You wouldn’t go anywhere without your camera. Here are two new backpacks that will protect your SLR: Lowepro’s Flipside and Camera Armor’s Seattle Sling.
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Couldn’t agree more about the Flipside. After extensive research and trying many bags, I own both the 300 and 400 models. The fact that it’s a streamlined bag, yet with plenty of storage (even for very large tele-zooms), and access is convenient and safe is what won me over. I’d used a sling-style bag previously, but found a one-shoulder sling solution wasn’t comfortable enough for me for all-day wear when traveling. The 2-shoulder flipside works like a sling bag, as you rotate it around on your waist, and it opens like a table in front of you. Lens changes have never been easier on the go! Also much more secure in urban environments since access to the main compartment is against your back – no one is going to unzip it without you knowing, even the very clever street urchins.
It’s tough to describe exactly how it works, but Lowepro has an excellent video on their website. You can also look for my more complete review and photo comparison by searching for “BurBunny Flipside” (BurBunny being my “play” name).
Great choices, Chris!
These are great for just you camera equipment, but what if you want a one backpack to do it all? Do you carry the camera backpack plus another carry on with your other stuff? I travel with my laptop, water bottle, a couple snacks, small notebook, some reading material (or maps,etc) plus camera? OK, one backpack won’t do it all but I will take camera w/2 lenses, small accessories, flash, laptop, magazine and moleskin, pens, almonds, cell phone, change pouch and a place to hook my water bottle on the outside. (I am thinking seriously about one of the crumpler bags)
I didn’t want to carry multiple bags either, so I picked up a Tamrac Adventure 9 model…
The camera section is re-configurable, and is large enough to carry an slr, 2-3 lenses, flash, and a few other assessories… the lid has spots for memory cards, batteries, remotes, etc…
The top section is on the small side, but is still useful if you’re not carrying tons of stuff… usually if I can’t fit it in there, I really didn’t need it anyway — or I could put it somewhere else in the bag.
and it has a zippered laptop section — access on the side, but the laptop is next to your back, so you’d feel it move… even a little. Note: this can become quite uncomfortable after lugging it around for 6 hours if not adjusted just right, so spend the time adjusting it before your trip.
They make various sizes. The 9 is roughly the size and shape of a normal bookbag. So if somebody doesn’t recognize the tamrac logo, it doesn’t scream “I’m a camera bag. steal me.”
it usually is fine for a carry on, though I wouldn’t recommend attempting to put it under a seat. I’ve carried it on a couple trips now without a problem.