Backpack w/ good tripod support recommendation

PilotBrad

I have a tripod that I would consider on the long side and a bit heavy, and I am looking for a good photo backpack that will allow me to carry the tripod on day hikes in the mountains around my home.

I need a backpack that is large enough to carry 1 body, 3-4 lenses, and a variety of accessories (filters, cables, etc.). For the tripod I would prefer it to carry the tripod vertically, but centered and low on the backpack for good weight distribution.

So far I've found a few Lowepro and Tamrac backpacks that mount the tripod centered on the backpack, but does anybody have any other suggestions or recommendations?

Thanks!

catspaw

Look into Crumpler bags too! I can't recommend any off the top of my head, but their website will give you all the specs.

cab.in.boston

I know you said you'd already seen Tamrac backpacks, but I just wanted to put in a plug for this one. I have that and it easily carries my D90, Tamron 17-50 2.8, Nikon 55-200 VR, 50 1.8 and 35 1.8 primes, plus SB-600 flash. The pouches hold spare batteries, filters, cords/cables, etc. I have my manual and Field Guide in the outer pocket. Then the tripod straps on the back quite securely and with their system of accessories, you can connect lots of stuff to the pack. I've done day trips to Boston wearing the backpack, and it's comfortable.

Anyway, can't suggest any other brands like you asked, I just wanted to add a favorable recommendation for that one. I do find that sometimes I would prefer to have a sling-type bag, because while the backpack holds a bunch of stuff, it's not exactly convenient to get into when you're on the move. You have to be able to take it off and set it down to get into it, while a sling would let you more easily change lenses or get to your spare batteries. I'll probably add another bag for trips where I don't want to take everything... of course with a sling you wouldn't be able to take your tripod, and that defeats the purpose of your initial post. Just something to think about...

PilotBrad

Thank you both for your input.

Regarding Crumpler... I haven't been able to locate a bag with Tripod support, perhaps I am missing something.

As far as Tamrac goes... I like their bags. The only problem I can see with them is that their smaller bags are very short and wide, and when you put my long and heavy tripod into the pouch on the back, it sticks way up above the top of the bag and throws the center of gravity off a bit. I suppose I could put the ballhead in the pouch and let the lighter legs stick up. Hmmm... I may have to try that out at the camera store.

Thanks again!

Scott_Quier

Crumpler has at least three bags that might suit you:

• Whickey and Cox
• Karachi
• Keystone

Check out my short review of the Crumpler Karachi backpack. It might be a bit big for you needs (based on your stated requirements), but it will give you some idea going forward.

cab.in.boston

PilotBrad wrote:

As far as Tamrac goes... I like their bags. The only problem I can see with them is that their smaller bags are very short and wide, and when you put my long and heavy tripod into the pouch on the back, it sticks way up above the top of the bag and throws the center of gravity off a bit. I suppose I could put the ballhead in the pouch and let the lighter legs stick up. Hmmm... I may have to try that out at the camera store.

Thanks again!

It depends on how you strap the tripod to the bag. I can secure the top of the tripod near the top of the bag, so the CoG is then lowered. Obviously the tripod will then hang down below the bottom of the bag, but when you're hiking with it, it's not a problem. Certainly, if you have a chance to play around with the bags at a store, go for it. Good luck with your search!

wvrocks

I like my Mountainsmith Traverse AT pretty well. My tripod isn't especially long though so it might not work for you. The bottom pouch for the tripod drops below the bottom of the pack a bit, maybe 4-5".

The Odyssey is a bit bigger than mine but has the same set up.

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/,91620_Mountainsmith-Odyssey-Camera-Pack.html

Wicked_Dark

I've had a LowePro Rover AW II for years and can't say enough good things about it. It's been with me everywhere - on planes & trains, in cars and boats. It's rugged, easy to adjust and comfortable. It holds a decent amount of gear in the lower photo space which is adjustable to configure to your needs. The upper portion is great for extra day-hike stuff like snacks, tarps, gps, notebook etc. That same space is great as a carry-on to hold books, maps, an iPod etc. There are also thoughtful pockets inside and out and the tripod pocket with webbing will take just about any tripod you want to lug up the hill.



That isn't a picture of mine, but illustrates how the tripod goes on. I've dragged my giant Bogen in it as well as my tiny Slik (the pocket inverts for small tripods and I've used it like that with a Camelback wedged under the webbing). Best of all it's a real hiker's backpack and very comfortable for all day use. Every time I use it I am happy all over again at my choice.

Happy hunting!

PilotBrad

Hey, you guys are supposed to be making this easier on me, not harder!

Thanks for all the great suggestions! I can see how I'll soon have a collection of bags in my closet to choose from.

Nikonic1

Depending on how serious of a bag you're considering, the Naneu Adventure K5 is so nice. It is definitely a serious backpacking photo gear bag but it's definitely a sweet, seriously purpose built camera pack.

It might be bigger and more than you're after for a day-hiker though.

http://www.naneubags.com/products.mdv?p=a-k5

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/614814-REG/Naneu_Pro_K5_Adventure_K5_Photo_Hiking.html


Not my photos:

hnjngo

I'm looking into getting a tenba shootout backpack.

http://www.vistek.ca/store/ProPhotoBagsCases/231926/tenba-shootout-backpack-medium-silverblack.aspx