First Impressions of Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack
The Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack arrives with a legacy, a modern take on a classic design that’s been turning heads on trails and in airports for years. Manufactured by Kelty, a name synonymous with outdoor gear innovation and reliability, this pack promises to be a versatile companion for everything from quick overnight trips to daily commutes. The touted clamshell opening and carry-on compliance piqued my interest immediately, promising a blend of convenience and rugged dependability that I’m always on the lookout for.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a single pack that could seamlessly transition between weekend backpacking trips and weekday office life. My old packs were either too bulky for everyday use or lacked the organizational features necessary for serious outdoor adventures. The Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack appeared to offer the perfect balance – a compact yet spacious design with features catering to both travel and outdoor pursuits.
Unboxing the pack, I was immediately struck by the quality of the materials and the thoughtful design. The 600D Recycled Ripstop fabric feels incredibly durable, ready to withstand the rigors of the trail or the baggage carousel. The weight, at 3.46 lbs, felt reasonable for a pack of this size, suggesting a comfortable carry even when fully loaded.
I considered the Osprey Farpoint 40 and the North Face Borealis, but ultimately chose the Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack for its classic aesthetics and the promise of a fully opening main compartment. The Osprey felt too focused on travel, while the Borealis lacked the external attachment points I often need for hiking gear. This Kelty pack seemed to strike the perfect middle ground.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack seemed to deliver on its promises, but I was eager to put it to the test and see how it performed in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack through its paces on a weekend backpacking trip in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains. I packed it with essentials like a lightweight tent, sleeping bag, cooking gear, and enough food and water for two days. The weather was generally favorable, but we did encounter some light rain and muddy trails.
The pack performed admirably in the variable conditions. The stowable hip belt came in handy on the steeper sections of the trail, effectively transferring the weight to my hips and preventing shoulder strain. The main compartment’s full clamshell opening made it incredibly easy to access my gear, even when the pack was stuffed to capacity.
I did notice that the signature wing side pockets could be a bit tight when the main compartment was completely full. This made it slightly difficult to access water bottles or other frequently used items while on the move. Otherwise, the first outing was largely positive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple hiking trips, a few weekend getaways, and even daily commutes to the office, the Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack has proven to be a reliable and versatile companion. The 600D Recycled Ripstop fabric has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of tears or abrasions. The zippers are smooth and durable, and the stitching remains intact.
Maintaining the pack is relatively simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve also spot-cleaned it with a mild detergent to remove tougher stains, and the fabric has remained colorfast and resilient.
Compared to my previous backpacking pack, a heavier, top-loading model, the Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack is a significant improvement in terms of convenience and organization. However, it doesn’t quite match the load-carrying capacity of that older, larger pack, but the trade-off in weight and accessibility is well worth it for shorter trips and everyday use. This Kelty pack exceeded my expectations for a multi-purpose pack.
Breaking Down the Features of Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kelty. Kelty has a long history of making quality outdoor gear.
- Size: One Size. This is a typical offering for packs in this category, with adjustable torso lengths.
- Gender: Unisex. Designed to fit a wide range of body types.
- Weight: 3.46 lb (1.57 kg). Lightweight enough for comfortable extended wear.
- Pack Application: Backpacking. Suited for shorter backpacking trips.
- Pack Type: Backpack. Classic backpack design.
- Capacity: 40 liters. A good balance of size and portability.
- Pack Volume: 40 liters. This directly corresponds to the pack’s capacity.
- Body Material: 600D Recycled Ripstop. Durable and environmentally conscious material choice.
- Fabric/Material: 600D Recycled Ripstop. Provides excellent resistance to tearing and abrasion.
- Pack Loading: Top. While it is technically a top-loading pack, the clamshell design offers full access to the main compartment.
These specifications translate to a pack that is lightweight, durable, and easy to use. The recycled materials are a welcome touch for environmentally conscious consumers.
Performance & Functionality
The Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack performs exceptionally well in a variety of scenarios. Its carry-on compliance makes it a fantastic travel companion, eliminating the hassle of checked baggage. The clamshell opening is a game-changer, allowing for easy packing and unpacking, and eliminating the need to dig through layers of gear to find what you need.
The advanced perimeter frame provides excellent stability and load management, making it comfortable to carry even when fully loaded. The stowable hip belt is a valuable feature, allowing you to customize the pack for different activities.
The main weakness is the limited accessibility of the side pockets when the main compartment is full. Also, the lack of external compression straps can make the pack feel a bit bulky when carrying smaller loads. Overall, the pack meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The 600D Recycled Ripstop fabric provides excellent durability and a rugged look. The overall weight of 3.46 lbs feels well-balanced, and the adjustable straps ensure a comfortable fit for a wide range of body types.
The pack is relatively user-friendly, although it may take a few tries to master the optimal strap adjustments. The lighter interior color is a thoughtful touch, making it easier to locate items inside the main compartment.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack is built to last. The robust materials and solid construction suggest that it will withstand years of regular use.
Maintaining the pack is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional spot-cleaning with a mild detergent should keep it in good condition. The durable zippers and reinforced stitching are designed to withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor adventures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack does not come with a vast array of accessories, but its design is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket add-ons. The external attachment points allow you to easily attach trekking poles, sleeping pads, or other bulky items.
The pack is also compatible with most hydration reservoirs, allowing you to stay hydrated on the trail. While there are no specific Kelty-branded accessories designed exclusively for this pack, the standard size and attachment points make it easy to customize with third-party options.
Pros and Cons of Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack
Pros
- Carry-on compliant size makes it ideal for air travel.
- Full clamshell opening for easy packing and access.
- Durable 600D Recycled Ripstop construction for long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable to carry with advanced perimeter frame and stowable hip belt.
- Versatile design suitable for travel, hiking, and everyday use.
Cons
- Side pockets can be difficult to access when the main compartment is full.
- Lack of external compression straps can make the pack feel bulky with smaller loads.
Who Should Buy Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack?
The Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack is perfect for travelers, weekend hikers, and anyone who needs a versatile and durable pack for everyday use. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a well-organized pack with easy access to their gear. Casual campers will also appreciate the pack’s ruggedness and comfortable carry.
This pack may not be ideal for serious backpackers undertaking multi-day expeditions, as it may lack the capacity and specialized features required for such trips. Someone needing a super lightweight pack might also find this Kelty a bit heavy.
A must-have accessory would be a rain cover to protect the pack and its contents in wet weather. Consider also adding some internal organization pouches to further optimize storage.
Conclusion on Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack
The Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack is a well-designed and versatile pack that delivers on its promises. Its carry-on compliance, clamshell opening, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
At $179.95, the price is justified given the pack’s quality, features, and versatility. It represents a solid value for those seeking a reliable and multi-functional backpack.
I would definitely recommend the Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack to anyone looking for a do-it-all pack that can handle everything from weekend hikes to daily commutes. Upgrade your adventures and travels with the reliable Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L Backpack today!