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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
10-07-2016, 09:54 AM
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The Manfrotto Hiker 30L doesn't have a dedicated pouch for a large water bladder. There are 2 thin pockets outside the bag that don't seem intended for water: one could hold a wide bag but it would have to be thin, the other could fit a thicker bag but it would have to be narrow. My yet to be field-tested water plan is a bottle in the side net, and Vapur Element Water Bottle - 24 fl. oz. - REI.com clipped outside the backpack or onto my belt.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
10-06-2016, 09:58 AM
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I was just in B&H and bought a Manfrotto Off Road Hiker 30L backpack. I compared multiple bags and it was a close choice between the Hiker and Vanguard Sedona 51.
Summarizing the 2 bags, the Manfrotto Hiker 30L feels like a day hiking bag with photography features added, while the Vanguard Sedona 51 is more of a camera bag with hiking features added. The key difference for me was the Hiker has a rigid back while the Sedona felt soft and floppy:
- Hiker keeps its shape regardless how its loaded. That's more comfortable for hiking.
- Hiker has a mesh that goes against your back, then air space, then the rigid back. This provides ventilation for a less sweaty back.
- Note that the rigid back means Hiker cannot be folded and compressed into luggage when empty. If traveling by plane make Hiker your carry-on. I think it's small enough for carry-on but check airline requirements.
Addressing the original points from @serothis at the top of this thread:
- Space for k-1 + lens + 1-2 spare lenses; flash (yongnuo 560 III); Both bags should fit that, but Sedona has more camera space than Hiker. What lenses do you want to bring? And why flash on a hike?
- Compartment for non-camera gear. Both bags have a compartment above the camera section (plus smaller storage pockets). Hiker has a larger compartment.
- Storage for tripod (Dolica TX570DS) and a water bottle. I think that's a small-ish travel tripod. You have multiple mounting points for a tripod with either bag. Both bags are good for small tripods, but Sedona has better mounting options for large tripods.
- Some way to attach/store a rain coat (nice to have but not required). A small coat can store inside. If you take it off while it's still wet you can find a place to let it dry on the outside of either bag.
- Water resistance is a plus. Both bags have rain covers inside that can be pulled over. Hiker seems more rainproof because it has a large flap covering the top. A light rain will run off the top of Hiker, while Sedona has a zipper on top that needs the rain cover sooner.
- Discretion is also a plus. Something that doesn't scream "ˇˇexpensive camera gear inside!!" The Sedona looks like a cheaper bag and is less obvious.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
10-02-2016, 06:02 PM
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Hike with a shoulder bag? The OP asked about all-day hiking in Costa Rica. A backpack is much more stable than a shoulder bag when ascending and descending uneven ground.
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