Camera Bag Recommendation

[UH_OH_5_OH]

Okay folks......I have my brand NEW (...to me) Nikon D1X with the four lenses that came with it, the flash, 3 batteries, etc. but I need some advice on a good camera bag (preferably backpack style) for this rig.


Here's the thing...I'm going to be getting a Nikon D2X next year with 5 lenses as well so I need one that can accomodate this set up too. When I get the D2 this will become my primary set up and the D1X will become my throw-it-a-duffle work horse field camera.

I'm tired of using my old black bookbag that isn't suited for this at all ! I want a bag that is very durable and stands up to alot of abuse. Can anyone make an experience based recommendation ?

 

[swjim]

I have had a Lowepro Computrekker AW for about three years that I am quite happy with. It is backpack style with a pocket for a laptop computer. It comfortably fits my Canon 30D, 24-70 f/2.8, 70-200 f/2.8, 85 f/1.8, 580EX, pocket wizards plus some misc cleaning supplies, clamps, memory cards etc. It also has straps to carry a tripod. The only dowside obviously is that it gets heavy when fully loaded, especially if you have a laptop in it too. Here's a link to it at B&H http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/292331-REG/Lowepro_3403010_CompuTrekker_AW_Backpack.html


One word of caution that you probably already realize, be sure to zip it back up immediately after taking things out. There are a lot of horror stories out there of people flinging backpacks over their shoulders without the pack being fully closed and gear flying out.

 

[BlueCorn]

Kata R-103

 

[UH_OH_5_OH]

WOW.........I had no idea camera bags were so expensive ! But I guess when ya consider the price of what their protecting...it's not so steep a price to pay !



Although.....lemme make a call to my guy in DHS and see if he has any lyin' around that are due to be dumped !

 

[reefman77]

I like the tamrac expedition series. I have a 4 and an 8 (theres still lots o room in the 8, guess its time for more lenses )

 

[UH_OH_5_OH]

How long have you had them reefman ? Do you recall what you paid for them ?

 

[VoidRaven]

I like either LowePro or Tamrac for their backpacks. I just got a Tamrac bag late last year and have found it to be pretty solid and comfortable. Only drawback to backpacks is access (and the dreaded "back sweats" on hot days or long hikes). If you want to "switch on the fly" it ain't easy. I picked up a top-load bag for those situations when I wasn't packing the whole kit and would need to swap on the fly or in tight confines.


This is the Tamrac backpack I use currently (too small probably for your use):
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/544643-REG/Tamrac_537503_5375_Adventure_75_Backpack.html


This is a LowePro bag that is on my list of "wants" at some point (might be better suited for you if you want a backpack style bag):
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/279101-REG/Lowepro_1980210_Photo_Trekker_AW_II.html


All depends on what you prefer. I've talked to a lot of folks that still prefer the "standard" shoulder bags (which can hold a lot more than backpacks).

It also helps to consider your lenses....which ones and their size. That will help dictate what you need.

 

[maroun.c]

I currently have the Lowepro Slingshot 200 and Lowepro Vertex 200 AW and the tamrack Cyberpack 8.
For your equipment I would suggest the Vertex 200 as the Tamrac is much bigger. I belive the Vertex 200 is the equivalent of the compu trecker but it's the new series which is a much improved build. waterproof, silent zippers, have adjustable gliding locks on the sides.
I would suggest you take your cameras and lenses and try to fit them in the bag yu intend to get before buying. most important is to adjust the bag with the load on your back to see how snuggly it fits you before you buy it.

 

[UH_OH_5_OH]

Thanks for the advice guys really !


I think I'm just gonna get a sherpa to carry all my crap !

 

[Phyl]

A Sherpa. Now that's a great idea.




Oh I have one. I call him John.