When it comes to hitting the trails, conquering multi-day routes, or heading into the backcountry, your backpack is arguably your most important piece of gear. A great pack needs to carry your load comfortably, hold up across thousands of kilometres of rough terrain, and be thoughtfully designed so you can access everything you need, when you need it.
That's exactly why Osprey has earned a reputation as the gold standard in outdoor gear — and why we're proud to stock their range at PAST Outdoors. Whether you're planning your first overnight adventure or you're a seasoned thru-hiker looking to upgrade, our range of Osprey backpacks has you covered. Read on to discover which pack is right for you.
If you're just getting started on your outdoor journey, check out our hiking for beginners guide for everything you need to know before hitting the trail.
Why Osprey backpacks are the ultimate choice for adventurers
What makes Osprey the leader in hiking backpacks?
Not all hiking backpacks are created equal. Osprey has been designing and building packs since 1974, and in that time they've refined their craft into something genuinely exceptional. Every pack in the Osprey lineup is engineered with the hiker in mind — from the ventilated back panels that keep you cool on the climb, to the precision-moulded hipbelts that transfer load directly to your hips where it belongs.
Osprey Aether Plus 85: the ultimate backpack camping workhorse
For those who live for long-haul expeditions and multi-night camping trips, the Osprey Aether Plus 85 is in a league of its own. With 85 litres of carrying capacity, this pack is designed for extended adventures where you need to carry everything — tent, sleeping system, food, water, and all your layers.
The Aether Plus features Osprey's AirSpeed suspended mesh back panel, which creates a generous gap between your back and the pack to maximise ventilation on tough climbs. The Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt allows you to fine-tune the fit mid-hike, and the integrated LightWire peripheral frame keeps the load close to your body for improved balance.
The features of the Osprey Aether Plus 85+
- Massive 85L capacity
- AirSpeed back panel
- Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt
- Dedicated sleeping bag compartment
- LightWire peripheral frame
It also comes equipped with a sleeping bag compartment with a removable divider, a large top lid with dual pockets, and easy-access side pockets for water bottles and snacks. If you're serious about backpacks camping across Australia's great wilderness areas — from the Overland Track to the Larapinta Trail — the Aether Plus 85 is hard to go past.
Planning a multi-day expedition? Don't miss our detailed guide on what to pack for a multi-day hike to make sure you've got everything covered.
Osprey Exos: ultralight hiking backpacks for the fast and light crowd
Speed matters. And for hikers who want to cover serious ground without being weighed down, the Osprey Exos delivers an exceptional ultralight experience without compromising on comfort or performance.
Features of the Osprey Exos:
- Ultralight construction
- ExoForm 3D-moulded back panel
- Dual hipbelt pockets
- Front stash pocket
The Exos has long been celebrated as one of the best ultralight hiking backpacks on the market. Its ExoForm back panel and hipbelt use a 3D-moulded open-air mesh that offers impressive ventilation and a close, ergonomic fit. Despite its featherweight construction, the Exos doesn't skimp on features — you'll find a front stash pocket, dual hipbelt pockets, and a top lid for easy access to trail essentials.
Available in multiple sizes, the Exos is ideal for weekend walkers and fast-packing enthusiasts alike. Pair it with the right gear choices and you'll be flying down the trail in comfort. It's one of our most popular great hiking backpacks for a reason.
Features of the Osprey Exos:
-
Ultralight construction
- ExoForm 3D-moulded back panel
- Dual hipbelt pockets
- Front stash pocket
Osprey Eja: great hiking backpacks designed for women
The Osprey Eja is the women's-specific counterpart to the Exos, and it's every bit as impressive. Engineered with a narrower shoulder harness, a shorter torso length, and a re-shaped hipbelt to suit the female form, the Eja delivers a genuinely tailored fit that makes a real difference on longer days out.
Like the Exos, the Eja uses the ExoForm back panel for superior ventilation, keeping you cool and comfortable even on warm Australian summer days. It's lightweight without feeling fragile, and the thoughtful organisation features mean everything has its place.
For women who've previously struggled to find hiking backpacks that truly fit well, the Eja is something of a revelation. It's proof that great performance and great fit don't have to be a compromise.
"Highly recommended. Excellent customer service, provided help with purchasing Osprey Eja 58 Womens Hiking pack. 5 stars"
- Google Review from Jane Taylor
Osprey Farpoint 40: versatile backpacks camping and travel
Not every adventure requires a full expedition pack. For those who prefer to travel light — whether heading out on a weekend camping trip or catching a flight to a remote trailhead — the Osprey Farpoint 40 is the perfect all-rounder.
The Osprey Farpoint 40L Travel Pack is designed to work as both a carry-on travel bag and a capable hiking daypack. Its lockable zippers, padded laptop sleeve, and panel-loading design make it equally at home in an airport as it is on the trail. The harness and hipbelt stow away neatly behind a zippered panel, transforming the pack into a sleek, luggage-friendly profile in seconds.
With 40 litres of space and smart organisation throughout, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is one of the most versatile packs in the range — ideal for travellers who want one bag that does it all. It's a brilliant choice for backpacks camping weekenders who value flexibility and functionality.
Heading out on a camping trip? Make sure you've got everything sorted with our ultimate camping gear checklist before you leave.
Choosing the right Osprey backpack for your adventure
With so many Osprey backpacks to choose from, it can be tricky to know where to start. Here are a few quick pointers to help you find the right fit:
Multi-day hikes and extended camping: Go for the Aether Plus 85 if you need maximum capacity and comfort over multiple nights.
Fast packing and weekend hikes: The Exos or Eja (for women) offer an unbeatable ultralight experience.
Travel and short trips: The Osprey Farpoint 40 is your go-to for versatile, carry-on-friendly adventures.
For more detail on choosing the right daypack or overnight pack, check out our guide to day pack hiking backpack bags in Australia.
And don't forget to be prepared for the unexpected — download our free first aid checklist for hikers and campers before your next trip.
Why shop for Osprey backpacks at PAST Outdoors?
At PAST Outdoors, we're not just a gear shop — we're a team of passionate outdoor enthusiasts who believe that quality equipment opens the door to life-changing adventures. We've spent years carefully curating our range to include only the gear we'd genuinely trust on our own expeditions, and Osprey sits right at the heart of that.
"Great bag... after great advice... went to PAST Outdoors and the direction, advice and passion was outstanding. I'll be back again for more." - Google Review from Chad Firth
Our customers consistently tell us that the combination of Osprey's legendary quality and our knowledgeable, friendly service makes shopping with us a genuinely great experience. We've helped thousands of Australians find their perfect pack — from first-time hikers nervous about their first overnight, to experienced adventurers gearing up for extended backcountry routes.
Dave Parker, our CEO & Founder on a recent multi-day hike in Canterbury, New Zealand.
We stock authentic Osprey backpacks backed by the brand's All Mighty Guarantee, and our team is always on hand to help you find the right fit, the right size, and the right configuration for your next adventure.
Ready to find your perfect pack? Browse our full range of great hiking backpacks and backpacks camping gear online at PAST Outdoors today — and take the first step towards your next great Australian adventure.
