Bag Dilemma

Kevin,
When I'm going to be outside all day I love using my Kata R-103 (little brother to the 207) and find it to be a very comfortable bag to wear. I also got a set of Tamrac Backpack camera straps that I connect to the shoulder straps of the R-103 so I can just let the camera hang from them. In affect It couterbalances the backpack. I don't think there is a more comfortable backpack out there. I believe the 103 can hold up to a 15" laptop. Not sure about the 207. Also if you find you need more carrying capacity Kata has a waist-bag and a torso bag that connect to the backpacks. In that setup you’ll have enormous carrying capabilities.

Whatever you decide on be sure to try it on before buying it just to make it is comfortable for your build.

 

You have a couple of great options listed above........I would also include the ThinkTank Backpacks as possible options in your search.......... I currently have the Airport Addicted and the Airport Acceleration. I use the Acceleration for day trips and really like it.

Good luck on your search.

Ted

 

It sounds like we're in similar boats. I'd like something to carry my D200 with 70-200VR, 18-200VR, 28-70, 12-24 & MacBook Pro, and assorted accessories.

I'm probably going to end up with either a Kata or Crumpler. I know that Crumpler's bags in this size claim to meet carry-on restrictions, and I presume that a Kata in the same class would also fit.

A local photo shop has a very large Kata bag and I like the look & fit of it. I'm also happy with my Crumpler shoulder bag. Still, I'd like to see some good photos of these bags inside & out before I order one.

LowePro and Tamrac are at the bottom of my list. They seem to cheap-out on materials in some places.

 

Bill,
The Kata R-103 looks exactly the as the R-102 except it also has room for a laptop. You can find a decent review of it here:

http://www.shuttertalk.com/articles/katar102

That site also has reviews of both of the Kata Torso packs and images with it attached to the back pack.

http://www.shuttertalk.com/articles/katat214

He also has a review of the Crumpler Sinking Barge backpack if you are considering it.

This for sale thread for the Kata 207 (sold) has some great photos of it.

https://www.nikoncafe.com/vforums/showthread.php?t=108732&highlight=Kata

 

Don't rule out the new LowePro Vertex line.

http://www.adorama.com/LPV300AW.html?searchinfo=vertex&item_no=3

They are smaller than the Trekker AW's and a little more rectangular which is space efficient. You should be able to carry both the tripod and monopod if you rig a second pod holder onto it.

 

Kevin...
You might want to look directly at the Kata sight for pictures for the R-103:
http://www.kata-bags.com/Item.asp?pid=275&perentId=4&ProdLine=4
or the HB-207:
http://www.kata-bags.com/Item.asp?pid=273&cid=28&perentId=4&ProdLine=4

 

I have the Kata R-103, D200 with 70-200 attached, 18-70, SB600, 50 1.8, 105 micro, MacBook Pro and accessories. I can post pictures if that would help.

 

My 15" barely fits. I'd have to guess that the 17" will not fit.

 

Checking their website the only kata backpacks that can hold a 17 laptop and your gear are the HB207 and the BP502.