Mocky-

I chose the Lowepro AllWeather Rover II. Very similar to the Tamrac Adventure series.
AW Rover II from Lowepro

The Lowepro has a tripod holder built into the pack itself, and the weather cover pulls out from a compartment underneath.

Unfortunately, I thought the Tamrac Adventure 5/6 too small, and the 9 too big with the laptop case. The store didn't have a 7 or 8 in stock. I have a friend with the AW Rover and was able to put my stuff in it. It all fit, and I ordered the newer version.

Since it will be my pack when I'm traveliing, the top half is an open compartment. I liked that better than the Lowepro Expedition series which, for me, was a little overkill.

 

The AW Rover II works for me because it allows a bit more flexibility to carry other non-camera stuff.

That said, I'll be going Tamrac next I think as I've heard good things about them and they look very good quality.

 

I am v pleased with mine.

Incidentally I also have the small Lowepro Graham mentioned (also a freebie with a mag sub ) - its good for day trips where I just want minimal kit ie my 20d and a couple of lenses, with other non photo stuff in the top. But when I go out for to take photos - the Tamrac meets all my needs I am also taking it as my hand luggage when we go to South Africa in December.

 

I'll agree as well. I actually liked the look of the Tamrac and the quality for the few days before I returned it was good.

As a friend of mine said - if you buy a big bag, you're going to fill it. Using a smaller bag forces you to think about what you're taking and make decisions.

 

ha ha, so true. With my big backpack, I carry everything with me, even if I know I don't need it on a particular photoshoot...