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In Search Of: The Perfect Camera Bag

Classic Canon Camera Backpack

For years I’ve used the basic Canon Deluxe Backpack 200EG to haul around my camera gear. The classic green and black Canon branded backpack has been around forever and for good reason. It’s rather inexpensive (under $50) and it has a lot of great features and it easily fits under an airplane seat.

What’s to like about this bag?

  • Lots of storage spots and pockets
  • Large front pocket
  • Fits under an airplane seat (if you don’t overfill)
  • Inexpensive
  • I can slip my Chromebook in the front pocket.

What I don’t like about the Deluxe Backpack 200EG

On my last trip to San Diego, I ended overfilling this bag with heavy lens which really made it tough walking all over Torrey Pine State Park and Balboa Park. There are lots of storage pockets but they are very deep so you forget what is in them. Also, the front is very easy to fill up with a book, tablet, sweater – it quickly becomes bulky.

The webbing on the front is iffy. I lost a back pillow after shoving it in there. It just ends up getting caught under airplane seats.

The two side pockets I don’t trust to stay closed since they are just velcro so I never end up using them. I also don’t like the tripod straps on the bottom. Also it gets a bit saggy with all the gear in it when the zippers are open.

Also once a lens popped out of my bag, a Canon 17-35mm L lens – boom right on to the pavement because the zippers had loosened up. Luckily the lens survived because it hit the lens hood, bounced and rolled down the parking lot. So now I always close the zippers together with a caribiner.

The Canon bag has a lot going for it but basically, I’m looking for something similar but more streamlined and a little less bulky. If you’ve been doing as much airplane travel that I’ve been doing lately, you’ll appreciate packing lighter.

Lowepro M-Trekker BP 150 Camera Backpack

I check out this bag at the camera store and I think its a winner. The design keeps all of your expensive gear against your back so it can’t be stolen on the subway or in a crowd. It’s also less likely to fall out.

The low profile design keeps the bulk down and allows it shove under an airplane seat easily without anything snagging. The front pocket is great for the Chromebook, keys, wallet, passport and boarding pass — everything you need when traveling.

Compact backpack with room for a full mirrorless camera kit, up to 12 inch laptop or 13 inch tablet, accessories and more.

  • Discreet design and body-side access safeguards against theft
  • Flexible interior organizes your mirrorless camera equipment
  • CradleFit™ compartment protects up to a 12” laptop or 13” tablet
  • Robust modern fabric options defend against wear and tear
  • All Weather AW Cover™ provides protection from the elements

A modern take on a classic pack designed for mirrorless and more, the m-Trekker BP 150 fuses dedicated body-side access to safeguard against theft and a slim profile designed to securely hug gear. Available in two durable fabrics options, Gray Canvex™ or Black Cordura®, for exceptional durability and weather protection.

All Weather AW Cover™ provides additional protection from the elements while customizable interior offers endless options for gear organization and dedicated protection for up to a 12” laptop or 13” tablet. Great for mirrorless cameras like Canon EOS M10, Sony a7 and Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II. 

– LowePro