New camera bag suggestion?

Hi all.

I recently bought a new lens, the Sigma 180 Macro. Right now my main photo bag is a Tamrac (wish I could remember the model...). I really like it because it is not as big as my Lowepro Mini-Trekker. It is a shoulder bag. Currently I have my D70 body in it, 70-210 f4, Tamron 24-135, Nikkor 55 micro, and SB-800 flash. I really don't think the 180 macro will fit in it. Maybe if I leave that lens mounted on the body. I also have a few small assorted items in the bag as well as a filter pouch that fits in an outside pocket.

Does anyone have any ideas of a bag that would do me well? Do I just need to eliminate a lens or accessory?

Thanks in advance!

Nathan

Nathan, I'm assuming you're looking for something between the Tamrac and Mini-Trekker (otherwise the Mini sounds like a great way to go). I have seen the new LowePro DryZone Rover and looks like it may be a good fit for you. I have not tried it myself though.

Guy

Nathan, are you looking for another shoulder bag or backpack?

Usually the shoulder bags seem to fit better just by their size. I think I would like another shoulder bag. I usually throw my backpack in on trips, but I like the relatively small size of my Tamrac shoulder bag.

I am thinking that my Tamrac is something along the lines of an Explorer 4 (or 5).

Nathan

I won the Vested Interest vest with my 2005 EP, and I have to tell you it's the best thing you can imagine! Pockets for everything you can think of, and fully loaded down it's so comfortable. I used to have a shoulder bag (a small one) and found it uncomfortable and awkward. With the vest, everything is easily accessible. I have a camera bag that I store my camera in when not in use, but I usually carry it on the tripod while wearing the vest in the field. They make a few different models, and have extra pockets you can add on that will hold large lenses.

I'm not familiar with the Explorer 4 & 5, and didn't see them on the Tamrac site. I'm currently using the precursor of the Model 608. I find that it is just barely large enough for most any use I have, although it's close sometimes. I have to pick and choose what I put in based on what my plans are. Also, I never put my camera in there, just lenses, meters, batteries, and all the little junk I carry. Still, it gets so darn heavy after a day of slogging that it feels like I'm carrying an anvil sometimes. Even with the weight I prefer it to my LowePro Mini-Trekker because it's so much easier to access my stuff. I really doubt that it would be large enough for your needs though - you might want to look at the 610 or 612 (and a caddy to carry it).

I recently bought a Pelican PCS 145. It holds one pro body with a lens attached, and three additionals lenses, flash, extra battery, etc. I carry a 1D MkII N, with EF 70-200 f2.8 L IS attached, a 24-70 f/2.8 L, a 16-35 f/2.8 L, and a 180 Macro L. I can also carry a flash and bracket, a TC, extra cards and batteries, and there is a lashing on the bottom (side) to carry a tripod. It has bellows pockets on either end to carry additional lenses or what have you. It is both a top-loader and a side access back, and can be configured to carry as a shoulder bag or a backpack. I think I paid about $80 for it at the local retail shop. Here is a link to check it out online:

http://www.caseclub.com/pelican-pcs145.htm

This shows several different views, including the case packed in a normal Pelican hard case (not included).