Langly Alpha Globetrotter XC Backpack Review

Langly Alpha Globetrotter XC Backpack Features

At first glance, the material almost looks like leather, but in fact, is 840D Nylon fabric with a waterproof TPU coating. It absolutely looks the part and is extremely well made, so should also last well. This extends to the water-resistant YKK zips. The internal structure is divided by a zipped panel into upper and lower compartments, the lower being the primary area for camera kit as it has quick, front access. However, it can all be configured as desired, using the high-density foam dividers, and the upper compartment can easily contain kit as well, particularly large long lenses. If necessary, the interior can be opened up completely and the whole inside area of the pack used to carry any large items as needed.

There is an internal, zipped, laptop sleeve and within that sleeve a separate one for a tablet. Langly suggests that a 16” laptop can be accommodated, but my 15.6” Dell is too large to even slide into the slot. Something smaller is clearly more appropriate without having to force it in. Add to that three generous outside pockets and we have plenty of space for accessories and sundry items. There is also a small zipped section within the lid of the upper section.

The back has mesh panels to keep the backpack away from the user's back, for added comfort and air circulation. The straps are well-padded and the sternum and waist straps add security. The tripod straps are along the base of the pack.

There are two colour varieties available, either black or black/brown.

Langly Alpha Globetrotter XC Backpack Features:

• 840D Nylon fabric with waterproof TPU coating
• YKK weatherproof zips
• Padded back panel with mesh webbing
• Customisable high-density foam inserts
• Can have upper and lower compartments or all one
• Front loading lower compartment
• Internal laptop sleeve with separate tablet sleeve
• Ventilated shoulder straps
• Sternum and waist straps
• Tripod straps on the base
• Unloaded weight 2100g

Langly Alpha Globetrotter XC Backpack Handling & Performance

There are so many camera bags and backpacks on the market that standing out from the crowd is a difficult task. Fortunately, bags and backpacks are very personal to the photographer, and what may suit one will not suit another. This does give scope for well-made, functional packs that will appeal to specific types of shooter. Here we have the Langly Alpha Globetrotter XC, a camera backpack clearly designed to be for the hiker, traveller, photo-journalist, and anyone who wants to carry camera kit but also perhaps supplies for the day. It is heavy-duty in construction, waterproof and has been carefully designed to be as accessible as possible for speed of use.

Of course, a pack that weighs 2100g before we start is going to weigh something significant once filled with kit. Taking the Pentax K-1 full-frame DSLR it is possible to find room for the camera body plus just 5 lenses, the 150-450mm being housed in the upper compartment and the weight ending up as 7145g. For the mirrorless user, loading up the Nikon Z7 II with 5 lenses, still needs the Nikkor Z 400mm f/4.5 to be in the upper compartment and the other kit in the lower, the weight ending up at 6190g. The reasoning behind this backpack is very different to the Langly Sierra also reviewed. The Sierra can carry more kit, whereas the Alpha Globetrotter XC is designed more for the traveller, with less kit but more accessories and other supplies.

All the openings have lockable zips, offering at least some limited security. The side and front pockets have well-designed closures, so water should not find it easy to enter at the edges of the flaps. The same applies to the main flap, which offers good protection. Much of the rigidity of the backpack comes from the high-density foam inserts, which can be configured in many ways to offer maximum versatility in the stowing of equipment. The front opening lower section is highly convenient, offering easy access to the main camera/lens compartment without having to open the whole bag. The upper section is ideal for large lenses or for everything from the day's sandwiches to a spare coat.

At the back of the upper section, the laptop sleeve is protected by its own zip, and within the compartment is a second slot for a tablet. This prevents the laptop and tablet from rubbing against each other and scratching the finish.

Comfort is very important with a backpack on a long hike, and the mesh backing panels go a long way towards keeping a flow of air between the back and the backpack, helping to avoid the user feeling sweat building up. The straps are also comfortable and the sternum and waist straps aid the carrying of heavy loads, giving extra support and stability.

Finally, the tripod straps also help to keep the hands free and support the carrying of a good solid travel tripod without it becoming too much of a burden.

Value For Money

The Langly Alpha Globetrotter XC Backpack is priced at £264.00

Although there are many backpacks on the market, varying in price from the cheap to the highly expensive, the Alpha Globetrotter XC is priced at a realistic level within that band, especially considering its high quality of construction.

For more camera bag options, take a look at our accessory reviews. 

Langly Alpha Globetrotter XC Backpack Verdict

The Langly Alpha Globetrotter XC is a well-designed and well-made backpack and it should suit travellers, photojournalists, landscape photographers and hikers very well. There is enough room for whatever kit is needed for any particular speciality, whether this involves more camera gear and fewer other items or the reverse of that. Some photographers travel lighter than others, and those who have minimalist kit will have space for their other travel requirements.

As mentioned, camera bags and backpacks are very personal things and it is not a case of one size fits all. The Alpha Globetrotter XC is well worth a serious look and can be 'Recommended'.

Reccommended - A well-made, well-designed backpack ideal for travel and other outdoor pursuits.

Own this product? Let us know what you think of it in the EQDB.