Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera Backpack Review

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Having been a photographer for over two decades, I’ve come to understand that carrying my gear and keeping it organized isn’t just about convenience, it’s a vital aspect of my work. That’s where the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera Backpack comes in. This camera backpack is the silent work horse behind the scenes and I am thrilled to share my experience with it.

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is a robust, spacious, and versatile camera backpack that has been designed to accommodate a photographer’s needs. It’s a step up from the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW, which has been my go-to camera backpack for almost 5 years.

What Makes a Good Camera Backpack?

A good camera backpack needs to be more than just a storage space for cameras and lenses. It should protect your gear, provide easy access to your equipment, and be comfortable to carry.

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II ticks all these boxes and more. It is not just a camera and lens backpack, it is a mobile workstation. With its customizable interior, it can comfortably house all my gear, including my DSLR, multiple lenses, a drone, Go Pro kit, laptop and many accessories. Its sturdy exterior offers optimal protection, while its various access points allow me to quickly grab my gear whenever I need it.

But what sets the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II apart from other camera backpacks is its comfort. The ActivZone™ system provides targeted support at shoulder blades, lumbar, and waist for comfort on the move. This makes it the one of the best camera backpacks for those long photo shoots and outdoor trips.

Upgrading from the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW Camera Backpack

I’ve been using the Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW for almost five years and it has served me well. It’s robust, versatile, and has a decent amount of storage space. But as my gear collection grew, I found myself needing a little more room.

Upgrading to the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II was a natural choice for me. Not only does it offer more storage space, but it also comes with some notable improvements. The 450 AW II has been redesigned for better organization, access and protection, while staying true to the ProTactic promise of rugged versatility and armored protection.

The transition from the 350 AW to the 450 AW II was seamless. The familiar layout made it easy for me to organize my gear, and the additional space was a welcome upgrade. The 450 AW II feels just as robust, if not more so, than the 350 AW.

Experience with the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera Backpack

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is a top-notch camera backpack that offers an impressive combination of storage space, protection, and comfort.

The main compartment is spacious and customizable, with padded dividers that can be rearranged to fit any combination of gear. It can comfortably fit a DSLR with attached lens, 1-2 additional lenses, a flash, a drone, and other accessories.

In terms of protection, the 450 AW II is top-notch. The FormShell™ technology provides a lightweight yet sturdy shell that protects your gear from impact. The All Weather AW Cover™ keeps your gear safe from the elements, while the CradleFit™ pocket suspends and protects your laptop.

Comfort is another strong point of the 450 AW II. The ActivZone™ system provides targeted support for your back and shoulders, making it comfortable to carry, even when it’s fully loaded. The waist belt is removable and adjustable, providing additional support and comfort.

Why Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is the Best Camera Backpack

In my opinion, the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is the best camera backpack for several reasons.

Firstly, it offers a great deal of storage space without being overly bulky. It can fit all my gear comfortably and still has room for additional items. Its customizable interior makes it easy for me to organize my gear exactly how I want it.

Secondly, it offers excellent protection for my gear. The robust exterior and padded interior keep my equipment safe from bumps and knocks. The All Weather AW Cover™ protects my gear from rain, snow, dust, and sand.

Lastly, it’s incredibly comfortable to carry. The ActivZone™ system provides targeted support for my back and shoulders, allowing me to carry it for extended periods without discomfort. The adjustable waist belt provides additional support and distributes the weight evenly.

How to Maximize Your Photography Experience with Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is more than just a camera backpack, it’s a tool that can enhance your photography experience.

To get the most out of it, I recommend using the customizable interior to organize your gear in a way that makes sense to you. This will allow you to quickly and easily access your equipment when you need it.

Also, make full use of the exterior attachment points. You can attach additional items like a tripod, water bottle, or even a small drone to the outside of the backpack, freeing up space inside for your cameras and lenses.

And finally, don’t forget to use the All Weather AW Cover™. It can protect your gear from the elements, ensuring that you can continue to shoot, no matter the weather conditions.

What Fits – Cameras, Drone, Lens, and Many Accessories

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II can fit a surprising amount of gear. I typically carry a DSLR with an attached lens, 1-2 additional lenses, a flash, a drone, a laptop, and various other accessories like memory cards, batteries, and cleaning tools.

But the beauty of this camera backpack is its customizable interior. You can rearrange the dividers to fit your gear perfectly. This means you can adapt the backpack to suit your needs, whether you’re shooting a wedding, a wildlife documentary, or a landscape photography project.

Features and Specifications

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is packed with features that make it a standout camera backpack.

• Capacity: 1-2 Pro DSLRs, one with a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached, up to 8 lenses, flash, gimbals, action camera, laptop (up to 15″), drone, and accessories
• Total Volume: 25 L
• Exterior Dimensions: 36 x 22 x 52 cm (14.17 x 8.66 x 20.47 in)
• Interior Dimensions: 30 x 16 x 44 cm (11.81 x 6.30 x 17.32 in)
• Weight: 2.84 kg (6.26 lbs.)
• Material: Nylon
• ActivZone™ system for targeted support
• FormShell™ technology for lightweight protection
• All Weather AW Cover™ for protection against the elements
• CradleFit™ pocket for laptop protection
• SlipLock™ system for exterior attachment points
• Two quick-access side doors, top access door and one full-access back panel for easy access to gear

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera Backpack

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is an exceptional camera backpack. It offers a great deal of storage space, excellent protection for your gear, and is incredibly comfortable to carry. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a passionate hobbyist, I highly recommend the 450 AW II. Upgrading from the Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW to the 450 AW II has been the perfect move for me. The additional space and improved features have made my work easier and more enjoyable.

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is more than just a camera backpack, it’s a tool that can enhance your photography experience. And for that reason, I believe it’s the one of the best camera backpack on the market today.

For more info on the BP 450 AW II and other great Lowepro camera carrying gear, visit www.lowepro.com or www.amazon.com.