08/05/2026 9:31 am
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Finally taking my 5D Mark IV to Iceland next month and I'm super hyped but my head is spinning with gear choices. I only have about $200 left after my lens purchase so I gotta be smart. I'm torn between the Peak Design Slide strap or a BlackRapid harness because my logic was I'll need something secure for hiking but I dont want it swinging around. Also looking at the Lowepro Protactic vs the Wandrd Prvke for my main bag. The Lowepro looks like a tank but the Wandrd seems better for travel and I cant decide if the extra protection is worth the bulk since plane space is tight. Which one is actually essential?
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08/05/2026 10:05 am
@Reply #1 - good point! Honestly, the weather in Iceland isn't just wet, it's unpredictable and windy as hell. I've been shooting with the 5D series for over a decade and while that body is a tank, the weight is gonna destroy your neck on an 8-mile hike. If you're torn on the strap, definitely go for the Peak Design Slide Camera Strap Black v3. In my experience, the BlackRapid style is a nightmare when you're scrambling over wet basalt because the camera swings like a pendulum. The Slide lets you cinch it tight against your back so it doesnt move. Plus, the anchors are rated for 200lbs. For the bag, I'd lean toward the WANDRD PRVKE 31L Photo Bundle Black. The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Black is great for protection but it's way too bulky for small plane cabins. The 31L Wandrd fits the 5D IV perfectly and the roll-top is a lifesaver for extra layers. With your remaining budget, you really need these:
- At least two Canon LP-E6NH Lithium-Ion Battery spares. Cold kills voltage fast.
- A Peak Design Camera Shell Medium cover. Weather sealing is good, but constant waterfall mist is better handled with a physical barrier. Don't overthink the tank aspect. The Wandrd is tough enough. Reliability beats bulk every time in the field...
10
08/05/2026 9:55 am
Regarding what #2 said about the weather... I totally feel that. I was super happy with my Think Tank Photo Emergency Rain Cover Medium at the waterfalls. To keep it cheap, I skipped the fancy strap and bought a SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Card instead. Tbh, youll be glad you have the extra storage when the light hits those glaciers... money much better spent imo.
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08/05/2026 9:31 am
I totally agree with your logic about the tank-like bag! Iceland is absolutely amazing but the weather and terrain are super rough on gear. I always go for the most protection possible because honestly, I am so paranoid about dropping my stuff on those wet rocks...
- Definitely prioritize the extra padding and security because those winds can literally knock you over!
- It feels so much better knowing your camera is safe if the bag takes a tumble.
- Also, make sure it has a really good rain cover included. Safety is basically the most important thing when you are traveling with expensive gear. That extra bulk is totally worth the peace of mind while you are hiking near the waterfalls! Better safe than sorry, especially when you are so far from home.
