Backpacking with SLR and accessories

[jssmith57]

I've always used a "point and shoot" type digital camera when backpacking. Just keep it in my pocket and take it out and shoot.  I've now moved up to a Cannon XTi.  I'm heading out to Arkansas later this week to backpack the OHT and hopefully get some shots of some waterfalls and wildflowers along the way.  Does anyone have any special tips or tricks that would make carrying the camera, lenses, tripod etc when backpacking less of a burden?  I have a generic camera gear bag and I'm thinking about either just letting it hang from my sternum strap or neck or just attaching it to the back of the pack. I'm thinking this will be very uncomfortable.  Are there any camera bags that work well when backpacking available?  Thanks for your help.

[randell]

I hiked the about 20 miles on and off trail over 3 days with both my DSLR and  Point and Shoot.  I also had my tripod and some filters along.  I attached both cameras to the waist strap of my backpack.  The DSLR pouch I used was the LowePro Rezo TLZ 20 that I picked up for $20.  I just stuck the bag with my filters, etc in the top of my pack and slid my tripod in any free spot in the pack.

[Casa Grande]

Lowepro has the best gear for backpacking with an SLR/Camera gear.  The designers actually test the products out themselves on the trail and constantly refine it for ergonomic/practical reasons.  I have used 3 different types of Lowepro packs.....the backpack, the front loader and now my favorite is the Slingshot.  YOu can check out their stuff at www.lowepro.com.  Don't buy them at your local camera store, they are pricey.  Order them from one of the ebay stores, you'll save a bundle!

david

[Doc Savage]

Back in my backpacking days I used a Kiwi zoom holster on my hip belt for my A1 and zoom. I like the Lowepro stuff also. I have a couple of their bags I picked up when I worked at Wolf Camera.

Robert

[presidio]

I'm heading out to Arkansas later this week to backpack the OHT
Does anyone have any special tips or tricks that would make carrying the camera, lenses, tripod etc when backpacking less of a burden?

Employ an Arkie sherpa?

[jssmith57]

Thanks for the ideas.  Those LowePro bags look great.  I'll probably try to pick one up tonight.  I'm heading up the in the morning and I'll let yall know how it goes when I get back.