Need Backpack Recommendation PLEASE!

[gregkendallball]

I just sent the box containing the Tamrac Adventure 9 back to Amazon. I thought it would be a great option, but I soon realized its limitations (only due to size, not build quality).

So, I'm back here asking for some help.

In January I am traveling to Northern Uganda (almost to Sudan...really, really remote and some rough roads to get there) and need to take the following:

1x 40D (w/grip attached)
1x 30D
24-70mm f/2.8 L
17-40mm f/4 L
70-200mm f/4 L
50mm f/1.4
430EX
15" MacBook Pro
Battery chargers, cables, memory cards, rocket blower, etc.

I am looking at the LowePro Vertex 200 AW (recommended by a friend), but I am looking for any other options that won't set me back by 200 bucks. Is the CompuTrekker AW a good option?

Anyone using anything that would solve all my problems?

Oh yeah, and it needs to fit in the overhead bin, or under the seat, and not LOOK like it weighs 30 pounds! I am also not entirely locked into a backpack, especially if a Pelican would be the better option...

Thanks for all the help...

[Scunner]

The Kata R-103 may well do the job for you. I got one last week and it easily holds more equipment than you've listed. Amazon have them on sale for $135.

http://www.amazon.com/Kata-KT-R-103-GDC-Rucksack/dp/B0009PYV6K

[gregkendallball]

Thanks, Scunner...

The more I look at the Pelican 1510, the more I am intrigued by it. Has anyone here had experience with it? I'll be in Uganda in the dry season and have been warned that it will be incredibly dusty. Obviously, the Pelican is attractive in that regard.

But, I'm wondering about the MBP. Just throw it in another "backpack" as my "personal item?" I'm flying American Eagle from my home town to Houston (crappy little commuter planes), and then on Emirates all the way to Uganda, so I don't anticipate any transport problems (no BA on this trip! Hooray!)

[nutsnbolts]

Be careful with American Eagle. They are really small planes! Hence, really small overhead and leg storage.

I would suggest a Lowepro Vertex 200 or any of the Thinktank backpacks. There is even an UltraLight version that will compliment a Pelican case.

Check it out here. (CLICK ME) (http://www.thinktankphoto.com/ttp_product_ArprtUltrlght.php)

[gregkendallball]

Nutsbolts,

I know! They always make me Gate Check my 22" roller, which is a joke. I just hope they don't expect me to check $5000+ worth of camera equipment for the short hop to Dallas.

One bonus, though, is the "segments." Makes reaching Elite status so much easier...

But year, the planes suck.

[nutsnbolts]

Nutsbolts,

I know! They always make me Gate Check my 22" roller, which is a joke. I just hope they don't expect me to check $5000+ worth of camera equipment for the short hop to Dallas.

One bonus, though, is the "segments." Makes reaching Elite status so much easier...

But year, the planes suck.

I barely can fit my 17" rolling laptop bag. Thank goodness it's usually a short ride.