Kata DR-467i vs Lowepro Fastpack 250/300

[cottonfoo]

'Evening,

I'm after a rucksack that can meet two requirements, something I can use as a carry-on to carry a DSLR, 15.4" laptop and a few gadgets on the plane as well as a daypack that can carry a gore-tex shell and some packed lunch. There isn't much between them on paper or price.

Anyone used both (or either)? The tending toward to the Kata because of the built in tripod holder and weather cover, but I have no idea of build quality of either.

Alternatively if anyone knows of somewhere in central London that stocks both that would be handy, choosing bags online is a pain.

[LaserTam]

I have a Fastpack 300 (well at least I think it is). Great bag, ideal for situations where the camera is in and out lots. However, its perhaps not as good as a ruck sack. It has a waist strap which helps but all the weight is on one shoulder.

Also, I dont think I could get a laptop in mine!

[adamfogerty]

I have the Fastpack 250.

I do miss the tripod straps and all-weather cover, both of which you point out.

But I do like the quick access it provides to the camera - no need to take the backpack off everytime you want to shoot something:

"On the Fastpack series of bags, gear is reached through a clever side-entry zippered compartment. As you trek along, just rotate, unzip, grab your camera and shoot."

(Quote from their web site)



I purchased this bag because like you I was drawn to the "best of both worlds" nature of this type of bag and thought I would utilise the general backpack space for a lightweight coat, lunch, etc. In reality I find myself just putting more photo accessories in this compartment - and unlike a dedicated photo bag anything you put in here is loose and disorganised.

Adam

[cottonfoo]

Cheers all. I'll be spending a fair bit of time outside so the tripod and cover is swaying me a bit. I mostly do landscapes so I'm not too worried about losing the convenience of a quick retrieval. I just wonder if it'll be big enough to carry my lunch

I need to find a stockist, or a seller with a good returns policy ...

[_dobbo_]

I have a Fastpack 350 I've never used (other than to try to fit my camera in and realise it was too small for a 500mm lens). I need to sell it - if you're interested PM me I'll let you have it at a bargain price to save me the hassle of listing it on eBay.

Edit... actually now that I think about it I have used it once when I went to Dubai but it's in near perfect condition.

Edited by _dobbo_ on Thursday 3rd June 11:13

[cottonfoo]

Oh, pm sent

[Eggle]

I have just bought a FlipSide 300 from Morris Photo. They are mail order, but their showroom is 5 mins from my house.
They have offers on at the moment.
I went in this morning and had 5 or 6 out to compare. There were a couple I liked, but went with the Flipside because it is large enough for my needs. ( They say body with 300 lens on, 3 other lenses, flash and bits. I would agree ) It has a tripod holder, but the deal for me is although well padded, flexible and comfortable, it is semi rigid. It stands on its own. Also, from a secure point of view, no one can get at your gear when it is on your back. The opening is cleverly positioned "into you"
Hope this helps!