The search for the right backpack for photographic everyday life often resembles a long journey through a wide field of compromises. With the OneGo Roamer Tote Backpack in the 18-liter version and in the classic color Matte Black, manufacturer PGYTECH sends an interesting candidate into the race that aims to combine the advantages of a camera backpack with the characteristics of a tote bag.
Specifications
Before we turn to practical experiences, it's worth taking a look at the bare numbers and materials that make up this model. The PGYTECH OneGo Roamer Tote Backpack in the 18-liter version weighs approximately 1.12 kilograms empty, if you leave out the internal dividers and additional straps. If you choose to use it with the full set of dividers, the weight increases to a moderate 1.35 kilograms.
The external dimensions are approximately 440 millimeters in height, 375 millimeters in width, and 155 millimeters in depth. Inside, the user has dimensions of about 400 millimeters in height, 350 millimeters in width, and 140 millimeters in depth.
The main material for the exterior is a splash-proof nylon fabric, characterized by a fine, dense structure that effectively repels moisture in everyday use. The inner lining is made entirely of polyester and is kept in a light gray tone.
In terms of color, the variant we tested presents itself in a matte black, which cuts a pleasantly unobtrusive figure in everyday life. For storing digital work tools, a separate padded laptop compartment is integrated, which can accommodate portable computers with a screen diagonal of up to 15 inches, corresponding, for example, to the size of a MacBook Air.
Access to the contents is provided via two primary ways: a side quick-access opening for camera equipment and a top opening for personal daily necessities. Additionally, all external zippers are water-resistant YKK models to protect sensitive equipment from weather influences.
In Practice
In everyday use, it quickly becomes apparent whether the concept of a hybrid backpack works or whether it is merely a theoretical thought experiment.
Slim Design
One essential point that is immediately noticeable when packing for the first time is the depth of the backpack. With a measured depth of about 13 to 14 centimeters in the main area, this model is noticeably slimmer compared to conventional, often very bulky camera backpacks.
This shallow depth proves very advantageous in practice when you frequently move in public transport like crowded subways or buses. You bump into things much less often and don't have to constantly fear accidentally jostling other passengers.
Clever Access
The backpack is based on a clever access system. Access to the contents is designed so that you can reach the camera in no time via the side quick opening, while personal daily necessities are accessible separately through the top compartment.
A big plus for handling in the studio or on trips is the full rear opening. The backpack can be opened flat 180 degrees, which makes packing and organizing the camera compartment much easier.
In this main compartment, the padded dividers are used. In the 18-liter version, seven of these flexible dividers are included, which can be freely arranged using Velcro. This allows the interior to be safely divided for a medium-sized system camera with attached lens, two additional lenses, and a flash unit. Each piece of equipment rests protected in its own niche and is immune to shocks.
High Flexibility
The highlight of the OneGo Roamer lies in its transformability. The entire inner camera insert is designed as a removable unit. When you don't need the photo equipment, this insert can be completely removed. By removing the internal divider, the upper and lower compartments merge into a single, large main space. In this way, the camera backpack transforms in an instant into a spacious bag for daily shopping or a spontaneous weekend trip.
Thoughtful Details
To protect the main compartment from pickpockets, the manufacturer has added an additional security buckle on the top. This is placed over the closed zipper and hooked in, making unnoticed opening of the backpack in dense crowds significantly more difficult.
For smaller everyday items that you want to have at hand without long searching, the separate upper zippered compartment is available. This compartment is surprisingly spacious and offers enough room for things like a wallet, keys, a thin jacket, or snacks. A tech pouch with cables, batteries, and the like could also fit here.
Additionally, there are two elastic pockets on both narrow sides for small items like a flashlight or power bank. On one of the long sides, a compartment is integrated almost the entire length, closed with a zipper.
In the flexible outer pockets on the sides of the backpack, water bottles or a compact travel tripod can be stored. Integrated attachment straps on the sides ensure that the tripod can be securely fastened and does not swing back and forth while walking.
The interior of the side quick-access flap is particularly well thought out. Here there is a dedicated pocket for camera batteries, which features an extremely practical additional function. Small sliders in the signal colors red and green allow you to manually mark the charge status of the batteries.
On the opposite side, there is also a flap that can be opened. However, here there is no access to the camera, but another flexible stretch pocket is housed. You can store tissues, spare films, or similar small items here. Some caution is advised when storing a water bottle, as it exerts a certain pressure on the compartment.
Another well-hidden detail is located inside near the care label: there, the manufacturer has integrated a small, inconspicuous pocket for an AirTag, which enables discreet location in case of loss.
The backpack offers a separate laptop compartment on the back. It is well padded, has a non-slip flap with a magnetic closure, and securely accommodates devices up to 15 inches. On the outside of this laptop compartment, there is an additional flat mesh pocket with a zipper. Here you can neatly store charging cables, headphones, or small adapters without them flying around loosely in the backpack.
Carrying System
Another defining element of the OneGo Roamer is the flexible carrying system. I think very few will use the backpack purely as a tote bag. Otherwise, you wouldn't need the backpack part – especially since there are more suitable options for that, such as carrying the bag over the shoulder.
Meaningful use cases for this are, for example, situations where you cannot put on the backpack – such as in a crowded train or queue – or when you only want to carry it briefly from A to B.
Most backpacks have a simple carrying loop. So what is the difference here? It shows in two details: First, the carrying loops here are slightly wider, softer, and more rounded. This way, the loops do not dig in even when held for a long time.
The second advantage of this tote option is the weight distribution. Most backpacks have their carrying loop only on the back part, so the center of gravity of the backpack tilts forward. With the PGYTECH model, the weight is distributed much better, making holding more comfortable.
The two straps are held together by a magnet. The magnet is not particularly strong. I was a bit surprised about that at first, but it makes sense: When the backpack is not in use, the magnet holds it together, making the backpack look neater and easy to grab. When I then carry it, it is no longer important that the straps are connected, since I do that with my hand.
The front of the backpack stands out with the distinctive design featuring two cords, which are not only decorative but also offer the possibility to attach a carabiner, for example.
On the sides, there is also the so-called TagPort system. Decorative accessories or small pendants can be attached to these attachment points, which are even compatible with the well-known Jibbitz from Crocs shoes. So if you want to give your backpack a small personal touch, you can get creative playfully.
On the front, there is also a simple compartment that is relatively large but not particularly deep. Here you can quickly store your passport, a notebook, cables, or a thin power bank.
The entire carrying experience is supported by the Airfoam suspension system on the back panel. The breathable 3D mesh structure comfortably conforms to the back and is intended to provide better air circulation. Even if sweating cannot be completely prevented on very hot days, the backpack carries very comfortably due to the good weight distribution.
The system is complemented by an adjustable chest strap, which can be easily hooked into the loops of the shoulder straps and has a small tab for quick release.
Beetle Clip
A particularly interesting accessory that significantly enhances the use of the backpack in photographic everyday life is the Beetle Clip V2 from PGYTECH. It is a clip that you can attach to your backpack or belt to hang the camera on it.
The OneGo Roamer Tote Backpack is optimized for this. Normally, you have to clamp such a clip directly onto the strap of the backpack. However, the PGYTECH backpack comes with a special loop on the shoulder strap, which ensures that the back of the clip does not lie directly on the body. This means there are no unpleasant pressure points or friction on the chest, even with thin clothing or intense movement. It also protects the carrying strap.
In practical use, the Beetle Clip V2 quickly proves to be an excellent alternative to the classic camera strap. Anyone who often travels with a camera around their neck and a backpack on their back knows the problem that the straps inevitably get tangled when taking off the backpack – and generally the carrying feeling is rather mediocre.
With the clip, this problem is elegantly solved. The camera is simply pushed from above into the clip with a suitable quick-release plate and locks securely with an audible click. The weight of the camera is thus transferred directly to the wide shoulder strap of the backpack, which noticeably relieves the neck.
If you want to take a photo, just press the release button, and the camera is ready for use immediately. You have your hands free when moving in rough terrain or using hiking poles, but you still have the tool at hand in seconds.
This combination of security and quick access makes the system a very elegant and practical solution for anyone who is on foot a lot and wants to seamlessly transition between photographing and walking.
Conclusion
What conclusion can be drawn about the OneGo Roamer Tote Backpack from PGYTECH? The impression remains of a very well-thought-out backpack designed with great attention to detail.
PGYTECH has managed to pack an astonishing wealth of functions into a housing without the backpack appearing overloaded or cluttered. Every compartment and every strap seems to serve a clear purpose, making daily handling a pleasant experience.
The OneGo Roamer Tote Backpack in the 18-liter variant proves to be a successful recommendation for photographic everyday life as well as for use as a normal leisure companion. The size is dimensioned so that it is completely sufficient for most day trips without carrying unnecessary ballast.
The flexibility to adapt the backpack to different scenarios by removing or adjusting the dividers is a big plus. Whether you go out with two cameras and lenses or use the bag for the daily commute to work – the division between the upper compartment and the lower camera part remains functional.
Design is always a matter of personal taste, but the combination of the simple, matte surface and the distinctive rope details on the front gives the backpack its own identity. While the also available lighter color variants look visually very appealing, the matte black is significantly less sensitive to dirt and dust in everyday life, making it the easier-care choice for outdoor use.
It would be interesting, for example, to have a rolltop for the upper compartment to flexibly expand the volume when needed. Additionally, it would be practical if the padded camera insert could be completely removed and stored separately – especially when you change the purpose of the backpack frequently.
Anyone looking for an unobtrusive, well-organized, and flexible companion will find a reliable partner with this model.
Where to Buy
If this review has sparked your interest in the versatile carrying system, you can purchase the backpack directly from the manufacturer. There you will also find more details about the various color options and sizes. The PGYTECH OneGo Roamer Tote Backpack is available on the official manufacturer's website. With the code "FILMPGY1" you get 10 percent discount there. Of course, it is also available on Amazon.
