outgrowing my fastpak

Have been using a Fastpack 200 for the past year and a half or so. Prior to this I had a Slingback version which I hated and eventually sold.

Anywho, I used to owned smaller lenses which was convenient for the 200 model. Now however I own a 24-70L, a 24-105L, and a 70-200L. If one of these lenses is on the body in the lower compartment I cannot comfortably fit either of the two remaining lens in the lower compartment.

So basically I think I need a larger backback. I know the 350 is bigger but I really don't want the laptop storage section. I also don't really care for the upper storage area in the Fastpack series. I think that even in the 200 it takes away too much from the lower compartment area. However I really do like the convenience of the zipper for the lower compartment being on the side.

Do you have a bag that is similar to the Fastpack? One that can hold two large lenses, body, and flash in the lower compartment and maybe a smaller upper compartment?

Pics are welcome if you have one.

Well I picked up a Pro Runner 300AW today.

I really wanted the 350AW because it was deeper but I don't really care for the padded waist straps and the laptop space.

In fact, I wish the 300AW didn't have waist straps because I don't use them. My Fastpack 200 didn't have them which was just fine. At least on the 300AW they're not padded so they'll interfere less.

My biggest concern now is that my gripped 40D will not fit unless I de-grip it (and as a result leave my battery compartment and grip contact exposed). I won't be able to test the fit until I get home later. Does anyone use the 300AW to carry a gripped body?

If the fit is not good, I'm considering a Tamrac Expedition 4 or 5. Which is the closest in size to the 300AW? Again, the gripped body is my biggest concern.

coeng wrote in post #10256341
Well I picked up a Pro Runner 300AW today.

I really wanted the 350AW because it was deeper but I don't really care for the padded waist straps and the laptop space.

In fact, I wish the 300AW didn't have waist straps because I don't use them. My Fastpack 200 didn't have them which was just fine. At least on the 300AW they're not padded so they'll interfere less.

My biggest concern now is that my gripped 40D will not fit unless I de-grip it (and as a result leave my battery compartment and grip contact exposed). I won't be able to test the fit until I get home later. Does anyone use the 300AW to carry a gripped body?

If the fit is not good, I'm considering a Tamrac Expedition 4 or 5. Which is the closest in size to the 300AW? Again, the gripped body is my biggest concern.

There was no response on this topic from anyone so I'm just following up to myself I guess. The fit with grip that I was concerned about is manageable. A little tight but manageable.

The Fastpack 350 will fit your 40D gripped and the 70-200 L attached along with your other lenses.
The 350 also has the sternum/ chest strap to prevent the two straps from separating. It also distributes the weight better.
Have you considered the Flipside 400AW? Will fit all of your gear nicely.