When it comes to camera bags for landscape photography, several vital components are needed to ensure they perform as expected. Will this Fernweh 50L bag from WANDRD tick all the necessary boxes? In this review, we will find out!
The order of preference will vary by user. However, if a camera bag covers most, if not all, of these components, it should finish high on the list for consideration, right? Let’s see how this bag stacks up, starting with the one thing that can’t be determined from a spec sheet: comfort!
Comfort and Ergonomics
The manufacturer claims their bag is the most comfortable you’ll ever wear. How do they communicate this? With spec sheets, glossy images, and bold claims that even after hours of use, you won’t feel the effects. WANDRD goes a step further, attaching large tags and labels declaring this is "the most comfortable bag ever."
Words are one thing, but the true test is in wearing it, which you can’t do until you’ve parted with your hard-earned cash. That’s where I come in — to help you decide if this bag is worth considering.
Placing the bag on my back for the first time was an interesting experience. The thick padding immediately contoured to my spine, and the waist straps wrapped snugly around me. Before you think there’s some motor involved, let me clarify: they naturally curve into place due to the design. While reassuring, this design could present challenges when using the bag (more on that later).
The bag sits high on my back, with the waist straps resting on my hip bones. This positioning helps with weight distribution. Once the straps are secured, there’s very little strain on my chest or shoulders. Unlike previous bags I’ve used, this one feels purpose-built for long hikes or extended walks.
There are 3 options available to adjust the shoulder straps, depending on the size of your torso and are easily moved and reattached, although once set up, I don't see there is a need to change them again.
Additionally, there are handles to grab on all rear sides of this bag, top, bottom and left, right, meaning you won't be looking for something to grab when you need to move it or pick it up, handy.
Capacity and Organization
As landscape photographers, we may feel the need to bring all our gear. That means not just one camera body and lens but often two bodies, multiple lenses, drones, filters, tripods, food, water, clothing layers, and waterproof gear. This bag accommodates all of that — and more — thanks to clever design and hidden features.
By default, the Fernweh 50L doesn’t include compartments for camera gear; instead, you choose from different insertable gear cubes at the time of purchase. These range from minimal setups to pro cubes that prioritize space for camera equipment while still leaving room for other essentials. With its 50L capacity, the bag can adapt to your needs. However, you must carefully choose your configuration when buying.
Each internal cube is fully customizable, with dividers to keep gear safe. A padded laptop compartment sits within the rear-opening door and is protected by thick lumbar padding. There’s also a hidden, Velcro-sealed pocket for valuables, perfect for passports or wallets.
The top of the bag includes a separate compartment for miscellaneous items and a key clip to eliminate the frustration of misplaced keys. Additionally, the inner membrane is removable, turning the bag into a single 50L compartment.
At the front, a large section accommodates a water bladder with tubing access points. It’s designed with drainage holes to protect your gear in case of leaks. Personally, I have found using this space to hold waterproofs to be very handy. Behind this section is another zippered access point to your gear cube, although the cube’s directionality means you’ll need to configure it to your preference beforehand.
Side access is also possible through sturdy zippers aligned with the cube’s layout, allowing quick gear retrieval without opening the entire bag. Meanwhile, the opposite side offers expandable storage, though it doesn’t provide cube access. On this access panel is a clear space for your batteries, slots to hold 3 batteries, which will also mean that they are quick access too.
Finally, a hidden zip at the bottom reveals a pull-out flap designed for holding a camping mat or tent — or serving as a waterproof seat when resting outdoors. Throughout the bag, Velcro straps are strategically placed for maximum utility.
Weather Resistance and Durability
When venturing into diverse and often unpredictable environments, a durable bag is non-negotiable. The materials used in this WANDRD bag are designed for resilience:
- N420D HD Ripstop Fabric: This fabric is not just lightweight but also designed to resist tearing. The ripstop grid ensures that even if punctured, the material won't easily tear further.
- 5PM Coating: This specialized coating adds water resistance, meaning your bag can handle light rain or snow without needing additional protection.
- N630D Fabric: This material is used in areas that are more prone to wear and tear, and it reinforces durability.
The zippers are high-quality YKK weather-resistant zippers engineered to keep out dust, dirt, and light moisture. These zippers feel robust and operate smoothly, reducing the risk of jams.
While the bag performs admirably in light rain and general wet conditions, the separate rain cover, sold as an accessory, is essential for heavy downpours. The combination of water-resistant materials and additional protection gives this bag an edge for photographers operating in harsh conditions.
It’s worth noting that drainage holes in the front compartment are a thoughtful addition. They prevent water buildup in case of leaks or spills, especially if using a hydration bladder. Over time, these materials have shown no significant wear, making this bag a long-term investment for outdoor photographers.
Accessibility and Usability
The bag's design prioritizes accessibility, which is a critical feature for photographers. There are four main access points, each catering to specific use cases:
- Rear Access: The rear panel fully opens to reveal the main compartment, making it easy to organize and retrieve gear. This method is particularly useful for landscape photographers, as it keeps the back panel clean when setting the bag down in muddy or sandy environments.
- Top Access: Ideal for quickly grabbing frequently used items, such as a jacket, snacks, or a drone. The top compartment is spacious and features an inner membrane that can be removed to create a larger storage area.
- Side Access: One side of the bag allows for quick access to the gear cube, which is particularly helpful when you need to change lenses or grab your camera without fully opening the bag. This feature is a lifesaver when you’re pressed for time or working in cramped conditions.
- Front Access: Though primarily designed for items like clothing or smaller accessories, this section can be configured to access the gear cube directly.
The gear cube system adds versatility. By customizing the internal layout, you can organize your equipment to fit your workflow. For instance, I’ve configured mine to keep my camera body and two lenses easily reachable from the side while my drone and filters remain in the top section.
The bag's usability is further enhanced by its strap system, allowing you to attach items externally, such as tripods, sleeping mats, or tents. These features make the bag adaptable for both photography and general outdoor use.
Weight and Size
The weight of 5 lbs (2.2 kg) for the empty bag is on the heavier side, but this is justified by the bag's robust materials and padding. The thoughtful design ensures the weight is distributed evenly across your back, hips, and shoulders, making it feel lighter during use.
The bag comes in two sizes:
- Small/Medium (S/M): 25”H x 13.75”W x 9.5”D (64 x 35 x 24 cm)
- Medium/Large (M/L): 26”H x 13.75”W x 9.5”D (66 x 35 x 24 cm)
These dimensions make it suitable for airline travel, though the rigid curve of the waist straps can create challenges in fitting the bag into tight spaces, such as overhead bins or under seats.
For landscape photographers, the bag's size strikes a balance between capacity and portability. It comfortably holds all necessary gear while remaining manageable on long hikes. The bag’s adjustability ensures it fits a variety of body types, and the breathable back panel reduces sweat buildup during intensive use.
One downside is that the fixed waist straps, while excellent for comfort and load distribution, make the bag less compact for storage or transport.
Pros:
- Adaptable Fit: Designed with adjustable frames, straps, and a 6-point system to ensure it suits different body types comfortably.
- Accessible Storage: Four main access points make retrieving gear straightforward and efficient.
- Flexible Design: Works seamlessly with the many inserts for added functionality or as a standalone option for quick access.
- Built to Last: Durable materials and weather resistance make it a dependable choice for outdoor photography.
Cons:
- Premium Price: The high cost, especially with additional accessories, might not fit all budgets.
- Weight Considerations: The sturdy construction likely adds to the overall weight, which could be a concern for some.
- Outdoor Focused: While ideal for the outdoors, it might not be the best fit for casual or city photography.
- Setup Complexity: The range of customization options could feel overly complicated for some users.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Ferweh 50L from WANDRD bag seems to excel in multiple areas, providing a versatile and well-thought-out solution for landscape photographers. Its adaptability and durability ensure it meets the needs of outdoor photography, but there are a few considerations that might affect its usability for some.
The lifetime warranty is a strong selling point, demonstrating the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. It’s important to note that this warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, not damage caused by normal wear and tear or misuse. However, the robust build quality suggests it’s designed to last, even with frequent outdoor use.
The internal cube system, while generally effective, has a notable flaw. The central divider can obstruct the full use of the available space. While the concept of separate top and bottom compartments makes sense for accessibility, it can feel restrictive when you need maximum storage for larger items. This issue could have been addressed by making the divider optional or fully removable for those who prefer an open layout.
Despite these minor shortcomings, the bag performs well across various scenarios. Its thoughtful design, capacity, and comfortable fit make it a reliable choice for long hikes, travel, or even urban photography. While not perfect, the bag covers the essentials most landscape photographers look for, and its flexibility helps it adapt to diverse needs.
In summary, if you prioritize durability, comfort, and functionality in a camera bag, the WANDRD bag should be on your list. The compromises, such as the divider design and the non-removable waist straps, are manageable for most users, especially given the bag’s strengths in other areas. Personally, I think this bag ticks the majority of boxes I value in my photography gear, and I look forward to seeing how it holds up with continued use in the field.
