The Noreg 30 is an interesting bag, featuring a versatile modular system. With the urban commuter in mind, it offers storage for a 15’’ laptop, small DSLR or mirrorless camera plus an extra lens or two depending on size. Build quality is great and the carbon camo looks will certainly appeal to some.
Info
Manfrotto Noreg 30 Messenger Bag – £129 – www.manfrotto.co.uk/noreg-camera-messenger-30-for-dslr-csc
Introduction
For many photographers, a messenger bag is an ideal way of carrying their gear. Manfrotto claim the Noreg 30 is a very versatile option for the urban shooter and this is no lie.
The carbon camo styling fits the urban scene and the option to remove parts to be used separately can be very handy. Just need your laptop? Just want to go out with camera gear? Just need a bag to take? Well, this has you covered.
The modular design is great for those in need of one bag that can be used for other things too. If you’re purely after a photography bag then this won’t be for you.
Features
The rear of the bag can hold up to a 15-inch laptop which is fully detachable. The main compartment is removable too and this has space to hold a small camera and a spare lens or two. Located on the front are two tripod straps, which can hold a small travel tripod.
The lid to the main compartment is secured down to the main bag via two hooks. To keep small accessories safe there are a few zipped compartments. Caught in a downpour? Don’t worry, it comes with a rain cover.
Build and handling
I cannot fault the overall build quality of this bag. The padding is great which gives me confidence it could take some hard knocks and keep my camera gear safe. The detachable laptop sleeve adds bulk to the rear, but obviously, this is removable when not in use. The overall size of the bag is quite small on the inside, which does limit space for daily items.
Ergonomics is an area that I feel could be improved, especially the hooks to secure the bag lid, as this was cumbersome when trying to get quick access, although, there is a zip on the top allowing quick access here. The padded area of the strap is comfy but has no grip, which is useless if you want to carry the bag on one shoulder.
Performance
I ventured out into town, carrying only my Sony A7r3, Laowa 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6, Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 and Samyang 35mm f/1.4. It handled the equipment fine, but there wasn’t any room for a filter set or holder. I managed to fit a small bottle of water in one of the side compartments and again, these aren’t very big and they’re not expandable.
Yes, the idea of it being modular is fantastic and it will certainly come in handy for those who can utilise it. Once filled with some everyday work items, however; laptop + charger, food and water, paperwork etc there really isn’t much room for camera equipment.
Something that really bugged me, was the lack of a grip on the strap. Wearing it over my right shoulder was near impossible and not comfortable in the slightest! You’re basically limited to wearing the strap across the chest. Something to bear in mind.
One more thing that I really did not get on within the slightest; the hooks to get into the main compartment. It is a very cumbersome design and difficult to secure it back in place, so I left it unhooked, which meant they were flapping all over as I was walking. What was wrong with a conventional clip or some velcro?
Verdict
I see this bag as a good option for the casual shooter, commuting to work that prioritises versatility. It’s good looking with plenty of padding, but it does come with some flaws. Do you require 3 different bags? If so, this could well be a perfect option for you, however, hardcore photographers should look elsewhere. With the rather high price tag of £129, I can’t help feel there are better options for the money.