Tenba's completely collapsable camera bag

Tenba, maker of carrying case solutions since 1977, has created an alternative to the one-size-fits-all bag for photographers/videographers. Called the Packlite, it also might take some getting used to, as there has never been a completely collapsible self-stowing camera bag before.

The Packlite possesses almost no weight to speak of (less than a 1/2 lb.) and when not in use completely stores within its own side mesh pocket for placement inside of a larger camera bag. To use it, the Packlite is pulled out from within itself, and a Tenba Bring Your Own Bag (BYOB) padded camera insert is then placed inside. The insert does double duty as it both creates pocket areas as well as protects the contents inside the now-open bag.

Packlite is composed of a silicon-treated ripstop nylon with reinforced stitching along all of its stress points. It has been treated to be water repellent and includes a quick-access top zipper. The outside side mesh pocket can be used to hold a water bottle and the bag can be clipped onto a D-ring or backpack harness for transport. Depending on the bag chosen (there are four sizes), what can be carried varies from small and medium-sized mirrorless cameras to a DSLR with an attached 24-79 zoom lens up to a Pro body with an attached 70-200mm zoom lens.

Each of the Packlite configurations pair up with an insert: for the BYOB 7 it is 10w X 6h X 4d-inches/.25 lb. @ $19.95; for the BYOB 9 it is 12w X 7h X 4.5d-inches/.25 lb. @ $22.95; for the BYOB 10 it is 13w X 9h X 5d-inches/.4 lb. @ $26.95; for the BYOB 13 it is 16w X 10h X 6d-inches/.4 lb. @ $28.95. The BYOB inserts are sold separately.

Marshal Rosenthal is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer and journalist specializing in technology, consumer electronics and pop culture. Past accomplishments include editing of home theater and video gaming publications domestic and international, operating a NY photographic studio specializing in children/product and providing graphic imaging for video game box art, manuals and related.