Lowepro has teamed up with adventure photographer Chris McLennan to create four new travel-friendly Pro Trekker II backpacks. The quartet shares a handful of core features, including an emphasis on easy carry-on adaptability for when you need to get out of town. Individually, the appeal of the second generation of Pro Trekker bags ranges from casual hiker to serious explorer.
The Pro Trekker BP 350 AW II is the most compact bag in the lineup, perfect for light travelers wanting to maximize space. In it you can organize a DSLR or mirrorless body with 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached and 4-5 additional lenses using its MaxFit divider system. A 15" laptop and 10" tablet fit into CradleFit sleeves, while a perfectly sized, removable gearbox reduces clutter by providing a place for cables, cards, batteries, and other smaller items.
On the exterior, quick-release accessory straps and removable tripod cup will keep your spare legs in place, a gear attachment system allows you to add additional SlipLock modular components if needed, and a zip stash pocket provides quick access to a phone, ID card, or other small items without having to open the rest of the bag. The waist belt is removable and the harnesses are stowable for streamlined carry-on. Low-profile handles further expand carry options. An AW cover is provided to protect your gear in case of inclement weather.
The Pro Trekker BP 450 AW II adds additional space while maintaining many of the core features of the BP 350. The camera capacity of this bag includes a DSLR with grip and 300mm lens attached and 5-6 additional lenses. All of the abovementioned features of the BP 350 extend to the BP 450, as well.
The Pro Trekker RLX 450 AW II incorporates a roller case design to the carrying capacity of the BP 450. A retractable handle and heavy-duty ball-bearing wheels make it even easier to wheel your gear around airports to save your back some aching. Otherwise, its features are consistent with its stationary cousin.
For adventurers who really need to haul gear, the Pro Trekker BP 550 AW II provides the most storage space of the new Trekker bags. It is capable of carrying 2-3 gripped DSLRs, up to a 400mm f/2.8 lens, and 4-6 additional lenses. A modular design means the top of the bag can be detached to make the two bags carry-on friendly: the main bag fitting in an overhead bin and the smaller bag fitting under a seat.
In it for the long haul, the BP 550 includes an ActivZone back panel, external pocket for a hydration reservoir, and removable waist band with zip pockets. Like the bags mentioned above, it also includes CradleFit sleeves for tech gear, a removable gear box for accessories, attachment points for SlipLock modular components, tripod support, and an AW cover.
Which of the new Lowepro Trekker bags appeals to you? Let us know in the Comments section, below.
