# Zipper-Free Convertible Backpacks This 50-Liter Backpack From Kelty Has a Removable Front Panel By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2022-04-20 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/convertible-backpacks References: [mountainsforeverybody](https://mountainsforeverybody.com/kelty-pk-50-review) & [kelty](https://www.kelty.com/backpacks/)  Kelty's 'PK 50' is a convertible backpack that stands out from the crowd due to its truly unique design. While there are quite a few convertible backpacks out there that actually comprise a primary backpack and a [central daypack](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/patagonia-refugio-daypack-30l), the 'PK50,' ostensibly named for its 50-liter volume, takes a completely different and innovative route. The front panel of this backpack consists of a 15-liter compartment that can be easily unclipped, reducing the rest of the backpack down to 35 liters in volume. Aside from its convertible mechanism, this backpack is also unique in the design of its suspension system, which revolves around a central panel along the back. Another unique element is the complete absence of zippers, with this convertible backpack instead using an array of [roll-top components](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airback-flex). Image Credit: Kelty ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.4/10 - Popularity: 76% | Activity: 15% | Freshness: 11% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Convertible Backpacks:** The rise of convertible backpacks with unique and innovative designs like the Kelty PK 50 presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for outdoor and travel gear companies. - **Roll-top Backpacks:** The trend towards roll-top components in backpack designs, as seen on the Kelty PK 50, presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for companies manufacturing backpacks and other types of bags. - **Innovative Suspension Systems:** The use of innovative central panel suspension systems in backpacks, as seen in the Kelty PK 50, presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for companies designing outdoor and travel gear. ### Who This Affects Most - **Outdoor Gear:** The convertible and roll-top design trends seen in the Kelty PK 50 backpack present disruptive innovation opportunities within the outdoor gear industry. - **Travel Gear:** The innovative design elements of the Kelty PK 50 backpack make it a disruptive innovation opportunity for companies in the travel gear industry. - **Backpack Manufacturing:** The unique and innovative design features of the Kelty PK 50 backpack present a disruptive innovation opportunity for companies manufacturing backpacks and other types of bags. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Detachable Daypack-Rigged Backpacks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/daypack-travel-backpack.md) - [Versatile 30L Travel Back Packs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/30l-travel-pack.md) - [Multimodal Waterproof Backpacks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/multimodal-waterproof-backpacks.md) - [Vacuum Compression Travel Packs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airback-travel-deluxe-backpack.md) - [Spacious Modular Multifunctional Bags](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/switchup.md) - [Chic Adventure-Ready Backpacks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/long-weekend-morro-convertible-backpack.md) - [Consummate Carry-On Backpacks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/international-travel-backpack.md) - [Amalgamated Adventure Backpacks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/travel-hiking-adventure-backpack.md) - [Outdoor Adventure Commuter Packs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/patagonia-refugio-daypack-30l.md)