I’m always on the hunt for the ideal camera bag, trying out various options along the way. Does this Wandrd Transit Travel Backpack, packed with numerous pockets, come close to hitting the mark?
The market offers many travel bags designed for photographers. I’ve tested several and rarely encounter one that’s disappointing. However, some do have flaws, like a recent bag I received from a promotional company that had significant design issues. They acknowledged the feedback and promised improvements.
While high-end bags generally ensure equipment safety and security, the Wandrd Transit Travel Backpack maintains these standards within its price range. Despite these strengths, I’m yet to discover a flawless bag. With such tough competition, does this one offer any standout features?
Features of the Wandrd Transit Travel Backpack
As a high-quality travel backpack, the Wandrd Transit is water-resistant and built with multiple access points, including front and side openings. It sports twin shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and numerous YKK zips that provide secure access to the many compartments.
Constructed with heavy-duty, smooth vinyl material, the backpack’s back, sides, and top are sturdy. The bottom, back, and straps use a durable woven finish that resists water. Thick ergonomic padding lines the back and shoulder straps, while the bottom has thinner padding to shield the contents from impacts.
The front panel offers two sizable compartments with weatherproof zips. The left compartment fits my tablet, and the right side divides into four smaller sections. A long zipper allows the bag to expand, and additional side zips provide access to the main compartment. A quarter-length pocket and strap on one side enable tripod or water bottle storage, while a water bottle pocket sits on the other side.
A hidden pocket behind the padding secures essentials like a passport or emergency cash, while a bottom zippered compartment stores a rain cover. Strong carrying handles on the top, bottom, and side increase handling convenience. Unique zipper pulls with a click-and-twist mechanism allow for secure attachment to other zips or padlocks, enhancing security.
Interior Layout
The main compartment, accessible from the front or sides, features a light gray lining to improve visibility. Smaller Velcro-sealed pockets on the sides and mesh pockets (two small on the sides and two large inside the lid) offer additional organization. A hidden tracker pocket sits within, and the front liner separates from the main compartment to reveal a laptop section.
This bag uses high-grade, durable materials with neat stitching. After a 30-second shower test, it stayed dry, indicating its water-resistant properties. It may not withstand canoe trips, but it’s suitable for heavy rain with an optional rain cover.
In-Use Experience
Comfort Level
Bag comfort varies among users. It sat well on my back, though I noticed the shoulder straps touched my neck slightly. My wife, who’s smaller, didn’t experience this issue. However, we both felt the bottom carrying handle pressing into our backs while wearing light clothing, though this wasn’t an issue with a thicker coat.
Practical Functionality
With a 35L capacity, this bag fits travel or street photography needs but may be too small for wildlife photographers who require the larger 45L option. Its length accommodates my OM System 150-400mm lens but not with the camera attached. The numerous pockets demand an organized approach, as remembering every storage spot can be challenging. Yet, the zipper pulls are large and glove-friendly, and the double zips offer enhanced security.
An expansion section allows capacity adjustment from 30L to 35L, adding versatility.
Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Positives:
- Sturdy construction
- Extensive storage options
- Weather-resistant
- Subtle, non-camera-bag appearance
- Secure design
- Light gray interior for visibility
- Three access points to the main compartment
- Ethical manufacturing claims
Suggested Improvements:
- Wider shoulder straps for greater comfort on larger users
- A redesigned bottom carrying handle to avoid back discomfort
- Clear sustainability data and specific environmental targets
Final Thoughts
For travel, this camera bag performs well, offering a balance between accessibility and security, with decent weather resistance. Although it’s not flawless, few bags are. This backpack falls short in comfort due to minor design flaws—namely, the shoulder strap placement and bottom handle—but for those who prioritize pockets, it’s an ideal choice.
The Wandrd Transit Travel Backpack 35L, available in Black and Wasatch Green, costs €299, with the larger 45L version priced at €329.