In the world of seemingly endless options for camera bags, this has remained a favorite of mine and has been a workhorse for the past six years. It may not be the most popular bag out there—in fact, it has since been discontinued—but here’s why I wish it weren’t.
It pains me in some ways to write this, as after many years of use and abuse, my backpack is starting to show its age. This has me reconciling with the fact that soon it may be time for a replacement. If it were still being produced, I would simply give it a refresh with a new replacement. Perhaps the used market may be my best friend in this instance. InCase is more known for their tech backpacks as opposed to camera bags, but when I was looking for a smaller companion to my huge LowePro many years ago, this seemed to tick all the boxes I needed. First, it doesn’t look like a camera bag at all, and it opens from the back, so it is theft-adverse. Plus, it just looks sleek. The zippers have consistently held up, and the straps are rather comfortable with the amount of padding they have.
The issue I’m facing is that I don’t know how much longer it will hold on, as the stitching on the straps, as well as the top handle, is starting to tear. This is after I’ve put my sewing skills to the test in an effort to slow the damage. What doesn’t help the issue, though, is that I usually shoot with a decent amount of kit. I am no stranger to pushing the limits of this bag, and where the stitching is wearing most is right where I would pick the bag up and whip it around my shoulders. I would love to tell you that since this, I’ve begun to be gentler and more careful, but I’m not one to lie, and that would most certainly be a lie.
This bag borderline started my professional career with me, as I got it when I was still in college and semi-pro. Since then, I’ve used it and abused it in just about every way imaginable. The fabric has held up, as have the zippers, compartments, and everything besides the stitching on the straps. I’ve even used it as a combination laptop/overnight bag before, if I was going on a short trip, so it offered more than just being a traditional travel camera bag. Nevertheless, I’ve taken it on planes, trains, and yes, even automobiles…sorry, I had to.
At this point, I know this bag’s days are numbered, but I can’t help but feel a sense of attachment. It’s been with me through the highs and lows of my career, from my first professional gigs to countless adventures. Every tear in the fabric and fray in the stitching tells a story of the miles traveled and the memories captured. Though I may eventually have to retire it, this bag will always hold a special place in my journey. It’s more than just a bag—it’s been a trusted companion, carrying not only my gear but the weight of years of experience. When the time comes to let it go, it will have earned its rest.
