......
ps-if you have some massive case that you just love, feel free to let me know, but i am definitely looking for something on the smaller side.
I think there are two types of cases. One that you use to transport equipment and one for use while you are using the equipment. If you have abunch of other luggage or equipment You don't want a camera case that requires special handling. You want one that you can toss in the van first and then not worry if that 50 pound box gets trown on top of the camera.
I mostly use two things
1) a "Wrap" from either Domke or Calumat. These are just 18" or 14" squares of slightly paded nyl;on with verlcro corners. They are inexpensive. put on around the camera or a lens or a strobe befor I toss it into #2 below
2) I have a few Pelican cases. I buy then empty with no foam. These are very sturdy and will take some serious abuse. (You can put these in a truck and then load other stuff on top)
Some other times I'll use a standard Domke bag and put the whole bag in the pelican case. Later I can leave the case some place and carry the lighter bag. But mostly I don't take so much camera gear that I need a bag
When the camera is inside the pelican case the wraps fill of the airspace and keep the gear fom rattling around inside and when thegear is outside the case the wraps are enough to keep bumps and scratches off the camera and I can stuff the wrape ina pocket or some place and make it disappear
Both Calumat and Domke make and sell "wraps" the calumet ones are a little bit thicker