Backpack For School and Small kit?

[PHeller]

I need a new backpack for school. I also would like backpack for my camera gear.

I'm finding that often times I'll go on day trips into the city or hikes in the country and I'll want to take along more than just my camera, but I don't like my camera just being thrown into my backpack. I also hate carrying two bags.

This past summer I spent a lot of time in the city, on my bike, carrying extra clothing/shoes/ sometimes a laptop (netbook) and I was concerned about my camera just floating around in here however.

Are there any bags that have a "normal" single pocket or dual pocket main storage, but then have a armored/cushioned camera lower storage?

Maybe something that has a removable divider system for the days at school without the camera when I'm carrying books and binders?

[TheWengler]

How much gear do you have? Look at the Tamrac Aero Speed Pack. It has two compartments. I don't think it'd work very well for school stuff though.

[Csae]

Most larger camera backpacks have a slot for a laptop, which can fit a notebook/binder if needed.

Most lowerpro, if not all of lowerpro's systems, all have removable dividers on the insides, so when you aren't carrying the camera, its essentially a large backpack with 1 big pocket.

However, putting the dividers back in place is a bit of a hassle, be warned in advance.



When you remove those dividers, you essentially get a big open space. Personally, i usually just put a thick sketch book in the notebook compartement and a reading book in the front pocket.

Definitely try them at a store, because theres no way to know what kind of size requirements you would need for your school supplies.

Hell, if you're lucky, you might be able to figure out a way to use the dividers to keep your school books And the camera. Im quite fond of lowerpro's velcro dividers systems, i wish they left more room for customizing by putting more velcro in, but i've gotten quite a few odd layouts myself and managed to fit more then recommended heh.


Well, hope that was helpful, good luck to you.

[PHeller]

My other option could be going with a messenger/commuter backpack and adding foam dividers on the bottom when carrying the camera. Downside? All my stuff would be on top.

[wirehunt]

Lowepro Compu rover AW sounds about prefect for you.

[AdamW]

Originally Posted by wirehunt

Lowepro Compu rover AW sounds about prefect for you.

Also, check out the Crumpler backpacks and messenger bags. They're not cheap, but they're built really tough. I use the Sinking Barge backpack every day. Very comfortable, even fully loaded.