Travel / carry bags

[Crapking]

Was originally interested in wearing /carrying gear at indoor volleyball tournaments, not necessarily trekking adventures or air travel - went back and forth between the Lowepro FLIPSIDE and the Think Tank Retrospective series.  Ultimately chose the lower profile Think Tank Retrospective.  It was a tough call because of the positive feedback on the FLIPSIDE model, and the extra $$, but decided against the backpack model and ordered the messenger style Retro 30.  Appreciate everyone's input, though.  Enjoy my daily visits to the FORUM 

[Crapking]

FWIW, I received the bag yesterday (Think Tank Retrospective 30).  The bag is well built/sturdy canvas-type feel, is loaded with pockets/dividers, and has very nice zippering with nice adjustable straps/carry handles.  Looks like a man-bag and not a camera bag. Only 2 'complaints' are that when carrying over the shoulder, the cover flap is pretty long and must be folded over itself to gain full access to interior, but because it is so big, it does serve well as a shelf when changing lenses - very handy even though it slows the lens-change process down slightly. The other minor flaw is the side pockets are 2 small/tight to carry gatorade bottles- they barely fit a slim water bottle. But, there is a handle loop where you can hang a carabiner to a lexan bottle, so no biggie but just one more thing flopping around, and one more item to remember to bring. Better for the environment I guess, (and my gut,) as now I'll bring Crystal Light, instead of buying gatorade

[ronderick]

Only 2 'complaints' are that when carrying over the shoulder, the cover flap is pretty long and must be folded over itself to gain full access to interior, but because it is so big, it does serve well as a shelf when changing lenses - very handy even though it slows the lens-change process down slightly.

I must say that having this feature can actually be beneficial in certain situations... such as wading through a large crowd. Quick access for you is equivalent to quick access for others while ur not looking.

[Crapking]

True - but there is excellent closure protection with velcro - 2 sets actually, which are very sticky.  You need to pull with both hands to lift off the flap, and inside, an additional flap which allows another layer of closure of the long side pocket with more velcro.   This is definitely a well-made, and thought out bag, and I am looking forward to a long day of shooting with it next weekend.