As well as its PFC-Free DWR Coating, the Archeon 70L also has an integrated and detachable recycled raincover to help protect your gear from the conditions.

Another useful feature you’ll be grateful for on those long, thirst-inducing, walks in the big outdoors is the internal hydration sleeve. It’s a part of the Archeon 70L that’ll keep your reservoir firmly in place.

The sternum strap on the Archeon 70L, it’s worth adding, has an emergency whistle for attracting attention should you ever find yourself in trouble and, finally, the pack’s overarching sense of tough-it-out durability is underlined by its tough metal buckles throughout.

Conclusion

The £250 you’ll fork out on the Osprey Archeon 70L might seem like big bucks to spend on a backpack but when you consider just how durable, practical, and fundamentally usable this is the price of it doesn’t seem so unreasonable. There are, for sure, more budget options out there but none of them, we’d wager, will bring this level of quality to your adventures.

The pack is also super sustainable and environmentally friendly, so there’s no need to worry about being on the wrong side of the eco divide.

Tester’s Verdict

Giles Dean, Outdoors Magic gear tester

“I tested this backpack on the Becket Way, a pilgrimage from Southwark Cathedral to Canterbury Cathedral, which was a three-day hike with two nights of wild camping.

The 100% recycled material has a really nice feel to it and it super durable. It’s the type of bag that you know is going to age well – it can take some heavy use and will look better for it. The downside to this sort of material is its weight. As mentioned in the review above, lighter bags can be found elsewhere, but if you’ve read this far counting grams probably isn’t your thing anyway.

“One design floor that I did find on the sample I tested is that the straps on top of the shoulders kept on slipping. This, I believe, was due to the metal buckles Osprey had used for it. This issue has been resolved now however and Osprey has updated these to a different type of plastic buckle instead – but do check before buying.”

Tester’s Verdict

Will Renwick, Outdoors Magic Editor

“Despite its classic look, this is actually surprisingly modern in terms of its construction – particularly in regards to the back system, which I’ve found to be very comfortable (as always seems to be the case with Osprey in my opinion), and brilliant at managing heavy loads.

“The fabric is thick and tough, and therefore the Archeon is on the heavy side. But there’s a really dependable feel to it though, and I like that.”

“A small downside I found, was that the hook and loop sternum strap is quite fiddly. I expect the webbing will loosen a little eventually however. So it’s not too much of an issue.”

“There’s a smaller daypack in this new Archeon collection that I’ve also been using, and that’s impressed me also. Nice fabrics, a nice look and all the right features. I think Osprey could be onto a bit of a winner with this series.”