As our travels and gear collection grew, finding a suitable way to carry our photography equipment became a necessity. After pushing our old shoulder bag to its limits, we realized it was time to look for something more practical and comfortable. Enter the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III – a camera backpack designed to make travel and photography easier and more efficient.
Let’s dive into why this camera backpack has quickly become one of our favorite travel companions.
Overview
Lowepro is a well-known brand in the photography world, and the Fastpack BP 250 AW III lives up to its reputation. This bag strikes a balance between being a functional daypack and a travel bag, designed to hold your camera gear while also providing ample space for personal items. It’s a great option for photographers who want to carry their gear without sacrificing comfort or style.
Materials
The Fastpack BP 250 AW III is crafted from Ripstop nylon, a high-quality fabric that prevents tears from spreading, and features a water-repellent PU coating. This combination makes the bag highly durable and resistant to the elements, so you don’t have to worry about a little rain or dirt. The backpack also comes with a waterproof rain cover, providing extra protection if the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Its tough build makes it perfect for both urban adventures and outdoor use, whether you’re exploring the city or heading out on a short hike. However, if you have a large hiking backpack, be aware that the clip might be too small for wider straps.
Features and Size
The backpack is divided into two main compartments: the top section for personal items and the bottom section for your camera gear. The gear compartment is well-padded with dividers, ensuring your camera, lenses, and accessories stay safe. It’s large enough to fit a mirrorless or DSLR camera with two lenses, an action cam, a microphone, a power bank, and spare batteries.
The top compartment is spacious enough to hold a packing cube with enough clothes for a weekend getaway. There’s also a 15” laptop compartment, which is a bonus since the bag is advertised as only fitting up to a 13” laptop. Along with that, the backpack features a large front pocket for additional storage and a side pocket that can hold either a water bottle or a tripod.
Despite its size, the bag is surprisingly lightweight at just 1.2 kg, making it easy to carry all day. The adjustable shoulder straps ensure comfort, and the small belt and chest straps help distribute weight when the pack is fully loaded. However, if you’re after a more discreet bag, the Fastpack BP 250 AW III might not be the best option. Its size and design will certainly make it stand out, though it doesn’t look like a traditional camera bag.
Best Use
The Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III is designed as a hybrid travel and camera bag. It’s perfect for photographers who want to travel light without sacrificing their gear’s safety. We’ve used it alongside other luggage for trips, and it works great as a compact option for carrying gear and personal items. It’s also cabin-size for most airlines, which makes it practical for air travel.
For longer trips or when you need more space, the Fastpack BP 250 AW III is also suitable for short hikes and weekend camping trips, thanks to its durable construction and weather-resistant materials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ample space for personal and camera gear
- Modular and easily accessible gear compartment
- Spacious laptop sleeve
- Durable and weather-resistant materials
- Rain cover included
- Comfortable to carry for long periods
- Lightweight despite its size
- Cabin-sized for easy travel
Cons:
- Larger than typical daypacks, which may not suit everyone
- Not the most discreet design
- The gear compartment is spacious but could be larger
- Some larger shoulder straps may not fit
- Price may be higher than other options
Is This Backpack Right for You?
If you prefer traveling with multiple bags and are looking for a dedicated camera gear backpack, the Fastpack BP 250 AW III may not be the best fit. It’s larger than other options specifically designed for camera gear, and if you only need a camera bag, there are more compact alternatives available.
However, if, like us, you prefer to travel light and don’t want to carry an additional bag, this backpack is ideal. It provides plenty of space for your camera gear, personal items, and even a laptop, all while keeping your load comfortable and manageable. It might be slightly oversized for everyday use, but the advantages it offers make it a worthwhile choice for travelers who need both functionality and convenience.
In conclusion, the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III is a versatile and practical backpack for those who need to carry both photography equipment and personal items. Whether you’re a traveler, photographer, or both, this backpack is designed to meet your needs and offer a comfortable, easy-to-carry solution for all your adventures.
