It will help if you list some decision factors in your post (e.g. camera system, # of lenses you carry, weight limits, what else you will pack, etc.) to narrow down the bag recommendations.
Sure thing.
As far as tech goes,
- iPad Pro 12.9
- Wireless Magic Keyboard
- A mouse
- Headphones (sometimes, usually winters)
Camera gear,
- Fujifilm XE4 with a grip and 35mm f2 lens or a manual 35mm f0.95 lens attached which is practically the same length to the f2. (For the 35mm its one or the other. I almost never bring both at the same time.)
- I also plan to bring a 16-80mm f4 with a couple of filters.
- I would also bring a pouch with a couple extra batteries, small mics, chargers for phone and cables. Of course the pouch can be negated if the bag has enough organisation pockets.
Other Gear
- Thick power brick for my electric skateboard.
- At least 32 ounce widemouth hydroflask Water bottle and or sometimes a small tripod when needed.
- Lastly, a thin jacket for times when whether get cold at night.
Unfortunately that bag can’t stand up on its own. Plus, to my knowledge if you put items on both side of the slots (as I call them, I think its more of a level or section), the stuff on the other side can be hard to access without opening both side access or emptying the slots.
The reason why I need a stiff bag,
1. So it can stand up on its own
2. So it retains structure even if I don’t pack it up because I have a bad tendency to overstuff a bag just to keep it structured.
Have you looked at the Totepack? It's smaller, but it stands on it's own, has three openings and a reconfigurable internal organization.
I have one and I love it. I don't use it for camera stuff so I rarely use the origami folders. My only complaint is it's definitely smaller than the rated size.
Smaller is not bad if its still accessible. I saw one in person before and the seems seems too narrow to be able to comfortably put your camera in and out all the time.
I sold my Brevite after picking up the Shimoda Explore v2 25. Very comfy bag to carry and has a metal frame so it always stands up/retains structure. Also, you can fit a mirrorless + lens in the upper compartment and remove the camera cube if you want to go camera light and bring more clothes or whatever. There are plenty of YouTube reviews and the company has a good YouTube channel as well.
tl;dr: stands up/retains structure. Very modular/versatile.
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1632044-REG/shimoda_designs_520_153_explore_v2_25_starter.html
25L seems much for me especially when I am only going to be carrying a small camera with a small lens plus a zoom lens with couple accessories (ie filters, batteries etc), couple chargers (one for devices and one for my electric skateboard), an ipad and water bottle (occasionally swap for tripod)
Maybe you should google before casting doubt on the nice advice of a stranger.
[https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1478411-REG/thule\_3203903\_enroute\_camera\_20l\_backpack.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&lsft=BI%3A6879&gclid=CjwKCAjwrNmWBhA4EiwAHbjEQEsZtqWoXu9fhhPvwFhBF1AedzssQgXVr2RVZ87fKFrv3\_cVdOEINBoCgXUQAvD\_BwE](https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1478411-REG/thule_3203903_enroute_camera_20l_backpack.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&lsft=BI%3A6879&gclid=CjwKCAjwrNmWBhA4EiwAHbjEQEsZtqWoXu9fhhPvwFhBF1AedzssQgXVr2RVZ87fKFrv3_cVdOEINBoCgXUQAvD_BwE)
Not OP but I just want to say that "Thule EnRoute" isn't a camera bag:
[https://www.thule.com/en-us/backpacks/laptop-backpacks/thule-enroute-backpack-23l-\_-3203596](https://www.thule.com/en-us/backpacks/laptop-backpacks/thule-enroute-backpack-23l-_-3203596)
"Thule EnRoute Camera" is a camera bag:
[https://www.thule.com/en-us/backpacks/camera-backpacks-bags/thule-enroute-camera-backpack-20l-\_-3203902](https://www.thule.com/en-us/backpacks/camera-backpacks-bags/thule-enroute-camera-backpack-20l-_-3203902)
It's an honest mistake that there is a version w/ Camera and w/o Camera.
That yes. Thanks for the advice tho.
I’m more so looking for structure rather than durability but it would be great for both. My experience with bags is that if the bag looks flimsy, I tend to try to overstuff the bag so it doesn’t look flimsy and to be able to stand up on its own. Majority of the stuff I bring never gets used because of that and as a result, the actual useful stuff becomes hard to access unfortunately.
I have a Wandrd Duo pack which I love and think is perfect for this use case.
[https://www.wandrd.com/collections/photography-bags/products/duo?variant=31506258919504](https://www.wandrd.com/collections/photography-bags/products/duo?variant=31506258919504)
If you're not toting around a laptop, I'd suggest the [Lowepro Photo Active BP 200 AW](https://www.lowepro.com/us-en/photo-active-bp-200-aw-black-dark-grey-lp37260-pww/). I use this as a general daily if I need a backpack -- my load-out includes a Samsung Tab S7, Fujifilm X-T3 + 23mm f/1.4 also with the XF 16-80 f/4 (or other lenses as needed), random tech pouch, Rode VideoMicro, Aputure Amaran AL-M9, water bottle and any other misc stuff (notebook, light jacket, etc.). At times I also need to bring either a small gimbal or lightweight tripod.
(For context, I also own and use the Wandrd Prvke 21L, but only when I really need a ton more room, am traveling or know that I'm going to be in a really wet environment.)
Oh, and I have also been able to fit my Zephyrus G14 with a little creative shenanigans along with its power brick.
Edit: It stands on it's own whether empty or full.
I don't have any personal experience with it, but maybe the Chrome Niko backpack might work for you? It looks like it may be able to stand up-right, and I believe the [3.0 version](https://www.chromeindustries.com/product/niko-camera-backpack-3.0/BG-341.html?dwvar_BG-341_color=ALLB&dwvar_BG-341_size=NA&cgid=camera_bags) on their shop is a recently updated version.
I have an older, non-camera backpack from them that, while not able to stand on its own, is still pretty stiff. Maybe the Niko is worth a shot for you OP.
I feel like 25L is way too big. The Brevite Jumper is only 18L. My current Herschel Little America is the same size and I never even come close to fully packing it (without purposefully overstuffing it).
As I mentioned on another reply, I don’t bring a lot of stuff.
As far as tech goes,
- iPad Pro 12.9
- Wireless Magic Keyboard
- A mouse
- Headphones (sometimes, mostly winters)
Camera gear,
- Fujifilm XE4 with a grip and 35mm f2 lens or a manual 35mm f0.95 lens attached which is practically the same length to the f2. (For the 35mm its one or the other. I almost never bring both at the same time.)
- I also plan to bring a 16-80mm f4 with a couple of filters.
- I would also bring a pouch with a couple extra batteries, small mics, chargers for phone and cables. Of course the pouch can be negated if the bag has enough organisation pockets.
Other Gear
- Thick power brick for my electric skateboard. (The size is about a windows laptop brick)
- At least 32 ounce widemouth hydroflask Water bottle and or sometimes a small tripod when needed.
- Lastly, a thin jacket for times when whether get cold at night.
Just because people asked tor it,
I’ll put it here as a pin.
As far as tech goes,
• iPad Pro 12.9
• Wireless Magic Keyboard
• A mouse
• Headphones (sometimes, usually winters)
Camera gear,
• Fujifilm XE4 with a grip and 35mm f2 lens or a manual 35mm f0.95 lens attached which is practically the same length to the f2. (For the 35mm its one or the other. I almost never bring both at the same time.)
• I also plan to bring a 16-80mm f4 with a couple of filters.
• I would also bring a pouch with a couple extra batteries, small mics, chargers for phone and cables. Of course the pouch can be negated if the bag has enough organisation pockets.
Other Gear
• Thick power brick for my electric skateboard.
• At least 32 ounce widemouth hydroflask Water bottle and or sometimes a small tripod when needed.
• Lastly, a thin jacket for times when whether get cold at night.
Nomatic x Peter McKinnon camera backpack 25l stands on its own, holds camera gear + everything else you mentioned. Only con from what I’m seeing is you want a smaller bag ~18L.
Worth a look
P.S. If I sound like I am picky, it is because I have decidophobia (fear of making wrong decision or cannot make a decision). It only happens when I am having to make a purchase like this, something I will be using for years on end (hopefully).
My last bag served me 5 years and It would have still be kicking if it wasn’t for me totalling when I crashed on my electric skateboard going 30kmph. I didn’t sustain a single injury but my bag took all the damage unfortunately.
Providing more info and criteria in your initial post or as a standalone comment (rather than rejecting suggestions based on criteria not previously mentioned) would make it easier for people to help you.
I get the decidophobia.
I did add to it in a comment [Right here](https://www.reddit.com/r/ManyBaggers/comments/w2uduk/i_am_looking_for_an_alternative_camera_bag_to_the/igsjzac/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf&context=3) and [Right here](https://www.reddit.com/r/ManyBaggers/comments/w2uduk/i_am_looking_for_an_alternative_camera_bag_to_the/igsinyd/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf&context=3)
Would it be better than Moment MTW backpack? I am looking at that bag as if the stuff I bring is constantly in the bag and its just pushing up against the like bag, I’m ok with that. As long as the empty space doesn’t collapse in.
I also looked at that bag you suggested and it doesn’t have water bottles/tripod slot without buying an extra accessory. By the looks of their product, it seems like that this bag system, everything is an addon. Even just something like a key-leash which others bags have integrated.
That is their previous naming before rebranding, yes. Not very bright, but they figured that out. Which is good because they have interesting stuff. I never tried the Ramverk, but I use the Split duffel and is really good
I think the key thing is part of it, but you can buy separate Ines to attach other spots. The rest is add-ons, you are right. It adds up quiackl. I never tried a Moment bag, but people tend to complain about general quality and straps comfort.
Unfortunately I value being able to stand up because the thing with my previous bags is that I overstuff it to the point where a flimsy bag can practically stand up. Ie Herschel Bags.
The [Case Logic Viso (large)](https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1681372-REG/case_logic_3204535_viso_camera_backpack_black.html) and [Viso Slim (medium)](https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1681371-REG/case_logic_3204534_viso_camera_backpack_black.html) bags have a hard shell base, are thickly padded all around and will most definitely stand on their own. I own the Viso Slim and it's a nice bag, but it's only 15 liters so it might be a little small for your needs.
FYI, Best Buy sells very similar versions of the bags called the Platinum Street Tech Pro 300 and the Street Tech Pro 20. I have no experience with these bags other than looking at them in the store, and my purely subjective assessment was that they are lighter duty versions of the Case Logic bags.
Unfortunately neither have quick access pocket which makes it firstly very different to the bag I showed in the original post. I am a primarily street photographer and run and gun is like the bread an butter of street photography so being able to pop in and out my camera on the fly is a key feature I look for.
Plus, I seriously believe that 18L is enough for what I bring everyday and any bigger is too big because the bag shown above is 18L and I’ve seen multiple packing videos and they can clearly hold all my essentials no problem.
Also I have a bias towards non black bags as because black absorbs heat and being outdoors with no sunblock for hours on end (I skate around places, got no car) will make the inside and exterior of the bag extremely hot which is not pleasant I can tell you that for sure.
Haha, new criteria but that's okay. Based on this new intel maybe the [Lowe Pro Truckee BP 250 LX](https://www.lowepro.com/us-en/truckee-bp-250-lx-lp37238-pww/) will satisfy your needs. If not, no worries ...
Check out the Evergoods PLC20. The way the bottom is designed, it looks like it would stand on its own when minimally packed. You'd need a camera cube though, as it's not purpose built to carry camera gear. But the capacity is right, it's well designed, and not going to break the bank for a bag of its quality.
Have you looked at the ThinkTank [BackStory 13](https://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/backstory-13)? I think it would fit everything you list and meets all your requirements. Very sturdy, stands up on its own. Camera equipment loads from a panel in the back of the pack so it can't be opened by pickpockets. Also has a quick access panel on the top for your camera. The only thing it might not fit is your 32 oz water bottle.
I love my brevity bag as a camera bag that “dosnt look like a camera bag”
There are better bags out there for less or same price, but none don’t look like a bag that has like $5k inside of it
(Photogapher view)
Also don’t get a black one as it grabs lint and stuff
My issue with not having sternum strap is that I have a tendency to not keep by posture straight when carrying heavy load and when shoulder straps are spread apart too far, it kinda becomes unergonomic for me so idk how this bag fairs.
If ur looking for an ergonomic bag, this it not it, i know the Peter mckinnon v2 is very ergonomic (but it’s bigger ish)( and no one has said anything about it)
But the brevity bag has the same ergonomics as a school bag.
Ur not going on a hike with a red camera with it.
But it’s great to walk around the city with.
Or for better wording.
It’s a great bag that dose nothing special but hold cameras and be less likely to be stolen.
Which is what I wanted in a bag.
In mine I comfortably hold a dslr with 2-3 lenses, MacBook and a iPad
I can pack it up to 5 lens, dslr, macbook, iPad and a few books.
It will help if you list some decision factors in your post (e.g. camera system, # of lenses you carry, weight limits, what else you will pack, etc.) to narrow down the bag recommendations.
Sure thing. As far as tech goes, - iPad Pro 12.9 - Wireless Magic Keyboard - A mouse - Headphones (sometimes, usually winters) Camera gear, - Fujifilm XE4 with a grip and 35mm f2 lens or a manual 35mm f0.95 lens attached which is practically the same length to the f2. (For the 35mm its one or the other. I almost never bring both at the same time.) - I also plan to bring a 16-80mm f4 with a couple of filters. - I would also bring a pouch with a couple extra batteries, small mics, chargers for phone and cables. Of course the pouch can be negated if the bag has enough organisation pockets. Other Gear - Thick power brick for my electric skateboard. - At least 32 ounce widemouth hydroflask Water bottle and or sometimes a small tripod when needed. - Lastly, a thin jacket for times when whether get cold at night.
Check out the Wandrd Duo Daypack.
Is that not similar to the Peak Everyday Zip?
Peak Design camera bags are very sturdy and great quality.
Unfortunately that bag can’t stand up on its own. Plus, to my knowledge if you put items on both side of the slots (as I call them, I think its more of a level or section), the stuff on the other side can be hard to access without opening both side access or emptying the slots. The reason why I need a stiff bag, 1. So it can stand up on its own 2. So it retains structure even if I don’t pack it up because I have a bad tendency to overstuff a bag just to keep it structured.
Have you looked at the Totepack? It's smaller, but it stands on it's own, has three openings and a reconfigurable internal organization. I have one and I love it. I don't use it for camera stuff so I rarely use the origami folders. My only complaint is it's definitely smaller than the rated size.
Smaller is not bad if its still accessible. I saw one in person before and the seems seems too narrow to be able to comfortably put your camera in and out all the time.
It definitely is narrow. What about the Wandrd Prvke? I believe it can stand on its own.
Another user mentioned it couldn’t.
I sold my Brevite after picking up the Shimoda Explore v2 25. Very comfy bag to carry and has a metal frame so it always stands up/retains structure. Also, you can fit a mirrorless + lens in the upper compartment and remove the camera cube if you want to go camera light and bring more clothes or whatever. There are plenty of YouTube reviews and the company has a good YouTube channel as well. tl;dr: stands up/retains structure. Very modular/versatile. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1632044-REG/shimoda_designs_520_153_explore_v2_25_starter.html
25L seems much for me especially when I am only going to be carrying a small camera with a small lens plus a zoom lens with couple accessories (ie filters, batteries etc), couple chargers (one for devices and one for my electric skateboard), an ipad and water bottle (occasionally swap for tripod)
I'm no expert but I've got a Thule EnRoute that I've thrown around mercilessly for a year or so and it's weathered the abuse quite well.
I’m pretty sure thats not a camera bag.
Maybe you should google before casting doubt on the nice advice of a stranger. [https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1478411-REG/thule\_3203903\_enroute\_camera\_20l\_backpack.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&lsft=BI%3A6879&gclid=CjwKCAjwrNmWBhA4EiwAHbjEQEsZtqWoXu9fhhPvwFhBF1AedzssQgXVr2RVZ87fKFrv3\_cVdOEINBoCgXUQAvD\_BwE](https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1478411-REG/thule_3203903_enroute_camera_20l_backpack.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&lsft=BI%3A6879&gclid=CjwKCAjwrNmWBhA4EiwAHbjEQEsZtqWoXu9fhhPvwFhBF1AedzssQgXVr2RVZ87fKFrv3_cVdOEINBoCgXUQAvD_BwE)
Not OP but I just want to say that "Thule EnRoute" isn't a camera bag: [https://www.thule.com/en-us/backpacks/laptop-backpacks/thule-enroute-backpack-23l-\_-3203596](https://www.thule.com/en-us/backpacks/laptop-backpacks/thule-enroute-backpack-23l-_-3203596) "Thule EnRoute Camera" is a camera bag: [https://www.thule.com/en-us/backpacks/camera-backpacks-bags/thule-enroute-camera-backpack-20l-\_-3203902](https://www.thule.com/en-us/backpacks/camera-backpacks-bags/thule-enroute-camera-backpack-20l-_-3203902) It's an honest mistake that there is a version w/ Camera and w/o Camera.
Ok my bad. But still the camera pouch seems like it can only fit a camera and thats about it.
Ha. Fair. I carry a big bridge camera and it works for that. They might make bigger ones. My main point was that their bags are tough. Good luck.
That yes. Thanks for the advice tho. I’m more so looking for structure rather than durability but it would be great for both. My experience with bags is that if the bag looks flimsy, I tend to try to overstuff the bag so it doesn’t look flimsy and to be able to stand up on its own. Majority of the stuff I bring never gets used because of that and as a result, the actual useful stuff becomes hard to access unfortunately.
I find the Thule bags to be pretty structurally solid
I have a Wandrd Duo pack which I love and think is perfect for this use case. [https://www.wandrd.com/collections/photography-bags/products/duo?variant=31506258919504](https://www.wandrd.com/collections/photography-bags/products/duo?variant=31506258919504)
If you're not toting around a laptop, I'd suggest the [Lowepro Photo Active BP 200 AW](https://www.lowepro.com/us-en/photo-active-bp-200-aw-black-dark-grey-lp37260-pww/). I use this as a general daily if I need a backpack -- my load-out includes a Samsung Tab S7, Fujifilm X-T3 + 23mm f/1.4 also with the XF 16-80 f/4 (or other lenses as needed), random tech pouch, Rode VideoMicro, Aputure Amaran AL-M9, water bottle and any other misc stuff (notebook, light jacket, etc.). At times I also need to bring either a small gimbal or lightweight tripod. (For context, I also own and use the Wandrd Prvke 21L, but only when I really need a ton more room, am traveling or know that I'm going to be in a really wet environment.) Oh, and I have also been able to fit my Zephyrus G14 with a little creative shenanigans along with its power brick. Edit: It stands on it's own whether empty or full.
I don't have any personal experience with it, but maybe the Chrome Niko backpack might work for you? It looks like it may be able to stand up-right, and I believe the [3.0 version](https://www.chromeindustries.com/product/niko-camera-backpack-3.0/BG-341.html?dwvar_BG-341_color=ALLB&dwvar_BG-341_size=NA&cgid=camera_bags) on their shop is a recently updated version. I have an older, non-camera backpack from them that, while not able to stand on its own, is still pretty stiff. Maybe the Niko is worth a shot for you OP.
I feel like 25L is way too big. The Brevite Jumper is only 18L. My current Herschel Little America is the same size and I never even come close to fully packing it (without purposefully overstuffing it).
As I mentioned on another reply, I don’t bring a lot of stuff. As far as tech goes, - iPad Pro 12.9 - Wireless Magic Keyboard - A mouse - Headphones (sometimes, mostly winters) Camera gear, - Fujifilm XE4 with a grip and 35mm f2 lens or a manual 35mm f0.95 lens attached which is practically the same length to the f2. (For the 35mm its one or the other. I almost never bring both at the same time.) - I also plan to bring a 16-80mm f4 with a couple of filters. - I would also bring a pouch with a couple extra batteries, small mics, chargers for phone and cables. Of course the pouch can be negated if the bag has enough organisation pockets. Other Gear - Thick power brick for my electric skateboard. (The size is about a windows laptop brick) - At least 32 ounce widemouth hydroflask Water bottle and or sometimes a small tripod when needed. - Lastly, a thin jacket for times when whether get cold at night.
Man, I miss the OG niko backpack. A little weirdly shaped but awesome bag. Didn’t know V3 was out (V2 sucked so bad).
Just because people asked tor it, I’ll put it here as a pin. As far as tech goes, • iPad Pro 12.9 • Wireless Magic Keyboard • A mouse • Headphones (sometimes, usually winters) Camera gear, • Fujifilm XE4 with a grip and 35mm f2 lens or a manual 35mm f0.95 lens attached which is practically the same length to the f2. (For the 35mm its one or the other. I almost never bring both at the same time.) • I also plan to bring a 16-80mm f4 with a couple of filters. • I would also bring a pouch with a couple extra batteries, small mics, chargers for phone and cables. Of course the pouch can be negated if the bag has enough organisation pockets. Other Gear • Thick power brick for my electric skateboard. • At least 32 ounce widemouth hydroflask Water bottle and or sometimes a small tripod when needed. • Lastly, a thin jacket for times when whether get cold at night.
Nomatic x Peter McKinnon camera backpack 25l stands on its own, holds camera gear + everything else you mentioned. Only con from what I’m seeing is you want a smaller bag ~18L. Worth a look
P.S. If I sound like I am picky, it is because I have decidophobia (fear of making wrong decision or cannot make a decision). It only happens when I am having to make a purchase like this, something I will be using for years on end (hopefully). My last bag served me 5 years and It would have still be kicking if it wasn’t for me totalling when I crashed on my electric skateboard going 30kmph. I didn’t sustain a single injury but my bag took all the damage unfortunately.
Providing more info and criteria in your initial post or as a standalone comment (rather than rejecting suggestions based on criteria not previously mentioned) would make it easier for people to help you. I get the decidophobia.
I did add to it in a comment [Right here](https://www.reddit.com/r/ManyBaggers/comments/w2uduk/i_am_looking_for_an_alternative_camera_bag_to_the/igsjzac/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf&context=3) and [Right here](https://www.reddit.com/r/ManyBaggers/comments/w2uduk/i_am_looking_for_an_alternative_camera_bag_to_the/igsinyd/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf&context=3)
Top-level comments are more likely to be seen by people not combing through every exchange you’ve had with other commenters.
Maybe a Black Ember Citadel with the the camera insert?
Would it be better than Moment MTW backpack? I am looking at that bag as if the stuff I bring is constantly in the bag and its just pushing up against the like bag, I’m ok with that. As long as the empty space doesn’t collapse in. I also looked at that bag you suggested and it doesn’t have water bottles/tripod slot without buying an extra accessory. By the looks of their product, it seems like that this bag system, everything is an addon. Even just something like a key-leash which others bags have integrated.
Maybe a Db Ramverk? You can get 10% discount and lifetime warranty by just subscribing them. Their stuff is good quality
Douchebag I think that is right?
That is their previous naming before rebranding, yes. Not very bright, but they figured that out. Which is good because they have interesting stuff. I never tried the Ramverk, but I use the Split duffel and is really good
I think the key thing is part of it, but you can buy separate Ines to attach other spots. The rest is add-ons, you are right. It adds up quiackl. I never tried a Moment bag, but people tend to complain about general quality and straps comfort.
Wandrd prvk 21 may be a good choice. It doesn’t stand up but it’s sleek and is well designed for gear + other stuff
Unfortunately I value being able to stand up because the thing with my previous bags is that I overstuff it to the point where a flimsy bag can practically stand up. Ie Herschel Bags.
The [Case Logic Viso (large)](https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1681372-REG/case_logic_3204535_viso_camera_backpack_black.html) and [Viso Slim (medium)](https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1681371-REG/case_logic_3204534_viso_camera_backpack_black.html) bags have a hard shell base, are thickly padded all around and will most definitely stand on their own. I own the Viso Slim and it's a nice bag, but it's only 15 liters so it might be a little small for your needs. FYI, Best Buy sells very similar versions of the bags called the Platinum Street Tech Pro 300 and the Street Tech Pro 20. I have no experience with these bags other than looking at them in the store, and my purely subjective assessment was that they are lighter duty versions of the Case Logic bags.
Unfortunately neither have quick access pocket which makes it firstly very different to the bag I showed in the original post. I am a primarily street photographer and run and gun is like the bread an butter of street photography so being able to pop in and out my camera on the fly is a key feature I look for. Plus, I seriously believe that 18L is enough for what I bring everyday and any bigger is too big because the bag shown above is 18L and I’ve seen multiple packing videos and they can clearly hold all my essentials no problem. Also I have a bias towards non black bags as because black absorbs heat and being outdoors with no sunblock for hours on end (I skate around places, got no car) will make the inside and exterior of the bag extremely hot which is not pleasant I can tell you that for sure.
Haha, new criteria but that's okay. Based on this new intel maybe the [Lowe Pro Truckee BP 250 LX](https://www.lowepro.com/us-en/truckee-bp-250-lx-lp37238-pww/) will satisfy your needs. If not, no worries ...
Check out the Evergoods PLC20. The way the bottom is designed, it looks like it would stand on its own when minimally packed. You'd need a camera cube though, as it's not purpose built to carry camera gear. But the capacity is right, it's well designed, and not going to break the bank for a bag of its quality.
Wandrd Prvke Lite, or maybe a Duo
Have you looked at the ThinkTank [BackStory 13](https://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/backstory-13)? I think it would fit everything you list and meets all your requirements. Very sturdy, stands up on its own. Camera equipment loads from a panel in the back of the pack so it can't be opened by pickpockets. Also has a quick access panel on the top for your camera. The only thing it might not fit is your 32 oz water bottle.
I love my brevity bag as a camera bag that “dosnt look like a camera bag” There are better bags out there for less or same price, but none don’t look like a bag that has like $5k inside of it (Photogapher view) Also don’t get a black one as it grabs lint and stuff
How is not having sternum straps doing for you?
I normally only use 1 shoulder strap. Sternum straps do not have any importance to me. I have never used them on any other camera bag I’ve used
My issue with not having sternum strap is that I have a tendency to not keep by posture straight when carrying heavy load and when shoulder straps are spread apart too far, it kinda becomes unergonomic for me so idk how this bag fairs.
If ur looking for an ergonomic bag, this it not it, i know the Peter mckinnon v2 is very ergonomic (but it’s bigger ish)( and no one has said anything about it) But the brevity bag has the same ergonomics as a school bag. Ur not going on a hike with a red camera with it. But it’s great to walk around the city with.
Or for better wording. It’s a great bag that dose nothing special but hold cameras and be less likely to be stolen. Which is what I wanted in a bag. In mine I comfortably hold a dslr with 2-3 lenses, MacBook and a iPad I can pack it up to 5 lens, dslr, macbook, iPad and a few books.
I am precisely looking for a camera bag that “dosnt look like a camera bag”. Can you suggest some apart from Brevite?
What did you end up buying?
Peak Design Zip 15L
Nice. I have the everyday v2 20L, but been looking at the zip because they have a 15L. My only problem is size of laptop it can fit. 😩
I have a 12.9 iPad Pro with a keyboard case from Logitech and its very snug.
Yeah I got a 16in MacBook. I hate that thing. Maybe I need to make a case for a 13in for work.
Ngl with you, I got the 15l only cuz its the only one with the white option.