Tamrac 5574 Expedition 4

For a compact backpack. It's not bad. Very rugged construction. Won't get shredded on a trip through nature. Fit is conformable.

Fits all your gear inside pretty snug. Fully adjustable sections. The main flap pockets are good. They hold memory card etc. The tripod straps are good for a rolled up rain jacket. I slide my tripod into the large loops on either side of the bag. 2 straps on the side keep the bag from opening incase you forget to zip it up.

The zippers are all water resistant. The rain flap on the main zipper can sometimes get in the way.

The best thing on the bag is the SAS Single strap accessory system. You can put custom pouches on the bag. there are 8 loops to attach to.

I customized the bag with a shoulder strap run through 2 of the loops. While wearing it like a shoulder bag with the 2 side strap connected you have enough space to access the bags contents without fully opening it.

Overall for the size the bag is good. Other bags of similar size wouldn't last a day with me outdoors

Rugged construction
SAS Single strap accessory system
Zippers water resistant
Highly customizable

Needs a rain cover

none

Build quality: seams lacks in quality (visible knots) and the interior is too tight (although it can be a plus) up to the point that you have to literally force your camera in. Velcro bands are too rough, can scratch the back of the camera if you don't pay attention (better to have the camera folded in a cloth). Belts to hold the tripod are way too underdimensioned (for my Manfrotto Nat54 tripod). Zip locks are stiff, this can be an advantage.

Normal backpack

Too expensive, finishing quality issues, velcro can scratch things.

None

Never used