The Kelty Redwing Traveler is a 40-liter backpack designed for travel, with a wide U-shaped zipper opening, signature wing pockets, and a harness that can be tucked away. It sits in the crowded mid-size travel pack market, competing with bags that prioritize either organization or carry comfort. Based on its design and specifications, here’s how it stacks up for real-world use.
In practice, the Redwing Traveler is aimed at travelers who want a single bag for weekend trips or as a carry-on for longer journeys. The 40L capacity fits within most carry-on limits, though it’s on the larger end—you’ll want to check airline dimensions. The wide U-zip opening is a standout feature: it lays the bag flat like a suitcase, making packing and unpacking straightforward. This is particularly useful in small hotel rooms or hostels where floor space is limited. The wing pockets, located on the sides, provide quick access to items like a water bottle, snacks, or a small umbrella without digging through the main compartment. They’re also sized to hold a pair of sandals or a light jacket, adding versatility.
The harness system includes padded shoulder straps and a hip belt, and it can be zipped away behind a panel when you want to check the bag or carry it like a duffel. This is a common feature in travel packs, and it works well here—the straps don’t dangle when stowed. However, the hip belt is relatively basic; it lacks the contoured padding found on dedicated hiking backpacks, so for heavy loads or long walks, it may not transfer weight as effectively. The back panel has some padding and a ventilation channel, but it’s not as breathable as mesh systems on trekking packs. For typical travel—moving through airports, train stations, and short walks to accommodations—it’s adequate, but it wouldn’t be our first choice for a multi-hour hike.
Material and construction appear solid, consistent with Kelty’s reputation for durable outdoor gear. The fabric is a polyester blend with a water-resistant coating, and the zippers are sturdy. The bag includes compression straps to cinch down the load, and there’s a laptop sleeve in the main compartment, though it’s not padded as heavily as a dedicated laptop bag. The top lid has a small pocket for quick-grab items, and there’s a front pocket with organization for smaller accessories. One trade-off: the bag itself weighs around 3.5 pounds, which is reasonable for its capacity but not ultralight. If you’re counting ounces, there are lighter options.
Compared to a standard travel backpack like the Osprey Farpoint 40, the Redwing Traveler offers a similar feature set but with a different focus. The Farpoint has a more refined harness and a smoother zip-away mechanism, but the Redwing’s wing pockets provide external storage that the Farpoint lacks. On the other hand, the Redwing’s U-zip opening is more suitcase-like than the Farpoint’s front-loading design, which some travelers prefer for organization. Against a rolling carry-on, the Redwing is more versatile for varied terrain but lacks wheels, so it’s a trade-off between convenience and mobility.
Who is this for? It suits travelers who want a versatile bag for weekend getaways or as a primary carry-on, especially those who value easy packing and external pockets. It’s also a good fit for outdoor enthusiasts who need a bag that can handle light trails but still work for urban travel. However, it’s not ideal for ultralight backpackers or those embarking on long treks where harness comfort is paramount. If you need a bag for heavy loads or extended walking, a dedicated hiking pack would be better. Also, if you prefer a more streamlined, professional look, the wing pockets and sporty aesthetic might not appeal.
In summary, the Kelty Redwing Traveler 40L is a functional, durable travel pack with thoughtful features like the wide opening and wing pockets. It performs well for typical travel scenarios but has limitations in harness comfort and weight. It’s a solid choice for casual travelers, but those with specific needs—like ultralight travel or technical hikes—should look elsewhere.