Best Camera Backpack for Travel: Shimoda Action X50

[@BrendanvanSon]

Looking to get your hands on this bag? Check it out here: bit.ly/BvSBag

[@ShimodaDesigns]

You're making me blush Brendan. Glad you like it. - Ian

[@BrendanvanSon]

As good a bag as ever been made for a travel photographer. Real talk.

[@BrendanvanSon]

As good a bag as ever been made for a travel photographer. Real talk.

[@aviatorman8]

What sizes are available? Is this a good backpacking / photo combo bag? Looking for a bag suitable for both.

[@ShimodaDesigns]

@@aviatorman8 Hi 30, 50 and 70, it is a backpacking-photo bag with a flavor for action sports :) head to our launch page all the info is there: bit.ly/BvSBag

[@ShimodaDesigns]

@@Cuntymccuntface123 HI, you should visit the link Bredan posted - it has all the info, the series is very ideal for what you are after: bit.ly/BvSBag

[@ahiyaceej]

Can you bring the Shimoda action X50 as carry on/cabin bag/hand carry in the airplane without any problems or issues with the airlines?

[@Lightsource101]

Following

[@116Paul]

Chris. Did you find out if x50 could be a carry on? I have the xl extra padded shoulder straps. It makes it much bigger, but worth the comfort. Haha. Let me know if it worked out for you. My flight ✈ is in 20 hrs. Haha

[@ahiyaceej]

@@116Paul unfortunately not, im now considering the X70 because i think i prefer its side pockets and forget about the carry on. If there is any issues in check in, i would probably just take the core unit out and bring it with me with its sleeve cover.

[@116Paul]

@@ahiyaceej thanks for replying in time for my trip. I have the x50 and the plus shoulder pad from x70. Although it's heavy and bulky fully loaded, it's comfortable with the plus pads. I wouldn't go x70 unless you really need it and it's light material. No matter what size bag I get it's always full. Haha.

[@korzenienaglowie8034]

It's a pity you can't bring x50 on board! Does anyone have experience with x30?

[@timothylinn]

I think this new series of packs from Shimoda is as close to perfect as there is right now. It’s as though Ian took the best of everything that’s out there, threw in some original ideas with it, and created Action X. I’ve already backed it on Kickstarter.

[@ShimodaDesigns]

Something like that ... processed a lot of input over the last 2 years.

[@chrisborgmotorhome]

That camera bag looks amazing with all that storage. That foldable pouch on the top and those pouches on the side make it very versatile. Great video too.

[@SteveP_2426]

Hi Brendan, how sturdy are those fold out side pouches? Will frequent storage of a tripod in them wear the material into holes quickly? I'm looking for a new Camera bag - was thinking a larger Mindshift Backlight model or Gitzo Adventury...I was put off Shimoda bags before because I didn't like the tripod carrying options. I want to carry it in a side pocket and the old Shimoda design made using the side pocket look like an afterthought and was a bit cramped. This version is far more promising but was unsure if those mesh fold out pockets would get punctured by tripod legs?

[@ShimodaDesigns]

Metal will always be stronger than nylon, but these pockets were designed with consideration to durability and beat up tripods and the sharper corners of the ball heads.

[@1spitfirepilot]

I've had the Shimoda 40 for about a year and it's great. This new one looks good, but, for me, not an essential upgrade.

[@BrendanvanSon]

I agree. If you're making due with the 40, there's no urgent rush to get the new one. That bag is awesome

[@TylerEdwards]

Loving the London vlogs. Was just there and already want to go back. Bag looks sweet. My go-to has been the f-stop tilopa. Took camera gear and clothes for a 7 day trip to London/Lake district in it. I really dig the look of that Action X!

[@Milkywaymike]

With no tripods attached and the top portion of the bag empty/ compressed down, will the X50 fit underneath an Airplane seat?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yes, I think so. Not a lot of room for your feet, but it would.

[@Milkywaymike]

@@BrendanvanSon Thanks dude!

[@PereaPhotography]

Chris and I both now yell out “hey bear” and we’ve added “hey snake” here in AZ 😂 great video brotha and that bag looks awesome!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Hey Mike!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Hey Mike!

[@PereaPhotography]

Brendan van Son 😂

[@gregorsnell]

MIKE!

[@PereaPhotography]

Greg Snell Heeeyyyyyyyy Greg!!!!!

[@JohnHPettigrewFujishooter67]

Looks like a cool bag, enjoy the travels. Inspired buy all you landscape photographers finally got my first video up.

[@korzenienaglowie8034]

Is there a problem with bringing x50 onto a plane as hand luggage? I would prefer the x30 to the x50 but I am worried about what it will be like with the hand luggage. Requirements vary, but it's important that it packs and fits.

[@BrendanvanSon]

I never had a problem with the x55 on an airplane!

[@shaken0007]

My tip for eating & guiness Charlie Ps in 9th district near schottentor tram stop. Ronan is a legend my old local. You can go wrong for atomsphere if you have the time on your busy schedule. Great to see the home town again from ur perspective. Shame not more of it 😀

[@dennyhartanto2810]

just bought lowepro bag yesterday

[@jasonkennedy2045]

Which one? I have the 450aws2 and awesome.... already been drenched in Thailand rainfall and zero issues... and that’s just the last 3 days lol!!

[@dennyhartanto2810]

@@jasonkennedy2045 i bought the hatchback series, can't wait to try it out for adventure

[@TheLDunn1]

Perfect Gimbal? ....have you tried the RRS fluid gimbal?

[@richardbittles6829]

Love the bag will be good to know in a month if it's still the one..

[@mosessparks8340]

Can you fit a big lens into that bag, like a 400/2.8 or the Sony 200-600mm? The new Shimodas look great but I haven't seen any videos with big glass.

[@reallukx]

Brendan you didn't have problems with X50 on European airlines? Their carry on restrictions are 55cm height and this bag is 56cm high. I want to buy it but not sure if X30 won't be safer so I don't have any problems when using it as carry on board .

[@jeremyhendersonphotography]

More new kit :-) What do you do with the old kit while you are travelling?

[@Jeremy2A]

Definitely will be the next shimoda i will upgrade too. I have the 40L and love it but i would like a little more room for my adventures I do in Africa witty taking care of the kids.

[@fabienb]

Shame I went to shoot St. Charles rather than there at the Albertina, I would have enjoyed the surprise of bumping into you. I had hopes for the sky as the night before it was pouring rain so maybe a bit more drama than this dull sky... Anyway, hopefully I'll see you around one day. For once that our trips matched...

[@MinisterOfGuam]

Placed my Kickstarter order this morning. You know how long I've been waiting for this? MONTHS! hahahaha Thanks Papi Chulo

[@BrendanvanSon]

Hahah, you're gonna love it papi.

[@gregorsnell]

🤣

[@nick5ter]

nice review!, what's the liters for this bag, I'd guess 50 with the naming but figured id ask and is it cabin friendly complelty full even at the top.

[@ShimodaDesigns]

Hi, this size is the 50L - it expands to 57L... our measurements are taken when stuffed, so it can compress much smaller. - Ian

[@stephenadair8356]

Have you used the 70l yet? im wondering if i could get away with just taking that one bag out to Bali and fit everything inside

[@BrendanvanSon]

I haven't used it. I think you likely could fit everything. I'm thinking of getting that one for Greenland

[@peterg3021]

Must be new bag season. Just updated mine recently, Peter McKinnon launched a Kick Starter for his new design, and Nick Page is on the Tube reviewing his new one.

[@ALinNZ2]

Is it small enough to be cabin luggage or did you have to book it into the hold? Was that the 50L?

[@BrendanvanSon]

It fits carry on, no problem

[@scottman895]

I know that spot in Vienna! I remember getting a wurstel at that wurstelstand down there last year! Anyway, that's a very cool backpack! I'll be curious to see how well it works for you!

[@R.Hogarth]

Great video (as always). I am having a hard time finding a camera backpack that will fit my new Sony 200-600mm lens. That lens is a beast! Speaking of beasts, "Hey bear!"

[@TheLDunn1]

R Hogarth ...I have the Sony 200-600 lens too, and I think (hope) that I can just squeeze it into the DSLR Large ICU with a body attached.

[@R.Hogarth]

@@TheLDunn1 This summer, I sold my 200-600mm and my A7iii, and replaced them with a 100-400GM and an A7Riii. While I loved the images from my 200-600mm the reality is that I knew that I would be unlikely to carry it around "just in case". My hope is that although the 100-400mm does not give me the reach, I will be able to crop my image on the 100-400 without losing image quality. I know that I am FAR more likely to have my 100-400 in my bag than I would with my 200-600 when I "target of opportunity" crosses my path.

[@TheLDunn1]

R Hogarth ....I can see your logic. I have the 200-600 on an A7R3....so I’d have to upgrade to the A7R4 to crop more ;-) I bought the 200-600 with a specific purpose in mind, rather than a general just in case walk around.

[@R.Hogarth]

@@TheLDunn1 I bought the 200-600 following a trip to the "Jedi Transition" where my 70-300 just wasn't long enough.

[@TheLDunn1]

R Hogarth ...I have to ask: ‘Jedi Transition’’? ....is that referring to changing to Sony from another system (Canon maybe?)....or am I missing something?

[@DelDelap]

Which version is this i',m guessing the X50?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yes!

[@sassytbc7923]

Could you use the small pocket for spare batteries?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yes, I do.

[@xtremepsy2098]

Hey Brendan! I have a tamron 150-600 G2, some camouflage stuff, a macro 100 f2.8 and some other small things I carry with me. Would you recommend x50 or x70? i'm pending between both...thank you!

[@RaysAirgunsReview]

Hello,read this bag isnt available until April 2020,any other options/companies that has a real comfortable bag that is available now,that carries a bit of gear? Thanks

[@kevinbarr2480]

Love the dry bag style top. Do I see a give away coming? It definitely looks like the ultimate bag.

[@yiweikaku]

In KS,the price of X30 is exactly the same as the Explore 40 sold in Taiwan, I am very excited! After choosing Pro Kit, I found out that I had to spend 25% more on shipping! To be honest, this made me fall into consideration. In Asia, $70 is a considerable amount, and I have never paid such a large amount of freight on the Internet.

[@rubenaguilera4018]

Will you teview Peter MacKinnon camera bag?

[@guilhermeteixeira3841]

Do you think that the bag have enough space for a 500m attached to camera body?

[@ShimodaDesigns]

It depends which 500mm you talking about. Let me know the full length and Ill let you know what bag would be best.

[@guilhermeteixeira3841]

@@ShimodaDesigns like the sigma 500 mm f/4, I think that have 386 mm of length

[@ShimodaDesigns]

​@@guilhermeteixeira3841 depending on the diameter, you would need a Large DSLR or DV depending on the diameter: You can reference this graphic. ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/026/763/968/775909f7cc5639f344a448c6c8b4c79c_original.jpg?ixlib=rb-2.1.0&w=680&fit=max&v=1570564260&auto=format&gif-q=50&q=92&s=33df6b3d94542178b0bf319cdd86a6cd

[@aviatorman8]

Awesome and thorough review, thanks a lot. What’s the size of the one you have? You made me smile talking about bears while sitting in this fancy civilized hotel room in Vienna haha

[@jss27560]

You didn't know that bear attacks are the leading cause of death in Vienna hotel rooms?

[@aviatorman8]

Jeffrey S lol

[@ShimodaDesigns]

Brendan has the X50. - Ian

[@aviatorman8]

Shimoda Designs thanks

[@brandt_bennett]

The name and size of the bag is also in the title of this video. ☺️

[@wolfsheadphotographic2521]

I’m really interested in this, which size of bag is your one please?

[@BrendanvanSon]

It's the x50. Should probably change the title

[@wolfsheadphotographic2521]

Thanks I figured it was! I’m really interested in how the backsize is adjustable as my fstop bag is just a little too short!

[@chrisnigul]

Do you have the medium or large ICU? and what's the separate additional ICU you mentioned?

[@vikingjack9994]

No clothes? Do you still use this bag?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yup, still use it! Although now the newer version!

[@dinham]

Can you remove the waist strap? I find at times these to be annoying and just get in the way when not in use.

[@BrendanvanSon]

I don't think so, to be honest

[@ShimodaDesigns]

You can absolutely remove the waist belt. It designed to be removed :)

[@ShimodaDesigns]

@@BrendanvanSon You can absolutely remove the waist belt. It designed to be removed :)

[@dinham]

Thank you for the replies. Can I ask where I can order this from in the UK and is there a promotion code available? I see every KZbin pushed this product this week. @aarondinham on Instagram.

[@aviatorman8]

I like your excitement at the into! Innocently happy checking out a new gift :D

[@peterafilms]

How are they with it traveling on a plane?

[@BrendanvanSon]

No problem at all. With the top rolled down it fits everywhere.

[@bikecommuter24]

LOL I love the lady in the red coat trying to be casual I think she wanted to see what you were up to, I get that when I set up my tripod, there is always one person being curious or nosy 😆 Myself I let them look through the viewfinder or screen to see what I'm doing. Nice bag, but it would look way to big on me I take it X50 means 50 litre? if so thats a big bag. Cheers.

[@ShimodaDesigns]

There is a 30L aswell, also the bag compress nicely. The liter sizing is when its stuffed. - Ian

[@bikecommuter24]

@@ShimodaDesigns Cool and here I'm a using a 13L 😁 but then I'm not using all the gear other people have.

[@edpeters9425]

What size core unit is that? The DSLR Medium V2?

[@BrendanvanSon]

I think so, yes!

[@sathwicks2111]

Nice video

[@Zenither]

How much ?

[@brunomartelli8163]

ist it the x30 or the x50 ?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Sorry, mine is the 50.

[@PeteMiller]

That definitely makes my current bags (which I've loved) look sad & pathetic. The Shimoda x50 MAY just be the replacement for my F-Stop Gear Tilopa & Loka UL.

[@radeknazwisko9180]

Pete Miller i have Tilopa and for 300$ new Bags is no sense. New bags only 3l more?

[@PeteMiller]

radek nazwisko I’m still waiting to see weight of the x50 vs TilopaBC. I’d actually be more interested in the x30, but I think it may be a tad too small (compared to my Loka UL). Likely won’t jump into the Kickstarter as I have far too much $$ going out for this n that through March 2020 (lol).

[@radeknazwisko9180]

Pete Miller you see WANDRD's PRVKE 31? I have 21l and is amazing.

[@radeknazwisko9180]

Pete Miller you see WANDRD's PRVKE 31? I have 21l and is amazing.

[@jcben]

The phrase "Best camera backpack" sould be forbidden, i see it used each time i watch a camera review. ;)

[@BrendanvanSon]

But this time I really mean it!!

[@jasonkennedy2045]

I like the distinction... perfect bag for Brendan... which I think is fair and reasonable. 👍

[@jcben]

@@BrendanvanSon When you tested the previous Shimoda bag i rememeber its depth was problematic for some airlines (shameful Ryanair); from the specs it seems they have done a good job on this front so you may be right saying it's perfect.

[@peterhiggins3329]

Its a great product but its also really expensive X30 at $480AUD plus $100AUD delivery to Australia.

[@FrankCrispo]

Love your channel, love your work and I mean no disrespect but come on, Brendan! Would you walk on your own bed at home with your shoes on? Show some respect for other people's property.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Clean shoes. Never been worn outside before. Don't stress.

[@michellewesson4409]

So I just purchased the Shimoda 30 and very happy with. But now there is a new generation????? You are killing me here. 🙄

[@BrendanvanSon]

Haha, there will always be new things. If you're happy with what you've got you don't need the new one. Lol

[@stigmata77]

Perfect bag? So no future "perfect bag" reviews? Or it's perfect until someone else send you another perfect bag?

[@BrendanvanSon]

It's perfect. I'm sure someone might innovate something beyond it. But, for me, I don't need anything else.

[@AndrewRobins]

No more ‘best camera bag’ videos for at least a year please Brendan 😉. I use the Gitzo Adventury which is still my favourite 👍

[@tanltdowar]

Now you just need a new pair of trousers (pants for the Americans reading this).

[@BrendanvanSon]

Desperately. Haha. These are feeling apart.

[@normacocks8410]

🌻🌻

[@medioreblatherskite]

lol the shoes on the bed makes me grossed out

[@bguerre1ro]

Finally!! ;)

[@justinrstone]

Man... Why does everything have to come in such boring colours? I have a Lowepro flipside that's only okay-ish... but it's bright effing orange.

[@BrendanvanSon]

I agree. Camera bag colours are usually really lame

[@tiinasoderholm]

Haven't watched the video yet because I'm at work but needed to come here to comment :D Lol I don't even comment that much but here we go. I ordered Peak Design medium cube and Osprey Kyte 36l and 46l to test, which I will get tomorrow. Idea is that when flying with carry-on I can take my cube out if needed. My existing Think Tank airport commuter hurts me because shitty waist strap. Like they make camera backs just to hold your stuff securely but forgets that humans use them. Atlas pack seemed good possibility but so expensive to get in europe. I liked Shimodas last packs but everything that were missing, seems to be here. Bigger laptop sleeve, water bottle stretchy pockets, side acces, passport/phone pocket (bigger). I just hate the colors, the turquoise one was okey. And I think that peak design cube is better but in this shimoda pack including the cube, I think that I will take it probably... it for some reason isn't protected on front and that sucks if I need to take it as carry-on and place it under the seat... and in this Shimoda pack postage is 70$ so it will cost 330€. If they send it from USA then it will cost me a lot more because taxes... just needed to come and share my opinion :D Probably going to order this anyway. First I need to test peak and osprey setup, using side acces on that pack and or bottom sleeping bag compartment for peak medium cube...

[@dennissteul5445]

You need to stay out of those camera stores!

[@domdrone6766]

According to Peter Mc Kinnon the perfect Travel bag is not even released 😂 still under financing / project ...

[@charlymauer]

If you like it so much why don't you marry it... I know you said you are putting a ring on it... Can be on the wedding? Does the bag have any friends?😉😉

[@paulfarley8023]

£390 😭

[@jeanpaulgauci4762]

First! woot woot !

[@correctaperture]

ATTENTION: DAMAGE IS VERY LIKELY TO YOUR ACTION X50 IT HAS ISSUES WITH DESIGN OF BASE FABRIC MATERIAL. Please read below including response from Shimoda design team.... Your marketing seemed pretty clear to me that this new extra tough model from the Shimoda range has an extra tough base material built in. But what I've actually found after just a few outings is that the base is actually made from a less abrasion resistant material than the coated nylon you have put on the rest of the product, and in fact all your ranges prior. You seem to be in the defence already here on expected life span of surface materials. I can assure you 100% my action X50 has been handled with care when laying it's back on the ground, and I am horrified by how fast the base has surcumed to damage compared to the rest of the packs surface this is surely a design flaws as it does not hold the same tough nylon laminated properties as the main bags surface area. I promise you all surface areas of the product have been exposed to an equal abrasion situation on my photography trips as the pack has to lie backside down during access to the rear door panel as you are aware. I never sit it on the base, and it's a true error in the manufacturing choice of material as if you would have continued to keep to your original series formula of ripstop reinforced coated nylon the base material would not in my opinion have suffered this same damage in a short space of time, as is proven by the material exposed to the same rigur above this area on my bag. I am a very careful owner of all my outdoor gear and look after everything I use, as I expect many months and years of use. This is not acceptable I am sure you will agree, here In my assessment stated. RESPONSE BELOW FROM SHIMODA... hi Chris, Our bags are designed for outdoor environments, regardless of how many days they have been in the field - abrasion can cause damage to the pack. They are not indestructible and I do not think our marketing has ever claimed them to be. Ian Millar, Shimoda.

[@hramakrishnaiah413]

Who cares about your bag?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Well, considering I've had about 50 questions about it before posting this, at least 50 people?

[@hramakrishnaiah413]

@@BrendanvanSon ahaaahaaaa... the best way to get you answer the comment!!! Good one.