Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY Camera Backpack Review

Product: Brand Name: Vanguard
Product: description: Camera Backpack
Product: image url: https://static.photocdn.pt/images/articles/2023/06/02/Vanguard_VEO_Adaptor_R48GY_Camera_Backpack_back_view.webp
Product: title: Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY
Article: main image URL: https://static.photocdn.pt/images/articles/2023/06/02/Vanguard_VEO_Adaptor_R48GY_Camera_Backpack_Review.webp
Article: description: I’ve had the Vanguard VEO Adapter R48GY in my hands for quite some time now, and I’ve put it through its paces to see if it lives up to a high standard of quality. Find out if it does in this detailed review!
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So, what makes a good camera backpack? We’ve tested dozens of camera bags over the years, and while we acknowledge that what’s most important to every individual differs, the three biggest parts of the equation are comfort, space, and price.  

With that in mind, we’ve been field-testing the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY backpack backpack for the last seven months, looking specifically at how it rates in the three areas mentioned above. After this extensive process, we are finally ready to share our findings and whether or not we would recommend it to other photographers and videographers. 

Once upon a time, we would never have considered recommending Vanguard bags because they simply couldn't measure up to the competition. BUT…Over the past few years, Vanguard has completely overhauled its lineup of bags, drastically improving their comfort, design, and build quality.

Now, let’s dive in and discover how Vanguard’s enhanced focus on design, quality, and comfort translates into performance and whether you should make the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY your next camera backpack! 

Check out our Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY review on the PhotographyTalk YouTube Channel for a closer look at the Vanguard camera backpack and to see how we scored it. 

Table of Contents

What to Look for in a Camera Bag

Just to reiterate what we said at the beginning of this article, we know that what makes a “good” camera backpack will change from person to person, depending on what you want from it, what type of content you shoot, and how you use it. 

That said, here’s what we look closest at when determining if a bag is a success or a flop:

  • Sized right for your needs, plan to travel with it? TSA carry-on size requirements?
  • It fits well - ergonomics are important for a comfortable carrying experience… what feels good for 5 minutes… doesn’t mean it will feel good for 5 hours.
  • Interior organization to keep the camera, lenses, and accessories organized and protected. 
  • Weather-resistant exterior to protect valuable gear.
  • Easy access so you can grab your gear at a moment’s notice.
  • The value provided for the price. 

Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY: Overview

The Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY backpack debuted at the end of 2021 and has been one of the hottest-selling camera backpacks ever since. It’s constructed from durable 600D Polyester with a PU coating, enhancing its weatherproof resistance. A hidden rain cover is also integrated into the bag for those extra wet days. 

Thanks to its sleek yet rugged design, it’s a versatile backpack that looks good everywhere – from the tallest peaks to the inside of a photo studio. Moreover, it’s available in black and gray, so you can choose the one that best matches your look and style.

Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY: 

  • Material: 600D Polyester with PU coating
  • Exterior Dimensions: 11.4 x 8.6 x 19.3 inches
  • Exterior Dimensions: 10.3 x 6.3 x 18.9 inches
  • Weight: 3.2 pounds (empty)
  • Volume: 20 liters
  • Tablet/Laptop Storage: Yes
  • Tripod Holder: Yes
  • Included Raincover: Yes
  • Warranty: 2 years (5 years extended warranty)
  • Price: $169.99

Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY: Comfort

The well-padded shoulder straps and harness system make the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY extremely comfortable, even when carrying heavy loads or wearing it for extended periods. Additionally, unlike most bags in this price range, it does a good job circulating air on your back and preventing sweat.

One feature, in particular, we want to talk more about is the innovative harness system. It’s ergonomically designed for comfort and includes a waist strap that tucks away into the bag when not needed. This helps keep things neat and tidy for shorter outings and lets you get in and out of the bag more quickly.

Its excellent comfort level is arguably the biggest strength of the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY. Whether you wear it for only a few minutes or hours, we feel confident you will be satisfied with the results.

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Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY: Size & Space

The Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY is a nice-sized backpack measuring 11.4" x 8.7" x 19.3". Internally, this translates to 10.3” x 6.3” x 18.9” of available space spread across multiple compartments and pockets. Also, it is lightweight, weighing only 3.2 lbs. 

The main compartment is 100% customizable courtesy of velcro dividers and can be accessed from four entry points – the top, back, and sides of the bag. Twenty liters of internal space is enough to fit a camera body, multiple lenses, multiple camera accessories, a 16-inch laptop (there is a padded laptop sleeve), and more!

Externally, you can easily carry a tripod on the front or side of the bag. We recommend carrying it on the front rather than on the side, as it helps maintain the balance of the load and is more comfortable.  

Here is an example gear load:  

  • 1-2 DSLR/Mirrorless bodies (with lenses attached)
  • 3-7 Lenses (up to 400mm f2.8)
  • Flash
  • Drone (DJI Mavic)
  • Gimbal
  • 16" Macbook
  • Tripod
  • Water bottle
  • Additional accessories (memory cards, cables, batteries, portable charger, cell phone, etc.)

Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY: Price

Let’s quickly talk about the price of the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY. It’s currently retailing for only $169.99, which we believe is an absolute bargain. From personal experience, it’s hard to find similarly priced options that match all the professional specs and features this backpack provides.

While we tested the Adaptor 48, Vanguard also sells three smaller models that are slightly cheaper. There’s the Adaptor 46 for $159.99, Adaptor 44 for $149.99, and Adaptor 41 for $119.99. 

Final Thoughts on the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY

Overall, the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY is an exceptionally well-made bag that is simultaneously comfortable, functional, and stylish. So, would we recommend it? ABSOLUTELY! 

The only thing we would improve in future generations of the backpack would be the USB-A port. It’s a handy feature that allows you to add a power bank and charge your phone or camera batteries on the go. However, since more and more devices now have USB-C ports, the functionality may be limited depending on your gear.

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