Lowepro Nova 160 AW II Camera Bag - Compact, Weather-Ready

In this review of the Nova 160 AW II camera bag the bottom line is simple: it is a compact, well-built shoulder bag for photographers who want protection and flexible organization without a bulky case. The bag is best for a DSLR with a 17-85mm attached lens or a compact mirrorless kit, plus one to two extra lenses, a flash and small accessories. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of practical capacity and the All Weather cover with waterproof trim that keeps gear safe while remaining easy to carry and access.

Key Features

• Fits DSLR with attached lens: Designed to carry a DSLR with a 17-85mm attached lens plus one to two additional lenses, keeping a common shooting kit together and ready.
• All Weather protection: The included AW cover, waterproof zipper and full internal padding provide reliable protection from rain and rough conditions.
• Customizable interior: Flexible dividers allow secure, configurable storage so photographers can tailor the layout to lenses, a flash or a compact drone.
• Multiple carry options: Carrying is versatile with an adjustable shoulder strap, padded top handle or belt loop for travel and quick moves on location.
• Easy access storage: Interior lid plus front and side pockets give fast access to filters, batteries, cards and small accessories without unpacking the main compartment.

Who It's For

The Nova 160 AW II is ideal for hobbyists and travel photographers who shoot with a mid-size DSLR or a mirrorless body and a short zoom, and who need a compact bag that still holds a small kit and a flash. It will also suit users of compact photo drones who want a padded, easily carried case for one drone and a couple of accessories.

Photographers who need to carry larger telephoto lenses, extensive lighting kits, or a full pro body with multiple large lenses should look elsewhere for a larger pro case; likewise, those who require hard-shell luggage for airline check-in will want a different solution.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid build and material quality give a premium feel and durable protection for everyday use.
• Practical storage capacity fits a DSLR with a 17-85mm attached lens and one to two additional lenses without excess bulk.
• All Weather cover and waterproof zipper add confidence when shooting in wet conditions.
• Customizable dividers and multiple pockets make organization straightforward and efficient.

Cons

• Not large enough for full pro kits or long telephoto lenses, so capacity is limited for advanced shooters.
• Those wanting rigid, hard-shell protection may prefer a different style for heavy-duty travel.

Specifications

Brand	Lowepro
Model	Nova 160 AW II
Fits	DSLR with 17-85mm attached lens, 1-2 additional lenses, flash, or compact drone
Protection	Full internal padding with All Weather AW cover and waterproof zipper
Organization	Flexible interior dividers, interior lid, front and side pockets
Carry options	Adjustable shoulder strap, padded handle, belt loop

Our Verdict

The Lowepro Nova 160 AW II is a compact, thoughtfully designed shoulder bag that offers excellent value for photographers who need a protected, customizable kit bag without excess size. It is especially well suited to travel shooters and hobbyists who carry a short-zoom equipped DSLR or a mirrorless kit and a couple of lenses, delivering reliable weather protection and practical organization at a reasonable price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this bag hold a flash and two lenses?
Yes; the layout supports a DSLR with a 17-85mm attached lens plus one to two additional lenses and a flash using the flexible dividers.

Is the bag waterproof for outdoor use?
The bag is not fully waterproof, but the All Weather cover, waterproof zipper and full padding provide strong protection against rain and splashes.

Will it fit a compact drone?
Yes; the Nova 160 AW II can accommodate a compact photo drone and small accessories when arranged with the interior dividers.