Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking Backpack vs Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack (2026)

✍️ By the 247Verdict Editorial Team📅 Updated 05 October 2026

Which is better? We compared both on score, owner ratings, pros and cons.

Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking Backpack

9.1/10 Excellent

4.7★ (6,800 owners)

48L, adjustable harness, rain cover, hydration compatible, All Mighty Guarantee. 3-5 day hiking.

Full Review

Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack

8.9/10 Great

4.5★ (3,800 owners)

45L, ventilated back, hipbelt pockets, rain cover, accessible front opening. Scandinavian hiking pack.

Full Review

At a Glance

	Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking Backpack	Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack
247Verdict Score	9.1/10	8.9/10
Owner Rating	4.7★ (6,800)	4.5★ (3,800)
Verdict	Excellent	Great
Capacity	48L	45L
Back	AirSpeed ventilated	Ventilated suspension
Rain cover	Integrated	Integrated

Quick Verdict

Both are strong choices, but the Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking Backpack edges ahead with a 9.1/10 vs 8.9/10. 48L, adjustable harness, rain cover, hydration compatible, All Mighty Guarantee. 3-5 day hiking. That said, the Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack is worth considering if 45L, ventilated back, hipbelt pockets, rain cover, accessible front opening. Scandinavian hiking pack. Check the current price on Amazon →

Pros & Cons Side by Side

Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking Backpack

AirSpeed back panel provides ventilated suspension for reduced back sweat on extended carries
Adjustable harness accommodates torso lengths from 15 to 22 inches — fits most body types without sizing
Integrated rain cover deploys in seconds from the base — no fumbling at the start of rain
Hydration reservoir compatible for tube-based drinking during hiking
Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee covers the pack for lifetime

48L is touring size — too large for day hiking, slightly small for 6+ night expeditions
AirSpeed back panel adds weight vs direct-contact alternatives — some prefer it for ventilation

Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack

Ventilated back panel separates pack from spine for airflow on steep ascents
Large hipbelt pockets hold phone and snacks without removing the pack
Front U-opening allows full access to pack contents without unpacking from top
Integrated rain cover deployable without removing the pack
Thule's Scandinavian heritage in outdoor equipment design since 1942

45L is touring size — too large for day hiking, slightly too small for 5+ day expeditions
Hipbelt fit requires proper sizing — poorly fitted hipbelts are uncomfortable for long days
Premium pricing over Osprey Talon alternatives at similar capacity

FAQ

Which is better, Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking or Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking?

Is the Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking worth the extra cost?

Yes — Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking Backpack scores higher at 9.1/10 vs 8.9/10.

Who is the Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking best suited to?

48L, adjustable harness, rain cover, hydration compatible, All Mighty Guarantee. 3-5 day hiking.

Who is the Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking best suited to?

45L, ventilated back, hipbelt pockets, rain cover, accessible front opening. Scandinavian hiking pack.

What are the main downsides of each?

Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking Backpack: 48L is touring size — too large for day hiking, slightly small for 6+ night expeditions; AirSpeed back panel adds weight vs direct-contact alternatives — some prefer it for ventilation. Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack: 45L is touring size — too large for day hiking, slightly too small for 5+ day expeditions; Hipbelt fit requires proper sizing — poorly fitted hipbelts are uncomfortable for long days.

Do owner ratings agree with our verdict?

Largely, yes — Osprey Kestrel 48 Hiking Backpack sits at 4.7★ from 6,800 verified Amazon owners, and Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack at 4.5★ from 3,800.

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