Camera Bags - Backpack vs Sling.

[Stephanie C]

Hi All,

I need a bag to carry my camera around in and I want a backpack style bag so that I can take it anywhere and still have my hands free.

I don't have a lot of gear yet but am slowly getting more, and I don't want to have to change bags too soon, so I want one with a bit of space to grow into and I need it to be able to carry other stuff like a water bottle (and my lunch).

I also don't have a lot of money, so I want to get it right the first time. I don't mind spending more to get the right one, but I don't want to spend more, then find that the other type would have been better.

What do people suggest? What are the Pro's and Con's?

Thanks for your help!

[Stephanie C]

Just realised this is in the wrong section...

How do I move it?

[emeraldln]

I got a Manfrotto backpack for Christmas this year. It has a tripod pocket down the side, which is pretty cool. It came with the tripod, and if I didn't have a ball head, it would fit totally in the pocket. With the ball head, it sticks out a little bit. But this way I don't have to fuss with straps and such for the tripod, I just slide it in the pocket.

[RichardTaylor]

From personal experience:
Sling bags are a lot more convenient, however they may stuff up your shoulder after a while, especially if you have a fair bit of gear in it.

A compromise (In carrying capacity compared to a full on backpack) is one of the bags you can access from the side, similar to the Lowepro Fastpack series. A few manufacturers make them and they do have room for the personal stuff although some of them do not have room for an external water bottle although you may be able to hang one off them using a caribiner.

I have a whole pile of camera bags including backpacks.

Where do you want to use your new bag. In the bush or city streets?

[Stephanie C]

I'm not really much of a city girl, so I will be mostly using it for bush and beach, parks and playgrounds. I will occasionally be venturing into the city, because I want to try it all, but I do prefer the country.
Thanks for the help, I'm such a novice that I need all the helf I can get!

[rosserx]

I'm shopping for a new bag too. I like this one a lot. Amazon.com: Clik Elite CE502BK Probody Sport (Black): Electronics

But I also like this one a lot too. Amazon.com: Tenba 638-221 Small Messenger (Black): Electronics

I don't know which way to go. Backpack or messenger. I want 'em both!

[RichardTaylor]

See what is available near where you live (we don't have the range thjat is some times available overseas).

Have a look at some of the reviews here.
Camera Bag Reviews - The Complete List - Canon Digital Photography Forums

Bags that I have used and may meet your needs (including carrying a water bottle and a few sandwiches as well as a poncho).
Lowepro Flipside 400 AW (can carry a fair amount of camera gear)
Lowepro Rover II AW (smaller amount of camera gear but more room for personal stuff)
Lowe pro fast pack 200. moderate amount of camera and small amount of personal gear + 1 water bottle, but very handy to use. This is the bag I take on overseas vacations.

Think Tank Airport Antidote - Huge ammount of camera gear and room in the laptop pocket for a poncho or light jacket + a couple of sandwiches. Only room for one 600ML water bottle.

[OsmosisStudios]

I have 4 bags and a belt system. I use them all. It really depends on what Im doing with them.

[jml79]

I wanted the do everything bag, Sling but also backpack for when your shoulder is sore and the option to sling either side. I found the Kata 3n1 system and I love it. Just my experience and what I could get locally. I am sure they are not the only ones to make a convertible sling/backpack bag.

[Stephanie C]

Originally Posted by jml79

I wanted the do everything bag, Sling but also backpack for when your shoulder is sore and the option to sling either side. I found the Kata 3n1 system and I love it. Just my experience and what I could get locally. I am sure they are not the only ones to make a convertible sling/backpack bag.

I like the look of that. Thanks!