Backpacking camera packs HELP!

[degodan9]

So I'm planning on taking a 5-7 day backpacking trip through the Sierra with my brother and I wouldn't want to do so without my 4x5. I have some pretty good bags by Lowepro but they are more oriented toward day hikes, not so much backpacking. Sadly, tehre doesn't seem to be much out there. All I can find are the Clik Elite Large Hiker pack and the RPT/Kelty Redwing sold on photobackpacker.com. Since these seem to be my only option to carry camping gear+camera gear for longer excursions, I would like to know if anyone has any experience with either of them. Or if there is anything else out there that I haven't been able to find. I just need a framed backcountry pack that will hold a 4x5 with two lenses, 10 or so film holders, a meter, loupe, tripod, and the bare bones camping gear. Luckily my brtehr has volunteered to carry any gear that I may not be able to handle. Thanks ahead of time to everyone for your comments.

 

[MFstooges]

Have you checked Naneu Adventure K5?

Nathan

 

[domaz]

Just get a regular big backpacking pack (Gregory's are great) then strap a camera bag to the outside with some carabiners and webbing. It may look silly but it comes off easily as a unit and you have quick access to your camera. Just make sure you get a pack that has a daisy-chain on the back or is otherwise easy to strap things to.

 

[coigach]

Here's the backpacking sac I use. The extra straps were added by a company here in Scotland but I'm sure a specialist outdoor equipment maker would be able to do the same for you in the USA. With a padded bag to put your 4x5 inside this rucsac, things should work great...

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Here's another thread with useful info about backpacking with camera gear:

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Enjoy your trip!

Cheers,
Gavin

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[wiggywag]

Im using this system and it is great:

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[photobackpacker]

degodan9:

You are correct, camera backpacks are essentially daypacks designed to haul a full kit to a shooting location and back. What you are looking for is an expedition pack with sufficient room to handle an slimmed-down 4x5 kit.

I have had several customers who have done this where they buy top-of-the line expidition packs of 4500 cubic inches or more and use my system to set up a system that can be used out of the pack - hiking out from their base camp. Others have trimmed down their kit to fit in smaller shooting packs that they lash to the top of their main pack. In either case, your first concern is to find a pack that fits you and the camping gear you will be carrying. This will give you an idea of how "skinny" your 4x5 kit will need to be. You will be hauling a good bit of weight so a well designed pack that is a great fit for your physique is essential.

Be sure to check Gregory and Granite Gear. They both make excellent packs.

Bruce