backpack recommendations

polyglot

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Hey all,

I currently have a Kata 3N1-30 and Crumpler 7 Million Dollar Home. They can both fit either my RZ67 or 4x5 systems, but the Crumpler causes me serious back pain due to the asymmetrical shoulder loading once I get 12kg in there and walk for 10km. I'd like to get another backpack a bit like the Kata, preferably with a little more room and absolutely no less than 30L.

Has anyone got recommendations for current model photo backpacks with a strong hip strap (to unload the shoulders), plenty of padding including velcro dividers, no laptop compartment and around 30-35L of volume? The ability to strap on a tripod (like the Kata has) is desirable. Under $200, cheaper and lightly-used is fine if you want to get rid of one! (I just missed a 3N1-30 for $80 shipped on eBay due to not paying attention)
 

Nuff

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Barry Kirsten

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I can't remember where I got this info, possibly when I was buying a Photobackpacker outfit for carrying 4x5 gear, but I distinctly remember being told that the aim of a good backpack was to distribute the load across the hips, not the shoulders. I remember this advice was contrary to what many people, myself included, assume about backpacks. For sure, smaller packs probably load the shoulders, but large photo backpacks extend down to the hip region and I understand the design rationale is that the load is carried down low to prevent back pain.
 
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polyglot

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Nuff: the ThinkTank seems to be 25L if you multiply out the internal dimensions. It'd probably be 30 if it didn't have the laptop compartment, which is why I'm looking for one without. I don't carry a laptop, so such compartments are just wasted mass+volume to me.

Barry: exactly. That's why I'm looking for one with a good hip strap. The Kata is pretty good in this respect - I've done 20km walks with it, no trouble.
 

Dr Croubie

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I've got a Lowepro Pro-runner 350AW that's got a decent hip-strap support system. Looks like Nuff's just a bit thinner overall, that looks like a 35mm camera end-on next to the tri-x?
It's not the deepest thing in the world though, can get my 7D/3 in there fine, P6/K60/Hasselbladski with WLF only, gotta take off the prism, so maybe an RZ would be a bit big, but there is the 450 that's bigger than mine.
edit: just checked B+H, my 350 is 11cm-deep and the 450 is 17cm deep internally. They've both got laptop slots, but honestly (at least with my laptop) it's too thick to fit in. If you don't have a Mac Air or something, just accept the laptop slot as extra spine padding.
Twincity (grenfell/adelaide arcade) had a decent range when I got mine, it's worth going in to check them out and try on.
 
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rince

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I would also recommend the ThinkTank Streetwalker. Even though I do not carry a laptop with me either, I like the extra space for film holders with convenient access. I usually put my film holders in a neopren sleeve for extra protection. Also it is the most comfortable backpack I ever owned. Plenty of room in there for my RZ a couple of lenses and my ShenHao 4x5 at the same time with all the essential accessories I usually need. I would say it is at least worth a closer look.
 

coigach

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A backpack for carrying any proper weight (as opposed to a day sac) should definitely fit your hips and let them take the weight. Your shoulders will thank you...

You might find this thread useful?:
(there was a url link here which no longer exists)
 
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Regular Rod

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Can you reconsider your budget? If so then take a long look at Photobackpacker. It's a system for life. The reduction in fatigue is amazing, giving you a longer range and more enthusiasm and energy for the photography when you get there. I use mine for 8x10 and wouldn't part with it. Not only is it very comfortable to wear, but the clever way the "boxes" go together inside the backpack means that you are more or less automatically organised in the field. Personally, I have certainly never been so well organised as the Photobackpacker now "makes" me.

Being in Australia, you have an advantage right now in that shipping is currently free world wide.

Dead Link Removed

If you get lost in the specification process on the website (I did) just email Bruce and he will help you.

I have no connection with Photobackpacker other than being a very delighted customer.

RR
 

nwilkins

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I have a lowepro pro runner 350 aw which has good hip support. it fits:

RB67 body
4 lenses
2x120 backs
filters and hoods
lots of film
chimney finder
light meter
 

jeffreyg

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I have used a Tamrac 787 for fifteen years in all types of weather and at times when loaded weight up to thirty pounds and can agree that a pack that is adjustable for both fit and organization is well worth the price. Consider the cost of the equipment it is loaded with, durability over a long period of time and avoiding visits to your friendly orthopedist make investing in a proper backpack a good decision.

http://www.jeffreyglasser.com/
 

photobackpacker

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Polygot:

The key to getting "felt weight reduction" is fit. With an excellent fit, your load will feel lighter than it is. Fit involves 3 critical elements - torso length, waist size and chest size.

If you are hiking long distances or want the option to do so, look at packs that have the ability to match your torso length, waist and chest sizes. One size will not fit all.

Good Luck.

Bruce
 

Kirks518

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LowePro Flipside 400AW - huge hipstraps, big enough, and excellent weight distribution. And can be had for $58 on ebay, or $129 from BH/Adorama.
 
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Sirius Glass

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If you can find them Tamrack 750 or 752 backpacks are well designed and have belts to transfer the weight to the hips. I use them for my Hasselblads and 4"x5" cameras
 

Old_Dick

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From John Reed in http://www.largeformatphotography.info

"We are going to Yellowstone/Grand Tetons in the middle of July and I'm, of course, taking my Sinar F1 along for the ride."
"I've got he whole rig in a backpack using a Renaissance set up. I did over six miles on Inishmor last month. Not bad for three score and ten."

Dick
 

ceeras

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I very recently acquired a P3 pack from Photobackpacker. At the same time, I ordered two MF/SLR enclosures (one for RB67, one for 35mm/DSLR). The pack has ample capacity and appears to have high build quality. As a veteran (but not recent) backpacker, I can say that the suspension system is astonishingly good, and following the instructions to get a perfect fit was not terribly difficult. It fits me like a glove. The pack also fits the enclosure like a glove, of course, and each enclosure each arrived with more than enough partitioning materials to get the job done. Carrying the RB with 90mm and 180mm lenses, Luna-Pro, three backs, two viewfinders, shade, filters, tripod and the usual small items is a walk in the park compared with carrying the tripod on one shoulder and everything else in a shoulder bag. Alternatives to the enclosure kits are available. The downside is that Photobackpacker will soon close its doors, so time is of the essence. On the other hand, prices are ridiculously low. Like RR, I have no connection with Photobackpacker other than my status as a very happy customer. - ceeras
 

Kilgallb

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The problem with a Lowepro label is you might as well write steal me on the bag.

I use an old Mountain Equipment back pack complete with Canadian flag. I put my camera inside an inner bag and can pack lenses and accessories in other small containers.
 

mgb74

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I like my Mountainsmith and Lowepro photo backpacks for lots of gear and hiking.

But I'm thinking of a sling style bag when walking with less gear and more urban environments. I want something that I can get at without setting it down but more comfortable than a shoulder bag. My "kit" would be a Nikon F100 with mid-range zoom, a wide angle prime, small flash, and maybe a longer zoom. If for no other reason than the height of the camera body, a larger sling bag would be necessary.

Any experience with sling style bags and whether they fulfill the promise of comfortable carry and easy access?
 
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