p.3 #1 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
surf monkey wrote:
Actually, the Ospreys are great for carrying a tripod. Put two legs in the side mesh pocket and tighten the diagonal side strap across the top. Easy and secure, but not recommended for a large tripod, but I wouldn't recommend a large tripod for hiking anyway. Most hiking packs work well with a tripod because their built to store trekking poles or an axe or other such equipment.
Yes, in certain cases this can be better than stuffing it inside. As you point out the mesh pocket on the Ospreys is rather flimsy. I have never tried it, but I would guess that anything more than a 1-series Gitzo will be too much weight. This particular arrangement also makes the tripod protrude above your shoulders, particularly when the ballhead is in place. Walking through the forrest off-trail can be tough, particularly with significant underbrush. The tripod catching on branches is annoying on a good day, and downright infuriating with wet foliage. On the Loka the tripod falls low, below the level of your shoulders. It will still catch on things when you try to crawl under a fallen tree trunk, but during normal walking it is completely out of the way.
p.3 #2 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
I agree that it's best to skip the photo backpack route. I use an Osprey Atmos 65 as my daypack. It's probably much larger than you need, but it's very light and can be packed with as little or as much as I would like. If you have the opportunity to visit an REI or similar store, do it. It's hard to pick a pack until you have tried it on. For storing your gear, you will need to be a bit creative. I use padded inserts from other bags that are no longer being used. Pay close attention to the waistbelt -- this is what will hold the weight of your gear. Most photo backpacks put the entire load on your back, which is horrible.
To store my Gitzo 2 series tripod on the Osprey, I use a Lowepro neoprene water bottle holder that is strapped to one of the horizontal straps at the base of the pack. I then tie it off at the top. It's a perfect match.
p.3 #3 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
I too have moved away from photo-bags. I've found them bulky, hard to access gear in on the fly, and attention-grabbing.
I primarily use either a North Face Hot Shot (which isn't even a technical bag) for day or simple multi-day trips, and/or an Osprey Kestrel (I think it's 48, haven't actually needed it in the last 12 mos). But I also don't care big, bulky stuff. The most you'll see me with for a week-long location assignment is 5dmk2 w/ 35L attached, 17mm prime, 135L, 0-series benro travel angel tripod (and a bunch of little gadgets, accessories, digital backup).
Moving around, all that stuff goes in the bag. Usually have a rain shell, light mid layer, change of socks/underwear as padding on the bottom of the bag (actually, I leave a paperback notebook on the actual bottom for a variety of reasons (you can hide stuff between pages, helps keep the bottom of pack spread out, creates a hard/giving bottom layer), then camera with lens on goes on top of that, and second/third lenses go beside camera. I can always pivot the bag around on my shoulder and pull out the camera if I need to start shooting. Of course, if I'm actively shooting (or expect to NEED to shoot in the <1 second time-frame) I keep the camera out, over my shoulder.
Sometimes I keep the camera w/ lens over my shoulder and a second lens in a jacket pocket for quick swapping.
Everyone has their own styles, but this works fine/best (so far) for me. And it's gotten the job done from the tropics to the alps.
p.3 #4 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
My go-to bags in the past were Think Tank -- two different sizes. I recently got the F-Stop Tipola with large ICU. It is a world above the Think Tank bags. Several things that I particularly like about the Tipola are:
- true backpack waist belt for support,
- Access to equipment from the front (next to body) rather than back of the pack. This is very nice in wet and muddy conditions,
- room for clothing, etc. above the ICU,
- multiple straps for carrying not only a tripod, but other gear on the outside. While the tripod can be strapped on the back of the pack, there are "pockets" on each side to accommodate carrying the tripod on the side of the pack.
- good weather proofing. I like the fact that the ICU is weatherproofed, as well as the
backpack itself.
As noted previously in this tread, it is not necessary to remove the backpack completely to get at your camera gear. I rotate the pack to the front of me, extend my elbows out under the the straps to support the pack, support the pack on my waist, thus leaving my hands free to deal with lenses, filters, etc.
Another feature that I like is the fact that the waist belt is stiff enough to enable you to set the pack upright on the ground. Thus, you have access to the top compartments of the bag without laying the bag down. This might seem like a minor convenience, but I think that it is a nice feature.
Inventory of the F-Stop bags seems to vary. It took me about a month to get my bag.
p.3 #6 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
Jeff wrote: That's being pretty 'cup-half-full'...
I got the bag for a trip I am taking later in the spring. I have plenty of time to field test the bag, and would have time to return in if I am not satisfied with the product. For me, the cup is entirely full.
p.3 #7 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
Alway good to have lots of lead time when trying to get F-Stop's gear. Certainly worth the wait, but I would have thought they'd been able to figure out their supply issues by now.
p.3 #8 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
I think that demand exceeded expectations. And, perhaps the company did not have funding to create a large inventory. I would guess that the situation is becoming better, and that bags will be more available.
p.3 #9 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
Longtime Stratos 24 user here, and I love it. Bought it specifically because it was the one bag at REI that I saw that I could intelligently attach my tripod to. Right now I use Op/Tech lens sleeves to wrap my lenses (er... lens) and that goes in the outer pocket for easy access. I only have 2 lenses and they are roughly equal in size, so I just bring one sleeve along and wrap the spare lens in it. I really like the Op/Tech sleeves.
If I could change one thing with my setup it might be to look into getting an insert of some kind since storing all the little bits and pieces (filters, brush, battery, etc) for easy access can be tricky. If I could find a better method of consolidating them into a single insert. But I have also trended towards the philosophy where I'm strapping as much gear to the outside of my bag as I can, for easier access.
My cousin has an f-stop that he really likes. I haven't had much chance to check it out. Here's my bag next to his, out in the field where they belong .
p.3 #10 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
Ruahrc wrote:
Longtime Stratos 24 user here, and I love it. Bought it specifically because it was the one bag at REI that I saw that I could intelligently attach my tripod to. Right now I use Op/Tech lens sleeves to wrap my lenses (er... lens) and that goes in the outer pocket for easy access. I only have 2 lenses and they are roughly equal in size, so I just bring one sleeve along and wrap the spare lens in it. I really like the Op/Tech sleeves.
If I could change one thing with my setup it might be to look into getting an insert of some kind since storing all the little bits and pieces (filters, brush, battery, etc) for easy access can be tricky. If I could find a better method of consolidating them into a single insert. But I have also trended towards the philosophy where I'm strapping as much gear to the outside of my bag as I can, for easier access.
My cousin has an f-stop that he really likes. I haven't had much chance to check it out. Here's my bag next to his, out in the field where they belong .
That's the one I use, except in a gray color. The back suspension is my favorite feature - love the breathability.
Edit: your's actually looks a bit different then mine - probably different version from different years. Mine looks like this one: http://www.ospreypacks.com/en/product/mens/stratos_24_1
Norman, how do you strap your tripod down? I use a side pocket for two legs and strap the top ballhead portion with the diagonal strap. Just wondering if there's a better way. As for my "extra gear", I usually put these in a couple accessory bags and those go in one of the two upper pockets.
p.3 #11 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
GroovyGeek wrote:
This shows that you have never used an F-stop pack. The pack itself is essentially a high-quality shell with an internal frame and zippered access from the back (in addition to the top). You then put custom-designed lightly padded containers that vary from 25% to 100% of the pack, depending on how much gear you need to carry. If you pack light and strap a UL tent and a mat to the outside you can easily go on a 2 day hike with it in moderate weather and be completely comfortable.
I stand my statement. Are you a salesman for this company?
p.3 #12 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
The only F-Stop people that post here at FM.com are open about their positions. I'm guessing that what you are running into is a set of people who have actually used F-Stop's bags, and know how unique they are in the world of 'photo backpacks'. Before buying my first F-Stop bag, I, too would not have recommended a photo backpack of any kind. The distinction here is that F-Stop starts with bags worthy of backcountry use, and then makes them work for photographic equipment in a way that is extremely versatile and well-implemented.
We all have our own set of standards developed over years of seeing what works for our needs, I'm just extremely happy that I bit the bullet and tried their stuff, being a relatively unknown company in a large industry.
p.3 #13 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
surf monkey wrote:
That's the one I use, except in a gray color. The back suspension is my favorite feature - love the breathability.
Edit: your's actually looks a bit different then mine - probably different version from different years. Mine looks like this one: http://www.ospreypacks.com/en/product/mens/stratos_24_1
Norman, how do you strap your tripod down? I use a side pocket for two legs and strap the top ballhead portion with the diagonal strap. Just wondering if there's a better way. As for my "extra gear", I usually put these in a couple accessory bags and those go in one of the two upper pockets.
Yeah the Osprey Stratos I have is a few years old, and they have changed the design of the pack since I bought mine. Honestly I have seen the updated design and think I like the old style more, but I have never tried/used the updated model, just seen pictures.
I strap the tripod to the bag pretty much the same as you- by putting 2 of the 3 feet into one of the side pockets for water bottles, then securing the same 2 legs to the pack at the top using the side compression strap. Sometimes I don't put the bottom 2 feet into the water bottle pocket, rather let them dangle lower. In that situation I take one of the "ice axe loops" at the bottom and put the bottom of my tripod feet through the loop to prevent them from swaying around. I do this sometimes because when I hike in the field I usually don't carry/use the rubber feet that cover my metal tripod spikes, so sometimes I worry about the spikes punching through the thin fabric of the water bottle pocket.
In either configuration, the tripod is very securely attached to the bag so it doesn't shift or wobble as I move, making it very comfortable to hike with.
Kind of ironic since when I originally bought the bag, it was because it has two really great straps that go across the back of the pack that I used to strap my tripod on so that it was centered along my body. However, I ultimately decided that this put the weight of the tripod too far out from my back, so I moved to the side-mounting method to get the weight closer. I balance the weight of the tripod with a water bottle on the opposite side of the pack.
p.3 #14 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
I had the same issue and I decided to go with the Osprey Talon 44 pack with a Mountainsmith cube insert. Less than $200 for both and it gives great versatility and plenty of room for other gear. And Osprey has a lifetime warranty on their packs.
p.3 #15 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
K.R. Allison wrote:
I stand my statement. Are you a salesman for this company?
While I agree with you on all other photo backpacks I have seen, you are wrong about the F-stop ones. Groovy is correct - they are different. I bet you've never seen one or used one - correct?
For the record, I have no other relationship with F-stop other than as a happy customer.
p.3 #16 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
The main problem that I have with using a typical hiking backpack as a photo backpack is that the vast majority of them are top-loading only. I have both of the Lowepro Rover packs (standard and Dryzone) and they perform very well for what they are. For day hikes, they're more than adequate IMO.
I also have a Deuter 32L trail pack that I converted to a photo pack. This is about the only pack that I was able to find at my local REI that has a front and top entry. For a camera insert, I use the medium insert from F-Stop. The insert fits in perfectly, and I use two pieces of wide velcro tape to secure the sides of the pack to the insert (prevents small items from falling down the sides). With this arrangement, I can carry enough gear to suit my needs, and the medium insert also leaves me about 11 inches of space above to store essentials (gloves, windbreaker, food/snacks, toolkit, first aid kit, etc.). The front entry makes it very easy to get to my gear without having to go through the top and rummage around, trying to figure out which sock or wrap has the lens that I need. To secure the tripod, I simply sewed a Canon L Lens pouch to the bottom edge of the front cover. To carry the tripod, I simply flip the pouch out from the cover and secure the tripod down the center. Otherwise, the pouch simply flips back in for storage. Just wish the Deuter was a slight bit larger volume-wise. Other than that, it works very well with the medium F-Stop insert...perfect fit. If anyone can share their method combining gear and other other items in a top-entry only pack, and avoiding having to rummage, I'm all ears...maybe there's something I'm missing.
p.3 #17 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
Mike Ganz wrote:
The main problem that I have with using a typical hiking backpack as a photo backpack is that the vast majority of them are top-loading only.
I know what you mean about the top loading which is why I went with the Osprey Talon 44. The smaller Osprey bags didn't have the bottom loading option. And the nice thing about using a large hiking backpack is that if the extra space that you're not using for camera gear or other gear does not way a lot...meaning, I can use my 85 liter bag for as little as a medium insert from f-stop and the empty portion of the bag still weighs practically nothing. I like the option of having that extra room should I need it.
p.3 #18 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
From what I see of the F-Stop bags they appear to be the best design for people who hike with camera gear. The fabric looks like 420D nylon, will it stand up to being dragged over rocks and through forests ? Apart from F-Stop, all(most) other bags are fine for storing your gear and carrying it from A to B but are useless for carrying anything else. As previously mentioned the "proper" hiking packs have much greater capacity but are usually top loading so acces is difficult.
In my search for the perfect compromise I discovered the Maxpedition Vulture and Kifaru Siwash, both with panel opening and big enough to carry everything you need. If you think the F-Stop bags are expensive then don`t look at the Kifaru stuff
p.3 #19 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
Bryan Docter wrote:
I know what you mean about the top loading which is why I went with the Osprey Talon 44. The smaller Osprey bags didn't have the bottom loading option. And the nice thing about using a large hiking backpack is that if the extra space that you're not using for camera gear or other gear does not way a lot...meaning, I can use my 85 liter bag for as little as a medium insert from f-stop and the empty portion of the bag still weighs practically nothing. I like the option of having that extra room should I need it. ...Show more →
I looked at the specs of the Osprey Talon 44 (always in search of the ideal bag) and noticed that it too is a toploader. Question is, how do you separate your gear from the essentials, or do you use the bottom compartment strictly for the essentials? Curious as to how you're using this particular pack. I looked at the F-Stops in the past, but just can't seem to bring myself to shelling out close to $350-$400 or so for a pack when all is said and done.
p.3 #20 · Hiking Daypack that can handle photo gear
I have owned an F-Stop backpack, it is no where near as comfortable as an Osprey. It is however better than any other photo backpack but that isn't a very hard title to come by. I sold the F-Stop and now have two Ospreys and a Pac-Safe insert and Moutainsmith. They carry the weight so much more comfortably.
GroovyGeek wrote:
This shows that you have never used an F-stop pack. The pack itself is essentially a high-quality shell with an internal frame and zippered access from the back (in addition to the top). You then put custom-designed lightly padded containers that vary from 25% to 100% of the pack, depending on how much gear you need to carry. If you pack light and strap a UL tent and a mat to the outside you can easily go on a 2 day hike with it in moderate weather and be completely comfortable.
Clik and others make somewhat similar units with the significant downside that the storage compartments are fixed. The weight-to-volume ratio on some is rather atrocious. The F-stop stuff, while not in the same league as an Osprey, is much better than any other photo-oriented pack I have tried. The significant downside of an Osprey is that it does not carry a tripod well unless you stuff it inside the pack. The F-stop has a surprisingly simple solution....Show more →
That's being pretty 'cup-half-full'... 
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