Osprey Levity 45 Hiking Backpack

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Owner:            Thomas
Used since:      2020
Tested by:        Thomas
Review by:       Thomas
Primary Use:     Lightweight hiking, up to 2-3 days

Review:
Like all my other Osprey packs, this one does not disappoint! I purchased this based on some reviews I read from people that used this for lightweight multi-day hiking. While it seem ambitious to pack all necessities for a few days into a 45l pack - assuming you have the right kit and don’t bring any unnecessary items - it can be done.

This pack is extremely light but has all the carry comfort you would want. Needless to say, in order to achieve this pack weight (approx. 800gr), Osprey has stripped everything down to the bare minimum using thinner fabrics, smaller straps and buckles, etc.

From my own use on several hikes I would say the maximum trip length this pack is suitable for is 3 days. You can fit everything in nicely but beyond that it becomes problematic for 2 reasons - space and weight. Even for 3 days I would say the weight of the full pack is not ideal.

It is most comfortable when the total weight doesn’t exceed 10kgs. When I tested it on a few 3 day trips, the pack weight was 12kgs (incl. all food and 2.5l water) and you could feel this is as much as the pack can comfortably take but it feels happier with less…

Overall - amazingly light and comfortable pack for the minimalist or day hiker. Watch out for sharp things when you put it down or tree branches on your walk as they might easily pierce the thin fabric.

Pros:
- Very light
- Very comfortable
- Good number of essential side and top pockets

Cons:
- Fabric is very thin, hence prone to getting damaged by tree branches, bushes or other sharp items out in the bush. You can avoid problems with taking care a bit.
- No integrated rain cover
- Not really a disadvantage but just a fact - most comfortable when the total weight is less than 10kg.

Manufacturer Website:
https://www.osprey.com/au/en/product/levity-45-LEVITY45_577.html