Osprey Packs Astro Bag - 1100 cu in - 2007 BCS

As a big Osprey fan, I bought this largely off of brand loyalty when I ended up needing a replacement for a 10-year-old backpack for carrying around some books, etc. The reviews and descriptions were promising, so I jumped in.

After receiving it, I was pleasantly suprised to see what I expected - and then some.
- The build quality and comfort is top notch, as usual with Osprey.
- I was especially glad/suprised to see how much it held. This was probably my biggest concern as I was coming from a traditional backpack. Lots of storage space - with 2 interior areas (one for laptop, one for other stuff).
- The description/pictures don't even show them all - there are 7 pockets! One on the front of the flap, two on the front when the flap is opened, a mesh pocket inside, a large document-sized pocket on the back and 2 water bottle pockets on the outside. This thing has crazy amounts of pockets. All the right size in the right place. Perfect.
- Even the buckles are well thought out. I especially like the clasp-style buckle on the shoulder strap. Many other straps require fiddling with the strap through a static buckle. This one has a large clasp you lift up, adjust the strap, and then close the buckle down. It's sturdy, works fast and is fantastic!

The Osprey Astro (or Elroy if you need more space) is a perfect messenger-style bag. If you're shopping around for a great bag, look no further.

Waste strap huh? It never came with mine.
Otherwise I love my Astro. It’s the perfect size for the many jobs it fills. I’m not a student but occasionally take my laptop home from work, plus lunch, a compact umbrella, a book, Nalgene bottle, and other small items, with plenty of room to spare. Other days I’ll stuff my road riding gear in there; bibs, jersey, socks, base layers and warmers, water bottles, etc. Even when sneaking in roadie wear I want to look a little more professional than a simple draw string bag.
I can’t be seen carrying a diaper bag, so this one sees that duty/doodie (pun intended) when it’s just me and the boys.
The shoulder strap is comfortable and easily adjustable. No issues durability wise. Been using this bag for 10+ months, about 2/3s of the days without issue. Good pockets use for phones, MP3 players, etc.
You could overnight with this bag.

I've used this bag for 3+ years now, and absolutely love it. It didn't seem like a big bag at first, but after finishing up my Master's program this spring, I was impressed how I could pack everything I needed for 18 hour study sessions in the library in there. The padded laptop sleeve kept my MacBook Pro safe, the folder pocket held loose papers, plenty of space for 6-10 books, my nalgene, headphones, power cord, and plenty of food. After three years of abuse, this pack has held up really nicely. The only signs of wear and tear are ink markings. There is hardly any signs of abrasion on the reinforced bottom.

I also used this bag while bike commuting. The waist belt help keep the pack in place while riding the back, but was easily removed when I wasn't riding over the winter.

My only complaint is that the velcro on the flap lid is larger than the patch on the front of the bag. This led to the velcro pulling at the nylon on the front of the bag, causing some fuzzing on the pack. Could use some reworking for long term durability.

This is the most wonderful messenger bag I've ever used, and I'm really glad that I finally upgraded from the funky-but-inefficient canvas bags I've been living out of for ages. I use it daily, and also when I travel, and I love its functionality, durability, myriad pockets, and color. (Mine is Redwood, which is a little orange-y, and gorgeous.) The shoulder strap *is* long, but completely adjustable, and hasn't gotten in the way for me at all. I twice dropped it with my laptop in it, and the laptop is still fine. The only flaw I've found is that the waist strap (which I use on occasion) is thin, and would benefit from a either a bit of padding or just width around the hips.

I used this for a week long vacation and could fit everything that I needed (minus the bouldering gear) into my bag. I am now using it for classes and so far it has held up very well walking around campus. I have yet to try it on my bike. I love the waist belt, makes carrying the load a little easier since weight is dispersed to the hips. Shoulder cushion is sufficient it could be a little longer in length. My laptop (15.4") fits great and I am sure there is room for a 17".
So far it has been beyond convenient.

I love my new bag. It is a great size and fits "my life" inside it! I can carry my books, my water bottle, wallet, and laptop and then go to the grocery store and put in some produce and it doesn't get smooshed since the bag natuaraly holds it shape. The laptop pocket is a little small and doesn't fit my computer but I thought the bigger bag was way too big for my needs (plus it fits in the other pockets). The sholder strap is also excessively long which was easily fixed with some scissors and matches. I have had it for about a month and just yesterday discovered a new pocket, it is the bag that just keeps on giving! I also love the waist strap (the feature that I was specifically seeking) as I bike everywhere that I can. Overall this bag is delicious!