The Vanguard Alta Sky 51D is the second smallest of five different sizes in the Alta Sky range of backpack. Even so, it’s quite voluminous and measures up to the adage ‘a place for everything and everything in its place’, with a plethora of different compartments and pockets.
Specifications
External dimensions (WxDxH): 37 x 26 x 56.5 cm
Main camera compartment (WxDxH): 32 x 20 x 51 cm
Sizes options in range: 45D, 51D, 53, 66, 68
Backpack type: Split photo/daypack
Camera access: Front, left, rear
Laptop compartment: 15-inch
Tripod fastener: Yes
Chest / Waist strap: Yes / Yes (non-removable)
Baggage trolley strap: Yes
Rain-proof cover: Included
Weight: 2.9kg
Key features
The striking V-shaped front flap of the backpack can be used for securely holding a large drone, or you can easily customize the main inner compartment for one. This compartment also has quick camera access through a large zippered flap on the left-hand side, which itself has a smaller color-coded pocket for fresh and used memory cards within the flap.
Up top, another zippered flap gives access to a separate compartment for daily essentials or more photo kit, plus another internal zippered sleeve. There are yet more zippered pockets and sleeves on the front and right-hand side.
At the bottom, there’s a whole extra fold-out zippered compartment with dividers for a camera and additional lenses or accessories. The dividers between each of the top, middle and lower compartments are removable so you can split the sections to best suit your photo kit and other gear, or use the whole backpack with one extra-large compartment. A separate zippered compartment at the rear can accommodate a 15-inch laptop plus a tablet.
Performance
Full access to the backpack is via the rear. The shoulder straps are thickly padded, widely adjustable and very comfortable, as is the rest of the harness. The multitude of compartments, pockets and sleeves will prove ideal for those who like to have a dedicated place for all their individual gadgets. The wide and thickly padded waist strap adds to the secure fit when wearing the backpack but it’s not removable to save space.
Verdict
The Alta Sky 51D gives the option of stowing two camera kits, both with their own access points. It also features a Y-shaped front section and both this and the top compartment are ideal for large and small drones respectively. All in all, it’s a sizeable backpack that’s ideal for packing a wide range of camera kit.
Read more:
• Best messenger/shoulder bags
• Best camera backpacks
• Best camera sling bags
• Best camera holsters/pouches
• Best roller bags
• Best hard cases for camera kit
