Originally posted by serothis My hunt for a travel pack has begun.
You'll get all sorts of replies where people will recommend the bag they use. That's normal.
Do you already have a non-camera backpack that you enjoy using? If so, use that one, simply add an insert fitted to the bag to protect your camera gear.
A good backpack is of tremendous importance when hiking. By "good" I mean" properly fitted to your body". There are many many more options for regular backpacks than there are for camera backpacks, so it's more likely that you will find a good back if it's not dedicated for cameras.
For instance, my bag (I won't tell you the brand unless you ask, no fanboy here :P ) has top and bottom compartments. The bottom compartment is a perfect fit for an insert, and can store a camera with zoom lens, flash, 2-3 primes and accessories. The top compartment has a water bladder, room for food, a long lens in its case (such as the 60-250), it has a mesh back (something you won't find on most camera bags) and a side pocket which is perfect for a tripod.