Kelty Backpack FAQ

A brand name with a solid reputation for reliable products, Kelty backpacks and outdoor products have been around for over 50 years. From its beginnings in the garage of founder Dick Kelty, the company continues to create innovative gear that caters to camping and hiking enthusiasts.

With an impressive range of backcountry and trail backpacks, child carriers, external frame backpacks, daypacks and youth backpacks, Kelty workmanship ensures that your gear is good for the long haul. If not, then check out the warranty and return information for any problems that arise.

Kelty Lifetime Warranty

Original owners of Kelty gear can take advantage of the company's lifetime warranty for its products against defects in workmanship and materials.

Normal wear and tear problems are not covered in the warranty, including zipped out zippers, damage due to weather or furry animals, abuse beyond the pale or homemade alterations.

Return For Repairs

Check with customer service first to enquire about repairs, warranty or spare parts. Use the telephone or email below for a 24 hour response. That might lead you to the right answers faster.

For U.S. customers, there are two options if you need to return your Kelty backpack to the manufacturer for repairs. All returned products must first acquire a Return Authorization Number.

For repairs covered under the warranty, original owners can either get service at authorized Kelty dealers or contact the Customer Service Department to obtain an official Return Authorization Number.

Complete the Return Authorization Form (ask for one or download from Kelty website) and enclose it with your defective product. Be sure to clean the pack properly or it will be returned without anything done. Try to mark the bad spots with masking tape, rubber bands or other method. Photos are an option too.

Write a letter with the pertinent information if a form is not available.

Kelty staff inspects your returned product and determines if it is defective or needs repairing. For defects, the company replaces or repairs the pack free of charge. Service not covered under the warranty can be completed with a reasonable charge. The company may call you first, if not ask about the options.

Turnaround times for repairs once Kelty receives your item varies during the calendar year. Peak season is from April to September, when repairs take up to three weeks. Fall and winter months are faster.

Customer Service Contact

Shipping Policy

Kelty only covers return shipping charges by ground for all items covered under the warranty. Owners are responsible for sending the item to be repaired to the company with a tracking number and insurance to cover lost packages.

Kelty Backpack FAQ: How To Tips

How To Choose A Pack Size

For many pack buyers it is difficult to choose the right size from the numerous choices of quality gear. Kelty makes some suggestions based on various factors, including season, amount of typical gear load (ultralight versus ultraheavy), the length of trip and the type of terrain covered.

Two considerations to remember: winter trips require 1000 to 2000 cubic inches more than summer trips and top-loading internal frame packs usually have a collar that extends for additional space.

How To Fit A Backpack

Photos: ©Kelty Packs