Osprey tempest velocity 30

This bag is both great and not great. I am 5'4" and petite, and the bag fit well and was comfortable. I recently used it on a 4-day hike in the Dolomites, and it was great for this---I love the running vest design with front pockets, and it was spacious inside. I found the external water bladder sleeve quite tight so did not fill my bladder up very full. The main drawback is that the bag only really closes if it's full. The flap cover does not work at all if the bag is only half full or if not carrying a helmet. I did have a small, separate daypack I used on other parts of the trip, but this was also my main travel backpack and it did not really work for this. I would have really loved a proper lid with a lid pocket for some organization and that stayed closed instead of the flap just waving around.

In short: The Tempest Velocity 30 is a versatile, high-comfort pack that transitions easily from summit pushes to casual hikes and everyday use. It’s loaded with thoughtful storage and moves naturally with your body, making it a strong option for active users. The $215 price tag might cause a sharp inhale, but after testing, the fit, comfort, and overall design make a convincing case.

I have been using my old Tempest Velocity 24 for several years. I loved that pack but now that I bring my dog hiking, I needed a bigger bag to carry my stuff and hers. I was going back and forth to between the upgraded version sizes (20L vs 30L) for some time until I saw they were part of REI’s sale. I decided to go for the bigger bag option and I am so glad I did! I always carry a sit pad with me and it fits underneath the pack instead of in a side pocket. I love the ease of use for the water bottle holders I love having the capability of having my 1.5L water bladder. The way the bag closes is weird but if the mesh is full it seems more secure. I have used this new pack a couple of times now, so I am still getting used to it and trying to side out the best adjustment points for me, but overall I’d highly recommend!

I bought this to upgrade from my old Tempest 24L. I wanted something a bit bigger and more spacious since I bring my dog with me and carry her stuff on hikes. I was going between getting the 20L or the 30L and I’m glad I went with the 30L. It is the most comfortable pack I’ve ever put on and worn for a hike. My back and shoulder felt great and I love the front pockets!

Super light and more pockets like a running vest where I can put my cellphone, blocks.