Lowepro CompuTrekker AW Camera Backpack (Black)
Lowepro CompuTrekker AW Camera Backpack (Black)
A perfect combination for photo gear and notebook computer, the CompuTrekker AW was designed specifically for digital photographers. Photojournalists and location photographers will find it a great travel companion. The backpackÕs reinforced construction, shock-absorbing closed-cell foam padding and tough, water-resistant outer fabric protects contents from moisture and sudden impacts. The patented All Weather Cover offers maximum protection from extreme weather conditions, dust and sand. A padded notebook compartment is secured with both zipper and quick-release buckle; while the main camera compartment is fully customizable with adjustable padded dividers. A quick-access hide-away Tripod Mount, SlipLock attachment loops and a number of laminated and zippered organizer pockets provide photographers with fast, easy access to equipment.
Technical Details
- CompuTrekker AW Capacity: 1-2 SLRs and 4-6 lenses (80-200mm f/2.8) or compact medium format system; up to 15″ notebook computer; accessories
- Camera compartment is fully customizable for your SLR or Camcorder system, with adjustable and removable padded dividers.
- Hidden built-in tripod holder and plenty of laminated pockets to organize and protect all your cables, wires and accessories.
- Lowepro’s patented All Weather cover to protect bag and contents from extreme weather, sand, dirt, etc.
- SlipLock attachment slots allow you to attach additional Lowepro accessories and pouches to the CompuTrekker AW.
Lowepro CompuTrekker AW Camera Backpack (Black) Review
If this is the size and format solution you need, it’s a great backpack. It is my primary main bag at this point, and when I travel, is what I carry on the plane with me. As a backpack such as when hiking, though, I don’t think it’s the best solution. For that, I use a ThinkTank Speed Freak. Because this bag holds a computer (up to a Dell 8600 size), it is a great travel solution if the camera part is big enough for you. I can get a (all Nikon) D200, D70, 70-200 f2.8, 12-24 f4, 18-200 VR, SB-800, CP8400, spare batteries, chargers, filters, and a few other accessories in the main compartment. I don’t put anything in the ouside pocket to get on a plane, as then it’s too thick for the overhead. This bag will fit under the seat in every plane I’ve been in, including commuter’s. It will fit in every overhead except the commuters. These appraisals are with a computer in the bag, too. You WILL get flagged by TSA, as there is just too much stuff in a bag like this. But I’ve never been delayed, just had them look through it for 1 or 2 minutes. What I’ve heard is if you have a lot of stuff, and it’s NOT organized in a bag like this, that’s when you may have more trouble. If you have more equipment than I do, possibly the Plus version would be better. But, keep in mind that one will be too big for some airlines for a carry on, especially international. Also, this one is VERY heavy when fully loaded, so the Plus would be just that much heavier.
In terms of what the bag is “intended” for, backpacking or hiking, I at least would not use it for that. I want more instant access and you have to take this off to get at anything. When full, this bag is VERY heavy, and if you were hiking or backpacking you DON’T need that much equipment. If you think you do, you will simply be very unhappy IMO. Further, you won’t take a computer on a hike (well, I certainly don’t), and the computer pocket just adds thickness (at least 2 inches even when empty) if not carrying a computer.
But as a primary storage solution and travel solution, I like this bag.
The AW cover is fine and well designed, but since I don’t use it for hiking I probably will never use it. But it’s nice to know it’s there and it takes up literally no room.
It’s made very well. It’s been on 3 trips and looks brand new. It’s very excellent protection for the computer and the main compartment (altho’ the ouside pocked isn’t padded). The straps are comfortable, and up to the task when fully loaded. The dividers are very flexible, and you should be able to make it work for any equipment that will fit inside.
I also have a LowePro Sideline shooter (smaller waist bag that I’ve actually outgrown), and that has been a great bag for me, too. Just to say that bag has been through the wringer, and still looks great and works great. Lowepro makes quality stuff.
Would I buy the Computrekker AW again? For travel, probably. Although for that I might consider one of the rolling options by Pelican or Lowepro instead, altho those are all larger and that I wouldn’t like. I would also consider the ThinkTank Airport bags instead, too.
This is a great bag if it’s the right style for you. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with the design or construction of the bag. Just think about what you really need before you buy anything, as there are a ton of great choices out there, of which this is certainly but not the only one.
