In this review I will look at the
PolarPro Trekker drone backpack, and why I purchased one myself! Before the DJI Mavic came about, the DJI Phantom series were considered the most portable camera drone on the market. If you're like me and are after a comfortable and convenient way of carrying your Phantom around, a backpack is a great solution. In this post, I explain why I have personally bought the PolarPro Trekker backpack after trying and testing a variety of other backpacks
designed specifically for drones. https://vimeo.com/171641086
More Than Just A Drone Bag
The reason
I don't rate the other bags I have tried so highly is because although they can carry your drone and accessories, that's about it. Say if you're going for a hike with your drone, you will also find that you need space for other things such as a jacket, water bottles, phone charger, snacks etc. The PolarPro Trekker allows you this excess space
to use as you please with a larger main compartment, zipped side pockets, front pocket and two meshed side pockets.
What's more is that like a traditional camera bag, you can reconfigure the padded velcro dividers in the main compartment to suit your needs, allowing
infinite layout combinations depending on what camera kit or drone you want to carry.
Key Features
Here's a quick run down on the many features the Polar Pro Trekker has to offer:
- Adjustable shoulder, waist and chest straps
- Adjustable padded dividers
- Meshed side pockets
- Tripod holder
- Zippered side pockets, waist strap pockets and top pocket
- Front compartment for 15" laptop, tablets, maps etc.
- TSA approved combination travel lock
- Lightweight rain cover
- Limited lifetime warranty
Comfortable and Convenient
With wide, adjustable shoulder straps, chest strap and waist strap, you can alter the bags positioning and weight distribution, like with standard hiking bags, so that you can comfortably wear the bag
for long periods of time while on the move.
It's also great for if you're travelling by air. It's small enough to take on as hand luggage with most airlines, but if you wanted to put it in the hold, you can put your mind at ease by using the
TSA approved combination lock on the main compartment.
Design Features
This bag was designed knowing that drone tech is constantly evolving. So, to avoid you 'out growing' the bag, PolarPro have been very generous with space and the velcro, padded dividers allow you to create a layout that suits your needs and can constantly adapt to accommodate new gear. With plenty of compartments and zipped pockets on the outside of the bag, you can always keep your kit organised.
The main compartment is accessed by unzipping the back which not only provides security but also allows full access to your gear by placing the bag on it's back meaning you don't get the back plate dirty and therefore keeping your clothes clean.
In the main compartment, there is a messed zipper section which is handy for keeping documents or propellers however when the bag is zipped up the propeller mounts on the motors can snag and potential damage the mesh. Fear not though, PolarPro have provided a solution! Included in the bag are
4 white rubber caps that you can place on each motor as seen in the photo below.
There are plenty of smaller zippered compartments and mesh pockets on the outside of the bag as well for those smaller items that you may want to have closer to hand without having to take the bag off to delve into main compartment.
There's an adjustable buckle on the front of the bag to hold your tripod and a pouch that folds out from the bottom to support one of the tripods legs. The benefit of having in the centre instead of the side like on some bags is that it
won't affect the bags weight distribution from left to right.
On the bottom of the bag are two large rubber grips that stop the bag from getting scuffed or damaged when sat up right on the floor. The light weight waterproof rain cover sits neatly underneath the bag in the same pouch that the tripod foot support sits in. Allowing quick and easy access when the heavens open.
If you're still stuck for space, there are daisy chain attachment loops along the sides allowing youth hook on more items.
Dimensions
Size: 19 x 13 x 9.5 inches. Weight: 2.2kg Weight with typical load: 8kg (including DJI Phantom 4 Pro, 3 batteries, controller, USB cables, USB charging pack, 500ml water bottle, snacks and a jacket)
Value For Money
If you're after a bag on a budget, the PolarPro Trekker probably isn't for you but
at £129.99 it does represent good value for money considering how much it can carry and how well thought out it is. Plus, PolarPro's Limited
Lifetime Warranty will help give you peace of mind.
Pros and Cons of the PolarPro Trekker
This is my
drone backpack of choice and would recommend it to anyone that enjoys taking their Phantom or Mavic on a hike and needs the space to carry another camera, accessories, snacks or a jacket as well. + Well thought out design (clearly designed with the end user in mind) + Good size with lots of space and compartments + Comfortable. Even after a full day wearing it while on the move + Limited Lifetime Warranty - No lock on the outer zipped compartment (designed to carry laptop) - The velcro strap that goes over the laptop sleeve seems a bit unnecessary and just gets in the way - Only 4 rubber caps to go over the motors. A couple of spares would be great as I can see myself misplacing a couple over time
Buy Your PolarPro Trekker Backpack Today
If you're after a backpack for your drone and think this could be the one for you,
click here to place your order today. If you've got any questions or if you want clarification on any of the points I made, throw them in the comments below or give us a buzz on 01737 457404.