Kelty Redwing 36 – 36 Liter Internal Frame Backpack for Hiking, Backpacking, Travel, Carry-on Compatible, Hip Belt, Customized Fit, 2023 (Lyons Blue)

You can get better ones, of course, but you'll pay a lot more for them. This one is very comfortable to wear and it should last a long time. The only issue is that the frame has an arch to it. It fits the back very well but the way a water bladder fits over it it takes up a lot of space in the pack.

I chose this bag as an EDC. Personally 35 to 40L is the volume that will fit my stationary, laptop, accessories, food, water for the daily grind, while having reasonable spare space if I need to put in some groceries.My negatives:My main disappointment is the material. While by no means filmsy, I would prefer a higher denier. However, it withstand light showers. The benefit is a lighter weight, which I think will be a definite benefit for day trips involving more intensive walking.The many positives:The backstraps are nicely padded, not pretend padded from many of the mainstream brands. Load lifters are a very welcome addition at this price point. The internal frame design is also a personal preference. I find that having a more rigid body, I have to wiggle less when carrying a bag. I have a thicker neck and narrow sloping shoulders, so for myself this type of design tends to cause less neck pain.After comparing different types of bags, I find that the sloped top secondary compartment works well. It is similar to climbing bags such as Arcteryx Konseal 40. Compared to the Arcteryx Konsealm this pack is superior in the form of a slightly more contoured back panel that helps with air circulation. But like a backpack review I recall reading previously, I don't think there exists many backpanel designs that will completely prevent a soggy back when carrying a backpack at load and reasonable intense movement.I liked the 2 generous side zip compartments. To me keeping items secure is more important than quick access, which is why I didn't mind that access to the expandable elastic rim pockets below the side zip pockets could be blocked by the zippered pockets - those that need to reach for water bottles or some items might find it difficult. The placement of the pockets (both the top and side ones) made the pack "flatter", which I thought made load distribution more suited to me as most of the weight is closer to my centre of mass.It really is a pity that there are very few avenues to check reviews of equipment after long term use. More often than not initial impressions can change, and only time will tell if features and construction are indeed as favourable.However, having said that I am currently very happy with this backpack after about 1 months use. The slight imperfections completely outweight the many good points I am seeing at this stage.

Really nice pack with all the convenient features shown in the video. In Kelty tradition, very well made and comfortable. Nice color too, not too bright but colorful.

There isn't anything about this backpack that I don't like. I've been using one like this (40 L) and a 44L for years. I used the 44L for work during the past 12 years and it hardly shows signs of wear. The zippers and straps still function like the day I bought it and the fabric, although a little soiled, has no rips or tears. The 40L was given away to a child. I used that one as a weekend day pack. I absolutely expect to get the service out of this new one that I have had with the others. The one feature of all of them that has really proven to be useful is the side and top zippered pockets. I used them for safety glasses as well as earbuds, etc. You can't go wrong with Kelty backpacks..

Very lightweight and versatile. Great with both large and small load.

Like the frame which is comfortable and solid and sits well when I wear it. Has plenty of adjustment to fit my large size body and looks like it will carry most of my gear on my trip to Europe. Material seems a little flimsy in spots and it remains to be seen how it will hold up after using it more extensively. That is why I am giving it four stars and because some of the main areas are somewhat difficult to get at. Will update it later in the year as I use it more often. I like the look of the pack and its ability to hold a lot and it looks like it will be acceptable for carrying on a plane. I'll update as i explore more.

used tis pack for a high elevation day hike (12 miles round trip) - great features and comfortable fit. Highly recommend!

I was looking for a new day pack since the 30+ year old Lowe Alpine pack I had was starting to dig into my shoulders and mess with my neck muscles. That old pack was just a bag with side and top pockets and no internal frame. Upgrading to a pack with an internal frame puts the weight on the hip belt and off my shoulders resulting in pain free hiking. Takes some adjustment and getting used to but so far so good and I'm looking forward to more hikes. This Redwing pack has a very similar configuration of side and top pockets so I just transferred my pack staples over and was off and walking. I like the pass through for poles as well and will be bringing ours along more often because of that feature. So far great pack, hope it and I hold up another 30 years.