Hybrid is a word that is becoming more readily used in the photography community. Bags are quickly adapting to photographers’ needs in a fast-paced world. The Vanguard Alta Fly 58T rolling camera bag functions primarily as a trolley and doubles as a backpack. It’s durable, functional, and TSA compliant. The hybrid is almost perfect.

Table of Contents

Too Long Didn’t Read

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Tech Specs

Gear Used

Innovations

Ergonomics

Build Quality

Ease Of Use

Conclusions of the Vanguard Alta Fly 58T Roller Bag

Likes

Dislikes

Too Long Didn’t Read

The Vanguard Alta Fly 58T is a very functional hybrid trolley bag that doubles as a backpack. It comes equipped with padded shoulder straps and a waist strap that can be easily stowed away. The bag meets TSA carry-on standards and has extra grab handles for access. It’s quite versatile and functional.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Fits TSA carry-on guidelines

Can accommodate a Broncolor Siros L 800ws

Removable interior cube

Can be worn as a backpack or used as a trolley

Easy organization

Cons

Sternum strap isn’t high enough for women

Trolley handle access fits too snug

Doesn’t have weather-resistant zippers

Tech Specs

All tech specs are provided by the manufacturer.

Accessories: Raincover

Color: Black

Extended Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Inside Dimensions: 12 1/4″ x 6 7/8″ x 19 1/4″

Max Lens Capacity: 6

Notebook Capacity: 14”

Outside Dimensions: 13 5/8″ x 11″ x 23 1/4″

Series: Alta Fly

Shoulder Bag Type: Backpack

Tripod Storage: Y

Warranty: 1Y

Weight: 10.5 lbs.

Price: $299.99

Gear Used

We tested the Vanguard Alta Fly 58T with a Canon 5D Mark III and Canon 50mm f1.2 lens attached, Canon 85mm f1.2 lens, Broncolor Siros L 800ws, and a 3 Legged Thing Billy 2.0 tripod.

Innovations

Vanguard isn’t reinventing the wheel. However, they made an incredibly versatile option for photographers. It’s well thought-out to provide comfort when worn as a backpack. The Alta Fly 58T also spins effortlessly when used as a trolley. Again, it’s not innovative.

Ergonomics

On the top, you will find a sizeable padded grab handle. The trolley handle is also stored here. There are two D-rings located on either side. I found these handy to attach my keys.

The front panel of the Vanguard Alta Fly 58T has a large, zippered pocket to store memory cards, cables, and other small items.

Completely unzip the front panel to access the main compartment. Here you will find a protective mesh layer and a customizable cube.

The cube is also removable.

The inside of the front panel will accommodate a 16” MacBook Pro. This is larger than the specs indicate. There are two straps on the front panel that secure to the main compartment. This protects the laptop and prevents it from falling down when the bag is upright.

A smaller pocket located towards the top will fit a wallet, cell phone, and other personal items.

There are two straps to secure a tripod. And a pouch can even be accessed underneath a velcro strap for extra security.

On one side, there is a sizeable, stretchy pocket. I used this to hold my water bottle. Each side is equipped with a padded grab-handle for added convenience and comfort.

The padded shoulder straps and waist harness are on the back of the bag. There is a large pouch to secure the shoulder straps when not in use. It also houses the waterproof cover. The waist strap can then be fastened around the front of the bag to avoid dragging it. It also provides an extra level of security.

This is how the Alta Fly 58T fits when wearing it as a backpack. A waist strap is located at the bottom. And the harness strap is attached to the shoulder straps. While it’s uncomfortable for women and quite unflattering, I did find the bag comfortable without attaching the sternum strap for shorter durations.

Build Quality

Vanguard has built the Alta Fly 58T with rugged moisture-resistant and anti-scratch materials. The spinning wheels operate flawlessly when used as a trolley. But, the zippers aren’t fully water-resistant. I got caugh...