Deuter Futura 40 Rucksack as a Camera Bag

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taxboy

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I've been doing some Internet trawling and this backpack has come up a few times. I wondered if anyone is currently using this or similar with camera inserts as a camera bag and could possibly, ease offer their views on usability, ease of access etc

I'm tempted to get new bag (who isn't [emoji16][emoji16]) as I'm finding my Flipside 400 holds my camera gear OK but doesn't leave much space for any extras e.g. lunch, chucking in a layer if it gets warm etc. Additionally I don't find it the most comfortable to carry as the weight seems to be on my shoulders rather than the hip belt.... perhaps it's just me.

The hiking backpack seems a possible solution as I don't really want to spend f stop money on another bag
 
I use something similar with an insert from the Tenba BYOB range.
Mine is a Gregory something or the other and has a proper mesh frame, much better than the bespoke camera rucksacks.
Osprey also make decent bags with a mesh frame that stops your back getting too sweaty and positions the load properly.
Tripod goes in one of the side pockets and held in place by the compression straps.
I also use these https://www.amazon.co.uk/1301652-Reporter-Backpack-System-Connectors/dp/B0010HA68I
Lets the rucksack straps take the weight of the camera rather than my neck, works well for me
 
tijuana taxi said:
I use something similar with an insert from the Tenba BYOB range.
Mine is a Gregory something or the other and has a proper mesh frame, much better than the bespoke camera rucksacks.
Osprey also make decent bags with a mesh frame that stops your back getting too sweaty and positions the load properly.
Tripod goes in one of the side pockets and held in place by the compression straps.
I also use these https://www.amazon.co.uk/1301652-Reporter-Backpack-System-Connectors/dp/B0010HA68I
Lets the rucksack straps take the weight of the camera rather than my neck, works well for me
Click to expand...
Thanks for the input. Does your bag only have access from the top ? Presumably this doesn't cause issues in accessing your gear ?
 
taxboy said:
Thanks for the input. Does your bag only have access from the top ? Presumably this doesn't cause issues in accessing your gear ?
Click to expand...

Not really, I get the camera out and hang it from the straps I mentioned or other times use a wrist strap.
I don't change lenses very often, more of a zoom person so not constantly diving in and out of the bag.

I do have a camera specific rucksack that is quite small and light too. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tenba-Solstice-Backpack-Casual-Daypack/dp/B077SQJQ1Y
Dividers can be moved and mine is split 50/50 between camera and personal gear, waterproof gets strapped to the front.
 
taxboy said:
I don't find it the most comfortable to carry as the weight seems to be on my shoulders rather than the hip belt.... perhaps it's just me.
Click to expand...

I think a proper hiking bag is essential if you're carrying a lot of kit and/or are looking to care for your back. I started out with a Dakine Poacher + insert and began my search with a Googling of "rear opening backpacks" so that you can drop the bag and open it to access your gear easily. Be sure to take note of the size measurements of the bag to get a good idea of what space you'll have. This will depend on the equipment you normally carry, but you can use your Flipside as a guide. Mountaineering/Skiing packs often have attachments for adding poles & skis which double nicely as tripod holders. I think the Poacher was a 40L pack which didn't leave a lot of room with the padded insert. With hindsight I should have gone for 60L.

I bought an el-cheapo camera insert bag off eBay. It wasn't pretty but it protected my gear and segregated it in the pack from waterproofs, lunch, etc. It was convenient that I could remove it from the bag too.

I recently bought an Atlas Adventure (camera) pack which has a huge amount of room, but importantly, is really secure on my back, settling the weight on my hips. It's so much more comfortable over long distances or with heavy gear. It's been hammered in the 2 years I've had it and still looks good as new. Expensive yes, but worth every penny.
 
I just remembered I have a Manfrotto Off Road 30 too. That is pretty comfortable with mesh but it has side access for camera gear which (being a prime lens shooter) I find a bit awkward. It comes with a removable ICU
 
I use mainly a Futura 26 if I just have a DSLR and extra lens. The camera and extra lens are in an insert in the top compartment. Plenty of room under the main compartment for waterproofs etc and the side and lid pockets provide space for various items. I also use a Futura 28 with a bigger insert when carrying more photo gear. The Futura 28 is a panel opener and a little more convenient with extra lenses than the top-loading Futura 26. One issue with the Futura range is that the sprung "Aircomfort" back reduces volume in the backpack so there is less front-to-back room than packs using other back systems. You may wish to also take a look at the Deuter Freerider Pro 30 which has a zippable back. Andy Mumford uses/used one with a suitable insert
 
I have spent thousands on camera bags - mostly based on you tubers' recommendations that each was, once and for all, the right mix of functionality and comfort

but if I'm going to be carrying gear for more than an hour (or less if I'm taking a few lenses) I always reach for my Stratos 36

I can walk for hours with that fully loaded and be fresh as a daisy

it is top loading but I have yet to find a side loading one which fits me as well

all the load on my hips

Review
 
dja said:
I use mainly a Futura 26 if I just have a DSLR and extra lens. The camera and extra lens are in an insert in the top compartment. Plenty of room under the main compartment for waterproofs etc and the side and lid pockets provide space for various items. I also use a Futura 28 with a bigger insert when carrying more photo gear. The Futura 28 is a panel opener and a little more convenient with extra lenses than the top-loading Futura 26. One issue with the Futura range is that the sprung "Aircomfort" back reduces volume in the backpack so there is less front-to-back room than packs using other back systems. You may wish to also take a look at the Deuter Freerider Pro 30 which has a zippable back. Andy Mumford uses/used one with a suitable insert
Click to expand...
Thanks for that. This will be for days out and I don't really need vast amounts of storage I guess the most will be my 7Dii, 10-22, 17-50 and 70-200 plus the usual batteries, memory card etc. I think a panel loader will suit me best to save rummaging around or lifting everything out to gain access. I'm really prioritising comfort over ultimate photographic storage but also would like space for lunch, extra layer etc
 
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