A backpack for the long haul, and a sling bag for when photo opportunities knock are two reasons to consider the black Fastpack 250 AW II Backpack  from Lowepro. The 250 AW II features three, padded, zippered compartments for storing and protecting your gear. The top one is for personal items such as headphones, clothing, and snacks. A rear compartment is for holding up to 15" laptop and tablet. And a side compartment most easily accessed in the sling-mode is for storing your DSLR camera with attached zoom lens and 2-3 extra lenses or flash units.

Configure the side compartment for your photo gear with the three, included, padded dividers. Small items such as flashlights, sunglasses, cables, pens, cellphones and a wallet may be stored in the five slip-in pockets located inside the top compartment. Next to these pockets is a lanyard with a swiveling clip for your keys. A tall, stretch-mesh pocket on the right side of the bag can hold a water bottle or a tripod/monopod. An adjustable strap above this pocket is used for securing the top of the tripod/monopod.

For backpack usage, the Fastpack features a shoulder harness with a chest strap and a removable waist belt. The chest strap and waist belt each provide greater comfort and stability with heavier loads, and longer treks. When traveling with rolling luggage, use the quick-release straps on the back panel to secure your Fastpack to a trolley handle. And should inclement weather approach, simply deploy the built-in, all weather cover to safeguard your gear.