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HomePhotographyPhotography Bags & CasesBackpacksThink Tank Photo Airport Essentials

Think Tank Photo Airport Essentials Backpack (Small, Black)

BH #THAEBP • MFR #720483
56 reviews
Think Tank Photo Airport Essentials Backpack (Small, Black)
Key Features
  • Holds Standard DSLR System
  • Holds 300mm f/2.8 / iPad / 13" Laptop
  • Security Cable and Lock / YKK Zippers
  • Adjustable Harness/Removable Waist Belt
The small black Airport Essentials Backpack from Think Tank makes a photographer's life easy since on the outside, it resembles an ordinary piece of luggage while the inside speaks differently. The pack is rated to hold your standard DSLR, 4-6 basic zooms plus your iPad and 13" laptop. It's sized to handle your 300mm f/2.8 so if you're a nature or sports shooter, you're covered.

Think Tank has designed this bag both for functionality and security since it comes with a security cable and lock that can be tied to a reception hall column or fence leaving you to remove your gear while the rest of the pack stays safely tethered. Even the strong YKK zippered sliders accept user-supplied locks for maximum protection and peace of mind while on the job. Inside, padded movable dividers allow you to arrange the guts of the bag in whatever way you choose. Your computers are stored in their own, separate lockable, zippered compartment. For even more flexibility and security, you can store your optional Artificial Intelligence Laptop case within the computer pocket.

You have multiple ways of carrying the pack from its adjustable harness system and removable waist belt to the very convenient handles situated on three sides. The harness has enhanced lumbar support and air mesh paneling that will help keep you cool while the pack is on your back. And no need to worry about getting caught in bad weather since the pack is supplied with a neat rain cover that stores inside when not needed. A sternum strap is also provided to help maintain balance while walking. The Airport Essentials also accepts Think Tank's optional Pro Speed Belt or Thin Skin Belt that will assist with stability as well as increased load capacity.

Your tripod can be secured to the pack with its feet in a supplied exterior pocket and head tied with a supplied strap. For small accessories, the inside flap has laminated mesh pockets for everything from memory cards to a snack.

The exterior of the pack is made from a combination of ballistic nylon, polyester and nylon webbing all treated for water-resistance. The inside is nylon and polyurethane with padded, closed cell foam dividers. For a small pack that holds this much gear, it's relatively lightweight at a maximum of 3.6 lb. Think Tank backs the Airport Essentials with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer's defects.

Back-Ordered
$219.75
$37/mo. suggested payments for 6 Mos.
with the credit card.§ 
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Think Tank Photo Essentials Overview

The small black Airport Essentials Backpack from Think Tank makes a photographer's life easy since on the outside, it resembles an ordinary piece of luggage while the inside speaks differently. The pack is rated to hold your standard DSLR, 4-6 basic zooms plus your iPad and 13" laptop. It's sized to handle your 300mm f/2.8 so if you're a nature or sports shooter, you're covered.

Think Tank has designed this bag both for functionality and security since it comes with a security cable and lock that can be tied to a reception hall column or fence leaving you to remove your gear while the rest of the pack stays safely tethered. Even the strong YKK zippered sliders accept user-supplied locks for maximum protection and peace of mind while on the job. Inside, padded movable dividers allow you to arrange the guts of the bag in whatever way you choose. Your computers are stored in their own, separate lockable, zippered compartment. For even more flexibility and security, you can store your optional Artificial Intelligence Laptop case within the computer pocket.

You have multiple ways of carrying the pack from its adjustable harness system and removable waist belt to the very convenient handles situated on three sides. The harness has enhanced lumbar support and air mesh paneling that will help keep you cool while the pack is on your back. And no need to worry about getting caught in bad weather since the pack is supplied with a neat rain cover that stores inside when not needed. A sternum strap is also provided to help maintain balance while walking. The Airport Essentials also accepts Think Tank's optional Pro Speed Belt or Thin Skin Belt that will assist with stability as well as increased load capacity.

Your tripod can be secured to the pack with its feet in a supplied exterior pocket and head tied with a supplied strap. For small accessories, the inside flap has laminated mesh pockets for everything from memory cards to a snack.

The exterior of the pack is made from a combination of ballistic nylon, polyester and nylon webbing all treated for water-resistance. The inside is nylon and polyurethane with padded, closed cell foam dividers. For a small pack that holds this much gear, it's relatively lightweight at a maximum of 3.6 lb. Think Tank backs the Airport Essentials with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer's defects.

Does not look like a traditional camera backpack. Included security cable and combination lock allows you to lock the laptop case or to immovable objects. This security cable is very effective when you have to leave your gear for a period of time in a media room, wedding hall, hotel room, or other open area
Contoured adjustable harness with lumbar support and Air Mesh paneling to help keep your back cool
Robust handles on three sides ensures rapid and easy retrieval from overhead bins, car trunks
Seam sealed rain cover helps protect your gear. Stows away inside backpack when not in use
Compatible with optional Think Tank Artificial Intelligence Laptop cases
The inside flap has see-through laminated mesh pockets for various accessories such as note pads, energy bars, memory card wallets, instruction books, and other items
Includes tripod/monopod mounting system
YKK RC-Fuse zipper and highest quality materials throughout. Lockable zipper sliders for additional security
The removable waist belt allows the optional Pro Speed belt or Thin Skin Belt to be used which increases carrying capacity, stability and functionality

Compatibility

Standard DSLR with 4-6 standard zoom lenses. Quick access pockets hold a 13" laptop and iPad; holds 13" laptop and iPad in a separate, integrated, locking zippered compartment: accommodates a 300mm f/2.8 lens attached a standard sized camera body

Carry-On Form Factor

FAA and airline carry-on specifications are subject to change without notice, please check with your airline before designating this case as a carry-on item. Most airlines require carry-on items to have an external linear measurement that is equal to or less than 45.0" (114.3 cm). The external dimensions of this case add up to 36.5" (92.7 cm)
UPC: 874530004834

Think Tank Photo Essentials Specs

Carry/Transport OptionsBackpack Straps with Sternum Strap, Handle, Waist Belt
ColorBlack
Type of ClosureZipper
Laptop/Tablet CompartmentSingle Compartment: Fits 13" Laptop (15 x 9.8 x 1.2" / 38 x 25 x 3 cm)
Monopod/Tripod HolderYes
Environmental
Water ResistanceRain Cover
General
MaterialsExterior: Nylon, Polyester, Polyurethane
Interior: Foam, Nylon, Polyurethane, Taffeta
DimensionsExterior
18 x 11.5 x 7" / 45.72 x 29.21 x 17.78 cm
Interior
16.3 x 11 x 5" / 41.4 x 27.94 x 12.7 cm
Weight2.9 lb / 1.3 kg (Empty)
3.6 lb / 1.6 kg (Including Parts)
Packaging Info
Package Weight5 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)19.2 x 12.5 x 9.6"

Think Tank Photo Essentials Reviews

Excellent

By Mark
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-10-21

This is very sturdy, quality workmanship, and just right for my needs. A quality bag, as all Think Tank bags are.

Pefect Size

By Jeff
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-02-03

I wanted a backpack big enough for my new Canon mirrorless R5 and gear, but not as big as my Airport Commuter. This fills the bill, plenty of space for the camera and 24-105mm lens, 70-200mm, 100mm macro, 16-35mm, speedlite and filters, batteries and other accessories. Great for hiking and landscape trips.

Exactly what I needed for our trip

By William
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2019-09-17

Excellent design and craftsmanship

Very Durable. Love It!

By Shavonn
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2019-08-21

This is by far the best photography backpack I've owned out of the 5 I've ever had. I don't actually travel state-to-state flying with this backpack; however, I do use it when I have to travel to studios, local events, and etc. There's PLENTY of space for gear and the durability and level of protection it offers is unmatched. I must admit, sometimes I even throw the bag down roughly and don't pay it any mind, because I know my gear is protected. I like that it has a pocket for water bottles. It seems like a minor thing but makes my life much easier. I'm a pretty petite woman, so its weight is very ideal for the amount of gear I can pack into it.

Awesome

By Robert
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2019-07-16

Just what I was looking for, was happy that it fit my 15 inchMacBook Pro.

Just Perfect for what I needed

By William
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2019-04-30

When I traded from a full set of Nikon DLSRs and lenses to Fuji X-Series cameras, I found my various camera bags suddenly were too big. The difference is size between DSLR and mirrorless bodies and lenses is significant.  So I began searching for one bag that would serve my travel needs. Now retired from my editor duties of a boating magazine, I no longer needed to travel the globe lugging heavy bags full of big glass and heavy digital bodies. As I simplified my approach to photography, I came across David Hobby and his Strobist blog. Davids many video in Lynda.com as well as his blog really made me appreciate doing more with less. And when it came to recommending gear, Hobby hands down loves this small camera backpack for travel. He travels with less gear than most, although he is a professional photographer. This aligns with my direction moving forward. I have a Fuji X-Pro2 with the new 16mm/f2.8 lens (outstanding combination!), a Fuji X-T2 with a couple of great lenses and I try to keep things simple. This bag is PERFECT for my needs. It can always get aboard an airplane with this as carry-on as it fits under the seat, and is ideal for  a one-bag-for-traveling situation. It has lots of pockets, room for a small Chromebook and/or iPad, chargers, notebook, etc.  If you are looking for a camera bag to store every piece of your camera and related gear, it is too small for bodies and lenses and flashes and chargers and filters. And if you use full-frame DLSR gear, it is also too small. But for a mirrorless shooter with an eye towards minimalism, it is perfect for traveling. I can even carry a change of clothes and a toilet kit if I just want to carry one piece of luggage for a weekend or so. Think Tank bags are well make and well engineered. Nothing but praise for this product and company. David Hobby even shows how he puts this bag on his lap to sleep on a plane. Havent done that yet, but totally understand what he is saying. Hope this helps anyone looking for a quality but small camera bag.

Well-designed backpack

By Christopher
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-06-04

I've already used this backpack a few times and it does a great job keeping everything snug and well-packed.

Fantastic bag

By Michael
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-05-20

This is my go-to bag for a majority of the time. The quality is fantastic and it has tons of storage throughout. Enough dividers to arrange it however you want. I've tried several other Think Tank bags to find one of similar quality but larger without luck. This is just a perfect arrangement overall.

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Yes, your gear will fit.
Answered by: Rob
Date published: 2021-02-11

question

Would the Airport Essentials fit in a Pelican 1510? As a replacement for the dividers.
Asked by: David D.
Think Tank Photo Airport Essentials Exterior:11.5 x 18.0 x 7.0 (29.2 x 45.7 17.8 cm)Pelican 1510NF Carry On Interior: 19.8 x 11.0 x 7.6 / 50.3 x 27.9 x 19.3 cmOne dimension of the bag 11.5 is larger than the case 11.0. It is only .5 so we think you should be OK.
Answered by: Dennis A L.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

Does this bag have a trolley sleeve?
Asked by: Jamie
Unfortunately, no, the the Think Tank Photo Airport Essentials Backpack does not have the trolley pass-through sleeve on the rear of the backpack.
Answered by: Manzell L.
Date published: 2018-08-28

Will this bag fit the Asus 15.6” laptops?

Will this bag fit the Asus 15.6” laptops?
Asked by: Br. Lawrence
Yes, it will fit the Asus 15.6.
Answered by: Rob
Date published: 2020-01-29

Why are there no photos showing what the straps ...

Why are there no photos showing what the straps look like?
Asked by: NANCY
Think Tank has posted a Video where you can see the straps
Answered by: vilson
Date published: 2021-02-02

question

Would I be able to squeeze in a Nikon D4 attached to a 300mm 2.8 vrii in this bag or absolutely not? Thank you very much for your time,Wael
Asked by: Anonymous
I have just received a Think Tank Airport Essentials and I was worried that my D3S would not fit. It does but it is a very tight fit. I put it on the pack laying on its side (rather than bottom plate) and it sticks above the border of the bag about 2.5cm. The zipper closes without too much resistance. The D3S procuces a slight elevation on the front pocket that reduces the space for the laptop slightly. I cannot slide my MBP15 on the dedicated compartment inside that pocket, but it still fits in the front pocket itself, obviouslu reducing the avalable space. My MBP13 touch bar version (smaller and slimmer than the MBP15), with a neoprene sleeve, still fits in its dedicated compartment inside the front pockets. Summing up: the D3S fits although quite tight, even the D800 fits a bit tight, but they fit and the bag is great for carrying both if you do not plan on stuffing the front pocket too much. Hope this helps.
Answered by: Calimero M.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

Can this fit a MacBook Pro 15 Retina?
Asked by: Sidney
Yes. I have the 15 MacBook Pro with Retina and it will fit in the laptop compartment in the front of this bag.
Answered by: Ronald T.
Date published: 2019-11-09

question

Will this fit a Canon 5d Mkiii, Canon 70-200 f2.8, Canon 24-70 f2.8, Canon 135 f2 (all with hoods on/reversed), Canon 600 ex RT flash, Canon 430iii flash, Canon ST e3 RT transmitter?
Asked by: Cheryl
Yes - see my recent review (under Patrick)... I have mostly identical equipment and fit a second body and 2 larger 600EX-RT flashes in as well .
Answered by: Patrick G.
Date published: 2018-08-28
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