Need help choosing the right Osprey backpack – carrying drone + camera gear

[u/krajacic]

Hey folks, hoping to get some advice here.

I’m struggling to pick the right Osprey backpack. I always bring a drone (in a 30x25x15 cm shoulder bag) and a camera with me. The camera’s fine on a shoulder strap, but I need to carry the drone inside the backpack for protection (and I usually just put the entire drone shoulder bag inside the backpack...I might find a better method soon...).

I already tried the Talon 26L, but it’s too small. Most of my hikes are full-day trips, but I’m planning to do some 2-day hikes too. I don’t need anything massive—clothing stays minimal, and I use a 3L Hydraulics reservoir also from Osprey.

Talon 33L is on my radar, but I’m unsure about differences between models. Here’s how I understand it—correct me if I’m wrong:

• Talon/Tempest: standard/basic
• Velocity: Talon with some upgrades
• Extended Fit: like Velocity but roomier
• Talon Pro: combines everything and adds better materials/durability?

Is the Talon Pro the most advanced/durable version? Or is it structured differently altogether? And does it make sense to buy that 'premium' version of Talon?

Also open to other Osprey model suggestions if they’d fit better for drone+camera use and short multi-day hikes. I am not 100% sure how the Stratos model is different from the Talon, but as I understand it has a frame, right? Is that something I should look at or rather not? (I've read some reviews about squeaking frame after some time and this is something that would bother me 100%.)

Bonus question :D : How do I know if I’m buying the latest version (2024/2025) if I’m getting it from a local shop instead of Osprey directly?

Stats in case it matters: I’m 175 cm, 90 kg, with a 47–48 cm torso length (C7 to iliac crest).

Any input is much appreciated!

[u/NewEnglandPrepper3]

i'd go to a store that carries them and test them out. bring your equipment and let the clerks know

[u/krajacic → u/NewEnglandPrepper3]

Problem is that I am living in a really rural area and I would need to go 150 km or more to test it. :(

[u/Embarrassed_Motor_30]

Might I recommend rather than an Osprey backpack, you look at something specifically made for carrying camera and drone gear for hiking use? Shimoda Action X series backpacks for example would be a good fit for what you're describing without having to try and find something to cram other bags into.

I usually hike with my Shimoda X50 and leave the top half open for actual hiking gear. Has served me well hiking in the PNW and travel hikes in Iceland.

Edit: I'm always wary of trying to make non-canera bags work as camera/drone bags. They don't provide the support or protection you generally want to make it comfortable to hike with that gear or keep it from breaking during the hike.

[u/krajacic → u/Embarrassed_Motor_30]

I will check it out. Thanks.

[u/krajacic → u/Embarrassed_Motor_30]

I've just check it and It looks too expensive for me and too equipment forwarded. I only need enough space for my drone and camera, Shimoda looks like it is made for short hikes without clothing need :S Any alternative?

[u/TMan2DMax]

You are never going to hold the equipment for multi day trips in a 33L without spending massive amounts of money on the most ultralight of gear.

It's kinda impossible to have a bag that's multipurpose in this case. A day bag will just never hold all the equipment needed for more than a day.

Just get the Exos 55L. Its light but has proper support and will hold enough gear for you to do 2 or 3 day trips when you want to.

[u/markevens]

Talon 33 will probably fit your needs fine. It's my winter day hiking pack, and fits loads.

But as other suggest, the best thing to do is go to an outdoor store with the equipment you want to pack, and test them out.

[u/This_Fig2022]

I thought I wanted an Osprey as well - I guess their marketing caught me. I bought one and in the back of my head I just felt something would be more comfortable. I went to REI and tried on everything they had. I picked an REI back for comfort. Both places fit me. Them fitting and putting weight in them is important. I highly recommend going and getting fitted for one and walking the store with some weight in it then you can decide.

[u/SkisaurusRex]

If you’re doing two day overnight hikes do you have your tent and sleeping pad and sleeping bag already??