When it comes to backpacks designed for photographers, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack has quickly become a fan favorite. With its blend of innovative features and thoughtful design, it has earned high praise from those who need to carry fragile equipment safely while staying organized on the go. But is it truly the best backpack out there? Let’s dive in and explore its design, functionality, and whether it’s worth the investment.
Design and Features
The Peak Design Everyday Backpack was created with photographers in mind, but its versatility means it appeals to anyone in need of a well-constructed, feature-packed daypack. With quick access to compartments and plenty of options for organization, it’s ideal for those who need to swap gear quickly, be it a camera lens, a tripod, or extra batteries.
One standout feature of this backpack is its ability to expand. Despite being relatively compact, it offers generous storage space that can be adjusted to fit your needs, all while maintaining a sleek, professional look. The design of the backpack is so unique that almost every aspect feels like a fresh take on traditional backpack designs.
Specifications
The 30-liter version, the one featured here, is designed with a few key specifications:
- Dimensions: 20″ height, 13″ width, 8″ depth
- Capacity: 18 liters (when not expanded) to 30 liters (when fully expanded)
- Weight: 4 lbs, 7.5 oz (2.02 kg with all accessories)
- Price: $290
Though not the lightest or the cheapest pack, the weight is justified by its robust build and the cushioning required to protect sensitive gear. The fabric used is weather-resistant, ensuring your equipment stays safe, whether you’re caught in the rain or drop your bag on a hard surface. Additionally, the zippers are water-resistant, further enhancing its protective features.
Shoulder Straps and Comfort
The shoulder straps of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack are among its most notable features. Unlike most backpacks, these straps are not fixed; instead, they are mounted on a rotating disc, allowing them to adjust to the angle of your shoulders. This makes the bag incredibly comfortable for those with different body types or sloped shoulders. No more uncomfortable pressure points after a long day of carrying gear.
The bag also features a sternum strap and a detachable waist strap, which can be stored neatly when not in use. These additions further improve the pack’s comfort, especially when carrying heavy or bulky items. The back panel is padded and designed to promote airflow, which is a nice touch for long days of use.
Laptop and Tablet Compartment
The Everyday Backpack offers excellent organization, including a dedicated sleeve for a laptop up to 15 inches, as well as a tablet sleeve. There’s also a small, handy compartment at the top for things like chargers, pens, or headphones. This system ensures that important accessories are always easy to grab, without needing to rummage through the main compartment.
Magnetic Top Flap and Expansion System
One of the most innovative features of this backpack is the top flap, which uses a magnetic latch called MagLatch. This mechanism allows for one-handed access, and it is secure enough to keep everything in place. The flap can be expanded using a height-adjustment system that increases the backpack’s capacity by 12 liters, providing extra space when you need it. However, it’s worth noting that the pack’s 30-liter capacity can feel a bit tight, especially when compared to other bags that claim the same capacity but offer more room.
Side Zippers for Easy Access
The side zippers on the Everyday Backpack are another highlight, as they provide full access to the main compartment. The flexibility of these zippers allows you to quickly grab or rearrange gear without having to take off the bag. This feature makes the bag feel more like a messenger bag in terms of accessibility while maintaining the comfort of a backpack.
The Flexfold dividers inside help you customize the space to your needs. Whether you’re carrying camera gear or other fragile equipment, these dividers protect everything from bumps and scratches. Plus, the interior is soft and velvety, making it ideal for sensitive items.
Versatility and Extra Features
This backpack is not just for photographers. The adjustable side straps make it easy to carry items like a tripod, yoga mat, or even a rolled-up sleeping bag. The bag also includes a key clip and a few extra organizer panels for smaller items like memory cards or cables.
Although the side pockets could be bigger, they still provide enough space for smaller items, like water bottles or snacks. These pockets close with magnets, making them easy to access when needed.
For security-conscious individuals, the Everyday Backpack also features semi-lockable zippers. While not foolproof, this system adds a layer of protection, especially in crowded places, preventing casual theft attempts.
The Downsides
While the Peak Design Everyday Backpack has a lot going for it, there are a few drawbacks to consider. First, its price and weight are on the higher end. The robust design, with thick fabric and padding, contributes to its weight, making it heavier than most similar-sized backpacks. For those carrying lighter items or looking for a more minimalist pack, this might not be the best choice.
Additionally, the structure of the bag means it doesn’t compress, so you can’t shrink it down when it’s not fully packed. This can make it feel bulky when carrying fewer items.
Lastly, the padding around the lower back area could be improved. It tends to create a “shelf” effect that may press into your body, especially when wearing a thick belt. A simple redesign to taper the cushioning could solve this issue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is an impressive piece of gear. It stands out in the world of camera backpacks due to its combination of thoughtful features, such as adjustable shoulder straps, quick-access side zippers, and a versatile expansion system. It’s particularly ideal for photographers or anyone needing to protect fragile equipment while staying organized.
However, its rigid structure and heavier weight mean it might not be the right fit for everyone. If you’re just carrying lighter, softer items, you may find it a bit overbuilt for your needs. But for those who need a well-designed, durable, and flexible bag, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is hard to beat.
If you’re a photographer, this backpack is certainly one of the best options on the market, offering features and protection that will make it a staple in your gear collection for years to come.
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