What type of bag works best for a week of travel and light hiking with a small camera kit?
Asked 12/28/2011
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I’m taking a one-week trip to Austria and the Alps and want to carry a small DSLR kit: a Canon Rebel T2i, a prime lens, a telephoto lens, a flash, filters, and a laptop, along with normal travel clothes. I’ll be going through airports and expect to do some hiking, but I won’t be carrying a tripod.
I’m not looking for a specific model so much as advice on the best type of bag or carrying setup. For a trip like this, is it better to use a dedicated camera backpack, a hiking backpack with a smaller camera insert or top-loader, or a sling bag? I’d like something practical for airports, comfortable for hiking, and reasonably discreet.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
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From what I understand you need a backpack for hiking, even if there was no photography involved. In that case, I recommend you get a hiking backpack that you are comfortable with and avoid trying to fit the photo gear in it. If you do, you will only have shots of the summit :) - At least it says so in Remote Exposure.
Considering you have barely any photo equipment, you should consider a top-load or modular carrying system. They are models from Lowepro and Thinktank which attach the the harness or belt of hiking backpacks. This will give you access to gear while hiking and let you take photo opportunities in a greater number of locations. With one of the bigger Lowepro TLZ you can fit all of your equipment in it and the AW model has a built-in rain cover to protect it too.
Originally by user1620. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1620
14y ago
0
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For your kit size, the most practical approach is usually a comfortable hiking/travel backpack for your main load, plus a small camera carry solution rather than a large dedicated camera pack.
A top-loader or modular pouch attached to a hiking pack harness or belt is a strong option: it keeps the camera accessible while walking, protects it, and lets the main pack handle clothes and laptop. If rain is a concern, look for a cover or weather protection.
A sling bag can also work for a small setup and has the advantage of looking less like a camera bag, which can be useful in airports and stations. It may be fine for lighter or shorter hikes, but it’s generally less comfortable than a proper hiking pack for longer days.
A dedicated camera backpack can work, especially if you want everything in one place, but for a small kit it may be bulkier than necessary and less versatile for mixed travel.
In short: prioritize comfort and fit in the main backpack, keep the camera gear in a compact accessible bag or insert, and choose something discreet that doesn’t obviously advertise expensive gear.
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