Alta Sky 68 : Camera Backpack >800mm and extra lenses - 34 Litres

The ALTA SKY 68 is a new style backpack for photographers who are planning a longer trek where they need their 800mm lens to get closer to that elusive subject, but want the versatility to be able to change lenses to take advantage of photo opportunities as they come along, whether it be a spectacular landscape or a stunning macro opportunity.

Until now, the choice has been to carry their telephoto lens and leave the rest of the kit at home (such as in an Alta Sky 66), or to take a wider bag that can take the additional lenses, but means that the body needs to be detached from the telephoto lens in transit, and setup on site.

The Alta Sky 68 gets around this with two separate sections in the main compartment.

One half of the main compartment is designed to fit a Pro DSLR or Mirrorless body attached to a 600mm (f/4.0) lens or a wide range of 800mm (f/5.6) lenses. An adjustable thick, sturdy and well-padded cradle supports the camera body from below and secures the large lens in position, while making sure it is well protected all around the delicate connection point.

Ideal for lenses such as:

• AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR
• CANON RF 800MM F5.6L IS USM
  
• NIKON NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED VR
  
• NIKON NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR
• SIGMA 300-600mm F4 DG OS | S
• SONY 400-800MM F6.3-8 G OSS LE
  
• SONY FE 400mm F2.8 G MASTER
  
• SONY FE 600mm F4.0 G MASTER
  

Here Jeremy from Vanguard demonstrates this with a Sigma 300-600mm lens:

The other half of the main compartment is designed to hold up to 7 additional lenses, or it can be customised to carry the personal kit you need for a longer trek.

A full front opening flap ensures easy top access to the camera/telephoto lens, and the top half of the compartment with the additional lenses, while the lower half of each compartment can be accessed from the back.

The interior is a light, bright orange that allows you to clearly see the contents of the bag, even in low light conditions. Or in the event of an emergency on your trek, can help you attract attention by making you more visible.

A full sized tripod can be carried centrally for optimal balance, using the tripod foot pocket and adjustable straps to hold it tightly for maximum comfort on the move. Alternatively a tripod or monopod can be carried in the expanding side pocket, or it can be used to carry a water bottle.

Organise all other gear and personal essentials such as a 16" laptop (compartment is 280 x 25 x 360mm), 11" tablet, memory cards, cables, batteries, charger and smartphone, exactly where you need them

Designed to carry the heaviest loads for extended periods of time, we set the bar for comfortable carrying at a new high. Our advanced ergonomic back and harness system is fully adjustable and features a well-padded breathable 3D back, uniquely shaped easy height adjusting shoulder straps that perfectly contour to your back and torso, adjustable sternum strap and well-padded supporting waist belt. All these join together to promise a ‘never-tire’ user experience!

For shorter trips, there is also a detachable shoulder strap on the side that allows you to choose the best way to carry it.

Alternatively, if you're not planning on crossing arduous terrain and want to take the strain off your back, you can consider the Alta Sky 68T which is a backpack version that can be converted to a a roller case using Vanguard's Reglide Wheel System.

Constructed to be tough and weatherproof with a mix of 1000D and 600D polyester, and a total coverage rain cover for the wettest days, the Alta Sky Series is designed to protect your valuable kit in the most arduous conditions.

So if you're looking to carry up to an 800mm lens on a trip, but want the ability to take advantage of alternative styles such as landscape or macro as you go, then check out the Alta Sky 68 and #makeupyourownmind

Product Reviews:

• "Absolutely perfect" for "the right photographer" in this ePhotozine review
• Review by Photography News
• Review by Nick Dautlich working with Park Cameras
• Review by Tim Mitchell

You may also be interested in:

• Click here to read the product launch blog
• Click here for a guide on how to clean your camera bag
• Click here to learn why "hand luggage" is not as simple as it could be
• Vanguard blog explaining why the Alta Sky is the best camera bag for long lenses
• Vanguard blog explaining what to look for when choosing a bag for the longest lenses