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I have used LowePro camera bags and rolling cases for many years. My favorite of all time is the Mini Trekker AW Backpack which has accompanied me on trips to four continents during which it has endured salt water, snow, heavy rain, hail, and countless trips in airline overhead compartments. The bag has never failed me and has always kept my expensive DSLRs and lenses safe and secure.
So, I was excited when LowePro announced a totally new sleek, outdoor-inspired daypack, offering multi-functional carrying options and secure gear access for beginner or casual photographers. It is called the Photo Hatchback 22L AW. It also comes in a shorter version, the 16L AW.
In my view, a good camera backpack should have the following characteristics:
- It should be light weight. When one walks a good way to do photography, every ounce counts.
- It should extremely durable. Its materials should withstand repeated use under adverse weather and travel requirements.
- It should be flexible, allowing for multi-functional options.
- It should fit in an airline overhead compartment or under an airline seat.
- It should allow me to pack what I require for a successful day of doing photography.
- It should be comfortable to wear, and easily adjusted to fit myself or a member of my family.
When the LowePro Photl Hatchback 22L AW arrived, I was truly surprised at how light weight the bag is. At 2.1 pounds, the bag weighs less than my Nikon D800 DSLR! Yet, despite its light weight, it is made of some pretty tough material. The zippers are of the finest quality (YKK) and the bag material is made of Polyester PU, Nylon Single Ripstop PU and Air Mesh. Padding is incorporated into the straps for day-long comfort when carrying. And, importantly, it has an all weather cover stored in the bottom of the bag which can be quickly deployed to cover the bag during inclement weather.
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So, the bag lives up to the reputation of LowePro which has been known for years to make the best camera bags one can find.
This bag is designed for beginner or casual photographers. It is not intended for use by a professional photographer who has tons of gear. The bag is best suited for someone who wants to securely carry a small DSLR and one or two lenses. That said, what impressed me was that the bag easily accommodated my Nikon D800e and a Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 T* lens quite handily, leaving room for a spare battery, lens cleaning wipes, filters, a bubble level, a microfibre towel, with lots of room for other stuff. The camera section of the bag has a removable padded tray which serves to protect the camera equipment securely. The tray has its own weather cover! I am impressed by the attention to detail that LowePro designers have applied to this bag. The padding section cover even has a small compartment for storing SD cards.
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Access to the camera section of the bag was a bit of a surprise. One gets to the camera section via the body side of the bag. This is unique and I wondered why it was designed that way until I gave it some thought. First, the access cover is heavily padded for two reasons. One is comfort in carrying the bag, but innovatively the cover also provides extra protection for my expensive gear! Thus, the padded access cover and the padded camera tray mean my gear is padded in every direction. Cool.
But why access through the body side? Then it hit me. The engineers who designed this bag know what it is like to be on the trail. When one gets to a good location, the first thing one normally does is remove the backpack and sit in on the ground, a rock, or a handy picnic table. I have done worse. So, with the AW cover in place, my bag is protected from the elements when I open the camera access because the AW cover is keeping moisture, dirt, mud, and other stuff from adhering to the bag. Now that is smart design. Moreover, LowePro has incorporated two straps with velcro fasteners that allow one to secure the weather cover easily to the top of the shoulder straps. While others might overlook this, I loved it because the cover on my older LowePro AW was always slipping off.
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The camera storage tray can be easily removed, providing one with plenty of options for packing other gear if one is not doing photography.
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A divider separates the camera compartment from the storage area at the top and it can be adjusted to expose the camera tray compartment. If the camera tray is removed, one has a very large bag for a trip to see grandma with a weekend supply of pants, shorts, shirts, and toiletries. In other words, the bag is immensely adaptable. It would be perfect for the graduate student at Georgia Tech as a backpack for school gear.
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The front of the bag has two access compartments. One opens to a large compartment where one can store a jacket, trail bars, a thermos, or whatever one might want while hiking. It is perfect for an emergency blanket, a first aid kit, a small flashlight, my iPhone, my wallet, my keys, a knife, a sandwich, trail bars, or an extra pair of socks!
Likewise, I could easily fit an Ergo Rest Multi-tripod in the top compartment. One cannot do decent landscape photography without a tripod. Small ones are made which can be stored in the bag or in one of the stretch pockets on the outside of the bag.
But, it does not end here. A second compartment can be accessed from the front which is large enough to house an Apple iPad or MacBook Air computer, along with the charging cables.
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And, there is another compartment which includes a zippered pocket with built-in key fob and two stretch-mesh pockets, suitable for one’s iPhone, wallet, and kleenex.
The front carrying straps have loops for attaching a GPS, or whatever one wants using a carabiner. On each side of the bag are tall, stretch-mesh side pockets which supply ideal storage for water bottles, or extra gear you’ll want on the trail.
The bag comes in two configurations. The 16L which is designed for a DSLR with attached 18-55 zoom lens, plus 1-2 extra lenses or flashes, plus Tablet in front pocket, and the 22L designed for a DSLR with attached 18-105 zoom lens, plus 1-3 extra lenses or flashes, plus Tablet or Macbook Air in front pocket.
From my experience, this bag would be perfect for a micro-four thirds camera system and could easily accommodate a camera, and four lenses. Or, it would easily accommodate a Canon 5D Mark III and a 24-105mm zoom lens, or a Nikon D800 with one or two prime lenses. In a pinch, one could carry a 300mm lens in the upper compartment if stored in a protective lens case.
I could easily pack my Fujifilm X100, a spare battery, a small tripod, lens cleaning gear, battery charger, bubble level, external shutter release, iPad, cell phone, four water bottles, a GPS, a first aid kit, space blanket, and extra socks, for a long walk in the American Southwest – all in a package that would weigh in at less than 10 pounds.
In sum, this bag is made for a light weight camera system for use while wondering through Venice, or down a short trail in Scotland. It is the perfect “street” bag because it looks like a common backpack, hiding the fact that one has $5,000 worth of camera gear inside. Light weight an flexible, it has endless uses, for photography, for a short weekend trip, or for every day use at college.
And, by the way, I love the pepper red color of my bag. Why pepper red? Because when one is wondering around in the hills, it is a good idea to be seen, it is just another added safety option that one might want to consider. It comes in Slate Grey and Galaxy Blue as well.
The Field Test
Early yesterday morning I grabbed the Photo Hatchback and headed for one of my favorite places for doing photography – Honeymoon Island.
I stopped by a spot made famous by Steves-Digicams, known as “Sail Honeymoon.” I love the spot because it is old Florida, nothing pretentious, just a great spot to stop and have a cup of coffee or rent a kayak.
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It was certainly a good spot to match the colors of my bag with unique surroundings.
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While there I met a nice lady who was interested in my bag. So, I asked her to try it out. “Gosh this is light,” she said, “and very comfortable.”
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Of course, my purpose was doing photography. So, as the early morning sun struck the kayaks, I could not resist framing a photo or two.
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As I worked, I appreciated the way the bag is designed with the camera compartment situated such that I can lay the bag down with the AW protective cover on the bottom providing access and protection to my gear at the same time.
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Later, I used the bag to steady my tripod, an old trick I learned many years ago. Just hang it from the center column and it keeps the tripod good and solid in the wind.
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Thus, giving me the chance to get the shot I wanted.
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As I roamed the beach, I appreciated the comfort of the Photo Hatchback, especially when I had to move quickly to capture the fisherman and the magnificent sky!
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In future days I hope to use the Photo Hatchback for long journeys into the natural world. I am planning a trip soon to the Yorkshire Dales in the United Kingdom. The bag along with my Nikon D800e and the wonderful Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 T* lens will be a great combination, just as it was yesterday.
What’s in my bag?
Day trip in remote area, wishing to travel light:
In camera compartment -
- Fujifilm X100
- Spare battery
- Two 32GB SD Cards.
- Bubble Level
- Very small collapsable tripod
- Lens cleaning wipes
- Microfiber Towel
- External shutter release
- ND Filters
In upper storage area -
- Sunglasses
- Jungle Hat
- iPhone
- Wallet
- Keys
- Several Trail Bars
- Two 500ML water bottles
- Space blanket
- First Aid Kit
- Flashlight
- Disposable cigarette lighter or water-proof matches
- Small knife
- Extra pair of socks
- 20 feet of parachute cord
- Gloves
- Fleece or jacket
- Small umbrella or rain proof jacket
- Kleenex tissues
- Sanitizing wipes
- Plastic trash bag
- 4 foot by 8 foot plastic sheet (as ground cloth)
- Passport in zip-lock bag
In zippered pockets -
- iPAD and SD Card Adapter (purpose is to review photos as they are taken)
- OS Maps of the area
- Camera manual
On shoulder strap -
- GPS held with carabiner
In two flexible outside pockets -
- Two 500ML water bottles, or
- One 500ML water bottle and one small tripod
Day trip in close area, or city:
In camera compartment -
- Nikon D800e
- Spare battery
- Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 T*
- Bubble Level
- Lens cleaning wipes
- Microfiber Towel
- External shutter release
- ND Filters
- Two 32GB SD Cards
In upper storage area -
- Sunglasses
- iPhone
- Wallet
- Keys
- Flashlight
- Extra pair of socks
- Gloves
- Fleece or jacket
- Kleenex tissues
- Sanitizing wipes
- Plastic trash bag
- Passport in zip-lock bag
In zippered pockets -
- iPAD and SD Card Adapter (purpose is to review photos as they are taken)
- Maps of the area
- Camera manual
In two flexible outside pockets -
- One 500ML water bottle, and
- One small umbrella, or one small tripod
Ratings:
- Build Quality – Five Stars *****
- Weight – Five Stars *****
- Flexibility/Adaptability – Five Stars *****
- Design and Function – Six Stars ******
- Size – Five Stars *****
- Weather Protection – Five Stars *****
- Comfort – Five Stars *****
I highly recommend the LowePro Photo Hatchback 22L AW for anyone who is looking for a light weight flexible camera backpack. I have not encountered another camera backpack that is better designed or offers as much flexibility of use. My compliments to LowePro.
The Photo Hatchback 22L AW retails for $119.00 and can be ordered at the LowePro Website.
22L Specifications
Weight: 2.1 lbs; 1.0 kg
Camera Compartment Interior: 8.9W x 4.5D x 7.7H (in) 22.5W x 11.5D x 19.5H (cm)
Exterior: 11.4W x 9.3D x 19.9H (in) 29.0W x 23.5D x 50.5H (cm)
Exterior Fabric: Polyester PU, Nylon Single Ripstop PU & Air Mesh
Interior Fabric: Polyester
Hardware: YKK Zippers
Colors: Pepper Red, Slate Grey, Galaxy Blue
Hi Bill,
Thanks for the great review! I will be travelling to Panama and Costa Rica soon with my new Nikon D5100 and 18-105mm. I know that these fit in the camera section, but it is moisture and rain that I am worried about. Do you think the material and rain cover would be adequate to repel even the heaviest Costa Rican downpour?
Thanks!
Sam
Hi Sam,
The rain cover does a great job, however, having spent time in Panama when I was in the Army, I can state categorically that you will need a “water proof” bag. I would not recommend this bag for such a trip. It is built to withstand a light rain, not the sort of thing you will encounter in the jungles.
Best regards,
Bill
hi bill,
great review.
just bought a new camera and am in need for a backpack, i am very pleased with the orion trekker which holds my dslr and additional gear.
i’m in doubt in which photohatchback to choose from.
i’m average with 6’2″
main gear is the nikon 1 v1 with 10-30 and 30-110. the charching device also has to be included. at a later date i could add one lens, spare battery and maybe the flash in the future.
i will use this bag alot and esp when making one day trips where the bag can be carried fully loaded, lets say lunch, 3x500ml waterbottles, all day long, books, ipad, spare clothing
which photohatchback would you suggest?
Hi Marcel,
I would suggest the 22L AW for you due to your height.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
Thanks for the suggestion and quick response.
Best regards,
Marcel
Hello Bill,
Great review.
Would a 13 air AND regular ipad fit in the front section?
Would a regular ipad fit in the internal back pouch of the top section?
Thanks
LK
Hi LK,
A 13 inch air and a regular ipad will not fit in the front section. The iPad will, the 13 inch air would be a problem.
A regular iPad might fit in the top pouch but I would not recommend it.
The bag is made for a regular iPad, anything larger will not fit in the padded pockets.
Best regards,
Bill
Thanks for the speedy reply!
By the way….AWESOME photos on your site! WOW!!!!
I like your review. I am looking for backpack for my RebelT4i, with Tamron 28-300mm, Canon 10-22mm, Fix 50. Is it fit my stuff? Thank you very much.
pim
Hi Pim,
Thomas has provided the dimensions:
16L – Camera Compartment Inner Dimensions:
7.68W X 4.33D X 5.9H in./
19.5 X 11 X 15 cm
22L – Camera Compartment Inner Dimensions:
8.86W X 4.53D X 7.68H in./
22.5 X 11.5 X 19.5 cm
Hope this helps.
Bill
Hi, Friends,
Can you please suggest me for my equipments what should I choose 16L AW or 22L AW?
I used: Canon 550D with 18-135mm lens, 50mm f1.8, Sunpak PZ42X Flash.
Hi Sumanta,
If you are tall, order the 22L AW, if female or shorter order the 16L AW.
The camera compartments are the same size in both units and your equipment should fit either one.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill
First, thank you very much, for the detailed review – that made the difference for me, in choosing a good travel/camera-bag.
I would just correct you a bit – the camera inner compartment in the 16L aw & 22L aw, aren’t quite the same zise…
16L – Camera Compartment Inner Dimensions:
7.68W X 4.33D X 5.9H in./
19.5 X 11 X 15 cm
22L – Camera Compartment Inner Dimensions:
8.86W X 4.53D X 7.68H in./
22.5 X 11.5 X 19.5 cm
My camera with lens, is 22cm in length, so I couldn’t put it the 16L
Thanks again, for a living written blog.
Hi Thomas,
Thanks for correcting me! I may have mislead others with my comments.
I appreciate your comment, it will be greatly helpful to others.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill. Thank you for a great review of the bag. Just the kind Im looking for. But do you know if this bag will carry a canon EOS 600D (rebel T3i) with a batterygrip attached?
Thank you
Hi Soren,
It probably will, but it will be tight with the batterygrip attached.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill, thanks for the review as we were looking to get new bag for wife. Will a DSLR w/28-135mm, extra lens and 430EX II flash fit the Hatchback 16L AW size bag?
Hi BT,
Yes, it should fit. Depends on the extra lens size. I can fit a Nikon D800, Zeiss 21mm lens, and have room for more gear.
One user reports that he uses a Nikon D90 with 18-105 lens, and this setup occupies about 75% of the space inside the compartment.
This bag is intended for a casual user with a small DSLR and perhaps one lens mounted, a small spare lens should fit fine. As to the flash as well, I simply cannot advise.
Best regards,
Bill
Thanks Bill. We found a local camera store that has both models in stock so we’ll go check out the 16L for fit.
Hi, according to Lowepro’s website, there is a (really) small difference in the camera compartment sizes in the two models (it’s written in the Specifications tab of each product page), for those wondering what they can fill in there, you may try to build a scaled paper box to see for yourself.
I have a question, is it possible to fit an A4 sized folder in the tablet compartment? I can’t find this information anywhere.
Thanks for the great review!
A4 is 11.7 x 8.3 in. Yes, that will fit, however, how thick is the folder? I can easily put a standard sized piece of paper 8.5″ X 11″ in the compartment. If the folder is larger, you may have a problem as the zippered opening will not stretch. For example, I tried to put a box of 8.5″ X 11″ photo paper in the sleeve and it will not fit, and the box is only about .75″ thick. In sum, no I don’t think the folder will fit.
Best regards,
Bill
Thank you very much for a very helpful and comprehensive review of the Photo Hatchback 22L. Like you mentioned in previous response to comments I would be very happy if I can fit my gears in the 16L since I am all of 5’4″ only. But I would like to make sure that the 16L will be able to carry a Nikon 800E with attached 24-70 f2.8 lens and a Nikon SB900 flash. Will very much appreciate your advice. Thanks in advance.
Hi Angel,
Yes, I think you can fit your gear in the 16L. The camera compartment is the same size in both bags.
Best regards,
Bill
Great review, i think this is the bag for me but i was wondering if maybe the 16l version would be enough for me as a casual user, My camera is a canon eos600d twin lens set……………….do you think the 16l would be ok or would the 22l be better……………thanks
Hi Julie,
I recommend the 16L for females, due to the length. I am 6′ 2″ and the 22L fits me fine but if I were shorter, say about 5′ 10″ the smaller bag would be preferable. The camera compartment is the same size in both bags.
Best regards,
Bill
After reading your review, and visiting a local store, I think I’m set on this bag. I thought I’d mention that in the shop, the “grey” bag seemed to have a green tinge to it. Not sure if it was their lighting, but I’m set on the Blue now.
Thanks for the help.
Hi there!
Thanks for this very great review, very interesting!
I would like to get this hatchback for my dslr video set, which includes a laptop.
Do you think the 22L could carry a macbook pro 13,3″ ???
thanks a lot!
Hi Axel,
The Macbook Pro 13″ dimensions are: Width: 12.78 inches (32.5 cm) Depth: 8.94 inches (22.7 cm) Height: 0.95 inch (2.41 cm). The opening for the laptop compartment is roughly 8″ – so considering the depth and the thickness (.95 inch) of the Macbook, my best judgment is that it will not fit.
It will accommodate a Macbook Air or a full-size iPad nicely.
Best regards,
Bill
Hello Bill,
I was wondering if my 5D classic with my 24-70mm lens will fit in the bag? great review, I couldn’t imagine a backpack that could fit so much stuff. I was also planning on bringing my minolta in my pack…is that an option with this ?
Thanks!
Hi Christina,
Yes, the 5D and your lens will fit. You should have room for a small camera as well.
Bill
Hi Bill, I’ve just seen this bag online, and agree it’s gonna be one of the good backpack around. Can check if it can fit in D700 & 28-300 in the main camera compartment??
Hi Oshot,
The D700 and the 28-300 would not fit well. The bag is designed for smaller gear. It will accommodate my D800 and a wide angle lens, but a zoom, no way. That is, unless I unmount the lens and try to fit them in the compartment separately, but given your stuff, I just don’t think that you would be happy.
Bill
Hi, Bill!
I’m Julia and I’m writing to you from Ukraine
I’ve been looking for such a bag for a long time and while searching I have found your review.
The bag is quite small, pretty and comfortable in use, I think.
But I’ve got two questions,
– what do you think, will it fit my nikon D7000 camera with nikkor 85 or nikkor 135 lens?
- and another questiong, is it comfortable to get the camera or lens from the bag? the section is placed on the back, and usually (in other models) it’s in the front. is it comfortable to put smth into or get smth from the section, while working/walking?
Thanks a lot!
Julia
Hi Julia,
WOW, the Ukraine! A place I want to visit.
Yes, your camera and lens will fit in the bag.
It is comfortable to get the camera from the bag, it is in the back, just lay the bag down on its front and you can unzip the camera compartment easily.
Depending on your height I would recommend the 16L if female. I am tall, 6’2″ and the larger bag fits me perfectly.
Good luck in your decision.
Bill
Bill,
thank you very much for the prompt reply and explanation!
I live in Poltava town, if you decide to visit Ukraine someday it will be nice to meet you
I recommend to visit country in may – beautiful blossom everywhere and warm weather or in august-september if you travel to the black sea – beautiful places and not many tourists.
Yes, I was just thinking of 16 L, because it’s smaller, but was doubting about the capacity. Now you are saying that it will be ok with my cam and lens, so I’m not worrying any more.
Bill, have you found any alternative to carry a tripod? How do you carry it, if you do?
I’m going to buy a tripod 58 centimetre in length (when closed), so now the question is how to carry it with this bag
Regards,
Julia
Ah the Black Sea, I must go!
The bag has two water bottle holders on each side. A smaller tripod can be inserted in one of them, then tie the top of the tripod to the carrying handle. This is not the best solution, but it will work. LowePro did not design the bag for more than casual use. While it is well-made, its function is for the casual shooter who wants to go light and carry a couple of water bottles and perhaps lunch in the top compartment, along with a light jacket or such.
You might be better off with another of LowePro’s offerings. Many of their bags have provision for attaching a tripod. Sadly, it is not on this bag.
Best regards,
Bill
Thanks, you helped me a lot!
Other offerings are not as pretty as this one
so I’ll be thinking,
thanks again, and have a nice weekend!
Best regards,
Julia
Hi Bill,
Thanks very much for a great review. I know you get asked this all the time, but I need to determine what the size of the camera compartment is – there is not a lot of information I can find regarding its dimensions. Would a 5D MkIII with battery grip or 1D MkIV fit?
Appreciate your input!
Thanks! Manfred
Hi Manfred,
Either the 5D Mark III (with battery grip) or the 1D Mark IV, will not fit the camera compartment unless one takes off the lens and places the camera body flat. I would not recommend this bag for either camera. It is designed for a Rebel XT sized camera and small zoom lens. My Nikon D800 does fit, but snugly with my Zeiss 21mm T* lens mounted. You would be better off with a bag made by LowePro which is designed for larger gear.
Best regards,
Bill
Thanks for the great review Bill. The only info missing (or maybe I overlooked) is whether the iPad compartment is padded or not… especially the front part of the bag. I would be most appreciated to know. Thanks.
Hi Crepu,
The iPad compartment is padded.
Best regards,
Bill
Thanks for your very thorough review! I think this bag is just right for me, but I’m not sure which size to get. I would really appreciate the extra space in the upper compartment, but how does the 22l version (especially the camera compartment) perform, when it’s not fully loaded? What if you’d pack just one or two lenses. Besides, I have a very compact Micro Four Thirds camera (E-P3) and some equally small lenses. Is it even possible to get a snug fit with the 22l and that little equipment? I haven’t found a local dealer to get a first hand impression…
Thanks!
Hi Stefan,
I think the camera pouch should accommodate your needs regardless of which size you choose. The 22L is designed for larger people like me, I am 6 foot two. If you are shorter I recommend the 16 L.
Best regards,
Bill
I didn’t considered that. I’m 5 foot 11. I guess that’s too small!?
Thanks again!
Hi Bill, many thanks for this extensive review, great job!
I was looking for a camera backpack and your review timely comes.
My only concern is how to fit a tripod? I want to carry mine that is a Manfrotto 290, do you know if there is any possibility? For that purpose I was almost in with the Tamrac evolution, but it the Lowpro does the job I would go with it.
Thanking you by advance for your advice.
Norbert
Hi Norbert,
One of my wishes for this backpack would be some means to carry a tripod! But, frankly, I see no way to do it except to tie it to the bag using parachute cord. A really small tripod might fit in one of the side pockets which are intended for water bottles or a thermos.
If you want to carry a tripod, I would recommend that you consider one of LowePro’s other offerings, many of which have straps for tripods.
If carrying a tripod is a major issue with you, this bag is not for you, and I would not recommend that you buy it.
Best regards,
Bill
BTW, Norbert, I have written LowePro about adding two simple sleeves on one side of the bag for a tripod. It would be easy to add with little cost involved. I have also recommended that the camera pouch be modified to allow one to carry a camera mounted with a telephoto lens. Of course, LowePro has such offerings in other bags, I think their intent was just a “day” pack for the occasional photographer, it was never intended to be a professional bag.
Bill
Many thanks Bill for your quick answer. You’re totally right, it is mostly a day pack that probably explain the lack of some features available on “higher level” backpack. But reading your last comment, I think that adding simple sleeves on one side of the bag to carry a tripod is even something easy to do by yourself… Or just ask an old grandma who has seamstress skills…
I will go and check this backpack in store and see…
All the best,
Norbert
Hi Norbert,
You read my mind. I have thought about doing the same thing. Even two velcro straps would work, easy to sew onto the bag.
I have successfully used parachute cord to tie my small manfrotto tripod to the bag. Of course this is not the best solution, especially for a long walk.
Best regards,
Bill
Bill,
I want to my camera store today to have a look at this bag. Actually there is two pockets on the sides, so I tried to put one leg of my tripod in the pocket, and like that a single and simple velcro on the top to maintain the tripod works fine (cause the bag is pretty high). They had only the “red” one, i will go back next week to pick up a black/gray one…
BTW where are you living, Bill? If you come to Calgary (we never know… please let me know, I would be glad to offer you a beer to chat a little about photography…
Cheers, Norbert
Will do Norbert. Calgary is on my bucket list. Must get up there to meet Darwin Wiggett. Will take you up on a beer and a chat!
Best regards,
Bill
Hey, thanks for a great review. Will booth bags fit a 13″ Macbook Air?
Hi Tommy,
The 22L should accommodate the Macbook Air, I don’t believe that the 16L will. Both will accommodate an iPad.
Best regards,
Bill
Great review, nice pictures!
I liked the feature 22l and 16L AW straight away.
But is it a good option for a backpack vacation?
For daytrips, when my main backpack is in the hotel or hostel, it seems perfect.
But when I’m travelling I need to wear it as a frontback. Don’t know if it’s to big, of just not comfortable enough. Any ideas? Or alternatives?
Regards,
Jaap
Hi Jaap,
If you remove the camera pouch from the bag, and open the top pocket by undoing the velcro attachment, the bag becomes a fully functional backpack with room for lots of gear.
I just tried using the bag as a front pack, and while it works, it is not really designed for that purpose as the straps are designed to be worn on the back, not the front. I have a similar interest in wearing the bag as a front pack while I am kayaking, but I think I will have issues as the 22L may be too long.
Wish I had a suggested alternative for you. Perhaps you can find a local dealer who has a 22L and try it out first. That would be my recommendation.
Best regards,
Bill
Great review, purchased a 22L AW the other day and it arrives tomorrow, can’t wait. Thanks.
Fabulous review! I was ready to purchase an REI day pack (my husband uses one for his tree service gear) and then came across your review. I LOVE the design but not sure about the fit. I’m 5′ 5″ and 110 lbs. The pack looks rather large on the woman you photographed (great perspective, thanks). I’m a hobbyist so won’t carry a lot of camera gear but also don’t want to sell myself short. I’ll measure and consider sizing but if you have any further thoughts on fit I would be most appreciate to know. Thanks so much!
Stunning image of the surf fisherman!
Hi Darris,
I would recommend the 16L AW bag, it is six inches shorter. It has all the same features as the larger bag.
Thanks for your kind comment.
Best regards,
Bill
Thanks Bill!
Will the 16L fit a 7D+24-105mm?
Yes it will.
Best regards,
Bill
Bill, you write a great review. I keep coming back to read and to look at your photos of the bag. And so it is time to write something, you have a super site, keep up the good work.
I always think that I have the perfect bag, but I think I will take a serious look at the Photo Hatchback.