Think Tank Urban Access 15 Review

Conclusion

It was to be expected that a company like Think Tank would eventually offer a product for people who want to step away from the pure camera bag, and move towards the everyday backpack. At its core, the Urban Access remains a camera bag. It was built around the camera compartment, but does not limit itself to photography.

As is always the case with Think Tank products, we cannot fault the quality of fabrication. The fabrics, sewing, and hardware are all flawless. Straps in particular have always been a hallmark of Think Tank bags, and here they continue the tradition.

The bag is able to carry a large amount of photo gear, but can adapt its internal organization when required. Using Velcro to do this is, maybe, not as glamorous as using folding or pop-out dividers but, well, it works.

Internal organization is simple and easy. As often, we would like to see a contingency for smaller lenses, which end up lost in compartments too large for them. Nonetheless, the pass-through shelves make it simple to reach inside from either side. We suspect that, most of the time, users will favor one side over the other for specific items (the camera on one side, a big lens on the other, for instance). Offering both dual-side access and back-access makes it easier to configure the internals at home, and access stored equipment on the go. Back access also lets the user reach some subdivisions which might not be accessible from the sides.

Some nice inclusions make the bag even more pleasurable to use: magnets to close the front compartment, stowaway straps, folding pockets for a more streamlined look, removable sternum straps. The looks are arguably elegant and modern, but the shape is still mostly a rectangle, meaning there are no nooks and crannies which result in wasted volume.

The tripod attachment system is yet again a good, well executed idea. Except for very short tripods, it has no limitations and no drawbacks.

In short, the Urban Access 15 is a superb product, worthy of consideration.

Pros

• Very comfortable in use for various body shapes
• Effective tripod sleeve
• Dual side access well executed
• Easy internal organization thanks to the back access panel
• Large side pockets, useful front pocket
• Pleasing aesthetics
• Impressive craftsmanship, quality hardware, thick padding
• Valuable inclusions (hip strap, load lifters, rain cover)
• Large volume for the camera compartment, can be used for other items
• Strikes a good balance between photo and non-photo sections

Cons

• Short dividers cannot be attached to each other, limiting possible configurations
• Not well adapted to smaller lenses
• Reconfiguring internal organization can require time and fiddling
• Some zippers not protected against water, requires rain cover
• Most mesh pockets are thin and non-stretch, limiting usefulness

Who Is It For?

With its looks and features, The Urban Access 15 clearly targets the market generally interested in everyday backpacks from the likes of Peak Design, Wandrd, Boundary Supply, and the like. Anyone looking at these products should also take a look at Think Tank's proposal. The Urban Access is not a "me too" product, far from it, nor is it a copycat. It certainly includes the staples that its market base would expect, but bears the Think Tank signature proudly.

The bag will be well suited for photographers who carry a good amount of equipment, but also for commuters, minimalist travellers, urban photographers, and just anyone interested in carrying extra items in addition to photo equipment.

In the US, the bag is moderately expensive: at the time of writing the bag retails for US $239.75. In Canada, the bag sells for 374.49$ CAD directly from Think Tank or from various online retailers. On other markets the price can vary considerably depending on the currency. This pricing is in line with most competing backpacks. Users should decide if the price is adequate regarding their intended uses.