Time we had another "what bag" thread!

[julian_fraser]

I'm trying to come up with a short-list for a new bag... I want something that will be comfortable enough to do for day-trips but that will also fit ALL my kit if need be. Another big want for me is a separate section for food, jumper etc.

My list so far is this...can any owners of the following bags share their opinions and thoughts?

Lowepro Vertex 200 - but it doesn't have extra space (unless you count the laptop space).

Lowepro Fastpack 350 - I like the look, and the PRICE, of this.

Tamrac Expedition 7X - similar to the Vertex 200 from what I can see with lots of pockets too.

Tamrac Adventure 9 - a big combination daypack/camera bag but is it TOO big?

My main kit comprises:

D700 with 24-70 lens
70-300mm lens
50mm
SB-600 flash
USB lead, spare CF cards, off-camera flash lead, camera cloth, battery charger etc

I then also have a D40 with 18-55, a 15.4" w/s laptop, and a x2 TC that I'd like to be able to fit in on occasion.

Thanks

[TarMoo]

The Kata467 may be of interest. Has a section for a laptop + 2 others - 1 for camera and another for other stuff.

[Sorj]

Crumpler Daily series.. i have a S and XXL size

[julian_fraser]

I'm not sure the Kata would be big enough for my everyday kit Tarmoo, would it? I did look at the Kata range, nice bags but a bit pricey the ones I saw...

Sorj - thanks but I want a backpack - I should have mentioned that!

[The Android]

I've got the Vertex. I think there should be plenty of room for all your kit. No room for food or clothing really, unless you were to use the laptop section. I suppose you could squeeze a jumper or small waterproof in the laptop section, but I wouldn't think food would fit and it would get squashed.

The backpack itself is quite big and if you fully load it, it can get quite heavy. There is plenty of adjustment on the straps so you can get the weight exactly where you want it on your back. The waist support sits very comfortably and gives lots of support. I can load 2 bodies (40D + 350D), lenses (only 3 but room for more), flash, chargers, leads, cleaning solution + pec pads, wireless remote trigger, filters, laptop and more. Then strap my 055B tripod and geared head (heavy beast) onto the backpack and carry it comfortably. Don't get me wrong it is heavy, but due to the way you can shift how the weight sits on your back you can carry a lot more weight than you think.

Hope this helps.

[Sorj]

Originally Posted by julian_fraser

Sorj - thanks but I want a backpack - I should have mentioned that!

no worries mate. My friend has got himself a crumpler warm shower series and it makes him look like a turtle

[julian_fraser]

Thanks Android.

Anyone got a Fastpack or Tamrac?

[Matty777]

I have a Fastpack 250.

Holds Lappy, Canon 30D, 70-200L f/4, Tok 11-16, Sigma 18-50 f/2.8 Room for other bits.

I personnally like it, but no tripod strap and AW cover is a bit of a nuicance.

If you intend to fly, the 350 may be oversized.

[allymac123]

I've the Tamrac adventure 9. I don't think its too big. Infact I can't fit my 100Macro in the camera compartment with all my other stuff! You can take it on as hand lugggage if you want.

[SAuchterlonie]

I also have a Tamrac Adventure 9.....nice bag, but I think I'm just getting to much stuff now!

Simon

[Sorj]

I have heard some pros go through a lot of bags in their lifetime. How many bags do you have or have gone through?

ATM i have 2. 1 for just camera+lens and a space for another lens. The other has many compartments for 2 bodys and 8+ lenses, to top it all off there is a compartment for a 17" laptop.