Summit Creative Tenzing 50L backpack review

As 2024 draws to a close and the days of strolling the fells in shorts and a T-shirt become a distant memory, it’s time to start thinking about equipment protection that can withstand the harsher conditions of winter. Enter the Summit Creative Tenzing 50L backpack.

Tenzing 50L durability

As far as adventure camera bags go, the £340 Tenzing 50L is built to compete with the hardiest. The bag features a water-resistant nylon outer, sealed zips and a thoughtful array of straps, webbing and external pockets perfect for carrying anything – from tripods and camping chairs right through to helmets and even alpine skis.

With that in mind, it’s safe to say this bag’s probably not one for your daily commute, unless of course you’re lucky enough to live in the remote mountains.

Is the Tenzing 50L comfortable?

The ergonomics of the Tenzing are designed to offer maximum comfort on long hikes through challenging conditions, and it aims to achieve this in a number of ways.

There is a moulded EVA back panel, XPE S-shaped shoulder straps, a detachable waist strap and a chest strap. This is complemented by an internal aluminium frame that provides increased support.

When combined, all of this helps distribute weight more evenly, taking the stress from your shoulders and spreading it around your waist.

Tenzing 50L storage

When it comes to compartments, you are spoilt for choice with the Tenzing. Several external pockets can hold a variety of kit, including an expandable front compartment for larger items.

My personal favourites were the pouches on the shoulder straps – perfect for items you need to keep handy such as water, comms devices or maps. A convenient pocket on the waist strap can keep smaller items easily accessible.

Inside, the main compartment offers plenty of space for professional set-ups. Customisable padded dividers feature the usual Velcro fastening system you would expect.

The main way this area is accessed is via the opening back panel, which folds back to reveal an envelope for a laptop or tablet. There is also quick access via a zip-up side panel.

The Tenzing 50L’s versatility is increased with a handy rolltop compartment at the top of the bag for optional extra storage. While it does enjoy the same waterproofing as the rest of the backpack, there is no padding, so it should be reserved for less fragile belongings or clothing. This section can also be expanded downwards into the main compartment by reconfiguring the foam interior divider.

Using the Tenzing 50L backpack

I have to say that, when I first picked this bag up, I was concerned it felt a little on the heavy side – the overall weight is 2.9kg. Having said that, it is a lot of bag and packed full of features, so that’s to be expected.

Swinging it onto my back, my concerns quickly evaporated. It felt very comfortable, with great weight distribution even if heavily laden with equipment.

The day that I managed to test it in earnest was on a wet hike in the Peak District. I was walking for around three hours and found the bag to be a pleasure.

While the weather prevented any decent photos from being taken, with the storm cover attached my gear remained safe and dry throughout. It even survived one slip, which thankfully only hurt my pride.