Honestly, consider the Apache 4800 Weatherproof Protective Case versus the Vanguard Supreme 46F Hard Case. The Apache is a very decent option for value, while the Vanguard is more refined. Both fit your RF glass and are rugged enough for a 4x4 trip. It basically depends on your needs, but I think the Apache is the best choice for staying under budget. gl!

For your situation, I would suggest comparing these two options: * Pelican Air 1535 Case with TrekPak Dividers: It’s 40% lighter than standard cases (huge pro), and TrekPak prevents those RF lenses from rattling... basically the best investment under $400.
* Nanuk 935 Case with Padded Dividers: Super rugged latches, but definitely heavier to lug around. Make sure to watch that total weight! I’d go with the Pelican Air tbh, it’s honestly much better for rugged terrain. 👍

I totally agree with the point about avoiding that pick-and-pluck foam—it's honestly a mess after a year of use and your RF glass deserves better protection from dust. If you're looking at the market right now, SKB iSeries 3i-2011-7 Case is a massive sleeper hit compared to the big names. It’s basically bulletproof and the trigger-release latches are way easier on your hands than the old-school Pelican ones. Plus, it fits the R5 and those two f/2.8 zooms perfectly. Another one to look at if you want to save some cash without sacrificing weather-sealing is the Seahorse SE-920 Protective Case. It’s realy rugged for the price point and leaves you plenty of room in the budget for a high-end divider system. I’ve found that the SKB often feels more 'precise' in its manufacturing than some of the cheaper alternatives. Since that RF 70-200mm is so much shorter than the old EF version, you can actually pack things pretty tight and save some weight too. Definately worth checking out the SKB stuff before you pull the trigger on a Pelican!!!

But I’m gonna go against the grain here and say you don’t actually need to spend $300+ on a pre-configured kit to get pro-level protection. Honestly, the biggest markup in the industry is on those branded divider systems. If you're on a budget but want that rigid, custom fit for your RF gear, you're better off going the DIY route with a high-quality 'blank' shell. I’ve had great luck grabbing a Monoprice Pure Outdoor Weatherproof Hard Case or even a Condition 1 22" Rolling Hard Case for way less than the big names. They meet the same IP67 standards and are pretty much indestructible in the back of a 4x4. Instead of that crumbly pick-and-pluck stuff, order some FastCap Kaizen Foam or sheets of high-density closed-cell polyethylene (PE) foam. It’s way more durable and doesn't trap moisture or dust like the cheap open-cell foam. You can custom-cut it to perfectly cradle the R5 and those heavy zooms so there's zero movement. It takes maybe an hour of work, but it’s basically a professional-grade solution for a fraction of the cost. Plus, custom-cut foam looks way cleaner and handles the weight of the RF 70-200mm better than flimsy dividers.

> I’m looking for a serious, rugged carrying case—ideally something that can survive being tossed in the back of a 4x4 watch out for pick-and-pluck foam cuz it eventually crumbles and gets dust inside ur RF glass. i've seen it happen. for your situation, maybe check out SKB or HPRC brands.

Big if true