First post at NSOP. I'm looking for a good bag to house my soon-to-be purchases:

XTi
18-55 IS
nifty fifty
70-300 III
+ goodies (batteries, cables)

I think the 200EG is going to be way too big for this gear. I'd also like to spend less than what the slingshot is going for.

I was also considering the Tamrac Expidition 3, but I like the Lowepro AW cover.

I prefer a backpack/sling over a shoulder. Thanks!!

some of my older pics with P&S cams: http://phatheadwrx.fotopic.net

Welcome to the forums!

What's the budget for the bag? The tamrac pro 5 is a nice small bag that would fit all that.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...amera_Bag.html
$59.95

And, just for reference, I much prefer backpack type bags to sling-type... what do you plan to be doing the most with it? Walking around a city and shooting or hiking? Your bag should fit your planned activities.

And, welcome!

Mostly walking (not hiking). I do like how you can pull the Slingshot under and infront of you for quick access.

I also forgot to mention I want to be sure to have space for a flash down the line.

That pro 5 is also nice, but I'm just not sold on the shoulder sorry jacobsen

As for budget I could spend the $70-80 on the SS 200 AW, but would rather spend that money on something else if I can find another bag for less. At this point, I don't see the need to spend $150+ on a bag.

I have the canon 200eg, it would be plenty of space for that stuff and a little room to grow. Ill try to get a shot of it tonight.

I definately like the 200EG since its pretty cheap. How water resistant is it? How is the padding? Thanks matt.
I just worry that there might be too much room in it and things will be off balance, clanking around.

Heres the 200EG

Thats a 30D w/ BGE2 70-200L f2.8 IS, 2 580 exIIs, 24-70L. The blank spots hold the 17-55 f2.8 IS and another 30D. Lots of pockets and good support.

mountainsmith makes a awesome sling alternative for $90:
http://www.backcountry.com/store/MOU...mera-Pack.html

if you look in the deals section here it came up at one point. The deal is over but the link had a slick video review

actually here's that link:
http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/,...mera-Pack.html
$58 which is a great deal on that bag (I'd buy one if it was black). The video review seems to have gone missing though?

I own a SS 200AW, and it's "okay". The gear you have listed should be fine, but it's miserable if you add any real weight to it. Also, there is only one way to wear it, and not much adjustment. I took mine on a couple lengthy excursions, and my back killed me at the end of the day.
With a real backpack, the weight is distributed more even, and you always have the option of slinging it over one shoulder or the other. Ultimately, the decision is yours, I just thought I'd relate my experience.

In theory, the sling bags are a nice idea. After using one though, it seems like it's a compromise between a backpack and a shoulder bag, but doesn't do well at either. Now, when I travel light, and want quick access, I use a shoulder bag. When I want everything, and still have comfort, I take a backpack. (My wife inherited the SS 200 when she took over the D50.)

that's exactly why I'm designing a bag that has 2 straps, but can work with just one as a sling...

Thanks LateApex, I'm glad you chimed in since I saw you owned one in the Post Your Bag Thread. Your complaints are consistent with all of the reviews I have read, namely that it will make you left shoulder sore if loaded too heavily.

I think I'll end up getting the cheaper 200EG and give me plenty of room to grow. I do love how the cam stays at the top of the backpack for easy access.

I had a Lowepro AW for my old Canon S2 IS and I really loved the "rain cover," but I guess I could just keep a small trash bag in a 200EG as a poncho if the weather turns.

they make rain covers for bags that are universal. I can't remember where I've seen someone say they got one (it was either here, the NASIOC gear thread or PotN), and I've seen them advertised myself. They're basically just like LowePro's covers but you buy them separate and throw them on any old bag and they're like ~$10...

Something to think about, but a trash bag does work for (almost) free. I keep one in my bag because you can always jury rig a "waterproof" shooting bag with one and a rubber band as well.