Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack: The Best 3 Day Pack?
The hunt for a perfect 3 day pack can drive any hiker crazy. After testing the Kelty Redwing 50 on trails and treks through the woods, this 50-liter backpack for hiking won me over.
The sweat-fighting AMP-Flow back panel kept me cool during steep climbs, while the FIT-Pro system hugged my shoulders in all the right places to remain comfortable and not feel like it was pulling me down.
Now granted, when I first purchased Kelty’s most legendary pack, I didn’t have the intention of using it strictly for hiking. My new Redwing was purchased to use as a dedicated BOB (bug-out bag). While I wasn’t looking for a backpack for hiking, I quickly found that its comfort really set it apart from the bags I already owned and was using for hikes.
(Now, I guess I need to figure out what I’m going to do with all these extra bags and packs I have)
But trust me — this pack belongs in your gear closet. The Kelty Redwing 50 backpack carries loads well and won’t break your budget. Whether you’re planning a weekend in the woods or a desert adventure, this faithful companion will serve you well on the trail or as a bug-out bag.
With all that being said, this article is going to be more of a bag review than your typical article on why you would need such a pack — I think, for the most part, people understand the use of a backpack.
So, I’m going to unpack the many ways of using this particular pack, how it helps keep you cool, all the attachment points, the versatility and reliability, and how the Kelty Redwing 50 pack opened my eyes to what a quality bag should look and feel like.
If you want a bag you can take anywhere you go, this top loading backpack is at the “top of the pack” for a reason. Let’s dive into this 50L pack.
For those already curious, this is the bag I purchased, and I recommend Kelty packs 100%. I got it in the duck green color since I (as mentioned already) originally wanted this to strictly be a bug-out bag.
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- The Kelty Redwing 50 holds 50 liters (3051 cubic inches) of gear. It weighs only 2.44 pounds and fits torso sizes from 15.5 to 21 inches.
- The pack has smart features like the AMP-Flow back panel for cooling and a U-zipper for easy access. The FIT-Pro system lets users adjust the fit quickly for comfort on long hikes.
- Made of tough 420D polyester, this pack ranks extremely high in hiking backpacks and works well for both outdoor trips and travel.
- The pack includes five outer pockets, side water bottle holders, and pass-through storage for hiking poles. The main space fits three days of gear, making it perfect for weekend trips.
- While the pack lacks a built-in rain cover, it offers great value for hikers and preppers. It can carry up to 40 pounds of gear and stays comfy on long trails.
Key Features of the Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack
The Kelty Redwing 50 stands out with smart features that make it perfect for any trip. I’ve tested this pack on trails, hikes, and long walks, and its FIT-Pro system, ventilated back panel, and U-zipper access makes it a joy to use.
If you really wanted to, this Kelty Redwing 50 would even be good for packing and taking through airports during your travels if you want something to store all your stuff in.
1. FIT-Pro Adjustment System for Customized Fit
I tested the FIT-Pro adjustment system on my Kelty Redwing 50L during multiple trips. This smart system fits torso sizes from 15.5 to 21 inches with quick adjustments. My pack stays stable on rough trails thanks to its advanced perimeter frame and amazing torso fit.
The adjustment straps let me dial in a perfect fit in under 30 seconds, which I thought was awesome. This was something I was looking for as I wanted an adjustment system for a quick modification on the go.
Each strap locks firmly into place, making the 2.44-pound pack feel lighter on long hikes. The system works great for both short day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips.
2. AMP-Flow Ventilated Back Panel for Comfort
The AMP-Flow back panel on my Kelty Redwing 50 keeps me cool during long hikes. Air moves freely through the mesh channels, cutting down on sweat build-up against my back.
I wanted a ventilated back panel to help keep me cool because I’m one of those people who could sit in a pile of snow and sweat (yeah, I’m weird). But it sits 2.4 inches away from the main pack body, creating space for constant airflow.
My back stays dry even after carrying 50 liters of gear through hot weather.
Many people mentioned the ventilation system was great when I was looking at reviews before I purchased it, and I’d definitely agree with them. The mesh material holds up well after miles of use, and the spacing helps prevent that sticky feeling during summer treks.
The panel covers the full 23.7-inch length of the pack’s back, spreading out the cooling effect across the entire contact area.
3. Hybrid U-Zipper Design for Easy Access
I love the hybrid U-zipper design on my Kelty Redwing 50. This smart feature lets me grab gear from the top or side of the pack fast. The U-shaped zipper opens wide (just like a panel loader), giving me quick access to all my survival gear inside the 50-liter main space.
The zipper runs smooth and strong after miles of heavy use. My bug-out gear stays safe thanks to the sturdy YKK zippers that never snag or break. This dual-access system beats other packs that only open from the top.
I can find small items fast without dumping everything out.
Kelty Redwing 50 Storage and Organization
I love how the Kelty Redwing 50 top loader keeps my stuff neat with its smart storage setup.
The main compartment fits my gear like a dream, while the side pockets and pass-thru space make it easy to grab what I need fast.
Just so you have an idea of the overall size for reference, you’re looking at overall dimensions of 27 x 18 x 10 inches (L x W x D).
1. Main Compartment Capacity and Accessibility
The main compartment of my Kelty Redwing 50 holds 3051 cubic inches (50 liters) of gear.
This is big enough to easily fit all of the gear I need for a bug-out bag, including my Elite Survival Systems Recon 3 sleeping bag (or the Recon 2, depending on the weather and temperature that time of year).
The hybrid U-zipper design makes access super easy — both from the top and panel-loading style.
The pass-thru space behind the side pockets creates extra room for larger items like tents or sleeping bags.
The internal frame pack features smart storage zones that keep my survival gear sorted. The main space fits 3-days worth of supplies, while the wing pockets hold quick-grab items.
My favorite part is how the FIT-Pro system lets me adjust the torso length for perfect weight distribution during long hikes.
2. Exterior Pockets and Pass-Through Storage
I love the smart pocket setup on my Kelty Redwing 50. The signature wing pockets on each side let me stuff gear through to the main space. My water bottles fit great in the dual side pockets, plus I can reach them while hiking.
While the original version of the Kelty pack had a front stash pocket that used a hook closure for quick grabs, they, for some reason, did away with it, and now you only have a top pocket that holds small items I need fast as well as a zippered front pocket to quickly access gear you need.
The pass-through storage works like magic for my hiking poles and tent parts. Each pocket serves a clear purpose — the organization keeps my maps and tools in place. The side compression straps hold everything tight at 50 liters total space.
This pack gives me 5 exterior pockets to organize my prepping gear just right.
Kelty Redwing 50 Durability and Build Quality
I tested my Kelty Redwing 50 on rough trails for six months, and it still looks brand new. The 420D polyester fabric stands up to scrapes against rocks, while the zippers and straps stay strong even with heavy loads.
Materials and Reinforced Components
The Kelty Redwing 50 stands strong with its 420D Small Back Stafford polyester body. The spring steel frame pairs with HDPE to create a solid backbone. YKK zippers boost water resistance on all pockets.
The bag weighs just 2.44 pounds, making it light yet tough for long trips.
This pack proves its worth through smart design choices. The reinforced bottom takes hard hits from rough ground. Stress points stay secure with double stitching. The carry handles feel solid — perfect for quick grabs between hikes or travel. You have quality and comfortable shoulder straps as well as solid buckles.
The external frame supports heavy loads up to 50 liters without sagging.
Kelty Redwing 50 Versatility in Use
I use my Kelty Redwing 50 for everything from weekend trips to a daypack for walks through the woods.
The travel pack moves with me from hiking trails to day trips with the family without missing a beat — it fits right in at campsites and city streets alike.
While I love camo, this duck green color doesn’t give off a “tactical” vibe, which allows me to blend in with the crowd (and I’m cool with that).
Hiking, Backpacking, Travel, and Everyday Applications
The Kelty Redwing 50 serves me well on various trips. My latest adventure took me to the back country for camping with this 50-liter pack. The U-shaped zipper made quick access to gear simple during the 2-mile hike from the front and sides of the Kelty pack.
This pack holds up great for both short day hikes and 3-day trips into the backcountry.
This versatile pack works as carry-on luggage, too. The external organizer pocket keeps travel items handy. The lightweight 2.44-pound design includes mesh water bottle pockets, and an AMP-flow ventilated back panel for comfort.
The FIT-Pro system lets users adjust the torso length fast. The tough materials handle rough use while staying under 2.5 pounds total weight.
Pros and Cons of the Kelty Redwing 50
I tested this 50-liter pack on multiple trips and found clear strengths and some limits. My favorite features include the FIT-Pro system that adjusts perfectly to different torso sizes, plus a well-padded hip belt for heavy loads.
At 2.4 pounds, this internal frame backpack stays light while holding enough gear for a 3 day pack.
Some drawbacks exist in the materials used — though durability hasn’t been an issue in real use. The pack lacks a built-in rain cover, which means buying one separately for wet weather is necessary (and I would definitely recommend it, they’re cheap on Amazon like this one).
Overall, this pack delivers solid value for preppers needing a reliable bug-out bag or 72-hour kit.
Is the Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack the Best 3 Day Pack?
I honestly love this new pack. I can’t speak highly enough about it.
In fact, if it weren’t for Garry Marr of Tremis Dynamics, I would have never even known or considered this 3-day pack option (so, thank you, brother, for the recommendation).
The Kelty Redwing 50 stands out as a top choice for 3-day packs or even as a bag for travel. My field tests show this 50-liter pack handles loads up to 40 pounds with ease (and even comfortably if you pack it a little heavier).
The FIT-Pro system fits torsos from 15.5 to 21 inches fast.
This 50L backpack strikes a perfect mix of space, comfort, and smart design. Quick access pockets, strong zippers, and comfy straps make it shine for hiking and travel needs.
The AMP-Flow back panel keeps air moving during long hikes. At 3 pounds 15 ounces, it stays light on tough trails and is truly a comfortable pack.
The Kelty Redwing 50 backpack proves its worth through smart features and solid build. The hybrid U-zipper makes gear access simple from the top or sides. The 3051 cubic inch space holds enough gear for extended trips. And if you’re thinking about getting one — just buy it, you won’t regret it.
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