I have a Canon Rebel T5 with the included 18-55 IS lens, plus an older 100-300 IS Ultrasonic lens from when I had a Elan film camera.
The main reason why I bought the camera is to take along with me on day hikes...1-4 hours out in the forests around where I live in Ontario, Canada. But I've started to see other opportunities to get out there with the camera, and I'm wondering what bag(s) I need to carry my camera safely and conveniently. Fewer bags the better.
For hiking I purchased a cotton carrier strapshot (attaches to my backback). I haven't used it yet, but it seems useful for hiking when I have the pack. I'm not sure I like the included handstrap though. I have about 10 days to return this for a refund if I choose to go with another approach (see below, as I may pick up another style of bag that I could also use when hiking).
In addition to hiking, I may use my camera as follows:
- short walks around the forest hiking trails near my house (I don't need a backpack with gear for these hikes that average an hour)
- cycling: I ride 3-4 times a week and I thought I might want to bring the camera with me on 1-2 of those rides...with the idea of pulling it out when the lighting is good and I want to take some pictures. I usually ride a road bike, though it's around forests, farm lands, etc. Lots of landscape opportunities when the sun is rising.
This morning I used my wifes optex bag with a strap that I slung across my chest. It felt comfortable, but is too small for my camera, and there is no chance of carrying the 100-300 lens.
I'm thinking I want a bag similar to my wife's bag, but with extra space for the additional lens and a bit of extra space for a filter or two, and maybe a ziplock bag if it rains. Not sure what to do with the bike...I could get a handlebar bag, use a camelbak that has enough room...and lastly, I'm not sure if I could get one bag that I could use when hiking (attached to my backpack, but removeable) and my short walks without backpack.
Thoughts?