Lowepro Flipside BP 400 AW III Camera Backpack - Outdoor Ready

Our review of the Flipside BP 400 AW III finds it best suited to photographers who travel with a mixed mirrorless or DSLR kit and need reliable protection without removing the pack. The single biggest reason to buy is the rear-access design combined with an all-weather cover and robust materials, which let users reach gear quickly while keeping equipment secure on trails or in tight travel spaces. The pack balances storage for a camera with portrait grip, lenses and a 10' tablet plus a 15' laptop, while offering sensible organization for daily shoots and longer trips.

Key Features

• Rear access: Backside entry lets you lay the bag down and unzip the back panel to reach all camera gear without exposing it while you move.
• All-weather protection: Included All Weather AW Cover, front PU coating and enhanced zippers protect gear from rain, snow, dust and sand.
• Side access: New single side access provides a fast secondary entry for quick lens swaps without removing the whole pack.
• Organized storage: Front compartment and internal pockets keep small accessories like cables, smartphone and notebook orderly and reachable.
• Versatile dividers: Adjustable divider layout accommodates mixed mirrorless or DSLR kits, non-photo items and a travel tripod.
• Durable construction: Front molded EVA bumpers and reinforced fabrics increase abrasion resistance when the bag is set down.

Who It's For

The Flipside BP 400 AW III is ideal for landscape and travel photographers who carry a mirrorless or DSLR body with multiple lenses and want quick, secure access while hiking or moving through crowded transit. Its protection features and comfortable fit make it a good choice for anyone who needs a reliable camera pack that fits under airline seats and keeps gear dry on wet days.

It is less appropriate for photographers who want a minimalist sling or who only carry a single small mirrorless kit, since the bag is designed for mixed kits and larger capacity. If you need a compact shoulder-only pack for quick street shoots, a smaller bag will be lighter and faster to deploy.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent protection from elements with AW cover, PU coating and reinforced bumpers.
• Smart access options with rear full access and quick side entry for lens changes.
• Thoughtful organization with padded top pocket and front pockets for cables and smartphone.
• Comfortable fit and capacity that still fits under airplane seats for travel.

Cons

• Bulkier than minimalist camera bags, so it may be too large for users who only need a light carry option.
• Heavier build materials increase durability but add weight when fully packed.

Specifications

Brand	Lowepro
Access style	Rear access plus side access
Device compatibility	Mirrorless or DSLR with portrait grip; fits 10' tablet and 15' laptop
Protection	All Weather AW Cover, front PU coating, molded EVA bumpers
Organization	Adjustable dividers, front pocket with organizing pockets, removable padded top pocket
Zippers	Enhanced 10mm YKK zippers

Our Verdict

The Flipside BP 400 AW III is a well built, travel ready camera backpack for photographers who need secure rear access, strong weather protection and flexible internal layout for mixed kits. It represents good value for those who carry several lenses, a travel tripod and a laptop, offering peace of mind on rugged outings and crowded transit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this bag keep gear dry in rain?
The included All Weather AW Cover plus PU coating and reinforced zippers help protect gear from rain, snow and dust.

Will it fit a 15' laptop and multiple lenses?
Yes, the interior layout supports a 15' laptop and adjustable dividers allow space for multiple lenses and a camera with portrait grip.

How do you access the camera quickly?
Use the rear access to open the full camera compartment or the side access for fast lens changes without removing the bag.