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wildlifetrailphotography.com - Donald R. Curry

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Backpack for Hiking and Photography


I need a recommendation for a backpack for overnight hikes. I need room for a camera, 3-4 lenses and small accessories, as well as tripod, tent, sleeping bag, extra clothing, food, etc. Any suggestions?


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November 26, 2010

 
- Carlton Ward

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  Hello Donald,
I have 3 different camera backpacks but the 2 I use most ate both made by LowePro. I have the Vertex 300 which is very large and heavy when its loaded with gear. It also has a slot for a 17" laptop. It is easier to carry than it is to pick it up and the belt/shoulder harness cinches nicely and is very comfortable. I also use the smaller Lowepro Flipside 300 which will carry a camera and 3 lenses - or 2 lenses and a flash. Both of these have tripod straps.


Vertex 300

Flipside 300

I use the Vertex 300 AW for carrying my gear on airplanes and hikes when I need a lot of gear. Usually, once I get to where I am going, I will switch to the Flipside 300 which is much lighter and easier to work out of as the access to the bag is against you back but you can drop out of the shoulder straps and slide the bag around you by leaving the belt strap connected and it pops down in front of you so you can unzip and access the bag/change lenses, etc., without having to take the bag off or placing it on the ground.
These 2 work well for my needs and LowePro has earned respect from hikers, photographers & campers around the world with their quality craftsmanship, ingenuity and long lasting packs.

There are many to choose from so look around and see what looks like a good fit for you.
I went on a photo tour in 2008 through Europe with Jim Zuckerman, Deborah Sandidge, Stefania Barbier and 8 others who all were using Lowepro packs :)
Cheers.


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November 26, 2010

 
wildlifetrailphotography.com - Donald R. Curry

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  Thanks Carlton. Does the Vertex have a way to attach a light weight tent and sleeping bag?


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November 26, 2010

 
- Carlton Ward

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  Hi Donald,
Not really and I was looking at other bags to try to find one for you but there are a lot out there to choose from. I will reply back if I find one as I am in need of something similar myself :)
Cheers, Carlton


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November 26, 2010

 
- Carlton Ward

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  I have found a few and the Naneu Adventure K5 looks like a good functional pack. It has a pop out camera compartment.
I can usually get by with my Canon 5D Mk II with a 24-70, 70-200 & a 100-400mm lens with a carbon fiber tripod and this should fit easily enough.
Here is a list of some that look promising so search & read and see what you think,,,

DAKINE Mission Photo Backpack - 1500cu in
Mountainsmith Quantum Camera Backpack 1709cu in
Lowepro Orion AW
Lowepro Rover AW II
Burton F-Stop Pack - 28L

Naneu Adventure K5

Cheers,
Carlton


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November 26, 2010

 
wildlifetrailphotography.com - Donald R. Curry

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  Thanks Carlton, I will check these out.


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November 27, 2010

 
- Gregory LaGrange

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  There's also Tamrac.


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November 27, 2010

 
- Carlton Ward

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  Hey Donald,
If ALL you need to do is attach a sleeping bag, thin thermarest & tent, you could easily attach them to the sides of the Vertex 300 and also have some space for extra clothes or food stuffed in the laptop compartment if your not using that compartment for a laptop. I have power bars stuck in the main camera area (lens compartment) and other places scattered inside the pack. BUT if you need to carry a stove, lamps, and other camping gear, I dont think the Vertex would suffice unless you sacrifice some gear space.
Carlton


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November 27, 2010

 
wildlifetrailphotography.com - Donald R. Curry

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  That will probably work. I will likely only camp for one night each trip. I don't need much. Thanks Carlton.


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November 27, 2010

 

Barbara J. Beck
  Hi Donald, I have been backpacking and photographing for a long time. The best backpack I have found is the new Elite by CLIK. It holds stuff for two days has good belt and shoulder pads, compartment for water, a camera area, and lots of little places for cd cards etc. They were featured in Outdoor Photographer this fall. Check it out!

Barb Beck


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November 30, 2010

 
wildlifetrailphotography.com - Donald R. Curry

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  Thanks Barb, I will check it out


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November 30, 2010

 
wildlifetrailphotography.com - Donald R. Curry

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  Barb,

Is it the Elite Hiker or Nature backpack? I like both, but I'm not sure the Nature is large enough for an overnight hiking trip.


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November 30, 2010

 

doug Nelson
  If money is an issue, go to a surplus store and look at both the large and medium Army ALIC packs. These are Vietnam era, tough, vuluminous and made for carrying much heavier loads than what you are proposing to carry. They have a radio pocket next to the frame for a small camera bag. The lenses can go in the outside pockets for easy access. If you find the Army packframe uncomfortable, it can be modified by anyone with a heavy-duty sewing machine to fit any number of name brand frames (Kelty, Cabela's, etc) Go very light on the sleeping bag, mat and one-man tent, because you'll need to carry water, warmth layers and several meals.


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December 01, 2010

 
wildlifetrailphotography.com - Donald R. Curry

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  Thanks Doug, I will check this out as well.


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December 01, 2010

 
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