I’m gearing up for a two-week photography trip and plan on taking my Canon 6D Mark II. While I love the full-frame results, the body is a bit bulky for long days of hiking and sightseeing. I’m trying to narrow down the absolute essentials that make traveling with this specific DSLR easier. I’m especially curious about comfortable strap systems to handle the weight and any compact battery solutions, as I'm worried about the LP-E6N life during long shoots. Are there specific lightweight tripods or weather-sealing gear you’d recommend for this model? What are your 'must-have' accessories to keep the 6DII portable and protected without overpacking my bag?
Respectfully, I'd actually suggest a different approach for the 6DII. Not to disagree with the others, but I've had a different experience when it comes to long hiking days. Honestly, even with the best padding, a heavy DSLR on a neck strap like the Peak Design Slide—which was mentioned earlier—eventually reallyyy starts to strain my neck. I'm pretty cautious about my gear and my back, so I'm very satisfied using the Spider Camera Holster SpiderLight Backpacker Kit instead. It basically clips the camera right to your backpack strap or belt, so the weight distribution is much better. I pair that with the Peak Design Clutch Camera Hand Strap just so I have a secure grip when I'm shooting and dont worry about dropping it. Regarding the batteries, I'm gonna be conservative and suggest sticking to the official Canon LP-E6N Lithium-Ion Battery. Ngl, those cheap third-party ones make me nervous about the camera's electronics, and I've heard they can swell sometimes. I'm still kinda new to this, so I prefer the peace of mind. For a tripod, the Manfrotto Befree Advanced Travel Alumnium Tripod with Ball Head is a great choice. It’s light but way more stable than a cheap plastic one for a full-frame body. Basically, a holster vs a neck strap is the biggest choice you'll make for comfort. I think the holster wins for long days!! gl with the trip!
hey, i totally get u on the weight thing! the 6dii is a beast but man the photos are so good. honestly, i'm still kinda new to this but i've found some cheap stuff that really works well for me without breaking the bank. here is what i recommend:
* **strap:** skip the neck strap!! i use the Altura Photo Rapid Fire Camera Neck Strap and it's basically a lifesaver for like $20. it sits on ur shoulder so the weight doesn't kill ur neck all day.
* **batteries:** i was worried about the lp-e6n life too, so i grabbed the BM Premium 2-Pack LP-E6N High Capacity Batteries and Dual USB Charger for around $30. they last almost as long as the canon ones imo.
* **tripod:** for hiking, i use the ZOMEi Q111 55-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Tripod. it's like $40 and super light to carry... maybe a bit flimsy in wind tho?
* **protection:** i just use these Altura Photo Professional Rain Covers which are like $15 for two. hope ur trip goes great! r u planning on doing any night shots??
I went through this last year. Weight distribution matters, so I compared Peak Design Slide's 45mm webbing vs BlackRapid Sport Breathe padding. Slide's anchor system worked well, so I'm super satisfied!
To add to the point above: I have been very satisfied with a more minimalist approach to my 6D Mark II kit. It is a heavy body for sure, but I have found that you dont always need the most expensive gear to make it manageable.