While it’s hard to believe about a year ago we were all locked down and things are slowly opening up. So things are slowly looking up for the most part. Also, last year was the last time we reviewed a bag as well. But this time around, we switched things up and checking out a sling bag.
Specifically, the upcoming Roam 9L Sling from Wandrd. Now I’m more of a backpack kind of guy over a sling one so this was an interesting experiment for me to convert or get used to this sling life. Now keep in mind that this is a prototype model of the Roam 9L we’ve been using for the past few months.
The Roam 9L Sling hits many checkboxes in regards to things the most or many might be looking for in a bag. It has weather-resistant materials comprised of waterproof Ballistic Nylon equipped w/ YKK zippers that can handle inclement weather as well. You got a dual adjustable shoulder strap that can be removed as well. You got a sternum strap tucked away, an expandable water bottle/tripod pocket, and a breathable air mesh back panel.
While on the inside, you got a built-in camera cube w/ removable dividers, accessory pocket, front quick-access pocket, SD card organizer, and a front storage pocket w/ key clip. And last but not least, it works w/ their 13inch or 16inch laptop cases as well despite it sticking out a bit.
Although it’s a lot inside, it doesn’t get uncomfortable after long periods of wear. The straps are easily adjustable, strong zippers, pockets/compartments can be accessed quickly, and super versatile to wear over the shoulder as a messenger, on your back as a sling, or around your waist. It even works well in a little rain as well as hot weather as it has been both wet & humid over the past few days of writing this piece up.
I opted for the 9L size which is easily a great alternative for those of you who want to pack a light to medium amount of essential gear. Wandrd also has 3L & 6L size options in case you don’t need all of that room. Outside of the size, all 3 sizes offer the same features, straps, versatility, etc.
I made sure to max it out as much as I can to fit as much as I had in my Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip in this. This is w/ a small mirrorless camera + 2 lenses, wireless lav mics, battery packs, cables, earbuds, & much more. Surprisingly enough, I was able to put around 80% of that bag in here. Below we got everything that I’ve been carrying as well as the phones in my pocket.
Apple AirPods Pro
Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds
Nimble Champ Pro 20,000 mAh battery pack
SD card holder
Screwdriver Kit
USB-C & Lightning cables
Sony a6300
Sigma f/1.8 18-35mm
Sigma MC-11
Rode Video Go
K&F Concept Variable ND Filter
Power Junkie accessory + NP battery
My new favorite Android is no surprise, the latest from Google: the Pixel 5. Though gone is the Face Unlock, Google reverted back to simplicity here. You got a fast 90Hz display, finally an all-day battery w/ wireless charging, a super-fast fingerprint sensor, a reliable camera for photos, and even better video. I’m easily loving 2021 phones from Google.
Though I didn’t upgrade to the 12 Pro Max, I’m still enjoying my 11 Pro Max in all areas. The screen is great, still powerful, still amazing for battery life, and the camera is great enough to use for photos and b-roll for many of our YouTube content. Depending on what the 13 has to offer and the price, I may upgrade in September.