The Camelbak HAWG MG is a very versatile hydration backpack as reviewed previously. Unfortunately, it’s just a tad bulky for short trips. Enter the Camelbak Ambush.

The bottom storage compartment is just large enough to fit a Canon 400D DSLR. And the top storage compartment fits a medium sized lens along with a few other small items. You’re not going to be able to carry any additional clothing or snacks with this backpack, but then that’s defying my definition of traveling light.

Compared to the HAWG, it’s about 66% smaller in depth and 25% smaller in width. Obviously the HAWG is the better choice if you plan on traveling with a number of lenses, but I find the Ambush to be more of my everyday backpack.

In preparation for our family cruise to the Mediterranean, I picked up a Camelbak HAWG MG backpack. The thought process was that I could provide water to my pregnant wife, hold my camera + lenses, and keep a sweater available. It certainly lived up to expectations.

In addition, I picked up a Domke Camera Insert to hold my DSLR and two lenses.  The size fits perfectly in the backpack. But be forewarned that the bottom of the insert is not padded. I left a shirt at the bottom of the backpack to remedy the little shortcoming.

The additional storage compartments are good too. Enough to hold a flashgun, a Giattos cleaner, keys, and some other miscellaneous items that Mary wanted me to carry for her. I also used the MOLLE straps to hold two additional sacks. It’s definitely an expandable backpack for those gear intensive travels.

With all this gear in/attached to it, the HAWG MG was actually quite comfortable to wear. It sit’s high on your back and feels like it’s a part of you. You can feel the coolness of the reservoir on your back a bit, which is great on a hot summer day. And you sweat is wicked away from the special back material.

All in all, I’d say it’s the perfect backpack for traveling and having 4 liters of water strapped to your back (or 5 with the better bottle filled up).