Camera Backpack for Trekking/Safari/Road Trip

Cookiescream on 08/11/2021 - 08:48

Hi ozbargainers

I am going on a safari/trekking/road trips next year (if covid allows it). This bag will also be used as my hand luggage when taking flights.

I have been looking at Camera backpacks and there are hardly any deals here, although there are plenty of photographers. And I am very confused by the options and reviews.

I would like the bag to have the following:
- Camera gear accessible via side or back. But def not the front.
- At least 28 L, so it fits my mirrorless camera plus 3 lenses, plus a change of clothes and a small jacket + snacks + gear like laptop/tablet.
- a pouch on the side for water bottles.
- an easy to attach stuff to carry a tripod.

I have been looking at the lowepro flipside backpacks on 350 aw but happy and interested to hear other opinions.

Electrical & Electronics Camera Backpack Backpack

Comments

  • skid on 08/11/2021 - 09:10
    +1

    Yes, was just about to suggest lowepro too. Also interested in hearing other opinions.

  • dust on 08/11/2021 - 09:52

    What lenses are you trying to fit in it? The reason I ask is if you're using it for safari type photography, will you have a huge lens in there? (400mm+?) Because if so, I don't think they'll fit into a regular sized backpack that easily.

    • Cookiescream on 08/11/2021 - 11:10

      Hi Dust! My biggest lens is 300 mm, and I am not getting anything bigger than that. I have heard different people saying don't worry as much as you will see stuff.

      I am gambling on that.

      My current setup is canon, but I will probably buy a mirrorless g85 or g95 (waiting on Black Friday sale), as it is lighter.

  • Caped Baldy on 08/11/2021 - 10:18
    +1

    I've got a lowepro whistler 450 AW - can't remember if it's the v1 or v2. Comes in a 35L version which I'd recommend as it's not as bulky and cumbersome and within airline limits.
    It does have hip strap which helps take the load off your back. Comes with a rainshell but the fabric is pretty water resistant. It's got painted zips which are already flaking without a crazy amount of use.

    Peak Design have a couple travel backpacks but are not really aimed at trekking.

    For backpacks it's important, ergonomics wise, to have heavier items (eg laptop) closer to your back. So look for backpacks that have sleeves on the back or be prepared to pack accordingly.

    • Cookiescream on 08/11/2021 - 10:44

      Wow thank you very much

  • Yizzur on 09/11/2021 - 21:41

    I have a Peak Design Everyday 20L backpack and love it. That being said, with a 300mm lens you won't have much space left for anything other than your camera gear. Given your use case the bigger size will be a better option.

    As Baldy mentioned above it's not really made for trekking- it's a comfortable enough harness for a day out in town, or a couple of hours on a trail, but I wouldn't want to rely on it for a full day trekking.

    The side and top access is its best feature, and I'd steer clear of a pack that only offers rear access purely for the fact that you have to stop, take it off and put it down to get your camera out or change lenses. Side access is- IMHO- far preferable.

    Your other option is a camera cube inside another bag. If you can find a hiking pack that fits the bill then Peak Design, Wandrd, Tenba and a plethora of others make protective cases that will fit inside.

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