DSLR Camera Backpack

[Simon Garrett]

Hi Simon,
Does it fit within Easy Jet's 25cm depth restriction?
Ian

I would think so. It's a bit hard to say just by measuring it, as there are straps etc hard to measure. But if there were a 33x25 bin, I think you would almost certainly get it in, provided the outer pockets aren't stuffed too full.

[William W]

I wonder how strictly these dimensions are applied? I know they have boxes that are these dimensions which they use to check, so presumably if you can 'squash' the bag into that space, you're okay?

There is NO point in wondering about it.

As previously posted in that other thread – portions here underlined and bolded for emphasis:

“But the once only real problem I had was not at the check in desk, but rather the delicate and intense issue was at security scanning which most often occurs AFTER all baggage check for the flight is closed and it was about the WEIGHT, not the dimensions and I am also very careful about this matter.

The limit on this particular airline was 7kg and my bag weighed just over 10kg (and I knew it was) and I had got 10 kg through regularly before.

I got around this by taking one camera and lens out and slinging it on my shoulder explaining to the Security Check that the Airline allowed “in addition to” the carry-on bag of 7kgs – “also a camera”, which could be carried in the passenger’s hand.

Even though I knew the rules, it was a delicate situation, as the security officer held the position of power.

I suggest that you know the rules exactly and also (probably more importantly) have good people management and negotiation skills and also have a Plan "B" as to what gear could be redirected as baggage checked items - and leave enough time for that baggage checking, should it be necessary.

The only problem which cannot have a well controlled and pre planned workaround is if the boarding pass / ID check at the Airplane boarding dock, refuses the carry-on item, because as I understand the procedure the item will be checked and sent on another (different flight and or different route) and then it can be collected later at the baggage hold at the destination airport - at least these are the rules I know apply to my most recent travels.”

WW

[IanCD]

Thanks Simon, Bill,
I had read the other thread and your advice, Bill
There's no weight limit with Easy Jet but, clearly, the external dimensions issue does apply... So, although the Prorunner 350 might squash into the 25cm box, the Fastpack might be preferable to be certain.
Ian

[William W]

Good. Glad you understood that my point was all about who held the position of power and not about weight or size, specifically.

Have a safe journey.

WW

[messner]

Hi
I use a F stop backpack, more than happy with it. Allows me to carry 2 bodies, three lenses plus other outdoor gear for a shoot in the field.
Messner

[t6b9p]

Although a little late (just got back from 7 week trip) perhaps this may be useful to others considering a Camera Pack and Airline Rules. The following relates to International travel.

First, many airlines allow a laptop to be carried as a separate personal item, so why add bulk and weight to your CAMERA pack. Also as noted by a previous poster, a camera can also be a personal item, not sure you will get away with a D700+500/4 but provided it meets their personal item size restrictions then why not.

I use the Kiboko bag (designed to be Airline compliant) however I keep all the straps and belt concealed in its storage location until I get on the plane. I also make sure I have a seat that is located in an area with plenty of overhead storage and get on the plane as soon as possible before the overhead storage is used up. I have routinely carried on 38-40lbs in this pack, the key is the airline. British Airways has a 52lb carry on limit as well as a 52lb suitcase limit. They have had this (undisclosed) carry on limit for years but only just placed the info on their website this year. If BA doesn't fly there then you will have to think twice about how much equipment to take.

With regards to those "test" bins to determine if your carry-on is allowed to be taken on-board. Often these bins are undersize with respect to the carry-on dimensions printed on your ticket. Since the ticket is a "contract" just make sure you don't exceed the ticket dimensions and you can probably talk your way out of it. In fact, I believe a couple of years ago Heathrow airport was required to place the correct size bins as a result of a lawsuit.

Interestly enough with all the (electronic) camera gear stuffed in that bag I have never had security want to look inside.

With regards to having my Kiboko "taken away" at the gate for shipping in the hold or by another flight - I have not yet faced this situation but with $10-20K in the bag then I will politely bring it to their attention that it is not worth the risk to me ($1-2K airline ticket) and therefore I will need to consider a different method of reaching my destination. At this point they would probably have to unload my suitcase from the plane for security reasons and therefore the situation could hopefully be re-negotiated.

Once at my destination, I will off-load unnecessary camera gear to lighten the load if possible as the Kiboko is not a comfy pack for that weight when walking/hiking any distance. About 20lbs in the pack is generally OK.

I place my Gitzo CF tripod inside a 6" diam. ABS tube that fits inside my soft (lt weight) suitcase and is secured by cable lock (my dad worked for BA baggage claims for 30 years and I heard all the stories). The soft case has a strap around it in case of zipper failure. This system hopefully prevents/reduces, crushing/breaking of the tripod legs, accidental opening and tripod falling out due to zipper or material failure, and of course theft.

Note: I have in the past used a long lens case but found this to be a magnet for Security and Customs, from comments to searches. Customs was courteous enough to let me unpack it. At LAX I was suddenly surrounded by 6 security staff, apparently me and my "suspicious" looking backpack were positioned in the balcony seating over the El Al checkin counter!

Addendum: I have a recurring lower back problem from an old accident and yet when I throw on my loaded Kiboko bag it is like switching on a morphine drip. Somehow it re-aligns my lower back and provides instant relief, my excuse for buying more equipment to put in it.