A lot of photographers nowadays prefer camera bags that are built to protect gear but barely look like it. This variation of Wandrd's Prvke backpack takes that to a whole new level.
Not too long ago, you'd be able to spot a photographer from far away even when they didn't have their gear out. Camera bags used to be a dead giveaway because of how bulky and stiff they looked. That all slowly changed and allowed photographers to be more inconspicuous when carrying valuable camera gear and at the same time appear more casual. The Wandrd Prvke Zip offers exactly that and a whole lot more when it comes to durability.
The Wandrd Prvke Zip
The Prvke Zip comes in the same highly durable and moisture-resistant tarpaulin-like fabric that makes Wandrd's bags nearly impenetrable to the elements. This is supported by ballistic nylon that prevents moisture from seeping in while being resistant to tears. The key difference with this is that they took away the large iconic handle and roll-top for a more minimalist top zipper that complements the zipper of the front panel of the bag.
The 21L version of the Prvke Zip comes in at 40 x 28 x 14.5 cm, and because this is technically a modular bag that can be used with or without a camera cube, those dimensions cover the entire 21L capacity of the bag. Compared to the standard Prvke backpack, this doesn't have the flexibility in volume that the roll-top offers, but instead it takes a more standard shape and size. When fully empty, the bag weighs 1.27 kilograms due to the dense protective fabric and generous rear and shoulder padding.
Exterior
In front, it features the familiar large zipper that opens up the tall but thin front compartment that can be used for thin or small objects that need to be accessed quickly. This is surrounded by accessory loops on three of the four sides of the front panel. On the right is an expanding mesh pocket that can be used to hold tripods, water bottles, or other cylindrical objects, while on the left is a 22.9 x 13.3 cm side access with the zippers aligned with the opening of Wandrd's camera cubes. This allows for quick access to intentionally placed cameras or lenses without having to open the bag entirely. On the flap of this access door is another small zippered pocket for small accessories that require the same accessibility.
Right behind the nylon handle is a semi-hidden pocket for important personal items. Typically, this pocket would be perfect to store a passport and some cash when traveling because of both the accessibility and the size. Of course, this bag's variant was given its name because of the large top zipper that opens up all the way from the upper third of one side to the same level on the other. This allows for another way to access the main compartment if no dividers are completely blocking access. Alternatively, if being used with the essential camera cube or any other packing accessory that doesn't take up the entire 21L space, then this top zipper gives access to whatever is on the upper part.
On the rear panel is a pair of significantly padded shoulder straps that come with accessory loops as well as attachment points for an adjustable chest strap for more comfortable carrying. This is paired with a breathable mesh padding on the rear panel that is interrupted by a luggage pass-through strap for ease of use with rolling bags.
Internal Pockets
When the largest zipper, which spans three of the four sides of the rear panel, is fully opened, it reveals the large 21L space. However, this is partially covered by a thin nylon sheet that acts as a divider that can be rolled and tucked upwards when fully utilizing the space. On the inner surface of the rear panel are two small and two medium-sized zippered pockets that can be used to store additional medium-sized to small accessories. These can be used for batteries, memory cards, readers, and even coins. However, it is advisable not to fully pack these pockets, as they can bulge into any potential space around them. Behind the small pockets is a laptop sleeve that can hold up to a 16" laptop. This comes with a velcro-lined strap that will secure the laptop from falling out of the sleeve in case of any unintentional opening of the rear panel.
Capacity
When used with the medium/essential camera cube, the Prvke Zip 21L can hold up to two camera bodies with three to four lenses depending on individual size and arrangement. When used with a much larger camera cube that maximizes the 21L space, it can hold up to three camera bodies and six lenses, including a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens. Alternatively, when used with a smaller camera cube, the remaining space above it can be used to store a DJI Mini 5 Pro drone, along with a remote and some batteries.
What’s So Special?
Honestly, if one weren't familiar with such bags, you'd think that it's a regular-looking backpack with a zipper on top for the main access. However, the true charm of the Wandrd Prvke Zip is that it has a lot of intentionally placed pockets and sub-pockets that were made to be seamless with the use of a photographer and/or traveler. The open space makes it easy to be used for clothes and other personal items when traveling, yet it can easily be switched to camera gear mode by using a camera cube. On top of (and literally around) it all, the unassuming exterior is made of materials designed to protect the contents from unexpected exposure to rain and/or dust. When paired with a properly fitted camera cube and dividers, it provides all-around protection for the camera gear without having to be so bulky. The minimalist aesthetic might make it look like it was made just for urban travel, but in reality, it is a bag that can be used for anything and everything, anywhere. If you want to level up the content you create with the gear you carry inside it, consider pairing your kit with The Well-Rounded Photographer: 8 Instructors Teach 8 Genres of Photography.
What I Liked
- Unassuming appearance
- Highly durable exterior
- Thoughtfully placed sub-pockets
What Can Be Improved
- More color options
- Shoulder strap height adjustment
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