Backpack camera bag "mod"

[juliachaos]

I have a pretty compact 3L pack which has just enough room for a second 2L bladder in another pocket. This leaves just enough room for a few snacks, first aid, extra batteries, etc, in two other small pockets, but no room for my dSLR! Usually it's not a problem, as I can just strap the camera to my front, but when I want to take it on hikes that involve a bit of climbing it becomes an issue. I tried hooking my camera to my pack in an assortment of ways that involved caribiners and straps, but the weight was always pulling me off-center or the camera would jump forward if I leaned over or lunged.. not good! So I took my pack and camera to the Hiking Shack and they solved my problem! Solution: strap and tie a durable bag with a drawstring to the back of my pack. The weight is perfectly distributed and doesn't shift, I've got lots of elbow room/extra room for when I'm negotiating rock walls, the camera doesn't swing or flip forward anymore, and it's easy to access! I can now take my beloved camera out on those tougher hikes without worrying. Yay for Hiking Shack and their helpful creativity!

[oceanwithin]

hmm, this is really cool, I have the same problem with my DSLR & hydration pack. a trip to the hiking shack may be in order...!

[joebartels]

It's cool you found what worked for you. Here was my speed-access setup viewtopic.php?p=25840#p25840

[juliachaos]

@oceanwithin
I got to field test the setup this weekend, rappelling into East Clear Creek, climbing around rocks and such, and then climbing back out.. twice. I barely even noticed that it was there when I didn't need it, and it didn't take long to get it out or put it back in. I wear the strap slung around the right side of my neck and under the left arm. That keeps a good amount of tension on the bag itself to prevent swinging, and also prevents the camera from falling when I take it out. A little bit of padding in the bag also helps should the bag bump against anything.. overall it seems to work great!

@joe bartels
I had been playing with a similar setup, but with the climbing I've done on Mazatzal Peak, 'reverse' Flatiron, and Four Peaks, I was afraid that having it anywhere in front of my arm would throw off my balance too much as I wouldn't be able to hug the rock as close. That's a great easier-access solution though for all other times. Neat thread, I like seeing what others are doing to solve this problem!