Kelty Redwing 44 – Best 2016 Affordable Carry On Bag

This is a follow-up update of my last review for a travel bag for the best travel carry-on backpack, you may read more about that at this link here.

Important Tips For Buying A Good Travel Carry-On Backpack

The standard size for most airlines allowed is no larger than 22″ x 14″ x 9″ ( 55.88cm x 35.56cm x 22.86cm ) for carry-on bags. But I start to realise most airlines today especially the budget airlines are not very strict in following these measures and it is possible to go through as long you make your bag looks compact when you are boarding the plane.

I love to travel and looking for a backpack with the following features can be hard to find.

Large 44 litres for maximum carry on load
Lightweight
Has good suspension system for our back
Lumbar support to transfer the weight to our lumbar area instead of our shoulders
Water bottle holder on the sides
Water resistant
Easy accessible to pack my stuff
Affordable price

Most bags do not actually come with good suspension or back support and that can be problem when it comes to use of your bag for long term use. After a long research I end up picking the Kelty Redwing 44 Backpack (2016)

Kelty Redwing 44 Liter Backpack 2016 Edition

Kelty Redwing 44 2016 Backpack Dimensions

Volume: 2700 in³ / 44 L
Frame Type: Internal
Weight: 2 lbs 10 oz / 1.2 kg
Torso Fit Range: 14.5 – 18.5 in / 37 – 47 cm
Dimensions: 25 x 15 x 12 in / 64 x 38 x 30 cm
( note: can be reduced to 21inch (54cm) height if not filled means carry on compatible :) )

Kely Redwing 44 2016 Features

Dual side pockets
Front pocket with organization
Front Stash pocket with closure hook
Top stash pocket
Side compression straps
Water bottle pockets
Dual use Laptop / Hydration Sleeve
Hide-Away Daisy Chain and Handle
Ice axe/trekking pole loops
Key fob
HDPE frame sheet
Hex Mesh back panel, shoulder straps and waist belt
Padded and ventilating back panel
Sternum strap
Load lifter straps
Single LightBeam aluminum stay
Removable waist belt

My Honest Review On The Kelty Red Wing 44 2016

While this bag states it’s height is 25 inch ( 64cm ) , it is actual height without packing too much into the bag can be reduced to 21inch (54cm) which is perfect for Carry On! Just make sure when you are going up the plane not to filled up the bag beyond the height of the top pocket.

When the new Kelty Redwing 2016, it was mention on their website the height of the bag was increased by 2 inches and it was a big concern for previous owners of the Kelty Redwing 44 which used it often for carry on. I am happy to say for owners of previous models of the Redwing 44 the height still remains the same as the old model.

I did my own review of the Kelty Redwing 2016 and the old model if you keen to look at the differences in the upgrades below.

More Images of This Bag

Other Kelty Redwing Models You Can Consider

Kelty Redwing 44 Backpack Models & Colors

If you do not mind a big bag and wish to take advantage of the all the carry on given to you on the planes I will recommend the following options and colours to choose from.

Kelty Woman’s Redwing 40 Backpack 2016 Models & Colours

For ladies, I would recommend getting the 40 litre pack for better fitting and these are specially designed for woman which are also carry on ready as well.