The Lowepro Pro Trekker RLX 450 AW II offers versatile three-way transport, converting from a backpack to a roller trolley via a retractable handle and stowable harness. Digital Camera World found this design allows photographers to switch modes seamlessly between airport terminals and uneven terrain, while Wex Photo Video highlighted the MaxFit divider system for customizable pro gear organization. However, the bag weighs over 4 kg empty, creating an immediate load that impacts comfort during extended carrying periods. Additionally, plastic wheels limit rolling smoothness on rough surfaces compared to rubber alternatives. This carrier fits frequent travelers who prioritize carry-on compliance and multi-mode transit but may disappoint those requiring lightweight portability or off-road rolling performance.
Full review
Three-way transport versatility in one chassis
Digital Camera World describes the Lowepro Pro Trekker RLX 450 AW II as a three-in-one solution, offering backpack straps, rolling wheels, and an extendable trolley handle hidden beneath a top zipper. This design allows photographers to switch between carrying modes depending on their immediate environment without needing multiple bags. The retractable handle mechanism is engineered for airport transit, keeping the weight off the shoulders when navigating long terminal corridors or train platforms.
The backpack harness system is designed to be completely stowable behind a molded back panel, ensuring the bag remains streamlined and does not snag on overhead bin mechanisms or narrow aisles. When deployed, contoured shoulder straps and a removable waist belt distribute the load evenly across the torso. This dual functionality addresses the primary pain point of heavy camera gear: the transition from paved surfaces to uneven terrain where wheels become impractical.
SOAM - Tech Talk highlights that this convertible design is particularly beneficial for videographers who frequently switch between shooting locations and transit hubs. The ability to roll a fully loaded bag through an airport terminal and then immediately convert it into a backpack for a short hike or flight of stairs eliminates the need to constantly lift heavy equipment from the ground, preserving both gear stability and user energy.
Over four kilograms empty weight creates immediate load
Digital Camera World notes that the bag weighs just over 4 kg before any memory cards or lenses are stored within. This substantial base weight means that even a minimal setup of two camera bodies and standard zooms pushes the total carrying mass significantly higher. For photographers who prioritize lightweight travel gear, this empty weight is a major consideration that impacts comfort during extended periods of wearing the bag as a backpack.
The heavy construction contributes to the bag's stability when used in rolling mode. Because the chassis is robust and dense, it resists tipping over even when loaded unevenly with heavy telephoto lenses or lighting equipment. However, this structural integrity comes at the cost of portability for users who must carry the bag up stairs or across rough ground without using the wheels.
Wex Photo Video confirms the weight sits at 4.1 kg while listing the external dimensions as 36 x 25 x 52 cm. This bulkiness is a direct result of the internal reinforcement required to protect sensitive optical equipment during transit. Shoppers who need to carry this bag for long distances without rolling it will find the empty weight demanding, whereas those who primarily roll it through airports may view the mass as acceptable protection.
Plastic wheels limit rough terrain performance
Digital Camera World points out that the rolling mechanism utilizes plastic wheels rather than rubber. While these wheels are functional on smooth airport floors and paved city streets, they lack the grip and shock absorption of rubberized alternatives. On uneven terrain such as cobblestones or gravel paths, the hard plastic can transmit more vibration to the contents and may roll less smoothly over debris.
The wheel assembly features cartridge ball bearings designed for durability and user replacement. A plastic foot at the base doubles as a grab handle when lifting the bag into overhead compartments, but it also serves as a stabilizer when the bag is stood upright. This design choice prioritizes structural rigidity and impact resistance over silent rolling or soft terrain adaptability.
For photographers who frequently transition from urban transit to outdoor shoots on dirt trails, the plastic wheels represent a specific limitation. The bag excels in environments with hard surfaces but requires users to manually carry it when moving across grass, sand, or broken pavement where rubber tires would maintain momentum and protect internal dividers from jarring impacts.
MaxFit divider system accommodates pro mirrorless kits
Wex Photo Video details the MaxFit divider system, which allows users to customize the interior layout to fit professional mirrorless and DSLR kits. The dividers can be pushed tightly against gear to maximize space utilization, accommodating setups that include two camera bodies with attached lenses plus multiple additional optics. This modularity ensures that heavy telephoto lenses are secured without shifting during transit.
The internal organization includes a horizontal hinge divider specifically designed for stacking items like flash units or folding drones with transmitters on top. A removable gearbox pouch provides dedicated storage for chargers, cables, and batteries, keeping these smaller accessories organized and easily accessible without digging through the main camera compartment.
SOAM - Tech Talk demonstrates that the internal space can comfortably fit a Hasselblad X2D 50mm lens setup alongside a Sony A7R V with a 50mm lens. The adjustable webbing straps further secure items, preventing movement while walking or rolling. This level of customization makes the bag suitable for photographers who carry diverse equipment profiles and require precise protection for high-value optical glass.
Airline carry-on compliance requires careful packing
Digital Camera World states that the manufacturer insists the bag is sized to squeeze within airline carry-on restrictions. The external dimensions of 36 x 25 x 52 cm are designed to meet the requirements of most major carriers, allowing photographers to avoid checked baggage fees and reduce the risk of lost equipment. This compliance is a key selling point for frequent travelers who need to keep their gear with them at all times.
However, Photoreview.com.au warns that older or similarly sized models in this product line have historically exceeded carry-on limits for certain airlines, particularly budget carriers with stricter dimensions like 55 x 40 x 20 cm. While the RLX 450 AW II is marketed as compliant, users must verify specific airline policies before travel, especially if the bag is packed to its maximum capacity.
The stowable harness and waist belt are critical for maintaining these dimensions when rolling the bag through security checkpoints. When fully deployed with thick padding and heavy lenses inside, the bag may exceed width or depth limits on stricter airlines. Photographers should pack strategically to ensure the external measurements remain within the allowable range for their specific flight routes.
Recycled fabric construction supports sustainable durability
Wex Photo Video notes that up to 69% of the backpack's exterior is constructed from recycled polyester and nylon fabrics. This material choice aligns with Lowepro's sustainability pledge while providing a rugged, outdoorsy aesthetic suitable for trekking in challenging environments. The heavy-duty materials offer resistance to abrasion and tearing during rough handling.
Digital Camera World observes that the black and grey color scheme gives the bag an industrial look that blends well in both urban transit hubs and natural landscapes. The use of recycled fabrics does not compromise the structural integrity required for professional gear protection, offering a durable shell that withstands daily wear and tear from frequent travel.
The all-weather cover is stored in a dedicated zippered pocket to protect against rain when deployed. Combined with weather-resistant zippers, the recycled fabric exterior provides enhanced moisture protection for sensitive electronic equipment. This construction ensures that photographers can maintain their gear's condition even during unexpected downpours or humid conditions.
Laptop and tablet compartments secure digital workflow
Wex Photo Video specifies that the front device pocket includes a dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment and a separate 10-inch tablet sleeve. These padded sections keep computing devices isolated from camera bodies and lenses, preventing accidental damage from heavy glass elements. The clear accessory pockets allow users to quickly identify small items like memory cards or adapters without opening every zippered section.
This capacity supports videographers who need to edit footage on location using high-performance laptops while keeping their primary camera gear securely stored in the main compartment. The organization ensures that digital workflow tools remain accessible without disrupting the camera storage layout.
The front device pocket also features a soft side for sunglasses and small organizational pockets with key leashes. This dedicated space prevents clutter from mixing with photographic equipment, allowing users to quickly grab travel documents or payment cards while keeping larger electronics protected against impact and scratches during transit.
Strengths
- +Converts between a backpack, roller trolley bag, and carry-on case via retractable handle and stowable harness.
- +Constructed from up to 69% recycled fabrics for sustainable durability.
- +Includes MaxFit divider system allowing customizable internal organization for pro camera kits.
Watch-outs
- −Weighs over 4 kg (approx. 4.06–4.1 kg) empty, making it bulky before gear is added.
- −Wheels are made of plastic rather than rubber, which may affect rolling smoothness on rough terrain.
How it compares
Its empty weight of 8.95 lbs makes it substantially heavier than the lightweight CADeN Camera Backpack (1.74 lb) and Wandrd PRVKE 21 V4 (2.87 lb), limiting its appeal for hikers who need to carry gear on their backs for long distances.
Rating sources
Counts as 3.77/5 in our score — this publisher's 55 scores on the site average 4.42, so its scores are adjusted down to compare fairly with other publishers.
“In summary Most outdoor photographers would find Lowepros Pro Trekker 450 AW a good c”
“Absolutely a wicket bag. Beautiful. Nice one by Louis Pro.”
Not in the average — we derived this score from the review's words, and a publisher printed a score for this product, so the printed number counts instead.
Our 3.8 score is the average of 1 of the scored reviews above, each adjusted for how strictly its publisher scores; 2 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. 1 derived score above is not in the average because a publisher printed a score for this product. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
