DV Info Net - VIXIA HF20 and WP-V1 Waterproof Case

Howdy folks,

I'm in the market for a camera that I can shoot travel docs with. The last time I was on the road I lugged around a Canon XL1 and while I was happy with it the size of the camera leaves much to be desired if I decide to do any hiking. On my next foray on the road I will be bringing with me snorkeling gear as well as a kayak so I needed something waterproof.

I came across the above mentioned package from Canon. The VIXIA HF20 with a WP-V1 Waterproof Case both selling at very reasonable prices considering most underwater housings run almost double what this combined package would cost. Now I'm no Jacques Cousteau so I really don't want anything over the top fancy but I don't want to buy any junk either.

My needs include the ability to shoot in HD. (I can't be more specific as I am still familiarizing myself with the technology) Underwater/waterproof housing. Transportability for multi-night treks into the bush.

Basically I'm traveling in an old VW bus touring different countries. It's a simple setup with just me and possibly one other person but not always. During these trips I will hike into areas like the Copper Canyon in Mexico, kayak Baja California and snorkel the Belizean reefs. I need to protect the camera in the event the kayak tips or if I get hit with a rainstorm out in the bush. I also want to protect the camera from dust and dirt.

Does anyone have any experience using this equipment? Do you have any recommendations for other gear that you would bring along such as filters, tripods, monopods, wireless mics, etc. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Scott