Backpack bag...Tamrac Expedition 4 vs. Lowepro mini trekker

[Shakespeare]

TAMRAC 5274 EXPEDITION 4

LOWEPRO MINI TREKKER

Both of these bags look very similar and I can get them for the same price. But I’ve never been able to hold the Tamrac in person, while I’ve seen the Mini Trekker in four different shops. Does anyone know if the Tamrac offers any advantage, or should I just go with the Lowe?

[G2Jim]

I haven't seen the Tamrac bag either, but I own the Lowepro Mini Trekker backpack and am very happy with it. My only wish is that it was waterproof. I used it on a recent hiking/camping trip and my gear got a bit damp. I'm planning on spraying it with an aerosol water repellant, but havent' gotten around to it yet. That may be one consideration; to get a bag already water repellant off the shelf.

[HJMinard]

I have the Tamrac and I've seen the LowePro ... they're pretty much the same bag with regard to size, features and quality. To me these two brands are pretty much a mirror of each other, and I see no reason to prefer one over the other.

[scottbergerphoto]

I use the Expedition 5 and I am very happy with it. It's made really well and holds alot. I also have the Photo Trekker AWII. It's also made very well but alot bigger.
Regards,
Scott

[Shakespeare]

Can anyone speak to the water resistance of the Tamrac?

[Olegis]

From what I have seen, the Tamrac has a little bit thicker padding, both on the straps and on the back. Personally I have the Mini-Trekker AW, which holds all my current photo equipment - 10D, 70-200 f/2.8L with reversed hood, 100mm f/2.8 macro, 50mm f/1.8 MkII, Tamron 28-75 f/2.8, Sigma 15-30, Canon 380EX flash, spare battery, CF cards, filters, Lumiquest pocket bouncer. You can strap the tripod on the outside as well.

I'm extremely happy with this backpack.

[HJMinard]

Can anyone speak to the water resistance of the Tamrac?

Well, it is water resistant, but certainly not waterproof. It has a rainflap to help keep water off the zipper. I have not, as yet, tested the limit of resistance.

[leony]

Tamrac uses water resistant sippers and a rain flap over them. I've had Tamrac 5259 (http://tamrac.com/5259.htm) and while it's not a "water tight" case that will float in the water it did keep all my gear dry through a 2 hour hike in heavy rain once.

...i didn't like hiking in the rain that much so i haven't been looking for an opportunity to test the bag further...

[Shakespeare]

Okay, unless I hear a strong opinion one way or the other, it sounds like the Tamrac might have a bit better water resistance. Thanks all for your help (even though it is a few cubic inches smaller).

S