Lowepro has released two new lightweight backpacks aimed at photographers who need to carry camping gear and camera equipment. The new Rover Pro AW bags have room for a small tent, sleeping pad, tent, trekking poles and clothing – as well as cameras, lenses and flashes.
The bags use a trampoline-style suspension system with breathable mesh to spread the load across the shoulders and provide good ventilation when trekking with a lot of gear. A top loading design offers two-way access to camera and other gear – from the top or the front-hatch opening. A modular camera case slides in and out of the main bag keeping the camera separate from other gear. The modular bag is fully padded and adjustable and can be removed and carried separately to create more space in the main backpack. A hydration side pocket can accommodate an optional two-litre water reservoir. The opposite side of the pack includes a unique tripod attachment system with tarp-like flaps and compression straps to secure gear. There's also a weather-protective cover which also acts as a reflector for enhanced visibility and safety.
Additional features include: trekking pole attachment points; attached top lid with zippered storage pocket; stretchy front stash pocket; sleeping pad/small tent straps at bottom of pack; adjustable waist belt with built-in zippered pockets; compression straps to stabilise gear within pack and streamline the overall profile; and, a dedicated laptop compartment in the larger model.
"We’re extremely excited to offer outdoor
photographers the first real overnight backpack built to protect camera
equipment, provide space for basic camping gear, and deliver the kind of
versatility, support and comfort they require when shooting in the
backcountry," said Tim Grimmer, Lowepro director of product management.
The larger Rover Pro 45L AW retails for $379 can hold a pro DSLR with a fitted 24-70mm lens, plus an additional three or four lenses or flash units. There's also space for a tripod or monopod, two-litre hydration reservoir (not included), a 15” laptop, sleeping pad, small tent, trekking poles and personal gear. The slightly smaller 35L retails for $349.
