Camera Backpack Suggestions

[AusumInSD]

Hello,
So here is my first post in this forum. I really do like this site for trying new things with my camera.

So here is my dilemma. I have been using a small simple bag for my camera which only allows for one extra lens and now looking for an upgrade. I have looked into both the Tamac Areo Speed Pack 75 and the Lowepro Fastpack 200.

Does anyone use these backpacks?

My question is do you like it, and is there enough room in the top compartment to carry kid supplies i.e diapers, snacks, etc.

I ask is because my family and I frequently go to amusement parks and would like to condense my camera bag and the kids bag.

Any suggestions?

[starrylaurie]

Well, I use the LowePro Slingshot backpack. It's a one-shouldered backpack that allows enough room for my D80, 2 lenses, batteries & chargers (I'm a teacher -- need that with me all the time.), speedlight, remote, cards and my random stuff like my phone, keys & iPod. There's plenty of room in there for other stuff and I got the smaller Slingshot. The larger one may be just what you're looking for. (The one-shoulder carry makes it easily accessible & good for your back!)

Also, it may just be easier to take your equipment + diaper bag into your local photog store and "try out" different bags.

EDIT to say: I would think the top section is *not* large enough for diapers in the smaller bag, though.

[AusumInSD]

Originally Posted by starrylaurie

Well, I use the LowePro Slingshot backpack. It's a one-shouldered backpack that allows enough room for my D80, 2 lenses, batteries & chargers (I'm a teacher -- need that with me all the time.), speedlight, remote, cards and my random stuff like my phone, keys & iPod. There's plenty of room in there for other stuff and I got the smaller Slingshot. The larger one may be just what you're looking for. (The one-shoulder carry makes it easily accessible & good for your back!)

Also, it may just be easier to take your equipment + diaper bag into your local photog store and "try out" different bags.

EDIT to say: I would think the top section is *not* large enough for diapers in the smaller bag, though.

"try out different bags". I'll have to do that sometime.. How is the sling part of the backpack. I've heard that it puts uneven weight on the shoulder.

[RichardTaylor]

I use a Fastpack 200.
It is a good bag, and it is the bag main bag I take on vacations.
Being a backpack it doesn't wreck your shoulder when full loaded and if you have just one camera/lens in it it is easy to access the camera without taking the bag off.

The bottom compartment has room for two cmaeras with lenses attached.

Example: Canon 40D + Canon 100-400 F4.5-F5.6 IS L lens and a Canon 350D with a Canon 17-85 IS lens.



Or with a Canon 70-300 IS lens on a 5D


The top compartment has enough room for a scrunched up, hip length, nylon, mens rain jacket, But that is about it. There is room for a very small amount of stuff in an outside pocket on the top - maybe a small fold up umbrella etc. If you are only carrying one extra lens you could put a couple of unused diapers in the camera compartment.

[jpc]

I just bought one by Naneu. The Military Ops line, Echo-X model. It is big, a sling style, lots of pockets... I was looking at the Slingshot 200 series and felt it was too small for what I wanted. I wanted something that I could use for some time as I expanded my equipment inventory. The top portion is large and opens up to the bottom portion. The bottom portion opens on the side. The bag has 5 extra pockets for storage besides the two main ones (top and bottom). I was able to put my Canon Rebel XSi with the 18-55 lens attached, the 55-250 and the 75-300 lens with the flash unit in the bottom half and still have room for more equipment. I was able to get this for $130 at a local camera store.
I wasn't comfortable purchasing a bag online as I wanted to physically see it in front of me. I am glad I did too. See if you can find a local store that has some of these bags for you to look and and physically touch. Take some of your equipment with you for a better visual. It may save on returning a bag you are not happy with.