darcy___

Here's what I use and it works for me. Take it or leave it. I use a lowepro photo runner worn in front to carry the items I want quick access to while on the trail. I carry my tripod on the outside of my backpack like an ice axe. The rest of the equipment I take with me rides in my pack. I suggest you try a couple of options and see what works best for you and the equipment you have. For me the above has worked quite well, recently my brother and I took a trip whcih included enough food for ten days, all gear required for an early fall trip and my pack weighed approx. 55lbs at the beginning of the trip.

 

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Good luck and good backpacking.

I would agree with those who say "go with the 300 f4...." You are kidding yourself if you think you will pack a 400f2.8 or 600 etc. on a serious backpacking trip. There may be a few who would do it but I believe it is very few. You would probably end up going shorter distances, or worse yet not go at all.