Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack Review

Everything I Learned from the Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack

The Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack is a modern take on Kelty’s iconic Redwing series, blending classic durability with travel-friendly features. Designed to be a versatile companion for everything from weekend camping trips to international adventures, the Redwing Traveler 50L boasts ample storage, thoughtful organization, and a rugged build. It promises to be the only pack you’ll need, whether you’re road-tripping across the country, car-camping in Moab, or day-trading from your Sprinter Van in Baja, so let’s dive in and see if it lives up to the hype.

I was searching for a pack that could handle both backcountry hikes and airline travel, one that wouldn’t look out of place on a trail or in a hostel. Tired of juggling multiple bags for different scenarios, I needed something adaptable and durable, and the Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

Unboxing the Redwing Traveler 50L, my initial impression was positive. The 600D Recycled Ripstop material felt robust and ready for abuse, yet the pack was surprisingly lightweight for its size. The design was clean and functional, with a plethora of pockets and compartments promising excellent organization.

I also considered the Osprey Farpoint 40 and the North Face Borealis, both popular options in the travel backpack category. The Osprey focused more on travel-specific features, while the North Face leaned towards a more streamlined, everyday carry. The Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack struck a balance between these two, offering the ruggedness of a hiking pack with the organization of a travel bag.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked and felt great, but the real test would be how it performed under real-world conditions. Would it be comfortable enough for long hikes? Would the organization features actually be useful? Time would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack was a weekend backpacking trip in the Adirondack Mountains. I packed it with about 35 pounds of gear, including a tent, sleeping bag, cooking supplies, and clothing. The weather was a mixed bag, with sunshine one minute and a light drizzle the next.

The pack performed admirably in these varying conditions. The stowable hip belt proved invaluable, distributing the weight evenly and preventing shoulder strain. The durable 600D Recycled Ripstop shrugged off the light rain and held up well against the rough terrain.

It took a few adjustments to get the fit dialed in perfectly, but once I found the sweet spot, the pack felt incredibly comfortable. The internal frame provided excellent support, even on uneven trails. The signature wing side pockets also proved to be useful for stashing water bottles and snacks.

My only initial issue was with the main compartment zipper, which felt a little stiff. However, this seemed to improve with use. Otherwise, the Redwing Traveler 50L exceeded my expectations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack has become my go-to pack for both travel and outdoor adventures. It’s accompanied me on multiple camping trips, a cross-country road trip, and even a few international flights.

The pack has held up remarkably well to the rigors of travel. There are a few minor scuffs and dirt stains, but the 600D Recycled Ripstop shows no signs of tearing or fraying. The zippers, including the initially stiff main compartment zipper, now operate smoothly.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the pack looking clean. I’ve also occasionally used a mild detergent to remove stubborn stains.

Compared to my previous travel backpack, a smaller, less structured model from a budget brand, the Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack is a significant upgrade. It’s more comfortable, more durable, and offers far superior organization. I can confidently say it outperforms my old pack in every way.

Breaking Down the Features of Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack

Specifications

The Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack boasts the following specifications:

• Manufacturer: Kelty
• Size: One Size
• Gender: Unisex
• Weight: 3.68 lb
• Pack Application: Backpacking
• Pack Type: Backpack
• Capacity: 50 liters
• Pack Volume: 50 liters
• Body Material: 600D Recycled Ripstop
• Fabric/Material: 600D Recycled Ripstop
• Pack Loading: Top

These specifications translate to a pack that is both durable and relatively lightweight. The 50-liter capacity offers ample space for multi-day trips, while the 600D Recycled Ripstop ensures that the pack can withstand the wear and tear of travel. The weight of 3.68 lbs is reasonable for a pack of this size and feature set.

Performance & Functionality

The Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a versatile travel and outdoor companion. Its strengths lie in its organization, durability, and comfort.

The numerous pockets and compartments make it easy to keep gear organized, while the advanced perimeter frame provides excellent support and load management. The stowable hip belt is a game-changer for long hikes or airport transits.

The main weakness is that the pack is not fully waterproof. While the 600D Recycled Ripstop offers some water resistance, a rain cover is recommended for heavy downpours.

Overall, the Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack meets and, in many ways, exceeds expectations. It’s a well-designed, well-built pack that delivers on its promise of versatility and durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The 600D Recycled Ripstop material feels rugged and durable, while the overall design is clean and modern.

The pack is surprisingly comfortable to carry, thanks to the padded shoulder straps, hip belt, and back panel. The adjustable torso length allows for a customized fit, ensuring optimal weight distribution.

The pack is generally user-friendly, although it may take some time to familiarize yourself with all the pockets and compartments. The full-access main compartment is a welcome feature, making it easy to pack and unpack gear.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack is built to last. The 600D Recycled Ripstop material is highly resistant to tearing and abrasion, while the reinforced stitching adds to the pack’s overall durability.

With proper care, this pack should last for many years. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional treatment with a water repellent spray will help to prolong its lifespan.

The pack is relatively easy to repair, should the need arise. Kelty offers a limited lifetime warranty, which covers manufacturing defects.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack does not come with many accessories, but its design lends itself well to customization.

The daisy chain attachment points allow you to attach external gear, such as trekking poles or sleeping pads. The pack is also compatible with most hydration reservoirs.

While Kelty does not offer specific customization options for this pack, you can easily add aftermarket accessories, such as compression straps, water bottle holders, or gear loops.

Pros and Cons of Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack

Who Should Buy Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack?

The Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack is perfect for:

• Travelers who need a durable and organized backpack for international adventures.
• Hikers and campers who want a comfortable and versatile pack for weekend trips.
• Anyone who appreciates a well-designed and well-built backpack that can handle a variety of tasks.

Who should skip this product?

• Minimalist travelers who prefer a smaller and lighter pack.
• Those who need a fully waterproof backpack for extreme weather conditions.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Rain cover for heavy downpours.
• Hydration reservoir for hands-free water access.

Conclusion on Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack

The Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack is a solid choice for anyone seeking a versatile and durable pack that can handle both travel and outdoor adventures. Its thoughtful design, comfortable carry, and rugged construction make it a worthwhile investment.

The price of $179.95 is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and features. While it’s not the cheapest pack on the market, it offers excellent value for the money.

I would personally recommend the Kelty Redwing Traveler 50L Backpack to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile pack that can handle a variety of situations. If you’re tired of juggling multiple bags and want a single pack that can do it all, the Redwing Traveler 50L is definitely worth considering. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready for your next adventure!