If this is the size and format solution you need, it's a great backpack. It is my primary main bag at this point, and when I travel, is what I carry on the plane with me. As a backpack such as when hiking, though, I don't think it's the best solution. For that, I use a ThinkTank Speed Freak. Because this bag holds a computer (up to a Dell 8600 size), it is a great travel solution if the camera part is big enough for you. I can get a (all Nikon) D200, D70, 70-200 f2.8, 12-24 f4, 18-200 VR, SB-800, CP8400, spare batteries, chargers, filters, and a few other accessories in the main compartment. I don't put anything in the ouside pocket to get on a plane, as then it's too thick for the overhead. This bag will fit under the seat in every plane I've been in, including commuter's. It will fit in every overhead except the commuters. These appraisals are with a computer in the bag, too. You WILL get flagged by TSA, as there is just too much stuff in a bag like this. But I've never been delayed, just had them look through it for 1 or 2 minutes. What I've heard is if you have a lot of stuff, and it's NOT organized in a bag like this, that's when you may have more trouble. If you have more equipment than I do, possibly the Plus version would be better. But, keep in mind that one will be too big for some airlines for a carry on, especially international. Also, this one is VERY heavy when fully loaded, so the Plus would be just that much heavier.
In terms of what the bag is "intended" for, backpacking or hiking, I at least would not use it for that. I want more instant access and you have to take this off to get at anything. When full, this bag is VERY heavy, and if you were hiking or backpacking you DON'T need that much equipment. If you think you do, you will simply be very unhappy IMO. Further, you won't take a computer on a hike (well, I certainly don't), and the computer pocket just adds thickness (at least 2 inches even when empty) if not carrying a computer.
But as a primary storage solution and travel solution, I like this bag.
The AW cover is fine and well designed, but since I don't use it for hiking I probably will never use it. But it's nice to know it's there and it takes up literally no room.
It's made very well. It's been on at least 6 trips and looks brand new. It's very excellent protection for the computer and the main compartment (altho' the ouside pocked isn't padded). The straps are comfortable, and up to the task when fully loaded. The dividers are very flexible, and you should be able to make it work for any equipment that will fit inside. I have never received any hassle from TSA when carrying this bag full of gear.
I also have a LowePro Sideline shooter (smaller waist bag that I've actually outgrown), and that has been a great bag for me, too. Just to say that bag has been through the wringer, and still looks great and works great. Lowepro makes quality stuff.
Would I buy the Computrekker AW again? For travel, probably. Although for that I might consider one of the rolling options by Pelican or Lowepro instead, altho those are all larger and that I wouldn't like. I would also consider the ThinkTank Airport bags instead, too.
This is a great bag if it's the right style for you. There's absolutely nothing wrong with the design or construction of the bag. Just think about what you really need before you buy anything, as there are a ton of great choices out there, of which this is certainly but not the only one.
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This thing needs a manual! I ordered it after realizng that my laptop and my camera were never going to get along in normal briefcases, backpacks, or photo bags. I started searching the net for combination camera and computer bags and this is where I ended up. The bag arrived today and it exceeds expectations. The product description did not communicate to me that there is a roll-up waterproof cover that comes out of the bottom of the backpack to cover and protect the backpack in the rain (why doesn't my backpacking pack do this????). The product description does not do justice to the wealth of pockets that are on the front of the bag. About 85% of the depth of the pack is consumed by the camera equipment compartment. The remaining 15% is dedicated to the laptop compartment. Not a problem unless you were hoping to carry 2 laptops in that compartment. Can't wait to trave with this. This is going to be great!!!
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The camera compartment is this bag is good, holds an EOS 20D with an attached 70-200 f/2.8l IS USM, and room for more lenses. There is also enough clearance to permit the battery grip. If you plan on using this with a laptop I would not recomend it. If you have a widescreen laptop (ie Dell Lat 800/810, Insp 8500,9500, etc) the zipper barely closes, with one corner pushing out on the zipper, necessating the Computrekker AW Plus. If you have a smaller laptop, you should be okay. However, unless you have an ultra-thin laptop, the compartment isn't thick enough-it's tight enough that the screen will be pressed into the keyboard, scratching the screen. Also, the corners of any laptop could come in contact with the zipper area where there isn't padding. If you drop this case, your laptop could get a cracked corner. This case isn't an all-in-one solution to the laptop & camera combined. Again, it's fine for camera/lenses, fits decently, doesn't scream camera inside. The laptop compartment however could be used for folders, papers, etc.
Honest reviews on Lowepro CompuTrekker AW Camera Backpack -Black
The Lowepro CompuTrekker AW is a great bag! When I first received it, I realized it was much larger than I expected. However, once I started using it, I realized that it is designed very well. I enjoy photographing/video taping my baby daughter. I'm able to fit my SLR with a few lenses, video camera, digital camera, film, and all the associated accessories with ease. I currently don't use the laptop slot, but I thought that would come in handy for holding books/manuals/maps/etc. When I do eventually go into digital, I'll have that space for a laptop. The straps are extremely comfortable and the tripod holder is a nice added touch. I hope not to get caught in severe weather, but it's nice to know there is the all-weather (AW) built-in cover.
Overall, the bag is well-designed. It is well-padded, has enough pockets for accessories, and comfortable. The only drawback is the size, but then again, you can't really go smaller to carry what I carry. If you want to shave weight/size, consider the standard mini-trekker without the laptop pocket.
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Lowe (who KNOWS ergonomics when it comes to packs) has a real winner with the computrekker. I also own the SlingShot 100. Why own two bags?I bought the computrekker first then realized:
It's too big for a field bag. In the field, quick access to my gear is cumbersome at best. You have to take the bag off to get to the stuff. Photo-ops don't wait for you to take the bag off and get the camera and the lense and flash.
Also the tripod attachment system is a bit complicated to untangle once you get your tripod on. I don't use the 'beaver tail style' fold down holder.
I'd redesign it closer to the ice-axe handle loops on expedition bags. I just use two adjustable tension bungie straps to hold my lite carbon field tripod.
The computrekker carries everything I need when I TRAVEL on mass transit or car. Cameras, lenses, flashes, tripod, cables, cards, batteries, books, magazines, ALL fit wonderfully and are well protected. And it easily rides with me on an airplane. No need to carry separate laptop and camera bags.
But when I get to my destination, I transfer whatever I will need for the day in the field to the SlingShot 100. The slingshot doesn't have a tripod holder, but I just drop one leg through a loop on the bag and secure with smaller bungee.
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Update June 2008:
After at least a year of using this back it is still holding up well. I have to say that I have actually taken it on hikes to falls and cliffs. And again, it is not that well suited for backpacking. It is still great for transporting stuff when traveling (planes, trains, autos), but into the woods I'd leave it at the hotel or in the car. Besides I would not carry my laptop into the woods. Just bring more memory cards and have a camera with a large LCD.
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UPDATE JULY 2008
So, I'm selling this bag. It is still in great condition and a top notch performer. I have my eyes set on the LowePro Rover. I am going to Kauai in October (the wettest place on earth) and I want total waterproof protection for my gear. This computrekker will serve some lucky buyer well!
