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National Geographic Walkabout Rucksack photos

A discussion of the design of the small National Geographic Walkabout Rucksack.

Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
Lori Grunin
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1 of 7 Sarah Tew/CNET

Configurable

You can configure the dividers to accommodate your equipment, though I find this type of scheme--narrow strips of Velcro and fairly stiff padded dividers--never seems to properly fit bodies with longish lenses on them, just small consumer bodies with 18-55mm kit lenses or shorter. They're good if you have lots of compartment-size things, like lenses and flashes.
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2 of 7 Sarah Tew/CNET

Bottom compartment

For days when you don't need a camera, you can take out all the dividers, unzip the separator between the top and bottom compartments, and use the Walkabout like a typical backpack. The bottom flap has another flat zippered pocket on top with nylon holders for cards and pens. The bag lacks storage for media cards and other small accessories.
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3 of 7 Sarah Tew/CNET

MP3/phone holster

At first I removed the phone holster, since it felt like it sat too high up by my shoulder. After trying it for a while, though, I got used to it and ultimately found it pretty convenient.
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4 of 7 Sarah Tew/CNET

Laptop pocket

On of the best things about the small Walkabout is its ability to accommodate a 12-inch notebook. Most small bags lack this amazingly convenient back pocket, which you can also use for letter-size papers.
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5 of 7 Sarah Tew/CNET

Nice fabric

The Walkabout is made of a sturdy, attractive brushed canvas fabric. Though it's not waterproof, it is water treated, and it comes with a plastic showercap if you get caught in a downpour. Unfortunately, some of the design elements that appear to be pockets aren't (the two flaps on top), and the bag really could use more real pockets and fewer faux ones.
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6 of 7 Sarah Tew/CNET

Top pocket

There's a roomy top compartment with a bottom zipper that you can open to make one big space.
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7 of 7 Sarah Tew/CNET

Profile

The Walkabout has a relatively narrow profile, though it's still wide enough that etiquette demands you take the pack off when on a bus or train.

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