Standard Backpack vs Fastpack 250

Just got back from Alaska and had shoulder bag that I quickly abandoned fro my Gregory backback. It's my all around travel pack with good padding and laptop sleeve. I love the bag and it's very comfortable and padded. For the trip I dumped everything either into laptop sleeve or larger center pocket and went on. worked great. I was a little worried with a few times I had to jog a bit but everything held up well.

Going to colorado this next month and considering doing the same thing vs going with a fastpack 250.

I really like having the gregory for the added space for dayhike items but wondering if I should get the "camera specific" bag to better protect the gear. Not interested in the mammoth 350.

Here is what I have...

Xti with 17-50, 28-135 and 70-300 with assorted CPLs and UV filters, 2 crads, 3 batteries.

Is this really a matter of personal preference or do I NEED the camera bag?

Thanks

Shawn

I have the fastpack 250 (which I am actually selling because it is not large enough).

I am so glad I had it because I was on a trip in Chicago and ended up slipping in a puddle of water which happened to have dirt in it that I could not see. I ended up falling in an awkward angle and my entire left side ended up hitting the ground as well as my backpack.

The fastpack is well padded in the camera compartment and I had no damage to my gear at all.

If you're interested in a Fastpack 250, let me know. I have one for cheap in the selling forum here at POTN.

I didnt really like the Fastpack series. I ended up liking the Flipside 300 a lot more and I am pretty sure it would hold your gear with no issues.