Sebastian L , Apr 03, 2006; 12:14 a.m.
I know this question has been posted in variations but I read them all
and could not find what I�m looking for. I would like to buy a rolling
backpack for the following set-up: Arca Swiss 4x5 F classic, 2 lenses
(I will not get more than 2) , WA bellows, light meter, 5-15 film
holders ( will switch to Fuji Quickload soon), a dark cloth T-shirt
and a g1128 gitzo tripod.
After using a Timbuk 2 messenger bag and a couple of Domke pouches on
my belt for this gear, I�d like to get something more comfortable. I�d
like to decide between Tamrack rolling backpack (the smallest one) and
Lowepro Road Runner Mini. The latter seems to have the best system
when using as a backpack. I know they are very heavy (10-12#) but I
like the idea of being able to roll the bag instead of carrying it on
my back all the time. Does anyone have experience with any of those
rolling backpacks?
Ellis Vener 
, Apr 03, 2006; 09:26 a.m.
I wouldn't choose either Tamrac or Lowe Pro.
Go to http://www.thinktankphoto.com and get the Airline Security Rolling Carry On. It has backstraps built in for short distance backpacking.
This is absolutely the best rolling camera case I've ever used. It carries my Arca-Swiis F-line, 5 lenses, holders,bellows, meters, film, loupes, etc. very easily, along wth a tripod on the side. Very well designed and extremely rugged. It was designed by a former chief designer at Lowe Pro and some photojournalists.
alex z , Apr 03, 2006; 02:17 p.m.
Check out Kata bags - their HB-502 does the job more then nicely (albeit I don't own Arca, just a regular 4x5 field folder).
I personally found it much better then either LowePro or Tamrac I tried as well.
www.kata-bags.com
Wilbur Wong , Apr 03, 2006; 04:08 p.m.
Rolling back packs work where you have finished floors. Also generally on paved pathways outdoors. If you think you would go beyond this realm, rolling with small 2 to 3 inch wheels don't work.
If I knew I would be on paved ROUGH pathways, I use a baby jogging stroller, this means like 15 inch wheels. If there are serious steps involved, even this won't work, even though this is manageable in sand. But to recap, if you think you will get that pack off your back take a serious look at what conditions what you choose will accomodate!
Gerry Underwood , Apr 06, 2006; 07:06 p.m.
If you are looking for high capacity rolling backpack carry on and don't want to break the bank, you might check out Amvona's model at
http://www.amvona.com/v7/shop/?page=shop/flypage&view=1&product_id=2472
I have one of these, but really have not gotten a good chance to use it yet so the verdict is still out. However the bag seems fairly sturdy and lots of stretch with separate compartments for small items. FWIW, the comments on the site seem to be right on both pro and con but for the price you can't ask perfection.
Gary Ferguson 
, Apr 07, 2006; 10:53 a.m.
"Does anyone have experience with any of those rolling backpacks?"
I use a rolling backpack with a Linhof M679 and a digital outfit including five lenses and a bulky sliding carriage. Because I use it for architectural work a rolling backpack makes sense, but it adds a substantial weight penalty, plus the rollers and folding handgrip take up a lot of space. I guess what I'm saying is that unless you'll be using the wheels for the clear majority of time I'd question if it's the best solution for a two lens film outfit.
Tom Anderson , Apr 08, 2006; 04:47 p.m.
The combination I use (with either LF (Arca Swiss F Line) or MF)is a Wesco aluminum folding carier. It is 8 lbs and has 1.5x7 inch wheels. I carry my gear in either a Lowpro pack or a Pelican waterproof case and attach it to the carrier using bunjee cords. This allows me to easily walk on paths and even up stairs which you cannot do with the small wheels of the pack carriers. If I am flying I bunjee the carrier to my clothes bag when I check in
If I am going light(backpacking)I switch to my Arca Swiss Misura which I use with a Mountain Smith Pack using Fuji Quickloads. Total weight with tripod is 23Lbs and that includes two boxes of film and the rest of my gear.
I am now on my fourth Fuji Quickload holder in the past three years. I can't seem to get more than 6 to 8 boxes of film before they fail.
