- Camping & Backpacking
Pingora Outro 40 Review: After 200 km in the Alps
When I was preparing myself for the longest trek of my career, the Tour du Mont Blanc, I put a lot of thought into what to bring with me and the experience I wanted to have. Enter the Pingora Outro 40 backpacking bag. I knew I wanted something smaller than my backpacking pack, but larger than my day pack. So, I ended up with something new. Here is my Pingora Outro 40 review!
My pack criteria for the TMB were: comfortable, compact, and with plenty of organization. I knew I needed to fit all my gear into the pack while still being able to use it as a carry-on, and everything fit into the 40-liter bag without issue. I also knew that if I was going to be wearing a ~20-pound pack for 106 miles, it needed to be comfortable.
This pack was with me on rough terrain and city streets, in the high heat of the summer, and during a thunderstorm. It was my carry-on for an international trip and a day-trip pack in Zermatt. I tested this pack in every scenario. If you’re considering purchasing the Pingora Outro 40, I think it is a great choice.
In this blog post, I will provide a Pingora Outro 40 Review, Pros and Cons of the pack, and some alternatives. If that sounds good to you, let’s get into it!
Just a heads up! This post contains affiliate links, which means I could earn a small commission at no additional cost to you on purchases made through my site. Thanks for your support!
Best Backpack for International Travel: Pingora Outro 40 Review
Suppose you’re looking for a compact and well-organized backpack to bring backpacking across Europe or Asia, or even on a short overnight trail. In that case, I cannot recommend the Pingora Outro 40 enough. I even brought this pack while I trekked through the Sierra Norte outside of Oaxaca, Mexico.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the Pingora Outro 40’s build, features, and specifications – including what stood out to me when testing it for the Tour du Mont Blanc.
| Specs | Details |
| Volume/ Capacity | 40 Liters ( ~2,441 cubic inches) |
| Dimensions | 69 x 33 x 35 cm (27 x 13 x 14 inches) |
| Empty Weight | 3 lbs 12.8 oz |
| Torso Length | Adjustable, 42 cm to 57 cm (~16.5 – 22 in) |
| Hip Belt Size | Small, Medium, & Large |
| Notable Features | Harness, hip, and side-access pockets Customizable torso length Trekking pole/ice axe attachment points 50/50 Interior zippered divider panel |
Below you will find my trail-tested insight, in addition to reviewing some of the key components of this multiday pack.
Purchase the Pingora Outro 40 Here!
Design & Feature Highlights of the Pingora Outro
Pingora Gear wanted to create an “optimized backpack for a simple experience in the backcountry,” and I believe they delivered on that. Further stating that this pack was “best for lightweight backcountry missions.” After trekking 103 miles in the Alps, this pack delivered.
Here are the features that set the Outro 40 apart, especially those that were designed to help on long alpine routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc or long urban routes like the Camino de Santiago.
50/50 Internal Divider with Rear Panel Access
The main compartment of the pack is split diagonally, with the front half of the pack accessible via the weather-resistant roll top and the back half accessible via a zippered back panel. This divider system makes it easy to organize your gear for your trek while taking into account thoughtful backpack packing for optimal weight distribution.
Heavier items need to be packed closer to your back, while squishier and bulkier items can be packed on the outside of your pack.
For the Tour du Mont Blanc, I kept my heavier items that I wouldn’t need on the trail, like my electronics bag, toiletries, and clothes, in the back compartment. In the front compartment, I kept things like my puffy jacket, rain gear, sleeping bag liner, and food. My pack was always well-balanced and well-organized with this system.
Knowing which compartment my gear was in makes it easy to grab things without having to pull out all of the gear in my pack.
Roll-top Closure and Compression
Many ultralight backpacking bags have transitioned to the roll-top design. This design choice enables easy access, provides stabilizing compression, and offers weather resistance.
The roll top also allows for varying amounts of gear, which makes it adaptable for different types of adventures.
The roll top clips closed, and there is an additional strap that holds down the pack. The only issue that I had with the roll top and compression strap was that the TSA agent couldn’t figure out how to get into my pack, but refused to accept my help.
Pockets & Organization
The Pingora Outro Pack features two large side pockets, ideal for storing water bottles, quick-grab layers, or tripods. I was able to fit a Nalgene and my tripod in one of the side pockets with room to spare. These side pockets are SPACIOUS.
The two pockets on the shoulder straps are mesh and stretchy. I kept my sunglasses, wallet, and snacks in these pockets. You’d be surprised how much you can fit in these pockets.
Dual hip belt stash pockets are great for your phone, snacks, wallet, sunscreen, small power banks, and chapstick. I used the hipbelt pockets more than the shoulder strap pockets. I do think that, based on how narrow the pockets are, larger phones would be a hassle to put into them. I had that issue with the Osprey Aura.
This pack also had some great internal pockets. In each of the large interior pockets, there are two large mesh pockets that zip closed. I put essential documents into these pockets, like our passports, printed copies of our passports and IDs, and some confirmation numbers for our reservations. You could also fit things like your keys or wallet. I found these mesh pockets to be perfect for internal organization.
The outside of the Pingora Outro also offers attachment points for hiking poles, ice axes, and a few additional clip points to attach items to the exterior of the pack.
Within the back zippered pocket, there is a pocket that fits and holds a 2-liter water bladder with an exit point to feed the hydration bladder hose through the pack.
The seamless organization and storage options make this pack incredibly user-friendly for all-day comfort on the trail.
Pack Customization & Inclusive Fit
While most backpacking packs come in standard sizes like XS/S, M/L, etc., the Pingora Outro has several customizations that create the perfect fit for adventurers.
You can choose the torso length that corresponds to the size of the pack. Typically, torso length refers to the different-sized packs, such as those by Osprey or Deuter. The torso length is measured from the top of your hip bone to the base of your neck at vertebra C7. The unique torso length adjustment system makes this bag perfect for all body types.
In addition to customizing the size of your pack based on torso length, you can also choose the size of your hipbelt, which is not typically an option for a standard base model pack. You can measure the circumference of your hips to determine which size hip belt would be good for you.
What I LOVE about being able to choose your hipbelt size for your pack at no additional charge is that it makes this pack size inclusive. Many popular backpacks offer hip belt expanders at an additional cost, but the Pingora Outro offers smaller and larger hip belts at no extra charge.
Before you hit the trail, you will know that your pack is going to fit you true to size without having to do a ton of adjustments.
Suspension, Load Transfer, & Comfort
While the Pingora Outro isn’t the lightest pack I’ve ever worn, it is the lightest, most comfortable pack I’ve ever worn. After taking the time to familiarize myself with the different compression straps, load lifters, and pack adjustments, a heavy pack felt like it was a part of me.
The pack offers an internal wireframe suspension underneath a padded lumbar pad. This helps distribute weight evenly and makes long treks with a heavy pack feel less strenuous.
The load transfer straps are incredible. IMO, load transfer straps are a necessity for every backpacking pack, but not enough people take advantage of them. These load transfer straps do cross over the back zippered compartment, so on the trail, it is a few more steps to get into that compartment since you have to unbuckle the load transfer straps and then readjust them once you put your pack on.
There were a few times on the trail that after opening the back compartment and putting my pack on, I forgot to clip in the load transfer straps, and I definitely felt the difference.
The shoulder straps, back panel, and hip belt are well-padded with dense foam. While these are very comfortable, I will say that they get very, very sweaty. There is not a ton of airflow that can get to your back, unlike the Osprey Aura, which has a suspended mesh panel that allows for airflow. However, you will find this to be the case with many lighter-weight backpacks.
Materials and Pack Durability
The packs are limited in colorways; however, this is due to the fact that Pingora uses overstock and deadstock fabrics whenever possible. From an environmental perspective, they are helping eliminate textile waste whenever possible.
Because they use these fabrics, there is a little variability in the weight of the material depending on the colorway used.
However, for the creation of the packs, they use high-density Nylon 66 ripstop, Nylon Robic fabric in 100D, 210D, and 420D weights. The d weights are indicative of the thread weight in grams. A 210D is stronger but heavier than a 100D. All of the fabric used in this pack are high density are rip resistent.
Pingora uses more durable materials in high-contact areas.
If you’re concerned about which materials are being used for the creation of your colorway, do not hesitate to reach out to customer service. They were extremely helpful with all the questions I asked!
Read Next: Sleeping Bag or Quilt
Why did I use the Pingora Outro 40 for the TMB?
When deciding what backpack to use on the Tour du Mont Blanc, I knew I couldn’t use my day pack because it wasn’t large enough, and my multi-day backpacking pack was too large. When you don’t fill your backpacking packs to their capacity, many of the built-in weight distribution features do not work as well.
Here is a short list of why I ultimately chose the Pingora Outro 40 for the TMB:
- Compact but Expandable: I flew my pack as a carry-on (woohoo!). I could pack my bag fully and utilize the compression straps to fit in the overhead bin without issue. The roll-top +50/50 divider meant that I could run “mid-volume” loads well. Since I wasn’t packing all of my camping gear while sleeping in refuges, I could keep heavy things down low, my bulkiest items near the base, and lighter compressible stuff up top.
- Comfort over Long Meter-Gain Days: The adjustable torso, padded hip belt, and load lifters meant that with proper packing, which that pack made easy, I could carry heavy loads without killing my shoulders or lower back. The pack also fit my body snugly, which helped with balance on many of the rocky mountain passes.
- Weather & Trail Durability: The material is abrasion-resistant on exterior contact areas, where I might scrape against rocks with lighter-weight materials elsewhere. It is also weather-resistant without a rain cover, so unless it was truly raining, my rain cover could stay inside the pack. Pingora does offer rain covers that fit their packs perfectly, but I opted not to purchase them.
- Accessibility and Organization: The multiple organizational pockets and 50/50 internal designs really stood out to me. Since I would be staying in refuges, these organizational pockets made it easy to get what I needed on the trail while keeping my gear organized in the Refuge.
Related Read: Best Women’s Sun Hoodie
Frequently Asked Questions about the Outro
Check out some of my answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Pingor Outro. These answers come after spending over 200 km on the trail with this pack.
Is the Pingora Outro 40 good for long-distance treks like the Tour du Mont Blanc?
Yes! I used this pack on the TMB and found the 40-liter capacity to be the sweet spot for a multi-day trek when packing lightweight gear and staying in huts. If you’re carrying bulkier items or a more cushioned setup, you can size up to their 55-liter, but for most light backpackers, the Outro 40 works beautifully.
How much weight can the Pingora Outro 40 comfortably carry?
The Outro 40 is designed to carry up to 30 pounds comfortably. On the TMB, my pack was never more than 20 pounds. I always found it to be extremely comfortable after familiarizing myself with the compression straps and lift loaders.
If you’re going to be carrying close to 30 pounds or more in this pack, I can’t imagine it being more uncomfortable than any other pack weighing close to 30 pounds.
Does the Pingora Outro 40 fit a bear canister?
A smaller bear canister, like the BV450 from Bear Vault, will fit vertically inside, but a larger one, like the BV500, will likely not fit unless strapped to the top. If you’re backpacking in areas that require a full-size canister, you might want to size up to the 55-liter.
Is the pack waterproof?
This pack is water-resistant but not fully waterproof. The exterior of the pack is water-resistant, so you can get away without a full rain cover in light, misty conditions. The company does sell a rain cover separately, but I just used my large REI Co-op rain cover when needed.
I kept all of my gear in waterproof packing cubes and dry bags for extra protection from damp conditions.
What torso lengths does the Pingora Outro 40 fit?
Pingora designed the Outro 40 with adjustability and size inclusivity in mind. It comes in three sizes: short, average, and long. I purchased the Average size with a Medium Hip Belt, and it fits great. For reference, I am 5’8” and 180 lbs.
Read Next: Best Filtering Water Bottles for Backpacking & Travel
Pack Alternatives to the Pingora Outro
I loved the mid-volume, organized layout and Alpine-friendly features of the Outro, but here are some comparable options if you’re still not sold on the Outro.
Here are four packs with a similar volume that I looked at when deciding what to take on the Tour du Mont Blanc.
Osprey Exos 38
I was actually debating purchasing the Osprey Exos 48 pack a previous year, when I was considering getting a small pack to decrease my pack weight.
The Exos is a classic choice for hikers who want a close to UL carry that still offers reliable suspension and user-friendly organization. It has a lightweight aluminum frame, AirSpeed suspension (for airflow), and stretchy side pockets.
It is slightly lighter than the Outro with more ventilation for long, sweaty alpine days.
Why pick the Exos: Tried and true suspension with features similar to a standard backpacking pack.
Why pick the Outro: Better internal organization and a roll-top expandability for variable loads. A great intro to UL style packs.
Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 40L
If absolute lightness with a modern carbon frame is a priority, the Zpacks Arc Haul is worth a look. This pack is extremely lightweight (sub-700 g in some variations) and uses an arc carbon frame to create an air gap and transfer load efficiently to the hips.
This pack leans more toward fastpacking and long, minimalist thru-hikes where every ounce matters. It has less structure and less pocketed organization than the Outro, but you’ll save a lot of weight.
Why pick the Arc Haul: Significant weight savings and superb airflow/load transfer for an ultralight setup.
Why pick the Outro: Better, real-world organization, more abrasion-resistant fabric choices, and more practical pockets for multi-day alpine treks.
Gregory Zulu/Maven 45
The Gregory Zulu is a solid “everything” pack. It has comfortable FreeFloat suspension, durable fabrics, and easy access to the main compartment. It is similar in overall weight to the Outro and made with durable recycled fabrics.
This is a reliable, no-surprise pack that is comfortable on long day hikes and short backpacking trips. It is washable and similar to a larger backpacking pack. Due to its similarity to my multi-day backpacking pack, I opted not to go with the Maven/Zulu.
Why Pick the Zulu: Great day-to-multi-day versatility. Tried, tested, and true.
Why Pick the Outro: More modern roll-top expandability with a 50/50 internal divider that improves organization on multi-day treks.
REI Co-op Flash 55
Like most REI Co-op brand products, the Flash 55 is a budget-friendly choice(for ultralight packs). It is not as light or as technical as the Arc Haul or Exos, and it doesn’t have the unique divider system of the Outro, but it is a great alternative for people looking for something a little more affordable.
The pack design is similar to that of the Arc Haul, with the large compartment system of most ultralight backpacks and spacious exterior pockets.
The integrated suspension system and adjustable hipbelt size are great for evenly distributing weight. The pack is a little on the larger side so it can be used for multi-day backpacking trips, but if you’re looking for something on the smaller side, it might not be the best option.
Why pick the Fash 50: Great value with the REI’s return/exchange policy and great introduction to ultralight packs.
Why pick the Outro: More compact, organized, and slightly more affordable.
Quick Side-by-Side
- Weight (pack only): Zpacks Arc Haul ≪ Osprey Exos ≲ REI Flash ≈ Pingora Outro
- Organization: Pingora Outro (50/50 divider + rear access) > Osprey Exos / Gregory Zulu > Zpacks Arc Haul
- Durability: Gregory Zulu ≈ Osprey Exos > Pingora Outro (fabric varies by color) > Zpacks
- Best for: ultralight fastpackers (Zpacks), multi-day hikers wanting light comfort (Exos), all-around durability/versatility (Zulu), budget-minded buyers (REI Flash), and organized alpine treks where gear sorting matters (Pingora Outro)
Which one I’d reach for on the Tour du Mont Blanc
If I were doing TMB again, which I plan to do, with the same mix of variable weather, significant elevation gain, and needing quick access to layering and food, the Outro still sits near the top of my list. The divider + rear access combo made life on the trail easier.
If my priority were to cut ounces and carry a very minimalist kit, I’d consider the Arc Haul.
If I needed something ultra-dependable with proven durability and padding for heavier loads, the Gregory Zulu or Osprey Exos would be my backup picks. However, they are still a little too similar to my current multi-day backpack.
I fully intend on wearing the Outro into the ground and plan on bringing it on my next outdoor trek in Sumatra, Indonesia.
Related Read: My Packing List for the TMB
Pack it Up
I loved using the Pingora Outro 40 on the TMB. I think this is the perfect pack for international treks like the TMB, Alta Vias, or a Camino.
The dual compartments were my favorite part of the pack, making it easy to organize my gear and have quick access to important items on the trail.
If you have any questions about this pack after reading my Pingora Outro review, please let me know. I would be happy to answer any questions that I can!
Meet the Author -
Sarah Borgen
I am an Educator and outdoor Enthusiast based out of Seattle and writer of Exploren Borgen! My adventures consist of weekends spent in the woods, on a hike, car camping, and taking a deep breath of fresh air. When not on an adventure, you can find me in a classroom teaching high school science! I love having a job that allows me to the opportunity to discuss things like conservation, sustainability, and accessibility.
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Meet the author
Sarah Borgen, AKA your outdoor bestie
I’m an outdoorsy educator and adventure advocate, which is why I’m passionate about creating resources – like blogs, guides, and interactive maps – to simplify your travels. I’m eager to share some of Washington’s greatest destinations and hidden gems with you.
