osprey

Osprey Kestrel and Kyte Series are introduced as climbing, mountaineering and hiking backpacks for short to medium lengths.

Kestrel is the men's counterpart to women's Kyte Series.

There are Kyte backpacks with 36, 46 and 66 liters of volumes with Osprey Kyte 66 being available in select non-US markets only. 

Harness

Osprey Kyte 36 is meant to fit to a woman's body. All the angles, curves, thicknesses, length, tapers etc of straps, belt, load lifters and overall backpanel are intended to fulfill that specific fit.

Apart from the overall fit in terms of female anatomy, you can adjust the harness further for customized fit for your torso length.

First, you choose the right size for you.

Two sizes are available: WXS/S and WS/M (W stands for women). They're meant to correspond to your torso length. I'll mention how to choose the right size for your height later in Size, Volume, Weight and Dimensions section.

Second, you move the adjustable harness up and down as you see in below video, and have  the pack fit your specific torso.

I honestly can't recommend getting a pack with adjustable harness enough. Even a slightest uncomfort while wearing the pack will feel 100x worse at the end of the day.

That's why it increases the uses of the backpack enormously by allowing you walk much longer distances while staying very comfortable.

Suspension

Osprey Kyte Series are equipped with AirScape suspension system which is one of the latest technologies of Osprey[1].

The lightweight structure of AirScape suspension consists of an aluminum peripheral frame with a foam framesheet.

First purpose of this structure is to ensure the optimal weight distribution. As Wildbackpacker explained [2], optimal weight distribution is achieved by conveying the majority of the weight to your hips rather than your torso.

Because, as Library of Congress stated in 2017 [3], hip muscles (gluteus) are the largest muscles in the human body [3].

Its second purpose of the structure is to deliver stability by pulling the pack weight very close to your back and prevent the pack from wobbling.

Besides weight distribution, AirScape technology provides plenty of ventilation and comfort through its design.

Ultimately, you're kept more comfortable, less exhausted and less sweaty.

Shoulder Straps

Shoulder straps are thick and well padded.

Inner seams are extended not only to the sides but also the outer surface of the straps (shown in blue boxes below).

This way it's guaranteed that the straps won't be chafing your shoulders in any motion.

Also, like I mentioned before, harness is fully adjustable:

Load lifters are attached to the pack at the perfect height to meet the ideal 45-60 degree angle [4].

In addition, an emergency whistle is built-in the sternum strap buckle.

Hip Belt

Pockets: There are 2 hip belt pockets on each side

Smaller women specific belt ensure the seamless fit and comfort.

Just like straps, hip belt is adjustable as well.

Storage

Compartments

Main compartment

Pockets: No internal pocket

Osprey Kyte 36 is an internal frame, traditional top loading backpack.

Top opening is very wide:

The most popular feature of this pack is the full length side access to the main and sleeping bag compartments.

We all know the struggle when we need an item inside the center of the backpack.

Sometimes, our accesses from top and bottom don't help us much. So we're made to unpack, get the item, and repack.

And most of the time - regardless of wherever you are and whatever you're doing - it's inconvenient because of obvious reasons.

Osprey Kyte 36 solves this problem by adding a side access to inner compartments - and ultimately make your entire equipment easily accessible.

Sleeping bag compartment

Pockets: No internal pocket

As usual, sleeping bag compartment is at the bottom of the pack.

It's separated from the main compartment with a removable divider. Removing the divider and merging two compartments help when you're planning to carry long and bulky items such as tent poles.

Its volume is larger than regular size sleeping bags, so you can store additional items nearby when the divider isn't removed.

You can also remove the straps:

Top lid

Pockets: 1 external, 1 internal pocket

Top lid isn't floating type. It means that you can't shift it up or down according to your preference. Also you can't remove it.

Honestly, since Kyte 36 is small-to-medium size and quite light, I think floating top lid would be a waste. Upon a few compression strap adjustments you can even use it as a daypack.

As for the pockets, the external zippered pocket is larger and opens to the backside: 

A smaller mesh pocket emerges beneath the lid when it's lifted:

Front surface

Pockets: 1 mesh pouch

My biggest gripe with this pack is the lack of a side/front zippered pocket.

The mesh pouch is very suitable for wet, smelly and dirty items although it'd make more sense having a zippered pocket to have some specific items more readily available.

It's also common to carry maps, journals or books inside these pouches.

Side

Pockets: 2 mesh water bottle holders

As I mentioned earlier in the storage section, there is a side access to the main compartment.

Other than that there are two mesh water bottle holders at each side at the bottom.

As you can see the vertical installment option is lacking - as it's the case with all Kestrel/Kyte products. Water bottle holders are too high to access while you're wearing the pack so you're going to have to take off the pack first.

Dual upper and lower side compression straps are available.

Using compression straps, you can:

1. Compress the load and obtain more stability. You can do this width-wise or depth-wise since the compression straps are reversible:

2. Collaborate them with mesh water bottle holders and utilize them to attach extra gear outside the pack:

3. Shrink the pack to smaller sizes to use as a daypack.

Size, Volume, Weight and Dimensions

Kyte 36 is available in WXS/S and WS/M size options:

Besides traveling, Kyte 36 is designed to cover lots of outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, day hikes, climbing and mountaineering all together, hence the superior tool attachment capability. 

The only activity I wouldn't feel confident with this pack would probably be going on hiking/camping trips that last longer than nearly 3 days, but that's just because of its volume. 

That means if you're an essentialist and 34-36 liters of volume would perfectly suffice, you have nothing else to worry.

You can determine your size using Osprey’s very own Size & Fit article [5].

I'm embedding the chart below as well in case you already know your torso length.

Once you evaluate your torso length you can find Kyte Series at 9th row.

Although I recommend evaluating your torso length, here is a rule of thumb.

McGill explained that [6] on average, a 5'2" woman will have 15" of torso and a 5'6" woman will have 17" of torso. 

If both sizes are compatible with your torso length I recommend getting the larger pack.

Carry-on Status

You should check the regulation of your specific airlines as there is no federal standardization.

TravelMadeSimple listed[8] carry on rules of 170+ airlines. It's best to check the carry-on rules of the airlines that you're likely to use often.

Durability

Although I've never had any problems with their packs, it's good to know that Osprey offers offers All Mighty Guarantee[9]. 

Other

Raincover

A raincover is attached at the bottom of Kyte 36. It's included in the sale.

Like I said, Osprey Kyte 36 is a do-it-all backpack.

When it's warm, highly ventilated backpanel keeps you cool.

When it's rainy or snowy, your backpack and items are kept dry through raincover.

What's more, if you're not going to need it, you can always detach it easily.

Hydration Pouch

Hydration bladder doesn't come with the pack - but the pouch.

Unlike some packs, Kyte 36 offers it externally at the back panel behind the top of shoulder straps.

#Note: The video belongs to the previous model of Kestrel 48. I'm embedding this video since the hydration pouches are identical.

There are multiple advantages of external hydration systems:

1. You don't have to unpack when you're going to refill.
2. Your equipment is protected from spillings.
3. When the pack is full up to the brim, water flow won't be restrained since the tubes and bladder outside the pack aren't affected from push.

Gear Attachments

Ice tool loops

You can attach your ice tools as illustrated below.

Trekking pole attachments

As the name implies, you can stow your trekking poles through "stow-on-the-go" attachments without having to take off the pack.

Sleeping pad straps

See the Storage section above.

Compression straps

See the Storage section above.

Daisy chains

As Hawbaker demonstrated in 2015[10], daisy chains can be utilized to attach extra gear.

Conclusion

Osprey Kyte 36 | Price not available is a women's do-it-all, lightweight backpack.

Except 3+ days of hiking/camping trips, this pack performs very well during almost anything because of its high tool attachment capability, weather adaptability, exceptional comfort and decent stability.

Current 2019 model (recommended):

258 Reviews

Osprey Kyte 36 Women's Hiking Backpack

• Breathable AirScape ridged foam backpanel with...
• Integrated removable raincover
• Zippered sleeping bag compartment with floating...
• Front panel hybrid shove-it pocket
• Stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment

Buy on Amazon

Previous 2016 model:

54 Reviews

Osprey Packs Women's Kyte 36 Backpack

• Osprey's stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment...
• An integrated and removable rain cover protects...
• An external reservoir sleeve is located behind the...
• The zippered sleeping bag compartment provides...
• Dual upper side compression straps stabilize loads...

Buy on Amazon

References

1. Suspension Technology, Osprey. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/sa/en/pack-design-technology/suspension
2. Contributors of Wildbackpacker.com. How to Pack a Backpack. Retrieved from http://www.wildbackpacker.com/backpacking-gear/backpacks/how-to-pack-a-backpack/
3. Library of Congress. Muscles. Retrieved from https://www.loc.gov/rr/scitech/mysteries/muscles.html
4. The Magazine of Wilderness Travel, Backpacker. 1989, March. Pack Strap Anatomy, p.31. Retrieved from  https://books.google.com.tr/books?id=7-IDAAAAMBAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false
5. Osprey. Size & Fit. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/ca/en/fitting-learning/size-fit 
6. McGill, L. How to Tell if I Have a Long or Short Torso, Healthfully.com. Retrieved from https://healthfully.com/tell-long-short-torso-8251478.html
7. Traveling Light, REI. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/traveling-light.html
8. Carry-on Size Chart, 170+ Airlines, Travel-made-simple.com. Retrieved from https://travel-made-simple.com/carry-on-size-chart/
9. Osprey: All Might Guarantee. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/cl/en/customer-support/all-mighty-guarantee
10. Hawbaker, A. (2015, July). TrailTime Tips: Daisy Chain Quick Ties. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacks-adjusting-fit.html
11. Osprey Europe Women's Hiking Backpacks: Kyte 36. Retrieved from https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/eu_en/kyte-36-a
12. Osprey US Women's Backpacking Backpacks: Kyte 36. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/kyte-36-KYTE36.html
13. Osprey Kestrel/Kyte Series Manual. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/user_manuals/OM_KestrelKyte_S16_ENG.pdf

Attention! Kyte 46 is updated in 2019!

So now, we have 3 Kyte 46 packs in the market:

Harness

Osprey Kyte Series are the women's specific counterparts to men's Osprey Kestrel Series. Kyte Series are identical to Kestrel Series except the harness is designed to fit specifically a woman's body.

Thicknesses, paddings, angles, widths, curves, lengths, connections etc. of straps, load lifters, hip belts etc. are all intended to provide the perfect fit for a woman. What's more it has XS/S and S/M size options which allows you to customize the fit further.

Osprey's lightweight peripheral frame surrounding the suspension keeps the pack very light at only 3.55 pounds (for larger S/M size). It's designed to provide rigidity and accurate weight distribution.

Suspension

Osprey introduced the AirScape suspension technology[1] with Kyte (and, of course, Kestrel) Series. 

AirScape technology spans from the very top of the back panel to the bottom. It's intended to provide;

1. Comfort through its ample padding and thickness.
2. Ventilation through the blank corridors (colored white) and striped ridged padding structure.
3. Accurate weight distribution[2] through withdrawing the pack close to your back and incorporating your largest muscle groups; which are hip muscles as Joseph expained in 2013[3].

Ample mesh and countoured foam together increase the breathability and keep you cooler.

Shoulder Straps

Straps are edgeless - meaning the seams at the backside of straps cover the sides and reach to the front:

Like I mentioned before, the harness is fully adjustable:

How to adjust it?

1. Loosen the load lifters and straps completely. 
2. See the arrow icon at the back panel (above).
3. Pull apart the hook-and-loop closure by sliding a hand between back panel and shoulder harness.
4. Move the shoulder harness up and down so that it corresponds to your torso length properly.
5. Press down on the ridged foam back panel firmly to re-engage and lock hook-and-loop closure.

Load lifters are attached to the pack at the perfect height to meet the ideal 45-60 degree angle [4]. 

In addition, an emergency whistle is built-in the sternum strap buckle.

Hip Belt

Pockets: There are 2 hip belt pockets on each side

Belt is smaller compared to other packs since it's women's specific.

Just like straps, hip belt fits perfectly as well and provides decent comfort. But, here's what I don't like about them: Unlike other Osprey packs like Aura and Ariel, Kyte 46 hip belt pockets are smaller for some of larger smartphones.

Updated in 2019: Hip belt pockets are now larger and can fit any smartphone.

Storage

Compartments

Main compartment

Pockets: No internal pocket

Top lid is buckled to the front surface of the pack and under that the top entrance of main compartment is accessed.

Top entrance of Kyte 46 is very wide. It also contains an internal red compression strap when opened. You can compress and stabilize the load using internal compression strap at the entrance of Kyte 46 and ultimately increase comfort by preventing the pack wobbling at your back.

What distinguishes Kyte 46 from others is the full length side access to the main and sleeping bag compartments at the right hand side of the pack.

The already advanced versatility because of convenient volume, tool attachments and rich features is taken one step further making Kyte 46 very convenient for a multitude of adventures.

We all know the struggle when you desperately need an item inside the main compartment but it just isn't optimal to dig all the way to the center.

It can happen during a day hike, or while traveling, waiting in the airport/airline security check, or a rainy outdoor activity - even if you stored your frequently used items inside the external pockets.

And most of the time you don't want to waste your time and energy on unpacking all the items, getting the item you're looking for and then refilling the pack.

With Osprey Kyte and Kestrel Series this frustration is cleared away once and for all.

Top and bottom items inside the main compartment are already available with bottom (sleeping bag compartment) and top entrances.

Through side zippered access now you gain access all the items in your pack. They all become readily available. 

Sleeping bag compartment

Pockets: No internal pocket

There is a sleeping bag compartment opening from the front bottom of the pack. It's separated from the main compartment by a divider. But you can remove it if you'd like to merge both compartments and utilize the total space for storing long and bulky items like tent poles.

Sleeping bag compartment offers plenty of space. If you use a regular size sleeping bag you'll probably have additional space nearby.

In that case, I recommend storing lightweight, elastic, night time items such as sleeping pad, towel or nightwears because 

1. You make use of the extra space, 
2. Light items at the bottom don't pull your shoulders down uncomfortably, 
3. Elastic items at the bottom protect your more bulky inner items from impacts,
4.  The solid base they form don't change throughout the day since they aren't used until camping.

If you'd like even more space inside, you can easily strap your pad externally with sleeping pad straps.

You can also remove them anytime:

Top lid

Pockets: 1 external, 1 internal pocket

You can't tailor the top lid of Kyte 46 to your needs (meaning that it's not a floating type). Whether you have large or small amount of load, the vertical location of the top lid will stay fixed. 

Floating types are usually benefited by ultralight hikers - so if you're not one of them I don't think it's going to be a problem. 

Some prefer them for their long packs to turn them into carry-on friendly - but luckily Kyte 46 is already carry-on friendly.

External zippered pocket that opens to the backside offers plenty of space.

When unbuckled, an internal zippered mesh pocket is accessed underside the top lid. It's smaller than external pocket and contains a keyclip.

Front surface

Pockets: 1 mesh pouch

Osprey Kyte 46 lacks an enclosed front pocket - which is probably the only problem of this pack.

The mesh pouch outside isn't attached to the front surface with a velcro or anything else so it's inconvenient to store valuable items there.

Instead, this kind of pouches can be utilized for storing wet, smelly or dirty items during outdoor activities.

Or you can put some papers like maps, journals or notebooks while traveling.

This pouch is also updated in 2019 and now is also uses a nylon instead of being only mesh - but it was already working fine, so I don't see this as a major update.

Side

Pockets: 1 vertical side zippered pocket, 2 mesh water bottle holders

I did talk about the side zipper that opens to the main compartment.

At the other side of the pack, there is a vertical side zippered pocket.

Side water bottle holder mesh pockets are quite deep and only allow vertical installment. Because of the lack of a horizontal installment you can't use these pockets while wearing the pack (e.g on the go) - which is a major downside for this pack. I don't see why Osprey didn't offer this feature, since they did with their Aura and Ariel models.

Updated in 2019: Side mesh water bottle holders do offer side access now!

There are lower and upper compression straps (4 at total) at both sides.

There are 2 more functions of reversible compression straps;

1. You can collaborate the top compression strap with side mesh pockets to attach long and sturdy gear externally (such as tent poles):

2. You can reverse them as the name implies and compress the pack width-wise at the front.

Size, Volume, Weight and Dimensions

Osprey Kyte 46 comes with XS/S and S/M options. The smaller XS/S is 2 liters smaller and 2 inches shorter compared to the larger size:

44-46 liters of volume is the sweetest spot for a backpack if you want it to cover a variety of activities.

Except extended camping trips such as 5+ days, you can use Kyte 46 during any activity including camping, hiking, traveling (both as carry-on and check in), day hikes, overnight trips, multiday hikes, climbing, mountaineering etc.

Using Osprey’s very own Size & Fit article [5], you can determine which size is for you. I'm embedding the chart below.

Find Kyte at 9th row once you figure your torso length.

McGill stated that[6] on average, a 5'2" woman will have 15" of torso and a 5'6" woman will have 17" of torso. If your torso length is applicable to both sizes I recommend getting the larger pack to utilize the extra 2 liters of space.

Carry-on Status

Most airlines allow up to 45 linear inches (height + width + depth)[7] although there isn't a federal standard. 

I strongly recommend checking with your airlines to comply with their recent rules.

Although no-one can guarantee you, my guess is that Kyte 46 would be allowed around 70% of the time as a carry-on pack since usually it's down to individual staff. 

I have a friend who used different airlines in US and Europe and she says that her Kyte 46 was always allowed as carry-on. Also using compression straps, you can shrink the pack further and decrease its dimensions/volume if it's not filled up to the brim.

Durability

Osprey is famous for its extremely durable packs and great customer service. It offers All Mighty Guarantee[9]. Although I never had any problems with their packs, it's good to know that you're 100% safe.

Other

Raincover

Integrated raincover is attached to the pack and comes out from its own zippered pocket at the bottom.

Raincover adds to the versatility of Kyte 46. Its AirScape back panel keeps you cool when it's warm and raincover keeps your items and pack dry when it's rainy.

Hydration

There is a hydration pouch outside at the backside of the pack that allows up to 3 liters of hydration bladders. Hydration bladder does NOT come with the pack.

Having the pouch outside the pack protects your items against spilling. What's more spilled water is canalized and disposed at the very bottom of the pack through a hole.

Another advantage of having the hydration bladder outside the pack is the convenience when replenishing.

If you had it inside, you'd have to unpack first when you run out of water and then refill and repack.

Gear Attachments

Ice tool loops

Ice tool loops and bungie tie offs make attaching ice tools possible.

Trekking pole attachments

You can stow your trekking poles while wearing the pack through stow-on-the-go attachments.

Sleeping pad straps

See the Storage section above.

Compression straps

See the Storage section above.

Daisy chains

Daisy chains can be utilized to attach extra gear[10].

Conclusion

Osprey Kyte 46 is a women's backpack that's designed to be used during a multitude of adventures, and is updated in 2019.

Its versatility results from;

1. Volume: S/M and XS/S sizes offer 46 and 44 Liters of volumes respectively. It stays carry-on friendly most of the time while offering a huge amount of volume where you can use during traveling or outdoor activities at the same time.
2. Gear Storage: Through a total of 10 tool attachments, this pack fills the bill for a variety of activities such as traveling, hiking, camping, mountaineering and climbing - all at the same time. 
3. Side Access: There's a zippered side pocket from top to very bottom which enables extra access to main and sleeping bag compartments making all your inner items readily available.

Unless you're planning very long trips (4+ days), I really can't recommend this pack enough.

33 Reviews

Osprey Kyte 46 Women's Backpacking Backpack

• Breathable AirScape ridged foam backpanel with...
• External reservoir sleeve accommodates up to a 3L...
• Integrated removable raincover and zippered...
• Zippered sleeping bag compartment with floating...
• Fixed top lid with external zippered pocket and...

Buy on Amazon

We hope this review was helpful for finding out whether the new Kyte 46 is for your needs or not. Please comment below to provide feedback or ask questions and I'm happy to respond.

Thank you for reading and happy travels/trails!

References

1. Suspension Technology, Osprey. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/sa/en/pack-design-technology/suspension
2. Clark, A. How to Pack and Hoist a Backpack, REI. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/loading-backpack.html
3. Joseph, E. M. (2013, December). Know the body: muscle, bone, and palpation essentials. Elsevier Health Sciences, p. 346
4. The Magazine of Wilderness Travel, Backpacker. 1989, March. Pack Strap Anatomy, p.31. Retrieved from  https://books.google.com.tr/books?id=7-IDAAAAMBAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false
5. Osprey. Size & Fit. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/ca/en/fitting-learning/size-fit 
6. McGill, L. How to Tell if I Have a Long or Short Torso, Healthfully.com. Retrieved from https://healthfully.com/tell-long-short-torso-8251478.html
7. Traveling Light, REI. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/traveling-light.html
8. Carry-on Size Chart, 170+ Airlines, Travel-made-simple.com. Retrieved from https://travel-made-simple.com/carry-on-size-chart/
9. Osprey: All Might Guarantee. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/cl/en/customer-support/all-mighty-guarantee
10. Hawbaker, A. (2015, July). TrailTime Tips: Daisy Chain Quick Ties. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacks-adjusting-fit.html
11. Osprey Europe Women's Hiking Backpacks: Kyte 46. Retrieved from https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/dk_en/kyte-46-2019
12. Osprey US Women's Backpacking Backpacks: Kyte 46. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/kyte-46-KYTE46S19_134.html
13. Osprey Kestrel/Kyte Series Manual. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/user_manuals/OM_KestrelKyte_S19_ENG.pdf

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

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). 

Osprey Kestrel 48 is a lightweight, rain cover integrated men's backpack with two size options. 

Distinctive side zipper that opens to main compartment makes accessing the items in the middle very easy. 

Harness is fully adjustable to correspond different heights with decent padding and stiffness. 

I'll get to its bolts and nuts, but let me give you a brief summary first. 

In short, Kestrel 48 would be a great match for weekend hiking & camping trips, although I'd also consider getting Stratos 50 [read my review]. 

I explained my thoughts about Stratos 50 vs Kestrel 48 as well, but Kestrel 48 is also always a solid choice, and they're much more alike than they're different.

Attention! Kestrel 48 is updated in 2019!

So now, we have 3 Kestrel 48 packs in the market:

Harness

Suspension

As always, I prefer to begin with the suspension and overall feel of the pack.

AirScape back panel is upgraded with new model.

Previous 2016 model:

Current 2019 model:

Ultimately perfect fit and comfort is achieved which isn't very common with medium-large packs like this.

Previous 2016 model:

Current 2019 model:

Current 2019 model:

One of my favorite things about this pack is that it provides a full length side access to the main and sleeping bag compartments at the right hand side of the pack.

Current 2019 model:

Top lid

Pockets: 1 external, 1 internal pocket

Top lid doesn't float. Meaning that you can't remove it or shift it upwards or downwards. 

If you're an ultralighter or for some reason you'd benefit compressing the pack vertically, this can be a gripe for you.

Current 2019 model:

Current 2019 model:

Current 2019 model:

Compression straps don't intersect mesh water bottle pockets. What's more having them above aids secure tool attaching as shown in following chapters.

Front compression straps are lacking but they aren't must have since even 4 compression straps alone are enough to have the pack completely flat against your back. 

More, you can use side compression straps at the front:

Previous 2016 model:

Current 2019 model:

48 or 46 Liters of volume isn't ideal for most people hiking/camping for 3+ days.

You can evaluate your torso length at home with the help of Osprey’s very own Size & Fit article [3], and find the recommended size for your torso length according to chart below.

Find Kestrel at 6th row.

Durability

At first sight a lightweight pack seems more fragile and hence less durable - but Osprey qualifies its durable and sturdy reputation once again with this pack.

You're not going to have any problems regarding durability of this product.

What's more, Osprey always offers All Mighty Guarantee[4].

Other

Raincover

Rain fly attached to its own pocket under the sleeping bag compartment comes with the pack and included in the sale.  

Wet items can ruin your overall traveling or hiking experience a lot. It should be considered strongly especially when the pack isn't completely waterproof resistant like this pack.

It comes out of its own pocket as follows:

If you're planning extended camping trips (5+ days) with lots of long distances of walking it probably won't fill the bill due to its medium-large size and deficient suspension with heavy loads.

Current 2019 model (recommended):

SALE

662 Reviews

Osprey Kestrel 48 Men's Backpacking Backpack, Picholine...

• Fixed top lid with external zippered pocket and...
• Breathable AirScape ridged foam backpanel with...
• Dual upper reverse StraightJacket side compression...

−$38.95 $161.00

Buy on Amazon

Previous 2016 model:

148 Reviews

Osprey Kestrel 48 Backpack (Prior Season)

• Osprey's stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment...
• An integrated and removable rain cover protects...
• An external reservoir sleeve is located behind the...
• The zippered sleeping bag compartment provides...
• Side zippered access allows easy accessibility to...

Buy on Amazon

References

1. Suspension Technology, Osprey. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/sa/en/pack-design-technology/suspension
2. The Magazine of Wilderness Travel, Backpacker. 1989, March. Pack Strap Anatomy, p.31. Retrieved from  https://books.google.com.tr/books?id=7-IDAAAAMBAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false
3. Osprey. Size & Fit. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/ca/en/fitting-learning/size-fit 
4. Osprey: All Might Guarantee. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/cl/en/customer-support/all-mighty-guarantee
5. Hawbaker, A. (2015, July). TrailTime Tips: Daisy Chain Quick Ties. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacks-adjusting-fit.html
6. Some photos and information from Osprey US Men's Hiking Backpacks: Kestrel 48. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/kestrel-48-KESTREL48.html
7. Some photos and information from Osprey Europe Men's Hiking Backpacks: Kestrel 48. Retrieved from https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/eu_en/kestrel-48-a
8. Some photos and information from www.desertcart.ae. Retrieved from https://www.desertcart.ae/products/22316004-osprey-packs-kestrel-48-backpack-dragon-red-medium-large
9. Some photos and information from www.howa.com. Retrieved from http://www.howa.com.hk/outdoor/gkestrel48-osprey-kestrel-48-urban-outdoor-backpack.html?___store=english&___from_store=tchinese