The Best Camera Backpack - Custom-build your own!

[@mjdrareg]

the only person I could watch discuss backpacks for 40 minutes.

[@simonheereman1616]

And … we did

[@MGMKT]

You are right, we did.

[@jeremias.lindner]

Totally agree with you

[@lukassinger_photo]

I actually love these Videos because you‘re the only person who I truly believe not to be influenced by sponsorships etc. and you‘re also the only person I could listen to talk about backpacks even so I’m not looking for one for over 40 minutes, so just thank you for all that.

[@MortenHilmer]

Thanks a lot Lukas. I really appreciate 👍

[@TheKratlusker]

It’s funny… For the past week I’ve been looking for a new backpack that could fit my camera gear and other supplies for outdoor trips - and I just couldn’t find any “camerabags” that could hold up to the quality of a good outdoor backpack. The exact same problem you’re describing here. Such a coincident that you would make a video about that exact problem - thank you!

[@ravineelakantan6417]

Transparency with Goodness, simplicity blended with experience , knowledge ripened with Humility...this man is truly a legend of sorts...wonderful video ....thanks for sharing.

[@michaelpaulphotoworks5392]

I've been saying it for years. Camera specific backpacks are about perceived function and looks instead of raw carrying comfort and pure field usage utility. I gave up years ago thinking any of the manufacturers would offer something that bailed on the "cool" factor for prioritizing function. I use hiking bags and have "made my own" based on comfort and use needs and have been much happier and less frustrated. It's nice to know I'm not the only one whose had these experiences and feelings.

[@nazarrizaldielias1189]

I love when he said stay to the camera 🤣🤣. That sincere feel whenever you share about anything it give me a nice feeling

[@asher05]

I haven't seen the entire video yet and i can already tell it is going to be good

[@Andy_Thomas]

After looking at camera backpacks, I also came to the conclusion that it's better to buy a dedicated backpack that suits your needs and is comfortable, and then just get some general purpose padded liners to fit inside it. Much cheaper, more flexible and all round better solution.

[@Byrkster]

I was thinking the same thing. I have spent so much time looking for the best "camera bag" when I have the backpack I enjoy... This video was great.

[@BrianNorthmorePhotography]

Morgen I totally agree with you. I have had a number of bags, but the most comfortable packs I have ever carried have been designed for hiking not photography. I think comfort and carrying ability are far more important than anything else. I now use a Mammut 50ltr with a ICU from an old pack, saved loads of money and it’s very comfortable, when I can I may by a 30ltr for shorter trips, maybe after watching your video that will be a military pack. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

[@patricksmith2553]

To each their own, I prefer Gura Gear 35L or ThinkTank Airport Accelerator, Lowepro Lens Trekker AW II/III for just my flagship D6 and 500mm FL.

[@francoissavioz1531]

Same for me: an old Mammut Trion Pro 50 + ICU F-Stop.👌🏻access to the photo gear is identical to the F-Stop bags

[@BrianNorthmorePhotography]

@@francoissavioz1531 Im now looking at the smaller Trion I think maybe its the 30 or 35 so I can have smaller pack for shorter hikes when I don’t need so much outdoor gear.

[@paulg.2347]

Hi Morten, i don't have big photo equipment like you but after buying several photo bags and finding them not confortable when hicking . I finally switch to a Osprey Kamber 42l hicking pack and i put ICU for my camera gear. NO more shoulder and back pain. Out door bags are the winner.

[@Tuomimaki]

I did the same with Osprey Kestrel 68. Love it!

[@TheWillRogers]

I've been using an Osprey Aether. Opening is a little small but it's fine. I think I liked my Decathlon Forclaz Trek 900 pack better for access, but the Aether is more comfy.

[@rauberdaniel]

Thank you for your insights and experience about backpacks! Appreciate the honesty and that you’re not trying to sell something.

[@KGi4]

i have the same issue with photo backpacks, so i got separate ICU and put in hiking backpack with front big zipper from Gregory. So i can easily access gear from top rather digging from buttom through all my stuff. I am happy with this combination, so i can understand your struggle, Morten :)

[@michalsiarek]

You may want to check Mystery Ranch with overload feature and with full zip-off front. Overload is great for atypical load, like peli case - or another pack, a saw or a carcass. Newer model is upgraded with better hip belt with molle, easier frontal access (previously you'd need to open more side compression straps). They added a waterproof double-lid as option. What I miss are expandable side pockets like in fjallraven kajka. But, it's not as big as norrona and bergans. 80L isn't as spacious. There are ways around with super-long lid and overload though. I.e. with tent you can fold everything flat into overload part. Similarly with sleeping bag, folded inside waterproof bivi. It's a matter of different habits in packing. One advantage is you can remove the bag from frame (like in firefighter frame) and either use the lid as small backpack or fit huge side pockets onto it (norrona-style). No pulk loop in the belt, needs a modification. One heck of a pack.

[@TheStephanSD]

Hi Morten, thank you for the video! Here's one more option: Some years ago, I've put the completely loaded LowePro PhotoTrecker AW II as "ICU" into my Bergans PowerFrame. It fits (leaving lots of space for other gear), because the Bergans ist so insanely huge. Then, the PowerFrame Monster acted as "mothership" from where I've ben able to pull out the complete PhotoTrecker as a "shuttle" from the bay, and the Bergans could stay in the biwak. Heavy & somehow bizarre (if not to say awkward) - but it was well worth the try. ;-) Greetings, Stephan

[@Luke-dk4ei]

Love your attitude towards quality and price. Great video and very useful recommendations. Another possible modification to carry tripods: Add a magazine pouch (I use a Tasmanian Tiger G36 pouch) for two magazines to the front of the backpack. The pouch holds the legs of my tripod while added straps hold the top. I like that better than having excess weight on one side of the backpack. I bought a smaller Savotta (Jääkäri L) to be able to add a camel bag / water bladder, food and rain gear along camera gear. I really like its durability and options to add pockets. What I dislike is squeaking of straps/the top of the backpack sometimes, the fact that the straps will loosen, eg at the bottom and the top of the backpack, and camera gear / the ICU is only accessible from the top. I am not sure an ICU for the 400 f2.8 fits into the backpack - so this video came just in time. Thank you

[@cristibaluta]

The best carrying system i had was on a lowepro, it had straps at the buttom of the bag. Putting the tripod on the front of the bag is a lot of weight detached from your body moving around... On the side is not bad, you can counter balance the weight

[@fabiankeppler315]

Even as this was not a review it was the best overview I have seen. I am guilty of following the advice from other ‘influencers’ and have about the same collection (lowpro/f-stop) and unfortunately with the same conclusions. The prices are ridiculous, functionality sub-par. Great advice, would like to have seen this 3 years ago 😊

[@stevekaschak9442]

Great video Mr. Hilmer! How I always deal with the "click' sound of those fasteners is how you place your thumb and index finger and squeeze to open, when closing the fastener, place your thumb and index finger on the same location to catch the little ears before they snap open to lock. Then gently release them. Absolutely silent. Thank you again for your wonderful videos and for bringing all of along on your adventures! Best wishes, Steve

[@zenphotojourney]

I was going to suggest something like that but you put it very well so no need for me to repeat it. I've done the same and it works good.

[@oleg-dobrokhotov]

Hi Morten! I totally agree with your message, "find good quality staff that suits your needs." However, the problem I often had (and still sometimes have) is that when you are a newbie, you don't know your needs and end up buying something based on someone else's experience. To make wise choices, one first needs to gain wisdom. So thank you for a lovely video where I can learn from your knowledge and hopefully make fewer mistakes))

[@patkeen8668]

Morton is just the best. Everything comes from the heart with the wisdom from experience. I can't remember ever watching an equipment video over 30 minutes until now.

[@corrbox2]

Hi Morten, I have to tell you, your ingenuity is incredible. The various camera and military bags you're putting together to compare for your video is amazing. No doubt once you are totally in the Nikon Z system, your lenses will change. I don't know if they'll will be a replacement for the Nikkor 600mm f4, you're lugging around on your photo treks. I've shot with that lens on numerous travels, and it's an amazing lens. Bulky, heavy, even in it's newest version. It's sharpness are 2nd to none in my book. How you work and shoot everywhere with it is a true example of you dedication and photographic expertise. To schlep all that gear in one bag is an amazing accomplishment of your back strength. Bravo to you for your engineering abilities. Thank you for producing this interesting and informative video. 😎 📷 👍

[@corrbox2]

Morten, you asked me to contact you, but I'm not sure with which communication format. Please let me know, once more. Thank you! Joel

[@RaphaelBugiel]

Hi Morten, I'm using the Bergans together with the ICU-Alternative from Flyht Pro (Flyht Pro Flex Inlay WP Safe Box 7 fits well into the Bergans (approx 35€)) for two years now to carry my stuff around at the Swiss alps. To "close" the ICU I just put a small piece of a sleeping pad on top of it. I have no quality comparison to the f-stop ones, but they work fine for me.

[@Luke-dk4ei]

If only I had seen this earlier. This seems to be a steal compared to the F-Stop one

[@isabellegauthier1254]

Thank you for your video, been buying a few camera backpacks and was not happy with them. I checked that one your using and they're pretty expensive in Australia. So not too sure which I'll get next but am looking into trekking packs. Thank you.

[@Goat.Herder]

Oh great, thanks Morten.... Now I feel like I should add yet another bag to my collection 😂👍

[@nforester]

Nice video Morten. I almost did the same thing, but switched not to "military", but hiking backpacks (osprey). Feels much more comfortable and cheaper too.

[@OleAndersAndreassen]

Norrøna's packs are also Norwegian. Their frame backpack was developed in collaboration with special forces in the Nordic region. I have both Norrøna and Bergans packs. I first bought a Bergans pack, but it almost drove me crazy. The carrying system makes an incredible amount of noise and creaks when the pack gets a bit heavy. The Norrøna pack, on the other hand, is completely silent. If you want to take short excursions from base camp, the side pockets and top lid on the Norrøna pack can be detached and used as a daypack. Additionally, the Norrøna pack has far more attachment points.

[@frankstopa6270]

Excellent advice! Like you and many others, I've concluded that camera backpacks just don't work or me. Adapting military gear to my uses works so much better. I would add that if I'm going to be on/in/near water, I like military drybags to protect my cameras and lenses. Watershed Drybags makes a range of military drybags that I like as backpacks and have adapted as slings. They are even submersible up to about 100 meters! Again excellent advice! Thank you.

[@bestregardsangela7543]

Thank you for a great detailed video! I’m a tall girl who has dslr and big lenses, and now I prefer looking at hiking backpacks than photo backpacks, because my spine hates the way it feels after three hours of walking with peak design or something like that. And the more comfortable the physical process is, the better we work. I haven’t found a great backpack for myself for now, but that is a journey and it was super valuable to hear your thoughts and experienced opinion, thank you for help!

[@adebrooks7218]

Have a look at some of the Mystery Ranch packs. My experience is with the military packs where molle is available and they are all designed to carry heavier loads. Bombproof and the access systems available lend themselves to good integration with camera cubes/ICU’s etc.

[@yukonchris]

Hi Morten, Thank you for making this video. It is very refreshing to watch a You Tube presenter who is talking about products but not actually trying to sell you anything. I agree with your advice to try prospective products when possible. Unfortunately, here in Yukon, I live a thousand kilometres from the closest full-service camera shop, and that has forced me to rely to a great extent on reviewers on-line. This means that despite my best efforts, I have wound up with crappy bags more often than not. Fortunately, about a year ago, I elected to try a Shimoda bag, and it has proven both comfortable, and reasonably versatile. Still, watching your discussion about the limitations of the f-stop bag, highlighted some issues that I have also noted with the Shimoda such as the constricted access to the sides of the ICU when its packed full. I also worry about its durability, especially where the shoulder straps are fixed to the bag at the top. Another camera specific bag that I've heard some good things about is the Atlas Pack, but again, without being able to try something in advance, you have to rely on the experiences of others. Anyway, the Shimoda is working pretty well for me for now. Anyway, I agree with your thoughts on cost--add the word "camera" to almost anything and it feels like a license to double the price. Perhaps the military bag option is worth trying out one day. Thanks again for what really felt like an honest look at backpacks. I wish more reviewers would provide constructive critiques rather than simply pointing out the good points. Thanks again.

[@p.cowart7286]

I bought one of the LowPro bags because of watching your videos. Perfect for me. Thanks!

[@aracnoloco]

Very cool and useful experience insights. Thanks. I did similar regarding transporting systems for tree-climbing gear. All that exists on the market specifically made for arborists does not work if you are hiking through muddy tropical rainforest terrain to the tree(s) you have to climb and survey. So I started to use good hiking rucksacks, which are more comfortable, adjustable and have space more than only my tree climbing gear. Today I use a 70 + 10 L hiking rucksack with a big frontloading option. Cheers.

[@WalkIntoTheWild]

You should start your own range of backpacks. I was looking for such product and still not able to find it. I am glad you made this video, it was very much needed.

[@seabreezeof]

A true and honest perspective on bags, The Bergans Powerframe 130 you settled on still has the straps in the mud when you set it down. These wont, take a serious look at Shimoda ACTION X70, Osprey KAMBER, Gregory TARGHEE , Mystery Ranch. or look for larger bags with those companies....Enjoy all your Expeditions/Outings, stay safe my friend.

[@christianheld9720]

Seriously this video came at the right time. My Thinktank has given up the ghost and am looking for something to hold all my digital and analogue camera gear and accessories

[@zenphotojourney]

I've had similar problems trying to find a pack to carry camera and tripod along with batteries for trailcams and camera trapping equipment. Then add water emergency kit, extra clothes etc and I just haven't found a good solution yet. I like the idea of the ICU units. I'd been looking at tactical bags but didn't know how I'd make those work for camera gear. Now I may have a solution. Thanks Morton. Your content is always good. Even my daughter who isn't a photographer enjoys your videos.

[@katharinemovertonphotographer]

Found your video very interesting I use camping/outdoor bags on my wheelchair always adapting it. Gave up on Camera bags long time ago as they did not last as you said to expensive, Enjoy your time in the photo blind.

[@MaxWildlifePhotographer]

I would love to watch you pack up your loadout into the bags. Adding the bushcraft element into a camera bag is fascinating to me.

[@fenlandwildlifeclips]

I muddle along with a second hand lowepro it's not perfect but it does the job. Mine is very similar to your lilac bag. Fantastic advice to shop local. Good for you.

[@hungrybearphotography]

I'm pretty satisfied with my bags but Morten, i really can watch every video from you just talking about whatever you want because you are such a calming dude. really love your videos and work. and can't wait for your upcoming (gear) videos :)

[@LiamFyfe]

I also have not used a ‘camera specific’ bag for a long time… you could not be more correct about the carrying system being super important! Even just commuting or anything in life a good bag with a sturdy back and good shoulder straps makes life just better! I also love your ethics on supporting a local shop over ebay or Amazon, so refreshing to hear

[@kennyb556]

Have you ever looked into any Mystery Ranch packs? I ended up going with a 3-zip style mystery ranch with an ICU inside. I can just zip down the center and filet open the whole pack to access all the camera gear.

[@tobiasbuschbacher3242]

Dear Morten. What a great video! I came up with the same ideas some time ago. I sold my photography backpacks and bought a Patagonia Cragsmith 45L. It is very good quality, and together with a cheap ICU from Amazon it makes a super photo bag for day trips with the big lens or, with a smaller ICU for traveling. For Hiking I gave up to hope for Photography companys to make a good pack. I have a Exped Thunder 70, witch also opens up at the front. It is made for hiking and can take a Camera - perfekt!

[@andrewgaffney4881]

I’ve been searching for a camera backpack for a while now. Being former military, I was looking at military backpacks too, I just haven’t found one yet that I like. Kudos for sharing your professional opinion.

[@SnoopySenpai]

I love these videos! Very helpful for beginning wildlife photographers!

[@greggorter]

Outstanding advice Morten, your honesty and straight forward approach to this subject is great 👍 thank you 🙏🏿

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Hey Morten, Great bag video and so many thoughts that are similar to my own, having experienced many many many camera bags and other bags, only a few ever hit the spot for what I need. Lowepro do some internal divider ICU units however they are mostly the smaller size for max a 300mm 2.8 etc, but I hope we will see more of these soon, the F stop stuff I agree seems overpriced for what is largely a slightly padded cube! Great video with some top class take homes...I might have to talk people through some of the...maybe 30+ bags I have, because there is certainly value for the community here! As well as the designers watching!

[@longrifle.]

Camera back packs do one thing and one thing only carry lenses and bodies. There are few that have provisions or room for anything else. And even fewer that can accommodate big glass (500 f4 size). That number decreases even more when you add big glass, with lens hood attached in the shooting position, and living out of that pack for days. Hiking packs have the room but are often brightly colored, lightly constructed, usually top loading ect. Like Morten I reverted to a military pack for the basis of my build. Modularity is a must, one pack that does it all! (So to speak.) Adding or deleting mission specific gear as needed, sometimes hourly, meant MOLLE was also a must. Ex. a Molle handcuff case is great for screw on filters. Or hang a solar panel and charge on the go from the Molle. No one wants to stuff a wet and muddy rain coat into the same fleece lined compartment as tens of thousands of dollars of cameras/lenses. On a $700 back pack, because there is no where else to put it. With Molle you can put essentials in a smaller day type pack and attach that to the Mother pack. Within seconds you have downsized 80%, the possibilities are endless. LowePro or F Stop never has or will make anything like that. Both mfj's would wonder why you would need to carry an axe and your camera gear. So if your wanting to cary more than just your camera gear stop looking at gear reviews and shopping for commercial photography packs. Go military with an ICU type body/lens case. Then build out from there for YOUR needs. You can buy high end mil packs for what mid range photo packs cost!

[@creativeminded11]

Hi Morten, thanks for the detailed review. You might want to take a look at the Atlas Adventure pack from Atlas packs. It's a 60 liter pack made in Amerika with a full backside opening and a very good frame and hip belt. Actually more build like a hiking bag first then a photography bag. The volume of the camera compartment can be changed trough an origami adjuster (check the site to see how this works). Works really wel. It also has a lid, an extendable main compartment for camping gear and convenient side pockets for a tripod and water. I think it will fit your 800mm without a problem and still leave room for camping equipment. It also has Molle parts for extentions. It's not cheap but has lifelong guarantee (which I tested) and the owner of the company is very helpful and might even be able to think along for your specific needs. The bag is able to compress and extend based on your needs. It will not match the volume of your largest military bag, but for shorter trips outside of winter it might be perfect. It also fits in the overhead if not stuffed to full! Kind regards, Koen

[@creativeminded11]

I forgot to add that I'm 205cm and 100 kilo myself and it fits me well, it comes in different torso lenght sizes

[@steviebye1]

Don't worry Morten, you're never boring. Great video, thanks. I have been looking for a new bag as my equipment has grown.

[@jimmobley533]

Great video. I have been looking for the perfect bag for a while now and came to the same conclusion. I am using the Fstop ICU with my Evergoods bags, which I love.

[@senseo2848]

i´m very happy with the Snigeldesign 100l from Sweden, an absolute beast when it comes to carry heavy loads.

[@andre.emme.photography9901]

Thank you so much! I didnÄt find any other good source with advice abouot options with which I would be able to hike and do wildlife photography. I tried different options, beeing disappointed with each and every one of them. And I always asked myself how to make customize my own without knowing needlework. But this gave me some great inspirations!

[@lavapix]

I had the 2010 version of the F-Stop Tilopa and used it for everything for 8 years. It never fit me perfectly but damn that bag held a ton of stuff and it was all easy to access. It had two side pockets that could hold two 1-liter SmartWater bottles each. That was great for the 20+ miles adventures. Now the MindShift DayLight 18L is my daily use bag. The Micro 4/3 system fits nicely in it. I use to Frankenstein regular hiking bags too. I still have them. A huge Cabelas backpack for multi day trips and an old Mountainsmith Approach 40L for shorter outings. Both using FStop cubes.

[@stevensakic4342]

Thank You . Great video . I have purchased Lowepro 650 AW , as I do have 600Mm lens with Nikon 850 and 500 , and I do carry also my Hasselblad . The bag is great it holds all my gear that I need for the day. The bag can hold all my heavy gear or go light for my landscape photography.

[@ninoca782]

Always high quality video filled by a lot of smart and helpful suggestions! Thank you @Morten Hilmer

[@gallgallj.a.vernesvernes33]

I love the interesting video about the backpack’s. You take the time to tell the in’s and out’s of all the backpack’s and that’s great info. I self have the lowepro 450AW and i love it, but that’s what’s all about the person. Gr. Jan

[@Rob.1340]

Thank you. Lots of good advice to think on. All the very best. 👍📷😎

[@mableannelliott5392]

Thank you for all of the experienced advice.

[@danw4930]

Thanks for taking time to do this video! I have wasted a mountain of money over the years and I agree with you about military gear. I may do another pass at getting new setup that will fit everything I like to do and do it QUIETLY. Velcro closures are a really dumb thing for anyone trying to get close to nature. Silent clips make an enormous difference along with molle loops for building out the kit. A good internal frame with a proper waist belt and torso fit is essential. Thanks again for a stellar job on the video. I certainly needed the inspiration!

[@kendrickl.buchan7271]

I don't even owned any DSLR camera or a backpacks, however, I still loved watching your videos because I really love wildlife photography 😊

[@Black3ternity]

Thank you for this video. I am a hobby photographer that just goes on hikes and regular weekend-trips. Nothing major, no expeditions and adventures. But you hit the nail on the head. I wanted an Fstop bag but the price is just way too harsh. I got a cheaper Lowepro that fits my gear ever so nicely but there is just no room for anything else. I will 100% check out your information about how to get my own backpack or at least how to consider my future choices. Keep up the nice work. I always appreciate the content and the relaxing atmosphere you provide.

[@885wc]

what a video Morten! please do an in-depth review of the Savotta Jaakari backpack. I wonder if it makes any sense for hiking a bit and shooting from blinds and jeeps.

[@stevensakic4342]

Great Video. Thank you Morten . You just Solved my problems, with camera Backpacks. I do use My Lowepro 650aw. but since I got a hip replacement I like to use camera Backpack that can carry only one lens 600mm. and batteries for the camera. . Very nice to see your videos and letting us know on your ideas on what works and what doesn"t . Thank you again.

[@rodlara7410]

Morten my favorite youtuber and photographer

[@jzsanchez]

Wow, thank u. Great reviews.

[@Izizizhus]

Thank you Morton for such detailed insights. I love it. It’s very inspiring thinking out of the box from the commercial offers. Improve the versatility. The best is as always with Morton, the honesty. I just love the down to earth comments. No tricks ever.

[@pascalthiebaud]

Oh yes we got the point, thanks for all these advices.

[@marvinspates924]

Thank you my friend for your excellent experiences with backpacks! Great food for thought!👍👍👍

[@marvinspates924]

I think you are a scam my friend! Morten would not send a message like this!!!🤔🤔🤔

[@salomekruger4176]

Thank you for your very good advice. There are so many things one needs to consider before buying a photobag that will not suit your body and needs in the end.

[@GriffinOtte]

Really awesome video! I'm a product design student doing research for my senior thesis project and this is exactly the type of user background I have needed. Thank you for all of the insight!!

[@carstenpusch4480]

Thanks a lot, very interesting to hear about your expeareances. 😃👍

[@svseaglobe]

Thanks!

[@ChadSolomon]

The advice in this video is next level. I'm looking to do multi-day hikes, and camera bags don't have the storage for anything beyond camera gear, even with the marketing claims. With a custom made, I could take the ICU out and carry that on the plane.

[@SoundArtMagic]

another excellent video. i do that same thing for field recording, using a hiking backpack with bags for microphones inside. soooo much easier to carry and also good for hiking/camping equipment. also, much more durable

[@jhonnybakkenphotography]

Thanks for your excellent video, I'm so happy to hear you talk about making your own backpack, or adapting outdoor backpacks for your own needs. Ever since I started on my photography journey in 2020, don't have so many years of experience as you, but still, I've dreamed of a professional photo back. Due to the extremely high prices it's still a dream, but a fading one. I knew I wanted a opening in the back, and I wanted a kind of frame. in addition to my camera gear I also wanted to bring some food, and extra clothing. I've ended up adapting a mountain hike backpack from Mammut. I manage to try it on in a local sport outlet so i know it would fit my back. It's just 30 liter, as I don't have as big lenses as you, and so far just one camera. This backpack rig costed me about 1600 Nkr, and that includes a cheap ICU I found here in Norway, an affordable price compared to my other choices. So far it's been amazing, no problem and no breakdown so reasonably durable I would say. I found spare locks I can mount in the field, always carry some spare ones in my backpack, but so far none of the original have broken. So if anyone are looking for a camera backpack, but feel they are a bit pricey, dot' be afraid to take a look in your local outdoor outlet. The knowledge and help you can get there can save you from a lot of pain and disappointments later. And beside, a camera backpack are a much more tempting subject for thieves, as we all know they contains expensive gear. Who want to steal some smelly sock , some used underwear or your leftovers from your last camp fire? It's not advisable to tell everyone what you have in your backpack.

[@4-MinuteMiles]

very thorough thank you I need something that won't fall apart when i am halfway round the world. Lots of good ideas here.

[@facchinophoto]

Great video, Morten! I don't capture wildlife, but I've been on the trails capturing runners for over 24 years and I too am frustrated with the lack of functionality vs look on the newer bags. I've been using a Lowepro Pro Trekker 400 AW for 12 years and it's at the end of its trekking days. Not really that happy with what Lowepro has these days and searching alternatives, but not happy with what I'm finding.

[@Terry4413]

Thank you for this. I would be very interested in survival items you carry. First aid, communications etc.

[@ralph_wood]

Thank you Morten! I hope f-stop and Lowepro are paying attention.

[@XlogicXX]

I concur 100%. Military backpacks are awesome for wildlife photographers. They are way more functional and durable than the typical camera backpacks. I've been using the Eberlestock mid-size (front load) backpack for the past couple years and it's been great.

[@MeAMuse]

I dont carry nearly as much as you, but I definitely have the same sentiment about bags. Most dedicated photography bags are overpriced and generally dont actually work that well once you get them into the outdoors. For example, I use an Osprey Stratos 36L for hiking. It fits my 100-400 very nicely in its case in the bottom section and then I have a camera insert I use for another 2 lenses. It then has plenty of room for everything I want with me for the hike. Even some of the dedicated camera bags I often alter (adding straps, molle pockets, removing velcro, etc.). Weirdly... I also bought that XL F-stop camera cube but not to go into any bag. It fits all of my (and my wife's) camera gear and actually fits in a plane overhead. It fits 4 cameras (2 full frame, 2 APSC), 5 zooms, 5 primes and my teleconverter. It then is effectively my base camp storage area. My general advice is to work out what you want to carry then look at options for how you make that happen. There are plenty of places you can order from that have free returns... Take advantage of that.

[@duncanwallace7760]

I have a Deuter hiking day-pack which I've used for more than 10 years because none of the camera bags as good. I've been wanting to get one where I can carry a tripod as well, but didn't think of the military bags, which would have all the webbing to attach things! Definitely a good idea instead of the super exe camera bags!

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

14:10 Very important feature for me. I live in the desert so it's cactus needles, not mud that I don't want on the side that goes against my back. I have had to eliminate lots of potential bp's just because this is feature #1 for me. I ended up a with really cheap Amazon pack for $35. But it does work for me. If I ever get a 400mm (I'll never afford a 600) I will have to maybe upgrade. A Frankenstein, that was funny.

[@AliasJimWirth]

Which pack did you get from Amazon, if you don't mind saying?

[@JeffMaron-gi6rd]

Thank you so much for your review of different bags! I absolutely agree with you Morten regarding your assessment of photo bags. I currently use an expedition backpack and insert 2 smaller photo backpacks inside it for longer trips. If I just go for a quick trip I remove the 2 photo backpacks and clip them together as one. Comfort, camera access and capacity is what I look for in a pack. Again, thank you so much for your views on different packs. When I need a new pack I will definitely be looking at your suggestions.

[@MrEmoor]

I wish I had seen this video before I purchased the Tenba back pack I currently have. My son gave me a beautiful backpack he was issued when he was in the US Army and it is perfect for this! I will still use it like you suggest, but I could have saved myself some money. Great video!!

[@wheelhousewatch]

Finally...... someone who owns more camera bags than me. I was starting to worry 😊

[@rogerirwin7293]

Thank You Morten, I have struggled with finding a good pack. I have had 3 lowepro's like you have and have worn them out. The last one was good except the mane zipper went and Lowepro does not stand behind the zipper ,they said find a luggage repair person. That was not something that was cheap to fix so I trashed it and settled on the Fstop Tilopia bag, which now that I am older I carry less stuff with me. Z9 with 500 pf and a D500 with 300pf and a couple smaller lenses. I have the same problem as you fitting lenses in the side pockets of the ICU, its a struggle. Especially reaching behind me to pull them out when in my fishing kayak with just one hand, they catch on the edge of the bag!

[@tomdearie5165]

Thanks for the info, Morten. Since you carry that big 12lb Bergans, you might find the Kuiu ultralight hunting packs interesting. The 7800 is 127L but only 6lbs when empty - barely more than my 80L FStop Shin. It’s got attachment points on the frame that can be repurposed to attach an ICU (I’m adding two more points for added stability). Suspension system has robust lumbar support and is rated for 150lb loads. Lots of expansible pockets and attachment points on the outside for adaptation. FOr shorter hops, it has 3 way compression so that it can be compressed down to the size of a day bag. I bought it because my Shin was not cutting it as an expedition bag.

[@laku4412]

That's some very interesting thoughts! I'm not entirely happy with my bags either, so thank you so much for the inspiration!

[@nogroove3819]

Again. Great video. I would be curious to see how you l add your icu’s. I have number of photo bags as nd have a hard time configuring to fit my 200-600 zoom along with a 2nd body and couple of lenses.

[@AliasJimWirth]

A fine video with some really good advice. I try to shop my local camera stores, too. I too do not want to see them disappear. I value the in person information and help you can't get remotely, and as you say, you can see the items and try them out to get the right one for you. Thank you.

[@hauer54]

Very interesting video, Morton. What I would find interesting too is the process of what you go through when travelling i.e. by air to your wildlife destination. Do you send it in advance as cargo, take it in the aircraft cabin, check it in as normal cargo? What arrangements do you make / take. Thank you!

[@traderjoe477]

I just discovered the Terraframe 80 from Mystery Ranch. That Backpack is awesome. Has a ton of space and gives you easy access to your camera gear.

[@andrejvarmecky88]

I have had trouble with loud clips before. You can clip them quieter if as you are clipping them together you put your fingers in the two "holes" in the clip and as you feel the other clip coming in you slowly take them off.

[@Volthan]

Thank you for this. I've been thinking about a rather permanent solution for my analogue camera set up. As it's always the same set, I considered doing a custom foam cut out for it all. It's sadly a little more fragile than more modern equipment and there for I've been hesitant. After watching your video, I'm thinking about "frankensteining" an ICU. get the right sizes for all lenses, filters, etc. Laser cut the foam and just fill them. That way I could adapt, depending on each trip, and fill it into my hiking set up.Thank you for making me aware. If you got any comments on that, feel free to shoot them at me. I kinda drove myself into a corner where I'm so scared to mess up my equipment, that it really hinders my work flow. It's all rather hard to get any spare parts at this point, but I don't want to be hesitant about taking it to the field. It's a tool after all.

[@borjamendezfoto]

There is a lot of good advice here, specially when you say you have to make things work for you. I've gone through so many different setups and I find it funny that we as a community have reached the same conclusions: regular hiking/nature packs are nicer and more comfortable but taking out the camera is a hard task.

[@claudiocomi-k7d]

thank you ! i also go with custom backpack, but this video is great and gave me new ideas!

[@lyndons.grondiano6654]

Thank you for sharing sir Morten

[@David-rc8fb]

Brilliant Video, I am sure we all have tried and tested Bags galore, hidden in cupboards no longer being used? Keep well and Stay safe. 👍🇬🇧

[@saifismailalhosani]

Dear Morten,I watched the whole video and i enjoyed your tips,I live in the middle east,In the desert,So my needs are a medium bag and strong bag that can withstand hot and desert weather. Thank you for the tips!