LOWEPRO PROTACTIC BP 350 AW II
£199/$209 Begone bulky backpacks. This Protactic offering is the slimmest in the group, yet with four entry points
Need to squeeze through tight spaces? This slimline backpack has a refreshingly small profile and makes it particularly easy to get at your kit, with no fewer than four ways into the camera compartment, including a full-access main zipper at the rear, plus zippered flaps at the top and at both sides. You can therefore configure it for instant access to one or two cameras complete with attached lenses, plus a favourite accessory.
The main compartment is 26x12.5x40cm and the laptop compartment is only able to take a 13-inch device. A larger 450 AW II version of the backpack is available, with a 31.8x19.8x44cm main section and space for a 15-inch laptop.
Two additional internal zippered pockets are useful for filters, spare batteries, remotes and the like. There are two further outer compartments with zippered access but they’re very small and thin. An extra utility pouch and bottle holder are supplied, which can attach to the many webbed loops around the backpack, or to the waist strap, via Lowepro’s secure Velcro flap-based Sliplock system. The heavy-duty waist strap can work as a standalone utility belt with an internal zippered pocket, external zippered pouch and two loops for attaching Sliplock accessories. The backpack also comes with a tripod cup, two Quick Straps and a rain cover.
Performance
As usual with full access to the main compartment at the rear, it’s easiest to bend the shoulder straps forwards and out of the way before opening the zip. Being deeper at the top, the backpack has a relatively shallow base which makes it prone to falling over.
VERDICT
Slim and easily manageable, this is one of the more conventional ‘full photo’ backpacks in the group, although the four access points to the main camera section is a break from tradition.
This Lowepro is small enough to take anywhere and everywhere, but large enough to hold a mirrorless camera with an attached lens, plus a couple of other lenses and a ashgun.
With security in mind, access to the lower camera compartment is through the rear, which
ts snug to your back when you’re wearing the pack. The top section has some useful space and a neat organizer section for daily essentials. There’s also a pocket for accommodating a 10-inch laptop, and a side mesh pocket for a drinks bottle for that all-important rehydration during a day of shooting.
With exterior dimensions of 42x18x25cm and a weight of 1.65kg, it’s an easily manageable backpack for hauling around, enhanced by padded shoulder straps and a grab handle on the top. Let the ‘adventura’ begin!