A field bag is an essential tool for every birder to carry the proper gear, from a favorite field guide to binocular accessories to a basic notebook to snacks, but which field bag can best meet your needs for the supplies you prefer to carry? Different types of field bags work best for different types of birders, and understanding different styles can help you choose the bag that will be your constant birding companion.

Field Bag Designs

While there are as many different types of field bags as there are different birds in the world, there are just a few basic bag designs to choose from.

• One-Shoulder Bags: A bag tossed over one shoulder, with a long strap for easy carrying and easily accessible pockets, is one of the most popular choices among birders. These bags come in a wide range of sizes and may have both interior compartments and exterior pockets, and typically feature either a zipper or flap closure. If this bag is heavy with different birding supplies, however, it can swing and disrupt balance.

• Belt Packs: Belt or waist packs are generally smaller but can still have multiple pockets and pouches, and they have the added advantage of leaving a birder's hands completely free without needing to hitch or adjust straps. Belt packs may not fit easily around thick sweaters or coats, however, and may not be as useful for winter birding when heavier clothing must be worn.

• Backpacks: A backpack can have either large or small capacity with a wide range of pockets, but because they are meant to be worn over both shoulders, those pockets are less accessible at a moment's notice to consult a field guide or write quick notes in a birding journal. This type of bag can be useful for a birder who plans long hiking or who prefers to take along a picnic or other supplies that won't be used as frequently.

• Vests: Vests designed for birders have a wide range of pockets in varied sizes, and may have pockets both on the outside and inside of the garment. Easily worn over a coat or shirt, vests are convenient for birders who don't like to carry a bag, and with pockets on each side, the vest can easily be balanced with the weight that is carried.

• Cargo Pants: Cargo pants or shorts with deep pockets are another garment that can take the place of a traditional field bag. Generally, the pockets closer to the thighs are the larger, more frequently used pockets, while pockets toward the knees or on the lower legs are meant for less frequently accessed items.

In addition to these types of bags and bag-like clothes, other bags can serve as birding field bags. Camera bags are ideal for birder-photographers, while large scope cases can have extra pockets for additional supplies.

Bag Features to Consider

Even though there may be only a few basic types of field bags, the designs of different bags from different manufacturers and retailers vary widely and there are many options and features to consider. When choosing between bags for your birding needs, pay attention to:

• General size and overall capacity
• Location and size of pockets and pouches
• Fabric and material choices for comfort and durability
• Closure and fasteners such as hooks, snaps and zippers
• Strap length, adjustability and comfort
• Colors and patterns
• Waterproofing or UV treatments for field and hunting applications
• Cost and any warranty information

The most important thing to consider when choosing a field bag is your own birding style. If you prefer more casual walks, a basic bag without many features may be suitable, but if high intensity birding and detailed records are your ideal birding days, a larger, more complex bag that can keep you more organized may be best.

Using Multiple Bags

Many birders not only own different field bags, but may use more than one at a time. A birding vest and cargo pants can make a complete outfit with plenty of storage, or a small backpack for supplies paired with a belt pack for immediate and easy access is useful in the field without getting overly bulky. Multiple bags allows you to carry more equipment so you are never without the tools you need, and you can more easily distribute the weight of binoculars, field guides, a bottle of water and other supplies without creating strain on one part of the body.

Being a prepared birder means having the proper supplies available at all times, and understanding the different types of field bags and the pros and cons of each one is an essential step in being properly equipped in the field.

Photo – Birders and Their Bags © Travelian