If you are looking to carry a DSLR, a few lenses and accessories, a tablet, and some personal items, Lowepro has some great bags from which to choose. And if you want to carry all those items in a sturdy yet light bag that is under $80 but not cheap, you’ll want to check out the Nova Sport 17L AW.
Lowepro describes the Nova Sport 17L AW as an “adventure photo shoulder bag for photographers looking to carry their DSLR and essential gear”. It is designed to hold:
- A DSLR with up to 18-105mm lens attached
- 1-3 extra lenses of up to 70-300mm
- A 10″ tablet
- Flash and/or accessories
- Personal items
Lets take a look at the bag on video and then walk through its various features.
I like the combination of light material, solid build, and practical design Lowepro has put into the Nova Sport 17L AW. It is a practical bag that will be quite useful in a variety of different settings. This is particularly the case since the interior camera compartment can be removed so the bag can simply function as a daypack. More on that in a moment.
We’ve seen Lowepro use a variety of different mechanisms for securing the flap on their bags which include one. In this case the flap is secured by two corner straps. Each is a thin but sturdy ribbon material that ends in a plastic clip that requires pressure from both sides in order to release them. Press on one or the other side and the clasp won’t release. That means the bag only opens when you want it to open. That is, of course, a mixed bag since the more secure the contents of your bag the more thought and effort it takes to access them.
Oh, and don’t be put off by the plastic used in this bag’s construction. It is heavy-duty, and it should hold up for the life of the bag.
The back of the bag indicates this is the Nova Sport 17L AW. It also has a thin open pocket that is ideal for a few papers or magazines. A zipper on the bottom lets you can slip it over the handle of a rolling bag. It is one of those small, nice extras that make this bag a pleasure to use!
An elasticized pocket on each side will hold a water bottle of a few small items. Above it is the anchor for both the removable shoulder strap and the not-so-removable grab strap. I don’t see using this grab strap as you might a handle specifically designed for use when carrying a bag, it is more of a quick way to pick the bag up and get moving.
Once both claps are released the flap lifts up to expose the contents of the bag. Two pockets on the front are ideal for small accessories. Thanks to the Velcro-secured flaps items placed inside will stay put!
Inside the main compartment are the camera insert and a thin, unpadded tablet pocket that sits at the rear. As Lowepro explains, this makes the bag:
- Safe Inside and Out: The padded removable camera compartment with storm-flap closure provides premium protection for your gear inside or outside the bag.
- Dedicated iPad/laptop Pocket: Stay connected to the digital world while keeping your valuable gear protected with a padded and protective pocket.
- Stay Organized: Multiple storage pockets offer plentiful space for accessories and personal items.
- Convert to a Day Bag: Remove the padded camera compartment to turn into a fully functioning messenger bag.
I love the fact that the Nova Sport 17L AW can serve multiple purposes. Need to lug your camera gear around? No problem. Not taking your camera with you for the day but still need to bring gear along? No problem.
Yes, the Lowepro Nova Sport 17L AW isn’t just a camera bag, and that is a good thing.
The Lowepro Nova Sport 17L AW is light, flexible and designed by people who know camera bags. Add in the patented, built-in All Weather AW Cover, and you have a bag that will help keep your pricey gear safe no matter where you take it. At just $79.99 it is a great way to carry your DSLR, tablet and assorted accessories or, if the need arises, carry everything BUT your camera gear once the camera insert is removed. Check it out.
MSRP: $79.99
What I Like: Light but sturdy; Well-made; Flexible; Under $80
What Needs Improvement: Plastic claps; Only available in one color
Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample