Bag that's just big enough for my kit?

[lewdog]

Horrible title, I know. I have a Moutainsmith Odyssey backpack. Great backpack and holds everything in my kit. My goal in getting this pack was to have something that would literally let me store all my photo stuff and carry it comfortably-I wanted to also be able to grab and go. What I've found, however, is that it's kind of a pain to navigate crowds in (I think I've actually accidentally bonked little kids with my tripod hanging off) or really tight spaces. I'd really like to get a second bag that I can use to take for a day trip if I need something more maneuverable that will hold just my camera and lenses. I have:

50D
70-200 4IS
17-55IS
10-22
50 1.8
hoods for above lenses

I was thinking something like the Kata 3n1-20 or maybe the Lowepro Slingshot 200AW. In the end, I want something that will be easy access and just big enough to comfortably and safely carry the equipment listed above (plus maybe a couple batteries/memory cards).

Any suggestions?

[Wilt]

Horrible title, I know. I have a Moutainsmith Odyssey backpack. Great backpack and holds everything in my kit. My goal in getting this pack was to have something that would literally let me store all my photo stuff and carry it comfortably-I wanted to also be able to grab and go. What I've found, however, is that it's kind of a pain to navigate crowds in (I think I've actually accidentally bonked little kids with my tripod hanging off) or really tight spaces. I'd really like to get a second bag that I can use to take for a day trip if I need something more maneuverable that will hold just my camera and lenses. I have:

50D
70-200 4IS
17-55IS
10-22
50 1.8

I was thinking something like the Kata 3n1-20 or maybe the Lowepro Slingshot 200AW. In the end, I want something that will be easy access and just big enough to comfortably and safely carry the equipment listed above (plus maybe a couple batteries/memory cards).

Any suggestions?

Investigate Lowepro bags. They have many lines of bags, and very often each line comes in multiple sizes! I use the Stealth Reporter series, because it has exterior attachment points for Lowepro lens cases as needed, the bag can be supplemented with a waist belt or harness, and it has a waterproof cover system built into it for when it pours unexpectedly.

[lewdog]

I've looked at some Lowepro stuff and kind of wondered about their durability. I am sort of a backpacker and really like things that are super durable like most backpacking stuff-ballistic nylon, strong zippers, etc. I don't know all of the Lowepro stuff, but the stuff that I've seen has made me wonder how it would stand up to long-term use. Thoughts?

[xenomorphic]

I believe Lowepro is actually very good quality, but I have little experience with the brand myself. I do know ThinkTank though, and www.thinktankphoto.com (http://www.thinktankphoto.com) has a number of bags and backpacks. All their stuff is extremely well made and extremely durable.

James

[tvphotog]

Lowepro Stealth Reporter series. There are six or seven sizes in the series, the 300 AW is just about what would fit your gear, with one lens on the camera. Very high tech bags with lots of features, not pretty like the Crumplers.

[lewdog]

Actually, the Stealth Reporter bags look really cool. Looking at them, however, made me realize that I would like something in the small backpack or sling form factor because I want to be able to walk reasonable distances (like, hiking in the desert this summer) and have it not be bouncing around.

[xenomorphic]

I would like something in the small backpack or sling form factor

ThinkTank StreetWalker? (http://www.thinktankphoto.com/ttp_product_StWlkr.php)

James

[lewdog]

I was just looking at that. That looks like a good possibility. Anything for under $60? A joke, I know, but it'd be nice. I guess you have to pay to play.

[Wilt]

Actually, the Stealth Reporter bags look really cool. Looking at them, however, made me realize that I would like something in the small backpack or sling form factor because I want to be able to walk reasonable distances (like, hiking in the desert this summer) and have it not be bouncing around.

...which is why I specifically mentined the ability to use the Stealth Reporter on a padded belt, which not only stops bouncing but also takes weight off the upper body and moves the weight low.

[Kronie]

You can fit all of that in a lowepro micro trekker. Very small and comfortable long distances. padded belt and shoulder straps.
I can fit
40D
17-55
10-22
70-200F4lis
150 macro
1.4 TC

[tvphotog]

The Tamrac Expedition series is a very well made pack if you want this type of bag. I think it's the best made of all these similar bags, each manufacturer makes a series like this. It has very well padded straps, the best of this type.

The 5X that I have will fit your kit.

Come to think of it, it may be just like your Odyssey.

[Jon]

Domke F2 - you'll find a shoulder bag is more convenient for maneuvering through tight quarters than anything that's more firmly fixed to your body.

[jcothron]

I've looked at some Lowepro stuff and kind of wondered about their durability. I am sort of a backpacker and really like things that are super durable like most backpacking stuff-ballistic nylon, strong zippers, etc. I don't know all of the Lowepro stuff, but the stuff that I've seen has made me wonder how it would stand up to long-term use. Thoughts?

If the durability concern is what is stopping you, don't let it bother you. I have a Lowepro backpack (Nature Trekker) that I've had for 10 years of hiking and bushwacking. It's been dropped, scraped against rocks, rained on... you name it. After all that...it is in like new condition.

I also have a Magnum AW that I've had for a shorter amount of time, but it's just as durable.