At Vanguard, we know that photographers often have to travel long distances across rugged terrain, carrying heavy loads to get to that perfect photo opportunity. This needs a bag that’s designed to be as comfortable as possible, and to keep your kit safe from the elements.
The VEO Active Series comes in four sizes, and the largest VEO Active 53 can carry a pro-DSLR with grip, 6-7 lenses (up to 400mm f2.8 or 200-600mm zoom), a full sized tripod in the centre using the straps provided (and potentially a second tripod on the side), a 16” laptop and a 10” tablet. A serious level of camera kit by any standard.
In addition, it has a day-pack section on top for some personal kit (or more camera kit), a zip up accessories pouch (to keep your SD cards and cables organised) and a detachable lens pouch for lenses up to 70-200mm (to keep an extra lens to hand on the waist strap). On the back there is a hidden pocket for a wallet or passport, and the shoulder and waist straps also include pockets, many of which expand when needed.
Alternatively, it can be configured for a combination of camera and personal kit, or any other kit, such as a spotting scope for longer birdwatching trips.
The camera compartment consists of a removable inner bag with a zipped front and Vanguard’s next generation slimline, smart dividers.
Taking the camera bag out allows the VEO Active backpack to be used as an everyday backpack, leaving your camera kit safe and secure at home.
When used in the backpack, the front zipped flap of the camera bag can be closed (adding another level of security and protection when access isn’t needed), or it can be opened and tucked behind the insert bag inside the backpack, to allow you to have it open for easy rear access to your complete kit.
Carrying a large kit over extended periods, and over tough terrain means comfort is key.
For maximum comfort, the VEO Active Series incorporates an aluminium alloy frame to increase the level of protection to your kit and stiffen the rear of the backpack. It then has a well-padded back panel that includes padding for the lower back and the shoulders, and an air-flow system to help you stay cool.
On all models except the VEO Active 42M, the waist belt is well padded to spread the pressure comfortably around the waist, and for those who prefer not to use a waist strap, it is removable. The VEO Active 42M is designed for mirrorless or smaller DSLR cameras, so the padded waist belt is replaced with a lighter and simpler belt which can tuck away when not in use.
Comfort is not only about the ergonomics of the harness.
Staying fresh means access to liquids and snacks, and the VEO Active Series incorporates our first waterproof pouch for a hydration pouch on the side. In addition, there are multiple, easy access, expandable pockets on the shoulder and waist straps for snacks or water bottles.
Clearly map and compass navigation skills are key, but with the growing reliance on technology for navigation (such as OS Maps) on smartphones, power can be critical. If your power goes as the light fades or the fog rolls in, you can be in serious trouble. The VEO Active Series incorporates a built in USB interface port that allows you to place the power bank of your choice safely in the backpack and connect it to your device with the appropriate cables (not included), so that it’s close to hand while it charges, and you keep on trekking.
The bag also needs to be tough and the VEO Active Series doesn’t disappoint.
Each model is constructed of tough nylon 840D Cordura which is highly weather and tear resistant, with waterproof zips and quality herringbone and double reverse stitching. For wetter days, the VEO Active includes a rain cover.
The table below gives you an overview of each model:
Vanguard Ambassador David Brightwell took the VEO Active 53 for a spin and you can click here to see his review.
So if you're looking for a stylish and capable camera backpack with the ability to keep your energy levels up, check out the VEO Active Series and #makeupyourownmind.
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