Looking for that perfect backpack

[Gregg Bell]

I am doing a double major at University again, and the backpack i have now is buggered so to speak. the straps have gone and its no longer ergonomic, yet it fits everything i need.

I have gone wandering, and gallivanting across the internet to find the ideal back which would be able to do the following:-


Able to store a rangefinder with a pancake lens(135.5(W) x 81(H) x 63.5(D) mm)
Bonus if it could store a Nikon D200 + 24-70mm lens
Archos 5, or even an Applie iPod, I might consider getting one if it deisgned a compartment just for Apple media players.
3-4x books being around 2-5inch thick.
2x A4 notepads
Lunch box[parameters: 260(W) 260(H) x 105(D) mm]
Coffee flask
space for laptop. (I have a netbook i take with me though.)


I have checked out crumpler, and don't like their bags, they aren't ergonomically for what I need, I have become very wary of ergonomics, since I'm already having spine issues at 20 years. I have a Primus AW which is very comfortable, but is only okay for camera gear,so i might sell that off soon as its too bulky for my liking. I am considering selling it, and probably just getting the minimus instead for what I would use it for.

If you guys have any ideas, or what your children use for college or school, or if you have something, or any suggestion, please let me know.

thanks for viewing.

[pgbphotographytas]

I think you are going to struggle to find a decent bag that will fit all that, what bag do you have at the moment as that will help me get an idea of what size you need.

Paul

[Loz]

I am sorry you can't get the comfort from a crumpler. I have one that handles most but not all of your gear and I have seen their range with designs to do the job. I am not familiar with other brands but would be surprised if a local camera specialist could not provide something for your needs.

[fats]

I have been looking at the Dakine Sequence, perhaps that is along the right lines. I still dont think its going to be big enough though. I think the Dakine Reload is a bit bigger.

If the primus is too bulky though I think you might be out of luck. Anything that will fit all that you have stated will certainly be bigger than the primus.

[Gregg Bell]

I have been looking at the Dakine Sequence, perhaps that is along the right lines. I still dont think its going to be big enough though. I think the Dakine Reload is a bit bigger.

If the primus is too bulky though I think you might be out of luck. Anything that will fit all that you have stated will certainly be bigger than the primus.

For a camera bag solely, it is bulky. If it had more storage, and well thought out, then I would change my mind.

[pgbphotographytas]

What abut a Lowepro flipside 400?

[mikec]

Gregg have a look at these two manufacturers, they aren't the run of the mill guys.

http://www.clikelite.com/

http://fstopgear.com/

They are aimed mainly at outdoor adventure types but their backpacks are made to carry a camera plus a lot of other stuff so they might have a solution for you.

I have an fstop wasit / shoulder bag and its brilliant! Very good service from them too.

[mikec]

Gregg just another thought, how about buying a back pack that suits most of your needs but lacks the camera part and just buy a camera insert for the bag? Might work well enough if you don't need quick access to your gear.

I know crumpler (http://www.crumpler.com.au/Lite/English/Products/Bucket-Western-Lawn-BU02A.html) do these and many other brands too.

[Gregg Bell]

Thanks guys,

I tried a fastpack 350 and to my avail it could fit everything but the notepads, so I have put it in the grey area.

Crumpler customary barge is something worth considering but at $405 its a lot of dough to throw for something that manages to just meet citerias. I am beggining to think 2 bags with one within the other or connected might be more ideal. I know the national geographic are quite giving in their backpacks and could carry a smaller bag behind it, if need be for space, so I am looking into that option too.

[Gregg Bell]

Okay I went to Quality Camera Sales the other day (AP Sponsor), and found two very viable options, the lowepro commercial, and the Lowepro Magnum 400aw. Both would work to what I need them for. the Magnum swallowed up all my gear, and stuff, however it remained very heavy, so i guess i will have to watch what i put in it, and be very careful with the weight i put on my shoulder.

The commercial is more appealing because of the waist strap, and it is slimmer and longer, which I think when I am on the move, or running which can be the case quite often, it will be more mobile, however the design does not cater very well for my purpose, and it can fit most of the items, though it is a bit of a squeeze.

So I suppose the magnum is the best option, though its not very ergonomic, considering my back is already out of line, and not in a very good way. Either way bth are cheaper options then the crumpler. anyone own these bags, or willing to play devils advocate, is very much appreciated.

Thanks.