rolling camera bags

mmmatt

hello!

I am looking for a new rolling bag/case for my gear. I am currently using a naneu pro case that I LOVE, but it is just a shade smaller than I need after a few new purchases. The current bag is 15x11x5 in the main sectioned compartment plus it has a laptop slot that works well to hold one of my brackets and a few other flat-ish items.

I Looked on Naneu pro's website and they no longer make this bag or anything similar. If they had the same thing plus a few inches each way it would be a no-brainer for me but no such luck.

So, I'm curious what others are using. I currently carry the following:

5d w/ 24-70 f2.8L attached
20D w/ Sigma 24-60 f2.8 attached
70-200 f4L
135 f2L
2 580 ex II's
2 brackets (strobo camera flip and strobo pro-T)
batts, chargers, diffusers, and assorted general junk

I focus mostly on weddings but also shoot other events and some on-site portrait stuff.

Any suggestions/experiences would be great. I'm kinda thinking of maybe even a pelican hard case/divider set. Not for "ultimate protection", but just from terms of features and cost.

Thanks in advance!

Matt

Art Scott

I have been looking into something other than my LowePro Trekker Aw Back pack.....I still ahve lots of growth room....but feel it would "look" a tad more "professional" if I arrived at weddings and other events with equipment in somethng other than a back pack.....so I have been eyeing the Pelican styled rolling cases and those would make a journey overseas a breeze for stowing gear with the luggage as it will not all fit into even 2 cary ons.....

After all this hot air above.....have you given any thought to the Pelican style of case??

Ann McRae

Scott Kelby recently wrote about using a pelican rolling case.
It looks pretty nice, but I am not sure it would hold everything the lowepro bag I have does - note his comment about having to lie the camera body flat.

ann

ziggy53

My needs tend to vary by project.

I have settled on a 2-wheeled luggage cart for smaller clusters of bags and a convertible 2-wheel-truck/4-wheel-cart when I bring the whole shebang.

What I have is similar to (not my images):
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/415FDF0vGBL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

http://www.oppictures.com/singleimages/400/SAF4087R_1_1.JPG

I do have a Lightware MF-1420 case that would accept the Lightware MM-1420 MultiMate Cart, but it seems to be a lot of money for a little more convenience.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/194565-REG/Lightware_MM1420_MM1420_MultiMate_Cart.html#features

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=NavBar&A=getItemDetail&Q=&sku=31410&is=REG&si=acc&showAll=1#more_accessories

mmmatt

Thanks guys,
Scott, like you I also feel a backpack doesn't look so good for events. If your read the bottom of my p0ost you will see that the pelican line is exactly what I'm looking at. Did the starbucks give you decaf this morning big guy?

The two that most interest me are the 1510 (cases style with wheels) with the divider set, the 1440 (top load style with wheels) with the divider set, and they make a soft side that doesn' show up anywhere except b&h (not even on pelican's site). The soft side is the pcs283 http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518192-REG/Pelican_PCS283G_PCS283_Large_Wheeled_Camera_Computer.html and reading reviews, people love it except they put a handle on the bottom so it won't sit upright! DUH! One guy cut it off and now he loves his bag!

I like the added protection of the hard bags and they are actually a bit cheaper so I may give one a shot. I am shooting weddings for the next 3 weekends, so I'm going to see how it goes with my current roller and a shoulder bag for the backup and shoulder bag for the lappy. At least for the next one. I only bring the lappy though if I am going to put together a little slideshow for the reception and I won't be doing that for the next two.

I'm all good with the lappy being in it's own bag... I have one of those giant dell's with the 17" screen and there are very few camer/lappy cases that will fit it.

thanks for the input folks! keep it comming

davemj98

Good Stuff
These are very sturdy and securable. I was able to compare a bunch of them at Roberts, and this is by far the most 'Pro' looking and fitting of them all, able to handle a large SLR /w grip and 80 200 2.8 attached. Unfortunately, B&H does not carry them.
Dave
http://www.thinktankphoto.com/

mmmatt

davemj98 wrote:

These are very sturdy and securable. I was able to compare a bunch of them at Roberts, and this is by far the most 'Pro' looking and fitting of them all, able to handle a large SLR /w grip and 80 200 2.8 attached. Unfortunately, B&H does not carry them.
Dave
http://www.thinktankphoto.com/

The V2.0 is a great size for me with room to grow, but that is a lot of cash to spend. Those are really costy... like $370 and that is going to be out of my range I think. Ideally I would like to be under $200. I really like the doublewide skin bag though. Having a place to keep my 70-200 and my 135 w/hood on my side will be a godsend. I actually wear cargo pants a lot just so I have big pockets for lenses without a bag. I actually have one of those and the belt on the way.

Matt

davemj98

Holster
I picked up this one, saving for the big roller.:D
http://www.thinktankphoto.com/feature_cat_slide_pop.php?ftr=DgtlHlstr_DH50_1
Dave

dlibrach

I use a Lowepro Rolling Computreker AW Plus with a very similar setup for all my corporate/wedding work. Fits all of my gear and then some. It does have a rather comfortable backpack setup built in too which is great if you are in an environment where wheels just won't cut (i.e. most outdoor wedding locations) and you need to carry it. Tucks out of sight when not needed. The only problem that I have with it is that it can sometimes suffer from "speed wobbling" if you walk too fast while rolling it.

Cambags is a great resource where users post their bags with the gear in it for almost all the ones currently on the market. Gives you a good idea of what will fit.

Cheers,
D

jww

I've never had enough room!! So I have finally come into using a Pelican 1600 and 1550. I lash them to a foldup two wheeler with some bungie cords. Works pretty well as I can also lash a tarp, folding chair, monopod, and a cooler to the mess as I mostly do outdoor events. I have a lightweight backpack for personal stuff like snacks, towel (don't forget your towel!), suntan lotion, etc that I don't want near my gear.

Scott_Quier

I've used the Pelican 1510 with divider set for a couple of years now. It's airline friendly and I've been able to carry enough gear in it to shoot a full wedding/reception:

• Canon 30D x 2
• Canon 580EX x 2 (and a pair of off-camera hotshoe cords)
• Sekonic L-358 light meter
• Newton Di100FR2 bracket x 2
• EF 70-200 f/2.8L IS
• EF-S 10-22
• EF-S 17-55
• EF 100 f/2.8
• SoHo Hyperdrive
• Lots of AA batteries and CF cards
• Bunch of other stuff

It's been one of the best photo oriented purchases I've made. Couldn't be happier unless they could figure out a way to build a case that, with all the above in it, it would weigh less. The case, fully loaded comes in at about 40 lbs (approx 18kg).

mmmatt

Scott_Quier wrote:

I've used the Pelican 1510 with divider set for a couple of years now. It's airline friendly and I've been able to carry enough gear in it to shoot a full wedding/reception:

• Canon 30D x 2
• Canon 580EX x 2 (and a pair of off-camera hotshoe cords)
• Sekonic L-358 light meter
• Newton Di100FR2 bracket x 2
• EF 70-200 f/2.8L IS
• EF-S 10-22
• EF-S 17-55
• EF 100 f/2.8
• SoHo Hyperdrive
• Lots of AA batteries and CF cards
• Bunch of other stuff

It's been one of the best photo oriented purchases I've made. Couldn't be happier unless they could figure out a way to build a case that, with all the above in it, it would weigh less. The case, fully loaded comes in at about 40 lbs (approx 18kg).

Well, I liked the idea of the top load 2 level deallie so I bought a pelican 1440 w/dividers. It may still go back to adorama though... its a tight fit with all my gear. I may go with the 1510 or maybe the next one up. The biggest problem is the brackets. They take up a lot of space! Nice case though! Nothing is built like a pelican. I thinnk I could chuck it off my balcony and all would be good! I'll try it right now and report back.:nah

Matt

Pindy

I have the Tenba Small Roadie, which I love. It's a half-size roller with a laptop compartment and fits overhead compartments in aircraft. Great, great, great case. They also make a large roadie, which looks amazing. I got mine for about $185.00

http://www.tenba.com/pc-948-19-roadie-rolling-photo-case-small.aspx

mmmatt

Pindy wrote:

I have the Tenba Small Roadie, which I love. It's a half-size roller with a laptop compartment and fits overhead compartments in aircraft. Great, great, great case. They also make a large roadie, which looks amazing. I got mine for about $185.00

http://www.tenba.com/pc-948-19-roadie-rolling-photo-case-small.aspx

Those do look nice. The 1/2 size looks nearly identical to my naneu pro bag.

I used the 1440 today and I like it a lot. After I deceided to store the bodies without lenses it made a lot more space. I have always been a proponent of keeping the go-to lens on the body for dust reasons, but whatcha gonna do. This is a great case and I would recomend it. Build quality is wonderful! and Scott... I'm weighing in at 42lbs now and I plan on adding a fisheye and upgrading my 70-200 f4L to the 2.8 IS. I'm sure I'll hit about 45 lbs. That isn't so bad though! I'm not backpacking with it!!!

ya know... we should have a thread of "gear case pics" to see how we all organize our gear. I like that kind of stuff to get ideas. Maybe I'll snap a pic and start one later.


Matt

urbanaries

I have a very similar gear set/needs as you and I bought a pelican 1610 a few months ago and I am kicking myself for not going that route sooner. There are smaller options (like Scott's airline friendly version), sure but I can fit every bit of gear and accessories with room to grow. It's heavy, and not suited for wearing/carrying WHILE shooting (obviously) but it's so rugged and nice to have everything in one spot. I love that I can put two reflectors in there as well!

Definitely recommend the velcro padded liners over foam ones, as well. They're top notch.

Snowgirl

Resurrected for a reason
Hi. I searched for rolling cases and found this thread. I have various cases and back packs and luggage carts but here's my problem.

I shoot a lot of outdoor events where I travel over rough ground. The wheels on rolling cases are designed for indoor floor surfaces - not uneven outdoor places. I lug a LOT of stuff plus a tripod and a monopod and sometimes a laptop, two bodies, multiple lenses, flash gear - and I'd like to add some umbrellas / reflectors.

Most of the time I'm alone without a sherpa. Any suggestions? I'm stumped and spending a lot of time lurking around hardware, hunting supply and camping stores. Help please?

ziggy53

Snowgirl wrote: »

Hi. I searched for rolling cases and found this thread. I have various cases and back packs and luggage carts but here's my problem.

I shoot a lot of outdoor events where I travel over rough ground. The wheels on rolling cases are designed for indoor floor surfaces - not uneven outdoor places. I lug a LOT of stuff plus a tripod and a monopod and sometimes a laptop, two bodies, multiple lenses, flash gear - and I'd like to add some umbrellas / reflectors.

Most of the time I'm alone without a sherpa. Any suggestions? I'm stumped and spending a lot of time lurking around hardware, hunting supply and camping stores. Help please?

I use a 2-wheel hand-truck and, sometimes, one that converts to a 4-wheel dolly truck. A 2-wheel version that has a large enough handle to keep everything level when you lay it down would work pretty well. The idea is that the wheels need to be large and pneumatic for handling rough ground. Add a plywood platform if you wish. Use bungees to tie everything together. The following link is similar to what I use currently:

http://www.handtrucksrus.com/CrashDetail.aspx?id=245&cx=ck

A garden cart can also work but I would find it more difficult to transport.

sdaztec25

Huge Pelican Sale Today...... http://pelican.com/media/news/company/WAREHOUSE%20SALE.pdf

Snowgirl

ziggy53 wrote: »

I use a 2-wheel hand-truck and, sometimes, one that converts to a 4-wheel dolly truck. A 2-wheel version that has a large enough handle to keep everything level when you lay it down would work pretty well. The idea is that the wheels need to be large and pneumatic for handling rough ground. Add a plywood platform if you wish. Use bungees to tie everything together. The following link is similar to what I use currently:

http://www.handtrucksrus.com/CrashDetail.aspx?id=245&cx=ck

A garden cart can also work but I would find it more difficult to transport.

Thanks. You're right about the need for large pneumatic tires. I just got home from an event where I took the minimum equipment I could get away with - and definitely need a Robaxacet or three. I like the idea of a garden cart too if I could find one with the big wheels. Most I've seen assume you're in a civilized environment.

Snowgirl

sdaztec25 wrote: »

Huge Pelican Sale Today...... http://pelican.com/media/news/company/WAREHOUSE%20SALE.pdf

Sadly I'm several thousands of miles away :cry

rwells

ThinkTank Airport International v2
I know the OP already settled on a roller, but since many will be interested in the options out there, I'll throw in the ThinkTank Airport International v2

I was going to opt for the larger Airport Security roller, but I wanted be be 100% confident that I won't have any issues with International carry-on rules.

Here is a list of gear that I currently have in mine. Also, my Urban Disguise 60 has a slot on the back specifically to be able to slip over the extended handle of the roller. It then conveniently and securely sits on top of the roller. The roller also has two (2) security cables and locks.




Airport International v2


1DMkIII
5DMkII w/grip & Camdapter strap w/ArcaSwiss baseplate
5D w/grip & Camdapter strap w/ArcaSwiss baseplate
7D w/grip & Camdapter strap w/ArcaSwiss baseplate
17-40L f/4 w/hood
35L f/1.4 w/hood
24-105L f/4 w/hood
85 f/1.8
135L f/2 w/hood
70-200L f/2.8 IS w/hood
TC 1.4
580EX
580EXII (2)
STE-2
PW TT5 (3)
PW AC5 soft shields (2)
Honl Speed Straps (2)
Honl filter packs (2)
Pixel Pocket Rocket (holds 10 CF cards)
RS80N-3 remote release
Charger for 5DMkII
Charger for 5D
77mm Circular Polarizer
77mm ExpoDisk
Lens cleaning pen
Sharpie with gaffers tape rolled around it
Business cards w/case
Full rain cover for bag
Black Rapid strap
Nano light stands (2)
Wescott 43” collapsible umbrella (2)
Bungee cords – small (3)
Lens cleaning fluid and micro-cloth
Sensor cleaning kit including LED magnifier
Earplugs

17” laptop can be carried in front stretch pocket (I doubt that I will)

Tripod can be carried on the side in place of my lightstands and umbrellas

Dan7312

These will roll over just about anything. http://www.cartsvermont.com/product.php?productid=16136&cat=0&page=1

Snowgirl wrote: »

Hi. I searched for rolling cases and found this thread. I have various cases and back packs and luggage carts but here's my problem.

I shoot a lot of outdoor events where I travel over rough ground. The wheels on rolling cases are designed for indoor floor surfaces - not uneven outdoor places. I lug a LOT of stuff plus a tripod and a monopod and sometimes a laptop, two bodies, multiple lenses, flash gear - and I'd like to add some umbrellas / reflectors.

Most of the time I'm alone without a sherpa. Any suggestions? I'm stumped and spending a lot of time lurking around hardware, hunting supply and camping stores. Help please?

Snowgirl

Dan7312 wrote: »

These will roll over just about anything. http://www.cartsvermont.com/product.php?productid=16136&cat=0&page=1

Thanks. That would be excellent. Wonder if it would fit in the back of my Vibe? It would make a great rolling tool kit.:D

Snowgirl

rwells wrote: »

I know the OP already settled on a roller, but since many will be interested in the options out there, I'll throw in the ThinkTank Airport International v2

I was going to opt for the larger Airport Security roller, but I wanted be be 100% confident that I won't have any issues with International carry-on rules.

Here is a list of gear that I currently have in mine. Also, my Urban Disguise 60 has a slot on the back specifically to be able to slip over the extended handle of the roller. It then conveniently and securely sits on top of the roller. The roller also has two (2) security cables and locks.

Airport International v2 Contents

<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p>
1. 5DMkII w/grip & Camdapter strap w/ArcaSwiss baseplate
2. 5D w/grip & Camdapter strap w/ArcaSwiss baseplate
3. 17-40L f/4 w/hood
4. 35L f/1.4 w/hood
5. 24-105L f/4 w/hood
6. 85 f/1.8
7. 135L f/2 w/hood
8. 70-200L f/2.8 IS w/hood
9. TC 1.4
10. 580EXII (2)
11. STE-2
12. PW TT5 (3)
13. PW AC5 soft shields (2)
14. Honl Speed Straps (2)
15. Honl filter packs (2)
16. Pixel Pocket Rocket (holds 10 CF cards)
17. RS80N-3 remote release
18. Charger for 5DMkII
19. Charger for 5D
20. 77mm Circular Polarizer
21. 77mm ExpoDisk
22. Hot shoe spirit level
23. AA batteries (20)
24. Lens cleaning pen
25. Sharpie with gaffers tape rolled around it
26. Business cards w/case
27. Full rain cover for bag
28. Black Rapid strap
29. Nano light stands (2)
30. Wescott 43” collapsible umbrella (2)
31. Bungee cords – small (3)
32. Lens cleaning fluid and micro-cloth
33. Sensor cleaning kit including LED magnifier
34. Earplugs

* 17” laptop can be carried in front stretch pocket (I doubt that I will)

** Tripod can be carried on the side in place of my lightstands and umbrellas

Impressive list. I love Think Tank products and have the Airport Antidote backpack. The problem for me is needing bigger wheels for uneven ground (think outdoor horse shows) and rolling over any obstacle plus my back is knackered with arthritis so I can't carry a full loaded backpack. :cry Otherwise this would be a great bag.

Art Scott

Snowgirl wrote: »

Thanks. You're right about the need for large pneumatic tires. I just got home from an event where I took the minimum equipment I could get away with - and definitely need a Robaxacet or three. I like the idea of a garden cart too if I could find one with the big wheels. Most I've seen assume you're in a civilized environment.

Check out Harbor Freight Tools online......

http://www.harborfreight.com/lawn-garden/wheeled-carriers/steel-mesh-deck-wagon-38137.html

Snowgirl

Art Scott wrote: »

Check out Harbor Freight Tools online......

http://www.harborfreight.com/lawn-garden/wheeled-carriers/steel-mesh-deck-wagon-38137.html

Thanks Art. That's the ticket - and cheap, too

Dan7312

Here is a garden cart that will fold up and fit in any trunk.

http://www.tipkemfg.com/foldit/index.html

We were in Bar Harbor this weekend and there was an artist sale on the green. I hadn't realized graphic artists have to lug around even more stuff than 'togs. One of them had this cart and said it was the greatest thing since slide bread, I believe her. Even took the time to show me how it folded up for storage in the trunk of her car... less than a minute.

Snowgirl wrote: »

Thanks. You're right about the need for large pneumatic tires. I just got home from an event where I took the minimum equipment I could get away with - and definitely need a Robaxacet or three. I like the idea of a garden cart too if I could find one with the big wheels. Most I've seen assume you're in a civilized environment.

Snowgirl

Dan7312 wrote: »

Here is a garden cart that will fold up and fit in any trunk.

http://www.tipkemfg.com/foldit/index.html

We were in Bar Harbor this weekend and there was an artist sale on the green. I hadn't realized graphic artists have to lug around even more stuff than 'togs. One of them had this cart and said it was the greatest thing since slide bread, I believe her. Even took the time to show me how it folded up for storage in the trunk of her car... less than a minute.

Excellent idea. Looking at one this summer. Thanks.

Snowgirl

So, for flying I decided on the Thinktank Airport Airstream. It is their smallest rolling bag but the interior is about the same capacity as my Thinktank Airort Antidote, so I'm sure this will work for me for most trips.

Now, for attending events, I'm seriously looking at the folding garden cart to save wear and tear on the shoulders and back.

ziggy53

Snowgirl wrote: »

... Now, for attending events, I'm seriously looking at the folding garden cart to save wear and tear on the shoulders and back.

A cart or 4-wheel dolly is a very good idea to keep your equipment off the ground at outside events.

Skorri

I love my Pelican !