XTi & 2 lenses in a regular backpack ?

What is the best way to store an XTi with 2 lenses (Tamron 17-50 and Canon 55-250 IS) in a "regular" backpack ?

I do have a nice Canon bag where I store all of my gear but taking it with me on vacations or a day in the park is unrealistic, as I will have 2 energetic kids to chase around and taking pictures is secondary to this task. I also need to carry 2 water bottles, several jackets or sweaters, some snacks, a couple of small stuffed animals, a couple of baseball caps, sunblock, sunglasses, wipes, napkins... you got the dgrift by now .

I found that the easiest way to carry all of it + the camera is in the regular backpack that has three large zipped compartments - I can put delicate gear in one and use the other two for "stuff". It fits OK and has room to spare, believe or not.

However I am worried about bumping / dropping it.

So, what is the best way to protect the lenses while still being able to pull them quickly ? I was thinking of using some makeshift padding e.g. foam or bubble wrap inside the compartment, but there's got to be a better way.

Thanks !

There's that but can you remove the padding from the 200? I remove the padding from my Crumpler for my DIY bag and use it.

Thanks for a speedy reply.

I still use 200DG. It's perfect for storing all gear safely in house and taking it with me when I know I may need it. Just not for outings with family. So I don't want to cannibalize it.

They don't just velcro in? Idk, never owned one.

_aravena wrote in post #5876007
They don't just velcro in? Idk, never owned one.

They do, what I'm trying to say is, I still use 200DG so I need the dividers in it.

I guess the easiest way would be to get some thick bubble wrap & fit it inside the backpack. That or thick foam pads, or just cut up an old laptop bag. I was thinking of these zip-top lens pouches, but I can just picture myself dropping a lens attempting to hold a backpack, camera, two lenses and the pouch while trying to unzip the pouch and swap lenses. I'm not good at joggling fragile things !

I use my 7MDH but I switch back and worth. Another idea is yard sales. You'd be surprise how much camera stuff is for sale there. Perhaps an old video or camera and bam, new dividers. Check my DIY reviews and you'll see what I mean.

Why do you think it's all velcro?