Advice on camera backpacks: I am hoping that someone could advise me on a good backpack to buy for my DSLR camera and lenses. I have been looking at the Caden shoulder packs but the...

welshgypsy Loc: North Wales UK

I am hoping that someone could advise me on a good backpack to buy for my DSLR camera and lenses. I have been looking at the Caden shoulder packs but the reviews are hit and miss so has anyone tried one and if so would you recommend it? I like the idea of being able to slide it around to the front without taking it off but am also aware that I need good safety aspects which is a more important quality.
I do a lot of walking (and some cycling) and need a bag that sits comfortably on my back without being too heavy.
Any advice would be gratefully received

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

I have a Ruggard Thunderhead 35 that distributes the weight well and has wonderfully padded shoulder and waist straps. Also, it has compartments for everything and, thanks to velcro, many compartments can be customized.

RAS24 Loc: South Texas coast

I have a Slingshot Edge 150 AW from LOWEPRO. I can slip it over my head and carry it on my shoulder, and then when needed it can be turnaround to my chest and get anything I need out of the case without taking it off. Works for me

rgrenaderphoto Loc: Hollywood, CA

Can you get Mindshift Gear products in the U.K? The Backlight 26L will hold more than enough gear, and is back opening, so you can swing it around and open without taking the pack off.

welshgypsy Loc: North Wales UK

rgrenaderphoto wrote:

Can you get Mindshift Gear products in the U.K? The Backlight 26L will hold more than enough gear, and is back opening, so you can swing it around and open without taking the pack off.

Hi there I can get Mindshift products in the UK but my budget won't stretch that far but thanks for recommendation

welshgypsy Loc: North Wales UK

UTMike wrote:

I have a Ruggard Thunderhead 35 that distributes the weight well and has wonderfully padded shoulder and waist straps. Also, it has compartments for everything and, thanks to velcro, many compartments can be customized.

Hi Can't get these in the UK and shipping costs are very pricey, as much as the bag!! Thanks for recommendation though

welshgypsy Loc: North Wales UK

RAS24 wrote:

I have a Slingshot Edge 150 AW from LOWEPRO. I can slip it over my head and carry it on my shoulder, and then when needed it can be turnaround to my chest and get anything I need out of the case without taking it off. Works for me

Thanks for the recommendation took a look on the net last night, was very impressed so there's one on the way to me now

Chief_Warrant

I have a VAS, and I like it so much that it has become my only kit bag. It holds two bodies (one with a battery grip) and, at present seven lenses and a strobe. Yes, it's a bit heavy, but that could easily be scaled back if an issue. In addition, it has a ton of pockets, a sleeve for a tablet or laptop, a side pocket for a medium-size tripod and a provided rain cover. It also has all the back support strap bells and whistles of many really good regular-use backpacks.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

welshgypsy wrote:

I am hoping that someone could advise me on a good... (show quote)

I like Lowepro, and especially my 350.

https://www.amazon.com/Lowepro-Fastpack-DSLR-Camera-Backpack/dp/B000YIWR8G

par4fore Loc: Bay Shore N.Y.

welshgypsy wrote:

I am hoping that someone could advise me on a good... (show quote)

Tenba Backpack is the best for me.

ggenova64

MindShift is now Think Tank!

kellerlane

Like many who are seeking a product to address various needs and concerns, real and imagined, I am an extensive researcher. I will spend any amount to satisfy the objective of my pursuit.

My typical use for a camera backpack is short hikes, less than two miles. Once at my destination, I remove the pack and then wander short distances away from the gear. (Not if people are near)

My criteria was a bag that would hold my 300 2.8, my 300-500 5.6, 70-200 2.8, 24-70 2.8, my 850 body with lens attached, two teleconverters, misc. cloths, filters and water. I also desired backpack style straps to include waiste and chest belts. (yes itÃ¢ÂÂs heavy when loaded which is why I wanted a good harness system)

Having recently spent my year or so of due diligence researching camera packs, I wound up purchasing DomkeÃ¢ÂÂs Ã¢ÂÂOutPackÃ¢ÂÂ for around $70 shipped on eBay. These are not modern bags, and for all I know are no longer in production. After months of use I am enjoying the elusive condition of being well satisfied with my purchase.

Good luck with your search.

BobHartung Loc: Bettendorf, IA

welshgypsy wrote:

I am hoping that someone could advise me on a good... (show quote)

Good Luck! I have a closet full of failed backpack purchases. Be careful to inspect personally with your gear in hand to make sure you can configure the dividers to your satisfaction.

I recently purchased a backpack with a side access door. Well, it turns out the side access door in lined with plastic on the inside and I cannot attach any dividers to that area. Gets expensive eating the cost of returns and most small camera stores have a very limited supply of packs from which to choose.

billnourse Loc: Bloomfield, NM

I have been happy with LowPro flipsides. Have a 400 and a 500. The 500 holds so much stuff that it is really heavy, but the lesser bags like the 350 and below might be just the ticket.

Bill

Country Boy Loc: Beckley, WV

One thing I would suggest is getting one that will carry everything you want. Like you, I am walking or cycling a good bit of time and I purchased a smaller backpack to reduce weight and bulk. I have other carry cases but I would not let the weight or size make your choice for you. Get something that will carry all the accessories you desire and the difference in weight will matter very little.