This thread discusses the Content article: Camera Bag for Travel

I have a Crumpler Sinking Barge; it's big on the outside but awkward to get laptop, cameras, books or anything into, has almost no pockets, and it's expensive.

However it's comfortable with the not insignificant weight of the camera, lenses, batteries, power supply, and is really the best combination laptop / camera bag I've been able to find.

Does anyone have any better suggestiosn? Preferably that look better than the chunky STM or Lowe ones?

ciao Colin

Hey Colin,

You should check out ThinkTank Photo. The are a professional camera bag specialist with an excellent range. I think their bags are better value for money than Crumpler though they don't look as cool as the Crumplers do. But Crumplers are so overpriced and as you mentioned, may not exactly be up to the task as they are not camera bag specialists.

I have my eye set on the Urban Design 30.

Chris

Interesting; the urban design 50 looks good as well; being able to carry the laptop.

I do like having a backpack though, much better for the back...

I think the backpack is good for the travel portion of the trip but not for daytrips while you are at your destination. For one, you're not going to be bringing your laptop around with you and secondly backpacks are a hassle to get on and off if you want to change lenses.

That's why I like the Urban Design series as they are shoulder bags which makes accessing the bag really easy.

It's a tough call. The urban design series from Thinktank do look like a good compromise, especially the Urban Design 50 that Colin mentioned. I have to agree with Colin though, that when you're carrying 6-7 kgs, that it's much easier to have it as a backpack rather than slung over one shoulder. Tough call between wanting easy access versus all day comfort.