Alta Sky 68T : Camera Roller/Backpack >800mm and extra lenses - 42 Litres

The ALTA SKY 68T is an extra large backpack for photographers who are carrying up to an 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 sunset or a stunning architectural shot.

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 often needs to be detached from the telephoto lens in transit, and setup on site, and can be fiddly to access the camera and lens.

The Alta Sky 68T 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
  

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 all the additional lenses, while the security straps clip in to ensure that your camera bag can't be opened on the go.

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 290 x 25 x 360mm), 13" tablet, memory cards, cables, batteries, charger and smartphone, exactly where you need them

The Alta Sky 68T is designed to carry the heaviest loads in backpack mode or as a roller case. Ideal for photographers who can take advantage of city pavements, but value the ability to carry as a backpack to cover rougher ground.

The roller system incorporates a dual bar handle with the Vanguard Reglide Wheels System. This is a 4-wheel system that allows the wheels to be removed, either to save a little space, or to replace them as they succumb to life's knock and bumps, maximising the life of the camera bag.

When the terrain demands, simply unzip the rear cover, set up the harness system, fit the rear wheel covers and you're good to go with a well padded harness and airflow system, along with load lifter straps.

If you're planning longer hikes across more rugged terrain, then we'd recommend the Alta Sky 68. This is designed to be out in the wilds, and adding a handle and wheels will always add weight and bulk.

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.

For more information, you can checkout this demo video. If you watch on YouTube you can use the description to find the section you're most interested in, rather than watching the whole video:

So if you're looking to carry up to an 800mm lens and additional kit on a trip, but want the ability to take take the load off your shoulders, then check out the Alta Sky 68T.

You may be interested in:

• 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