Backpack for 11x14 Camera

[Jay Wolfe]

Can anyone recommend a backpack that will carry an 11x14 camera and a modicum of accessories? Please don’t recommend a baby jogger. I’m only interested in backpacks.

[Vaughn]

I use this brand (Trekker II) for 8x10 - a friend uses the Clipper for 11x14.

https://meipacks.myshopify.com/

[esearing]

There is another thread going on for ULF backpacks just a few items down. Why does MEI not show any images of their products other than the front basic? I would like to see if their suspension and straps are adjustable - what inside straps and pockets look like, are there any attachment points. Video reviews are almost non existent and not helpful.

[CreationBear]

There is another thread going on for ULF backpacks just a few items down.

I believe there's at least one ULF'er on the forum who's using what's referred to as a "portage pack," such as is made by Granite Gear:
https://www.campsaver.com/granite-ge...opping_listing
As you can tell, the packbag is the right shape/dimension for big rectangular formats, but I'm not sure the suspension is comparable to what you will find on traditional hiking backpack designs. If you're planning long trips (and aren't unnaturally "yoked," as the kids say) one option might be to buy a pack frame and use it with a cargo panel, with the camera in some variation of an ICU.

[Vaughn]

That is what I use for my 11x14. It is Granite Gear's larger one -- eats my Chamonix and room for several holders, and everything else. Don't know why I forgot -- haven't used the 11x14 in too many months, probably.

Major problem with it if one is tall (long back)...it will still work, but not a great fit. At 6'3" I have to mess with the straps to get it to carry well. A little funky. The suspension of good, not great. As a portage pack, it seems to be designed for hauling bulky equipment relatively short distances comfortably.

MEI packs -- yes...old website. I do not know if contacting the company for more info (or location of local dealers) will help. I ran into the pack while at my local camping/backpacking store. Returned with my 8x10 and checked it all out in person..and bought it. It is more of a travel pack concept (very comfortable on my back) which gives it some features that have come in handy for 8x10 (hide-away side pockets, detachable daypack that fits five 8x10 holders, suspension all hides away for plane use or storage.). I've been using it extensively since about 1996.

Good luck in your search.

[dodphotography]

That is what I use for my 11x14. It is Granite Gear's larger one -- eats my Chamonix and room for several holders, and everything else. Don't know why I forgot -- haven't used the 11x14 in too many months, probably.

Major problem with it if one is tall (long back)...it will still work, but not a great fit. At 6'3" I have to mess with the straps to get it to carry well. A little funky. The suspension of good, not great. As a portage pack, it seems to be designed for hauling bulky equipment relatively short distances comfortably.

MEI packs -- yes...old website. I do not know if contacting the company for more info (or location of local dealers) will help. I ran into the pack while at my local camping/backpacking store. Returned with my 8x10 and checked it all out in person..and bought it. It is more of a travel pack concept (very comfortable on my back) which gives it some features that have come in handy for 8x10 (hide-away side pockets, detachable daypack that fits five 8x10 holders, suspension all hides away for plane use or storage.). I've been using it extensively since about 1996.

Good luck in your search.

MEI is almost an internet ghost... no social media presence , very few first hand reviews anywhere online. Barely any real world use pictures. Odd.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Vaughn]

MEI is almost an internet ghost... no social media presence , very few first hand reviews anywhere online. Barely any real world use pictures. Odd.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Didn't use to be odd. I have never dealt with the company directly...bought their pack from a reliable brick&mortar in about 1996. Know another photographer that uses one for his various ULF cameras he has built...but he might have gone to the portage pack for some.

[MAubrey]

I also use a portage pack for 11x14 with three holders and three lenses. It's big, but it works well.

[Jay Wolfe]

Thanks, guys. I see REI carries some Granite Gear products. I’ll see what I can find there first.

[Chauncey Walden]

Most anything that will fit on a llama or a burro;-)