Camera bag that doesn't look like a camera bag.

Mister Big

Mister Big

Well-known member
I've been researching bags and really admire the Portabrace bags. Of course, everyone tells me -- including my local Portabrace dealer -- that every thief knows what's inside a Portabrace bag. I suspect thieves also know that "Cine" in front of a bag name says what's inside, so does anything by Tenba and Tamrac. Anything even shaped like a Portrabrace bag (the Katas come to mind) also screams "steal me!"

I'm wondering if anyone knows of a bag that doesn't scream "expensive video camera inside?" I've been thinking of looking for a way to customize a Timbuk2 messenger bag by having a cobbler, seamstress, upholsterer line the bag with padding and include a few dividers. Of course, I may end up with a $500 bag this way, which is what I don't want to do.

Any suggestions?
 
The bag thats universally considered un-stealable to keep your camera equipment in is a diaper bag.

Laugh, go on.

But, it's a long known fact, people don't steal diaper bags.
 
I used to use soft tool cases ($20-$30 depending on size) before I upgraded to a Portabrace. Naturally, this doesn't protect you from anyone looking to steal tools, which may increase/decrease your chances.

Diaper bags are pretty good too, although you may want to smear some peanut butter (nutty of course) over it to increase the illusion. ;-)
 
My "stealth" bag is a Lowe-Pro Mini-Trekker backpack. It looks like a basic daypack and in my experience--people don't give it a second glance. I have tried using a Timbuk2 messenger bag on occasion and it's just unsuitable for the DVX. Even modified, it wouldn't work very well, I think.
 
Since I work in a paranoid police-state (no, not the US), all of my gear is as inconspicuous as possible.

I simply pad regular luggage and duffel-bags with thick foam, and line the sides with very thin plywood for impact protection.

Very light, cheap, and doesn't look anything like video gear -- perfect!
 
Barry, is that the one with the wheels or without? This bag seems made for still cameras. Are the velcro pads easily customizeable for the DVX? Thanks for your help.
 
I have that same mini trekker and it's perfect for all dv cam's. It's the one without wheels, but it takes up most of the room in the bag. It leaves a bunch of room on the sides for whatever you want...tapes, batteries, charger, whatever you want.
 
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