I’m a bag hound and have wayyy too many bags which includes backpacks. The upside is, I use them. So I have a good idea what works for me and what different brands bring to the table.
For backpacks I currently use a Peak Design 25 L everyday for street photography activities. I have a similar sized Lowepro which is very similar in use, but built better. So if I’m loading up 25 L to the hilt, the Lowepro ProTactic B300 AW II gets the nod. I also have a 35 L Manfrotto which I do like, but find it disproportionately heavy. All these bags are fantastic overall in their class.
So not being satisfied with the volume I could take with me comfortably I got the Think Tank Firstlight 35 as the reviews got my attention. It has become my favourite amongst all of them. The size is great, build is perfect as is design. I’m not sure I would change anything on this bag if I could. Well, maybe a lower price, as this one isn’t cheap.
One of the primary features of any backpack is comfort. Not unlike buying a car, or maybe a bicycle, it has to fit comfortably. Ok, maybe a pair of shoes or pants is a better analogy. The TT Firstlight 35 for me fits better than anything else I’ve had previously and I’ve had allot of packs on my back. Of course, this may not be the case for everyone. But the harness system is readily robust and padding is of just about the best I’ve come across, say for Osprey. It’s a three point system, so you have shoulders, waist and sternum. When it’s fit properly, it’s on solid and the key here is it’s balanced well. Fitting a backpack really shouldn’t be skipped. If the straps have adjustments, it’s worthwhile to try different positions. The Firstlight is so comfortable I recently found myself wearing it up a fair hill for maybe 20 min and never did the sternum or waist strap up. It was a trek to my car so I knew it was coming off shortly, but found it comfortable enough not needing to be totally strapped in. I haven’t found that with my other packs as this one is balanced really well.
The bag has more pockets than any other bag I’ve used and they have been thoughtfully designed. There’s plenty of small pockets for accessories and enough larger ones as well. The designer has to be a backpacker him/herself to hit the mark this well. I sometimes find pockets are placed in areas or designed in such a way where they just don’t get used. There’s only one pocket I found on top which is on the too tight side. But papers, passport or a wallet could be ok in that one.
I always try to avoid loading a backpack to its fullest. I think keeping at about 75% of what it’s designed for helps its lifespan and performance is optimal when it’s on my back. Plus, I find a backpack can get pretty darn heavy the more glass and metal are inside it.
I usually prefer keeping my smallest things in accessory pouches and that way when I switch bags, I just grab the bag(s) and put them easily into something else. However, the small pouches, most zippered, are just telling you to fill them up in this bag.
I totally recommend this model. I waited a long time, but never saw them go on sale unfortunately. Buying from Amplis Photo in Ontario, Canada is always a pleasure though and if you don’t know who they are, find ‘em online. One of the best photography stores in Canada who ship fast like Amazon.
