu_en/kestrel-38-a
3. Osprey US Men's Hiking Backpacks: Kestrel 48. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/kestrel-48-KESTREL48.html
4. Osprey Europe Men's Hiking Backpacks: Kestrel 48. Retrieved from https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/eu_en/kestrel-48-a
5. Osprey Kestrel/Kyte Series Manual. Retrieved from https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/media/wysiwyg/UK_OM/OM_KestrelKyte_S16_ENG.pdf