Osprey - Stratos 24 Pack - Men's

I bought this pack after first trying and returning the Osprey Tempest because the hip belt was uncomfortable. Osprey's women's packs seem to be made for curvier women, as the hip belt is sewn on at an angle. I am slender and pretty straight through my waist and hips and this men's pack was much more comfortable for me. The pack is durable and has been perfect for my 5-7-hour day hikes. The only thing I would change is the size of the hip belt pockets-- if they were a little bigger I could fit my cell phone inside (but that's what I get for having a larger than average phone).

I've been using an Osprey full backpack for several years and found it to be very comfortable. I also liked the way mesh support kept my back cool and dry. When it came time to replace my old daypack (not an Osprey) I thought I'd try an Osprey day pack. I used it this past weekend for a hike up Wheeler Peak in Nevada and Deseret Peak in Utah. Most of the time I couldn't even tell that I was carrying anything on my back. I am completely satisfied with my Osprey packs.

I used this pack on a 5 day excursion through REI Adventures. I carried a 3L hydration bladder and usually a layer, a travel pillow, and some food.

Pros: lightweight, strong, compact. Cons: doesn't hold much, outer pouch not very functional, hip pockets not large enough. Overall I'd say this is a good pack, but if I could do over I'd probably go with something just slightly larger volume. Keep in mind I had a very specific need. I wanted a daypack that could hold 2 liters of water , hold my DSLR camera, 2nd lens, gear/filters, batteries etc, tripod and hiking poles, light jacket and some food. This worked, but just barely. I really struggled to fit my DSLR...it was very snug and not easy to get in and out. The outer pocket on the back isn't really functional (I should have taken some of the reviews more seriously). If you have the main compartment packed, the outer pocket doesn't really expand at all so you can only fit flat things in it or maybe something a 1/2 inch thick. I was hoping to pack a small rain jacket in there...no go. I ended up sliding my rain coat between the rather large space between the frame and pack sort of sideways hanging out both ends. not optimal but it worked. I probably should have returned for a larger size as soon as i got it but didn't have enough time before my trip. Since my wife doesn't have a real pack...this will become hers and I'll keep on my search. Side note: I'm a little concerned how this will hold up over time. I used this on a 5 day Yosemite trip with really only 2 long hikes and as you can see in the picture the material on the conner is starting to fray against the inner frame. If it does push through in the next few trips I will return it as that doesn't seem reasonable.

This is a great pack comfortable and an easy carry. I used it in the fall for my first adventure and it will not be my last. I used it on an overnight trek of the Three Ridges trail near Charlottesville VA. I was able to fit hammock, tarp, sleeping bag, bivy, stove and food in it with no problems, but a little planning. I went in mid-November so I also had an extra shirt pack for the colder nights. My total weight was about 13 lbs, water included. Long story short I didn't complain about the pack at all during the trip, I was very happy and comfortable.

I’ve used this pack on two trips so far and am pleased with it. The pack rides well; resting comfortably on my hips which spares my back and shoulders. It appears to be larger than it really is when viewing it in hand so use some caution there. The sizing in term of volume held is accurately represented. This is a daypack and not ideal for overnight hikes unless. You go ultra lite to a great extent. In terms of carry-on luggage, I flew Southwest and Air Canada on three different models of planes and could consistently place the pack either in the overhead bin or under the seat. Though at this time I cannot speak to durability, so far I’m happy. We’ll see how it holds up. I would buy it again.

I probably tried on 50 different packs looking for one that would work well for run commuting to work. I needed one that would hold my clothes for the day, a small lunch, small towel, and possibly shoes. This pack is the perfect size. My other concern was related to how stable the pack would be when running. It doesn't move! The frame holds tightly to my back and there are various straps available to adjust and tighten the pack load to prevent bouncing. The pack also has plenty of separate compartments for smaller items such as keys, wallet, and phone.

Bought this for a Backroads trip to Zion, Bryce, and the Grand Canyon where I needed a day pack. I have a Kestral 38 which I've taken on European trips, but was too big to use as a day pack. This worked beautifully, both for the hiking and for carrying on the plane. Large enough to carry my large DSLR, extra batteries, an extra change of clothes, a few toiletries, rain jacket, sunglasses and eyeglass cases, 2 water bottles, keys, bandanas, a Kindle, 2 dry bags, a hiking stick......and snacks. Plenty of room, but also a good support structure that made the pack very comfortable to carry regardless of how much I had in it. At one point was caught in a light rain, so got to try out the rain cover. Worked as advertised. Was easy to put on and kept the pack completely dry. My daughter was caught in a hard downpour, and while the straps got wet, the pack and its contents remained dry.

This 72 year old Mann has been blessed & dine it all but this I still absolutely the finest made daypack I have ever owned-EVER- features too numerous to mention, style & comfort and best lightweights materials ever used. Total weight is like carrying a feather on your back and handles the load with comfort on your body. Will Ben ordering 6 More for my family.

Great pack for day trips. I've used this for a few Adirondack high peak hikes and it was fantastic. Very comfortable and plenty of room for all a change of clothes, 3liters of water and lunch plus could have fit a bunch more if needed. Great venting, kept my back dry unlike my previous pack. Easily accessible pockets and great sized compartments. Overall great use of space by Osprey, would highly recommend for day packs. Staff at REI was excellent as well and extremely knowledgeable.

This bag genuinely makes me want to go on more adventures. I am a 5' woman & it still fits great. Ideal size for any day trip

I bought this pack for a week of all-day hikes carrying a 2 or 3 liter bladder, a parka, a fleece, plus small items including rain pants, a point and shoot camera and snacks. I also had poles. Along with contents including water, the pack usually weighed about 12 pounds. I had first bought and tried out a Miwok 18 and a Talon 22, and although both were about large enough to carry what I needed, I finally settled on the Stratos even though it weighs more, because its Air Speed system, straps and belt did a better job shifting the load to my hips. I didn't need any torso adjustment but that capability is available in this pack. The included rain cover in its own pouch came in handy, and I could stuff it back in wet after using, without getting other things wet. The comfortable wide hip belt adjusts by pulling straight out, which is easier than the Miwok's off-center, pull-to-the-side setup. The hip belt pocket easily held my small camera. I used the trekking pole loop pretty easily; I needed to stop walking to get it right, but did not have to remove the pack. My companion was easily able to pull down the centrally-positioned zipper on the outer pocket to get my parka or fleece out for me. I usually asked for help getting out a water bottle from the side pocket because I found it difficult to reach, although I could usually put it back by myself. I have had similar issues with most other packs. This pack would be overkill for many day hikes if rain or cold is not in the picture, but it does a very nice job for taking more gear.

suspension is great with the hip belt pockets too. However, the top pocket obstructs the water bladder opening and once the bladder is in there it practically takes up the entire bag.It also was a pain looping the bladder hose through the opening leading to the straps. It is difficult to zip the front pocket when the main compartment is moderately packed. I bought this to hike the camino and will be returning it because I couldn't fit 3 shirts, 2 pairs of shorts, sleeping liner, and a tech towel in it without it feeling cramped.

Good quality pack that is very comfortable, but make sure before you go through the hassle of buying and return. Make sure it has enough volume for you. It was very stuffed to get my day hike gear all stuffed in, even without the bladder. The Osprey bladder is designed for an over the shoulder tube port. This pack has a center tube port, which means the tube has to make an S essentially from one shoulder, then across the base of the neck, then down the other shoulder. The tube length won't be long enough for this circuitous routing.

Nice pack, but you need to be aware of some constraints. If you use the hydration sleeve, you'll be using up main compartment space. 3L and you've used a lot of space. Could use some attachment points on the bottom for sit pads, etc. Exit hole for a bladder hose is tough to find. Sternum strap could go a bit lower. Now, it's a collarbone strap. Fits good, carries a modest load well, good ventilation for your back.

Bought this for our 5 day hiking in Utah. It was perfect for the one day trips!!

When I first opened the box this pack came in, I thought it was too small for my day packing needs. I packed all the things I usually put in my old daypack and was surprised it all fit. Because of all the well designed pockets, I was able to organize it all well. The fit is perfect and it hugs my body nicely. This is my second Osprey.

I have an earlier model, son has this one which has some improvements. Been highly used and abused.

This pack fit wonderfully. Even though I'm a woman, the men's pack fit better because I'm on the tall side at 5' 9". Like other Osprey packs, this one comes with lots of pockets and compartments. I especially like the zipper pockets on the waist straps. And the internal frame gives the pack tremendous support and balance. However, this pack holds only 24 liters. I though this would be sufficient for a day pack, but because the pack is fairly tall, there is little depth in the pack. I don't think my first aid kit would fit in there. Unless all of your items are tall and thin, this pack will prove less practical for carrying much gear. I ended up switching out for another Osprey pack with much better capacity.

I have had this pack a little over a half year and used it on several trips. I took it on 6 flights and carried it on all three. It went under the seat on smaller regional flights and up above on larger planes. I was not questioned at all. I also did some extended day hikes with the pack. It is true to size in terms of holding 24 liters though when you look at it the pack appears larger. It is wide and tall but not too deep. Don't expect to pack more in it. The pack worked well for hiking as it kept weight close to my body and on steep grades and jumping from rock to rock that keep my center of gravity at a point I could easily manage. The pack wears well with no complaints about comfort. The pockets on the hip belt are a bit small but I don't rate a pack much on that issue. I am able to tie a few things on the outside and that is nice. The exit hole for a water hose is a bit hard to find as others have noticed. Again, with a little work that is not a problem that would lead me to rule this pack out. I like the pack.

Bought this a few weeks back and have used it every Saturday. Keeps all the stuff you need for a long hike handy. I tote a lot of water (yes I know not ideal) and this pack put the weight on my hips as opposed to the shoulders. The center pocket down the middle of the pack is extremely handy for quick go to items. Will be looking for Osprey to deliver equal quality and technology when I look to purchase a larger pack suited for week long treks.

This is the smallest 24L pack I have ever used. It feels much smaller, and could barely contain the limited gear I carry when heading out for a day hike. The design of the frame arches the pack and leaves little room. The pack itself is wonderful, but I am returning this one and order the next 34L version. If you are looking for carry enough for a day on the trail, look for something a bit larger.

Great light weight pack. Won't hold a ton, but that wasn't our purpose. Still can hold heavy items comfortably and without getting sweaty due to air frame. Pack fit both my husband and me. In the previous models, he would have gotten the m/l size and I would have gotten the s/m size.

I did my research and this pack delivers. A day pack with all the features of a full size backpack.

Nice pack, but fit is too small. Unfortunately, the one-size-fits-all didn't fit me. I'm 5'11" 210lbs. Even after fully adjusting the shoulder harness, I could not get the waist belt down to my hips, and the shoulder straps just didn't feel long enough. Overall, the pack felt like a shirt that was too short and too tight in the shoulders. Returning to try the Stratos 34 and the Zulu 30

I love this backpack. It gives me everything I need, lightweight, has frame, lots of storage. I have been on several long hikes (10 to 12 miles) and I have room for everything. Rainwear, bivy, water filtration, food, water, etc. Everything you need for a serious all day hike. Plus the 100% guarantee from Osprey makes this a great investment for hiking

I bought this pack for my son to use at the Boy Scout Jamboree. He loves the bag so much that he wore it everywhere he went during the 10 day event. The mess backing kept the bag off his back and well ventilated and cool. The 25 liter capacity was big enough to carry all his rain gear, lunch, and knick knacks he picked up during the day. Having a water pouch section also made hydration easy. The side pockets can even hold Nalgene bottles, which is a very important feature.

We bought this for our trip to San Francisco, Yosemite and Napa. The way this built allows for weight distribution in a way that makes the pack feel as though it's part of you. Easier to wear, very comfortable and extremely useful. It has a lot of room for stuff! So far it seems well made and durable.

First week with this pack and it is working great. Holds enough for me and my wife and has kept my back relatively dry even in humid Kauai. Great purchase.

Took this as a carry on and used as a day-pack for my trip to Thailand and it worked beautifully! Comfortable, light, and spacious!

This company gives a for real lifetime warantee. I am on my third pack, free from Osprey. True, my returns are related to some design flaws, but this is a company that learns from its mistakes. I love the latest version of the Stratos 24, with a new large outside pocket that will aid my packing. Also very pleased with the wider hip belt. The internal frame with airspace between the pack and the back is one of the best design features, making a super comfortable fit.

After two employees individually spent time helping me measure, recognize, and find the right size daypack for me, I spent a good amount of time trying on several packs. For the amount and style of what I wanted to carry and how I wanted support for my body, this was the right pack for me. I’ve since been on three hikes, ranging from 4 to 8 miles and varying elevations, and this pack has significantly decreased my back and shoulder pain during those hikes.

The Stratos 24 is the perfect pack for day hikes. Plenty of adjustments including for torso length make getting a comfortable fit possible for most. The padded hip belt keeps the weight from digging into your shoulders relentlessly for hours on the trail. The main space offers sufficient space for the essentials, including additional clothing layers, lunch/snacks, a camera, etc. Two side pockets are nice and deep for almost any sized water bottles, including 32 or 48 oz Nalgene. Smaller top pockets are great for sunscreen, bug spray, first aid kit, utility knife, flashlights, etc. Love the pockets in the hip belt also for keys, wallet, smaller maps, phones (fits my iPhone 8 w/ case although anything with bigger than a 4.5-5" probably will not fit).

Awesome. Bought for my wife and We enjoy spending a great deal of time hiking and wandering N Georgia. Requirements were hip pockets and a key hook and this thing is all that and more. Had not considered a frame pack, but what a difference it makes. This pack can twice the gear with half the hassle. Built in rain cover HUGE BONUS! Bladder compatible, easy to open pockets and the main compartment opens more then half . This thing is great.

I used this on a ten day trip to Sedona, Flagstaff, Zion National Park, and Moab, and it was pretty much flawless. I even did a bit of swimming with it in the Narrows.

I used this backpack for a 5 day cisit to Detroit. I was able to pack my essentials. The size is right, where it pushes me to rethink on what I’m packing. Ususally I tend to over pack and not use a lot of clothing, but this backpack made me think practically about what I packed and when I’d use it. This is my first real hiking backpack and was impressed with the thought what went into the design about the ergonomics and comfort.

It's a nice backpack but for this model 24L lacks of ton of space when you use a water bladder. only 3L and the space get very very limited. Nice back ventilation but I just want to sell it, I struggle so much for a day hike because of the space. I always use a water bladder I'm thinking of attaching something to have this water bladder out the bag. In this case the compression straps don't help because what you want is space!

I actually returned this pack yesterday & purchased the Mantra 36 AG. I didn’t like the Stratos 24 pack as I couldn’t fill the mesh pouch area because it was in the way of the water bladder pouch. I wore the pack for 1 hike and it felt get so I purchased the Mantra when I returned it. I felt the Mantra has a much better design for usable pouches.

I purchased this recently and have taken three hikes (including the South Rim) in Big Bend NP. Initially, the pack felt good, but I expected that once on a long hike, this would change. It didn't - over the three hikes, it was always comfortable. The only issue (not really an issue...) is that the main compartment can be really compressed when carrying 3 liters of water. However, it never crushed my sandwich. I'm good.

A novice hiker, I bought this for a trip to Glacier and the Grand Tetons. I found this pack to be perfect for a day trip with it's comfortable feel and capacity. The included rain cover came in handy as it seems like everyday there were scattered rain. The only thing I would like to see on this pack is another attachment point on the front that could hold a small camera. Highly recommended and glad I made the purchase.

This pack is really great if my husband could wear it. He’s 6’ with broad shoulders and chest, making it impossible for him to wear this pack. When he got it on it looked like he was wearing a kids pack from the front, even though the back looked like an adult pack. He can hardly wear it in a tee shirt so there is no way he’d be able to get it on over a coat or outdoor wear. It is going to be returned.

just bought this for an over night maybe 2 nights on trail in summer months. worried it wouldnt be enough room being that my other pack is a 36 liter and had room to spare i was relieved when it fits everything i need for a 1-2 day backpack trip without a tent. 10 lbs without water this is a perfect backpack for the lightweight hiker who like to stay at trail shelters in the summer months.

Bought this pack at the Issaquah, Wa store early this year. Wanted a comfortable and usable day pack that could support a sorts of day hikes. It exceeded my expectations. It supports my 1.5 liter platypus water bag, but has the pack suspension of the bigger Osprey backpacks. And is easy to carry.

It's been almost a year since I bought this pack, and not once have I regretted it. It's still in excellent condition and it's extremely comfortably. I've even put 35 pounds of sand in it and run a 6.5 mile race. Works great.

I absolutely love this pack, in fact the Stratos series is awesome. Has all the features I both wanted and needed. Now own the 24 for my day pack and the 36 for my long weekends

This is the perfect size for the hike we will be doing in August. The mules will be carrying most of our camping gear and we will only have to carry our personal stuff.

Super confy, I took it to the South Sister and for 12 miles hike I took with me my ice axe and crampons, some food, water and It was just enought for that tough hike.

I have not used it since purchase because it’s freakin hot outside, but I have a larger pack for thru hikes and needed a daypack.

Such a comfortable pack. Was not sure if i needed to spending the on a pack like this and haven't regretted it yet.

Perfect for the couple of overnight hikes we have just recently done. Also great overnight bag for quick trips

Excellent backpack for day hike or light multiday hiking.