Backpack advice please

[cas]

Hi,
I am looking for a backpack for my photo gear. I need space for a 35mm SLR 3 lenses, 1 flash gun, several batteries, a few films, a Cokin filter set and a Manfrotto 055 pro tripod with a 322 rc head on. I looked at the Lowepro Mini Trekker AW and it seems pretty matching my needs, but I don't know, if my tripod will fit in the back.
Phone a friend? :telephone
Thank you

[lostmysnorkel]

I use the Mini-Trekker and love it to bits.

The only thing you will find annoying is that the tripod probably won't fit unless it is a 'mini' model for travelling. There are no loops or clips to clip it to the outside either.

Manfrottos usually have a convenient clip to attach a shoulder strap somewhere so when travelling I usually:

a) Carry my Lowepro on my back with all camera gear in.
b) Pack the tripod in my cargo bag.

Some good deals on Lowepros on eBay at the moment.

[tonymidd]

Look at the extensive Tamrac range, well made(IMHO better than Lowepro). I use a TamracCyberpack8 for the D200 plus 15-30 and 70-200 EX Sigmas, 35-70, 50, and 55 Nikkors, Nikon bellows, Metz 340 and a stobeframe with a Manfrotto 055/115 and a 681 monpod on the out side. Oh yes there's an Acer Travelmate laptop in the back. There are lots of cards, filters, cables etc in the lid pockets. With all that gear it's heavy but perfectly carriable for short distances without any strain. Basically I use it to keep all the Nikon stuff together, less chance of me forgetting something on a shoot, and it protects it all in the car boot. For walking etc I use a Tamrac Velocity 9 Pro to take the body and say the two Sigmas.
Details here http://www.speedgraphic.co.uk just type in Tamrac in the search panel. There's also details of Lowepro and others.
The only disadvantage I can see is there's a lot of fairly expensive gear all in one easily removable place.

[Tim]

Hi Cas.. I'm using a Lowepro Nature Trekker AWII and it's perfect.. I carry a 5D, 4 lenses, flash-gun, batteries, chargers and all the other bits n bobs and the tripod is securely strapped to the outside.. It's really well padded and adjustable for long hikes... Worth checking out

[cas]

Hello,
thank you for your answers so far. I came across the tamrac expedition 5 as well and found them both very nice, but I can't decide...any practice experience with the tamrac?
Thank you

[tonymidd]

Hello,
thank you for your answers so far. I came across the tamrac expedition 5 as well and found them both very nice, but I can't decide...any practice experience with the tamrac?
Thank you

Find your local stockists, suggest a bit of goggling, and try them, nothing better than trying the actual item. I use two Tamracs and I know several others with Cyberpacks but equally I know those who use Lowepro and swear by them. All I can say is the Tamracs are well made and comfortable.

[cas]

Hi Tony,
the trying is the problem, I live in Swansea, except of Jessops, who hasn't got the Tamrac, there is not much here to try. Have to wait until I come to Cardiff... :-(

[cas]

Good morning,
I just wanted to say, I decided on the backpack and bought a Tamrac expedition 5. I liked the padding better. Hope it was a good choice..time will show.
Thank you for your help again.