Booq Python Slimpack Camera Backpack Review
If you’re in the market for a professional caliber camera backpack, the Python Slimpack is compact, functional, stylish and versatile. As a photographer, you should always try and pack light. But sometimes that just isn’t possible and the Python Slimpack offers you great protection and some decent space in a relatively low profile backpack design. I found it comfortable to wear, works well for both backpacking or urban travels and more importantly feels like my camera equipment is well-protected.
The Python Slimpack has a great look with it’s grey and black ballistic nylon. The interior is bright red to provide some contrast so you can actually see what’s in there since most camera equipment is black. It is constructed of water-repellent coated 1680D ballistic nylon and also comes with a removable rain poncho (that doubles as a reflective layer) to cover your pack in more intense downpours.
It’s designed to handle 1-2 DSLR cameras, 4 mid-size lenses, 1 large zoom lens, a tripod and up to a 10″ tablet in the back section of the pack. The main compartment is accessible via two zippers around the inside where your back would rest as well as a quick access area at the top of the pack. Heavy duty zippers and zipper tabs give you confident movement and are anti-theft lock ready. Secured to the inside of the Python Slimpack is the Terralinq™ serial number upc badge in case you lose your luggage it can be returned to you. It’s not foolproof but just one more way to find your luggage in the event it gets lost. Simply register your unique serial number with booq.com and if ever reported lost, your bag can be returned to you. Total weight for the Python Slimpack is 2.43 lbs.
The Python Slimpack feels well-made and solid. Ergonomic shoulder straps conform to the body to keep you comfortable while a familiar backpacking style waist belt and chest strap help to stabilize any lateral movement to keep you agile. There are two convenient pocket sleeves located on both left and right shoulder pads that you can use for sunglasses and your smartphone.
The large side pockets zipper open to reveal an array of sleeved, meshed and zippered areas to conveniently hold your cables, keys, pens, in-ear headphones, memory cards lens caps… anything that can remain relatively flat when packing. There’s even a convenient little detachable FOB ring.
A handle topside allows for easy carry when off your back and a zipper around the top section gives access for quick storage. The Velcro fitted divider walls are moveable to whatever configuration fits your needs best.
My favorite feature of the entire pack, aside from the look and feel of the water-repellent ballistic nylon, has to be the tripod holder on the back of the pack. It’s perfect for a lightweight tripod or monopod and you can tuck it away when your not using it.
If I had to complain about something it might be that the pocket sleeves that are located on either shoulder strap are not large enough to hold my Galaxy S4, but an iPhone 5s will fit just fine. An actual pocket you can snap shut would be great, at least for one side. Additionally, when you have something in the tripod slot, laying the bag down on it’s back to access the main compartment isn’t very easy to do.
Conclusion
The Python Slimpack is an excellent choice for any traveling professional or avid amateur photographer that wants a well-constructed camera backpack but likes to try and travel light without sacrificing storage space or quality. It’s weather protected and durable with it’s ballistic nylon weather coated construction.
Python Slimpack Compact Camera Backpack
available for $145.00 from booqbags.com
