Sony HVR-V1P - Different Mic
 

I am a frequent traveller and a major purpose in travelling is making a video of the trip. I have been doing it for 16 years. I have recently purchased a Sony HVR-V1P. A very nice camera but difficult to carry. I am trying to reduce the size of the bag required by exchanging the microphone for a compact model. A smaller, lighter bag will make a big difference on a two month trip.
My question is in two parts. Firstly, can someone recommend a bag. By the way, I live in Australia.
Secondly, I would welcome any discussion/recommendations on what other mic I may use. I was looking at a very compact mic that fitted the shoe and measured perhaps 2.5 x 2 in (60 x 50 mm), but I have lost the thread. I have a vague idea it was a Sony mic but cannot locate it now. I think the cost was about $150.
I am aware that the quality of my sound may suffer somewhat, but I have found over the years that I use very little native sound as it is generally little more than noise.
Thanks for your help.
John A