The Lowepro Flipside Trek 450 Backpack is designed for photographers who shoot outdoors and want to carry both camera equipment and personal items in a single, well balanced pack. It suits DSLR users with multiple lenses who hike, travel, or work in outdoor environments where comfort, security, and weather protection are essential.
This backpack is particularly well suited to trekking, landscape photography, and day long outdoor shoots where stability and safe access to gear matter more than quick urban style access.
Flipside Access and Real World Use
The defining feature of this backpack is Lowepro’s Flipside back access system. The main camera compartment opens from the back panel, allowing you to reach your gear without taking the backpack fully off or exposing it to the ground.
In real world use, this is ideal for muddy, wet, or uneven terrain. You can swing the bag around, access your camera or lenses, and keep the harness on your body. It also adds a layer of security, as the main compartment cannot be opened while the bag is worn.
Dual Compartment Layout and Organisation
The Flipside Trek 450 uses a clear separation between camera storage and daypack space. This means you do not have to choose between carrying camera gear or personal items such as clothing, food, or accessories.
The camera compartment keeps bodies and lenses organised and protected, while the upper daypack area gives space for essentials needed on longer outdoor trips. This layout works especially well for photographers who spend hours away from base locations.
Tablet, Accessories and Expandability
A dedicated tablet compartment keeps devices safely stowed away and protected from camera equipment. This is useful for photographers who review images in the field or carry navigation devices during treks.
Additional attachment points and carrying options inside and outside the backpack allow you to expand capacity when needed. Tripods and other accessories can be carried externally, freeing up internal space and keeping heavier items stable.
Protection and Weather Resistance
Protection is a strong point of this backpack. The included All Weather Cover provides reliable defence against rain, dust, and wind, which is especially valuable for outdoor photography in changeable conditions.
The polyester construction offers durability for regular outdoor use, while the structured design helps protect equipment during movement over rough terrain.
Comfort and Carry Experience
Designed with trekking in mind, the backpack focuses on balanced weight distribution and stable carry. The harness system keeps the load close to your body, reducing fatigue during long walks or climbs.
The overall design prioritises comfort and practicality rather than a slim urban profile, making it more suitable for outdoor and adventure focused photographers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Flipside back access keeps gear secure and clean
Separate camera and daypack compartments
Ideal for trekking and outdoor photography
Tablet compartment for safe device storage
AW Cover included for weather protection
Expandable carry options for accessories and tripod
Cons
Slower access than side opening urban backpacks
Larger outdoor focused design may feel bulky for city use
Laptop size support not specified
Why We Like This Product – Reviewed by the YPC Team
At YPC Outdoors, we like how purpose built this backpack feels for outdoor shooting. The Flipside access system works especially well in muddy or wet conditions, and the separation between camera gear and personal items makes long days outside far more comfortable. It feels like a bag designed for photographers who actually hike to get their shots.
Alternatives Worth Considering
If you mainly shoot in urban environments, a side access camera backpack may offer faster handling. Photographers who carry very large kits for travel may prefer roller camera cases. For lighter outdoor kits, smaller trekking camera backpacks may feel more agile.
Comparisons With Similar Camera Backpacks
Compared to standard camera backpacks, the Flipside Trek 450 offers better security and cleanliness thanks to its back opening design. Against urban fast access packs, it trades speed for stability, weather protection, and outdoor practicality, which is often the better choice for trekking photographers.
Tips for Using This Bag Correctly
Adjust the harness before long walks for better weight distribution
Use the Flipside access to avoid placing the bag on wet ground
Keep heavier lenses closer to your back for balance
Store personal items in the daypack section to protect camera gear
Always carry the AW Cover in unpredictable weather
Full Tech Specification
Brand: Lowepro
Model: Flipside Trek 450
Bag Type: Outdoor camera backpack
Camera Compatibility: DSLR cameras with multiple lenses
Compartment Layout: Separate camera and daypack compartments
Access System: Flipside back access
Tablet Storage: Dedicated tablet compartment
Tripod Support: External carry options
Weather Protection: All Weather Cover included
Material: Polyester
Colour: Grey
Dimensions: 17 x 26 x 31 cm
Weight: Not specified
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Flipside access?
It is a back opening system that allows access to gear without removing the backpack.
Is this backpack good for hiking?
Yes, it is designed specifically for trekking and outdoor photography.
Does it include weather protection?
Yes, an All Weather Cover is included.
Can it carry personal items as well as camera gear?
Yes, it has separate camera and daypack compartments.
Is there space for a tablet?
Yes, a dedicated tablet compartment is included.
Can I attach a tripod?
Yes, there are external carry options for tripods.
Is this bag secure in crowded areas?
Yes, the back opening design improves security while wearing the bag.
Is it suitable for long outdoor days?
Yes, it is built for comfort and stability during extended use.
Does it support laptops?
Laptop support is not specified, but a tablet compartment is included.
Is this bag suitable for travel photography?
Yes, especially for outdoor and adventure focused travel.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing an Outdoor Camera Backpack
Outdoor camera backpacks should prioritise comfort, protection, and stability over speed. Look for back access designs, separate compartments for personal items, and reliable weather protection. These features make a real difference when shooting in challenging environments.
Looking for more options?
Browse our full range of Camera Bags and Cases for other great choices to suit your space, goals, and budget.
