Over time, I have become something of a camera bag snob. My tastes tend towards being rather particular when selecting camera bags; thus when Manfrotto asked me to test something from their PRO Light line, I enthusiastically accepted.
The PRO Light series was designed with traveling photographers in mind, featuring numerous storage options ranging from backpacks and slings to hard cases and roller bags. Recently I had the chance to review their Flexloader Backpack L (26.5L). This bag has become my go-to camera bag over time!
Size Contrary to its name, I would not describe the Flexloader Backpack 26.5L as lightweight. When empty, it weighs only slightly less than my massive and rugged first edition Lowepro Whistler BP 450 AW at 6.68 pounds and features exterior dimensions of 22x14x13.8 inches making it quite bulky (sometimes literally).
My camera backpack stands out in my small frame (5’6” and 130 pounds), and often causes people to mistake me for someone else, accidentally clipping people with it or making tight spaces tricky if worn (e.g. packed elevators). While it fits nicely into airplane overhead compartments it certainly won’t fit under seats on most planes (I attempted this once on one full flight without enough overhead capacity; obviously this took up all my legroom).
Capacity of the PRO Light Flexloader Backpack L Although its bulk can be cumbersome, its capacity more than makes up for it: this backpack holds plenty of gear! According to Manfrotto’s specifications, there is enough space in this PRO Light Flexloader Backpack L to carry a full-frame mirrorless or DSLR with attached 70-200mm f/2.8 lens; two to four additional lenses (such as 14-24mm and 24-70mm lenses) as well as batteries and additional accessories – I never travel this light – however! I brought my Sony A7 III with 24-70mm lens attached (70mm f/2.8 lens); second camera with kit lens attached kit lens; two or four more lenses plus batteries; batteries, drone, batteries – with plenty of extra room left.
