Backpacks & Cameras

[venchka]

If you just need camera luggage that you can strap on your back once in awhile, I suppose the generic camera backpacks are ok. If you need to haul your gear far away from transportation, then a proper backpack is in order. I own several real backpacks and panniers for my bicycles. I am partial to Dana Designs, Odprey & Jandd Mountaineering simply because that's what I own. After some trial and error, I arrived that the 3 brands mentioned and haven't felt a need to look further. There are many other good brands of backpacks.

Both backpacks have internal frames and great suspensions. The Osprey is a panel loading all day to maybe weekend pack. The Dana Designs Terraplane is a classic top loading + bottom compartment load hauling monster. I'm sure I could put more stuff in it than I could pick up. The bicycle is outfitted with Jandd mountain bike panniers & handlebar bag. All 3 brands are built to last. Actually, built better than they have to be. I apprciate that when I have to load them up.

I thought this was about cameras?

I have pondered loading my camera gear in my various packs. I thought I would have to make this a D.I.Y. project. Then I discovered Photobackpacker.

Link to Photobackpacker

These folks make a series of camera and lens cases that will fit in standard backpacks. They also offer a decent Kelty pack to hold their cases. You'll need to do some measuring to make sure your gear will fit a particular case. From the dimensions, I think they have a case large enough for the Canon 70-200 L.

Lens cases:





Camera & lens cases in a Kelty Redwing:



I think that with some careful measuring you could fit these cases in an empty Pelican box too. If you run across a used Pelican box with shredded foam, ditch the foam and add Photobackpacker cases.

Final point: Until you have toted a load with a real backpack, you can't imagine the difference that a proper backpack suspension system makes. The camera bag backpacks don't come close.

Enjoy!

[ITRacer121]

Interesting....I was thinking some one should come up with something like this when I saw the neoprene lap top zip bags for carrying in a normal bag.

I do agree that most of the camera/laptop bags throw alot of foam in there for looks then functionality which just adds weight

[Big Dog]

Thanks for the post and testimonial Wayne!

I am on the life-long quest for the perfect camera case/bag/transporter/etc. I've been on Photobackpacker's site before, but may have to investigate further. Problem is, I'm a cheap SOB, and a bit lazy. I figure there are more pictures than I could ever take within 100 yards of my car.

But, then, there's also my signature line ...

[venchka]

Originally Posted by Big Dog

Thanks for the post and testimonial Wayne!

I am on the life-long quest for the perfect camera case/bag/transporter/etc. I've been on Photobackpacker's site before, but may have to investigate further. Problem is, I'm a cheap SOB, and a bit lazy. I figure there are more pictures than I could ever take within 100 yards of my car.

But, then, there's also my signature line ...

I spent some time with the Osprey panel loading, flexible frame backpack last night. So far I like it.

1. 2 rangefinder bodies & 4 lenses went in the 2 outside pockets with room to spare.

2. The Speed Graphic goes in first like it was made for the pack or vice-versa. Wrapped in some foam sheeting that I've gotten as packing material. Snug as a bug in the rug.

3. The 100 year old 7 7/8" Voigtlander lens & Graphic lensboard went in a Glad storage container. The Minolta Auto Meter went in anotther Glad container! I'm excited about this. I'm going to K-Roger and look for some other sizes. These things rock & next to free.

4. Plenty of room left for the EOS-1 & a pair of "L" lenses. The tripod straps on the outside.

5. Film, film holders, Grafmatic back, etc. in various nooks & crannies.

6. Money saved on not buying another backpack: $$$.

[rph]

I was thinking about doing something like this with lowepro sleeves or maybe think tank...
This may work even better...

[venchka]

Places like REI and Gander Mountain should have a pretty good selection of packs. My Osprey pack is a full torso length panel loader. Lots of room and and nice big space for odd sized things.