The firm behind Kickstarter’s best-funded camera bag is back — and this time it has funded four different bags in less than two days. After Peak Design’s Everyday Messenger secured major funding and a number of different awards, the team is expanding the line with a backpack in two different sizes, a tote and a sling bag.
With 58 days left in the campaign, the bags are already fully funded and climbing, with over $800,000 pledged beyond the initial $500,000 goal. Peak Design estimates that backers will receive their products before Christmas.
So why have Peak Design‘s Kickstarter campaigns been so successful? There’s likely a number of different reasons, but one of them is the impressive list of features. FlexFoldTM dividers, like most camera bags, are removable, but unlike most they can be unfolded to stow away smaller items at the top. All of the bags also have expansion options, capable of strapping on gear to the outside of the bag from tripods to even drones. The bags are packed full of pockets on the inside, weatherproof on the outside and look pretty slick too. Even the smallest bag has a laptop sleeve, though a tight one designed for 10-inch devices.
The backpack will be available in 20L and 30L sizes, with the smallest capable of carrying a body, three lenses, a tripod, a laptop and a tablet and the larger option adding another body and lens to the mix. Dual side zippers allow quick access without removing the bag (even if you’re a leftie) and a latch-magnet combo secures the top. A unique camera mount sits on the strap. Along with the backpack straps (which include a sternum and waist strap, the bag can also be carried briefcase-style with the side handle.
While the third bag may be shaped like a traditional tote, it can actually be carried with hand straps or backpack straps. Designed as a multi-purpose bag, the tote includes dedicated gear slots for a body with up to three lenses with lots of pockets for other stuff. Even with the tote design, there are still tripod straps.
The sling is the smallest of the bunch, though it still includes an expandable pocket big enough for a tripod. Designed for carrying just the basics with slots for a camera and two lenses, the bag offers quick access in a more portable design.
With the sling bag starting at $125 and the biggest backpack hitting $229, the bags aren’t crazy expensive compared to other bags for serious photographers. While many of the early-bird specials are already gone, Kickstarter prices are discounted from the expected list price when the bags join the original messenger at big retailers like Amazon.
