Looking for a camera bag that isnt a camera bag

I currently have a Billingham Hadley Pro that i use for storing my 6D, 35mm f/2 IS, flash, BR strap, and various minutae like memory cards and spare batteries.

i also use the Billingham to carry my camera locally (i.e. trip to zoo). however, i dont find it to be a very practical travel bag, especially for overseas trips - other than my kit, i cant fit much else in there. this leads me to use a regular incase backpack, and roll the camera up in a tshirt.

im considering selling the Billingham, and storing the camera in a box in a drawer. however, what i am really looking for is a recommendation for a backpack that isnt just a dedicated camera backpack. as mentioned, i currently have an Incase, its an older Slim backpack. I love bringing it on vacation with me, as it allows me to carry a bunch of stuff not just on the plane, but also when im out and about (had it with me on my trip to spain just now) and it allowed me to carry my 6D + sling (when not using), a large bottle of water, and allow me to shove a sweater in there and the like.

can folks recommend a backpack that will allow me to do this - something that has a small camera compartment, and yet still allows for space to carry other things?

or am i better off purchasing a camera insert such as this one: https://www.incase.com …camera/camera-insert-lite and just continuing to use my current backpack

Lowepro's Fastpack series has a camera section and the rest is free storage. Not expensive.

Very best,

thanks. i should've added that i also have the older LowePro Versapack 200, which is similar to fastpack. i still find the space limiting - it has enough room for small things for a day or a short trip, but still not exactly what i was looking for.

i wound up ordering a padded insert, which should fit my incase backpack very well, and still allow me to have space when i need it: https://www.amazon.com …age_o00_s00?ie=​UTF8&psc=1

Maxpedition makes gnarly bags and packs. definitely don't look like camera bags. Mine was intended to carry 2 Glocks and clips
It is a shoulder bag I use as an everyday carry bag. I've looked at their packs briefly, but I haven't bought due to cost

Have you looked at Tom Bihn bags? great variety

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack sounds like exactly what you need. https://www.peakdesign​.com …t/bags/everyday​-backpack/

A Timbuk2 messenger bag (medium) with Snoop insert is a great combination. It is inconspicuous and holds two 1 Series bodies with short lenses plus small bits.

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i had a similar issue as i always have to carry my work laptop and had a bunch of laptop bags that i use daily as well as other on the weekends or even when traveling so i was looking for something that could be more of an insert. i bought a highly recommended one of amazon that was twice the size of most my backpacks then i did some more research and came across TENBA bags. this was perfect to fit my 70d, kit lens, charger and sd cards all in a insert that are not packed in but also doesnt have the gear flopping around a big insert. I have the BYOB 9 and it fit my needs perfectly . They have tons of different sizes to accommodate your needs. a bunch of reviews and videos too on youtube. i highly recommend it.

https://www.tenba.com/​collections/tools.aspx

While I don't agree that f-stop is all that great for long adventure hikes, you can't beat them for what you want to do. Loka with small or medium ICU seems perfect. Not the cheapest alternative, but you own a Billingham, so...

ekinnyc wrote in post #18487724
thanks. i should've added that i also have the older LowePro Versapack 200, which is similar to fastpack. i still find the space limiting - it has enough room for small things for a day or a short trip, but still not exactly what i was looking for.

i wound up ordering a padded insert, which should fit my incase backpack very well, and still allow me to have space when i need it: https://www.amazon.com …age_o00_s00?ie=​UTF8&psc=1

Go to the LowePro website and use their "bag builder". See https://www.lowepro.co​m/bagfinder. It will give you a good idea of what you want.

Jarvis Creative Studios wrote in post #18565618
The Peak Design Everyday Backpack sounds like exactly what you need. https://www.peakdesign​.com …t/bags/everyday​-backpack/

I second this one, I carry one to and from the office everyday. I have the 30L, and my Fuji system fits fine along with room for planner, laptop, etc.

If that isn't enough room I would look at F-Stop bags, although I consider them more of a "photography" bag they do have options that allow you extra storage room. Peak Design is where I would look first though I'm loving mine so far.

Probably too late but the B&H Deal of the Day is a Sachtler Dr. Bag - 3 at $100 off the normal price so $99 net. See
https://www.bhphotovid​eo.com …htler_sc003_dr_​bag_3.html