Backpack Suggestion for a Heavy Set Guy

[JonathanCombs]

I am in the market for a backpack and was hoping to get some suggestions. I am 5'10" and weigh just under 300 pounds. I'm trying to find a pack that fits right, with waist/sternum straps (if it has them) that fit without being incredibly unflattering. I want the camera to be easily accessible, so was either considering something like a Lowepro Slingshot or a Tamrac bag that I could use the Backpack Camera Straps with (so at least the weight of the camera isn't around my neck all day). I'm hoping to spend less than $150 if possible.

The gear I will be carrying is a Nikon D40 with an attached 18-135mm lens, a 70-300mm lens, a flash (similar in size to the SB-600) and possibly a 2x teleconverter. I'd like to have room for an additional lens if possible, but it isn't an absolute necessity. I'd also like to be able to attach and carry a lightweight tripod.

There are a couple of other options I would like, but aren't entirely necessary. The first is a laptop compartment to carry a 10 inch netbook. The second is a compartment to carry my binoculars. I'm not expecting to find a pack with a compartment large enough for the binoculars (Nikon Action Extreme 10 x 50), but any bag that fit my other requirements and held the binoculars would be a great find.

I appreciate any help or suggestions as well as feedback from anyone who has been in a similar situaiton.

[harrypalmer044]

Hi there,
I have to be honest and say I am a big fella too and have a couple of different camera bags for different occasions. Yesterday I was out with a group from this site and took along my faithful back pack. Here's a link you might find interesting. I hope it helps,
Also my I say "Welcome" to a great site and fantastic community. I hope you find what your looking for here and I look forward to seeing some of your work soon.
http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/reviews/camera-bags/127262/lowepro-flipside-200-backpack.html
Regards
David

[ddr]

Video bags camera bags Kata - Manufacturer of camera bags

They also make this w/o the laptop compartment - the 3N1-30
and lower sizes - the 3N1-20 and 3N1-10

if you buy from bhphoto I think they were giving away the tripod harness for free