Need recommendations for backpack for computer/Tripod/Camera/etc.

[petra]

My wife and I are going to San Francisco at the end of April. I've outgrown my current camera bag when it comes to traveling. I need something that will hold my laptop (17inch), Rebel XT, Canon EFS 17-85 IS USM, EF 70-200 f/4L USM (hope to have it by then), EF 50mm, and my Velbon tripod. (Lot to ask of one little backpack.) You're suggestion would be appreciated. Hoping to keep this under $200.

One other question. Would it be better to take a monopod rather than a tripod? While the tripod provides a more stable platform, the monopod would be lighter and less obtrusive when in use. If you pick the monopod, please make suggestions on which one to get.


Thanks for your help.

Mark

[Teddington]

I've been real happy with my LowePro Computrekker AW. Well padded straps, hip strap and chests strap if you like or need them. Lots of room and good padding. Outside, center back tripod attachments. Cost about $145 as I recall.

I carry a 400MM f5.6, 70-300MM IS, 24-105L, 10-22L and a bunch of misc stuff and I've had a 580 EX II and a 50MM in there at the same time.

[Davidtxs]

go over to Houston Camera Exchange and see if they have the Think Tank Urban Disguise 60 its one of the few options for a 17" laptop
http://thinktankphoto.com/ttp_product_UrbnDsgs.php

[fivegrand]

I have a Tamrac Pro-9 backpack and really like it.

It fits two fullsize bodies, 70-200 2.8, 24-70 2.8, 50 1.8, 2x tc, two flashes, and my older mini DV camcorder in the main compartment. Then there is another compartment that fits flatter stuff (cf cards, business cards, cd's and etc) and my flash bracket. There's a third compartment that I keep a few small tools in, and a pouch that I keep cables in. On the side toward my back, there's a dedicated laptop compatment.

I don't remember what I paid for it, but I think it was a little higher priced than the Lowepro, but I also think it's padded and divided better and more sensibly.

[110240]

billingham bags or pelicase boxes. I find the benbo trekker tripod does everything right.

[toverman]

I'd go for a monopod on a trip, because some places aren't practical for using a tripod and others don't let you take one in. They tend to collapse smaller than most tripods, making them more likely to fit in your (new) camera bag. On a trip, if you carry a bag while walking around, you might want to keep the small one ... unlikely you'd need your laptop in every place.

As for a monopod recommendation, I'm looking for a good one myself.

[Michael Lyons]

Originally Posted by Davidtxs

go over to Houston Camera Exchange and see if they have the Think Tank Urban Disguise 60 its one of the few options for a 17" laptop
http://thinktankphoto.com/ttp_product_UrbnDsgs.php

i just got this bag yesterday, and its badass!!!!!!!!!!!

[swjim]

I also have the LowePro Computrekker AW and am very happy with it. My laptop only has a 15" display but it fits with some room to spare in the computer pocket, but you would need to confirm that it can handle the larger laptop.

[HFMarshburnJR]

If you are going to be hiking around the city, don't forget thinking about the Gorillapod as an alternative solution. Set up properly, it can serve you well and it is a lot easier to care for when hiking through SF.

HFM

[Lance]

Ive gone through about every bag out there and the TT UD60 as stated before has been my favorite as of the last year.

As far as the tripod. When I travel I have a small point and shoot for video and a full size camera. I usually take a mini tripod and make it work.

[petra]

Thanks for the opinions. I like the looks of the LowePro Computrekker. I'm going to go to Houston Camera Exchange or Camera Co-Op next week to see if they have one I can look at. I'll probably pick up a monopod while I'm there. I also like the Gorillapod and may order one somewhere down the line.

Mark

[j5uh]

how much does HCE sell the lowepro computrekker for? thinking about getting one but maybe ordering it on amazon.