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I'm determined to bring full kit to the B-dub, I have both Pelican case and 450cc photographers backpack. The Pelican would clearly be the most secure....but very heavy and bulky. The backpack would be the clear choice for portages but how to keep the contents dry from bilge water or flipping. What would you suggest?

Although they are heavy and bulky like you said, I don't think you can beat the protection of a Pelican case. I bring a large one on all my canoe trips. It's a total pain in the butt, but I don't ever have to worry about my gear getting wet or damaged. How much gear are you bringing? In my Pelican Case (sorry I can't remember which one it is) I pack a D3s body, D700 body, 70-200 lens, 24-70 lens, 105 macro lens, flash and some peripherals. Like I said it's huge but I think I'd be too worried about my stuff getting damaged. If you are set on the backpack route, what about a Seal Line Pack? They come in all sizes and are waterproof

Seal Line

My kit was D90 with 400mm f5.6, D750 with 70-200 f4, 28mm f1.8, 90mm macro, assorted other accesories. Ended up utilizing both pelican on travel day and backpack on actual shooting. Backpack ended up in huge plastic bag as it was calm and clear, I was solo and was confident with my abilities. I agree the pelican case was useful and I will likely use a similar strategy in future. I felt it was safest to separate travel time and photo time, missed a number of loon shots, but that just gives me an excuse to return.