falconea, what Crumpler bag does Mr F. use? Does he carry a laptop as well? How much non-photo/computer equipment can he carry in the other compartment?

Hi,

I use the Crumpler Farmer's Double. I got it because I like to carry my camera with me just in case a picture presents its self and because I have to bring my work laptop (Acer Travelmate 5?? - 15 inch big and heavy laptop, not my choice) home often to do work and I disliked the laptop bag they provided.

As mentioned you can completely remove the camera insert and replace it with whatever you like and you can get to the camera area without unpacking the rest of the bag.

I normally carry one body, 3 lenses (one attached to the body), 2 flashes, spare batteries and memory cards in the camera section. The most I have had in the rest of the bag is: 15 inch Acer laptop, powersupply for laptop, 2 lunchboxes holding 4 slices of bread each, 2 mugs, A4 display book, 2 bananas, PDA and a couple of other small bits.

I like it and find it very useful. It falls down in a few minor ways however.
The top section (non camera) tapers towards the top and sometimes it's like playing tetris to get everything in there.
You can't get your camera out while wearing the bag - the LowePro Nova 2 solution works very well however (I got The Nova 2 with an additional pocket and some computer accessories in there when we last travelled).
Ther could be a bit more padding between the sections - I've never had any problems, I just like lots of padding for my equipment.
There is no outside mesh pocket for drink bottles.

Hope this helps you make a decission. I'm convinced that there is no such thing as the perfect camera bag which is why I own so may of them, but for everyday use I haven't found anything better than the Crumpler.