Omg you seriously need to check out the Tenba Axis V2 32L Backpack! I love how rigid those dividers are... they wont ever collapse on your R5 and heavy 70-200. Its such a life saver for long days trekking around NYC! Honestly it feels like a total tank but looks way cooler. The protection is also totally amazing for when the weather gets gross! Youre gonna love it!

Man, I feel your pain. Carrying an R5 with heavy glass in a bag that cant hold its shape is a recipe for a bad day. I had the same issue with my 70-200mm until I moved to a more serious setup. For NYC, you want something that stays slim but keeps its form when youre on the subway or weaving through crowds. Honestly, I've been super satisfied with the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II Modular Camera Backpack. It works well because the dividers are much stiffer than your average bag. They use this molded foam that doesnt just collapse when things get heavy. I've had zero complaints with how it handles the weight of my kit over the last year.

• The back panel is actually comfortable for long walks around the city.
• It comes with an All Weather cover tucked in the bottom for rain.
• Multiple access points so you can grab the R5 from the side quickly. The 70-200mm fits perfectly inside without making the bag bulge or the dividers buckle under the weight. Ngl, it looks a bit tactical, but the protection is top notch. If you want something more low-key for street stuff, I also really like the Wandrd PRVKE 21L Photo Bundle with Camera Cube. It handles weather like a champ and the 21L size is perfect for an R5 and two lenses. Both are well under your $250 limit too. You wont regret getting something with a bit more structure... it makes a massive difference for your back.

Regarding what #1 said about "Man, I feel your pain. Carrying an R5..."

• I totally agree. I once had a divider fail in Central Park and my lens took a dive... terrifying. Are you wanting a backpack or a messenger for the subway?
• Think Tank Photo StreetWalker V2.0 Backpack is built like a tank.
• It holds a 70-200mm vertically without the dividers sagging.
• Fits your $250 budget perfectly.

Re: Regarding what #1 said about Man, I feel...

• I totally get it. Honestly, the thought of a heavy 70-200mm hitting the pavement because of a weak divider makes me physically cringe. In my experience, you cant trust those soft, mushy dividers that come in generic bags. If you want something that basically acts like a safe for your R5 while youre navigating NYC, here are a couple quick tips:
• Always go for rear-access. If the main zipper is against your back, nobody can get into your gear while youre on the subway.
• Test the divider density before you commit. If you can squish the foam easily with two fingers, it wont hold up under heavy glass. Ive tried many bags over the years and the MindShift Gear FirstLight 30L is a total tank. The dividers are super stiff and dont sag at all, even with the R5 and a heavy lens. Its way more reliable than those trendy packs and fits your budget perfectly.