photography camera travel backpack

The Best Travel Camera Cases and Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your cameras and lenses organized and protected while on the go

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TripSavvy / Debbie Wolfe

Cameras are still essential travel gear, but unlike flip-flops and toiletries, cameras require special handling and, ideally, a dedicated camera case. If you’re hitting the road (or tarmac) with expensive camera gear, it’s worth investing in a camera-specific travel bag or case that not only protects your investment but has a home for each camera, lens, and accessory you might bring along.

To help you find the perfect travel camera case, we had more than a dozen testers get hands-on with 21 of the most popular camera-specific travel cases and narrowed it down to our nine favorites. We reviewed bags on their design, layout, comfort when carrying, and even tested the waterproofing on bags that advertised it. These nine travel camera cases fit different niches within the category, giving you a wide range of options since not all photographers and videographers travel the same.

Our favorite camera bag overall was the Thule Aspect because of its smart design and layout and its minimalist, streamlined style in a size that should work for most photographers on the go. And because it doesn’t scream “photo case,” it can be used as an everyday pack even when leaving the camera gear at home. Read on for more about the Aspect and the eight other camera cases our testers found were worthy of your consideration.

TripSavvy's Picks

Other camera cases we tested, how we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, thule camera bag backpack.

Camera accessible while wearing

The understated design doesn't scream "camera bag"

Fits under airline seats

No cover, not fully waterproof

While they’re not an endemic camera brand and are probably best known for their ubiquitous roof racks and bike carriers, Sweden’s Thule makes exceptional camera luggage. Their XX-liter Aspect strikes an outstanding balance of simplicity and functionality and is unassuming enough to work great as an everyday carry pack even if your camera stays at home. The primary camera and lens storage area has a convenient side entry zip and enough space for a DSLR body with a lens attached and two to three additional lenses and accessories. Our testers loved the placement of this side access compartment because it’s accessible without removing the pack to unzip and pull the camera out quickly if needed.

You can easily rearrange the padded internal dividers to fit your specific gear needs, and there’s a mesh zippered pocket on the inside of the opening flap to hold loose items such as extra batteries and cables close at hand. The top-access compartment provides a separate area to carry extra equipment if you’re gear-heavy or miscellaneous non-camera gear, such as layers, snacks, and water. The laptop sleeve holds up to 15-inch laptops or tablets and is roomy enough that you don’t have to fight to get your device in properly, like some similar sleeves. Like most camera bags, your tripod storage is along the side and uses a mesh pocket and strap to secure it.

The Aspect is water-resistant, not waterproof, but stood up to direct water exposure in our testing. It also wears like a standard daypack and has a sternum strap and substantial hip belt if you fully load the pack. The hip belt also has mesh quick-storage built-in, so you don’t have to overload pockets with things like lens caps and batteries when you’re in the thick of shooting. There’s plenty of room for gear for your average photographer, but the size and shape are small enough to fit under most airplane seat storage areas, so you don’t have to worry about contents shifting during flight.

Capacity: XX liters | Weight: 3.2 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15.6-inch | Materials: 100 percent nylon

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Peak design everyday backpack 20l.

Peak Design

Innovative design touches

On-body access

Pricier than similarly sized bags

Peak Design started as a Kickstarter launch, and their camera bags and accessories are now some of the most sought-after camera equipment. Their Everyday Backpack (now in its second iteration) isn’t just another camera backpack and has loads of intelligent design features you’d expect from Peak Design. Our tester appreciated the ambidextrous side access that lets you into the main compartment from either side by removing one arm from the shoulder strap and slinging the bag around to your front. Inside, Peak’s innovative, origami-like FlexFold dividers keep your camera items from bumping into each other. 

The side-access panels have zippers, but the top flap closes with a dead-quiet MagLatch closure that can clamp down less or more depending on how full that compartment is. The laptop sleeve holds up to a 16-inch size but can be adjusted for smaller computers so they don’t fall down, making them harder to dig for. We tested the 20-liter model, but for a modest additional $20, you can get the same pack in a 30-liter version if you carry more gear than average. If you occasionally need even more capacity, stowaway external carry straps permit multiple configurations for lashing things like jackets, tents, or whatever your adventures call for. There are smart travel features as well. The pack’s back has a sleeve that slides over a roller bag’s handle, and there’s a quick stash top pocket for miscellanies such as phones, chargers, and passports.

Capacity: 20 liters | Weight: 4.43 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 16-inch | Materials: 400D recycled plastic

Tripsavvy / Robert Caponetto

Best Budget

Bagsmart photo camera backpack.

Stylish non-techy look

Built-in rain cover

The top compartment lacks padding

Despite being one of the few bags we tested that retails for less than $100, this is a stylish backpack you could use for everyday carry without anyone knowing you're wearing a camera pack. Our tester said, "It looks like a nice, modern backpack that doesn't scream, 'I have expensive equipment in here!'" Inside the water-resistant canvas, however, is a large lower compartment with padded dividers that holds a camera with a lens attached and three to four additional lenses or other gear items. And like more expensive camera bags, there's a side access pocket that lets you quickly grab your camera while keeping the bag slung on one shoulder.

The expandable top compartment captures the rest of your stuff with a water-resistant cinch top beneath the canvas flap that closes securely with belt-like leather straps. Side pouches with elastic hold water bottles or tripods, and the laptop sleeve keeps your computer up to 15 inches secure against your back. The canvas is water-resistant but also has a pull-out cover in case the weather takes a serious turn.

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: Not listed | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15-inch | Materials: Canvas

TripSavvy / Abby Mercer

Peak Design Everyday Sling

Easy on-body access

High durable exterior

Collapsible for travel

Not fully waterproof

If you want to travel light with a stripped-down camera gear kit, a bag or pack can be overkill, making it harder to access what you need. For situations like this, I’ve used an earlier version of Peak Design’s 6-liter Everyday Sling for years, and it’s durable enough that it still looks like new. The updated version remains largely unchanged but comes in additional sizes (you can get it in 3-, 6-, or 10-liter versions) and new color options. The latest version also adds more durable zippers and uses recycled materials. The 6-liter is only big enough to hold a tablet, but you can use the external carry straps to bring a tripod when necessary.

The collapsible sling is thick, padded, and fairly stiff and can flatten enough to store inside a larger suitcase. Alternatively, you could pack the smaller sling sizes with your gear and place it inside other luggage to keep your equipment protected in transit and ready to be deployed for lighter trips at your destination. Our tester loved carrying the smaller pack when traveling, taking just enough equipment, and quickly swinging it around to access gear.

Capacity: 3-liter, 6-liter (tested), 10-liter | Weight: 1.72 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 11-inch tablet | Materials: 400D recycled plastic canvas

TripSavvy / Mariah Tyler

Most Durable

Neewer rolling camera backpack.

Three carry options

Large capacity

Attached rain cover

Shoulder straps aren't removable

If you carry a lot of gear, many travel camera packs can make you feel cramped trying to fit Speedlites, large telephotos, and extra camera bodies. Not an issue with Neewer’s luggage-style roller bag that converts to a backpack and also has a regular suitcase carry handle and plenty of interior room and is rated to handle over 120 pounds of gear. The non-removable wheels and telescoping handle give your back a break when navigating airports and city streets, but the backpack straps (including a waist belt) let you go off-road when needed.

Our tester loved the solid structure and substantial padding to protect their gear and felt the bag could withstand drops and other abuse in transit. The exterior is made from waterproof nylon but has an attached rain cover, just in case. This extra-large backpack is just small enough to fit in overhead storage on a plane, but our tester found a few downsides. Because of the size and weight, it’s not the most comfortable for long-term wear as a backpack, and the backpack straps aren’t removable to prevent snagging when used as a roller bag.

Capacity: 60-kilogram weight-rated | Weight: 9.43 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15-inch | Materials: Nylon

TripSavvy / Jacob Fox

Best Organization

Think tank photo airport security.

Extra-durable exterior

Lots of interior space

Meets carry-on size requirement

You expect durability with “tank” in the brand name, but this airline-ready roller carry-on bag should withstand nearly anything with ballistic-grade waterproof nylon outside and heavy padding. Think Tank designed this bag to meet US and international carry-on requirements, but there’s still tons of room inside, and our tester loaded it up with two bodies and large lenses and still had about 20 percent of the volume left unused. Think Tank’s highest-capacity roller bag accommodates up to 600 millimeters of telephoto lenses.

There’s a laptop compartment that will hold up to a 17-inch device, but otherwise, the bag is essentially one giant equipment compartment with tons of dividers, giving you maximum flexibility to arrange the bag to hold your specific gear configuration. While you could fit smaller tripods inside, the bag has tripod-specific straps for exterior carry and a TSA-approved padlock and cable lock for theft prevention. Our tester loved the build and durability, but the downside is that the pack is heavy, which gets magnified when fully loaded, so you’ll want to use the rolling wheels whenever possible to avoid carrying the total weight.

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 12.76 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 17-inch | Materials: 1680D ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Victor Protasio

Most Comfortable

Lowepro protactic 450 aw.

Armored build

Lots of available accessories to attach

Ergonomic build for all-day comfort

For long days shooting in the field, you want a comfortable, ergonomic backpack, and it’s no surprise that a brand with backpacking roots makes our Most Comfortable pick. Colorado-born Lowe Alpine made the first internal frame backpacking pack, and they’ve been making camera-specific years for over 50 years. The ProTactic 450 AW is for adventurous photographers who need to keep their pack on over countless miles and long days with ActiveZone support that uses firm but supportive padding that leaves room for airflow against your back. Our tester specifically called out the extra-wide waist strap for putting the weight on their hips where it belongs instead of the shoulders. Beyond simple padding, the ProTactic 450 employs FormShell construction lands it somewhere between a backpack and hard-sided luggage.

Everything about the ProTactic 450 AW says “tactical,” and its webbing-wrapped exterior permits attachment of LowePro’s many sold-separately SlipLock accessories, such as pouches for water bottles, phone, and other accessories. Included straps and a tripod cup securely attach to the outside. Despite being stiff and armored, there are four ways into the main compartment for easy access to your gear, no matter where the pack is.

Capacity: 25 liters | Weight: 6.26 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15-inch | Materials: Not listed

TripSavvy / Gregory Dupree

Best Storage

Nomatic mckinnon camera pack.

High volume

Very expensive

Helpful accessory pouches not included

Salt Lake City-based luggage company Nomatic likely paired with popular YouTube photographer/videographer Peter McKinnon partly because of his massive following, but the 35-liter McKinnon Camera Pack has developed a loyal following of its own. The pack stands out for its ruggedly urban looks and enormous storage capacity, expandable up to 42 liters to accommodate lots of content creation gear but a few days' worth of clothes and basics. The TPU-coated 900D nylon is rugged and waterproof, forming a durable armor that's still flexible enough to feel like a backpack and retain some flexibility despite ample padding everywhere. 

We tested the Nomatic pack in the field, and both testers appreciated how the pack forms to your back and the extra padding in the shoulder straps to ease the weight when fully loaded. Like an excellent backpacking pack, the shoulder straps also have load-lifter straps to help position the weight on your shoulders, and sternum and waist straps help distribute the weight more evenly. The pack is heavy compared to backpacking packs, and it needs to be to pad and protect your equipment, but it's light for its capacity compared to other high-volume camera bags we tested. Even for such a nice pack, the price is high, so we wished Nomatic threw in a few helpful accessory pouches and packing cubes that are part of the McKinnon camera gear line.

Capacity: 35 liters (expands to 42L) | Weight: 5.75 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 16-inch | Materials: EVA back panels, 900D TPU-coated nylon  exterior, Hypalon lashing points

TripSavvy / Henry Wortock

Our testers loved the Thule Aspect and the Peak Design Everyday 20L packs for their streamlined profiles and photography-specific builds packed with many innovative features. While the Peak Design bag has tons of unique features we loved, the Thule Aspect edged it out just barely by having a more accessible price point, making it an excellent option for pros and casual photographers alike. We also got most of the same features out of the surprisingly capable Bagsmart Photo Camera Backpack, which has most of the features we loved in pricier packs but was the only one of our picks that retails for less than $100.

Thule Covert 32L Camera Pack : This well-designed, high-capacity pack is an excellent option for balancing personal and camera gear storage via a removable camera pod that works as a sling. However, we felt Thule Aspect was a better option for most travelers, thanks to a much lower price point. Pros who want more storage and versatility should consider the Covert if they find the Aspect too small or simplistic.

Manfrotto Advanced III Rolling Camera Bag : This basic camera roller bag ticks most of the boxes on paper, but our tester found the padding lacking and expected more storage from a carry-on-sized piece of luggage.

Think Tank Photo Airport Accelerator Backpack : Our tester loved this bag's size and build quality, but other options in this category edged it out by having more carry options to ease the burden of carrying a higher volume of gear.

Boundary Prima System : We loved the design and modularity of this pack and its components but wished there wasn't an extra charge to make it waterproof and that they included more parts of their system.

Manfrotto MB MA2-BP-GM Advanced² Gear M Camera and Laptop Backpack : We appreciated the comfort and design of this pack despite lacking a hip belt, but felt it was a bit small for travel since there isn't much space dedicated to clothes and personal items.

Wandrd PRVKE : We tested the 21-liter size, and our professional photographer tester felt there wasn't enough gear storage for most pros. We also felt the price was high, especially considering the additional cost of including the "essential" photography bundle.

Brevite The Jumper Camera Backpack : This stylish, small backpack scored high marks from our tester for being lightweight and easy to carry. It comes in many bright solid colors and could be an excellent choice for someone with a streamlined kit.

Hex Ranger DSLR Sling V2 : This is a more modestly priced sling than our Best Sling pick from Peak Design that could be an excellent option for photographers that don't want to spend over $100 on a camera sling. Compared to the Peak Design sling, it lacks some structure and durability but is about half the cost.

Bellroy Venture Sling 10L: This oversized sling got high marks from our NY-based tester, who loved the quality, design, and ease of use while walking around for street photography.

Tenba DNA 16 Pro Messenger Ba g: If you prefer the ease of access of a shoulder-slung bag like this, the Tenba may be a great fit as a day trip bag, though our tester wished it was a tad smaller.

Lo & Sons Claremont : While it's not for everyone, this shoulder bag looks like an oversized purse and has some basic camera-specific design touches—an excellent choice for someone who wants a camera bag that's a bit chic.

ONA The Bowery Messenger Bag : Another stylish, purse-like shoulder camera bag. Our tester loved the style and could fit her entire kit inside but felt the price was too high.

Gatta Rae Noir : Another leather purse/shoulder bag option. Stylish and reasonably priced but bulky for travel and better-suited for day shoots closer to home for photographers that want a stylish bag.

Poler Elevated Camera Cooler: A fun, lunch tote-style camera bag that converts to a light-duty lunch cooler after removing the padded dividers. A more unisex option for folks that want a shoulder carry day bag for a small camera kit.

More than a dozen recreational and professional testers took 21 camera bags out around their home bases and on road and air travel trips. Testers spent time customizing the travel bag’s organization and trying different configurations. They then took the bags into the field, testing for ease of use and accessibility of gear while worn and comfort in transit. 

We also tested the weatherproofing of the bags when present by taking them out in bad weather when possible and spraying them down at home to gauge how well they keep gear dry. Testers examined zippers, fasteners, pockets, storage compartments, and special features for durability and ease of use.

What to Look for When Buying a Travel Case for Camera

Camera bag makers use various materials to achieve their design goals, and there’s no “best” material to watch when evaluating your camera bag options. Some bags use fabrics such as nylon, and many employ coatings such as DWR or rubbery TPU to give them weather resistance. Many manufacturers will list the Denier rating of fabric, and if durability is important to you, look for exterior materials with higher Denier numbers. However, remember that higher Deniers are usually heavier, bulkier, and less flexible.

Most backpacks and camera bags measure storage volume in liters, which can be a useful way to compare the size of different bags when shopping online. We tested some slings 10 liters or less in volume, and most packs fell between 20 and 40 liters. While you can undoubtedly buy camera bags and cases larger than this, they become too big to carry on and fall more into the luggage category than travel bags. When choosing a bag size for your travels with camera gear, consider not only the amount of camera gear you need to transport but any personal items, such as clothing, computers, hard drives, water, snacks, etcetera, that you’ll want to include to estimate the volume that’s right for you.

Additional Features

With most photographers operating in the digital world, most camera bags have a slot for a laptop, and we’ve included the maximum laptop size for any bags with that feature. If you usually employ a tripod, look for bags with a dedicated tripod storage solution. More advanced bags will often have special, smaller compartments for odds and ends that photographers carry, such as memory cards, hard drives, batters, filters, and more. 

All but one of our picks above cost over $100, and camera bags are generally more expensive than comparably sized backpacks and bags because they include extra features and materials used to organize and protect your gear. You can expect to pay $150 up to $400 for a high-quality, higher-volume camera-specific pack though smaller bags and slings will generally cost less.

Cleaning and care for camera bags will vary from model to model and brand to brand, but your best bet is to spot clean whenever possible. Waterproof bags can be easier to clean as they repel water, resist stains more readily, and can also be sprayed down if they get dirty. A few bags are machine-washable, but always consult manufacturer recommendations on how to clean individual bags.

Smaller bags can qualify as personal items, and several of our picks will meet size requirements for carry-ons for domestic flights. Because these requirements can vary depending on your location, destination, and airline carrier, it always makes sense to consult your airline’s specific requirements and fees before you fly.

When traveling with camera gear, bringing any equipment you might need for a particular trip or a photo shoot is a good idea. While no one wants to lug around more gear than they expect to use, it can be expensive, difficult, or even impossible to replace items you didn’t bring when you’re far from home. If you’re like me and prefer to overpack camera gear, get a bigger pack than you think you need.

Also, anticipate your non-camera needs, such as extra clothes, personal electronics, and food/beverage considerations. If you want one pack to hold everything, choose a camera bag that holds more than just camera gear. Especially when dealing with food and liquids, it’s a good idea to have separate compartments for personal and camera items.

Over 15 years as a professional photographer and videographer, Justin Park has tested and owned dozens of camera bags and cases for both work and play. He has employed and destroyed slings, backpacks, and hard cases filming Olympic games and backcountry sporting events such as mountain bike races and ultramarathons, including Colorado’s Leadville 100.

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Photography Guides & Gear Reviews

Best Camera Backpacks in 2024 (In-Depth User Tests)

What’s the most efficient way to carry your camera gear? Discover the ultimate camera backpack for your DSLR or mirrorless camera in my real-world tests.

Bag Guides | Camera Gear Guides | By Mark Condon | Last Updated: February 22, 2024

After spending 150+ hours testing, these are the best camera backpacks on the market right now.

This guide has already been viewed thousands of times by photographers and filmmakers from all over the world.

Finding the best backpack to carry your photo gear isn’t an easy task, but I think I’ve found the ideal one for most people:

Award-winning camera backpack with unrivalled features, robust build and all-round good looks.

If you’re anything like me, you’ll never settle on just one camera bag – finding the perfect backpack is a never-ending quest.

Whether you’re looking for the camera backpack for travel or just something for everyday use, there’s something here for you.

To save you time, I’ve tested and reviewed a bunch of options to handpick the very best.

These are the results of my tests.

Table of Contents

What is the Best Camera Backpack in 2024?

1. peak design everyday backpack v2 | #1 edc backpack for photographers.

Capacity: 30L (-8) | Dimensions: 24.5 x 14.2 x 7.8 in (62 x 36 x 19.8cm) | Weight: 4.65 lb (2.11 kg) | Peak Design Everyday Backpack Review

I remember being sent the first version of the Peak Design photographer backpack several years ago, and immediately fell in love with its uniqueness – there simply wasn’t anything remotely like it. Fast forward to today, and with version 2, Peak Design has addressed the few niggles we had with the original version, cementing this as the number one choice. Fundamentally, it’s an everyday backpack with camera compartment spaces you customise based on your gear and needs. While other mirrorless and DSLR backpacks offer something similar, I still haven’t found anything better than Peak’s versatile FlexFold dividers.

Peak Design recently updated its hugely successful Everyday Bag lineup and with it the Everyday Backpack. In our tests, we chose this as the top backpack for photographers of the year.

The build quality is still excellent, with a 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell, 900D waterproof bottom liner, anodized aluminium/glass-reinforced nylon and durable ‘UltraZips’.

To top it all off, everything is made from 100% recycled post-consumer material! In fact, Peak Design are climate neutral certified , aiming to reduce emissions from within its operations and supply chain.

If you already own the V1, no matter when you bought it, I’m guessing it’s still in good condition – such is the build quality of these bags. Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is similarly built to last.

Without the internal dividers, you’re looking at around 3.8lbs (1.7 kg), but adding them in brings the weight of the 30L version to 4.65 lb (2.11 kg). This isn’t heavy for a 30L backpack with this many features, but it definitely isn’t light either.

Give some thought about how you intend to pack it, and whether you need it to be within any strict airline carry-on luggage allowances, and you should be fine.

Sliding the backpack around to your front to gain side access is fast and efficient.

I always found the padded shoulder straps on the V1 fine, but apparently, some people complained… so Peak updated everything for the Everyday Backpack V2.

Even when fully loaded, it feels great on the shoulders and back, and adjusting things while the bag is on your back is simple.

It’s important for the best photography backpack to be comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded with your camera gear. Fortunately, this one hits the mark.

Available in black, charcoal, ash and a brand new ‘midnight’ colour, this may be the hardest decision you have to make when buying a new camera backpack!

The all-black variant is my favourite, but the other colours include brown leather accents, which really add a certain something.

The Everyday Backpack V2 is without a doubt very modern (futuristic?) looking, resembling some kind of rocket pack strapped to your back.

This will definitely appeal to many, but I imagine for some, it can be a little too much.

The 30L version fits 2 full-size cameras and 4-5 lenses, a 15-inch laptop, 10-inch tablet, and lots of pockets and pouches for accessories. I also like the 20L version (reviewed below), but it’s more suited to smaller setups (obviously), and hence, not quite as versatile.

With the 20L version, I managed to fit a Fujifilm X-Pro3 and a handful of the best Fuji X lenses to go with it (all primes), and still had room for plenty of small accessories and my sandwiches.

The capacity on both sizes of Everyday Backpacks can be collapsed or expanded – on this 30L version, the collapsed capacity is 22L, while on the 20L version it’s 17L. Changing size is simple and quick, using the re-designed MagLatch system.

The 20L is my choice of best EDC camera backpack – there’s more than enough room for everyday carry essentials and it’s easy to get at everything.

Unique Features

(Clockwise from left): Customizable flex fold dividers; Improved Maglatch closure; Magnetic shoulder straps; adjustable laptop sleeve.

Remember that this is the camera backpack that introduced the world to various features, which have since been ‘borrowed’ by other brands.

Let’s start from the sides, with two ‘UltraZips’which run the entire length of the flanks, opening easily with one hand – Peak Design’s weatherproof zips are easily the best I’ve come across, and those on the Everyday Backpack V2 are even smoother than before.

The MagLatch on the front is more ergonomic and sleek than the V1 and can be opened/adjusted easily with a quick tug. This may not have all the hipster-value of a roll-top for increasing carry capacity, but it’s far more practical and fast. You can also do it one-handed.

The internals feature customisable ‘FlexFold’ dividers – basically padded origami ‘shelves’ for your gear, all attachable by some mysterious hook and loop material that never pulls the ‘receiving’ fabric off. One thing to note – the padding on the dividers is quite minimal.

The 15″ protective laptop sleeve has a unique adjustable feature, making sure those with smaller laptops can easily retrieve their device, without having to ‘fish’ for it.

On the outside, there are 4 external carry straps for cinching down bulkier items like jackets, via a unique Cord Hook system – I never use it but it’s nice to have it there all tucked away neatly for times of need.

Finally, there’s a luggage pass-through, which doubles as a bit of extra back padding, and a place to store the straps when not in use.

Ease of Use

Dual-side access points provide fast, one-handed entry. Zippers are smooth and durable. Adjusting straps is quick. It’s dead easy to get your gear in and out of the Everyday Backpack V2.

The only small niggle is that the zippers on the inside of the side access panel aren’t completely covered when stowed, meaning it can come in contact with your gear.

Value for Money

At around $290 for the 30L version, we’re in premium camera and lens backpack territory… but not overly so. For a product that will last a lifetime without looking like it’s made for the army, I think it’s still good value for money and covered by Peak’s excellent lifetime warranty.

There’s no other camera backpack that looks like this. You’ll get compliments and questions from any tech nerd who hasn’t seen one before, but that’s arguably very few people. Using it will make you feel like you’re from the future.

Also, the midnight blue colourway with brown leather accents is a really unique look.

FINAL SCORE: 80/90

Tap here to check the current price >>

2. WANDRD PRVKE | Best for Travel

Capacity: 31L (+5)| Dimensions: 19 x 12.5 x 7.5 in (48 x 31.7 x 19 cm) | Weight: 3.4 lb (1.5 kg) | Wandrd Prvke review

WANDRD sent one of our writers a pre-production sample of the PRVKE to review, and I was immediately jealous! It seemed to be aimed at travelling hipsters (not me!), but I didn’t care – I simply wanted one. Aside from its cool looks, I love the robust construction and materials used – it can survive a hail storm or even a brief dunk under water – it’s not a completely waterproof camera backpack, but it’s close to it. The size is also perfect for backpacking – I usually opt for bigger bags, but soon regret it – at 31L, this is the best travel camera backpack if you’re judicious with your gear and clothing choices. The roll top comes in handy for bringing home some extra shopping, too.

This is one of the most durable camera backpacks I’ve come across (that doesn’t look like it’s come out of an army surplus store!). Built from waterproof tarpaulin and Robic 1680D Ballistic Nylon with weather-resistant zippers, the Prvke will last a lifetime of abuse when travelling.

For a 31L camera backpack, it’s surprisingly light at 3.4 lb (1.5 kg). There are obviously lighter products on the market in 2024, but none with this level of durable build. The 21L variant (available here) is 2.8 lb (1.3kg), but I recommend sacrificing that extra bit of weight for an additional 10L storage capacity.

The padded shoulder straps and foam back panels distribute the weight nicely, even when fully loaded. Despite being a relatively large 31L, it’s not overwhelming for smaller frames – my wife found it comfortable for travel too.

Available in black, green and blue, this is another hard decision to make. I usually default to an all-black camera backpack, but the ‘wasatch green’ and ‘aegean blue’ look amazing too.

The WANDRD PRVKE has a great minimal look, with branding that’s large but the same colour as the rest of the bag so doesn’t stand out (a similar aesthetic to the Boundary Errant ). The logo on the included rainfly looks great too, as do the trademark tote-style grab handle and oversized buckle.

It’s hard not to use the ‘h’ word when describing roll-top travel backpacks, but this good-looking bag is definitely going to appeal to a certain Instagrammable hipster crowd!

The 31L version accommodates a Medium camera cube, which can house a pro-size DSLR with a lens attached and 3-4 lenses, or 3 small lenses and a flash. If you decide to use the rest of the capacity for camera gear too, you can obviously take much more, but it won’t be well protected by the cube. You can also carry a 15-inch laptop.

With the 21L version, you can fit one lens, a camera, a couple of lenses, and a 13-inch laptop – a perfect travel backpack combo.

The best part of the WANDRD PRVKE is the expandable roll-top, which creates an additional 5 litres of space on top of the quoted sizes.

There’s not a lot going on with this backpack, but it has all you need. My favourite feature is perhaps the simplest – magnetic tote handles that snap together, providing a comfortable and useful grab handle.

The durability of the tarp material is also unique, especially since the backpack isn’t excessively heavy.

There’s also a rainfly hidden away in the base of the backpack, and a handy top pocket for your phone/passport at the upper back, not visible when wearing it.

Getting things in and out of the WANDRD PRVKE is simple. The zippers feel good, but they’re not quite on par with the glidyness of the Peak Design bags.

The roll-top buckle looks like it should be fiddly, but it actually isn’t and is quite fun to use. I also appreciate the velcro on the roll-top fabric for a more secure (water-tight) closure, although the noise when opening could annoy some.

Side access when the backpack is on your back is simple too and can allow a ‘quick-draw ‘when a photo opp presents itself.

The front pocket is a little tight when the bag is fully packed, but you can still squeeze in a tablet or some documents.

At around $204 for the 31L version and $184 for the 21L, the larger capacity PRVKE is definitely the best value.

It’s definitely a premium price tag, but not overly so, and a good deal cheaper than the aforementioned backpack. It’s also covered by WANDRD’s ‘Wander more, worry less’ lifetime, no-questions-asked warranty.

It’s definitely a unique look, and miles apart from any other camera backpack currently on the market. I love its minimal-but-still-present branding, and the overall look of this bag – you’re sure to get compliments and questions.

3. Shimoda Explore | Best Large Camera Backpack for Hiking and Filmmakers

Capacity: 60L | Dimensions: 24 x 11.4 x 11 in (61 x 29 x 28 cm) | Weight: 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) | Shimoda Explore 2 Review

Ian from Shimoda sent me the Explore to review, and I was immediately impressed. You could see that a ton of thought had gone into it, which isn’t surprising given his past experience at F-Stop Gear and his love for both photography and mountaineering. It’s hard to make such a large camera backpack look good, but he’s succeeded – it’s also surprisingly light for its size, and the shoulder straps are the best I’ve ever felt – comfortable, adjustable (more so than others), and lightweight. If you’ve got a ton of gear to haul, this is the best travel camera backpack that’s designed for the mountain but doesn’t look out of place on my back after shooting an overseas wedding.

Construction quality is top-notch. Coated nylon exterior similar to mountaineering bags feels tough and rip-proof, and shoulder straps feel secure, an essential feature for a good camera backpack for hiking.

Despite being the biggest camera backpack in this review, the Shimoda Explore 60 still remains relatively lightweight. Obviously, the (empty) weight will vary depending on the modular accessories you add to it, but these are all lightweight too.

Feels like a hug from a good friend! The fit can be tailored via height-adjustable padded shoulder straps. The hip strap is one of the comfiest I’ve used on any hiking backpack. EVA compression moulding in straps feels like a child standing on your shoulders wearing Nike Air shoes…amazing.

It’s hard to make a hiking camera backpack look cool, but Shimoda has managed it. Designed by the ex-lead designer of F-Stop Gear, it’s easy to see why. My wife’s first reaction: “I love the colour!”

Both the ‘Blue Nights’ and the ‘Sea Pine’ look like no other bag I’ve seen – really unique tones, tastefully complimented with brown accents on the zipper pulls.

Leather zipper pulls; spacious upper pocket; storage pouches on straps; adjustable strap height.

At 60L, there’s not a lot that can’t fit in the Shimoda Explore! Depending on what modular unit you insert, prepare to shoulder every item of camera kit you own…and then some.

It’s the best video camera backpack for filmmakers, too – the cavernous interior can comfortably house cinema bodies and lenses while still remaining comfortable when fully loaded with heavy filming gear.

The height-adjustable shoulder straps are unique in the way that they can be adjusted – a lot of design consideration has gone into this. The straps themselves are amazingly comfortable with their moulded design.

Hip straps feature cutaways to prevent bone-rub – the first time I’ve seen this on a backpack, and a great feature.

Rear padded portion features some serious padding and a unique design to increase airflow while hiking.

Pockets on front of the shoulder straps are great – one zippered, the other elasticated. Both are large enough to hold a mobile phone.

Easy to slide on and off the body. Getting gear in and out is easy too. The strap system takes a bit of getting used to, but this is to be expected on a technical outdoor/hiking camera backpack.

As with all backpacks that feature a separate internal camera bag, it’s never quite as quick as simply opening the main bag and getting to your gear – you need to unzip the internal one too.

Yes, it’s expensive (see here), but you’re paying for function and years of design experience via F-Stop, and now Shimoda – the cool styling is just an added bonus. Compared to some of the heavy leather camera backpacks costing the same amount or more, this is actually a good value.

Remember to take into account the cost of the modular accessories (the ‘Core Units’) too, though.

This is the first hiking backpack that I want to wear with casual clothes! The colour is really unique, and putting it on and securing it to your body is a joy too. I never expected to want to use a hiking backpack this much.

FINAL SCORE: 78/90

4. Tarion for SLR Cameras | Budget Option – Best Affordable Camera Backpack

Capacity: 20L (+3) | Dimensions: 11.8 x 6 x 17 in (30 x 15 x 43 cm) | Weight:  1.87 lbs / 0.85 kgs

I’ll be honest – this DSLR camera backpack isn’t my taste in looks, but since beauty is in the eye of the beholder, I’ll focus on its main asset – price. While there are a ton of cheap DSLR backpacks on Amazon, this one stands out as having been designed by actual photographers. The padding is ample and the storage options are well thought out.

The Tarion is made from high-strength, tear-resistant nylon and includes an all-weather waterproof rain cover. It definitely feels sturdy, despite being a budget backpack.

At just 1.8 lbs when unloaded, the Tarion is pretty light for its size. It’s also fairly difficult to overload, as the bag’s outer material doesn’t really have much stretch, so if packing light is important to you, this can be useful.

Felt a bit small on my back, but I think it would fit fine on someone smaller or less broad in the back. The padding on the shoulder straps and on the back is ample, so again, it might be great on a smaller person. It doesn’t come with a hip belt, though since the bag itself is light and it’s difficult to overload, this probably wouldn’t be a problem.

I gotta be honest – I’m not too impressed with this budget backpack’s looks. It seems more like a kid’s school bag than a bag I’d like to be seen on the street with or at a shoot with, but for some photographers, this won’t matter.

The Tarion doesn’t hold a huge amount of gear. That’s good if you want to keep things light, but not so good if you travel with multiple cameras/bulky lenses. It fits 1-2 camera bodies (only one with an attached lens), 1 telephoto lens, and 2-4 other lenses. It can also fit a DJI Mavic Pro.

There’s also a pocket for a water bottle, a tripod holder on the bottom and a zippered mesh pocket for storing smaller accessories. The laptop compartment can fit up to a 15″ computer.

The 8 padded dividers allow you to customise the inners to suit your gear and you can remove them all to use it as a daily backpack for carrying larger items. There’s nothing particularly unique about the Tarion, except for its low price and decent quality.

The top access panel combined with the fact that the Tario stands up on its own makes it pretty easy to get at your DSLR. Everything works well on this bag, from the zippers to the straps. No complaints.

At around $60, this bag is excellent value for money. It’s often reduced on Amazon to a very affordable $40, so tap the link below to check.

Style-wise, this bag definitely won’t turn any heads, but perhaps that’s a good thing if you want to remain unseen!

FINAL SCORE: 68/90

5. Peak Design Travel Backpack | Best Travel Camera Backpack for Airline Travel

Capacity: 35L (+10/-5) | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9 in (56 x 33 x 23 cm) | Weight: 4.52 lbs (2.05 kg) | Peak Design Travel Backpack Review

I was sent this travel backpack by Peak Design during its hugely successful Kickstarter campaign and was immediately struck by how sleek and stealthy they’d made it look. If you’re after the best photo backpack for travel that looks like a normal bag (albeit a really cool one), this is it. I also love the way that the entire rear section opens to reveal the contents – no fishing around for missing items. I’m not a fan of how heavy it is, but as long as your airline has lenient carry-on limits, you can still squeeze it onboard, which is what I manage to do every time I fly for overseas work.

100% recycled 400D nylon shell feels tough and rip-proof. Zippers and straps are good quality too. A lifetime guarantee is a welcome addition, especially if you’ll be using this for airline travel.

This is the only thing that lets the Peak Design Travel Bag down in my opinion. It’s rather heavy when empty, so packing it to meet carry-on limits on some internal airlines is difficult. The weight is largely justified by the number of features, but still, a slight disappointment.

However, there’s also a 30L variant which is lighter (1.44kg / 3.17lbs) – we only tested the 45L for this review.

Comfortable shoulder and hip straps. The back panel allows you to fold in the sides to increase ventilation by raising the centre padding. Feels good even when fully loaded. A minimal sternum strap does the job.

I can’t think of any improvements I’d make to the aesthetics of this bag. My preference is black, but Ash is beautiful too.

Dual flaps for storage/separation; side access to camera cube; rear panel conceals straps; dividers in the cube.

This is designed primarily as a versatile 45L travel backpack with an optional camera insert (the ‘camera cube’), which is available in S, M and L sizes. I managed to fit all my mirrorless camera gear (body + lens attached, 2 primes, 2 flashes and batteries) into the S, leaving the rest of the bag free for clothing, etc.

If you’re not making full use of the upper storage area, you can pinch the top together to create an angled upper, reducing the overall size appearance – can be handy for sneaking through check-in. ;-)

Too many to list here, and slightly over-designed if I’m being honest. It all gets a bit overwhelming, so I recommend you get used to just one way of using the features and sticking with it! Have a look at all the features here.

It takes a little bit of getting used to since there are so many pockets/sleeves/zippers, but once you’ve decided on what to put where it’s a very well-thought-out backpack. Zippers are wonderfully smooth, as with all Peak Design products.

The backpack itself is priced at a premium, and adding in the various Packing Tools (like the camera cube) really starts to push the price up. Slightly hard to justify, despite the great build and unique features…But there’s a no questions asked lifetime warranty, so this could be the last backpack you ever need.

Whilst I haven’t ever got any compliments per se, I absolutely love this bag and have chosen it as my travel backpack for destination wedding photography gigs. Despite being entirely stealthy and unassuming, it still manages to stand out with a unique design that’s genuinely useful. You’ll want to keep touching it and experimenting with all the zippers and pockets too.

FINAL SCORE: 79/90

6. Brevite Jumper

Capacity: 25L (+5) | Dimensions: 11 x 5.5 x 17 in (28 x 13 x 43 cm) | Weight: 1.7 lb (0.77 kg) | Brevite Jumper Review

Brandon from Brevite reached out to ask if I wanted to review the Jumper for an update to this guide. I’m glad he did since this is a small camera backpack that I’d otherwise miss – it looks like a school backpack! If all you need to carry is a small camera, a couple of lenses and a jacket, this is the perfect size. It’s lightweight, available in tons of cool colours, and best of all, it’s refreshingly affordable too.

The construction feels good although fabric material may not stand much abuse over time – may also get stained if you’re not careful. Zippers feel solid and have nice long grab cords which come in useful in cold weather – they’re also water-resistant. Buckles are a mixture of plastic and metal.

At just 1.7 lb (0.77 kg), the Jumper is the perfect small camera backpack to carry around everywhere all day. It’s a great backpack for women and men alike due to its being so lightweight.

Since the Jumper is such a small camera backpack, it’s not really suited to someone like me at 6ft4″ (195cm) tall. The straps still accommodate my arms alright, but the bag looks a little ridiculous on my long upper body.

For anyone who is average height, the fit is much better. Shoulder straps are comfortable even when the bag is fully loaded, and the back offers sufficient padding for all-day use.

The Jumper is a cute camera backpack, reminiscent of a fashionable kid’s school backpack. It’s small, compact and minimalist, with the logos in the same colour as the fabric, which is a trendy touch. It’s available in 11 attractive colours, most of which are only available on the Brevite website.

Branding is on point and subtle.

Although the Jumper is small, you can fit a surprising amount of gear in it – I managed to squeeze my full-frame camera, drone, 14″ laptop and two medium-sized lenses, plus a load of smaller gadgets. It’s more of an everyday camera bag than something that professionals with multiple camera bodies would use.

Since it doesn’t have a camera cube (opting instead for padded dividers), the Jumper remains compact even when fully loaded.

The luggage pass-through can come in handy if you travel with a suitcase, and a small passport pocket is nicely hidden away in the side of the back panel. There’s also a pair of tripod holders on the bottom for a small travel tripod.

There’s one quick-access door so you can get your camera out quickly, and getting into the main compartment via the upper zip is easy enough. I found myself using the front pocket a lot, with the mesh dividers helping to keep small gadgets organised nicely.

Make sure you purchase the Jumper from the Brevite website – it’s available elsewhere, but it’s much cheaper if you buy direct from Brevite. At around $135, it’s excellent value for money and would make a great gift for a photographer friend.

The Brevite Jumper is definitely a trendy small camera backpack designed to appeal to fashionable men and women. Its branding isn’t overbearing and it certainly doesn’t look like it’d be packed with nerdy camera gear! The fashionable colours and fabric choices elevate it above other bags at this price point.

FINAL SCORE: 77/90

7. Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip

Credit: Tommy Williams

If you’re sick of seeing Peak Design backpacks on this list, don’t doubt it – this one deserves to be here too. It’s an innovative small backpack with camera compartments you can customise with FlexFold dividers, but it has one great trick up it’s sleeve – the ZIP. I’m a huge fan of how smooth the zips are on all Peak products, but with this backpack, the smooth zip serves to completely open the front section so there’s absolutely no space for any item to hide. This makes it super easy to pack, unpack and access, and I appreciate how the 15L size is perfect for ladies or those of us with smaller frames.

Capacity: 15L | Dimensions: 17.5 x 10.5 x 7.9 in (42 x 23 x 16 cm) | Weight: 2.95 lbs (1.34 kgs) | Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip Review

You can count on Peak Design for top-quality construction and the Zip is no different – the 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas shell is DWR impregnated, weatherproof and features a double PU-coating made from Bluesign certified materials.

Zippers feel great and slide easily 270 degrees around the contours of the bag, with large grab handles that feel sturdy.

At around 2.95 lbs (1.34kgs) for the smaller 15L model (it’s also available in 20L), this is an average weight for camera backpacks and won’t feel too heavy when fully laden with gear.

The 15L or 20L versions of the Everyday Zip camera backpacks are perfect for average-height men or women.

We love how the 15L version looks on a woman’s back in particular – it’s a low-profile camera backpack that doesn’t look bulky even when fully loaded.

In terms of comfort, the Zip feel great on your back with nice padded straps and perfect balance, especially when you use the sternum strap.

Available in 4 attractive colours (Black, Ash, Midnight and our favourite, Bone), the Zip is a real head turner and will attract compliments wherever you go. We’ve chosen it as the best backpack for women based primarily on its stylish looks which conceal the fact that it’s actually a camera bag.

20L model shown | Credit: Tommy Williams

Using the full capacity 15 or 20L of the Everyday Zip is actually easier than on other bags, thanks to the 270-degree zippered opening and wide access points. You can fit a couple of cameras, lenses, laptops and multiple accessories, with space on the bottom to strap a tripod.

The Everyday Zip makes use of Flex Dividers which provide lightweight protection and storage organisation for your gear. While most other camera backpacks opt for more padding (which takes up more room inside the bag), Peak Design prefers a minimal approach, which allows you to fit slightly more camera gear in the bag.

Inside, there’s a plethora of pockets and smart storage compartments, including magnetic pouches and zippered pockets to keep things secure. There’s also a hidden compartment on the back of the bag, perfect for keys, earphones or a smartphone.

The main zipper itself is unique to this backpack, allowing you to get right inside with ease – this is especially useful for finding any small item that may have slipped to the bottom, or to pull out larger items from the central compartment.

Peak Design’s zips are really the best in the industry – sure, they’re durable and water-resistant, but they glide so smoothly you’ll find yourself playing with them all the time.

Putting the Zip on your back is also a simple process, with the shoulder straps angled in such a way to make it easier than some of the other backpacks in our guide.

The only small niggle is that with the bag fully loaded, it’s a little hard to pull out the laptop.

Priced at around $189 for the 15L model, this is a premium backpack, but still plenty cheaper than some of the other camera backpacks in our guide.

There’s a lifetime warranty on all Peak Design products, which includes manufacturing defects and any failures or breakages that render the product non-functional.

This is definitely a unique backpack for photographers who want some stylish and functional that doesn’t scream ‘camera bag’!

FINAL SCORE: 81/90

8. F-Stop Dalston

Capacity: 21L (+3) | Dimensions: 18.9 x 11.4 x 6.3 in (48 x 29 x 16 cm) | Weight: .8 lbs (.8 kg)

Chris from F-Stop sent me this bag without mentioning its weight, but it’s actually one of the lightest mirrorless / DSLR backpacks I’ve ever come across. Although the external padding is rather minimal, everything is nice and cushioned on the inside and you can remove the internals to use it as a simple roll-top backpack too. Perhaps best of all, it doesn’t look at all like a camera bag. Unfortunately, it looks like the blue version is discontinued, but the aloe/drab one looks great and the orange version definitely stands out.

YKK Aquaguard zippers, DWR, 420D Ripstop Nylon with TPU laminate and Hypalon detailing – there’s not actually much to the F-Stop Dalston, but what there is is well-made. I can’t imagine much going wrong with this bag.

This thing’s as light as a feather! If only all camera backpacks were this light. At only 0.8kg / 1.8lbs, you can really make the most of your carry-on allowance on those strict internal airline carriers. It’s also a perfect weight to be carried all day around a city, which is how it’s intended to be used. This is the lightest backpack for photographers we tested.

The F-Stop Dalston isn’t designed to be loaded with gear, so the carrying straps, sternum strap and back support are rather minimal. I wouldn’t want to carry it for a long time fully loaded.

However, it’s worth remembering that this backpack wasn’t intended to be used to cram in all your gear – I see it more like a day pack, making use of its feather-light weight to help you carry only what’s absolutely necessary for the day’s city adventure.

With its fashionable (hipster?!) roll-top design, textured/shiny exterior, and funky colour names (Aloe, Nasturtium and … err.. blue?), the F-Stop Dalston certainly stands out from the crowd. I particularly like the muted black square logo on the front, which doesn’t detract from the overall statement.

This is definitely not a bag that looks like your typical camera backpack and would be a great thief deterrent as such.

Minimal branding; interior pockets; adjustable dividers; minimal straps.

At only 21 litres, the Dalston is probably most suited as a mirrorless camera backpack, or at least just for un-gripped DSLR bodies. Having said that, thanks to the thin outer material, it does have rather tardis-like properties – I was able to squeeze in a Nikon Z7, Nikon D750, a 70-200, 35mm, 13-inch laptop and various other small gizmos.

For a smaller bag, it’s surprisingly spacious.

It might not be the best DSLR backpack if you need to carry a lot of camera kit, but it’s definitely one of my favourites.

There’s not all that much to the F-Stop Dalston – it’s a simple camera bag that’s as fashionable as it is functional, but as for standout features, I don’t have anything to add here.

As a roll-top, it does offer expandable storage in the main section.

It’s a little hard to get in and out of the lowest internal compartment since the size zip doesn’t run low enough. Also, I find roll-top bags a little fiddly and unnecessary with their additional steps to get gear in and out of.

Having said that, you can access all your gear (including stuff stored on top of the padded dividers) from the side access zippers.

Even though the Dalston may feel like it should cost less (due to its lightweight), at about $170you’re paying for the quality of F-Stop products.

F-Stop is best known for its high-quality outdoor camera backpacks that are built to withstand Everest, and some of the tech has trickled down to the Dalston. I think the price is justifiable for the quality. Warranty is 2 years – I’d like it to be a little longer.

I couldn’t stop playing with the Dalston for the whole 2 weeks I tested it! Virtually everyone commented on it, photographer or otherwise. I can imagine in the loud orange (‘nasturtium’) colourway, you’d get even more attention.

It’s nice to have something as unique as this on your back in a world full of rather boring-looking camera gear.

FINAL SCORE: 76/90

9. Mindshift Backlight | Best for Safari

Capacity: 26L | Dimensions: 11.4 x 20.3 x 7.9 in (29 x 51.5 x 20 cm) | Weight: 3.9 lb (1.8 kg) | Mindshift Backlight Review

Incredibly well-built, with every feature feeling solid and durable, from the zipper pulls to the interior pockets. All the exterior fabric has a durable water-repellant coating, plus the underside of the fabric has a polyurethane coating.

It also has abrasion-resistant YKK® RC-Fuse zippers, 420D velocity nylon, 420D high-density nylon, 320G UltraStretch mesh, 350G air mesh, nylon webbing, and 3-ply bonded nylon thread. Pretty much bomb-proof for any safari or outdoor adventure.

Not particularly light, but then again, this is a hiking backpack built to carry and protect your camera gear, and that requires some decent padding and heavy-duty material.

Mindshift (part of ThinkTank Photo) knows its stuff when it comes to building comfortable bags, and the Mindshift Backlight is no exception. The padded back support and shoulder/waist/chest straps feel secure, distributing weight around your body very well.

We’ve chosen the 21L version, but there’s actually an 18, 36 and 45L version too (see them all here). The 21L is the sweet spot for an all-day hike, where you’re not tempted to take every gear accessory you own, and the backpack doesn’t get unnecessarily heavy.

It’s a hiking and safari camera backpack, but it’s not offensive to look at – that’s actually quite hard to achieve! Both the woodland green and the charcoal options look great, but the green zipper pulls of the charcoal version spoil it a little… but I can understand why they did it.

You definitely wouldn’t want to use this much in an urban environment, but that’s not its intention.

© Teriyani Riggs

The 26L Mindshift Backlight fits 1 standard-size DSLR (or 2 mirrorless cameras), plus 4-6 zoom lenses, a 15-inch laptop and a flash or 2. Then there’s additional room in the 9L front compartments for a load of other stuff – this thing can hold a lot more than its 26 litres would have you believe.

Not particularly unique per se, but the rear-access panel serves well as the main access point. Also, the padding on the rear panel is excellent, with just enough cushioning where you need it (particularly in the lumbar area), and a nice wide gap for your upper back to take a break from the heat.

There’s also a pouch that comes out of a pocket on the bottom of the bag, so you can carry a tripod attached to the front, along with some straps that come out of a zippered pouch on top.

Getting gear in and out of the Mindshift Backlight is simple and intuitive, although the tripod mounting pouch/straps are a bit fiddly. As long as your tripod is compact enough, I’d recommend trying it in the water bottle pouch instead, found on the side of the backpack.

At around $250, it’s not cheap, but it’s not over-priced either. The build quality gives you confidence that it’ll survive even the most hardcore of hikers.

Nothing to report, although the woodland green does look really nice when you’re out hiking.

FINAL SCORE: 73/90

10. Lowepro Freeline BP 350 Aw

Capacity: 25L | Dimensions: 11.54 x 8.19 x 19.17 in (29.3 x 20.8 x 48.7 cm) | Weight: 4.13 lbs (1.87 kg) | Lowepro Freeline BP 350 Aw Review

The LowePro Freeline is built from super high-grade Nylon 66 with water and abrasion-resistant Carbonate coating, YKK weatherproof zippers, reinforced padded base and a rain cover (Aw = all-weather).

Feels like it’d last a good 10+ years of abuse on the outside, and the inside is equally well-constructed. I particularly like the hook-and-loop attachments for the dividers, which are designed not to rip at the fabric.

Not bad at all for the quality and features of this bag. Remember it’s a dedicated backpack with a camera compartment insert – not just any old bag with the insert as an afterthought.

The padded shoulder straps are comfortable. The back ‘plate’ is ribbed to allow good air circulation. Shoulder straps can be further tightened with a sternum strap. The optional hip strap is a little less substantial but stows tidily when not in use.

Available in heather grey and black, the Lowepro Freeline BP 350 Aw is smart enough to use in the city and doesn’t scream camera backpack. Lowepro branding is prevalent, but tasteful in raised silver lettering.

Fits a full-frame DSLR, stored horizontally with mounted 70-200mm f/2.8 lens; a full-frame DSLR with grip plus a mirrorless body with grip, compact drones with controller, up to a 15-inch laptop, 10 inch tablet, travel tripod, cords, cables, water bottle and smaller items.

The ‘QuickShelf’ divider system is a great idea! Unfolds into a 3-tier shelf that snaps flat for easy removal, converting the Lowepro Freeline BP 350 Aw into a regular backpack in seconds. Expandable side pockets are a nice touch. Side and front clip straps are useful to secure misc items.

The expandable shoulder strap pocket is ingenious! Every backpack needs one of these. Perfect for storing batteries, pens, keys – anything you need quick access to, including your phone.

The grab handles at both sides of the rear are a great inclusion too. The tripod holder is at the front of the bag, which is pretty unique – most offer a tripod holder at the bottom, which makes the bag impossible to stand up and clunky to put down.

The Freeline also includes a handy tech pouch storage bag that’s the perfect size to stop smaller items such as laptop chargers, cables and memory card pouches from floating around inside the main backpack.

Dual side access points provide fast entry. Zippers are buttery smooth. The internal shelf has a plastic back to enable fast, smooth removal. Padded shoulder straps can be tightened and unfastened quickly, allowing you to remove gear items from the side without removing the bag from your back.

It also stands upright, which is a useful, often overlooked feature of a camera backpack.

At around $260, the Lowepro Freeline BP 350 Aw isn’t cheap by any means, but it’s still priced reasonably for all its fine construction, features and years of backpack know-how of Lowepro.

It doesn’t look like any other backpack I’ve come across. From the cool, metallic-silver logo down to its understated appearance that wouldn’t look out of place in an office, the Lowepro Freeline BP 350 Aw is a good-looking DSLR backpack.

11. Tenba DNA 15

Capacity: 20L (+3) | Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 8.5 in (46 x 28 x 22 cm) | Weight: 3.7 lb (1.7 kg)

Designed to give the year-round, all-weather, rugged performance of a bike messenger backpack, the DNA 15 feels sturdy and built to last, and it’s also a surprisingly lightweight camera backpack.

Lighter than most of the other backpacks I reviewed which are of a similar size.

Feels great on my back and on my wife’s. Tenba’s ‘Airflow’ padding raises the bag to allow good air circulation and is made from lightweight, spongey foam which provides great padding. Padded shoulder straps are adequate. Sternum straps minimal but does the job.

Unique graphite colour/texture makes the Tenba DNA 15 backpack stand out from the crowd, without it being too flashy. Branding is visible on the front strap, but not too prominent. Angled front zipper pocket is a nice design touch.

Doesn’t look like any other backpack I’ve come across.

Fits a mirrorless or DSLR camera with 4-6 lenses, plus a 15-inch laptop. Nice organisation options in the front pocket for business cards, batteries and smaller items. The side pocket can carry a tripod, assisted by side straps. Roll-top can be re-velcroed at various points to expand the upper storage area.

Lightweight fabric/pockets; slide-out storage compartments; magnetic clips; large interior storage space.

Lenses or smaller camera bodies are accessible via a slide-out compartment which remains open at an angle to allow you to remove items quickly and easily – the first time I’ve seen something like this on a backpack.

Main front clip fastens via a slide/magnet mechanism which is another first – works really well and is fun to operate.

Staggered velcro fastenings on the front allow roll top to be fastened more securely at various stages, allowing more to be carried in the upper section.

Aforementioned slide-out front pocket makes getting gear items out quick and simple. The roll-top entrance allows quick access to the cavernous interior.

At around $200, it’s a good quality backpack at a mid-range price which I feel is totally justifiable.

There’s definitely something that grows on you about this backpack. Initially, I didn’t think much of it, but after using it for a few days, I found myself reaching for it over the others tested.

12. F-Stop Ajna

Capacity: 20L (+3) | Dimensions: 23.5 x 13 x 10.5 in (59.7 x 33 x 26.7 cm) | Weight: 3.75 lbs (1.7 kg) | F-Stop Ajna Review

The F-Stop Ajna is made of extremely durable materials. It honestly feels like you could set this down anywhere – on dirt, rocks, sand, or even mud – and not have to worry about the material getting damaged. The bag itself is waterproof and the waterproofing on the zippers is high quality.

For what the Ajna offers (and the fact that hikers tend to need less weight than more), this bag weighs just right. It’d be hard to imagine it offering the space it does and getting any lighter. If you need a backpack for long lenses, this is definitely the way to go.

While the straps and waist belt are a bit thin on the padding, the pack fits surprisingly comfortably. There’s more than enough comfort for long hikes.

The Ajna is available in Nasturtium (bright orange), Anthracite (black), and my personal favourite, Aloe (seen above). The Nasturtium is F-Stop’s signature colour, which would certainly turn heads, and is probably a good thing for safety (increased visibility) while hiking.

Obviously black and aloe are far more practical for everyday use. I like the F-Stop branding and this certainly doesn’t look like a regular hiking camera backpack.

Shoulder strap hooks; large internal storage; customizable dividers inside cube; strap details.

The camera-carrying portion of the F-Stop Ajna uses removable ICUs (Internal Camera Units) and can hold up to a Large Pro. Depending on how you configure it, the Pro can hold 1-2 camera bodies and 4-6 lenses (a couple of long lenses plus smaller ones), plus other goodies. Need more space for hiking essentials? Choose a smaller ICU like the Slope or the Shallow. (All sold separately.)

There’s a sleeve that accommodates a hydration bladder and as well as attachment points for the sipping valve on the shoulder straps. However, there’s no water bottle pocket so if you’re not into hydration bladders (or don’t want to risk it leaking all over your gear) you’re a bit out of luck here.

You can mount a tripod on either the front or the side of the pack. There are also loops for trekking poles or ice axes on the outside.

There’s plenty of room both at the top and in the front pouch for layers, snacks and other trail necessities and plenty of external straps to attach things to. The only downside here is that there aren’t a lot of places to stow smaller things like SD cards or lens cloths.

As previously mentioned, this bag is hydration-system-compatible. That’s pretty rare.

Another unique feature is F-stop’s ICU system – once you get used to it it actually works really well, and I like being able to pull the entire ICU out to store my gear. You can also velcro the ICU in for added security.

Also comes with gatekeeper mounting points and internal and external MOLLE webbing for even more attachment points.

Like many adventure-style bags, the camera access is from the rear. That’s fine if you’re planning on taking time to set up, but if you’re on the trail and see something interesting, you’ll have to take off the bag to access your camera.

I also found that the frame of the bag got in the way while trying to unzip the Large ICU.

Another thing that bothers me is that it’s hard for me to reach the side pockets. There aren’t any pockets on the hip belt either. The exception is your hydration tube and whatever you might have stowed in the little mesh pockets on the shoulder straps.

This bag is definitely on the expensive side. So while it truly is one of the best trekking camera backpacks out there, you do pay for it. That said, there is a 20-year warranty on any defects in material or workmanship.

I really like the look and feel of this bag. The design, F-Stop’s branding and colour make it stand out from any run-of-the-mill hiking backpack.

FINAL SCORE: 75/90

13. Lowepro Photo Sport 300 AW II

Dimensions: 10.63 x 9.45 x 22.05 in (27 x 24 x 56 cm) | Weight: 3.31 lbs (1.5 kg)

As far as action backpacks go, the build on the Lowepro Photo Sport 300 AW II is fantastic. Like some of the higher-end backpacking bags, the outer material is high-tech and built to withstand hard use. There’s an adjustment strap just about everywhere it matters, allowing you to cinch down everything from the camera compartment to how the pack sits on you.

There are a number of different attachment points for skis, trekking poles, or tripods, and it comes with space for a hydration bladder, an all-weather rain cover, and an ActivZone harness to keep things from bouncing too much while running or jumping. The bag is fairly narrow and hugs the body well, making it easy to do things like climbing.

The camera compartment is side access, so you could keep the bag on and access your gear at the same time (though it’d be nice if there were at least one more access point).

You can really see the effects of the lightweight fabric here – just 3.31lbs for a fairly spacious, though not overly large, hiking backpack.

If you can figure out how to adjust the straps just right, you can get this pack to fit perfectly on most bodies. Everything’s adjustable and easy to cinch down. There is an issue, though, if you use a hydration system. I found that a full 2L bladder makes the back of the pack a bit uncomfortable, but you could always go smaller and not have this issue.

Empty, the Lowepro Photo Sport 300 AW II isn’t much to look at – especially the top compartment, as it loses its form. When full, it fills out and looks great. I was given the black model to review, but it also comes in blue.

The camera compartment is a bit small and doesn’t really hold much. If you’re a 3-lens user like I am then you’ll probably be a bit disappointed. It also doesn’t hold larger cameras or larger lenses. For example, it won’t fit the Canon EOS 1D/1Ds/1Dx Mark II, Nikon D4/D4s/D5 and Sony Alpha A850/A900. But, for those who go mirrorless and/or don’t need more than 2 lenses, you’ll probably be fine.

Otherwise, there’s plenty of room in the top compartment for the things you need on a long hike, as well as a large zippered compartment on the lid, and a front slide-in pocket for things that are flat or soft.

Built like a standard mountaineering backpack, the Photo Sport 300 really does have the rugged design needed for hard-core activities. The cinch-ability of the straps on this bag is far more comprehensive than just about any other camera bag I’ve tried. The ActivZone harness is also nice. These together allow me to get this bag to fit me snugly and comfortable enough that I can go climbing.

While not exactly unique, the hydration-system compatibility is appreciated and fairly rare in camera bags.

It takes a bit of trial and error to get the straps cinched just right, but that will be true on any mountaineering/action backpack. The side access makes the camera easy to get to. The flopping top compartment is a bit of a pain when empty, and the bag can’t stand up on its own.

One thing that’s missing is some internal mesh pockets that are good for holding small things like batteries and SD cards.

At less than $140 it’s a lot cheaper than many standard hiking backpacks of its type, yet has a camera compartment to boot. I’d say it’s well worth it if it fits your camera gear.

Though not particularly snazzy when empty, the Photo Sport 300 AW II looks good when full. And if you like the hiking/mountaineering style of backpack, this will definitely end up being your go-to.

FINAL SCORE: 74/90

14. LowePro ProTactic 450 AW II – Best Anti-Theft Camera Backpack

Capacity: 20L (+3) | Dimensions: 13.70 x 10.63 x 19.21 in (34.8 x 27 x 48.79 cm) | Weight: 5.72 lbs (2.59 kg) | LowePro ProTactic 450 AW II Review

The LowePro ProTactic 450 AW II feels very well built indeed. The top-access flap is a semi-hardshell and feels like it could take quite a beating. The camera rucksack itself is not waterproof but comes with a rain cover.

Inside are a few thick well-cushioned dividers for the main compartments and a number of thinner MaxiFit system pads for customization.

Its slash-proof exterior, secure storage compartments, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking technology make it the most durable anti-theft camera backpack I’ve come across.

All in all, sturdy and very well-constructed – the strongest backpack we tested, and not dissimilar in protective capabilities to a dedicated camera travel case .

This bag is definitely heavier than other bags of the same capacity, but that might be due to the extra protection provided by the top flap.

The shoulder straps seem thin but were surprisingly comfortable, even when the pack was fully loaded. The detachable hip belt is beefy and does a good job of keeping the weight off the shoulders. Comes with an ActivZone harness that rides a bit higher up the back and provides a bit of extra ventilation. The only real drawback is that the bag feels a bit over-stiff when fully loaded or when I added my laptop.

The LowePro ProTactic 450 AW II’s sleek, black, PALS-covered exterior will be a definite draw to those into the “tactical” look. Otherwise, the pack is rather unassuming and would fit in just about anywhere.

Side access; strap pouches; ActiZone back panel; padded internal dividers. On the inside, it fits 1-2 Pro DSLRs, one with up to 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached, 6-8 lenses/speed lights, and a 15-inch laptop. It also comes with a number of PALS accessories for carrying a tripod, water bottle and other accessories on the outside.

PALS is amazingly customizable. You can attach the accessories that come with it, any MOLLE pouches you already have, or simply tie on your gear in any way imaginable.

The rear panel access is also quite handy, allowing you to lay the bag down front-first and access the entire contents. This is a serious plus if you do a lot of outside work and hate getting the back of your bag dirty (the part that goes up against your back).

If you travel a lot, the semi-hard shell top flap will give your gear another level of protection.

Great access, with two side flaps, top access, and a back panel that zips open. The straps adjust quickly, making it easy to flip the backpack sideways for panel access. The waist belt tends to get in the way a bit when unzipping the back panel right to the bottom, though.

I haven’t really used the PALS system much in the past, but if you’re into loading up gear on the outside I can’t imagine a better way.

The version I of this bag was extremely popular and priced more than $100 less than this version II. I wasn’t able to compare the two side by side, but I do always like investing in the latest version of anything.

At around $270, it’s certainly priced in the premium category, but the LowePro ProTactic 450 AW II feels worth the money for sure.

Super cool look if you’re into tactical packs, MOLLE accessories, or being a bit stealthy with your photography.

15. Lowepro Flipside 400 AW II

Capacity: 20L (+3) | Dimensions: 12.60 x 9.96 x 19.29 in (32 x 25.3 x 49 cm) | Weight: 3.31 lbs (1.5 kg)

The Flipside is a compact backpack made of sturdy polyester. It seems small but holds a lot. The zips feel durable, there’s a lot of padding on the backside and in the hip and shoulder straps, and everything works. The exterior isn’t waterproof but comes with a rain cover.

The retracting tripod cup is a bit weird, but so far seems to work (at least for a smaller tripod).

It’s not particularly light for its size, but neither is it heavy.

The Flipside fits well enough on my back and on my wife’s. The straps and hip belt are comfortable and it seems like I could wear it for quite a while without needing a break.

Ok looking. Nothing special. Just a neutral look.

Quite an amazing capacity for such a compact bag. The Lowepro Flipside fits a DSLR with up to a 300mm attached lens, 4-6 additional lenses, a compact drone, a flash, a 15-inch laptop, and a 10″ tablet. It has Lowepro’s trademark Sliplock webbing on the outside for attaching more gizmos to the exterior.

Definitely holds enough for the average travelling photographer who wants to stay active and nimble.

The tripod mounts stay hidden until needed, so no dangling straps or annoying cups in your way.

Built to flip over so that you can access the camera compartment without taking off your bag.

The laptop sleeve is on the flap that accesses the camera compartment, which puts it squarely in your way if you’re attempting to get to your camera without taking the bag off. It also means your laptop will be moving each time the flap has to be undone to open the bag.

It takes some practice to flip it around and access the camera compartment without taking the bag off. Otherwise, everything is standard.

Not a bad value for around $150. It’s soundly built and carries enough despite its small size.

The Flipside has a bit of an understated look to it, which is helpful if you’re not wanting it to be unduly noticed. No real x-factor though.

16. Lowepro Photo Hatchback 150 AW II

Capacity: 16L | Dimensions: 10.83 x 7.28 x 18.50 in (27.5 x 18.5 x 47 cm) | Weight: 1.78 lbs (0.8 kg)

I like the fact that the Photo Hatchback is both lightweight and compact. The exterior is made from water-resistant rip-stop nylon and lots of padding in the camera compartment. Comes with an all-weather (AW) rain cover that sits in its own compartment at the bottom of the pack.

The camera compartment comes with a customisable divider system and a storm-flap to keep out rain and dust, which adds to its all-weather (AW) rating. Everything seems well made and like it will hold together well.

At just 1.78 lbs (0.8 kg), the Photo Hatchback is one of the lightest full-fledged camera backpacks on the market. For what you’re getting and all it can hold, this is amazing.

Even though it’s a modest-sized backpack, I found that it fit surprisingly well and so did my wife. There’s plenty of padding in the shoulder straps and back and the sternum and waist straps work well, too.

The Photo Hatchback is a sporty little bag that doesn’t really stand out overly much. I think it would look better without the reflective strip on the back, though I understand why it’s there. Perhaps they could have used a darker colour.

This bag wasn’t really designed to carry much. It’ll fit a mirrorless with an attached lens, one extra lens (under 100mm), and few accessories like a GoPro or a hard drive. It doesn’t officially have room for a laptop, but you can get around that by unzipping the divider between the compartments on one side and slipping it down through the top. It does, however, fit an 8″ tablet in a separate sleeve.

The top compartment is roomy enough for a jacket and some snacks and such. It also has a few other inside pockets that can hold batteries, cables, etc. There are two side pockets that can hold water bottles or a Gorillapod. It’s not the sort of pack you’d want if you need your 60-200mm lens or need to bring along anything larger than a compact DSLR.

The coolest feature is that the camera compartment on the Photo Hatchback is removable and allows for quick conversion to a simple day-pack. This really makes a huge difference if you’re on the road and don’t want your camera gear with you when you go out.

The tablet slot has a suspension system to keep your device from hitting the bottom of the bag. While this would be cooler if it held a laptop, tablet users will definitely appreciate it.

I found this bag super easy to use for smaller day trips with my Sony A7III. I love the fact that despite the small size and lightweight, there’s still enough room for personal gear and that it also converts easily to a straight day-pack.

I found Photo Hatchback for under $60. That’s a tremendous deal for everything it offers.

Nothing significant in the looks department, but due to its feather lightweight, I did enjoy using it.

17. Tenba Axis 20

Capacity: 20L | Dimensions: 19.5 x 12 x 8.75 in (50 x 30 x 22 cm) | Weight: 4 lbs (2 kg)

Modelled after a tactical, military backpack with horizontal MOLLE webbing running across the front, the Tenba Axis features a rubberised water-resistant coating on the sides and upper and a seam-sealed cover for use under heavy rain. Straps are sturdy and well-padded.

In the 20L iteration I tested, the weight is manageable, even when fully loaded, although not outstanding. It’s fine as a day-pack weight.

The shoulder straps are height adjustable via a plastic card, which basically loosens the hook and loop fastenings within the rear pocket to allow you to slide the straps up or down. This ensures a snug fit of both the upper straps and the lower hip strap, whatever your size. Great feature, although it does require a fair bit of fiddling initially.

Cool, understated military-inspired looks spoiled only by a white tripod logo on the rear-front – why, oh why Tenba?! Curiously enough, the tripod symbol isn’t visible on the bag shown online, so maybe I received an odd one.

Can fit 1-2 mirrorless, DSLR or Cine cameras with 5-7 lenses up to a 300mm f/2.8, a laptop up to 15″, a compact drone and a tripod via a reinforced cup on the exterior.

The height-adjustable straps – all camera backpacks need this! We’re all different sizes, after all.

Getting gear in and out via the rear panel is simple enough. I wish the front zippered pocket zipped all the way down both sides instead of stopping halfway – makes reaching smaller items that have slipped down a little annoying.

Around $200 for a bag of this size seems slightly pricey to me, despite the fact that it’s well made and there’s clearly some thought gone into its design.

Makes you feel a bit like a soldier…if not for the branding. Men might compliment, but women probably won’t. :p

18. Thule Aspect

Dimensions: 11.8 x 8.7 x 20.5 in (27.9 x 22.09 x 52.07 cm) | Weight: 3.2 lb (1.45 kg)

The Thule Aspect is well constructed and the materials feel like they’ll last a good long time. The zippers have glove-friendly pulls, the straps are well padded, and the bag holds its shape enough to stand up on its own. It’s not particularly weather-proof (especially the zippers) and doesn’t come with a rain cover. Size-wise it fits easily in the overhead compartment of most planes and even under the seat of some others.

One of the big pluses of this bag. At a mere 3.2 lbs, the Aspect comes in at one of the lightest camera bags of this size and calibre.

I found the Aspect comfortable enough. Not quite perfect, but few packs are for me. Still, the straps were easily adjustable and I could get it close enough. The air mesh back panel did add a bit of comfort and breathability.

The accent colour adds to an otherwise drab exterior. I’m not a huge fan of the prominent Thule branding, though I know this won’t bother most people. Looks great on my back and on my wife’s.

The camera compartment on the Thule Aspect has three modifiable fairly deep slots that can hold a DSLR or mirrorless with an attached lens, a couple of spare lenses, a Speedlight, and a few other accessories.

There’s plenty of raw space, but unfortunately, the dividers are poorly sized and particularly don’t work so well if you have smaller cameras. Also, the velcro of the dividers doesn’t stick particularly well.

The top compartment is fairly roomy and has multiple pockets inside. Great for personal items or a drone.

Can be easily converted into a simple day-pack by removing the camera compartment dividers. The hip belt comes with zippered pockets which is a huge plus in my book – every backpack needs one.

Easy to use in almost every aspect. The side-access camera compartment is easy to get to without taking the bag off. The zippers all move smoothly. The pockets in the upper compartment are right where you’d expect them to be. The only difficult part is getting the camera compartment dividers to fit right.

Very reasonably priced at around $130.

It definitely doesn’t look like a camera backpack. The turquoise accents do add to its appearance, and I like the uncluttered exterior. Just wish that the branding was a little subtler.

19. Thule Covert

Dimensions: 17.7 x 7.9 x 21.3 in (44.96 x 20 x 54.1 cm) | Weight: 4.97 lbs (2.25 kg)

Feels solid and good quality. Nylon outer is water-resistant and feels tough to the touch. Built to last.

Could be lighter, but ample padding and numerous pockets are bound to add to the overall weight.

Comfortable straps despite minimal padding compared to some other photography backpacks. The back panel provides adequate airflow. The height-adjustable sternum straps are minimal but do the job. Overall, feels good on both male and female backs.

Quite ‘busy’ in the looks department – buckles, pockets, zippers…but it’s all functional so can be forgiven. Prominent branding is a little annoying, but ‘Thule’ does have a bit of a cool appeal as a Swedish brand. Doesn’t look like a camera bag.

Some might find the squareness and width of the roll-top upper a little odd.

Customisable storage fits up to a prosumer DSLR body with a small zoom lens attached, plus a DJI Mavic Pro (or drones up to 260mm x 200mm x 100mm), 2 other prime lenses, a flash and smaller accessories. A zip-out divider separates the top and bottom compartments. Lots of pockets for further organisation.

There are lots of organisation options inside the pockets on the Thule Covert. The rolltop compartment can be size-customised depending on the length of the straps.

Fast and easy to get gear in and out of the Thule Covert, but the plastic buckles are a bit on the stiff side. The loud ‘click’ of buckles may not be suitable for all uses.

Around the $200 mark seems to be the sweet spot for camera backpacks of this calibre.

No other bag I’ve tested looks like the Covert, so thumbs up in that respect. My only gripe from an aesthetics point of view is the prominent branding, but this is just personal preference. Many people love both the look and the functionality of roll tops, and this is one of the better ones. Plenty of 5-star reviews on Amazon.

FINAL SCORE: 67/90

20. Tamrac Anvil 27

Capacity: 27L | Dimensions: 21 x 12 x 10 in (53 x 31 x 25 cm) | Weight: 4.8 lbs (2.2 kg)

I’ve come to expect first-rate construction on bags from Tamrac and the Anvil 27 is no exception. It’s built like a tank and is likely to withstand anything a back-country trip can throw at it. The materials are top-of-the-line, even down to the zippers and buckles.

The foam dividers work really well too. (Tamrac claims that it used over 10 foam types in the construction of this bag!)

One of the heavier bags on this list due to the heavy-duty materials used in its construction.

The harness and suspension system is what you’d expect on a hiking/mountaineering backpack – it holds the weight well, and can be adjusted for a smooth, snug fit. The waist belt is thick and takes the weight well. I’ve done hikes up to 4 miles with it fairly well loaded and it still felt comfy.

Sorry Tamrac, but this is one ugly camera backpack!

The Anvil 27 camera travel backpack has room for everything you need on a wilderness trek, at least as far as photography is concerned. The camera compartment has space for larger DSLRs with battery grips and/or with zoom lenses up to 18″ (35.56 cm) long attached to them. There’s plenty of space for extra lenses, flashes, chargers, etc. as well.

Not much room for the non-photography things you’d need on a hike into the back-country – layers, snacks, lots of water, etc., which is surprising since that’s what this pack seems to have been made for. Holds a 15-inch laptop and a tablet as well.

If you like attaching things onto the outside of your bag, the Anvil 27 s arc attachment points hold MAS and SAS components and a variety of other accessories including MOLLE.

Also, the quick-release tripod straps work really well.

There’s only one access point for the camera and that’s a bit of a downer for me, especially when shooting wildlife or when you need quick access to your camera. Other than that, everything works well on this bag. The dividers in the main compartment are particularly easy to customize.

At over $260, the Tamrac Anvil 27 is rather pricey. However, it’s really well made and can hold a lot of gear very safely. You’re definitely investing in quality that will last a long time.

Nothing that makes me want to keep touching this backpack, and you certainly won’t get compliments on your taste. However, looks aren’t everything of course!

FINAL SCORE: 70/90

21. Langly Alpha Globetrotter

Dimensions: 18 x 8 x 14 in (45.72 x 20.32 x 35.56 cm) | Weight: 4.2 lbs (1.92 kg) | Langly Alpha Globetrotter Review

Langly’s been making great camera bag backpacks for a long time and the Alpha Globetrotter is no exception. The straps, pulls, tough rubber bottom, and bag material is all of the finest workmanship and will clearly last a long time. The outer material and zippers are entirely weatherproof, and this latest version has reinforced camera inserts that securely cradle your gear.

This backpack looks like it should feel heavier, to be honest – I was expecting it to weigh a ton. It’s not lightweight by any means, but for its size and robustness, it’s not actually too bad.

Featuring ventilated shoulder straps, a custom-moulded air-flow back panel, and waist and chest straps, the Globetrotter attaches securely to your body and feels great on the back. My wife agreed too. The shoulder straps feel a little thin, but the padding is adequate and the materials wicks sweat away well.

The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is Instagram-fodder, pure and simple. Great for any photographer who cares about style – don’t we all, secretly?!

Plenty of capacity for the average photographer. For the pro, there’s enough room if you pack light. It holds a DSLR and up to 5 lenses or a combination of lenses and speedlights. The top compartment is quite roomy and can be used for anything from books to Pocket Wizards or anything else. The zippable laptop sleeve is designed for a 15-inch laptop.

The outer pockets are a little small for some flash units but can fit smaller primes, hard drives, chargers, etc. You can use the secret compartment on the rear of the bag to hide a phone, passport or money. Also has a water bottle pocket and straps for attaching a tripod on the bottom.

The secret pocket on the inside back is a nice touch for hiding valuables, and thanks to the raised-contouring of the back panel, you can actually put items like keys that aren’t completely flat, and not ‘feel’ them on your back.

The ventilated straps aren’t particularly unique, but the styling is – it’s all blended in nicely with the rest of the backpack.

An update from the Alpha Pro, Langly updated the Globetrotter to have a front-loading panel, making it much easier to access the camera compartment than in previous versions. The laptop is also easy to access. Still, there’s only one access point for the camera and you still have to (mostly) take the bag off to get to it.

My only gripe is that the upper zippers don’t go around the corners easily, making it tempting to leave it partially unzipped when in a hurry. Also, my tripod’s a bit too big to attach easily at the bottom without sticking out at the sides.

Also, the button fastening on all the straps is rather unusual and takes a little getting used to, especially with cold hands – opening it is easy as tugging, but fastening is a little fiddly. Thankfully the zippers have larger pull grips with stylish leather accents.

This is a bag that’s going to last for a long time, so while it’s definitely a bit pricey, it certainly looks and feels like it will be with you for decades or more. The warranty is only 1 year though, which is a little disappointing.

It’s easy to be drawn to this bag. The vintage hiking backpack form is often imitated but rarely equalled, especially at this quality level. The look, the feel, the high-quality materials… everything about the Langly Globetrotter makes it one of a kind.

How We Test & Review Camera Backpacks

Each backpack was reviewed individually for its merits and shortcomings

Each camera backpack is marked on the following criteria and given a score out of 10. A perfect 10/10 score is only given when a backpack excels .

Then the scores are tallied up, giving the backpack a final score out of 90.

Here are the criteria against which each bag was scored:

• Build – is the backpack built to last? Does it survive the ‘pull the straps as hard as I can’ test?
• Weight – is it too heavy to count as carry-on luggage on strict airlines?
• Fit – how does it feel on my back/my wife’s back?
• Looks – does the backpack look cool?
• Capacity – whether it’s 10L or 40L, is it designed in a way to take full advantage of its size?
• Unique Features – usually only features I hadn’t seen before/often.
• Ease of Use – can you get your camera gear in/out easily?
• Value for Money – could it be priced much higher?
• X-Factor – do I want to keep using the backpack? Do I get compliments on it?

Obviously, some of the criteria are highly subjective. Whether a camera ‘looks cool’ or not was left to me and my wife to decide, and you may not agree with our taste!

As for ‘Fit’, since I’m a 6ft 4” (194cm) male, my guidance as to how well each backpack feels on my body may not be relevant to you.

To gain a better perspective on ‘Looks’, (as well as ‘Fit’, and ‘X-Factor’), I asked my wife (5ft 7” / 175cm) to weigh in with her opinion too.

In this roundup, you’ll find a mixture of the latest camera backpacks and others that have been on the market for several years – after all, a product doesn’t need to be brand new to be considered great.

It’s also worth considering that you could also choose any old daypack with a camera compartment if you’re not looking for specific features or robust padding for your equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose a camera backpack?

The most important thing when choosing a camera backpack is to carefully consider your individual needs. Think about what you need to carry and what situations you’ll be using the backpack for. Maybe you need something waterproof and rugged, something smart and professional, or something small and inconspicuous. These factors are important considerations along with the aesthetics and price of the bag you choose.

What is the top camera backpack?

Our top pick is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2. It’s lightweight and durable, expandable and capable of fitting plenty of gear, and has a cool, understated design.

How do you pack a camera for air travel?

If you’re using your camera backpack for air travel, be sure to utilise any padded inserts correctly to prevent your gear from getting damaged. Make sure any breakable items like camera bodies and lenses are carefully stored each in their own padded compartment. In the event of any turbulence or your bag getting jolted around, you’ll want your gear to be snug but not over-cramped.

What should I keep in my camera backpack?

That all comes down to what you’re shooting and which size backpack you choose; but at a minimum, you’ll probably want to keep your camera body (or bodies), several lenses to cover most situations, and extras like memory cards or film, spare batteries, any flash or lighting equipment, and – if you have enough space – a laptop or tablet to do your editing.

Camera Backpack Reviews | Final Words

Our kids have quite a selection of bags to choose from for school now…

If you’ve made it this far, I’m sure you’ll sympathise with me when I say I’m pretty much sick to death of reviewing bagckpacks! (…and so are my wife and kids…)

One thing’s for sure – there’s no shortage of amazing camera backpacks in 2024, and it’s nice to see every brand putting out so many high-quality products which are sure to please even the most critical photographer.

I hope this review will help you choose the right way to carry your precious camera gear this year.

Be sure to leave a comment with your own recommendations, and please share this post with a photographer friend – it’ll make me feel a little bit better about devoting so much time to putting it together!

Cheers and happy snapping :-)

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Mark Condon is a British wedding photographer and editor of Shotkit. When he’s not taking photos or reviewing the latest camera gear and software, Mark can be found cycling around the northern rivers.

80 Comments

Thank you so much for the in depth review! It’s very helpful. I have a 20L Peak Design Everyday Backpack but I just don’t think its what I actually want in a camera backpack so I’m returning it and looking to get the Lowepro Protactic BP 450 Aw ii. I’m roughly your wife’s height, what did she think when the bag was fully loaded? Too heavy? Would I be better off opting for the 350?

Thank you again for all the time and effort you put into this.

Sure thing Tess, and great question! The Protactics are great bags, but they are rather heavy. I’d definitely recommend this one , as you said. If you’re on a tighter budget, the version I ( here ) is also decent too, although the access isn’t as good. Let me know how you get on, and how it compares with your old PD one ;-)

Thanks very much for your time and effort into reviewing all these bags… I appreciate it. It’s always so hard to find that perfect bag and now my decision will be a little clearer. thx

Ah, glad you liked it Kerry! Thanks for letting me know ;-)

Thank you for this review, I spent a long time before Christmas looking backpacks and reading reviews for bags that included a laptop slot, and I thought I’d found the perfect one for me, and my wife ended up getting it for me! The Case Logic SLRC-206. I was so exited, it fit my Df and lenses, my 15.6″ Laptop and cables all so neatly and tidily, and securely.

Then I put it on. You see, I am 6’4″ 250lbs, and at it’s loosest it was a bit tight, but I figured I’d give it a shot, just have to get used to it, you know? But it seems like this bag was specifically engineered to fall off your shoulders, when I’m carrying it on one shoulder from my car to my front door, no matter how I contort my body, it falls off. Every. Single. Time.

After a month of fighting with it, I just don’t think this is the bag for me, and since it was purchased within the Christmas window, my return period is still open, so I’m going to be using your page here as my guide for getting a replacement, I do so like that you have included pictures of your 6’4″ self with each bag, so I can more easily gauge it’s size and fit, so thank you very much for that!

I’m still on a budget, so I’m personally leaning towards that Bagsmart Olympus, but we’ll see how it all shakes out in the end. I just wanted to say thanks, and warn against the Case Logic for any big and tall folk out there!

Thanks for the feedback, Josh – will take a closer look at that CL bag. Re. the Olympus, I think you’ll like it – it’s slightly heavier than some of the other backpacks on this list, but really well built, and can hold a lot of gear. All the best!

Great review Mark.

Can’t agree with you about the looks of the Shimoda Explora 60 backpack. Great pack but I reckon the looks are pretty agricultural – almost enuff to turn me off the pack. The harness system on the Shimoda is awesome – better than F-Stop bags methinks.

I’m in the market for a 50-60ltr camera backpack & I recently found out about a cheaper option for a large backpack for backcountry use or even maybe a couple of nights camping. It’s the Mammut Trion 50+7 Pro. It’s not a dedicated camera backpack but it has a panel opening on the back where the harness is to allow easy access to your camera gear, and it just fits a large ICU from F-Stop. It has an extendable lid section for carrying extra gear and has attachment points for a tripod.

Being a dedicated alpine hiking pack, the harness is 1st class, and Mammut gear is renowned for its rugged quality, and it has a removable hipbelt & an internal alloy frame. The hipbelt is adjusted from the outside of the belt inwards just like on Osprey packs – this system works better than the conventional method of adjusting from the middle of the belt as it helps the belt hug the hips. The pack is quite weatherproof with a 5,000mm rating but doesn’t come with a raincover.

Of course you miss out on a few bells & whistles like numerous pockets that are found on camera bags, but it is about half the price of a large F-Stop or Shimoda backpack, so represents good value. I’ve sourced it online for about $260-$280 AUD.

Here’s a link to the Mammut website:

https://www.mammut.com/p/2510-02222-0051/trion-pro/

This is a link to a YouTube video where Canadian landscape photographer, Adam Gibbs, reviews the pack. Info about the Mammut pack starts at 11mins.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHQNtnPXnIo

Cheers, Vic.

Hey Vic, thanks for the interesting comment! That Mammut does look nice, I agree, but styled like any other hiking backpack. I’m still more of a fan of how the Shimoda looks. That’s great you found the Mammut for a good price – let us know how it performs.

Excellent review. Very thorough and very helpful. Makes me think of turning to a life of crime so I can afford a Wotancraft!

Just a quick comment on your math though… Some scores as over 80, some over 90, and some over 100… ;-)

haha yeah those Wotancrafts sure are tempting! Thanks for picking up on the scoring errors – maths was never my strong point!!

Is there a reason you didn’t include any Vanguard backpacks Mark? Just coincidence ? Or not to your liking , if so please tell why ?

Hey Jan, I reached out to them and Think Tank (both excellent bag manufacturers), but unfortunately they couldn’t provide me with any backpacks for testing over Christmas. If I get hold of any from them, I’ll consider adding them to the review. Are you a fan of Vanguard?

Once again, an excellent and thorough review of the plethora of backpack options out there for shutterbugs. Like you, Mark, I have owned several camera backpacks in search of that perfect “does-it-all-in-every-situation” pack and I’m still looking. This article has certainly opened my eyes to some options that I might not have considered before. I showed your review to my wife and suggested she could wear one of these packs to help me carry gear around. The withering look I got in reply just reaffirmed that she might not be quite as supportive as your wife is of you!

One extra bit of information that might be helpful is that I have owned both the Lowepro Photo Hatchback and the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW II and have lost the sternum strap on both of them when they went through a security scan at the airport. It might be design flaw that makes them susceptible to catching and being pulled off inadvertently. Also, when I used the Hatchback as my main tote I could fit an 11″ Macbook Air in the tablet slot quite easily.

Thanks again for such a comprehensive review and I’m now currently researching what my next backpack will be.

Best regards,

Great feedback – thanks Clay! “suggested she could wear one of these packs to help me carry gear around” – made me laugh!! My wife was getting tired of me making her wear the backpacks for the photos, I can tell you that much! Thanks for the feedback on the sternum straps – I know exactly what you mean, and this is the case with several of the backpacks now I look closer. Let us know which backpack you end up going for!!

Great article with much information I like the lowe pro runner backpack inshallah I am gonna buy that one for my next trip.

What a great article! I am looking for a backpack with rear access for my olympus em5 + 12-40 and that still have enough space for 20-25L of clothing. I would like it to be quite casual (or hiking type) but not very big or bulky. Any idea? Thanks!

Thanks Sara! There are several on this list that would be ideal for that amount of gear, but it depends on your tastes/style preference…

F-Stop Loka UL is amazing. 37L carrying mirrorless body, 4 primes, 3 zooms, full flash and accessories all in a medium ICU. Carry on size on all airlines. Just as tough as F-Stop Loka. I also have Ajna when I need to pack clothes. F-Stop has fixed all its supply issues and has great customer service now.

Thanks Martin – I wasn’t aware of the supply issues, but agree that the F-Stop range is excellent.

Hi Mark, have you looked at the Thinktank Shapeshifter series. I’m using the Naked Shapeshifter along with a number of Thinktank pouches, lens changer , Hubba Honey etc. which makes a versatile modular system which can be adapted for different occasions. As I use Fuji mirrorless I can get two bodies, 5 or 6 lenses, filters, batteries etc. in.

Hey Richard, they’re great backpacks – I like how slim they are in contrast to how much you can fit in them. As you’re shooting Fuji, I’m assuming you need a lot of space for spare batteries…! Thanks for the tip!

Really helpful list. The selections of best camera backpack are meticulous and unbiased. Love it, Thanks

you just made my day i was planning out with my friends … plus i love photography your post have so much information… thanks for helping … thanks for sharing

This is an amazing article – especially for backpack geeks. Short, well written and fun to read, with good use of imagery and video!

Glad you liked it, Alex! Good luck with your next backpack purchase ;-)

i love this post because it has a complete data.

Hi Mark, I’m after a comfortable camera backpack for walking/hiking (so a good waist belt is advantageous) but I can’t justify spending over £100 on a backpack, some of the prices on these backpacks are insane. I get that a lot of R&D went into them but still…

What do you think of using a dedicated hiking pack (something like an Osprey Stratos) with an insert for all the camera equipment? Obviously you lose the ability to quickly get at your camera but it would be better for hiking and it would probably work out cheaper I reckon?

I think that’s a great idea J – I use a camera insert or a Domke wrap all the time with regular bags I own. The Osprey series of backpacks are all second to none, so it’d make the most sense if you want a great hiking backpack first and foremost. Good luck!

Great new list Mark. I have the F-Stop Loka and Ajna and will now be ordering the Tilopa. As an experienced outdoorsman and downhill skier all over the world, these are the best photography packs made today IMO. They are very comfortable and extremely well designed. They are hard to order as the company does run out of stock so be careful when you order but man when it arrives, you cannot possibly be disappointed. I have 3 sizes of ICU’s to fit my needs. Expensive set up but with most things in life, you get what you pay for. Was also looking at the Wotancraft bags – stellar quality as well. Just haven’t pulled the trigger yet. Keep up the great work.

Thanks Martin. Yes I agree, the F-Stop range are excellent. They’re clearly designed by people who know the outdoors, and function equally as well as backpacks with or without the ICUs as you obviously know. Wotancraft are great too, but very different, and also slightly on the heavy side IMO. However, they’re releasing a new light-weight range later this year, so stay tuned to Shotkit where I’ll review them ;-)

I have PeakDesign 30L. Since 8 months… I highly recommend that backpack to all destination wedding photographers. Maybe it’s not a hipster look, but it do the job!

Hi, Great Article. Thanks

None of your packs have water bladders. Where do you hike? Where I hike 3 l of water is mandatory. They look cool,but. What about space for sat phone, gps, not to mention first aid kit. Not all of us walk where we can use a cell phone to call mom if we stub our toe.

The post is more of a focus on backpacks for photography than for hiking. Having said that, F-Stop offer great bags for photography that can accommodate bladders.

Hi Mark, thanks for the wonderful list. But I’m torn between the between the Wotancraft Commander and Peak Design Everyday Backpack. I like the looks of Wotancraft but the innovation of Peak Design. If money is no object, which one would you recommend?

I agree with you Damon – much prefer the Wotancraft’s looks, but I have to say that the PD is much more practical.

The U-lock Holster on the Chrome Niko is designed specifically for holding wide bike locks. It is not designed to hold camera bodies or lenses; they will slip right through. https://ridebrooklynny.com/images/library/large/krypt_997986_nyfu_07_m.jpg

Do you have a camera insert in the herschel on the first picture?

Great review Mark, is there a bag that is similar to this one https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1246871-REG/tamrac_g0500_1979_uinta_30l_backpack_kit.html

Thanks Geoff! That’s a nice looking bag – similar in what way? What do you love about it?

I’ve been after a bag that I can fit tons of camera gear in that is comfortable and practical. Something more personal for landscape photography or winter photo shoots that I’m trekking in snow or summer mountain top weddings.

Ah gotcha. Hmm well if that one doesn’t have any unique features as such, I’d just recommend any of the ones in this post that you like the physical appearance of since many of them fit a lot of gear and are comfortable…

Hey there! Could you recommend a fantastic site for my travel blogs? Next Destination: The Black Sea side of Turkey & Cappadoccia

Site? What do you mean Ann?

Mark, I’m working on a travel blog about wonderful places to discover in turkey. I’m selling pics and travel blogs

Photos of Cappadocia are ready. Fresh and original content…contact me if you’re interested

Fantástico artículo y gran producto!

I am surprised the Lowepro Pro Tactic BP 350 AW or 450 AW did not get a mention on your list, they have won awards all over the world.

It’s on this list: https://shotkit.com/best-camera-bags/ but you’re right, I should list it here too!

Did you physically handle every bag in this review?

Between me and my reviewers we did!

Really well written article, with tones of information, examples and pictures. Thanks for sharing this, you have clearly put a lot of effort into it.

GOOD INFO ! THANKS

To me, the order of the criteria changes a bit, being: 1) Construction/Durability 2) Design 3) Value for Money 4) Looks. Looks is way at the very end of my list because I almost want my backpack to look as uninteresting and crappy as possible. Anything that helps deter thieves as much as possible is welcome. Being from a country with a high crime rate, admittedly makes me high on the paranoia rate, and if I have a lot of eyes on my backpack full of equipment, it makes me very uncomfortable to say the least. I also sometimes go to photograph in countries where camera theft is high, so for me, the least enticing, the better. It might be a great bag, but if there’s Manfrotto, LowePro or recognizable photo brands written all over it, it’s a definite no no. Fortunately, I see that there’s a lot of “new” brands, which have chosen to be a bit more discreet, while still making great products.

Couldn’t agree more Dante – for me Looks are important, but not to the extent where the bag looks flashy or stands out. I like the stealth, unbranded approach, but still want something a little fashionable or at least not like your typical camera bag so it’s enjoyable for me to carry and use.

Ever heard of Thinktank ( https://www.thinktankphoto.com/ )? Used by professionals more than any other bag. Superb construction and design. Not for backpacking. I have no relationship with them.

Yep I have a couple of Think Tank bags and included a few in this list too https://shotkit.com/best-camera-bags/ I haven’t handled their backpacks so can’t comment, but assume they’re great too. Will no doubt add to this list in the future.

I notice in your opening picture you feature a Herschel Little America. Why did you not feature this bag after you included it in your picture? Just curious. Thanks and keep up the great work on the website.

Hey Martin! Good spot ;-) I didn’t include it as I don’t really consider it a camera bag, even though they’re great bags. I guess you could use it with an insert though…

H Mark: Guess what I found in your Best Camera Bags of 2016 section on your website – that’s right a Herschel Little America used by Joann Pai. https://shotkit.com/best-camera-bags/ Thanks for the quick response. Agreed not a dedicated camera bag. Cheers.

Excellent list Mark!

I would highly recommend the KATA and Manfrotto bags. In fact. Manfrotto merged with Kata in 2014 so if you see a Kata bag it will be an old model – they might even be on sale, get ’em quick.

https://www.carryology.com/bags/manfrotto-interview-kata-merger/

I use a roller bag from Manfrotto and it’s superb.

Hey Yeshen, ah glad you found this post interesting. I’ve seen the Manfrotto rollers and they look very nice! Will check the KATA ones too. Thanks!

Agree with the Wotancraft, their bags looks fantastic. The price though kept me from buying them. Next year have a look at Peak Designs backpacks. Though I haven’t see them live yet (delivery December), most reviews promises a lot. Having used their Messenger for close to a year now (along with a few other PD products) I am impressed with the quality and usability and expects the same from their backpack.

I have a pre-order Peak Design Everyday backpack on its way and I already know it’ll make an appearance in this list! Cheers Bent! Mark

I use a Think Tank Photo Airport Essentials.. With my Canon 1d miii with 24 to 105l tamron 70-300, sigma 50, full size flash and bunch of other stuff, It has a rain cover and movable dividers room for a laptop and ipad and more. Not sure how this did not make the list at the top.

Hey John, ah thanks so much for mentioning the Airport Essentials – I wasn’t aware of this one! Will no doubt add it to the list when I get my hands on a review unit. Cheers

Nice article, I have the Manfrotto Street dSLR Backpack, and it’s a pretty decent bit of kit – though a little on the long side so for the slightly vertically challenged folk like myself, you find it too far down your back. But it fits in so much gear and brilliant for travel as you can fit all your gear (2 bodies 3 lenses in my base) along with laptop (15″ macbook pro) no trouble. Those ONA bags look lush however, maybe a New Year pressie to myself could justify the cost? :) Good one Mark.

I recently bought the Lowepro Flipside 400 AW Backpack from https://www.wexphotographic.com/ for £89 and I love it. It carries everything I need for a shoot and much more. It’s better than my handbag!

Better than your handbag, Terri?! I should hope so! :p I agree with you though – it’s a great bag and probably one that I should have included here…

I have it too. Great bag although no laptop slot which sucks!

Hi Mark, you missed a few – I went around this journey in the Spring/Summer and came up with a different (and very practical) answer! https://macfilos.com/photo/2016/7/3/photo-bags-millican-billingham-domke-samsonite?rq=ohyo

Hey Bill, what a great blog post – thanks for sharing! I’ll have a proper read of it this weekend. Looks like you found the best camera bag solution in the end for you then ;-)

Got 2 bags here : https://www.wotancraft.com/en Love them…

Ah yes! I was meaning to add the Wotancraft Commander to this list. I reviewed a couple here .

👋 WELCOME TO SHOTKIT!

ABOUT YOUR EXPERT

Mark Condon has been a professional photographer for 10+ years and has reviewed hundreds of camera bags. At any one time, he's testing 5-10 new backpacks and has run out of space in his garage!

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• Wandrd Prvke
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10 BEST Camera Backpacks for Travel [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: March 27, 2024

If you’re in the market for the best camera backpack to take all your photography gear with you on your next epic adventure, then we’ve got you covered with the best backpack options and all the criteria to consider before making your purchase!

Buying a camera backpack can be one of the more difficult experiences a photographer might face in the retail arena.

The market is flooded with camera backpacks and new innovations are making it harder and harder to choose the right one for you.

The best camera bags out there are multi-functional, sturdy, and reliable and you can expect to spend a couple of hundred dollars to keep your camera safe.

However, your camera gear shouldn’t be compromised, so investing in a camera backpack that fits all your photography gear and will last you many years is imperative.

Here is a look at some of the best camera backpacks available today with some insight into what could make this the best backpack for you.

EDITOR’S CHOICE:

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

This bag easily takes the top spot in our guide to the best camera backpacks for its impeccable balance of form and function.

The back is sleek and modern, but its high level of adjustability and ample storage space makes it a fantastic everyday backpack and camera bag all in one.

The Best Camera Backpack

After you’ve invested a small fortune purchasing the best travel camera to perfect your photography skills it’s important to protect it with a great camera backpack.

Table of Contents

Wandrd Prvke

Lowepro whistler 350 aw ii, wotancraft nomad backpack, lowepro freeline bp 350 aw, thule aspect, langly multi-pack globetrotter, f-stop dalston 21l urban camera backpack, lowepro protactic 450 aw ii, manfrotto manhattan mover 50, camera bag type, storage/organisation, ease of use, weatherproofing, other unique features.

Of course you need more than just a bag that fits a body and a bit of accessories. So what is the best camera and lens backpack? That’s what we set out to discover!

Let’s look at camera bags that are taking the photography world by storm. We are talking, sleek design, versatility, and innovation, and most of all, comfort.

Just as the name suggests, this is an Everyday Backpack . You can easily transform it for uses beyond carrying camera gear without losing any of its organisational potential.

The bag includes three flex-fold dividers that are a revelation. No more floppy foam dividers that never seem to quite line up!

Internal space has been utilized to the max with stretchy internal side and top pockets and slip pockets for a wallet or passport. On the outside, you find side pockets that easily hold a water bottle or tripod.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack is ultra-comfortable and the vented quick-drying mesh back padding ensures breathable comfort, a must on long, hot days.

The bags are compatible with most body types thanks to the shoulder straps that pivot at axial points giving quick access to the side panels.

Peak Design makes contemporary simplistic bags like no other. The outside is minimalist with no dangling cords or tethers making it sleek and irresistible.

They also come in four muted colors: black, charcoal, midnight, and ash.

• Opens from either side or top
• Customizable for different gear
• Lifetime guarantee
• Feels small for a 20L pack
• Material not as durable as previous version
• Thin shoulder straps

First up, how to pronounce it – “Wandered Provoke”. Now that that’s out of the way…

The roll-top and magnetic tote handles give the Wandrd Prvke a more urban feel and the black, blue, and green colors are right on-trend.

The chunky hardware also gives the bag some added personality but is in perfect harmony with the minimalist aesthetic of the rest of the bag.

The interior is fully customizable with removable camera cubes. The front flap is also covered in pockets, begging the question “do I have enough things for all those pockets?”. The expandable roll-top will add another 5L to your capacity, perfect for last-minute items like a jacket or snacks.

The clamshell design of the Wandrd Prvke is great for organization, and the easy access side panel allows you to quickly grab your camera on the go. The cubes are also easy to remove and customize to make the Wandrd Prvke a great all-around bag.

The fleece-lined tech pocket is great for personal items you need quick access to, and the hidden passport/cash pocket in the back is a favorite feature if you want to keep your valuables close to you.

• Easy Camera Access
• Camera cube sold separately
• Clamshell opening in the back

We’re going to let you in on a little secret. This bag is so good, we own two of them!

Lowepro sticks to their iconic soft folding dividers with the addition of two removable pocket dividers for smaller items like a GoPro.

The CradleFit compartment with top access also holds a 13-inch laptop.

The Lowepro Whistler 350 bag offers top and body-side access and you can easily store Standard DSLR & Pro mirrorless cameras with multiple lenses.

The bag is designed for robust outdoor use so accessing some of the compartments might take slightly more effort, but this ensures your photography equipment stays well protected.

It is, however, super simple to convert it from a camera bag to an outdoor bag with enough room for plenty of alpine gear.

The Lowepro Whistler 350 AW ii is one of their more attractive bags with two high visibility orange straps at the front.

The compression straps also allow for the attachment of gear like skis or a snowboard, something you won’t often find on a camera backpack. It can support up to 100kg in weight!

• Great for heavy equipment
• Rugged and waterproof
• Basic organization configuration

The bag’s compact size makes it perfect for a mirrorless camera and multiple lenses.

The bag has tons of fun pockets and hidden compartments that might take some time to figure out but will prove to be super convenient in the long run.

It might look a little clunky, but the padded back is very comfortable, as are the wide shoulder straps.

The aluminum bars in the back help to keep the shape of the bag and secure a comfortable fit. Buying the additional waist strap could help shift up to 80% of the weight to your hips, a crucial bonus when carrying heavy photography equipment.

The bag is slightly tricky to figure out in the beginning but with tons of expandable space, it is a great camera bag for traveling. With many hidden compartments and little pockets for SD cards and other goodies, this bag is a treasure trove of organisation.

The bag looks world removed from traditional camera backpacks, and Wotancraft explains that they wanted to create a bag that looks like a nomadic bag. Job well done!

The vintage brass buckles and distressed camo look add tons of personality to the bag. There are also no visible zippers or flaps making the bag extra safe.

Flaps are sealed with magnets making zippers and compartments undetectable. The roll-top adds a lot of extra space, and the bag is designed to facilitate traveling with your gear, i.e. packing clothes and cameras all in one backpack.

• Most stylish camera backpack
• Great for gear and luggage
• Tricky to figure out
• Not good for lots of gear

The interior divider on the Lowepro Freeline is revolutionary. It is a three-tiered shelving system that snaps flat and is removed easily to turn the bag into a daypack.

It fits a 15-inch laptop in the back laptop compartment and a removable gear pouch sits in the bottom to organize your cables and chargers.

The side flaps also feature memory card pockets and deep pockets for miscellaneous items.

The bag is one of only a few that stands upright, a feature one often neglects to consider. The side access panels are easy to open thanks to smooth zippers and smart angles.

It is one of Lowepro’s most beautiful bags with minimal detailing and muted branding. The adjustable straps at the front have large buckles that give the bag a little urban twist to break the overall corporate design.

The shoulder strap has an in harness phone pocket on the front that should quite frankly become a standard on all backpacks. It keeps your phone, keys, or cards safe and instantly available.

• Genius shelf system
• Modern design
• Limited configurations
• No room for expansion

The side zipper opens to reveal removable dividers so you can custom curate your compartments.

The top flap gives you access to the main compartment and a few small organizational pockets.

The Thule Aspect backpack is a great basic backpack with two easy access points allowing simple access to your camera without the need to take off the bag.

The camera bag is sporty looking with relatively large branding and fun turquoise accents. It only comes in black but the material has an attractive woven design for added texture.

There aren’t many surprises with the Thule Aspect, but one super handy characteristic is the mesh pocket on the hip belt. It is the perfect spot to pop your lens cap in to always have it within reach.

• Comfortable fit
• Handy hip-belt pockets
• Only side access to the camera body
• Only holds a limited amount of gear

The Langly Multi-Pack Globetrotter is one of the best camera backpacks if you need to carry a ton of camera bodies and lenses.

It can fit one camera body and 10 lenses comfortably but the compartments can easily be adjusted to fit your preferred configuration.

The laptop sleeve sits at the top and fits a 16-inch laptop and there are seven external pockets and plenty of zip pockets on the inside for smaller items.

This bag is perfect for someone who needs access to a lot of photography gear, quickly and easily. The front completely zips open to expose the whole inside of the bag. There is also a top zipper for items you might need to grab on the go.

The material is completely waterproof because when you are carrying this amount of camera equipment, you do not want to leave anything to chance!

The bag is effortlessly cool and comes in two stylish colors, black and forest green. The vertical straps on the front add some unique detailing to it but the bag’s shape and overall feel lend it a “safari chic” aesthetic.

• Large enough for a studio setup
• Rugged and durable with a waterproof body
• The basic nylon hip strap is not padded
• No side access, you must take the bag off to get to your camera.

This is a great bag for an urban explorer carrying their core gear and a few essentials.

It’s great for a mirrorless camera and lens backpack but could fit a smaller DSLR camera body comfortably. There is also an expandable roll-top if you need to add a few last-minute things.

F Stop has made a bag that is simplistic in nature and great for an on-the-go schedule.

The camera is accessed through a large zipper on the side but there is no flap. The bag rather splits open at the side to reveal the camera compartment, making it better for smaller cameras than bulky full-frame gear.

The F-stop Dalston backpack is bold and not afraid to make a statement. It comes in a vibrant orange color or a more muted aloe green and the interior is bright blue.

Roll-tops are increasingly trendy and this bag will fit right in in a chic urban environment.

• Great waterproofing
• Expandable rolltop to expand the size
• The side-slit is difficult to access with larger cameras
• Limited organizational capability

The LowePro Protactic is an organisational dream with multiple conversion options with enough room for a full camera kit with multiple bodies, lenses, a drone, and smaller accessories with ease.

The front flap also has clear pockets for easy organization of loose items.

The front has a SlipLock system for hooks and tabs and multiple attachment points, great for adding extra accessories like a tripod or bottle pouch.

The bag is one of the heaviest bags on the list, but the robust removable hip belt works wonders to ease the load. The ActivZone targeted support system focuses on your shoulder blades and lumbar area for optimal comfort.

The LowePro Protactic 450 AW has four access points making it one of the most accessible bags on the market. The front clamshell design allows for full access to the main compartment, the top offers partial access, and two side panels zip open and can be accessed without taking the bag off.

The bag has a futuristic design and the SlipLock system on the front with horizontal attachment points add some extra grit. The hard shell at the top serves a valuable purpose but also enhances the futuristic aesthetic.

• Semi-hard shell gives excellent protection
• Multiple access points for ease of use
• Little external storage and the need for extra accessories arrises
• Heavy bag at almost 3kg

This backpack comes with a Flexi Camera Shell divider that provides much more structure than a standard foam camera cube.

It is also removable, converting your bag into an everyday backpack. There is a laptop compartment and a tablet compartment in the front and an expandable water bottle holder on the side.

You can fit multiple lenses and a DSLR camera as well as a drone and multiple accessories.

It is a great DSLR backpack for traveling. The main access point is in the back, and you would always need to take the bag off to grab your gear.

You can get to some camera gear from the top but this would also be hindered if you decide to pack some personal items in that compartment.

Thus, it is a great travel camera bag for carry-on luggage if you don’t need to put your camera away every few minutes. The laptop and tablet compartment is also in the front for easy access.

The bag is sleek and modern with a rectangular shape. It only comes in black and has minimal details on the exterior. It doesn’t shout “camera bag”, something you would want to consider when frequently traveling with your camera gear.

• Compact design but with optimal storage usage
• Flexi camera shell protection fits snug around gear
• Difficult to use if you need regular access to your camera
• No hip belt so not great for heavy loads

How to Choose the Best Camera Backpacks

Choosing the best camera bag can be a challenge. If you haven’t already decided on which is best for you, or you enjoy the thrill of the shop, take the following criteria to heart as you consider which camera pack is best for your needs.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our comprehensive travel photography blog , where you’ll find all our expert photo guides and tips.

Camera bags come in all shapes and sizes and chances are you will need multiple to fulfil all your needs.

Some bags are better for the active photographer while others are best suited for long-distance transportation and passive use.

A sling bag or messenger bag is great for quick day trips and for travel photographers with only one or two lenses and a single body.

However, a camera backpack is the best of all worlds and will serve multiple purposes.

Camera backpacks range from around 15L to around 50L, the average being 25L to 30L. It is great to get a bag that is expandable with the addition of a rolltop if you are traveling a lot.

Most bags also come with clip-on capabilities allowing you to add a tripod to the bottom or to the side, a water bottle to the other side, and sometimes even straps at the front for holding down items.

Assess your needs and the likelihood of you using these features, because extra straps could also be a nuisance if you know you will not use them. Then a more compact design would suit you better.

The more capabilities a bag has, the heavier it is, that’s an unavoidable fact. Rugged material weighs more and compartments also add weight to your bag.

So grabbing the toughest bag might not be the most sensible choice for you.

Not all bags come with waterproof material, and a lightweight sporty bag could offer just as much organizational potential as a robust adventure bag.

READ MORE: Need something for general adventures, not just photography? Check out our new guide to the best travel backpacks on the market!

This is probably the most important aspect of purchasing a camera bag. Most backpacks come standard with foam inserts that attach to the bag with velcro and allow for multiple storage configurations.

It is also important to remember that your camera gear will expand and change over time and you need a bag that will change along with that.

Also, look into how many extra little pockets and side pockets the bag has because you are bound to have lots of bits and bobs that need to be stored.

Batteries, filters, sd-cards, and lens caps are the first things to go missing if your bag doesn’t have multiple storage options.

Camera equipment is not light by any means, and even just a DSLR body and a lens can weigh a few kilos.

You will be carrying around this bag for hours on end and this weight, along with the weight of the bag, can become very uncomfortable to carry.

Look for a bag that, at the very least, has proper padded shoulder straps that are wide enough to not dig into your shoulder.

A waist belt is a great addition to especially large bags and can shift a massive part of the weight to your hips instead of your back.

It is great if the waist belt is removable as you won’t always be carrying around upwards of 10kg in your bag.

They do make bags more clunky so being able to take it off when you pack light is a great feature.

A padded back panel will also add to the comfort factor and some bags have metal bars that help significantly with your posture.

As bags become more complex, the ease of use sometimes goes out the window. Tons of configurations and pockets might seem like a good idea but how much time are you willing to spend optimizing the bag for your needs?

It is great if you don’t need to take the bag off to access the camera, but these access panels often limit your configuration capabilities.

Clamshell designs allow you to fully open the front flap to the main compartment, and the possibilities are endless for organising.

However, with these, you must take the bag off to access anything which could not be the best in all conditions.

Look for a bag that offers multiple access points and a divide between camera gear and personal items if you plan to use it as a travel backpack.

Zippers are also the first to go so thoroughly test all the zippers and ensure they are smooth as butter.

Will you be taking your camera backpack on a ski trip or deep into the jungle? Or will you simply be zipping around the city or carrying your camera to a concert?

Weatherproofing seems essential but it is not in everyone’s budget and the need for it isn’t always there, but a bag that is water-resistant could be a good middle ground to keep moisture out.

It could add a lot to the weight of the backpack when sometimes a rain cover would do just fine.

It is good to look at abrasion-resistant materials as your bag will be in use for many years and you want it to stay in peak condition.

If you are looking for a weather-resistant or water-resistant bag, also look for reinforced zippers that keep out moisture and dust.

This is the most personal part of buying a camera backpack and there are no hard and fast rules.

Today, camera backpacks are becoming more friendly for everyday use and can be converted into standard backpacks too.

Some bags don’t even resemble a camera backpack anymore and values form over function.

If you opt for a chic bag over a traditional-looking bag, make sure it still has all the functionality of a good bag, and don’t be blinded by a cool design.

READ MORE: Find a suitable travel tripod to take with you on your next trip with our expert buying guide !

Companies are constantly trying to outdo each other with unique features to their bag. Roll-tops are all the rage right now as is innovation on bag inserts.

Other great features include hidden passport pockets for safety, space for attachments, key hooks, a tripod holder, and a laptop compartment.

Again, this all comes down to personal needs and what you want from your camera backpack.

All in all, buying a camera backpack is a deeply personal matter and you won’t always get it right on the first try.

Over time, you realise what you want to carry with you and what your travel needs are.

A bag like Peak Design Everyday Backpack is one of the best travel camera backpacks as it hist the mark in nearly every category.

Organisation, style, and fit are all above the rest, but it is still up to you to assess what your bag needs to offer you in the end.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The best packable backpack of 2024 | top 10 best packable daypacks, a photo journey inside hang son doong – the world’s largest cave, the 16 best dive watches – ultimate buyers guide [2024], 1 thought on “10 best camera backpacks for travel [2024 guide]”.

Fantastic roundup of camera backpacks!

It’s interesting to see how different bags cater to various needs, like the rugged outdoor appeal of the Lowepro 350 AW ii versus the more urban chic of the Wandrd Prvke. My fav is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack. I like that you can use it for travel and other uses even when you don’t have to carry camera kits around.

One thing that caught my attention was the focus on organizational features. It’s a great to have a bag that not only protects your gear but also keeps it easily accessible and organized. I’m curious, though, do you find that more compartments and pockets actually streamline your workflow, or do they tend to make things more cluttered and harder to find?

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The Best Camera Backpacks of 2024

Hiking, battling through bustling airports, or strolling around town — you need a solid camera backpack to protect your sensitive lenses and gear on the go. After years of testing, we've narrowed in on the best packs for your precious cargo of 2024.

You can easily spend a small fortune on photography equipment, so it pays to protect your investment with the best camera backpack possible. Plus, you need to comfortably free up your hands between capturing shots when scrambling up rocky slopes, paddling a canoe, steering a cruiser, or carrying additional props.

Camera backpacks have big shoes to fill. Not only do they have to carry comfortably over the long haul, but have to feature easy access to all sorts of gear, and provide ultimate protection for that pricey glass. With such high responsibility, comes hefty price tags. So — to ensure you aren’t wasting your money on junk — we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. We took over 10 different camera packs into the wild in the past year alone, testing them on photo and video shoots around the world.

These packs traveled to Africa, Europe, and all over the U.S. loaded down with glistening lenses, drones, camera bodies, and gimbals to truly test their mettle. We kept an eye out for a number of key metrics when analyzing each model, including comfort, ease of gear access, and durability. Every backpack had to stand out in several categories to merit any real estate in this roundup.

Chris Carter, a Senior Editor for GearJunkie, and Kendra Smith, a GearJunkie contributor, teamed up for the creation of this guide. Carter comes from roots in freelance videography, shooting for shows on PBS, commercial work for outdoor brands, and personal travel documentary projects. His cameras accompany him to some gnarly locations — so he’s fastidiously fussy about the packs he chooses to protect them with.

Smith is an editorial photographer based in Minneapolis, MN. She has a multi-disciplinary background in photography, cultural anthropology, and communicative arts in marketing. She brought a number of the packs reviewed below on wild romps all over the globe to put them through their paces and gauge their merit.

Rest assured — each pack you see below has been vetted by our stone-cold pros and has proven to be worthy. Need a picture-perfect camera pack for your next adventure? We’ve got ya covered!

We’ve found the top camera bags for every budget and use — whether you need a simple, budget-friendly bag or a multicompartment gear hauler. If you want to learn more about the features that make camera bags unique, head to the bottom of the article to read the  buyer’s guide , comparison chart , and  FAQ .

Editor’s Note: We heavily refreshed this article on February 16, 2024, adding many new products, and re-writing a significant portion of the buyer’s guide. We also made sure our product list is up-to-date with current models, colorways, and designs, and added a slew of photos.

• Best Overall Camera Backpack: Nomatic McKinnon 35L
• Best Budget Camera Backpack: CADeN Camera Backpack
• Runner-Up Best Camera Backpack: Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L
• Best Camera Backpack for Flying: Lowepro Pro Trekker RLX 450 AW II
• Best Sling Camera Bag: Lowepro Trekker Lite SLX 120 Sling Camera Bag
• Best Lightweight Camera Backpack: Manfrotto PRO Light Backloader
• Best Camera Backpack for Backpacking: Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L Backpack

Nomatic McKinnon 35L

• Volume 35 L – 42 L
• Dimensions 22" x 13.5" x 9" (external), 21" x 12.5" x 5.25" (main compartment)
• Weight 5.75 lbs.
• Materials N900D square ripstop with 0.20mm film-laminated TPU65 coating

• Padded interior is ultra-protective and includes a padded waist strap
• Exterior fabric and zippers are durable and water-resistant
• Expands for change of clothes and toiletries
• Lots of sturdy storage
• No rain cover
• Heavy for long periods of travel

Here it is folks, the best of the best camera backpack of 2024! The Nomatic McKinnon 35L ($331) goes above and beyond to provide all the essential coverage for your professional camera gear while taking comfort and style seriously. This is our #1 pick. 

Let’s start with the build. The McKinnon Camera pack was constructed with travel in mind. There are two main compartments: the camera gear hub and the luggage hub. The camera gear compartment easily organizes your gear with sturdy padded dividers fitting multiple cameras, lenses, and accessories.

We fit two DSLR cameras, two lenses, a 35 mm camera, a Profoto AX1 flash, and a run-and-gun microphone attachment in the dividers. Additionally, there are multiple mesh zipper compartments for holding cords, hard drives, memory cards, and batteries.

The luggage compartment can easily hold a day or two worth of clothing without the 42L extension or up to 4 days of clothing when opening the zipper extension. There is a separate side computer compartment on the back panel that fits up to a 16’’ MacBook Pro laptop that is well padded and snug. All of the zippers are waterproof and the entire pack is built with ripstop fabric treated with film-laminated TPU65 coating making it extremely water resistant.

When maxing out the luggage compartment, it’s important to note that the backpack will not fit under the economy seats in smaller jet airlines. While hopping over a few states, we weren’t able to fit the pack under our seat or in the overhead compartment since it was a smaller jet. The flight attendants were kind enough to store it in the pilot’s closet.

This is only when filling out the luggage compartment of the pack and on smaller airplanes. If you are on a larger flight, like a Boeing 747, this should be no issue! If used only as a camera gear pack and without filling out the luggage compartment, we found that the backpack would fit in any overhead compartment. 

Another feature we really love is the exterior construction which is sturdy with waterproofing materials, and sleek in design. Even with all the compartments, straps, and handles, the design maintains a minimal, designer look. The fabric was constructed with high-strength nylon webbing and durable urethane-coated zippers and includes Hypalon lash points and reinforcements that are extremely resistant to the elements. 

One of the most important features of this backpack is the compression-molded EVA back panel that includes a hip harness and load lifter straps that relieve the heavy load of your gear from your back to your hips. This makes this camera backpack the most comfortable we’ve tested. The hip strap is removable which is a nice feature to have when using it for shorter days that don’t include as much weight or travel.

After running across multiple airports we did find ourselves wishing that this backpack could turn into a roller bag as the weight ultimately became too much to carry on our back when filled to the brim. This is when the padded, sturdy handles came in handy! Read on for a review of our favorite roller camera bag.

Ultimately, we found the Nomatic McKinnon 35L to be the leading champ in our best camera backpacks roundup for 2024. You just can’t go wrong with this sturdy, versatile, and supremely comfortable workhorse.

• CADeN Camera Backpack
• Volume 14 L
• Dimensions 11.5″ x 5″ x 14.2″
• Weight 2 lbs.
• Materials N/A

• Budget-friendly
• Two exterior bottle holders
• Lacks many interior pockets for organization
• Smaller volume
• Not the most quality construction

If you’re looking for a simple, inexpensive pack that will keep your camera gear safe, you can’t do better than  CADeN’s Camera Backpack  ($36). The name says it all — this bag gets the job done.

The Camera Backpack’s interior features the standard padded compartment walls. These can be configured to fit anything from two cameras with seven lenses to a camera and a drone plus accessories to just about anything else you can imagine.

As you’d expect in a no-frills pack, you’re not going to find a lot of organizational pockets. So you’re going to have to reserve some space in your main (only) compartment for your SD cards, batteries, and whatever other small items you want to bring. But it does sport a padded interior pocket that can fit a tablet or a 12-inch laptop.

On the  CADeN’s Backpack’s  exterior are two elastic pockets to hold bottles. One has a strap attachment above it so you can secure a tripod. The other is a flat external pocket to slide in a notebook or other smaller items.

As for the materials, the durable fabric helps prevent rips or snags from surrounding vegetation. The foam shoulder straps are designed for breathability while strolling around the streets or climbing hills on hot, sweaty days.

Obviously, this pack doesn’t have the bells and whistles of other packs on this list — and the plethora of typos and confusing sentences in the product description is slightly disconcerting. But it does what it’s designed to do, and you’d be hard-pressed to be able to say that about any other pack this affordable. Take it from us — and the nearly 11k ratings on Amazon — this budget pack won’t let you down.

• Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L
• Volume 20 L
• Dimensions 18.5" x 11.4" x 6.3"
• Weight 3.42 lbs.
• Materials 400D double poly-coated DWR nylon canvas shell, 900D waterproof bottom liner

• Sleek, extremely functional design
• Simple to access all gear from any angle
• Pass-through back for fixing to carry-on
• Tons of organization in a tiny package
• Beautiful construction and aesthetic
• Solid weather resistance for outdoor use
• Thin, sparsely padded straps get uncomfortable when pack is fully loaded with heavy gear
• We wish the sternum strap had a traditional clip
• Laptop can be a bit difficult to remove when bag is full

We didn’t quite realize the “everyday” element of PD’s Everyday Zip ($220) would truly permeate “every” element of our lives — but hoooboy do we love this backpack! It became our daily driver nearly the moment we slid it from the box, and has quite literally accompanied one of our authors on every trip he’s taken in the last five months of our testing period. Like old thru-hiking backpacks — or his dad’s ancient Kelty external frame riddled with spiderwebs in the basement — this is one of those rare packs he’s already formed an emotional connection with. It’s hard to beat this little beast.

Now, it definitely is a little beast. This isn’t designed to haul every lens in your loadout, multiple camera bodies, or any big fancy flash or audio rigs. Otherwise, it may be sitting at the top of this guide. The 20-liter volume of this gem allows you to carry just what you need for a simple day-long photo or video shoot, while still being fast and limber as you bounce around a wedding venue, or follow a film crew in the backcountry. For a bigger option, check out PD’s larger Everyday Backpack V2 , which comes in 20 or 30 liters, and is a bit beefier.

We included both bags in this guide because they are each so darn good in their own way — but we gravitate to the Everyday Zip for some reason almost every time. Its impossibly streamlined, almost space-age silhouette and near-perfect organizational layout have hit the sweet spot for most photo/video gigs we’ve hopped on recently. At just over 3 pounds it floats behind you, providing all-day comfort as long as it isn’t overloaded.

The Everyday Zip has a wrap-around zipper instead of the MagLatch closure hardware of the Everyday Backpack, less internal space, FlexFold dividers, and less external carry capacity. This may seem like a con, but to us, the simplicity has allowed us to be more efficient and grab our gear faster from any angle than we’re used to with the Everyday Backpack. It’s also one of the more stylish bags we’ve tested.

Two easy-to-customize FlexFold dividers can be configured in limitless ways inside the pack via Velcro, allowing you to carry more lenses with a smaller camera, or a larger cinema base rig with one or two lenses. A small zippered pouch up top stashes cords, SD cards, and tiny knickknacks. Magnetic pouches sit above zippered pockets on each side panel for more internal separation. A zippered laptop sleeve on the back is divided into two pouches, which easily accommodate our 13″ MacBook Pro and iPad. A couple of other small pouches help with the endless spaghetti of cords and chargers.

We’ve been consistently rolling with a Sony FX3 body and two medium-sized cinema and GM lenses, paired with a shotgun mic, and even a small LumeCube light or two, along with a DJI Mini 3 Pro drone — which all fit comfortably inside the pack with extra room to boot. Laptops are a tad hard to remove when the pack is fully loaded, though.

What makes this bag shine is its zipper and compartment layout. The pack features top and dual side access via a single 270-degree wrap-around zipper, with four different zippers to open whichever compartment of the pack you need. Robust handles on each side of the pack allow you to whip it around with ease to quickly access each segment, and the rotating shoulder straps let you drop the pack onto one shoulder and rip it open without plopping it on the ground. It just flows so well with our every movement, and seems to accommodate any scenario we find ourselves in on a shoot.

The 400D and 900D nylon canvas shell with a DWR coating shrugs off significant torture, and while this isn’t necessarily designed as a “hiking” pack, we’ve taken it to some wild outdoor locations and put it through its paces. It’s kept our gear dry in light snow and surprise showers, and resisted rips during multiple desperate bushwhacks trying frantically to get that perfect sunset shot.

Drumming up any cons for the Peak Design Everyday Zip feels downright impossible. But if we have to get nitpicky, we wish the shoulder straps had more padding (gets a bit uncomfortable when fully loaded), the sternum strap was a traditional buckle, and the laptop sleeve wasn’t so tight. Those qualms aside, this has got to be one of the best feats of engineering in the camera pack universe. We could go on and on, but in short — just buy the dang thing. You won’t be disappointed, and it’ll probably live on your back forever!

Lowepro Pro Trekker RLX 450 AW II

• Volume 28 L
• Dimensions 12.6" x 5.1" x 18" (internal), 14" x 10" x 20.5" (external)
• Weight 8.9 lbs.
• Materials 1680D ballistic polyester, 420D ripstop nylon, 500D polyester Kodra, Velex nylon

• Converts easily from backpack to roller bag
• Sized to meet standard carry-on requirements
• Optimal space for camera gear
• No waterproofing on zippers
• No separate area for carry-on clothing
• Heavy and bulky

When you’re a traveling photographer and you tend to bring your gear in a carry-on backpack, you can understand just how heavy your gear can get when standing through security lines, walking to and from gates, and on to your destination. The Lowepro Pro Trekker RLX 450 AW II ($470) is the perfect companion for traversing through cities and airports as an incredible camera backpack, with wheels.

Lowepro created the best “convertible camera backpack-roller” that protects and organizes camera gear in a compact, carry-on size. Like most of Lowepro’s gear, this backpack is a part of their “green” line with 69% recycled fabrics and comes with an all-weather rain cover. The ability to wear your camera backpack through any element with the option to convert to a roller bag is extremely helpful when traveling.

We tested this pack on an international trip to Belgium and the Netherlands. As you may suspect, it rained often on this trip and required the rain-fly which stood the test to the elements of both rain and street grunge. Both the camera backpack and roller bag modes were put to use at various times.

The Lowepro PRO Trekker RLX functioned as the carry-on on this trip and was worn as a backpack when traveling with a large carry-on suitcase. Once the suitcase was checked, it was easy to convert the camera backpack into a roller bag for ease of exploring the airport without the added weight on the back. 

How does this magical camera backpack convert you may ask? The back panel has a padded barrier that unbuttons to hide the backpack straps so they are not in the way of the roller bag or dragging. The buttons are very tight which makes it great at holding in the straps but a little tricky to fold in the straps nicely. It takes a little effort but is well worth the momentary struggle for long-term utility.

What we also really love about this pack is the amount of storage options. Like most camera packs, the padded dividers can move about to fit your gear, and are structurally sturdy. No one likes flimsy camera dividers. This pack also includes a separate zipper pack that can fit hard drives and other accessories that you may want to grab easily. There are two large zipper compartments on the internal back and up to 12 divided areas for camera gear or other accessories.

On one trip, we fit a Canon R5 with a 35mm macro lens, a Nikon 35 mm film camera, a Leica 35 mm point-and-shoot camera, multiple rolls of film, two LaCie hard drives, and two memory cards. The rest of the space was used for additional items needed in flight. The external compartment has space for a laptop or iPad, and book. There is a front zipper that is perfect for earbuds, pens, etc. Lowepro states that the laptop compartment fits a 15’’ laptop but we found that our 16’’ MacBook Pro fits just fine. 

When it comes to air travel, it’s no surprise that the Lowepro Pro Trekker RLX 450 AW II comes in first as the best Camera Backpack for Flying. It is the best we found for professional photographers who need maximum camera space and protection — without giving into a hard gearbox.

• Lowepro Trekker Lite SLX 120 Sling Camera Bag
• Volume 6.5 L
• Dimensions 11.8" x 5.5" x 9.4"
• Weight 1 lb.
• Fabric 300D recycled polyester ripstop, 600D solution dyed polyester

• Padded interior is ultra protective
• Exterior tripod holder
• Compact pack for short travel and transport or storage
• Recycled materials
• Not waterproof & no rain cover
• Slightly bulky

A good sling should be as versatile as it is light, and when considering the option of carrying a camera or two for your next rendezvous, the Lowepro Trekker Lite Sling ($85) provides protection, comfort, and packability.

We’ve carried the sling in various settings, both indoors and outdoors, for professional work and leisure, and can attest to its rugged yet refined elements.

The sling features an outer pocket, two clips to secure a packable tripod, water bottle, or rain jacket, and three grip handles on the side and top of the pack. The grips are handy to readily move the pack for quick access to your camera.

Unfortunately, the pack is lacking in coverage from the elements. It could use a rain cover and waterproof zippers, taking the sling to a whole new level of adventure. Whether worn as a hip-pack or a sling, robust padding lines the back panel providing essential comfort.

Internally, the sling houses multiple compartments. An internal zipper and two small stretch pockets on the outside of the padded camera barrier are perfect for keys, phones, and additional memory cards. The padded camera compartment is adjustable and can easily hold a full-size DSLR camera and lens.

It is sandwiched between front and back padded panels as well as a padded flap covering the entire camera area for added protection. The very back of the sling provides an internal padded sleeve for a journal or iPad. While slightly bulky, overall the storage provides top-notch organization and coverage.

Additionally, we especially like a padded sling that provides comfort whether worn along the waist, hips, or cross-body. The padded straps can be fully removed — which we found exceptionally helpful when packing the sling in carry-on luggage.

What we like most about the Lowepro Trekker Lite is the ability to adjust the sling straps to the hip or cross-shoulder depending on the use. We took the sling on urban bike rides, work events, and hikes, all packed with various cameras, lenses, and accessories depending on the day.

• Manfrotto PRO Light Backloader
• Volume 22.5 L
• Dimensions 12.60" x 10.24" x 20.47"
• Weight 4.17 lbs.
• Fabric Nylon, synthetic fabric

• Lightweight
• Ultra shock resistant
• Sleek design
• Easily a daily professional camera backpack as well as a travel companion
• Zippers are not water resistant
• Hip and chest straps are not padded but possibly not needed

The overall weight of a camera backpack can be critical when traveling any distance with your gear. That’s why we recommend the Manfrotto Pro Light Backloader ($215) for an easy load with maximum protection. It’s sturdy yet lightweight and fits the maximum amount of gear in a backpack.

We suggest this camera backpack when traveling about town and on flights that require a lighter load and security. Weighing in at just over 4 lbs, the Backloader maintains a secure cube system with a new “M-Guard Protection System” that is shock-resistant and lightweight. The dividers are made of high-density EVA foam that is both thin, protective, and easy to maneuver to fit your gear. We stored two DSLR cameras, a 24-70 mm lens, a 35 mm lens, an on-camera flash, a 35 mm film camera, and a jumble of charging accessories. 

The outer shell of the backpack is reinforced with a “viscoelastic memory foam” that absorbs impacts without an overly thick appearance. There are simple clips on the side to hold a tripod or other items if you get creative with travel! The 16’’ MacBook Pro fits nicely in the front laptop zipper with room to hold an additional notebook or other small accessories. It seems that any charging devices would be best stored internally, either in the top cubby that is accessible from the top zipper or in one of the three pockets on the inside of the back panel.

One thing we really like about two of the pockets is that there are no zippers, making it a little quicker to grab while holding items securely. It is also important that the pockets are mesh which allows you to see what is inside without digging around! This backpack does not have waterproofing built into the zippers but does come with a rain cover. 

If traveling with a roller bag, rather than the traditional back sleeve, the backpack has a side handle to hold onto a suitcase and fits snugly under the seat of an economy flight. We use this backpack both for flight travel and as a daily gear pack when going to various shoots in the city that require more than one camera. Additionally, there are hip and chest straps available when the load does feel extra heavy. These are simple and not padded but a nice option for longer journeys.

Lastly, the Manfrotto Pro Light Backloader really focuses on the protection of the gear, not only from impact but also from theft. The backpack does come with a “TSA lock” that is handy to add a little more ease when traveling but we would never suggest that your camera backpack be checked! This lightweight backpack allows you to carry heavy gear with the least amount of added weight as possible with ultimate protection.

• Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L Backpack
• Volume 45 L
• Dimensions 31.5" x 10.5"
• Weight 2.38 lbs.
• Fabric 210D Waterproof Cordura Ripstop, Rugged Powermesh

• Carries full backpacking loadouts with tons of camera gear without being too heavy
• Full feature set and plenty of cushion
• Quick, easy camera access
• Water- and tear-resistant fabric
• Need to purchase camera insert separately
• Light materials make the bag a bit floppy/difficult to load up

When the film or photog gig demands overnight forays in the mountains — or there’s just too much dang gear to haul in a smaller day pack — you’ll need something akin to a traditional backpacking pack to schlep your precious glass.

Camera backpacking backpacks are surging in popularity as filming long excursions with expensive gear becomes more and more a possibility for the prosumer. After taking a few of these hardy beasts on long romps in the woods, we narrowed in on the sleek and light Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L ($250) pack as our top pick for this niche category.

Though not the most specced out and technical heavy hauler on the market, the Strohl stood out as a healthy balance between function and weight, while still keeping a basic camera setup safe from the trials and tribulations on the trail.

We admit, our backpacking mindset lands squarely in the ultralight cult — so read on with that in mind. We are constantly searching for ways to streamline our setup and whittle down our base weight on long thru-hikes or even weekend missions on trail.

While chucking multiple lenses, heavy camera bodies, mics, etc. into our classic ultralight packs we quickly realized how impossible it is to keep the featherlight weights we’re used to, and how quickly our shoulders start screaming at us. However, it’s easy to swing to the other fringe of the spectrum and snag a bag with so many compartments, straps, and cushions that you end up hauling way more than you ever should on a multi-day battle in the wilderness.

The Strohl treads the fine line between ultralight minimalism and supportive comfort for carrying clunky loads. A full suspension system and internal frame transfer hefty loads to the hips well, and it has an overall balanced feel as you trot and bounce over variable terrain.

A plush hipbelt, shoulder and hipbelt pockets, side straps, a removable brain, a molded back panel, and near-waterproof Cordura fabric decorate this pack — though it still boasts a modest weight of 2 pounds, 6 ounces. No small feat!

Quick camera access was clearly a goal of Moment when designing this pack. Swing it off your shoulder, plop it down, and rip open a subtle storage compartment that sits right on the lumbar portion of the back panel. The lid slides smoothly open, giving you unrestricted access to a large camera and multiple lenses. You can easily stash your own camera cube in this space, or grab Moment’s own MTN Light Camera Insert ($50) for seamless integration and sturdy attachment with the pack.

The insert can accommodate camera sizes up to a Canon 5D body with four lenses. Unfortunately, this insert doesn’t come with the pack and must be purchased separately — which stands out as our biggest ding to an otherwise incredible model.

The Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L is a dream for the ultralight creative. It allows you to stash days of food and supplies above your camera gear, and head into the hills with confidence and a spring to your step. Don’t let intimidating backpacking missions keep you from capturing them with cinema quality!

• Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW
• Dimensions 6.30" x 10.63" x 18.90" (Internal), 12.20" x 9.45" x 21.26" (External)
• Weight 3.73 lbs.
• Fabric Water-resistant nylon

• A plethora of dividers and storage options for camera gear
• Easy camera access from all sorts of angles
• Comfortable suspension system for an all-day carry
• Personal storage compartment is a bit limiting
• On the clunky/heavy side

Now, we don’t like to use the word “perfect” in this line of work, and well… we aren’t going to use it now. But boy were we tempted with this review! Lowepro clearly (based on the concentration of bags in this guide) stands out as perhaps the most prominent producer of incredible camera bags, and their Flipside Trek BP 450 AW ($290) carries the torch of their reputation. This thing is simply magical to use on gear-intensive photo/video shoots.

Our author had this pack on his Amazon wish list for years before writing for GearJunkie, and it represented the “dream” camera bag for him as he perused options online and dabbled in the freelance filmmaking world. His budget, though, didn’t quite allow it at the time. It wasn’t until actually building this roundup that he had the opportunity to test it — and it was just about as good as he imagined.

For us, this pack carries just about the optimal amount of bodies, lenses, and miscellaneous camera trinkets for a full day of shooting or filming, with a modest amount of personal belongings in tow. We do wish the “open zone” compartment for personal gear was a bit more robust — but you can’t have it all. It does have a small compartment for an iPad.

With the amount of camera storage you have available, it’s easy to pack on the pounds in this pack, but the ActivZone suspension system makes it bearable. This thing carries like a breeze and feels incredibly balanced.

Ease of access to our gear from any angle is a vital characteristic we sniff out when reviewing camera packs. With sleek “Flipside” side access technology, and a hinged lid and back panel that nearly entirely folds open to the camera compartment, the Trek BP 450 scores top marks in this department.

This creative combo allows you to wear the waistbelt, flip the bag around your body, and access your gear without ever having to set the bag on the ground. A cherished touch on high-pace shoots.

The streamlined silhouette seems to contour perfectly with our body, and it’s just a downright rugged, good-lookin’ bag. Tote a day’s worth of pricey glass and a modest amount of personal goods on trail, or bop around a professional set with about as much comfort as you could ask for — the Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW is the tool for the job.

Hex Back Loader V2

• Dimensions 18.5" x 12.0" x 5.5"
• Weight 3.25 lbs.
• Fabric 900D poly exterior

• Lots of storage for work accessories
• No water-resistant materials

A daily camera backpack is one you typically want for working remotely, commuting about town, and carrying some camera gear along the way in case something captures your eye. We found that the Hex Back Loader V2 ($200) backpack is the perfect daily companion.

This camera backpack seems to keep in mind the work of journalists, influencers, and social media gurus who need their DSLR handy with a mic and maybe a few lens options. Lighter than the Manfrotto Light — the Hex isn’t ideal for large amounts of heavy gear but does match perfectly for daily work life. 

What we found especially great about this backpack was the pockets for everyday items like pens, notebooks, your laptop, iPad, and other accessories — including a bottle holder for your water, coffee, or wine. It’s clear it was made with everyday work life in mind. The outer shell is water resistant but unfortunately doesn’t come with a rain cover — you’ll have to fit this one under your rain jacket for the rainy season. 

There’s a top zipper to easily access a camera or lens while on the go. And the straps of the pack and the entire back outer panel have this nice mesh fabric that seems to breathe well. We’ve all experienced those sweaty back and armpits from backpacks so we found this especially nice to counter sweat. Additionally, there are two simple clips on the Loader V2 to strap in your tripod or glamor light.

Internally, the camera pods do hold a good amount of gear but we would be careful to put the most valuable and likely heaviest gear in the center panels as the outer shell lacks substantial protection from a bad fall or hit. Like most camera backpacks, the pods are adjustable to your gear and liking!

Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW II

• Volume 25 L
• Dimensions 14.2″ x 8.6″ x 20.5″
• Weight 5 lbs.
• Fabric Nylon & polyester

• Flexible, customizable dividers
• Includes rain protection and rain cover
• Water bottle holder
• Svelte, professional aesthetic
• Provides lumbar support but the hip belt and back support could be even more robust for the heavy load for some folks
• Durable but not the most durable pack we’ve tested
• Not the largest volume

The first thing you notice about  Lowepro’s ProTactic 450 AW II   ($230) is its understated design. A flat black exterior with webbing throughout perfectly blends style and utility. As great as the exterior looks, this bag really shines when you open it up.

With enough room to fit two DSLR or mirrorless cameras, additional lenses, and even a drone, you won’t need to decide which device to take on your trip. You’ll simply be able to bring the best gear for whatever situation arises.

The padded, flexible dividers can be adjusted to multiple configurations. This allows you to arrange your camera gear however you want. And the tough EVA-molded top padding all around the bag keeps it safe.

We love the ease of entry and gear accessibility of this design. We can grab our camera from the side of the pack on the go, thanks to a lower-corner entry point with a zip closure. There’s also a top entry point. We can also lay the pack flat and open the full face of the front via a U-shaped zipper.

The  ProTactic 450 AW II  features smaller pockets in the back panel to keep your batteries and cords organized. Further, quick-lock straps and a tripod cup let you attach a tripod for traveling.

Want to do your edits on the road? Lowepro has you covered with a protective laptop pocket that will hold up to a 15-inch laptop. And the integrated water-resistant rain cover keeps everything safe and dry if you get caught in a downpour.

No matter how protective a backpack is, it won’t matter if you hate carrying it around. But Lowepro thought of that as well. The brand added targeted support at the shoulder blades, lumbar, and waist so you can haul your gear all day in comfort. Ultimately, this is an excellent day-in, day-out photography pack.

• Thule Covert 32L
• Volume 32 L
• Dimensions 14.2" x 9.1" x 20.5"
• Weight 4.71 lbs.
• Fabric Polyester

• Durable construction
• Velcro dividers are quick and easy to use
• Easy side access
• Removable padded camera pod
• Massive back panel opening
• Roll-top closure for expandability
• So much organization/pockets can get overwhelming
• Resists a bit of water but not heavy rain
• Zippers can be a tad sticky

You probably know Thule from those sleek rooftop cargo boxes you see on that Subaru flying by you on the freeway toward some exotic destination — but the brand also makes excellent packs. And the  Covert  ($320) lives up to its reputation for quality and innovation.

The first thing we noticed was the removable padded camera pod that can be worn as a sling or shoulder bag. This is a separate pocket that can fit up to a prosumer DSLR camera with an ultra-wide-angle lens and a DJI Mavic Pro drone.

Cleverly, you can pull the pod out and just take your camera and drone with you without hauling all your gear. The camera pod sports a unique design quirk — the interior organizer takes inspiration from origami, folding in multiple configurations so you can store your cameras however you’d like.

We also love the Covert’s roll-top compartment. It’s spacious enough to take along your personal items and adds a touch of flair to the pack. The customizable interior will hold two lenses, a flash, and all your drone accessories.

An interior partition separates personal gear from fancy camera glass, and fully unzips to tuck away into a mesh pocket for unrestricted use of all internal space. This is especially helpful if you decide to remove the camera pod and use this as a more traditional travel pack. The durable nylon exterior is somewhat water-resistant — though you don’t want to be caught in a downpour without a pack cover.

Additionally, the back-panel laptop pocket will fit both a 15-inch laptop and a tablet. Keeping everything organized is a zippered separator between the roll-top compartment and the bottom compartment. Plus, a wide range of stash pockets offers quick access to your accessories. So many pockets and pouches are nice, but can get a bit overwhelming at times, and we often forget where we’ve shoved small trinkets. For the hyper-organized however — this is a dream come true.

Thoughtful features have been added since previous iterations, including a sparsely padded hipbelt that can be stowed away, and a luggage pass-through panel on the back that easily attaches to rolling luggage. All in all, the Thule Covert is a sleek, stylish bag that offers supreme organization in a compact package. We’ve been really digging this pack for gear-intensive day shoots where a million little cords, lenses, filters, and cameras need their own separate home.

USA Gear DSLR Camera Backpack Case

• Dimensions 12″ x 8″ x 18″
• Weight 2.5 lbs.
• Fabric Nylon

• Includes a rain cover
• Loads of storage options
• Easily accessible camera compartment, including side door
• Waist strap is bare-bones without padding
• Chest strap is not vertically adjustable
• We’d like to see zipper pulls with rings large enough for locks
• A bit clunky and boxy

If your biggest pet peeve is having to dig around in your pack to find a specific accessory, this pack from  USA Gear  ($70) is the pick for you. We’re astonished at the amount of storage and organization crammed into a pack of this size.

There are dedicated pockets all over this pack. The lower back panel lid has two rectangular Velcro pockets that can store charging cords. The top lid has a smaller mesh pocket for batteries and smaller charging cords. And a smaller zipper pocket on the very back has webbed elastic pockets to keep your SD cards organized.

The USA Gear DSLR’s main compartment splits into two sections. The padded bottom compartment sports customizable walls you can reconfigure to your liking, with room for your DSLR, lenses, flash, and other accessories. And it offers side access to your camera, so you can whip it out when an opportunity for a great shot comes up unexpectedly.

The spacious top compartment has room for any other gear you want to bring. The padded laptop case will fit anything up to a 15-inch laptop. And the drawcord side pocket can house a water bottle or your tripod, thanks to the securing strap above it.

Ultimately, the cost of the USA Gear DSLR pack is an entry-level price and serviceable, the padding is fair, and the durability is moderate, so this design is a good fit for a risk-averse, super-attentive photographer.

Altura Camera Sling Bag

• Dimensions 8.1″ x 6.4″ x 17″

• Mesh interior pocket holds smaller items
• Fairly small pack for day trips
• Minimal room in pack

If two-strapping isn’t quite your style,  Altura’s Sling Bag  ($50) is another great sling option for you. This lightweight bag sports a side-accessible interior pocket with padded, adjustable dividers, and enough room for a DSLR and extra lenses or accessories.

The top storage compartment will fit extra lenses or a flash unit. And mesh interior pockets and a small exterior zip pocket will keep your cables, batteries, and SD cards secure and organized.

We appreciate the broad and easy front entry, which features a three-sided zipper. And the farthest edge reaches to the backside of the pack . It’s deep and three-dimensional instead of offering two-dimensional access.

The padded sling design allows for rotation from the back to the front for quick access to your pack. And the exterior side pocket, strap, and buckle hold a tripod securely to your pack.

Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III

• Dimensions 12.4″ x 9.3″ x 21″
• Weight 3.2 lbs.

• Glove-friendly buckles
• Molded-in dividers that hinge flat or open to create or collapse interior compartments
• Bottom handle makes grabbing pack easy in an overhead carry or truck bed
• Would be great to see additional lock security that works when the pack is not being worn

The  Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III  ($178) is an equally stout and dependable everyday adventure camera pack as our top choices — so don’t let its location in this guide dissuade you! The main compartment fits a DSLR, several additional lenses, a folding drone kit, and a 15-inch laptop.

It also has extra space for personal items. The exterior pocket and security strap nicely carry a tripod, and accessory pockets inside and out help us keep all the accessories neatly organized.

Beefy, U-shape pull tabs on the zippers make access to the pack’s primary zone that much smoother. The topmost section of the pack is an open area and a nice storage hammock for everyday stuff — a midlayer, rain jacket, wallet, and the like.

The middle front pocket zips open with additional storage pockets inside, including one with a tricot liner that’s friendly against a phone screen or sunglasses lens. An external pocket on the front is spacious for keys, a wallet, or a small journal.

The electronics garage is in the bottom half. The  Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III’s  device zone features interior molded-in dividers that are adjustable, which makes them easier and quicker to switch up compared to Velcro attachment points.

On the side, there’s a quick door for fast, easy access even while the pack hangs over one shoulder. Once the glove-friendly safety buckles are opened, that same zipper wraps around to the front, allowing a greater range of access to gear.

To help withstand a sudden onset of rain, an included all-weather cover pulls over the pack for additional protection. Otherwise, the exterior fabric on the bottommost half of the pack is PU-coated to prevent damage from dirt, moisture, or rough vegetation. The fabric on the upper half is a robust 300-denier ripstop that’s weight-saving.

We really appreciate the padded waist belt, which means running a mobile office can be that much more comfortable and supportive of our long-term back health. Also, the security loophole is a nice touch — the wide U-shaped zipper pull fits into a buckle, so thieves can’t open the device zone as you wear the pack. (But a lock system would be necessary if you’re  not  wearing the pack.)

The pack can sit upright solo too. It’s no surprise we like more than one camera pack from this solid brand.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 20L

• Volume 20 L or 30 L
• Dimensions 13″ x 11.8″ x 18″
• Weight 4.5 lbs.
• Fabric 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell

• Expandable side pockets for water bottles or tripods
• Optional hip belt (purchase separately)
• Four external carry straps and sternum strap are all stowable
• A bit on the heavy side for a daily driver

Gear from San Francisco-based company Peak Design is well-known for its minimalist look combined with an ingenious design for travel and everyday life. And the  Everyday Backpack V2  ($280) is no exception. The exterior’s clean lines and absence of excessive straps give it the impression of a dearth of features.

But once you open the pack, you’ll find that plenty of thought and innovation went into its design. This pack is very similar to our runner-up best overall, PD’s Everyday Zip 20L , but offers a bit more protection and storage.

You can easily configure this pack for photography or videography alike, and its versatility is truly where it shines. It holds enough room in the main compartment to fit a DSLR camera and nearly five extra lenses or a DJI Mavic drone and all the necessary accessories. It stores them in the form of three slide-out divider shelves that are accessible via the zippered side pockets.

The dividers can fold into different shapes to allow you to customize the configurations to fit different styles of gear. A protective laptop compartment will accommodate up to 15-inch laptops and it can be adjusted to fit smaller laptops.

The pack has additional pockets for tablets and documents, and the side access panels have smaller zippered pockets to store memory cards, batteries, and smaller items. For ease of travel, three padded grab handles are placed on the top and side for a briefcase-style carry.

The Everyday Backpack V2’s bottom is lined with 900-denier waterproof fabric. Otherwise, the durable fabric is a blend of nylon, polyester, EVA, and super-weather-resistant Hypalon.

We appreciate the brand’s innovative, earth-friendlier manufacturing choices: a 100% recycled 400-denier weatherproof shell and the solution-dyed charcoal color option, which saves energy and water. The weatherproof zippers help prevent moisture entry, and the mesh padding along the back is breathable and comfortable.

Designed as a daily driver workhorse, the pack works well even if you’re not taking your camera gear with you. Sliding out the dividers provides plenty of room for your laptop, along with anything else you need for your day — lunch, a jacket, and a 12-pack of adult beverages — with some extra room for anything you pick up during the day.

WANDRD PRVKE 21L V2

• Volume 21 L (only option for photography bundle), 31 L, 41 L
• Dimensions 19" x 11" x 6.5"
• Weight 2.8 lbs.
• Fabric Waterproof tarpaulin, robic 1680D ballistic nylon

• Waterproof materials and water-resistant zippers
• Optional accessory straps have six different attachment point options
• Sternum strap is adjustable and removable
• Luggage pass-through thanks to webbing on back panel
• So many pockets!
• Need to purchase camera elements separately if not buying it as a bundle

If you need a bag that can go anywhere regardless of the weather, the  WANDRD PRVKE 21L photo bundle  ($299) is the way to go. Consisting of the PRVKE 21 pack, accessory straps, a waist pack, and a rain fly, this rugged set is one of our better picks for hiking on this list.

The back panel and shoulder straps feature improved comfort through a more ergonomic shape and additional padding. Plus, there’s a side access port to quickly grab the camera while you trek. Otherwise, the clamshell opening makes gear access so simple and easy on the fly. Magnets in the handles mean they can snap together for a tote-style carry.

This 21L pack’s main body can fit your camera body, extra lenses, a drone, and a flash unit in the main compartment with its removable padded separators. If you need to bring more along, the expandable rolltop unfurls to add an extra 5 L of space to the pack. Smaller internal pockets keep your accessories organized.

Pockets galore! We especially like the elastic mesh internal pockets that allow you to store your SD cards individually for easy access. No more digging around in the bottom of your pack looking for that SD needle in the haystack.

We also love the large, streamlined front organization pocket, which is a solid spot for a journal or field notebook. The hidden passport and cash pocket (which is built into the lower half of the back panel) is a tad larger than the pack’s earlier edition, and three accessory pockets are now on the laptop and tablet sleeve.

The laptop sleeve will store up to 16-inch laptops, and the tablet sleeve will fit up to 12.9-inch screens. The felt-lined tech pocket will keep your phone, sunglasses, or other scratch-prone items safe.

True to the bag’s “go anywhere” design, the removable waist belt allows you to customize your harness system to wherever you go. You can take off the straps for taking pictures around town, and then add them again for photoshoots out in the backcountry. The WANDRD PRVKE 21L is a stylish, functional, and protective bag for just about any destination you want to capture.

Camera Backpacks Comparison Chart

How We Tested Camera Backpacks

With decades of experience behind the lens, GearJunkie’s rabble of creatives is no stranger to flashy photography trinkets — and they know the importance of keeping that precious glass safe and sound in any environment.

A good camera backpack is the foundation of a successful shoot. It keeps thousands of dollars of heavy, fragile gear cocooned in cushy compartments, and is the difference between getting that perfect shot, or endlessly fumbling around while the sun sinks below the horizon.

For that reason, our team doesn’t take our testing lightly. We rummaged around online forums, bugged our pro photog contacts, and scoured the tables at gear shows to narrow in on the absolute best roundup of camera backpacks on the market. Rest assured — this list represents the crème de la crème of these niche, fancy packs.

Senior Editor Chris Carter and GearJunkie contributor Kendra Smith joined forces for the most recent revamp of this guide. Taking over 10 different camera backpacks on shoots and adventures all over the world, they reviewed this fresh stock of packs over a 7-month testing period before feeling comfortable settling on the list you see above.

These backpacks wound their way along cobblestone streets in Europe, bounced across the dusty African savannah, and slowly plodded up endless Sierra switchbacks in California. We clocked some serious distance with each model, and would feel confident recommending any one of them for your various photography ventures.

Drawing from years of documentary work, commercial gigs for outdoor brands, and stints as a freelancer and PBS cameraman, Carter pulled from a diverse film and photog resume to help inform the direction of this guide. His cameras are unwittingly toted to some seriously wild locations, and he is extremely picky about the backpacks he grabs to protect them with.

Smith is an editorial photographer based in Minneapolis. She has a multidisciplinary background in photography, cultural anthropology, and communicative arts in marketing. She hauled a number of the packs reviewed above on wild romps all over the globe to put them through their paces and gauge their merit.

For an extended multiday production on complicated sets, or a simple day shoot at a local wedding — we’ve got a camera backpack for your specific needs.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Camera Backpack

When considering the perfect camera backpack for your personal or professional pursuits, it’s important to think of location, distance, accessibility, and capacity. Additional considerations are materials and capacity, comfort, and value. Things like weather, durability, body type, and budget will also come into play when making the best personal choice in a camera bag.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you may want a simple hip pack to carry your camera and other essentials, while a professional photographer will need a bag with substantial weight capacity along with storage and good padding for protection. In any case, thinking through when and where you’ll use your camera backpack will help guide your purchase. Below are a few good questions to ask yourself before making your purchase.

• Is this for professional or personal use?
• Do I need a daily camera bag or does this have a specific use such as travel, hiking, or commuting? 
• How many cameras, lenses, and accessories are necessary to fit into the camera bag?
• What is my comfort level with weight?
• How accessible do I need my camera to be in my bag?
• Do I need a computer insert? How large is my computer or tablet?

It’s worth noting that all of the packs we listed above serve the niche purpose of transporting and protecting sensitive camera gear. If you’re on the hunt for other backpack categories, be sure to check out our comprehensive review on the absolute best backpacking backpacks , or our streamlined roundup of the best daypacks for everyday use. All of these packs could also be converted to DIY camera backpacks with the inclusion of some nifty camera cubes — but it sure is nice to have an all-in-one package.

As every photographer knows, location is everything, and with that comes weather, lighting, and terrain. These aspects will inform some of the most important elements your camera pack should be prepared for — and hopefully help narrow down your options. 

Based on location, a common accessory to many photographers is the tripod. Most camera backpacks have clips to hold a tripod but this very much depends on the size and weight of the trip, so look out for the specs of the pack and your tripod when considering how important a tripod holder is to your camera backpack. 

If you know there is a higher risk of inclement weather, you will want to look for waterproofing or water-resistant materials on the fabric and zippers or a rain cover. Another major element to consider is dirt and dust. At the very least, good camera backpacks keep out the dirt from getting inside your pack so check out the materials section below for more information.

Consider the full range of conditions and environments you plan on shooting in when choosing your camera backpack. This will largely determine the capacity, materials, and overall organizational features of the pack that are best for your needs.

Knowing how far you need to travel with your camera backpack will help inform how durable your pack should be and how much weight you’re willing or able to carry for that distance.

In general, thicker materials with double-stitching in the seams and straps will help your pack manage normal wear. Ripstop and other strong materials help with extensive wear for increased or long-term use. It’s important to note how much or little space that your pack allows compared to your gear. Ironically, the tighter your gear fits into your pack the better, as extra room allows your gear to get knocked around while traveling. Either get the perfect fit or find ways to make that space tighter.

If you’re carrying your pack longer distances with substantial weight, you’ll definitely want to consider choosing a backpack with waist and chest straps to balance the weight distribution of your gear. A good long-distance pack also has substantial padding around the walls of the front, back, and side of the backpack as well as the interior separators.

We narrowed in on the Moment Strohl Mountain Light pack as our heavy hauler of choice for long backpacking trips. The AtlasPacks Athlete Camera Backpack is another — slightly smaller — stellar pick in this category. Packs like these allow you to safely carry a full camera loadout in addition to a basic backpacking kit for multiday travel in the backcountry.

Flying With Camera Backpacks

Inevitably, you’re going to have to cross some big ponds during your filmmaking/photography exploits — which can be an understandably disconcerting experience. Not everyone — TSA *cough cough* — understands just how fragile and expensive this glass can get. Horror stories abound of camera gear getting ruined in transit between countries.

Your best line of defense against these woes is to carry all of your pricey gear in either your carry-on or your personal item. You can then stash more durable gear like a tripod, mounts, or a bulky camera cage, in your checked bags.

Our favorite combo for schlepping gear for even moderately complicated shoots abroad is to slot a large camera cube, such as PD’s Medium or Large Camera Cube V2 , into a hard-sided carry-on like the one above, and fill it with any assortment of lenses, mics, or sensitive filters. We then pack our pricey camera bodies and some of the more expensive lenses in a smaller personal item-sized camera backpack — like PD’s Everyday Zip 20L or Lowepro’s Trekker Lite SLX 120 Sling Bag .

This streamlined combo has allowed us to haul an absurd amount of film gear all over the world for everything from simple photo gigs, to complicated multi-month international video projects. Never once have we had to put anything fragile in a checked bag. Though this does make our personal items quite heavy, it’s a price we’re willing to pay for peace of mind.

Checked bags get chucked haphazardly around while loading and unloading onto planes, and we’d rather not worry one bit about a cracked lens or broken body. With that said, we’d still recommend purchasing gear insurance before going anywhere too wild.

If your camera loadout is simply too massive for your personal luggage, you can splurge on something like the bombproof 1615 Air Case from Pelican to check sensitive gear — but this gets pricey fast.

We recently were able to shove multiple camera bodies, a slew of bulky lenses, camera cages, gimbals, mics, monitors, and all manner of awkward-shaped tech accessories into this carry-on/personal item combo and travel stress-free to Africa for a months-long video project in brutal conditions.

The multiple access points of PD’s Everyday Zip, and easily accessible organization of the camera pod in our carry-on, allowed us to quickly reveal our suspect film gear to prying airport security eyes without having to spill all of our personal contents on the ground at checkpoints. A cherished detail.

When traveling internationally, it’s safe to assume that expensive camera gear will be scrutinized while going through airport security. It’s therefore best to have everything as easily accessible as possible if/when your bag gets pulled aside to be rummaged through.

It’s also helpful to have an itemized list on hand of what camera gear you’re bringing into the country, and its rough monetary value — as we’ve been asked for this on multiple occasions while traveling abroad. Having to scroll through your recent Amazon purchases to wrangle this info together last minute while folks wait impatiently behind you is less than fun.

Pods/Camera Cubes

Camera pods/cubes are another important feature to consider, and can be immensely helpful when flying or road-tripping around — as mentioned above. Pods, or “camera cubes” can make many different backpacks into camera backpacks, and are smaller inserts that fit within a larger pack. They generally have foam dividers for cameras and lenses, and vary in sizes.

First, be on the lookout for pods that are and are not included. Many packs are now offering pods as an add-on to create a more customized bag that can double as a camera backpack or regular pack. The add-on options allow you to choose what size of pods you need. In any case, try to visualize where your gear will be placed in the pods, how many you need, and how to customize them to your needs.

Some of our favorite camera cubes are Peak Design’s Camera Cube V2s and Lowepro’s GearUP Pro Camera Boxes . We’ve been using the small and medium PD cubes to make our regular carry-ons into full-fledged camera rollers, and the GearUP Boxes for carrying loads of heavy bodies and lenses on backpacking trips.

The ability to slide them in and out of any backpack makes these shoo-ins for just about any adventure we’ve gone on during this testing period. The PD cubes also work seamlessly with all Peak Design bags — such as their sleek Travel Duffels — and can be securely clipped into attachment loops within the bag.

We love being able to store a body and one or two lenses in LP’s GearUP Boxes, and slide them vertically into our backpacking backpack for quick, multidirectional access to our camera mid-trek. The GearUPs have a large zippered opening on the front to access everything when you pull it out of your pack, or you can open a smaller door on the top to slide the camera out when the pod is slotted vertically, nestled among your gear (see above). If you aren’t using a dedicated camera backpacking backpack — like Moment’s Strohl Mountain Light pack — this can be a great solution for the trail-trotting creative.

Camera cubes can also be used to add more gear storage to camera backpacks. Often times, the included camera compartment of camera backpacks just isn’t enough, and cubes can be added to personal gear sections of the pack to safely store additional sensitive gear.

Accessibility

This is perhaps the most important feature that we sniff out when analyzing a camera backpack’s worth, and each pack seems to have its own unique way of allowing you to quickly snag your gear. Manufacturers of these packs face the difficult challenge of crafting a design that keeps fragile glass safe, while still allowing you to swiftly rip the pack off your back, and easily access your camera the moment that perfect shot materializes.

Multidirectional zippers, various access points, and strategically placed Velcro dividers all aid in this complex process. Perhaps our favorite accessibility layout can be found in PD’s Everyday Zip 20L . The pack features top and dual side access via a single 270-degree wrap-around zipper, with four different zippers to open whichever compartment of the pack you need.

Handles on each side of the pack allow you to rip it around with ease to quickly access each segment, and the rotating shoulder straps let you drop the pack onto one shoulder and rip it open without plopping it on the ground.

Not all packs have this level of complicated tech — nor would you necessarily need it. It’s important to determine how complicated or simple you want your back to be, which largely depends on the type of shoots you plan to be involved in.

Some photographers need quick access to their camera backpacks while others use them purely for transportation. Knowing whether you need to easily access your camera while on the move is another important step in choosing the right backpack.

There are packs with top and side access, as well as loops on the straps to add camera clips. One of the best features of well-designed camera packs is a side door entry that folds open, so you can reach in and grab your camera, even with your pack still on.

Usually that zipper extends further to the other side of the pack, too, so you can get a full bird’s-eye view of your equipment (while stopped with the pack lying flat on the ground). A clamshell opening is also a solid design, so that the bag’s exterior completely opens up for visibility on all of the gear.

Another consideration is where the camera compartment is located in the pack. The zipper could be closer to the back, near the front, or down along the sides. Some like their gear uber secure, leading to more difficult access but added protection, while others prefer to be able to get to their camera from the back or outer zipper. Accessibility really depends on your primary focus for your gear.

Tripod-Holder

Every good camera backpack will have a tripod holder. If the bag you’re considering has one, it’s usually located on the exterior of the pack. Many packs use a pocket that usually acts as a bottle holder to support the bottom of the tripod, with a strap near the top of the pack to secure it.

Most standard camera bags will come in around 20-30 L. This is plenty of room for camera gear, a laptop or tablet, and other essentials.

If you go out on longer multiday trips, opt for a larger pack — 50 to 60 L might be a good size. And find a padded camera cube so you can pack your camera and lenses safely in the pack if you don’t plan on getting one with integrated camera storage.

As far as pack   durability  goes, double-stitched straps and high-denier (thicker) materials will help your bag withstand standard wear and tear. For keeping your gear safe, the more padded the backpack, the safer your equipment will be.

Also, the more snug the compartment design is, the better. Extra space leaves room for gear to jostle around whether you’re running through the airport, riding your cruiser to the park, or steering a dirt bike to an overlook for sunset.

Look for a pack that has padding that surrounds the main compartment, not just on the separators. If you tend to be extra hard on your gear, some bags have hardshell liners for extra impact protection.

Waterproofing /Weather-Resistance

It’s important to know the difference between waterproofing, water-resistant, and how long these materials last. If you want to be prepared for any weather, definitely look for a backpack that is waterproof with waterproof zippers.

Water-resistant bags are great for minor exposure to liquids and in between throwing on an additional rain cover or rain jacket . They will eventually become saturated if there is substantial water so be sure to consider a game plan if you’re out and about during rainy or snowy seasons. In any case, you can always plan to move your camera backpack underneath a rain jacket for coverage on the move.

If you   tend to shoot   in rainy weather, look for a pack that comes with a rain fly. Many packs stash these in a small pocket on the exterior for quick deployment.

Be wary of packs that are advertised as waterproof. Even if the bag’s material is waterproof, the zippers usually aren’t. So, while a waterproof exterior may repel rain, humidity, mist, or splash action from the bottom of the canoe, there’s a chance that it can seep in through the zippers and get your camera wet.

Camera backpacks can get heavy fast. If you’re planning to pack multiple cameras, lenses, and accessories along with your laptop, it’s important to consider how much weight is bearable for your body and find a backpack that distributes weight evenly.

Many backpacks include chest and hip straps. Really great packs add padding to all the straps with adjustments to fit your body. Look out for these features and consider spending a little extra if you’re someone who often carries heavy gear.

Another thing to consider is how heavy the backpack is before you put your gear in. It’s a hard balance as extra comfort and padding usually lead to more weight while ultralight gear can be flimsy and less likely to distribute weight evenly. There are packs that do a great job of balancing both comfort and protection with good padding and weight distribution to help offset the discomfort.

Shoulder Pads & Hip Belts

Some camera packs put these two important comfort qualities on the back burner, which is a bummer because a loaded pack of electronics is a fair load to carry around! Ideally, the shoulder pads are breathable, ergonomic, and well-cushioned.

Likewise, the back panel should have cushion, support, and hopefully breathability through a mesh material and airway channels between the pads.

Hip belts that are constructed of a simple strap will help secure the load from swinging around but will not support the load off the shoulders and upper back. They are also not the coziest to snap on.

Cushioned hip belts help to protect the hips from rubbing and carry a portion of the pack weight, relieving the upper back; plus, they are generally more comfortable. For folks with back or neck pain or injuries, be sure to look for adequate pads in your camera pack.

Expect to pay more for your camera backpack than you would any other pack, as the materials and construction entail added costs. It’s important to consider how much your gear costs, countered with how much you are able and willing to pay to safely travel with all you need for your next gig. As mentioned, your camera backpack has extra padding, increased pockets, and enclosures, as well as varying levels of waterproofing to protect your gear.

Whether for personal or professional use, be prepared to spend a little extra on a good backpack. Prices can range anywhere from $80 – $400 depending on size and value. Because there are so many options and price tags out there, we’ve dug deep to find camera backpacks that match their value with the price, and included a whole range of them in this guide.

Categories of Camera Backpacks

Different camera backpacks serve different creatives’ needs. Whether you gravitate to simple day or wedding shoots, or frequently find yourself filming technical expeditions lasting for months, there’s a pack out there with your name on it. We’ve broken down some of our favorite camera backpacks into three main categories. Most of these packs are featured above, while some we have reviewed in previous years.

• Hex Backloader V2
• Nomad Mickinnon 35L
• Lowepro PhotoSport X
• Lowepro PhotoSport PRO III
• AtlasPacks Athlete Camera Backpack

Protection, organization, weight, access, gear fit, and comfort are the key components of good camera bags. Look for a bag with a padded interior, plenty of internal and external pockets for keeping your small, easy-to-lose accessories handy, and a well-designed harness system that distributes the pack weight well.

Look for a pack that allows you to grab the camera on the fly thanks to a seamless side entry point.

Every camera bag has a padded compartment that’s designed to keep your camera safe from bumps and scratches. The best way for you to keep your camera safe in your pack is to pack it correctly.

Also, know that your average camera pack is not bombproof. Use common sense with your bag: Avoid throwing your bag around, sitting on it, or piling other bags on top of it, and your camera should be safe.

While camera backpacks are built with durable, often water-resistant material, note that zippers are not typically waterproof. Be aware that moisture, humidity, splashes, setting it in puddles, traveling through pouring rain or snow, or a spilled water bottle have the potential to reach your equipment.

Pay attention to your surroundings when you travel, too. If you’re overseas or in a crowded bus or train station or at an airport, consider using a lock on your pack. Not all camera pack zippers are compatible with TSA locks.

The TSA allows bags with cameras, tripods, and lenses if they fit in the overhead bin or under your seat. Drones are allowed through checkpoints. But individual airlines’ rules may vary. Check with your specific airline to see if your drone is allowed in your carry-on.

Short answer: no. If you feel like risking it, you can keep your camera in a regular bag. But the likelihood that your camera will be damaged is increased. And if you’re attached to your bag, you can always buy a padded camera cube, put your camera in it, and then place it in the bag.

That said, a camera bag will not only be safer for your camera but will also keep all your peripherals organized, allowing you to access everything you need when you need it.

Like a painter or graphic artist, every photographer is slightly unique with their technique, tools, and how they carry and operate their gear outside or indoors on a film mission. Generally, a few things that pros will carry include multiple memory cards, batteries, a lens wipe, a tripod, plus, of course, their camera and a couple of lenses tailored to the shots that they have in mind for that destination.

Sometimes they’ll also bring an extra camera, reflector, or light meter, but it really depends on how quick, fast, and lightweight they need to travel and what their objective or contracted project entails.

Just like any other piece of gear, it’s important to provide routine TLC to your bag. Clean the exterior and interior according to the product tag, and reapply water repellent too. Make sure the zippers are well-lubricated and clean.

Repair and patch any tears or deep scratches. Also, be sure to air out the interior pockets and camera cubes, as storing your equipment in a dry, clean space is important.

The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

Head into the backcountry with the best backpacking backpacks of 2024. From budget-friendly options to ultra-comfortable picks, we’ve got you covered.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

Kendra Smith is a contributing writer and editorial photographer based in Bentonville, Arkansas. She has a multi-disciplinary background in photography, cultural anthropology, and communicative arts. When she’s not behind the camera, Smith is outdoors, cooking, gardening, traveling the world, or back home with her pups. You can follow her @kendrasmith

Based in beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee, Chris Carter is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie, while squeezing in side gigs as an adventure filmmaker and content creator in the outdoor industry. Drawing from his childhood in Africa, experience as a rock climbing and backpacking guide, ultra-marathon running, and years of extensive thru-hiking, he’s passionate about journalism that gets people into the wild. He has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in America: the Pacific Crest Trail (2018), the Continental Divide Trail (2021), and the Appalachian Trail (2021), and has explored, rock-climbed, and backpacked all over the world. He hopes to spread his love of adventure and travel through his writing, art, and videography.

Based among the awe-inspiring peaks of Crested Butte, Colorado, Morgan Tilton is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie honing the SnowSports Buyer’s Guides alongside warmer coverage. More broadly, she’s an adventure journalist specializing in outdoor industry news and adventure travel stories, which she’s produced for more than a decade and more than 80 publications to date. A recipient of 14 North American Travel Journalists Association awards, when she’s not recovering from high alpine or jungle expeditions she’s usually trail running, mountain biking, or splitboarding in Southwest Colorado, where she grew up and lives today. From resort to backcountry and human-powered to motorized travel, she loves sliding across snow.

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Home » Gear » The Best Camera Travel Backpack for 2024

The Best Camera Travel Backpack for 2024

It’s true what they say – you don’t need thousands of dollars in equipment to grab great photos. You just need a camera, a backpack and a bit too much time on your hands! You know what’s also true? No camera will help you nail the shot after it gets too close to baggage claim, gets caught in a shower, or falls off the back of a rigged-up motorcycle. 

While no backpack on earth stops me from being such a clutz, some bags can meet me in the middle, providing the foam cushioning, waterproofing, and storage space I need to chase my dreams without smashing my lenses … again!

Okay, great, you might think. So point me to that backpack, and I’ll be on my way… Woah, there, cowboy. Hold your damn horses!

What do you mean by “that” backpack? At any given time on earth, there are anywhere from 15 to 50 backpacks that at least one barefooted hooligan is swearing by as the best invention on earth.

But here’s what a good photographer knows – there’s no such thing as the perfect shot, and there’s no such thing as the perfect camera backpack. What there are, are tons of crap options, several bags that are just okay, and a few top-tier bags that put in the extra miles.

Which one will work for you? Well, that’s up to you. I can only lead you to the water, compadre. I can’t tell you whether you should be drinking Sprite or 7-Up. That’s for you to decide. And I’m here to help you make that decision.

The Best Camera Backpack For Travel

 what to look for in a camera travel backpack, the best camera travel backpacks – epic run down, final thoughts on the best camera backpack for travel, overall best camera travel backpack – wandrd all new prvke, best camera travel pack for daytrips – boundary supply prima system, best tech camera travel backpack – hex back loader dslr camera bag, best carry on camera travel backpack – peak design everyday pack 30l, best hybrid camera backpack for travel – monarc settra duffel backpack, runner up best camera travel backpack – nomatic mckinnon, best travel backpack for camera – osprey porter 46.

WANDRD All New Prvke

• Dims (CM) > 48 x 28 x 17
• Weight (KG) > 2.8
• Capacity (L) > 25

Boundary Supply Prima System

• Dims (CM) > 53 x 30 x 18
• Weight (KG) > 1.88
• Capacity (L) > 30

HEX Back Loader DSLR Camera Bag

• Dims (CM) > 45 x 30 x 13
• Weight (KG) > 1
• Capacity (L) > 20

Peak Design Everyday Pack 30L

• Dims (CM) > 51 x 32 x 20
• Weight (KG) > 1.54

Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack

• Dims (CM) > 61 x 33 x 28
• Weight (KG) > 2
• Capacity (L) > 40

Nomatic McKinnon

• Dims (CM) > 56 x 34 x 23
• Weight (KG) > 2.5
• Capacity (L) > 35

Osprey Porter 46

• Dims (CM) > 46 x 40 x 31
• Weight (KG) > 1.36
• Capacity (L) > 46

The first thing I like to look for in a camera travel backpack is how it will store my camera. That might sound obvious to you because it is, but it’s ultra important. Without dedicated camera storage, it’s just a plain old backpack!

Having cushioned dividers, easy access, accessory-specific pockets, and spaces that protect your lenses make a camera backpack different from the hordes of other everyday travel backpacks out there.

The other primary consideration is where you want your backpack to take you—the bags on our list range from 100 Liter pack-alls to 15 Liter specialists. Let your dream itineraries guide your purchase. For example, you might want a hiking-specific camera bag if you’re doing a lot of backcountry expeditions.

Once you have those considerations down, you can relax a bit. After the camera-specific features, you should look for the same things in a camera bag that you would find in any standard backpack: high-quality, durable, waterproof, and sustainable materials. Space, durability, and comfort are the holy trinity of bag shopping. 

Choosing the best from such a colossal range wasn’t easy. It was like picking my favorite gelato flavor in Italy – a tough job, but I tackled it with my head held high. We looked at everything: comfort, durability, style, and, most importantly, whether it can protect your gear and, even more importantly, how much camera gear it can carry. 

With those details in mind, we selected our favorites and took off on foot, taking these camera backpacks through the foothills of the Himalayas and the beaches of Peru, getting a shit ton of pictures at all sorts of beautiful places in between.

Here are the results of our search. 

• Dims (CM) – 48 x 28 x 17
• Weight (KG) – 2.8
• Capacity (L) – 25
• Price ($) – 245

WANDRD is like the Chick-fil-A of camera equipment. They may not have invented the camera bag, but they have definitely perfected it. And the All-New PRVKE is their spicy chicken sandwich, here to take a classic company into a new era. 

This camera bag is so impressive that folks who would never travel with spare lenses are still scooping up the PRVKE as a one-bag travel extraordinaire. The plethora of pockets and organizers do a great job keeping everything organised, whether you’re traveling with camera equipment or a whole lot of multicolored marbles… or both!

If I had to select something to nitpick, I would probably question how necessary all these packing options really are. Loads of flaps and dividers keep all your equipment where it needs to be, which adds valuable ounces to this pack’s overall weight. Scatterbrained travelers who like black holes might look elsewhere. Having said that, it’s entirely possible to pull them all out if you feel that way inclined. For an actual organizer, every one of these wild perks is worth the bulky build of the WANDRD PRVKE . You’ll have quick yet protected access to cameras, batteries, laptops, and snack bars, all wrapped up in a water-resistant exterior that’s as sleek as it gets. 

• New PRVKE includes better pocket access
• Updated Hidden passport pocket gets bigger and harder to find
• Cushy back padding keeps you marching towards the shot
• To get the most out of this bag you might need to buy add-on accessory packs
• Base backpack is expensive on its own
• This backpack doesn’t feel at home in the backwoods

• Dims (CM) – 53 x 30 x 18
• Weight (KG) – 1.88
• Capacity (L) – 30
• Price ($) – 239

Boundary might not have the Kickstarter darling pedigree of a WANDRD, or the proven history of a LowePro, but what they do have is panache. This quirky group of CrossFitters has dreamt up a modular backpack system that brings customization options we’ve never seen in the camera bag field. 

Like sorting through lenses and filters, Boundry’s Arris, Errant, Prima, Rennen, and Universal systems will each have you looking at your backpack in a whole different light. Depending on the day’s shoot, you can invest in a few sets and head out the door with a unique camera backpack system. 

My personal favorite is the Boundary Prima System , which comes with individualized protection for your camera, laptop, and a big area to store everything else. Carry your camera to the summit with the detachable hip belt then whip your laptop out once you get to base camp and get editing your snaps pronto!

Prima is Boundaries’ best all-day option, capping out at 30 LIters of ultra-refined storage. There are pockets for everything, all within easy access. And it’s all protected by eco-friendly ballistic nylon with DWR coatings.  Its versatility makes it a great everyday carry backpack , especially for photographers.

• Unique opening makes it easy to pull your camera out safely
• The full Prima System is practically three bags in one
• An affordable upgrade brings you X-Pac waterproofing
• Lots of additional accessories to consider
• The bag feels very bulky with all attachments hooked up
• Not a whole lot of use cases outside of hardcore photography

• Dims (CM) – 45 x 30 x 13
• Weight (KG) – 1
• Capacity (L) – 20
• Price ($) – 199

The HEX Back Loader DSLR is a bonafide camera backpack that looks like a casual bag. It’s a great choice for photographers who don’t want everyone to take one look at them and know they’ve got $2,000 worth of equipment in their bag. 

While the HEX BackLoader is no slouch, it’s got a camouflage pattern that literally and metaphorically disguises what’s inside. HEX makes great use of every available space, even packing the lid of the full clamshell opening to the brim with mesh zippered pockets. A maze of EVA foam separators in the main compartment keeps your lenses away from your loose change on bumpy roads.

In addition to great storage for your camera equipment, the water-resistant bag boasts a 15” laptop compartment, water bottle holders, and a well-thought-out top pocket. My favorite part about this camera backpack is that all accessories are included in the purchase. One buy will get all the gear, no hidden add-ons!

All these features make this camera bag our favorite for navigating the urban jungle. It’s not too flashy, it’s comfortable as hell, and all your camera equipment is within easy access – but only to you, not to wandering hands. 

• Great easy access to camera and backpacks
• Powerhouse camera bag that doesn’t look like it from the outside
• EVA foam protects from surprise drops
• The backpack only comes with camo patterns
• Only one external attachment point
• Not a unisex backpack

Best Carry-on Camera Travel Backpack – Peak Design Everyday Pack 30L

• Dims (CM) – 51 x 32 x 20
• Weight (KG) – 1.54
• Price ($) – 279

With two amazing side pockets in addition to a cavernous main compartment, this pack somehow simultaneously slims down and stretches out your storage. You can decide between a 20L or 30L model, both great choices, although 20 Liters isn’t always enough to bring all the gear I usually need.  

For this review, we got our hands all over the 30 Liter addition, and the sheer number of perks + storage options had us rethinking how many liters we actually needed. I’ve always believed that 35 Liters is the bare minimum for a weekend trip backpack , especially when I’m packing the DSLR. However, the unique storage offered by this bag makes it work. 

Because of the sidewalls, you can pack your laptop, clothes, and food in the main compartment and keep your cameras separate. While this doesn’t magically create more storage space, it does compartmentalize things to an insane degree and make it super easy to get to your zoom lens while birdwatching and your sandwich once you need a snack!

The V2 update brought these backpacks into the 2020s with improved non-slip pockets, easier access, and more volume in key pockets to make their everyday backpack even more versatile. Oh, and I almost forgot to mention – it’s all protected by a 400 Denier waterproof shell. 

If you’re looking for something a little larger, then check out the 45l Peak Design Travel Backpack .

• Directly from the Peak Design website, you can save big on used models
• Magnetic locking mechanisms keep everything where it’s supposed to be
• Great waterproofing
• Everyday backpacks are usually much cheaper than this
• Would rather have a 30 and 40 Liter option than 20 and 30
• The bag can feel big and bulky on smaller frames

• Dims (CM) – 61 x 33 x 28
• Weight (KG) – 2
• Capacity (L) – 40
• Price ($) – 200

This tough hauler will carry your equipment on the backs of recycled plastic bottles. The Monarc Settra , on its own, is a recycled powerhouse, but if you pair it up with the complete bundle, you’ll get a camera cube, tech pack, and more. That bundle can be purchased for $200 this holiday season, elevating this pack into the upper echelon of camera bags. 

You can carry your load backpack style or rely on the durable strap system to swing things around on one hand. The pack has some work to do to fit as a backpack, especially when packed full, but it’ll be fine to carry on your shoulders from the airplane to the taxi stand. Comfort isn’t the first consideration of this pack; it’s all about sustainable excellence.  

There’s nothing sweeter than recycled materials with incredible specs. The Monarc Settra is water-resistant and ultra-rugged, capable of bouncing off Tuk-Tuk roofs and keeping everything ready to shoot. The Settra duffel backpack takes 50 bottles, and upgrading to the entire bundle takes another 50 bottles out of the ocean and into the mix. 

This duffel bag is one of the largest camera travel backpack options that can confidently fit into the overhead compartment of most airplanes, making it a perfect bag for bigger packing if you’re looking for a great carry-on bag . You want to bring all of your toys with you, but never want to risk your drone to gate check and anxiously await the damage at baggage claim. 

• High tech features, recycled materials
• Largest possible camera backpack that still works as a carry-on
• Baseline duffel bag includes a lot of cool features
• When fully packed, you won’t want to carry this backpack style
• Lots of additional accessories are necessary to make this a great camera bag
• Not a good bag for the backcountry

• Dims (CM) – 56 x 34 x 23
• Weight (KG) – 2.5
• Capacity (L) – 35
• Price ($) – 400

As a passionate photographer with a wallet that’s seen better days, I’m always skeptical of super-expensive backpacks. I want to save my money for a new Canon 35 mm instead! But I’ll let you in on something I learned the hard way: if you’ve got expensive equipment, you’ve got to use expensive equipment to protect it. 

No backpack on the planet is more optimized for camera equipment than the Nomatic McKinnon, designed in tandem between one of the best modern backpack makers in the country and professional photographer Peter McKinnon. If you want a camera backpack, you should buy one born from the mind of a true professional. 

Nomatic took McKinnon’s vision and ran with it, churning out a backpack fine-tuned for photography at every corner. The best part is, that you don’t need to buy any additional accessories to harness the full power of this potent pack. On day one, this bag hits your doorstep with space for multiple camera bodies, lenses, and everything you need for a mobile studio. 

You can tell McKinnon takes photography seriously because he did not consider weight when designing this backpack. It’s counter-intuitive for many full-time travelers to buy something so heavy, but the protection and durability you get in return for a bit of extra weight makes the bag worth it. It’s certainly one of the best backpacks in the Nomatic line-up .

• Can be expanded up to 7 liters
• Incredibly customizable storage potential
• Build should last for life
• 6 pounds without any gear
• It costs 400 bucks (but it’s currently on sale for 299!)
• Not as waterproof as you might expect from such a high tech backpack

• Dims (CM) – 46 x 40 x 31
• Weight (KG) – 1.36
• Capacity (L) – 46
• Price ($) – 228

Hiring a personal porter to accompany you on every shoot might not be in the budget this year, but this all-encompassing backpack is the next best thing. The Osprey Porter 46 is an incredibly versatile, modern backpack duffel bag combo built by the brand that’s been sitting on top of the backpack business for decades. 

Originally known for backpacking bags, Osprey has stepped well out of the woods for this one. The hybrid bag leaves the ice pick attachments and intense exterior mesh at home in favor of pure gear-hauling comfort.  While it might be less technically advanced than others made by the brand, that doesn’t mean Osprey skimped out on the materials. 

The Bluesign, sustainably sourced materials that make up this powerhouse pack are as durable and conscious as anything else in the business. Plus, Every buckle and strap is protected through Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee, which promises this will be the last camera bag you ever need to buy. 

Those great materials combine well with Osprey’s incredible AirScape back panel, which comes in handy when the Porter is fully loaded. The clamshell-style opening and straightjacket-style compression straps will fill everything you need for a week-long trip without wasting an inch. 

• Duffel-backpack hybrid that carries comfortably both ways
• Great weight for such a robust backpack
• Compression straps help you sneak it on as a carry-on
• Distinct lack of organization options that you might expect from a camera bag
• Included hip belt feels a bit flimsy for such a robust pack
• Could use a few more exterior pockets

Best of the Rest – More Camera Travel Packs

Tropicfeel – shell backpack.

• Dims (CM) – 51 x 30 x 19
• Weight (KG) – 1.5
• Capacity (L) – 20-42
• Price ($) – 250

The TropicFeel Shell Backpack is actually a series of modular attachments that lets you customize your equipment to a staggering level. The bag can grow and shrink, changing in size by over 20 liters of storage. It becomes a legendary camera bag portable closet combination when combined with the additional camera cube.

The TopicFeel Wardrobe is the system’s highlight. This three-way expansion pack slips right into your backpack and unfurls quickly, allowing you to build a makeshift closet on any hangable objects in your hostel room. You could also use this wardrobe for your camera gear, splitting your equipment into three parts and hanging it next to your desk. 

I love shoving this bag full on travel days and slowly dismantling my Shell as I get comfortable in a new space. Once my toiletry kit is in the bathroom, my wardrobe is hung up, and I’m leaving the house with nothing else but the FidLock pouch, I know I’ve properly set up shop and am getting into the thick of things.

TropicFeel makes a backpack for people who want to travel and bring their routine with them. Sometimes grabbing great shots is all about getting into the unknown as much as it is getting into the rhythm of things. This camera bag is your best choice for turning traveling into a finely tuned system. 

• An well-organized packer’s best friend
• Made from recycled materials
• The bag can go from 42 liters to 20 liters depending on what you need that day
• Baseline bag is nothing special without the additional accessories
• Depending on how efficient you are, the wardrobe system could be replaced by simple packing cubes
• All those extra features add on some extra weight

Stubble & Co – Adventure Pack

• Dims (CM) – 55 x 38 x 24
• Weight (KG) – 1.7
• Capacity (L) – 42
• Price ($) – 275

The Adventure Pack from Stubble & Co is the most technologically advanced backpack from a fashion-forward brand, which is almost always a winning combination. This backpack looks as good as it packs, wrapping up your gear in your choice of two-toned color schemes that protect as well as anybody. 

Unlike the other bags in the Stubble and Co line, the adventure bag is custom-built to get dirty. Its recycled PET, and reinforced seams show that this bag is hyperfocused on creating a waterproof shell for your precious cargo. If this backpack were just a touch more camera-friendly, it would instantly skyrocket to the top of our list. 

For now, you’ll have to get a bit creative when it’s time to store your camera. Still, while there might not be a camera-specific pocket, there are tons of great places for your gear, and the full clamshell opening will help you get the full picture. 

• Great water resistance across the whole pack
• Two side straps are a great spot for tripods or oversized equipment
• Easy access laptop compartment
• Not built specifically for use with cameras
• A bit too big for daily use
• Lacks easy access or exterior pockets big enough for camera equipment

WANDRD – Rogue Sling

• Dims (CM) – 30 x 19 x 15
• Weight (KG) – .68
• Capacity (L) – 6
• Price ($) – 124

Just like every crew needs a best boy, every camera bag set-up needs a nice fanny pack ! WANDRD, no stranger to high-tech gear, took their expertise down a few sizes to produce a sling pack capable of a full day’s butt-kicking. 

With loads of external attachment points, you can strap everything from a GoPro to a full-sized laptop. The sling is designed to hook up with WANDRD’s laptop case and do something no 6-liter bag has done before: carry a laptop. You can strap up and set off with a camera, computer, tripod, and more, all hoisted over one shoulder. 

And we haven’t even gotten to all the benefits inside this bag. An accordion-style organization system brings freedom to pack your sling how you’d like it. Stow your SD cards against the back, slip the keys to the catch-all accessory up front, and deploy two shelf-like dividers to keep your camera from rolling around. 

It won’t come cheap, but the Rogue Sling might be the most feature-rich sling pack on the market. It’s worth every single penny. Pick between a 9,6, or 3-liter waterproof sling bag and keep all your essentials right where you need them. 

• External attachments for a laptop and a tripod
• Everything inside the pack is protected by waterproof materials
• Three carrying handles makes sure your camera never hits an awkward angle
• Two interior shelf dividers take up lots of space in a slim bag
• Laptop sleeve does not fit inside the sling pack, it’s exposed to the elements
• 100$ is a lot to pay for a sling bag

Peak Design – Travel Pack 45L

• Dims (CM) – 56 x 33 x 24
• Capacity (L) – 45
• Price ($) – 299

Peak Designs makes some of the greatest traveling camera equipment out there. They know as well as anybody that all the fancy camera gear in the world is useless if you don’t have a great way to carry it to your destination. The Travel Backpack is their solution: A do-it-all travel bag that fits any scenario. 

It’s not just a camera bag, it’s one of the greatest one-bag travel options out there. The shape-shifting bag and quality compression straps make it capable of expanding to 45 liters and compressing down to fit in the overhead compartment, guaranteeing you can take everything you need for the photo shoot without putting anything under the plane. 

Whether you’re a digital nomad or Scuba Steve, there are plenty of great reasons to make use of this bag. The cavernous opening will allow you to pack it up like a suitcase and dual side access points allow you to find your portable charger without digging through your underwear drawer. 

Protecting it all is a recycled nylon canvas with reinforcements on the bag’s bottom for rough roads. Pair it up with Peak Design’s camera cube system, and you have a fully mobile studio with enough extra space to pack some light reading. 

• Fair trade certified and 100% carbon neutral backpack
• Magnetic stowaways for harness system to stay out of the way when not in use
• Dual side panels bring easy access to all the important things
• Need to buy an extra camera cube to make it truly a camera travel backpack
• Could use more dividers in the main compartment
• Laptop Compartment on backside of the lid isn’t my favorite use of space

WANDRD – PRVKE Lite

• Dims (CM) – 40 x 28 x 14
• Capacity (L) – 15
• Price ($) – 213

Not every trip needs the big guns. Sometimes, you want to get in and out with just the essentials and without stopping at baggage claim. For daily use or light traveling, you can’t beat the PRVKE Lite , which takes all the features of WANDRD’s flagship camera bag and shrinks them down a few sizes.

All of WANDRD’s bags intend to bring professional feature sets into an affordable price range, and no backpack accomplishes this better than this light option. Somewhat nonsensically, this small version is slightly more expensive than bigger PRVKE models.

Its price point makes more sense once you realize that this bag brings the entire feature set into a size perfect for daily use, which is an incredibly valuable size range, but still, when I saw the words “Lite” I expected a discount. So I was skeptical, but stoked, especially once I got my hands on the roll-top closure that proves there’s more to this mini bag than meets the eye. 

The PRVKE Lite has daily driver written all over it, just as capable when packing a full-sized camera as when leaving the heavy equipment at home. The bag’s plush camera stowaway is entirely removable, freeing up valuable centimeters of packing space and ensuring you never have to leave this backpack at home. 

• Great easy access to your camera equipment
• Camera cube is included with purchase of the backpack
• Quality weather resistance
• 15 Liters is nothing more than a commuting bag or personal item
• Just as expensive as the 31 liter PRVKE
• No hidden passport pocket

Lowepro –  Flipside Camera Backpack

• Dims (CM) – 48 x 33 x 24
• Price ($) – 219

Lowepro makes camera backpacks for professionals. These highly specific backpacks would make no sense for most travelers, namely those who fly without a camera, a GoPro, and a drone, but if you can’t imagine leaving anything at home, this might be the backpack for you. 

The interior of the Flipside has more separate drawers than most college dorm rooms—from tiny padded corners to long, thin dividers for zoom lenses and everything in between. There’s just one thing these dividers don’t have a great place for, clothes. The bag’s entire space is too optimized for sweatshirts. 

Consider the Flipside an accessory: you’ll never travel with just this backpack, and it might not even be the best choice for a day-to-day backpack. Instead, it will provide a permanent space for all your equipment and ensure you have spare batteries, SD cards, lenses, and tripods on standby. 

• Fully impervious rain cover deploys and keeps your gear dry through a downpour
• Features backside access to get to your camera quickly
• The U-shaped lid is full of laptop, tablet, and cord storage
• 20 Liters plus all those dividers hardly leaves space for much clothing
• Too specialized to work well as a daily bag
• Could use an easy access exterior stash pocket

AER – Travel Pack 3

• Dims (CM) – 54 x 33 x 21
• Weight (KG) – 1.86
• Price ($) – 249

We’ll finish up our round-up of the best camera travel backpacks with this photography-friendly option built for minimalists. This backpack was originally aimed to please the carry-on crowd, but its use cases don’t stop there. If you’re looking for a daily bag that will pack everything you need for work, plus the space to bring a change of clothes to the gym afterwards, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is the one.

Leave a few things behind, and you could get six months of rough and tumble backpacking out of this beast – DSLR camera included. The monotone black bag disguises a vast ecosystem on the interior, full of compartments, mesh, front storage, and hidden passport pockets. Pack it how you like and yank on the compression straps to compact things as small as possible. 

Once packed full, a lot of backpacks can feel unwieldy. AER takes care of that with clutch carry handles and a relative lack of dangling bits and pieces to help you stay on top of a heavy load. Those hefty straps, 1680D Cordura Ballistic Nylon, and YKK zipper all add up to a military-grade backpack that feels technically advanced without drawing unnecessary attention. 

A bag this tech-savvy, with materials this durable, often can’t escape looking a bit geeky, or at least flashing big dollar signs to everyone else waiting at the bus station. But not this one, which would fit anywhere from Middle School to middle management. Only true gearheads will take a look at this pack and realize the beauty going on inside. 

• You’ll keep finding covert pockets for months after your purchase
• Storage split across three separate main compartments
• Tough as nails
• I would love a 40 L model
• Hip belt and rain cover sold separately
• Compression straps don’t do enough to lighten this bag when it’s not full of gear

Take a picture, it lasts longer! There’s nothing else to say about the world’s best camera backpacks except to acknowledge the price tag in the room. We’re a collective of Broke Backpackers, but we’re not stupid.

You can probably hitchhike your way through the South Island of New Zealand with smelly socks stored in a cheap backpack, but when it comes to camera equipment, you get what you pay for. That goes double for storage options. 

Pick out the best genre of bag for your shooting style and then buy whichever one protects your camera the best. Waterproofing, shock resistance, 1,000 Denier nylon, whatever you can get your hands on will pay off one day. 

Should you get caught out on a nasty day (and trust me, if you go hunting for pictures long enough, you will), you’ll be saving thousands of dollars by protecting your valuable camera with the best camera backpack.  

Aiden Freeborn

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The 10 Best Travel Photography Backpacks in 2024

A Post By: Jeremy Flint

When doing travel photography , one of the most important things to consider is your backpack. You have hundreds of options – but unfortunately, not all backpacks are adequately sturdy, comfortable, spacious, and cost-effective.

That’s where this article comes in handy. I share the best travel photography backpacks you can buy in 2024, so whether you’re a newbie looking for your first travel photo backpack or a more serious photographer in search of a high-quality backpack to take on lengthy trips, this article is guaranteed to help you out.

Let’s get started.

How to choose a travel photography backpack

A travel photography backpack is ultimately your best companion, and it should be designed to serve a range of needs; after all, you may require a bag for long countryside walks, hiking in the hills, air travel, or even city breaks and rural adventures.

As you’ll probably carry your backpack at all times throughout your travels, you’ll want a product that feels comfortable, is highly practical, and (if style is important to you) looks great. Your camera equipment should be easy to access, and the zippers should be well-placed. A suitable bag will be able to store and protect your camera gear successfully in all weather, so you should definitely consider the durability and strength of the material as well as any rain-protection measures.

The bag’s size is important, too. You may require a large pack with extra space and compartments for your photography accessories and other items (e.g., clothing, food, storage drives, laptops). Or you may prefer a more compact, lightweight bag. If you frequently take (or wish to take) a travel tripod on your trips, it’s important you get a backpack that can carry one.

Below, I help you choose from the diverse selection of backpacks currently on the market while highlighting their unique features. Let’s start by taking a look at the best travel photography backpack you can find:

1. LowePro Tahoe BP 150 Backpack

My first travel photography backpack pick is the LowePro Tahoe BP 150, a lightweight option with an adaptable and well-padded main interior. Thanks to the smaller build, it’s ideal for traveling by car or plane, and the reasonable price makes it a favorite of beginners and hobbyists.

Designed with strong and moisture-resistant fabrics, this backpack will keep your gear safe in all types of weather and is perfect for outdoor travel shoots. It has the capacity to store a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a zoom lens attached in addition to a second lens and even a flash. Extra room is provided for personal items (such as a 10-inch tablet), and the side pockets offer space to store a water bottle and some camera-cleaning gear.

2. LowePro ProTactic BP 350 AW II Backpack

Due to its impressive performance and versatility, the LowePro ProTactic BP 350 AW II Backpack is one of the best travel photography backpacks money can buy.

It costs significantly more than the LowePro Tahoe (above), yet it’s also far more spacious, making it a better choice for serious photographers. The LowePro ProTactic offers enough room to carry a pro mirrorless camera or DSLR, extra lenses, and even a drone. It has multiple access points to your gear, has an adaptable interior you can tailor to fit your equipment, and can hold a 13-inch laptop.

And you get a handful of useful additional features, including an all-weather cover to protect your gear, an all-purpose utility pouch, a bottle pouch, and a tripod cup (so you can carry a tripod without difficulty).

3. Manfrotto Pro Light RedBee-310 Backpack

The Manfrotto Pro Light RedBee-310 Backpack doesn’t come cheap, but the larger capacity, rugged build, and stylish exterior make it worth every penny.

The RedBee-310 offers a spacious interior – you can store a handful of lenses in addition to a sizable DSLR or two – yet it’s still suitable for airline carry-on luggage. The backpack also includes handy dividers, easy rear access to your equipment, and a 15-inch laptop sleeve.

The backpack looks very stylish and is ideal for serious photographers, though it may be overkill for hobbyists just hoping to travel with a camera and a couple of lenses.

4. F-stop Loka 37 L Ultra-Light Travel Camera Backpack

F-stop makes some of the best travel photography backpacks around; although they’re more expensive than competitor products, the bags are high quality and designed to last. They’re made to fit, comfortable to carry, and are my backpack of choice as a professional travel photographer embarking on adventures.

The Loka Ultra-Light Travel Camera Backpack isn’t huge, but it offers space for a camera, a few lenses, and key accessories. It’s also incredibly comfortable, and fitted inserts can be bought as a bundle with the bag and adapted to suit your needs.

If your goal is to keep your camera as protected as possible while traveling around the globe, this F-stop backpack is reliable and incredibly durable.

5. Peak Design Everyday Backpack (20 L)

These days, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is much loved in the photography community; for one, it looks amazing, though not so much in the standard “camera backpack” sense and more in the designer-clothing vein. It also feels great, thanks to plenty of internal support, adjustable shoulder straps, and a comfortable hip belt.

As the name suggests, this backpack is suitable for everyday use, from city breaks to rural escapes. It also fits as carry-on luggage, making it perfect for plane travel. Made with durable (and weatherproof) outer fabric, the Everyday Backpack will protect your gear in snow, rain, and sleet, and it’ll also prevent damage from the standard bumps and knocks.

The easy-to-configure internal FlexFold dividers make it incredibly easy to organize gear; you can customize the backpack interior to fit a camera body with a lens attached as well as 4-5 extra lenses and even a 13-inch laptop. The bag comes in a range of colors, and for those who need to carry more gear when traveling, there’s a 30 L option with plenty of additional space.

6. MindShift Gear BackLight (26 L)

The MindShift BackLight 26 L isn’t especially stylish, but it is spacious, which is why it’s the perfect bag for serious travel shooters who spend day after day in the field. It’s designed to carry heavy gear for long periods, and it offers enough room for multiple camera bodies, a handful of lenses (including longer telephoto glass), and accessories, plus you get a handful of inner and outer compartments to fit storage drives , filters , cleaning cloths, and more.

The rear-panel compartment offers rapid access to your equipment, and your back covers the main access point for increased security. The bag is comfortable, too, and a waist belt keeps wearers feeling good during long outings.

7. Thule Aspect Camera Backpack

The Thule Aspect is a midrange camera backpack that’s perfect for smaller or more informal travel adventures; no, it can’t carry multiple camera bodies and 4+ lenses, but it’ll have no problem carrying a camera, a couple of lenses, and even a tripod and a drone. Plus, because the bag includes handy pockets for a jacket, memory cards, and a laptop, you can store all of your essentials while traveling.

The backpack is well-padded, so you won’t have a problem wearing it for hikes or long walks. The waist belt provides comfort, and the storage space is adjustable. The Thule Aspect is well-built and comes with a Thule guarantee, yet it’s not too expensive, either – so if you’re looking for a reasonably priced backpack that’ll keep your gear safe, it’s certainly worth a look.

8. Tenba Fulton v2 16 L All-Weather Backpack

The Tenba Fulton v2 backpack isn’t extremely expensive, yet it’s a great product for travel photographers who work in rough conditions, including rain, snow, dust, and hail. The backpack contains the ultimate protective features including water-repelling fabric and a water-resistant rain cover designed to protect your camera in all weather.

And while the Tenba Fulton v2 might not be as spacious as some of the other options on this list, it can still carry plenty of gear, including a camera, 5+ lenses, and plenty of accessories. Really, the backpack is perfect for long trips, and it includes a protective sleeve for laptops, a trolley strap for convenient travel, adjustable dividers you can change to suit your requirements, and support for a tripod or monopod .

9. K&F Concept Multifunctional Camera Backpack

The K&F Concept Multifunctional Camera Backpack is an elegantly designed product that is ideal for transporting your equipment on planes, in cars, or when hiking.

The inside is spacious, yet the bag itself feels reasonably sized, so you should have no problem carrying it on a plane. You get an equipment compartment, which is capable of housing a camera body and 3-4 additional lenses, as well as a general-purpose compartment, which fits accessories, a jacket, and other clothing.

The bag comes with a rain cover to protect your gear in case of inclement weather, and it even boasts a tripod attachment. It’s well-priced, relatively lightweight, and includes a laptop compartment and access from the back and side. What more could you want?

10. F-stop Ajna 37 L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Camera Backpack

The Ajna 37 L backpack is the most expensive product on this list. But for those who care about quality above all else, it’s also the best travel photography backpack on the market. It is an outstanding pick for photographers looking for a mix of volume and versatility, and it’s ideal for adventures of all types.

Key features of the bag include a superbly comfortable aluminum frame; well-designed pockets and a back panel to help organize and store items neatly; a hip belt and foam shoulder straps; and a safety whistle.

The backpack’s unique material is extremely durable, and the fabric and zippers are weatherproof. The pack is pleasant to transport on long excursions and works as carry-on luggage. Gatekeeper straps are great for adding extra gear from a tripod to snowboards or skis and are available to purchase separately or as a bundle with an insert and rain cover. And for the ultimate travel photography backpack, you can even buy an attachable drone pouch.

The best travel photography backpacks: final words

Picking the perfect travel photography backpack might seem tough, but it doesn’t have to be! If you’re still struggling to choose, here are my quick recommendations:

The best bag for beginners is either the LowePro Tahoe BP 150 or the Thule Aspect ; both are well-priced, practical, comfortable, and stylish.

For more serious photographers and professionals looking for a high-quality backpack to take on lengthy trips, the LowePro ProTactic BP 350 AW II , F-stop Loka , or F-Stop Ajna are fantastic choices thanks to their excellent capacities, easy access, airline compliance, comfort, and functionality.

The best travel photography backpacks FAQ

Yes! Camera bags protect equipment against theft, impacts, weather, and more.

Camera bags can be used as carry-on or checked luggage.

Cameras are fragile items, so I recommend you always pack them in your carry-on luggage. Make sure that your camera bag is small enough to fit in an overhead carry compartment (though if you can get away with it, stow it at your feet as a personal item).

Keep the front body cap on, pack your equipment snugly so it doesn’t move around, and store lots of accessories in zipper pockets.

Read more from our Cameras & Equipment category

Jeremy Flint is an award-winning photographer and writer, specialising in travel, landscape and location photography and is known for documenting images of beautiful destinations, cultures and communities from around the world. Jeremy has won awards including the National Geographic Traveller Grand Prize and the Association of Photographers Discovery Award, besides being commended in Outdoor Photographer of the Year. He has also been a finalist in the Travel Photographer of the year and British Photography Awards several times. He has been commissioned by commercial and editorial clients worldwide including National Geographic Traveller, Country Life, Discover Britain, USA National Parks and Visit Britain and has travelled extensively to over 65 countries.

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The best camera bag for travel in 2024

No matter how much photo gear you want to take, we've got the best camera bag for travel for you!

Holsters and pouches

Messenger bags, roller bags.

The best camera bag for travel can mean a bag for hikers, for air-travel, for city-breaks, or a whole lot more. Ideally, a good travel camera bag should let you carry a decent amount of gear, without adding too much weight itself. It should have decent weatherproofing, some padding for the kit inside, and well padded straps and handles that make it comfortable to carry for extended periods. 

So, quite a tall order then! Fortunately, manufacturers have proven themselves to be up to the task, and there are loads of fantastic camera bags out there. So much so that it can be hard to know where to start, which is why we've divided our guide up into sections for the different types of camera bag out there.

First, we've picked some of the best ultra-compact holsters, which are designed to take a camera and lens and essentially nothing else. Next, we've picked out our favourite one-shoulder messenger bags and sling bags, for those who like a stylish bag with plenty of accessibility. After that, we've got the best photo backpacks for those who are carrying a bit more kit, or taking it on an extended hike. If you're travelling through airports then the roller bags section will be worth a look, and finally, our picks of the best hard cases are there for those who need the most comprehensive gear protection possible. 

Like we said, there's a lot of choice out there. So, let's dive straight into the best camera bags for travel you can buy!

The best camera bag for travel

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

1. Matador Camera Base Layer

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

This clever holster from Matador is ideal for those who like to head out for wet-weather hikes. It pack in a clever waterproof cover, which scrunches down so small you may not notice it, but can be pulled out at a moment's notice to cover the entire shell, making for a double waterproof cover for your gear. Capacity-wise, the Matador Camera Base Layer is about average for a holster – as we noted in our review, it's not going to hold a full-frame DSLR with a telephoto lens, but it can stretch pretty well, and most lightweight mirrorless and compact setups should be fine.

The Matador Camera Base Layer is more about weather protection than impact protection, and isn't really padded to any great extent. It's therefore an excellent choice for hikers and country-walkers – perhaps less so for city explorers who might want some padding against knocks and bumps. 

2. CosySpeed Camslinger Outdoor

The Camslinger is essentially a bag on a belt, which is more than capable of supporting full-frame DSLRs and mirrorless camera with a medium-sized lens. The belt takes the weight of the kit, meaning that your back or shoulder doesn't have to. It also has an ingenious closure mechanism, which can be undone with one hand – but can not be accidentally opened. With your camera on your waist, you can access your camera more quickly, and change lenses on the move, more easily with most other bags.

3. Billingham Eventer MKII

Let's get this out of the way now: if you're on a strict budget, Billingham camera bags aren't for you. They're premium products, hand-crafted and finished with fine materials, and they come with a price tag that reflects that. They're also made using real leather – so if you avoid animal products, best look elsewhere.

If neither of those criteria apply to you, the Billingham Eventer MKII is a top-tier camera bag. We were hugely impressed with the bag when it came in for a full review; it's superbly designed, with smooth dividers that keep your gear safe while allowing it to slide smoothly in and out. The two expanding front pockets are also amazing – they just swallow up gear, and keep swallowing it up with space to spare. 

4. Manfrotto Noreg messenger-30

Fancy the convenience of a messenger-style bag, but not the cost of a luxury offering like the Billingham Hadley One? The No-reg messenger-30 is much easier on the bank balance, so you needn't worry as much if you're travelling off the beaten track. The urban camo look should also help you blend in as a city native and stop you standing out as a tourist ripe for unwanted attention.

Then there's the bag's standout feature: versatility. On the one hand it's a regular shoulder bag, but the removable padded camera insert also has its own shoulder strap, giving you an additional smaller photography bag for quick photo expeditions. Plus, there's a removable padded laptop sleeve on the back that's useful when you're back home, but can be detached when travelling light. And if you just need an overnight bag that fits airline carry-on regulations, you can take off the laptop sleeve, remove the camera insert and stuff in all the clothes, toiletries and other bits and bobs you need for your overnight stay.

The laptop sleeve is big enough for a 15-inch laptop and there's a sleeve for a 9.7-inch tablet too. On the front of the bag is a pair of straps for a lightweight travel tripod, covered neatly when you clip down the oversized lid. This also has a zipper to allow camera access without unclipping the lid again.

Dig around inside and you'll also find a rain cover which stretches over the top to keep out the worst of the weather.

5. Chrome Niko 3.0 Camera Sling

This tough bag is the first sling-style bag from Niko, and it's an admirable attempt to marry the comfort and utility of a backpack with the to-hand convenience of a sling bag. Does it succeed? Well, we've had the bag in for a full review, and would have to say that it broadly does – the top-opening and design and crossbody strap make it easy to access your gear within seconds' notice. Also, the optional extra security clip that attaches to the cross-body strap is a rally handy extra for those who worry a sling bag won't be secure enough. 

It fits a full-frame system – though is probably more comfortable with APS-C DSLR or smaller mirrorless cameras. We also love the fold-out front pocket, which is a great place to store extra accessories like batteries and SD cards. 

6. Vanguard Alta Rise 43 Sling

Vanguard is known for its innovative photo accessories, such as its tri-footed monopods (it makes sense when you see it), and this bag is another fine example. 

The Vanguard Alta Rise 43 Sling features a useful expansion system, using a single zip to add 6cm of storage width to the interior in a single motion. It's capable of fitting a camera of pretty much any size, up to pro DSLR specs, as well as 4-5 lenses and other accessories. 

All this does make it pretty bulky, especially for a sling bag, but if you don't mind the size and weight, it's one of the most versatile bags for travel out there.

7. Gomatic/Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling 8L

The McKinnon 8L Camera Sling should meet the needs of photographers who use a smartphone, small DSLR or mirrorless camera systems.  There are plenty of pockets, pouches, and dividers for you to organize your gear to suit your preferences. The single padded sling enables you to carry it on your back or keep it close to your chest to protect your gear in crowds and the durable water-resistant material will help you keep shooting regardless of the weather.

8. Morally Toxic Valkyrie

Camera backpacks have got a bit samey over the years, and we can all admit that the boxy black designs, while functional, are not the most exciting. The Morally Toxic range, a spin-off from tripod manufacturers 3 Legged Thing , is an attempt to blow some of the dust out and rethink what camera bags can look like – and their backpack, the Morally Toxic Valkyrie, is a triumph. 

The smart design gives you access to your gear from all angles, without compromising security or weatherproofing thanks to the tough zips. Also, the "Morally" in the name refers to the fact that the bags are manufactured responsibly, with minimal plastic, and recycled ocean plastics used where possible.

If you like the sound of the Morally Toxic Valkyrie but would prefer a messenger of sling, then consider the Morally Toxic Wraith , which is the second debut bag in the range. We're hoping for a lot more in the future, as we reckon the makers are onto a good thing here. 

9. Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack

While mirrorless cameras my be the tools of the moment, there are loads of photographers out there who still find the good old DSLR to be their ideal workhorse camera. The Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack is designed for those who have a chunkier setup and a lot to carry – it's got a dedicated, removable section for DSLR-carrying, and you can use the top section to carry all sorts of miscellaneous kit. Our reviewer used it for a gimbal and a smallish JOBY panning/tracking electric tripod, to give you an idea of the kind of space you have to work with. The large sleeve for a laptop or iPad is handy too, and we like that the water-repelling fabric pairs with a water-resistant weatherwrap cover for serious bad-weather protection. 

10. Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Switch-55

When you need to travel with multiple cameras and lenses, even carrying it all in a camera backpack could become a burden. Transporting everything in a wheeled roller bag and letting the ground take the strain may therefore be a better option.

At first glance Manfrotto 's Reloader Switch-55 looks like a typical roller bag. Its external 55 x 35.5 x 23cm dimensions meet most airline cabin baggage requirements, and this translates to an equally practical 47 x 32 x 18cm interior - enough for a decent selection of full-frame cameras and lenses in a variety of configurations. A large, top-loading slot on the front panel can accommodate a 17” laptop, and there’s a tripod attachment on one side.

The Reloader Switch-55 is also beautifully made and feels reassuringly rugged. Its internal skeleton resists hard knocks and abuse, while generously thick internal padding cossets your gear.

But the standout feature of this bag is that it can also be worn as a backpack - ideal if some parts of your journey will be over terrain too rough for the bag's wheels. Discreetly stowed in a concealed front pocket are two wide shoulder straps that pack impressively flat. The conversion isn’t the quickest, but the end result is surprisingly comfortable.

Despite the straps and quality build, the bag still weighs a reasonable 4kg.

11. Think Tank Airport International V3

This may be one of the priciest camera roller bags you can buy, but you get what you pay for. It's built for pro photographers, and the interior is cleverly shaped to fit a pair of gripped DSLR bodies and lenses as large as a 500mm f/4. There’s also space for a 15” laptop and 10” tablet, plus a tripod on the side. It’s carry-on suitable at 53.3 x 35.6 x 20.3 cm, though we measured the external thickness at 23cm.

Though all of the bags in this guide are built to last, the Airport International V3 exudes supreme quality at every point, from the handle down to the zippers. It lacks the sheer rigidity of a full-blown hard case, but zipped shut it still manages to retain its shape when stood on, partly thanks to the excellent, well-padded rigid interior dividers.

Smart touches include a four-stage extending handle that only intrudes half-way down the bag when stowed, generously-sized underside scuff panels, a stout zipper lock, and even a coated cable and combination lock to tie the bag to an immovable object.

12. Peli Air Case 1535

Hard cases for cameras offer the best possible protection for your gear, short of locking it in a safe, and they’re still fairly portable for travelling. Peli’s Air cases are more portable than most rivals, having been designed to be 40% lighter than a regular Peli hard case of the same size. 

Consequently the Air 1535 weighs just 3.95kg, though that’s only for the plastic shell. Load it with foam padding or a divider insert and the weight difference between this and the equivalently-sized Peli Protector 1510 hard case is more marginal. That said, the Air Case 1535 is fitted with wheels, so even though this is one of the heavier modes of transport on this list, you won't have to carry it far.

With external dimensions of 55.8 x 35.5 x 22.8cm, this case has been designed to stay compliant with most airline cabin luggage rules. But if it does have to go in the hold, you needn't worry, as your gear will stay unharmed even if it encounters the most careless baggage handler. We did our best to burst the Air Case 1535, and while it does flex slightly more when crushed than some heavier hard cases, the difference is reassuringly small. This case is also fully waterproof in addition to being crushproof - your camera gear will stay dry even in a monsoon downpour.

The default interior option is diced foam. You can also spec a Velcro divider insert, but we sampled for Peli’s innovative TrekPak system. This uses sheets of corrugated plastic sandwiched between layers of dense, closed-cell foam. There’s a bespoke cutter included so you can slice each sheet into strips to fit around the gear you want to carry, and the joins are secured by special hooped pins. It’s a very nicely engineered padding system that’s more elegant than basic Velcro dividers, but it's a bit less soft and cossetting than a more conventional foam interior.

13. Vanguard Supreme 53D

We love a camera bag/case that can fit in airline hand luggage, but sometimes you just have to travel with too much camera gear for that, so checking it into the hold is your only option.

In this case, you may as well go large, and at 63 x 52 x 24cm on the outside, the Supreme 53D hard case from Vanguard certainly is that. The payoff is a capacious 56 x 45 x 20cm interior - large enough to carry a serious amount of gear. Thankfully the 53D also has wheels, which are a real must as the case weighs over 10kg, and that's when it's empty.

The D in 53D signifies this case carries a removable padded divider insert, rather than the 53F which contains cubed foam. The 53D is little more expensive than the 53F, but the price difference isn't vast and the D is the smarter buy if you need to reconfigure your interior to carry varied kit requirements. The divider insert is highly customisable, but annoyingly it doesn’t quite fill the whole case, leaving some room for it to wobble around.

Despite its large size, the 53D feels every bit as invincible as more compact cabin-sized cases, with its lid held shut by no fewer than six latches. It’s also rated to withstand 120kg of crushing and is waterproof to a 5m depth.

How we test camera bags

At DCW, we thoroughly test the camera gear that comes our way. With camera bags, we look at build quality, capacity, weatherproofing, ease of use, and any other features that feel relevant to the photographers and videographers who will be using the kit. We have a team of in-house experts who take bags out into the field to see how they perform in real-world shooting scenarios, and we use their findings and opinions to inform our comments in buying guides. 

Read more: • Best camera bags • The best camera backpacks • The best camera sling bags • Hard cases for cameras • The best messenger bags for photographers • The best luxury leather and canvas camera bags • The best roller bags for your camera • The 10 best travel cameras • Best travel drones • Best travel adaptor • The best lenses for travel • The best laptop power banks

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Ben is the Imaging Labs manager, responsible for all the testing on Digital Camera World and across the entire photography portfolio at Future. Whether he's in the lab testing the sharpness of new lenses, the resolution of the latest image sensors, the zoom range of monster bridge cameras or even the latest camera phones, Ben is our go-to guy for technical insight. He's also the team's man-at-arms when it comes to camera bags, filters, memory cards, and all manner of camera accessories – his lab is a bit like the Batcave of photography! With years of experience trialling and testing kit, he's a human encyclopedia of benchmarks when it comes to recommending the best buys. 

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7 Camera Backpacks That Protect And Organize Your Gear On The Go

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Deciding which camera bag to carry can be as daunting as deciding what clothing to pack for an Antarctic vacation of a lifetime. Kelly Serfoss knows your pain. Who? Serfoss is a pro photographer whose ad work you’ve doubtless seen for carmakers from Bentley to Hyundai—and he’s traveled the globe to make it. Yet the ideal bag? “It doesn’t exist,” he laughs when I tell him about our story on the best camera backpacks. “This is a joke inside my house. How many different bags I have in my office. I mean, I have rolling bags and backpacks and inserts, they’re just strewn everywhere.”

Still, he’s game because he says there are ways to think about the right pack all based on what you intend to shoot—or shoot most often. “The best way I know is to make peace with the shot you’re not going to get. Go through that grieving before you go. If you don’t have that massive zoom, well, then you’ll focus closer.”

The best camera backpacks protect your equipment away from home.

Using Serfoss’s suggestion that you ought to bring the right lens or body for the job and not every toy you own should enable you to sift through the following roundup of seven packs (and a few slings) to think about the pack that will be most versatile for your own travel and photography. Wait, travel? Slings? Yep. Serfoss says a better camera bag is just a better bag, period, meaning it’s versatile and comfortable enough sans its camera carting cred, so it works for travel, or a day hike. And he digs slings because they enable carrying a smaller bag within the bigger pack. “You want one that’ll fit your camera, passport, extra battery, a snack...” and then once you arrive at your shooting location, pull out the sling and drop the pack.

As for what gear to leave at home and what to bring, that recipe has changed a bit. Maybe your own mix includes a drone and an action camera, plus a DSLR or mirrorless camera . Maybe it’s just the action cam and your smartphone. “I think of my brother-in-law, who wants to always get the best shots of his kids. That’s a prime lens; it’s his cell phone. It’s not a zoom.” But because there are many scenarios, we’ve rounded up options that are fully equipped with all the bells and whistles of new camera bag designs from brands like Peak Design, Wandrd, Nomatic, Tenba and more. Check out our top recommendations along with some advice—including more insight from Serfoss—for how to shop for the right bag for you.

• Best Camera Backpack Overall: Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2
• Best Camera Backpack For Adventure: Think Tank Mindshift Rotation
• Best Camera Backpack For Travel: Wandrd Prvke
• Best Camera Backpack That’s Also A Suitcase: Nomatic McKinnon
• Best Camera Backpack That Doubles As A Day Bag: Tenba Fulton v2
• Best Camera Backpack For Hiking: Mindshift Gear Backlight
• Best Camera Backpack For Large Lenses: Vanguard Alta Sky 66
• Best Sling For Going Lighter: Bellroy Venture Sling
• Best Organizer Insert: Shimoda Designs Small Core Unit

Best Camera Backpack Overall

The everyday backpack snaps closed with magnets, peak design everyday backpack v2.

Peak Design's 30-liter Everyday Backpack is the most versatile and well-designed bag you're likely to see, and it looks sleek and stylish, to boot. It’s a top-and-side access design, so if you’re used to unzipping the front and exposing the bag’s innards, that won’t work here. Instead, you can reach in from the top or sling the bag around, unzip the side and pull out what you need.

The bag's most notable feature is its heavy use of magnets to help keep things closed and streamlined. The top flap, for example, has a set of four ladder-like clasps; you can clip it closed on whichever rung works best for how much stuff is packed inside. But a strong magnet helps you close it with almost no effort.

Likewise, side pockets (great for tripods, water bottles or your phone) magnetically snap closed. When you’re not wearing it, even the shoulder straps automatically lie flush thanks to a set of magnets. In addition to entry from the top, both sides completely unzip to give you access to anything stored inside. The entire interior is one big volume, but Peak Design includes a few Velcro "shelves" that let you organize the bag any way you like. Each shelf has origami-like pop-up dividers, so you can elegantly arrange bodies, lenses and other accessories and still have a lot of space left over to store clothing and other travel essentials.

The bag has a truly impressive array of pockets and storage nooks, including deep laptop and tablet pockets. Peak also took care in the small touches that show the brand really understands what makes a bag a joy in day-to-day use—the bag has a slew of loops and straps for securing accessories, and you can use some of the loops to "lock" the side access doors in place—handy if you only want to open the bag on one side and keep the other side secure from accidental openings or theft.

But by far the bag’s best feature is an accessory called the Peak Design Capture Clip —it’s an optional gadget that screws on securely to the front of the shoulder strap and lets you hang your camera within easy reach, detachable at a moment’s notice via a quick-release button. It is truly a game changer for photo hikes and other situations where you want your hands to be free but your camera instantly accessible, and still easily mountable on tripods that use the Arca-style quick release plate. Don’t get the backpack without the capture clip.

• Tons of space for non-camera gear
• Velcro dividers to arrange however you’d like
• Quick-release camera strap
• Laptop sleeve doesn’t fit larger 15-inch computers
• Dividers will shift under heavier loads, so put DSLR/large lenses lower in the pack

Best Camera Backpack For Adventure

Think tank’s mindshift allows for the quickest access to your dslr, think tank mindshift rotation.

Serfoss is a fan of Think Tank because they prioritize quick access to your camera. With the Mindshift Rotation series that name and philosophy is perfectly apt, because the rotation in the name refers to a fanny pack built right into the lower portion of the bag. This swivels out of the pack base, yielding immediate access to your DSLR or mirrorless camera—with a lens already mounted. And besides that camera there’s yet more room for up to three other lenses, or a second body and a lens or two (depending on the size).

That swiveling capability and organizational structure also means you’ll spend far less time fishing around inside the pack for the camera gear—it’s always loaded in that fanny pack section within its dividers. There’s also a zippered lid that can hold filters, SD cards, a smartphone, etc., and there’s even enough room for a tablet or iPad. 

The remaining 25 liters at the top of the pack is designed around carrying the rest of your day pack gear, including extra clothes and food. This is also a versatile enough design to carry less camera gear and use the Mindshift as a traditional backpack. That top section could also hold Think Tank’s Stash Master Top Load organizer insert , which could add a modular system to cart an additional five lenses as well as a gripped DSLR body. On the exterior there’s a tripod loop at the back of the pack and a 1.5-liter bottle holder and Think Tank adds a pair of daisy chains in a V-shape on the pack to make it easier to externally attach bulky items like a sit mat or sleeping pad. 

Wisely, Think Tank has a secondary sleeve behind the main hold that can swallow either a 13-inch laptop or a hydration reservoir. Since this is an adventure pack, it wears like one, with mesh shoulder straps that are wider to spread weight more comfortably (same goes for the hip harness) and there’s an integrated torso length slider, which is massively important when you start to add a lot of weight to a pack—since you want that sitting on your hips, not straining your shoulders, and you need to slide the shoulder strap anchor point up or down to get that weight riding low and snug. 

• Super quick access to your camera
• Built-in organizer
• Torso adjuster to fit shorter or taller people
• Optional pricey add-ons
• Slot for laptop or hydration—but not both

Best Camera Backpack For Travel

Wandrd’s bag-within-a-bag design is insanely convenient.

WANDRD Gear

Wandrd Prvke

Most camera bags look more or less alike—thick cases with rigid structure and padding—but the Prvke (pronounced “provoke”) is different. It's more like a bag designed to hold other bags, and as weird as that sounds, it totally works. Here's the deal: The Prvke opens at the back, on the side with the backpack straps, to reveal two main compartments, top and bottom. The bottom half of the bag is designed to accommodate Wandrd's Camera Cube, which is a compact padded case (with its own shoulder strap) embedded with Velcro dividers that house your camera and lenses. You can easily pull it out and carry it around on its own, which is how Serfoss approaches his shoots, or you can leave it in the larger pack but still access its contents. Not only can you open the Camera Cube and get to the insides after opening the Prvke's back, but a side door lets you get into the Camera Cube as well, so there's no downside to the bag-within-a-bag design. It's a gloriously handy solution, and makes the Prvke almost worth its weight in gold for that one feature alone.

But there's so much more. The Prvke is one of the more comfortable bags you'll be lucky enough to encounter thanks to generous padding in the back—something that most bag makers seem to neglect—along with comfy and smartly designed shoulder straps. You can also carry it luggage-style via a pair of straps at the top that stick together via a magnet. And there are a wealth of pockets and compartments inside, along with a generous laptop sleeve.

And then there's the roll top; unclasp the Velcro and unroll it to gain access to the interior through the top, or stuff extra equipment inside; completely unfurled, the roll-top adds a few liters of additional storage, effectively hiding a much bigger bag inside a smaller bag.

If the Prvke has one Achilles Heel, it's the modular nature of the system. Photographers will absolutely want to get the Photography Bundle (or add the Camera Cube separately) because on its own, the Prvke can't really accommodate cameras and other fragile gear.

• Internal camera bag keeps it safe and adds an additional carrying method
• Generous padding creates comfortable wear
• Not enough pockets or dividers to properly store and secure lenses and more than one camera body

Best Camera Backpack That’s Also A Suitcase

Nomatic’s single bag you can carry gear and clothes in, nomatic mckinnon.

Nomatic famously made this bag in partnership with photographer Peter McKinnon, and it's thoroughly infused with the sensibilities of someone who actually uses a camera travel backpack on a day-to-day basis. Unlike most bags, which single-mindedly house your camera gear and other electronics, this 35-liter bag is about the same size as the Think Tank, so although it’s more urban-focused, it can likewise serve multiple functions as a camera bag, carry-on bag and overnight bag for clothes and toiletries. As long as your travel needs are modest—it won't carry a week's worth of stuff—this might be the one and only bag you ever need to travel with again.

The bag does so much . It's a double clamshell, opening in both front and back. In back, you get access to a spacious interior volume with a slew of Velcro dividers, along with mesh pockets and a laptop sleeve. This compartment can fit a staggering amount of gear, or you can store gear in part of the bag and use a divider to hold clothing in the rest. Flip it over, and the front reveals a second storage space with mesh pockets and a compression strap to tamp down your clothes. Need a little more space? Unzip the front to substantially expand the interior volume, much like a carry-on suitcase.

For easy access to your camera, there's a side-access door on one side; the other side has a pocket that expands into a tripod anchor, and it snaps closed with the help of a magnet—very cool. Every part of this bag feels premium, rugged and made with love. It’s truly a joy to use. All that said, the case itself is hefty; it's made of a rugged N900-denier ripstop that’s both burly and water resistant, but it tips the scales at nearly six pounds when empty. The upside: For shorter trips, it's the only bag you need.

• Doubles as an overnight bag with plenty of space
• Heavy, even when empty

Best Camera Backpack That Doubles As A Day Bag

A roll-top bag that can carry your camera or just some clothes, tenba fulton v2.

It’s easy to love Tenba’s Fulton V2 16-liter backpack. This snazzy-looking carryall brings some real innovation to the camera backpack space. First off, it’s stealthy; it doesn’t say “camera,” so it won’t draw undue attention. Second, even though it’s versatile, it weighs less than three pounds. And its designed to work well as both a carry-all and a camera bag.

On the latter front, it features a zippable camera compartment in the lumbar. Set the pack on its back, straps up, and open this section to access your DSLR or mirrorless camera (it’s also large enough to hold a Mavic Air or similar sized drone, or a camera and up to three spare lenses). That open-spine design also means when you set the Tenba down, the back of the pack (not the part that will sit against your body) is what gets exposed to water or grit, so that grime won’t be making contact with your body later on. Even then, this pack is made from 600-denier fabric that’s water resistant, and if you get the all-weather version, it comes with a rain cover.

The double-duty part—there’s still room in the roll-top section for extra clothing, and there’s a front slot that’s large enough to hold a full-sized laptop up to 16-inches, plus room in that section for a portable hard drive, phone, filters, etc. If you’re not out shooting, yank the camera cube and use the entire pack for a trip to the green market. Tenba also incorporates a trolley carry function so it’ll slot through your roll-aboard’s handle, a feature pro shooter Serfoss calls “crucial for saving your energy so you’re not always in hoofing-it mode.” Dual side pockets serve well for holding a tripod and a water bottle, respectively.

• Roll top design instantly adds more space,
• Stealthy look
• Built-in rain and sun cover
• Camera cube doesn’t work as its own bag
• Top grab handle could be longer

Best Camera Backpack For Hiking

A safe way to bring your camera into the great outdoors, mindshift gear backlight.

Like the larger Mindshift 34-liter model, this 26-liter Mindshift is designed around quick access to your camera. While it doesn’t feature the swivel-out camera pod, you can still scoot the entire pack around your body while the waist belt is attached, then open the back panel and access your entire camera kit. It’ll hold a DSLR or mirrorless body, and after that, you can toss in a whopping four to six standard or zoom lenses and a flash. Aside from all of that camera space, there’s a total of nine liters worth of volume for personal items like water bottles, snacks, an extra layer, sunscreen and a few first aid items like bug spray and bandages.

The back features a centered tripod carry, leaving available a side pocket large enough to hold a two-liter water bottle. There’s a 15-inch laptop sleeve as well, though this pocket is also large enough to carry way more gear than that, and is well segmented for a hard drive, lens filters, a paperback and even a rain shell.

We say we dig this backpack for hiking and that’s because you get wider and beefier shoulder straps as well as an oversized waist belt that really spreads the carrying weight well to avoid pinch points. Downsides? It’s not large enough for overnighting, and it doesn’t come with any torso length adjustments.

• Plenty of room for non-camera hiking gear
• Dedicated lens pockets
• Can’t easily reconfigure the interior as a non-camera pack
• No torso length adjustment

Best Camera Backpack For Large Lenses

For every zoom, wide-angle and short telephoto moment, vanguard alta sky 66.

This camera backpack is designed for birders and wildlife shooters who have to carry a heavy-duty tripod and extra-long lenses. It’ll easily carry a DSLR body attached to a 300mm, 600mm and even 800mm lens. What’s extra smart here is that Vanguard makes its pack interiors in canary yellow, so you can see where you’ve stored everything. Fold open the main cavity and you have full access to its contents, and the pack is designed to anchor around that lens, so it’s not swimming in the pack as you walk, since a pad secures it up near the camera body at the top of the pack.

And because carting all that glass is heavy, it’s nice to know Vanguard includes a torso adjustment to the shoulder straps, so you can dial in a proper fit, and that pairs with V-shaped hip straps to broaden the load across your waist.

At the rear, dual buckles hold fast to tripod legs, and one of the many pockets has a built-in rain cover that envelopes the entire pack, making it instantly waterproof. Both the shoulder straps and the panel that sits against your back are heavily padded, making for a comfortable and supportive experience while you’re lugging your equipment around. The main rear pocket holds up to a nine-inch tablet, with slots for spare filters and SD cards, but unfortunately neither of these quarters or other pockets are specifically designed for swallowing a laptop or hydration sleeve.

• Huge main cavity designed for carrying extra-long lenses
• Comfortable straps
• No laptop or hydration sleeve
• Pack is heavy on its own

Best Sling For Going Lighter

Get something large enough for a dslr and accessories, belroy venture sling.

Serfoss notes that men tend not to understand why women have more than one purse. “We’re pretty much morons about this,” he says, and he regards how anyone who wears a purse regularly knows exactly its use case. This is why he advocates slings, and the Belroy Venture 10-liter is just the kind of tool that comes in handy when you don’t need to carry all your gear but do need to stow a camera out of sight.

It features a fat, smooth strap that’s similar to seatbelt material, so it won’t dig in, and it’s got a quick-release lengthener, so you can snug the strap with one hand to elongate it and swing the Belroy in front of you, then return it to your back and tighten it. That’s nice because having a camera swinging around in the breeze against your shoulder wouldn’t be fun, but this system lets it hold tightly, which is more comfortable for walking or e-biking around town. That strap is also reversible, so whether you prefer a right- or left-shoulder carry, you’re a happy slinger.

Inside you can customize the segments to fit a lensed camera or divvy up the sections for a camera body and a few lenses. The front pocket leaves room for keys or lens filters, lip balm and so on, and there’s a soft-lined interior pocket that’s a lovely home for your sunnies or anything else that requires extra TLC. Cleverly, Belroy includes a tripod strap setup that you can deploy at the bottom of the sling, and this system is versatile enough to handle a jacket or a sweater, stretching the potential of the small pack.

• Doesn’t telegraph that you’re carrying a camera
• Small enough for daily wearability
• Comfortable strap
• It may not be large enough for both a long zoom and a camera body
• Could use another pocket

Best Organizer Insert

If you already love your backpack, give it a makeover, shimoda designs small core unit.

Adding a well-padded organizer like the Shimoda Designs Small Core Unit enables you to create a camera insert in any backpack or other preferred luggage. We dig the dimensions and function of this model from Shimoda because it’s large enough to hold a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a 200mm lens attached (or a drone about the size of a DJI Mavic Air) and has a unique cutout for that, so you can pull that out of the block with the organizer still slotted into your pack, which means you’re not messing about pulling the organizer in and out of your pack every time you’re shooting.

The foam dividers inside are also adjustable and thick, so they won’t deform and they attach firmly to the rim of the block, so they won’t shift. Shimoda also lines the interior with a blue hue, the better to find what you’re after quickly. And the entire block has an aluminum frame, so if you have to stow a camera in a soft bag you can be happier knowing the unit is (relatively) reinforced.

• Compact, but still capable of holding a camera with lens and accessory lenses
• Reinforced frame structure and dividers
• Easy access design you extract the camera with the block still in your pack
• No strap of its own, so it cannot be used as a sling
• Could do with more cubbies for filters and SD cards

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The 8 best moisturizers for rosacea that soothe and hydrate, how to pick the right camera backpack for your needs.

There are almost too many camera backpacks to choose from. But if you’re thinking like Serfoss, the ideal filter to use is considering the use case for the shooting you’ll be doing and also the versatility and comfort of the pack for non-photography living. Here are several factors to consider:

As you can tell from our list, the cost of a high-quality camera backpack isn’t low. You can find a great one for under $150, but many of them soar north of that price point. If you’re trying to economize, adding an organizing block to a pack you already own is a great workaround. Serfoss would argue that comfort is really the key. “Even if you’re a physically capable and fit person there’s legitimate wear and tear to wearing even the most comfortable fitting pack.” Unfortunately from our experience testing packs of all breeds, usually comfort and quality go hand in hand with price.

Storage And Protection

A well-designed camera pack has both sturdy dividers that are modular to fit around your lenses and bodies or GoPro or drone, and also has enough pockets and slots for accessories. We also tend to like packs that can pull double or triple duty. You’re not a pro shooter, are you? That likely means you want to find a model that fits your life, not just your hobby as a photographer.

What type of camera are you using? Do you like to carry more than one camera body at a time? Do you need space in the bag for larger lenses or multiple attachments? Are you a birder who’s going to haul a tripod around, or are you vlogging and more likely to shoot with a small Sony, a drone and a GoPro? How about the other things you’ll need while out if you’re hiking or using the backpack as a carry-on while flying? Consider how much space you’ll need, how adjustable the compartments will need to be and how much padding or rigid protection the bag should have.

There’s no getting around it—a DSLR camera , its lenses and other camera accessories are expensive, so you want the camera bag that’s carrying this precious cargo to be one that will protect your stuff adequately. Check out the stitching and gauge whether you think it’s substantial enough to support a heavier load. Is the material thick and sturdy? Are the zippers a tough metal that’s reinforced? Is the inside padded to prevent those delicate lenses from banging against each other? All of these features might be upgrades in one pack when compared to another that feels a bit more flimsy. Those options might be less expensive, but you get what you pay for when it comes to camera bags.

Whether you’re going to have this camera bag on your back for hours at a time or even just in spurts, chances are it’s going to be on the heavier side, so you’ll want it to be comfortable. Look for a bag with thickly stuffed straps that won’t dig into your shoulders, supportive straps to help distribute the weight, a padded rear panel to sit comfortably against your back and other options that take your body into account. Plus, many camera bags are heavy while empty, so it’s key to take into account how long the bag will be on your back and how much weight you’re willing to carry.

Something to watch out for: Some camera bags are heavy even before you put the first item inside, so decide if a bag that’s heavy while empty has enough other advantages to be worth it on the trail—not to mention how much weight you’re ultimately willing to carry.

Weatherproofing

If you’re going to be taking your camera, lenses and gear out on the trail, it’s important to invest in a bag that’s waterproof or water resistant to ensure your expensive cargo is well protected from the elements. Even if the bag you buy isn’t going to repel rain and snow on its own, many come complete with covers that turn your bag into a weatherized carryall in seconds.

Photographers need quick and easy access to equipment in seconds, emphasizing the importance of access points. Unlike traditional backpacks, better camera packs provide various ways to reach interior equipment, including side entry and back panel compartments. A clamshell opening also provides an opportunity to fully unzip the backpack for full visibility of assorted equipment, making it easier to find what you need at a moment’s notice. If you’re photographing athletic events or wildlife—both instances in which timing is everything—consider opting for a camera backpack with different access points.

As we mentioned earlier, camera backpacks have come a long way when it comes to aesthetics, and something so pricey should be pretty cool to look at too. This wasn’t always the case, but camera backpacks today come in an array of colors and sizes with thoughtful pocket placement, trim design and padding that’s placed in flattering and functional places. With so many options available on the market, it’s easy to find one that’s going to catch your eye—in a good way.

Can You Use A Regular Backpack As A Camera Bag?

Investing in these professional-grade cameras and accessories is something you do when you’re serious about photography, whether for professional reasons or because of a passionate hobby you’ve picked up. Respect that investment with a bag that has the padding, protection and compartmentalization to keep your gear safe, secure and easily accessible when you need it. That said, having a camera storage block is handy for converting an existing pack, and as mentioned, as a workaround to save money. Also, we like camera blocks to convert packs designed for sports like skiing or mountain biking—very specific designs—to better carry a camera while engaged in that activity. You should also consider a sling, which enables quickly downsizing from a big, heavy pack to a tote that lets you move more deftly.

What Gear And Accessories Should I Carry In A Camera Backpack?

It’s lovely to think that all you need to take great photos is a camera and some knowledge of how it all works, but it generally makes sense to carry some common accessories to poise you for success.

If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, for example, we recommend carrying spare, fully charged batteries and perhaps an extra memory card. There’s nothing worse than setting up for a beautiful shot and realizing your battery is toast or your memory is full (if you’re using film, then have some spare rolls on you).

If you’ll encounter dirt or dust, pack some tools for cleaning your lens, such as high-quality lens wipes, a blower brush and microfiber cloth. One thing you should never do is reach for the edge of your shirt—cotton and other fabrics are far too course and can easily scratch the delicate lens.

A tripod might add extra weight, but there’s no substitute for a level, shake-free shot. Some mini and collapsible options make carrying a camera support much simpler, and they’re worth looking into. Finally, a waterproof cover for your bag is always a good idea. Rain, no matter how many times you check the weather report, can be unpredictable, and the last thing you want is to be caught in a downpour with a few thousand dollars worth of camera gear.

How Can I Tell If A Camera Backpack Will Be Comfortable?

This might sound like a no-brainer, but if you want to get a feel for a camera backpack, you should try one on. Whether you’re shopping in person or online, getting a first-hand feel for the weight of a bag—both when it’s empty and filled—before realizing it’s too heavy and uncomfortable when you’re far from home is imperative. Strap it to your back, add your camera gear and walk around your house or the store for awhile and note how your back and shoulders feel. This is also a great time to evaluate the ease of camera storage and how quickly or cumbersome it might be to access your equipment on the fly.

What If I Don’t Want To Use A Backpack?

If a traditional backpack isn’t your style, never fear—other means of carrying your various bodies and lenses exist. As we’ve mentioned, there are camera sling bags that sit across your body and especially if you’re working with a small point-and-shoot or just a few lenses, this can be an excellent alternative. These bags also allow you to quickly access your gear in seconds without having to take the bag off, and the design eliminates potential discomfort through the neck, shoulder and back.

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18 Best Camera Backpacks in 2024 (All Tested)

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Finding the best camera backpack in such a saturated market can be challenging. You need something high-quality that protects your photography gear. You’ll want a backpack with useful features. And it has to suit the type of photography you enjoy, whether that’s street, wildlife, or travel.

We tested and reviewed 18 of the best camera backpacks on the market. We sourced a wide range of camera bags from the top manufacturers. And we put each bag through its paces. So this article lists all the camera backpacks, from the best to the not-so-great.

You can see our top three backpacks below. The Wandrd Prvke is our winner. It’s a beautifully constructed bag that’s usable, durable, and looks great! The Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader was a close second. It’s the most versatile backpack on the list. And the bronze goes to the Wandrd Duo Daypack . This is easily the best day backpack for photographers.

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What Is the Best Camera Backpack?

Before we discuss all 18 camera backpacks in detail, here’s an introduction to the top ten. We’ve listed the main pros for all ten, helping you find exactly what you need.

If you need more information, keep scrolling. And if this article isn’t enough, you can read a full review of all 18 backpacks (links provided in each section).

Testing and reviewing 18 backpacks isn’t easy. And, of course, rating backpacks can be subjective. But we’ve tried to be as objective and scientific as possible.

You might not agree with all the rankings. But our scoring process was fair and unbiased right across the board. To know more about our review process, read our detailed description of how we scored and ranked the backpacks .

• Offers exceptional quality and practical design
• Versatility for photographers on the go
• Perfect for adventurous travelers with serious gear
• Comes with a comprehensive lifetime warranty
• Various size options available for different needs
• Manufactured by renowned photography gear brand, Manfrotto
• Boasts a sturdy, spacious and versatile structure
• Provides excellent protection and easy access to camera gear
• Comfortable to wear with impressive adaptability
• Trusted by National Geographic for its functionality and design
• Offers thorough weather protection with robust materials
• Thoughtful features designed by photographers for photographers
• High-quality construction, ample storage, and stylish design
• Excellent for travel due to its compact and lightweight nature
• Superior construction justifies its price, making it a worthy investment

• Designed for convenient, quick access
• Lightweight nylon material for easy portability
• Strategic padding provides comfort and security
• Features ingenious QuickDoor access for ease of use
• Ideal for on-the-go photographers, such wedding photographers

• Premium and lowkey design, perfect for city explorers
• Crafted by Lowepro, a trusted brand with 50+ years of experience
• Durable and rugged, built to withstand various shooting environments
• Features a convenient and versatile internal design
• High-quality materials ensure longevity and protection for your gear

• Renowned manufacturer and famous photographer design
• Versatile storage with "ladder" insert and removable cubes
• Lightweight and durable for secure gear protection
• Stylish design with lifetime warranty
• Perfect blend of style, flexibility, and protection

• Designed by photography enthusiasts for versatility
• Boasts impressive carrying capacity and lightweight design
• Offers professional-level gear storage with innovative elements
• Lifetime warranty assures high-quality build and durability
• Climbing pedigree ensures practicality and resilience for outdoor use

• Perfect for casual photographers seeking a minimalist, robust bag
• Offers superior all-weather resistance with a stylish black camo design
• Lightweight and durable, ideal for urban photographers
• Affordable upgrade at an already affordable price
• Middle-rank in best camera bags, offering good value

• Superior quality and rugged durability for outdoor enthusiasts
• Ample storage and customizable padded dividers for gear protection
• Excellent weather protection for equipment safety
• Versatile and removable padded section doubling as a sling bag
• High-standard Swedish brand with a reputation for reliability

• Designed specifically for air travel
• Efficient use of space with smart features
• Compact and lightweight with high storage capacity
• Includes useful security features for peace of mind
• Comes with a lifetime warranty for long-term use

Our Favorite Camera Backpacks

Now we’ll get into all 18 camera backpacks. The ranking only gives you a rough guide on which bag is best for you. The best products always float to the top in tests like these. But that doesn’t mean our winner is necessarily the best bag for you.

Our list is packed with fantastic camera backs for all occasions. We have travel backpacks for intrepid adventurers. We have specialist bags for wildlife photographers . And we have day bags for urban explorers and street photographers .

Remember, you can read the full review for each bag by clicking the link in the text.

1. Wandrd Prvke Camera Backpack

The Wandrd Prvke camera backpack blends style, durability, and functionality. It builds on Prvke’s reputation for being a reliable option for photographers. It’s a versatile bag that fits the needs of an adventurous traveler-photographer.

Its build quality is exceptional, with a lifetime warranty to back it up. Its materials, from the fabric to the zippers, are solid and robust. So this camera backpack is not just a bag but a safe haven for your expensive gear.

Our reviewer liked the bag so much that he took it on holiday. And he liked it even more when he came back. It’s a super blend of style, functionality, and quality.

The 21L version might feel a bit limited in camera capacity. It’s ideal as a day bag with a mirrorless camera and one or two lenses. This will still leave room for a book and a lightweight jacket. And the roll-top allows that grocery shopping to get home easily.

But there are also larger 31L and 41L versions for those needing more space. The Wandrd Prvke camera backpack is a stylish and practical solution for photographers on the go. It’s not just a bag but a trusted companion for your photography journey.

In our full review of the Wandrd Prvke camera backpack , we gave it a score of 85.3 out of 100.

Use our discount code EXPERTPHOTOGRAPHY at checkout for 15% off your first order!

2. Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader Camera Backpack

The Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader is a camera backpack that impresses on many fronts. It’s a product from a brand with a rich history in photo gear.

The backpack’s design is thoughtful and functional. This makes it stand out in the competitive market.

The Multiloader is incredibly versatile. It’s spacious and sturdy, perfect for photographers who carry a lot of gear. But it’s not just about size. Its comfort and adaptability set it apart.

On the flip side, it may not be ideal for those seeking a lightweight backpack for a day out. But if you’re after a reliable, well-crafted camera backpack, the Multiloader is worth considering.

It’s a testament to Manfrotto’s commitment to quality and attention to detail. And it’s a solid investment for any serious photographer.

In our full review of the Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader camera backpack , we gave it a score of 84.9 out of 100. That is less than 1% lower than the top product. If you’re looking for a bag to carry all your gear for a day’s shoot, you’ll struggle to do better than this!

3. Wandrd Duo Daypack Camera Backpack

The Wandrd Duo Daypack Camera Backpack is a top-tier choice for photographers. It stands out due to its compact, lightweight build and robust materials. Its weather protection is top-notch, ensuring your gear stays safe in any weather condition.

But the Duo Daypack isn’t just about protection. It’s also about the user’s experience. It has a range of unique features that make it more than just a backpack.

From a multitude of pockets to a convenient main zipper for easy access, the Duo Daypack is a joy to use. The features haven’t been added ad hoc. Every detail has been well-designed and carefully considered. It’s the perfect blend of function and form.

But the Duo Daypack is not without its flaws. It lacks space for multiple camera bodies. And some standard features, like tripod and waist straps, are sold separately.

Despite these minor limitations, the Duo Daypack remains a worthy investment. It’s a high-quality, stylish, and practical camera backpack. It isn’t the cheapest backpack. But it’s worth every penny.

In our full review of the Wandrd Duo Daypack camera backpack , we gave it a score of 82.6 out of 100. It’s thoroughly worthy of its place in the top three.

As a day bag, some photographers will find it limited. But when it comes to quality, design, and functionality, the Wandrd Duo Daypack is hard to beat.

4. Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III Camera Backpack

The Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III camera backpack offers convenience and security. It’s designed for photographers who need to act quickly.

The bag’s QuickDoor access feature combines the best of both side and full-compartment access. And it provides a practical solution for on-the-go photographers.

The bag is made of lightweight nylon material. This ensures it remains easy to carry, even when packed with equipment. But the minimal padding might affect comfort during long hours of use.

Despite this, the Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III stands out with its design focus. It’s a bag built by photographers, for photographers.

Each component, from the access points to the zippers, is designed with the user’s experience in mind. It’s a practical, everyday backpack that successfully marries convenience with security.

In our full review of the Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III camera backpack , we gave it a score of 81.5 out of 100. It just misses as a top-three bag. But many photographers may consider this the best bag on the market.

5. Lowepro FreeLine BP 350 AW Camera Backpack

The Lowepro FreeLine BP 350 AW is an exceptional camera backpack that delivers on multiple fronts. It’s designed for photographers who value style, simplicity, and quality construction.

The exterior of the bag is sleek and professional. So it’s an ideal choice for various photography genres. And the bag’s interior is built with high-grade materials, ensuring the safety of your gear.

Its innovative QuickShelf divider system allows easy organization and access to equipment. But its side access design might be a bit inconvenient for some, as the flaps don’t stay open.

The bag’s build quality is top-notch. It uses a high-grade nylon 66 exterior material that’s water- and abrasion-resistant.

And despite its premium pricing, the bag’s longevity and durability make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re a street or wedding photographer, the FreeLine BP 350 AW offers style, convenience, and durability.

In our full review of the Lowepro FreeLine BP 350 AW camera backpack , we gave it a score of 81 out of 100. It slightly trails behind its Lowepro sibling.

But the FreeLine holds its own thanks to its great design and features. Its high-quality materials give it an edge over many bags on this list.

6. Nomatic McKinnon 25L Camera Backpack

The Nomatic McKinnon 25L camera backpack is an impressive piece of gear. It’s stylish and lightweight yet keeps your equipment safe.

A well-respected manufacturer and a famous photographer designed it. And the result is a backpack that’s perfect for photographers.

The “ladder” insert and removable cubes offer versatility. These features have been well-executed, reflecting Nomatic’s reputation for quality and innovation.

But it isn’t perfect. Its main shortcoming is the lack of a quick-access side opening. The top access arrangements make up for this slightly, though some may find it lacking.

Despite this, the Nomatic McKinnon 25L camera backpack remains a top pick. It offers a perfect blend of style, flexibility, and protection. And the bag even comes with a lifetime warranty!

In our full review of the Nomatic McKinnon 25L Camera Backpack , we gave it a score of 79.2 out of 100. Our reviewer’s daughter, a photographer, quickly snatched up the test model. And it hasn’t disappointed.

Use our discount code EXPERT15 at checkout for an extra 15% off!

7. Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L Camera Backpack

Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L is a powerhouse among camera backpacks. Born from a collaboration of photography enthusiasts and climbers, it carries a mountaineering heritage.

It’s not just an adventure-oriented bag . It’s professional gear designed for hiking photographers. Its impressive carrying capacity and lightweight design make it a top contender.

But it’s not perfect. The rucksack vibe may not suit everyone. It has only one access point to the main compartment. And the waist strap isn’t detachable or stowable.

Padding between the sides and the interior may also be insufficient for some. Yet, with a lifetime warranty, it reassures buyers of its high-quality build.

The MindShift BackLight 18L proves to be very capable. It blends functionality with design, and although it has flaws, it’s a strong contender in the camera backpack market. It impressed us with the amount of gear that can be safely stowed.

In our full review of the Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L Camera Backpack , we gave it a score of 76.1 out of 100. If you’re used to strapping lots of gear to your bag for a day out, the Think Tank could be perfect for you.

8. Tenba Fulton V2 Camera Backpack

The Tenba Fulton V2 camera backpack is a lightweight, weather-resistant option for casual photographers. Its sleek and minimalist design makes it a great choice for everyday use.

The bag’s superior weather resistance and the durable material used in its construction make it perfect for urban photographers navigating various weather conditions.

The main drawback of the Tenba Fulton V2 is its limited storage space for personal items. But its lightweight nature and comfortable build make it an ideal backpack to carry.

And its security features, like the rear access to the camera compartment, add extra layers of protection for your gear.

Despite its position in the middle of the rankings, the Tenba Fulton V2 still offers good value. It’s for photographers seeking a minimalist, robust, and affordable camera backpack.

In our full review of the Tenba Fulton V2 camera backpack , we gave it a score of 76 out of 100. Surprisingly, it did not place higher. But the Tenba Fulton V2 is well worth considering.

The scoring took into account the poor warranty and minimal additional features. So if these aren’t issues for you, it is still a strong contender!

9. Thule Covert 32L Camera Backpack

The Thule Covert 32L camera backpack is a dream come true for outdoor photographers. It has a rugged build, is made of high-quality materials, and has impressive durability.

This makes it ideal for those who often find themselves in challenging environments. Despite being on the heavy side, the weight is justified by its solid construction and superior features.

The Covert’s versatility is another standout aspect. The customizable padded dividers allow photographers to carry different gear.

You can also remove the padded camera section and use it as an independent sling bag . This adds a whole new level of versatility.

The Covert does have a few downsides. The weight might be a concern for some, especially for older users. And the limited space in the padded camera pouch could be a letdown for professionals.

But the Thule Covert 32L Camera Backpack is worth considering for those passionate about outdoor photography. Its robustness, versatility, and high protection standard make it a solid investment.

In our full review of the Thule Covert 32L camera backpack , we gave it a score of 75.4 out of 100. The Covert should have ranked higher. But Thule’s disappointing two-year warranty hurt its final score. If not for that, it would have been several places higher.

10. Think Tank Airport Essentials Camera Backpack

The Think Tank Airport Essentials is a top-notch camera backpack. It’s specifically designed for air travel. And it’s compact, lightweight, and smartly designed.

Its size and efficient use of space are its biggest strengths. It can carry multiple camera bodies, lenses, and even a laptop . You can fill it to the brim without exceeding the carry-on luggage limits.

The bag’s exterior is made of durable, water-repellent material, making it tough and travel-friendly. The interior, though, could use more padding for better gear protection.

Despite this, the bag is well-constructed and offers good value for money. It’s a solid investment for photographers who fly frequently.

The backpack’s lack of versatility might be a downside for some. But its strengths lie in its excellent storage capacity, efficient use of space, and stylish design.

In our full review of the Think Tank Airport Essentials camera backpack , we gave it a score of 75.4 out of 100. The lack of versatility has put the Airport Essentials in the lower half of the list.

But the quality construction and a lifetime warranty mean it still scrapes into the top ten. The Think Tank Airport Essentials is a reliable travel companion for photographers.

11. Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW Camera Backpack

The Trekker Lite BP 250 AW is a camera backpack designed for adventure. It’s lightweight and compact, making it perfect for photographers who love to explore. And its removable camera compartment allows customization, depending on your needs.

Lowepro is a well-known brand with a reputation for durability. The Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW is part of their “Green Line” emphasizing sustainability. It’s made of 80% recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly choice.

But the bag does have some limitations. Its camera compartment is on the smaller side, making it suitable for a full frame mirrorless or compact camera with one additional lens. Also, it lacks a waist strap.

Despite these limitations, the Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW is an excellent choice for photographers who value lightweight design, flexibility, and sustainability. Its unique features and design make it a solid addition to any photo gear collection.

In our full review of the Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW camera backpack , we gave it a score of 74.7 out of 100. The camera bag’s lack of padding and versatility gave it a low overall score.

As we can see, this bag has a particular purpose. So it may not be a great overall camera bag. But it does what it is designed for exceptionally well.

12. Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 22L Camera Backpack

The Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 is a camera backpack designed with wildlife and outdoor photographers in mind. Its design is simple yet practical and unique. And the durable materials ensure longevity even for the most adventurous users.

The bag is versatile enough for air travel or outdoor expeditions. The Kiboko V2 designers had photo safaris in mind when creating this backpack.

The Kiboko V2.0 flaunts a robust outer frame and ample storage capacity. It’s ideal for housing large lenses , a plus for wildlife photographers.

The dual compartments split opinion. Some love it because it increases flexibility, letting you pack gear in one and other personal items in the other. But others might prefer one large compartment for more equipment.

The Kiboko V2.0 offers excellent weather protection. The outer material is already weather-resistant. But the bag also comes with a completely weatherproof case. So you can walk around in the rain for hours without worrying about your gear.

The backpack also features a laptop sleeve, tripod strap, and water bottle holder , adding to its appeal. But with its relatively high price tag, the Kiboko V2.0 may be more suited to professionals.

In our full review of the Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 22L camera backpack , we gave it a score of 72.9 out of 100. The Kiboko V2 is a fantastic camera backpack for wildlife expeditions in the jungle or savannah.

But the high price has taken a chuck out of the final score. Even a slight discount would put this Kiboko bag higher on our list.

13. Peak Design Everyday Zip 15L Camera Backpack

The Peak Design Everyday Zip 15L camera backpack is an intriguing blend of style and functionality. Its compact, lightweight design is a plus and perfect for urban explorers.

The brand’s commitment to sustainability in using recycled materials is commendable. The bag also has a lifetime warranty, inspiring confidence in the product’s durability.

But the backpack’s design isn’t without flaws. The main compartment, while spacious, lacks sufficient padding for camera gear.

The unique divider system is innovative. But it complicates organization and fails to provide ample protection.

Despite these drawbacks, the Peak Design Everyday Zip shines in its weatherproofing abilities. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, providing excellent protection for your equipment.

In essence, the Peak Design Everyday Zip is a reliable camera backpack with a unique design and high-quality build. Many urban photographers will have a good time with it.

In our full review of the Peak Design Everyday Zip 15L camera backpack , we gave it a score of 72.5 out of 100. We commend Peak Design for its original thinking. But their originality hasn’t quite hit the mark. Its awkward design means it lost points for usability.

14. Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Camera Backpack

The Tenba DNA 16 DSLR camera backpack stands out for its unique design and versatility. It’s a chameleon, blending seamlessly into any professional event or casual outing.

The bag’s standout feature is its front camera insert that opens like a mailbox. It provides easy and discrete access to your camera gear .

But the camera compartment leaves a bit to be desired. It’s small, and the padding is thin, which might not adequately protect your gear. The bag’s design prioritizes casual and street photographers who carry minimal equipment.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Tenba DNA 16 DSLR offers good value. The weatherproof materials and durable construction make it a reliable choice for photographers on the go.

And its sleek, unassuming exterior lets it fit into any environment without drawing unwanted attention. So it’s a solid choice for photographers seeking a functional, stylish, and adaptable camera backpack.

In our full review of the Tenba DNA 16 DSLR camera backpack , we gave it a score of 72.5 out of 100. The overall score took a big hit due to the lack of camera storage space. But this bag still suits those who don’t have an extensive camera gear collection.

15. Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 Camera Backpack

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is a sturdy camera backpack renowned for its build quality and use of sustainable materials.

Peak Design’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the 100% recycled post-consumer materials. This environmentally-friendly approach has earned the brand a positive reputation in the photography community.

But the backpack’s design has some drawbacks. The side camera access, while convenient, can make organization and gear retrieval a bit challenging.

And its divider arrangement is also less intuitive than other models. So it might be a deterrent for some photographers.

Despite these minor issues, the bag’s durability and weatherproof qualities make it a reliable choice. It’s suitable for daily use in various environments, from city commutes to mountain treks.

The clamshell design and sleek aesthetics add a touch of professionalism. So it’s an ideal choice for photographers who value style and functionality.

In our full review of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 Camera Backpack , we gave it a score of 72.3 out of 100. The open-shell nature of this camera bag scored low on our list.

This is because it doesn’t seem to manage its space extremely well. But the high-quality materials do make it a bag still worth considering.

16. Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ Camera Backpack

The Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ is a photographer’s ultimate companion. Designed by photographers, it understands the unique needs of a camera carrier.

The bag is lightweight, making it easy to carry around. But it doesn’t compromise on protection. Its high-tech weatherproof materials ensure your camera gear is safe from the elements.

The bag is tailored for mirrorless cameras , yet it’s versatile enough for a full frame DSLR . This versatility extends to its customization options. You can organize your gear in a way that suits your workflow.

This thoughtfulness extends to its production too. The camera backpack’s main component is produced in a carbon-neutral factory, making it an eco-friendly choice.

While the Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ may not be the cheapest option, it offers great value. Its robust construction, thoughtful design, and eco-friendly manufacturing make it a worthy investment.

In our full review of the Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ camera backpack , we gave it a score of 72.1 out of 100. It suffered in value when looking at costs.

It gets expensive if you pay extra for a hip belt and waterproof cover. But the basic bag is super light, comfortable, and very practical.

17. f-stop Dalston Camera Backpack

The f-stop Dalston is a lightweight, roll-top camera backpack for urban exploration. The simple design and durable materials make it a decent choice for photographers with a minimal setup.

The backpack’s greatest strength is its weight. Despite its 21L capacity, it weighs just 1.8 lb (0.82 kg). So it’s ideal for on-the-go photographers.

It’s also versatile. You can use the backpack with or without the padded camera section. Once removed, the Dalston becomes a standard backpack with a large capacity for clothes and other personal effects.

But the Dalston has its shortcomings. The synthetic feel of the materials doesn’t scream luxury. And the camera insert lacks adequate padding. The bag also has layout and access issues, making it less user-friendly.

The Dalston’s color options are also a letdown. You can choose Aloe Green or Nasturtium Orange, and neither has a broad appeal.

The weather protection is respectable. You can walk about in the rain for long periods without issue. But it lacks features we expect to see even on basic camera backpacks.

In our full review of the f-stop Dalston Camera Backpack , we gave it a score of 60.6 out of 100. The majority of points came from its durability and the build materials. But the Dalston lost points due to the lack of features, awkward side access design, and a short warranty period.

18. f-stop Dyota Camera Backpack

The f-stop Dyota is a stylish, lightweight camera backpack. It’s made from quality materials and boasts a waterproof design. But when it comes to functionality as a camera bag, it disappoints.

The Dyota’s padding is inadequate, offering protection only on three sides. This leaves your gear vulnerable to side impacts.

Customization is also limited, with the camera unit proving awkward to adjust. Access to your equipment is also challenging, with stiff material and narrow openings. And this makes it difficult to retrieve your gear.

While the Dyota may be suitable for some, it falls short in key areas. It’s sleek and modern but lacks the practicality and flexibility needed in a camera backpack.

Despite its high-quality construction, we can’t overlook its shortcomings. For photographers needing a reliable, well-padded backpack, the Dyota may not be the best choice.

In our full review of the f-stop Dyota camera backpack , we gave it a score of 58.5 out of 100. It fell short in the key areas of protection and practicality. We think there are much better options out there.

Conclusion: The Best Camera Backpack

We’ll be surprised if you haven’t found the perfect camera backpack from our list. We’ve tried and tested all 18 of them.

And we’ve reviewed different types of backpacks so every photographer can find what they’re looking for. So whether you’re a street photographer in the city or a wildlife photographer on safari, there’s a backpack here for your type of photography .

You might not agree with all the rankings. But we’ve done this to give you an idea of what’s great and not so great. Coming to these conclusions wasn’t easy. But we’ve been fair and objective with all the camera backpacks.

Most photographers would be happy with any of the top three backpacks. The Wandrd Prvke is the height of quality for camera bags. You’ll be lucky to find a backpack with better usability and functionality than the Manfrotto Multiloader . And if you’re looking for something casual, the Wandrd Duo Daypack is your best option.

Use our discount code EXPERTPHOTOGRAPHY at checkout for 15% off your first Wandrd order!

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The Best Camera Backpacks for Safe Travel

The best bags to haul and protect your photography equipment around town or into the mountains.

By Tanner Bowden and Hayley Helms

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

Camera gear is heavy. Even a sparing system consisting of a camera body and two lenses can approach ten pounds. Add in more lenses , batteries, a flash, external hard drive, filters and other accessories, or perhaps even a second camera body, and the heft factor multiplies fast. If you’re toting around this much photography gear, a dedicated camera backpack can be indispensable.

For a long time, though, camera backpacks have been a bit, for lack of a better word, dorky . They’ve been bulky and conspicuous, neither of which are great traits for a bag meant to carry thousands of dollars worth of heavy equipment.

Products in the Guide

Best Overall Camera Backpack

Best Upgrade Camera Backpack

Best Budget Camera Backpack

Shimoda Explore V2 25

Best Camera Backpack for Adventuring

Wandrd Fernweh

Best Burly Design

Moment Rugged Camera Sling

Tenba byob camera inserts, peak design camera cube, f-stop internal camera units.

Thankfully, product designers have caught on. They’ve taken advantage of the same materials and features that make bags capable of withstanding harsh weather and hundred-mile backpacking trips . The result is that today’s camera backpacks are more protective, more organized and more comfortable than ever before.

What to look for in a camera backpack

Size and capacity.

When it comes to capacity, most camera backpacks (and hiking and outdoor packs in general) are measured by liters. The larger the capacity of your chosen pack, the larger — and traditionally, heavier — it’s going to be. An average camera backpack falls in the range of a 20–45 liter capacity, and will weigh around 3–5 pounds. A typical 30-liter backpack can fit a camera body like an Sony A7RII, four prime lenses, accessories like a flash and a laptop — with ease.

As with their traditional hiking counterparts, camera backpacks have benefitted from the myriad material innovations of the last couple decades. These packs certainly aren’t your grandfather’s camera bag: they’re lightweight, durable and water-resistant or fully waterproof. Common materials used in camera backpacks include ripstop nylon, polyester, canvas and TPU laminate, among others. Keep an eye out for a water-resistant or waterproof coating; high-quality packs will also have tougher, waterproof zippers like YKK to further protect your gear.

Design matters in all things, but when you’re shooting on the trail and all moments are fleeing, it pays dividends to haul along a camera backpack with a thoughtful and useful design. Invest in a camera backpack that has both side and rear loading, so you can easily access your equipment at a moment’s notice from the side or remove the pack and zip off the back panel entirely, revealing everything you’ve packed.

Many camera backpacks will come with integrated or included camera cubes for organizing lenses and other loose items, but do your research here; if it’s an integrated design system, make sure it works for you before pulling the trigger on your purchase. Your money may be better spent on a more custom set-up, picking your own pack and camera cube, to ensure the design flows with your process.

The Best Camera Backpacks You Can Buy

Wandrd prvke.

• Space for extra layers and snacks comes in clutch
• Have to purchase a camera insert separately
• Materials : Waterproof tarpaulin and robic 1680D ballistic nylon; weather-resistant zippers
• Weight : 2.8 pounds
• Capacity : 21 liters

Simply put, Wandrd gave the Prvke everything you want in a camera backpack: convenient access equipment via back and side panels, organizing pockets for cables and other accessories, a padded laptop sleeve and space for extra layers, snacks or any other gear you might need to bring on a shoot (just how much depends on which size bag you opt for).

These are prerequisites, though; the Prvke stands out because it’s made of a rugged, weatherproof material that makes it functional for various scenarios, because its roll-top design gives it packing flexibility and because it’s discreet and doesn’t necessarily look like it’s full of expensive camera gear. One downside is that you have to purchase Wandrd’s padded camera insert separately (the 41-liter Prvke comes with one), but we do like that these are removable, which means you can use it with other bags too.

The Wandrd Prvke is also available in 31-liter and 41-liter sizes .

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

• $237.96 at peakdesign.com $279.95 (15% off)
• Included customizable organization system is a major bonus
• Not as sleek as other packs of a similar size
• Materials : Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas shell is DWR impregnated, double PU-coated
• Weight : 3.63 pounds
• Capacity : 20 liters

Peak Design’s Everyday Backpack is unique among camera bags. Instead of using a removable insert for equipment organization as most do, the bag has three of Peak Design’s FlexFold dividers, which act like shelves and have folding ends for a remarkably customizable storage system. You can take them out if you don’t need them, and you can access them from zippered panels on both sides of the bag.

The list of the Everyday Backpack’s other features is long and impressive — it includes a size-adjustable laptop sleeve that’s separate from the main compartment, tons of stretchy, sleeve-style pockets for small items (we count 12), exterior sleeve pockets for a water bottle or tripod and an expandable lid with a fast-opening magnetic latch. Speaking of magnets, there are a bunch in the bag — they keep some zipperless pockets closed, and a set also secures the shoulder straps to the pack’s back panel when not in use. It’s a small detail but keeps everything nice and compact.

We could go on because Peak Design left no detail untouched (okay, here’s one more: you can attach the zipper pulls to loops for a bit of light theft prevention ). The pack is pretty structured, which is good for protection but means it’s not as sleek as others, especially in the larger 30-liter size. For a similar set of features in a slimmer package, check out Peak Design’s smaller Everyday Backpack Zip .

F-Stop Dalston 21L Roll Top

F-Stop Dalston

• $139.99 at Amazon $169.99 (18% off)
• Roll-top makes for easy access to main compartment
• Internal laptop sleeve could be more durable
• Materials : DWR 420D ripstop nylon with TPU laminate
• Weight : 1.8 pounds

If you don’t have a ton of camera gear (or simply don’t want to lug it around on your back) and aren’t looking for as many special features, you can save some cash by opting for a more straightforward pack like F-Stop’s Dalston. The bag is set up for side access to your camera via a removable padded insert — it’s not as versatile as others we tested but does the job here — and its roll-top design offers expandable storage for other items on top of that. There’s also a separate laptop/tablet sleeve. There’s one more small exterior pocket on the backpack’s face, but not much else in terms of organization. For photographers with less gear, the design is still ideal.

• $372.90 at Amazon
• Feature-rich while maintaining a small profile
• Very pricey compared to other, capable options
• Materials : Water-resistant ripstop nylon
• Weight : 4.5 pounds
• Capacity : 25 liters

Every so often, a product in a given category will achieve a cult following. The Yeti Tumbler. The Solo Stove Fire Pit. The Helinox Chair One. In the world of camera backpacks, the Shimoda would be a strong contender for possessing that quality. It’s smartly-designed, and is rugged enough for outdoor adventures while being sleek enough to travel in the city.

There are plenty of customization thanks to its Camera Core Units: they come in different sizes and shapes, allowing you to pick and choose what you’ll need for a specific outing. Lockable zippers, a hidden passport pocket and water-resistant fabric enhance the Explore V2’s usefulness in a variety of environments. The adjustable torso height allows for a wide variety of body types to wear the pack comfortably, and there are a ton of pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve, hydration bladder pocket and an expandable water bottle pocket.

Atlas Athlete

Atlas Packs Athlete

• $395.00 at atlaspacks.com
• Durable ripstop fabric can handle intense weather and travel with ease
• Straps can be complex if you're used to something more urban-oriented, and less outdoors-focused
• Materials: Weatherproof 240 double ripstop shell
• Weight: 4.6 pounds
• Capacity: 20-40 liters

While many of the backpacks here use some version of a removable camera insert for organization and protection. Atlas’s Athlete has one built-in. The brand calls it the Origami Camera Core, and the compartment is separate from the rest of the bag, where there’s room for gear for camping, skiing, climbing and so on. There is an element of customization, though — you can adjust a semi-rigid panel so that there’s either more room in the photo section of the pack or more in the gear section, depending on what you need. Without inserts, you also save on weight and can better manage how the load sits inside the bag.

Atlas also packed the Atlas with features for adventuring. We’ve tested the bag on hiking trips and ski trips and have appreciated how efficiently the Origami Camera Core system divides up the pack’s space and how similarly it functions like a bag not oriented toward photography.

• $349.00 at wandrd.com
• Separate compartment for water bladder is a plus
• Water bottle pocket is hard to access when the straps are clipped
• Materials : N420D HD Ripstop with 5PM Coating and N630D. YKK Weather Resistant Zippers
• Weight : 5 pounds
• Capacity : 50

All of the backpacks on this list can accompany you on short trips down a trail, but for full-day or multi-day adventures, you might want to consider something more substantial. Wandrd’s Fernweh takes many features from hiking backpacks — a supportive hipbelt and shoulder harness, breathable back panel, load adjustment straps — and adds camera accessibility. The Fernweh has the same side panel access as the Prvke, and its back panel zips open for a total view of the bag’s contents (this is nice for unpacking when you get to camp, too). The front panel also opens for a total of four entrances to the bag’s insides.

Wandrd’s camera protection and organization system relies on its removable cubes. It’s a bummer that the Fernweh doesn’t come with one, but it’s nice that you can always remove that element and use it just as a hiking pack if you aren’t taking photos.

Mission Workshop Integer

• $485.00 at missionworkshop.com
• Understated aesthetic is great for keeping expensive gear low-profile
• At almost five hundred bucks this is one of the most expensive bags on the list
• Materials : 2-layer, waterproof fabrics and YKK construction
• Weight : 1.7 pounds (without camera insert)
• Capacity : 24 liters

Mission Workshop’s Integer calls to mind a bike messenger bag, but it has a full set of features for hefting photography gear around urban environments (it works well for shorter outdoor adventures too). Beneath the oversized buckle on its face is a zippered access point to the main compartment. Inside, there’s a removable padded camera insert for your photo gear. You can also reach this section from a side access point for on-the-go shooting and from the top, which helps for packing (we also like that you can zipper shut a separator to create two distinct compartments for photo and non-photo gear).

In addition to access, the Integer excels with lots of organization for smaller items, plus a nifty tripod sling on the side. But a major reason to love this backpack is its construction, which consists of weatherproof two-layer fabric that lends structural support as well as protection. A former Gear Patrol photographer praised its durability and its low-key looks. “I like the idea of people not knowing there’s camera gear inside,” he says.

• $89.99 at shopmoment.com $129.99 (31% off)
• Can carry a full camera kit without being uncomfortable
• 10-liter version is pretty bulky for a sling
• Materials : NorthPak 100% recycled polyester fiber and film
• Weight : 1 pound, 6 ounces
• Capacity : 6 liters (also comes in a 10 liter version)

There are often times when even a small backpack feels like overkill for a particular photo opp or outing. Maybe you don’t need a second lens, or perhaps you’re leaving the laptop and extra clothing layers at home. Suddenly, that backpack has a lot of unused space. Enter the sling bag. More specifically, Moment’s Rugged Camera Sling , which has the best photo-focused features of the many slings we’ve tested, many of which are too small to accommodate anything larger than a point-and-shoot or so bulky you might as well wear a backpack instead.

Available in six- and 10-liter volumes, the Rugged Camera Sling has enough space for a camera and a few lenses plus all the other accessories (a charger, spare batteries, hard drive, etc.) you might need for a short trip or photoshoot. We fit all this plus a lightweight jacket into the 10-liter version and had plenty of space to cram in more — we didn’t, for example, take advantage of the padded tablet pocket.

More importantly, the Rugged Camera Sling can carry all this stuff without becoming uncomfortable slung over your shoulder. The bag’s strap attaches to little wings that help it hug the body without deforming its shape or squeezing contents against you, and an included stabilizing strap helps prevent it from swinging around while you’re on the move. Moment wrapped it all up in a recycled sailcloth fabric that’s durable, waterproof and pretty darn slick.

The Best Camera Inserts

In putting together this guide, we surveyed bag recommendations from Gear Patrol’s former and current staff photographers and the freelance photographers we work with too. Many of them shared a similar insight: the perfect camera backpack doesn’t exist. Many aren’t suitable for specific activities — “I have yet to find anything close to sufficient for distance running,” says Gear Patrol contributor Andy Cochrane — or are made for carrying more photo gear than you need.

The solution: camera inserts. Many of the brands that make our favorite camera backpacks also make stand-alone camera inserts, sometimes called camera cubes, that fit into any bag you already own. “They make anything usable,” says former Gear Patrol staff photographer Chase Pellerin . “It’s not as run-and-gun, but it allows you to turn any bag into a camera bag.” Here are our three favorites.

Tenba BYOB Collection

• $65.95 at tenba.com

Tenba’s BYOB line of inserts comes in sizes ranging from single-camera carry up to a complete kit with multiple lenses. They have modular padding, and each one has additional exterior and interior pockets for things like cables, memory cards, etc.

• $49.95 at peakdesign.com

Peak Design made its Camera Cube to fit seamlessly into its travel bags , but they function equally well in other bags and backpacks too. It comes in three sizes, and each one comes with full padding and flexible dividers you can move around to create your ideal configuration.

F-Stop Internal Camera Cube Insert – Pro Small

• $39.00 at shop.fstopgear.com

F-Stop also made its camera inserts with its backpacks in mind, but they can work well with others. They come in different sizes and depths, the biggest of which can support full movie-making kits. These, too, have customizable pad inserts that can adapt to any setup.

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23 Best Photography Backpacks in 2024 (Multiple Size Options)

Written by Dan

Updated on December 30th, 2023

This year’s best ideas for photography backpacks, include bags that fit laptops, photo bags that are great for travel, sling bags and photo backpacks for every type of photographer.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Photography Backpacks

Peak Design Everyday Sling v2 (3L)

Moment Rugged Camera Sling

Think Tank Photo TurnStyle 5V2.0 Sling Camera Bag

Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling (8L)

Lowepro Slingshot SL 250 AW III Camera Bag

Domke F-2 Original Shoulder Bag

Think Tank Photo Retrospective 30 V2.0 Shoulder Bag

Domke F-5XB RuggedWear Shoulder and Belt Bag

Vanguard Havana 48-Backpack

Lowepro Flipside 200 AW II Camera Backpack

Moment MTW Backpack

• Moment Everything Backpack

Brevite Jumper Photo Backpack

Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip (15L)

Peak Design Everyday Backpack v2 (20L)

Hex Ranger Clamshell Black DSLR Backpack

WANDRD PRVKE 21L v2 Photo Bundle

MindShift Gear BackLight 18L Backpack

• Nomatic McKinnon Camera Backpack with 2 Small Cubes (25L)
• Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack with Medium Camera Cube Kit
• Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera and Laptop Backpack
• Think Tank Photo StreetWalker Pro V2.0 Backpack
• Think Tank Photo Airport Commuter Backpack
• f-stop TILOPA 50L Expedition Backpack Bundle

I have a long history with photography backpacks. The amount of photography gear that I have, and the amount that I need to carry around, changes based on the type of photography that I am doing.

Sometimes I’ll go out for the day with a small camera. Other times, I’ll need to carry two camera bodies and several lenses. The bag that I choose to use matters a lot, in these cases!

In this article, you’ll learn about different size options for camera backpacks. I’ll mention if I have used the bag in its current model, or a previous version. I’m excited to share some of my experience with you, and I hope that this list of photography backpack ideas helps you choose the right backpack for your photography.

Small photography bags

Small photography bags are perfect for times when you want to carry a camera along with other items. This type of photography bag should be somewhat padded, or should at lease have plenty of pockets in which to stash some spare batteries, cleaning cloths and memory cards.

During most of the times when you are carrying a single camera, you’ll probably be carrying other items. You may want to check out a padded camera sleeve. I’ve used this one , and I’ve put my camera in a regular backpack, and it works pretty well.

There are three types of small camera bags, in my opinion. There are small backpacks , which I’m focusing on in this article, and there are slings and messenger bags. There are a lot of camera sling and messenger bag options and I am going to mention a few, in case that fits what you’re looking for.

I’ll leave you with a pro tip here: a great way to feel more secure about taking around so much expensive photography gear in any type of photography bag is to get a set of Apple AirTags . AirTags let you track your ba’s location from the Find My app, on your phone. If your bag were to get stolen or lost, you’d be able to trace the location!

Camera slings

Slings are relatively useful because they are designed to be small. They carry your camera and aren’t designed to do much more. Because they typically sit on your back with one strap, they generally are nice and comfortable.

You can access your camera quickly by slinging the bag around to your front. I suppose that if the bag is small enough, you could also wear it on your front. The “front-style carry” is a great way to access your bag quickly if you need to change your lens or grab something small.

If you are looking for something to protect and stash away your camera as you go on a photography adventure, consider the options below.

Peak Design Everyday Sling v2 (3L)

The Peak Design Everyday Sling v2 has 3L, 6L and 10L options in a choice of three colors: Ash, Midnight and Black. If you’ve read my guide to the best camera accessories for photographers , you’re aware of how great I think the Peak Design Field Pouch is!

In general, Peak Design makes excellent products that are worth the price tag. The design for all of their products is well thought-out and the materials are excellent and durable. All of my Peak Design products still look new and have no major issues.

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The Everyday Sling is packable and foldable, and it’s great because it can be adjusted for right or left side carrying (great for lefties or ambidextrous people!). All three sizes are designed to be worn snugly, and the dividers inside the sling create surfaces that will cradle your lenses.

Note: only the 10L model fits a laptop (a 13” one, to be exact). The other two smaller sizes will not accommodate a laptop (they will fit an iPad, though!), but they will be exceedingly smaller, more compact and slightly lower in weight.

One more notable feature is the handy clamshell opening with a high-quality zipper, which will let you reach in and grab what you need among those dividers mentioned. Check out the product page to see more details.

Versatile and compact, the Peak Design Everyday Sling v2 (3L) adapts to your needs, whether you're capturing moments or running errands.

Moment Rugged Camera Sling

The Moment Rugged Camera Sling comes in smart 6L and 10L options. This sling can be configured to be modular, with its padded dividers, and is designed for cross-body comfort that will be easy on your back during a long day.

A notable feature is the Stability Strap, made for keeping the slight tight when taking photos, or even while hiking.

What fits inside? This sling is ideal for a mirrorless or micro four thirds camera setup - think any of the mirrorless cameras you’d find in my guide to the finding the best travel cameras . You could also consider fitting a mini drone setup, or a DSLR and an accessory.

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Does it fit a laptop? Not quite. You’ll find that an 11” tablet can fit in the Moment Rugged Camera Sling. This translates to pretty much any iPad with a Smart Keyboard.

A benefit of this bag is that its total weight is 1 lb 12 oz, and that’s including its waterproof NPX body material. See more here.

The Moment Rugged Camera Sling keeps your camera safe and within reach, ideal for photographers on the move.

Think Tank Photo TurnStyle 5V2.0 Sling Camera Bag

This simple and affordable sling camera bag will fit up to a “large” mirrorless camera and four lenses, all in its compact build!

You won’t get to fit a laptop in here, but for those who are into their tablets, you will indeed fit a 7.9” tablet (an iPad Air is perfect), and there’s a special padded zipper pocket at the back of the bag for that.

For me, the important feature of this sling is the number of lenses it’s designed to hold. For more of your camera accessories , there are more pockets and a 3” interior divider.

The Think Tank Photo TurnStyle 5V2.0 Sling Camera Bag provides rapid access to your gear, allowing you to seize every photo opportunity.

Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling (8L)

The Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling (8L) is naturally popular with fans of Peter McKinnon, who you’ll find in my guide to photographers on Youtube . Not only is Nomatic a super popular brand I’ve been following for a while, but anything under the McKinnon name is a great bet.

What I think is cool about this bag, especially for travelers, is that it can be worn three ways: over the shoulder, cross-body and on your back.

What does it fit? Typically, a DSLR camera (mirrorless or small, specifically) and one extra lens.

And FYI, if you’re interested in other Nomatic gear, you can check out our Nomatic review round up with many more of their products.

Another travel bonus is that it has a ‘trolley strap,’ which can be attached to your rolling luggage while you are in transit. This would be great for all those times you have to switch terminals at an airport during a layover !

The Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling (8L) is a compact, versatile solution for carrying and protecting your camera equipment on the move.

Lowepro Slingshot SL 250 AW III Camera Bag

The Lowepro Slingshot SL 250 AW III is a unique bag because it’s more narrow than it is wide, yet it is still long and vertical. This would be a good bag for Becca , who’s 5’2” and pretty narrow in her shoulders. It’s hard for her to find backpacks that don’t fall off her shoulders without having a cross-chest strap for tightening.

As for this sling bag, it’ll hold a DSLR or Mirrorless and three or four lenses, depending on the size of them. A few things I appreciate this bag are its oversized zipper pulls, which are great for quickly grabbing when trying to access your stuff fast (even if you’re wearing gloves in winter), and the weather-resistant polyurethane coating, which makes this bag a bit resistant to rain and humidity (for hot trips in summer).

The Lowepro Slingshot SL 250 AW III Camera Bag is a versatile companion for photographers on the go, providing quick access and robust protection.

Camera messenger bags

Camera messenger bags can be a bit of a challenge because they start getting boxy really fast. The boxier the bag, the more bounce it has while you are walking around — or at least that is what happens to me while wearing one.

I don’t really prefer messenger bags. They either hang too low and are uncomfortable and bounce, or they sit too high and the strap slides close to my neck. Some people love messenger-style bags (especially people who bike to get around), but I’ve never had good luck with them. That’s just me!

If I were to try any messenger bags, I would try any of these options.

Domke F-2 Original Shoulder Bag

While the look of this bag is more of a standard camera bag than a messenger bag you would’ve worn in college, its primary use is function. It can store 1-2 digital SLR cameras with 6-10 lenses and accessories, so that’s quite a bit, when compared with the last section on sling bags.

This one is for sure an example of a boxy bag, but it has more of a lower profile. A bonus is that it has a good number of pockets for stashing your accessories, and it has a removable hand carrying strap.

Experience the vintage charm of the Domke F-2 Original Shoulder Bag, designed to carry your camera gear with ease and style.

Think Tank Photo Retrospective 30 V2.0 Shoulder Bag

This down-to-earth shoulder bag for a camera can carry a combination of everything, from lenses to a 15” laptop. That’ll make editing on the go pretty easy. I like the removable carrying handle as well as the water bottle holder. A travel-friendly feature is a luggage pass-through flap for travel days.

Exude retro style with the Think Tank Photo Retrospective 30 V2.0 Shoulder Bag, offering spacious and comfortable gear storage.

Domke F-5XB RuggedWear Shoulder and Belt Bag

What stands out to me about this belt bag is that it can be used as a shoulder bag or a hip bag, depending on your preference. It’s definitely a bit on the rugged, rather than sleek side of design, so you might like it if you’re often in nature or if you like the natural palette of colors.

The most useful features for using this bag outside is its water resistance and gripper shoulder strap. It fits a DLSR or mirrorless camera, along with lenses and accessories like filters.

The Domke F-5XB RuggedWear Shoulder and Belt Bag provides a versatile solution for carrying your camera and accessories.

Small backpacks

Most small bags will fit small laptops or an iPad; however, you can usually fit plenty of photography equipment inside! A small camera bag is a good opportunity for having a bag that can be converted into a regular backpack when you’re not doing anything photography-related, like travel or sightseeing.

For example, I had the small Brevite camera backpack, and I was able to take out the photography insert and use the bag for something else like being out for a day in the city.

Vanguard Havana 48-Backpack

I owned this bag a few years ago, and we brought it to Mexico a few years back! What I like about it most is that it’s affordable, and well, this is because the materials are lower quality than other bags on the market. But, consider that it’s lightweight, which is nice, because you could even pack it in bigger luggage.

Because of the price point and the shorter lifespan (I’m not saying it’s going to break, but it’s not a lifetime warranty built-to-last product) means it won’t last forever. If you are rough with your photography gear, this might not be for you, but, if you are more of a hobby shooter, and want a light bag, this bag is a good first small photographer backpack to check out.

The Vanguard Havana 48-Backpack combines casual aesthetics with practical functionality, ideal for everyday use and travel.

Lowepro Flipside 200 AW II Camera Backpack

Lowepro is one of the older and trusted brands in photography bags, and this particular camera backpack is small and compact, which I think is great. It contains sternum straps and a waist belt, which helps distribute the weight. It also has a pocket for a 7” tablet, which is nice if you plan to take it as a personal item on a flight, for example, and watch stuff or do express-style edits on your iPad.

Experience versatility and protection with the Lowepro Flipside 200 AW II Camera Backpack, designed for secure and convenient access to your gear.

Moment MTW Backpack

This fan-favorite bag is popular in the photography world, and Moment is a great brand to start exploring into if you aren’t yet familiar! This backpack is what I’d call minimalist and attractive, as in, I’d wear it on a day-to-day basis, out with friends or family or as a daypack on a little trip.

It’s an “everyday” backpack that has tons of internal pockets for things you might need as a photographer. You’ll have no problem stashing away cables, memory cards, a laptop and a tablet. I have the 17L and I put my mirrorless camera in a padded camera wrap in the main compartment. I love this bag!

Here’s an example of the padded camera wrap from Domke.

Check out the 17L and the 21L version.

Make sure to check this out and see if it's for you!

Moment Everything Backpack

As the next iteration of Moment’s original photography backpack, the MTW, the Everything Backpack is a duo for most fans of the brand. Why does it have double use cases? Put quite simply, it’s both an everyday laptop backpack as well as a photographer’s favorite day bag.

I used this backpack on the go, out for a day in NYC shooting with Becca in Soho and the Village. It worked out best because it has a clip-in feature for Moment’s 4L camera insert cube.

A few of the standout features of the bag are the lightweight materials, the heaps of pockets in the laptop compartment, double zippers, a handy front pocket with a slide-in phone pocket and a great mesh back panel. To see a full list of my thoughts on this one, check out my review of the Everything Backpack .

Brevite Jumper Photo Backpack

I had an early version of the Brevite bag . I had the company’s first bag from their Kickstarter campaign! I think they’ve really upgraded it since I first got my hands on it several years ago, and it now looks more modern, with some nice features for photographers like ways it lets you carry a tripod, zippered side pocket for easy camera access and lastly, room to store a 16” laptop.

The camera insert on the bottom was perfect when I used this backpack because I always carry a camera and a lens, along with some other things that I wanted with me, for the day.

The Brevite Jumper Photo Backpack combines handy aesthetics with practical functionality for photographers on the move.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip (15L)

This backpack is a smaller version of the 20L Peak Design that I own, and I’ve had it for around five years. All-around, the Peak Design Everyday Backpacks are winners. They’re versatile. They look great.

They’re also unique-looking in a good way, because they’re expertly built to be weather-resistant. They have high-quality zippers (a very important feature for me). Overall, they’re an attractively constructed clamshell-style bag that also has side openings great for small tripods, lenses and camera bodies.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip (15L) is a versatile choice for the active commuter, seamlessly blending form and function.

Medium photography bags

A medium-sized photography bag gets you more of a standard-size photography bag. With these size of backpacks, you can usually customize the inside with your chosen cubes, and rearrange and reconfigure the inside to fit multiple situations and photo setups.

These bags should be able to hold a 70-200 f/2.8 lens and should likely fit your laptop.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack v2 (20L)

This backpack, of course, is my favorite long-term, durable and reliable medium-sized camera backpack. I’ve been using it and have been traveling with the first version of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack since my travels in 2016.

The 20L size is good for carrying 1-2 camera bodies and 1-2 lenses. I’ve had no issues fitting my camera stuff inside. I set my bag up using three compartments. I put my camera gear in the bottom two, and I leave the top compartment open for a jacket or for my Peak Design field pouch or tech kit.

The bag by itself is heavy and the materials are dense, and it gets especially heavy when you load it up. Keep this in mind. It is pretty comfortable, though, and is well-balanced and well-designed. If you need more capacity, check out the slightly larger 30L version .

Crafted with versatility and style in mind, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack v2 (20L) effortlessly adapts to your daily needs.

Hex Ranger Clamshell Black DSLR Backpack

I originally had my eye on this camera backpack for a few of its travel-friendly and outdoors-friendly highlights. Namely, these were the luggage handle pass-through which make it a good stacking backpack for using with a suitcase, the water bottle pocket (you know me by now, and this is a priority!) and a padded laptop sleeve that’ll keep laptops up to 15” safe inside this bag.

Hex is a cool brand I’ve been introduced to recently and I also have their small backpack and waist pack/belt bag. What I like about the Ranger DSLR backpack is the full ability to customize the interior with dividers and organize my camera gear like that. I also think the clamshell design is both unique and highly useful, as I can zip it open, see everything inside and take out exactly what I need. It comes with a rain cover, too.

WANDRD PRVKE 21L v2 Photo Bundle

WANDRD is a great brand that you’ll see in the photography world. They make handy products that the experts tend to really enjoy. This roll-top style backpack is nice when you’re not using this bag for photography. You can stuff things inside. We’ve used a similar bag for groceries.

This is a cool dual purpose daypack that fits a camera cube inside, letting you pack in a DSLR or mirrorless camera, tripod and two to four lenses. Like a backpack for hiking or traveling, it has a set of two waist straps that distribute the weight.

I’d say its minimalist style sets it apart, along with the weatherproof materials and coating. This bag comes in lots of different sizes, so look at the product variants. You can consider putting the different variants in each category if you want.

Enhance your photography journeys with the WANDRD PRVKE 21L v2 Photo Bundle, an innovative solution for professionals and hobbyists alike.

MindShift Gear BackLight 18L Backpack

This is a traditional camera bag from MindShift and with its clamshell opening, you can immediately see how it compartmentalizes camera accessories for a photographer on the go. You can fit a lot of things inside this bag, and to that end, it has a lot of support in the straps and the waist straps for if your gear gets heavy.

One thing to note is that this backpack is not practical for a hobby photographer who’s looking to take a camera out for the day. You’d use this backpack when you’re traveling and need a lot of cameras and lenses. The BackLight 18L is also useful for hiking up to a destination (maybe for night photography or a related specific use) when you are bringing a lot of options with you.

The MindShift Gear BackLight 18L Backpack provides comfortable, accessible storage for your photography equipment during your outdoor adventures.

Nomatic McKinnon Camera Backpack with 2 Small Cubes (25L)

We mentioned Nomatic in the beginning of this article, and the brand is still a fan favorite for photographers who want versatile and modern backpack options. The McKinnon Camera Backpack in 25L is expensive, but high quality that will last you for decades.

I really enjoy this bag because it’s both lightweight, super versatile and made from quality materials. When you buy it on Nomatic’s website , you can choose from a variety of options with what to fill the main cavity with.

I chose to use 2 small camera cubes to be able to use the bag for other things other than photography, like travel.

Even when you don’t fill the main cavity with camera lenses and other accessories, the top access has enough room for a camera body and 1 or 2 small lenses.

It’s Peter McKinnon’s bag, and it offers tons of options for custom-building the inside compartments. It’s meant to switch from photographic use to daypack use in no time. It also fits a laptop up to 16” so you can consider remote work while you’re out using this bag.

For travel, it also has a trolley strap so you can attach it to your luggage at the airport.

Nomatic McKinnon Camera Backpack

Showcase your photography expertise with the highly functional Nomatic McKinnon Camera Backpack, your ideal partner for photo adventures.

Large photography bags

A large photography backpack should have the disclaimer that you should know what you’re signing up for! Someone short, or with a narrow frame or someone who gets frequent back pain should think twice before getting a large backpack that will handle tons of heavy gear.

For everyone else though, the benefit of large photography backpacks is that you might need one if you’re going on a trip and need a lot of variation in your camera bodies and lenses. Here are the best large photography backpacks on the market right now for you to check out.

Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack with Medium Camera Cube Kit

I have this backpack exactly, and it is one of my favorite backpacks for travel as well. As mentioned above, Peak Design is a durable and trusty brand and that’s why I’ve invested into their products for my travel and photo needs.

This travel photography backpack comes with the medium camera cube. Peak Design sells two sizes of camera cubes. The small one can fit a body and about two lenses, whereas the medium one fits two cameras with grips and lenses.

The benefit of this 45L backpack is that you can also put in Peak Design’s other cubes, like the field pouch and the tech pouch .

The medium cube is modular inside, so it makes it nice to be able to customize and configure the bag interior how you want.

One thing to watch out for is the laptop sleeve is held together by a Velcro flap. Be careful about your laptop as you open the bag. I’ve never had it fall, but because the laptop is on the same part that you unzip, it’s something to be careful of.

This backpack has come with me on more trips than I can count and I wholeheartedly recommend its usability, versatility and durability.

Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack

Unleash your wanderlust with the Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack, designed for maximum packing flexibility and uncompromised comfort.

Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera and Laptop Backpack

This standard, yet nearly 25-L camera bag for travel, is from trusted brand Lowepro. I think its best features are that it provides targeted support for carrying one or even two DSLRs, along with space for up to eight flashes or lenses. The interior laptop pocket not only protects, but suspends, laptops up to 15” so that you can edit photos on the go.

Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II

Travel confidently with the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II, designed to protect and organize your gear in rugged conditions.

Think Tank Photo StreetWalker Pro V2.0 Backpack

The Think Tank Photo StreetWalker has a unique shape in that it’s long and narrow at first glance. Among its best features are that it weighs only 3.5 lbs when empty, which, for all its straps, interior padding, rain cover and dividers, is not too hefty for a camera backpack!

Note: while this backpack can hold a 10” tablet, it is not meant for toting a laptop, so keep that in mind during your decision-making!

Think Tank Photo StreetWalker Pro v2.0

Carry your camera gear in comfort and style with the Think Tank Photo StreetWalker Pro v2.0, designed for the urban photographer.

Think Tank Photo Airport Commuter Backpack

Think Tank is a trusted brand and this backpack does it all. It has features that I’d consider useful for travel, like an adjustable harness, removable wait belt, water bottle pocket (you know now that this is important to me!), handles on three sides and a top zipper pocket that’s good for storing a passport.

This backpack is built for efficiency, especially for those heading out on trips where photography is a priority.

Think Tank Photo Airport Commuter

Keep your gear safe and organized with the Think Tank Photo Airport Commuter, your best companion for the skies.

f-stop TILOPA 50L Expedition Backpack Bundle

You can’t miss this one: it’s bright orange. The f-stop TILOPA 50L backpack is a sizable photography backpack and its features are no joke. It will hold all your photo gear, protected by the rain cover it comes with, and the padded back panel/straps/belt make it a good photography bag to hike with.

f-stop has pretty much thought of everything during the creation of this bag, from the water-resistant outer to an integrated whistle (watch out for bears!).

f-stop TILOPA 50L Expedition

Carry everything you need for your journey with the f-stop TILOPA 50L Expedition, built for extended trips and challenging terrains.

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Live Life In High Resolution With These Camera Backpacks

The best camera bags for travel and hiking.

by Cora Harrison Updated on February 21, 2024

At Luxe Digital, we independently research, review, and recommend products we love and that we think you will love, too. Learn more about how we curate the best products for you .

Having the right photography gear doesn’t always equal award-winning pics—but it’s a step in the right direction . If you’re going to take your craft seriously, you need one of the best camera backpacks to accompany you on your photography missions. 

Are you a street photographer seeking to capture poignant moments in public places and instants of candid beauty? Or a wildlife photographer, trekking through the wilderness to shoot rare birds or endangered mammals? 

Or maybe you’re just playing around with a new camera, finding your groove, and honing your skills? 

Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, whether you like to photograph people, places, or exotic wildlife, you need a high-quality, functional, and durable camera backpack . 

The best photography backpacks keep all your valuable equipment safe and secure, protected from knocks, bumps, and bad weather. 

Here are the best camera backpacks available today—whether you need something small and inconspicuous to carry in crowded streets or something hardcore and hard-wearing for trekking up mountains.

The 13 best camera backpacks

Check our special camera backpack buyers’ guide after the list to see exactly what you should pay attention to before purchasing an everyday carry bag.

Lowepro ProTactic: Best overall camera backpack

 We’ve ranked the Lowepro ProTactic camera bag top for a whole host of reasons, from durability and comfort to features and aesthetics.

Tough EVA molding and padding functions act as protective armor all around the bag and ensure your equipment is safeguarded against any potential accidents. There’s also a built-in all-weather cover to protect against even the most unforgiving downpour, as well as dust, snow, and sand.

You can adapt the camera bag to suit your unique camera setup, re-positioning the flexible dividers depending on the configuration of your camera kit. There’s even room for a 15-inch laptop.

There’s also a slip-lock tripod cup where you can mount your tripod securely, plus a place to store your water bottle . Multiple access points mean you can grab what you need quickly without losing sight of your target. But the real genius lies in the waist belt that converts into a utility belt—the nifty feature you didn’t realize you were missing in your life. 

This backpack uses ActivZone technology to create support for your shoulder blades, lumbar, and waist, so you can carry your kit all day and barely even notice it’s on your back.

Best for: a rugged and high-performance camera backpack for every kind of photographer.

Nomatic McKinnon: Best high-end camera backpack

Nomatic is one of the best backpack brands. The Nomatic McKinnon was designed in collaboration with Peter McKinnon, a successful photographer and YouTube star whose videos help budding photographers refine their skills. 

McKinnon’sinput into the design of this camera backpack has made it one of the best high-end camera rucksacks available—whether you’re a jobbing photographer or eager amateur. 

You can customize the inside of the bag using the folding dividers, adapting the bag to suit the particular job in hand. If you’re going away on a weekend mission, expand the clothing section and throw in another outfit. Plus, you’ll never miss a critical moment again with those quick-access side pockets. 

For comfort, you’ve got waist and chest straps to distribute weight, and shoulder tension to help lighten the load, leaving you free to focus on capturing those perfect #nofilter shots. 

With the Nomatic McKinnon, you can set out to secure mind-blowing snaps—and feel assured that your camera gear is going to survive the outing, whatever happens.

Best for: top-quality construction and materials for those who want the very best .

Thule Aspect: Best value camera backpack

If you’re just starting out as a photographer and have yet to succeed in making your passion a source of income, you probably can’t justify spending a lot of cash on a camera backpack. 

Don’t stress. There are some fab budget-friendly camera backpacks out there to answer the prayers of money-conscious photographers everywhere. 

One great example is the Thule Aspect . This incredibly well-priced camera rucksack is one of the best DSLR backpacks out there. It even has space for drone gear. After all, drone photography has really taken off (excuse the pun) in the last few years and dramatically widens the scope for incredible snaps. 

Inside, the storage space is customizable and there’s space for a laptop and a tablet as well as any personal items like a wallet . On the exterior, you’ve got a side panel to store your tripod and quick-access side pockets where you can store things like snacks. Because nothing burns calories like snapping soon-to-go-viral photos. 

Even the hip-belt has pockets. These are ideal for storing small accessories such as lens cleaning wipes or memory cards. 

All this, packed into a comfortable carry set-up with padded shoulder straps and an air mesh back panel for breathability. 

Best for: a good quality camera backpack with a reasonable price-tag.

Beschoi DSLR Camera Backpack: Best carry-on camera backpack for travel

Travel photographers know that the number one rule of travelling with a camera is to never ever check in your gear. That way lies disaster. 

Always carry your equipment with you as cabin baggage. The Beschoi DSLR carry-on camera bag has been designed for superior practicality when you hit the road. Inside, you’ve got space for up to two DSLR cameras, six lenses, a flash, a small and lightweight tripod, and even a laptop up to 13.3 inches. The exterior also has zipper pockets for storing lenses and other accessories. 

It’s water-proof and has reinforced stitching at all major stress points for long-lasting durability. Most importantly, it comes equipped with anti-theft zippers, an essential for travel—as is, of course, a pilot watch . 

One of the best travel camera backpacks, this rucksack has been designed with a commitment to comfort. Wide and adjustable shoulder straps with breathable air-mesh prevent any undue discomfort when you’re on the move. Just add a pair of high-quality walking shoes or sneakers and you’re off. 

Best for: frequent flyers who want to capture some Nat-Geo-worthy travel pics.

Altura Sling Bag: Best small camera bag

You’re out and about in the city, eyes peeled, waiting for the elements to align so you can get that perfect shot. You need something lightweight and discreet so you can dash nimbly between the traffic and crowds to pick out that ideal set-up. 

The Altura sling backpack is hands down the bag for the job if you’re trying to keep a low profile. It has a rapid access side opening with a zip so you can quickly grab your camera when you stumble across a beautiful scene. You can also swing the bag onto your front for extra security in busy places.

Inside, you’ve got padded dividers that you can adjust to hold your equipment neatly and snugly. You can also fit extra lenses or a flash unit. And, despite the compact size of this bag, there’s even a tripod or monopod holder. 

This nifty little camera bag is the ideal piece of gear to accompany you on your daily escapades. Just add some wireless headphones and you’re good to go. 

Best for: street photographers wanted something inconspicuous and lightweight.

USA Gear: Best camera and laptop bag

Some photographers like to edit the same day that they take their pics. Wedding photographers, in particular, often offer a same-day editing service for photos. Wouldn’t it be handy, in that case, to have somewhere safe to store your laptop? This camera backpack by USA Gear is ideal. 

Inside, you’ve got customizable storage space, including room for your laptop, phone, and charger. Outside, the materials are hard-wearing and tough. The reinforced metal zippers and soft rubber pullers are extra long-lasting. 

If you’re heading off on a photography expedition, whether it’s to snap the crowds at a festival or into the wilderness to capture rare images of wildlife, then you need a secure way to transport your laptop. This bag does the job perfectly—all at a price that’s more than reasonable. 

One of our favorite features? You can tuck away any unnecessary straps into the luggage handle slot. Because there’s nothing worse than being on public transport and for your strap to flick some unsuspecting passenger in the eye. 

Best for: those who like to edit on the road.

Lowepro RidgeLine Pro: Best modern design

If you’re rocking up to shoot at some cool event—a concert, party, or VIP wedding—you need to look the part. The Lowepro RidgeLine Pro will ensure you make exactly the right impression. It’s the ideal piece of gear for the style-conscious photographer. 

The exterior has been thoughtfully designed to look more streamlined and sleek—less bulky and clunky than your standard camera backpack. It’s not just aesthetics, though. The air-mesh back panel is padded and breathable to provide maximum comfort no matter how long you’re on the job. 

A water-repellent coating protects your gear from standard weather conditions. And when things get more intense, you’ve got an all-weather AW Cover with heat-sealed seams to ensure your gear survives even the most brutal of nature’s forces. 

Inside, you’ve got a CradleFit compartment to protect your laptop and tablet. We definitely like the sound of nestling our most valuable possession in a cradle. 

Need to travel? The backpack has a built-in trolley handle for simple carrying when paired with a rolling bag. 

Best for: innovative materials and a modern aesthetic.

Vanguard Alta Sky: Best camera backpack for hiking

If you need to head off the beaten trail to achieve the winning shot, then you’ll want a bag like Vanguard’s Alta Sky 51D that’s not going to fail you at the first sight of rain. 

As well as all the standard camera backpack features, you’ve also got side pockets to hold large water bottles so you can stay hydrated during your outdoor missions. Then there’s the total coverage rain cover so you can face dark clouds without fear. 

Wildlife doesn’t wait for you to get ready. Serendipity plays a major role in spectacular nature photos. Luckily, this camera bag has multiple access points, both at the back, side, and top, so you can always be action-ready. 

Adventurer photographers looking to photograph action from an aerial vantage point will be grateful for the ability to store their drones inside this backpack. Larger drones can even be attached externally, as can a tripod. 

This bag does all the leg work, leaving you to focus on getting the most memorable shot, whether it’s eagles soaring across a blue sky, BMX bikers racing down a mountainside, or a forest emerging from the fog. 

Best for: those seeking an all-weather, all-purpose, all-terrain camera bag.

Neewer: Most lightweight camera backpack

To get a truly magical photograph, you need to be on the move, wandering and exploring, creating opportunities for those wonderful chance encounters to arise. 

This backpack by Neewer has been city-optimized. First up, it’s waterproof, so even the greyest of days won’t put you off completing your mission. The shoulder straps are padded for additional comfort. On the outside, you can secure a tripod to get those epic time-lapses. 

Inside, there’s ample space to fit everything from DSLRs and mirrorless cameras to a GoPro, flash units, radio triggers, batteries, chargers, and cables. All without being at all bulky, making it the ideal lightweight yet hard-wearing backpack to transport your camera and accessories around town. 

This camera backpack puts up fierce competition as one of the best lightweight camera bags out there. And, as if you needed extra convincing, all the compartments can be removed, and you can use it as a normal EDC backpack whenever you fancy. 

Best for: photographers on the move who need something light and easy to carry.

Wandrd Hexad: Most rugged camera duffel bag

If you’re happiest when you’ve got your entire studio with you, then Wandrd’s Hexad is the bag for you. 

This is not like any duffel bag you’ve met before. It’s heavy-duty and rugged, ready to face the most challenging of photo expeditions. 

Expertly marrying capacity with comfort, it’s a pretty big bag at 45 liters. But it still counts as carry-on luggage—ideal if you fly a lot. And it’s also comfortable to transport around, whether as a standard hold-all or as a backpack.

Inside, you’ve got a padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined pocket for your mobile phone. There’s an organization pocket on the top that includes a key hook so you don’t lose track of the essentials. 

The bag has been created from weather-resistant materials with spill-proof pockets and also has an RFID secure passport pocket. So whether it’s torrential rain or identity theft, that’s two disasters that this bag has already averted. 

This camera carry-all sorts out all the practicalities, leaving you free to focus on creative compositions, finding a fresh perspective, and capturing beautiful moments.

Best for: travel photographers heading out on an expedition.

CADeN: Best waterproof camera backpack

A moody and stormy landscape might look good once it’s framed and on the wall, but when you’re out there shooting, it’s less about the beauty of the moment than your ability to keep your equipment safe and dry. 

Which is where the CADeN Camera Backpack steps in. This camera rucksack is the best waterproof camera backpack on our list. It’s made of high-density waterproof 900D polyester nylon with long-lasting and rust-resistant alloy zippers. So you can set up camp in the midst of a downpour while other photographers are quaking in their boots. 

It’s also one of the bigger bags out there with ample room for a camera body, four lenses, a flash, tablet, any other accessories, such as sunglasses , a tripod attached to the exterior, and water bottles in the elastic mesh bags. A DJI drone will also fit inside. 

Even if your photography method of choice is a drive-by shooting—preferably from the window of a Bugatti —then investing in a good waterproof camera is still wise. Who knows when rain might strike, and when you’ve spent that much on gear, it’s not a risk worth taking. 

Best for: nature photographers seeking that stormy landscape shot.

AmazonBasics Large DSLR Camera Bag: Best budget

Before the art world cotton on to your undeniable talent as a photographer, you probably don’t want to spend thousands on a camera backpack. Fortunately, there are a few great budget camera bags out there, including this great DSLR Bag by AmazonBasics . 

Many photographers prefer messenger-style bags because they allow for easy access to gear and are often simpler and more comfortable to carry—either over one shoulder or across your body. 

Inside, there’s enough space for a DSLR body, accessories such as memory cards and batteries, and up to three lenses, including your favorite fish-eye or a macro lens for those arty flower pics.

The dividers can be customized according to your chosen camera set-up, and there are also straps on the outside for attaching a tripod. Finally, there’s a slot for your tablet so you can edit on the go. 

For a very minimal outlay, this camera bag will help you on your quest to get the money shot. 

Best for: photographers who’d rather spend money on the camera than the bag.

Chrome Niko F-Stop: Most expensive camera backpack

As far as first impressions go, the Chrome Niko F-Stop Pack certainly makes an impact. It’s easily one of the most stylish camera backpacks out there, with a streamlined shape that resembles a cool skateboard rucksack. 

Indeed, the bag has an exterior strap for holding a skateboard. But even if your photography is less about edgy shots of urban sports and more about couples kissing against a spectacular vista, then this could be the bag for you. 

This is a backpack that’s been built for adventure, made from ultra-tough 1050D Ballistic nylon with a 400D tarp interior. And if you’re hauling your camera gear a distance greater than a mile, you’ll appreciate the EVA foam back panel—comfortable and breathable. 

A price like that is the ultimate guarantee of quality so you can hike up a mountain for the perfect golden hour shot knowing that the bag will make it to the summit with you. 

Oh, and when you’re racing the clock in the great outdoors, make sure to have a good tactical watch on your wrist too. 

Best for: adventurous and style-conscious photographers.

Buyers guide: what to look for when buying a camera backpack

When buying a camera backpack, there are a few things to consider and look for, plus different options on the market to suit different needs. 

Location and subject

What kind of subject and environment do you most frequently shoot? Are you a street photographer or a wildlife photographer? Or are you a casual or amateur photographer, taking photos mostly on holiday? 

In which case, do you really need a camera backpack? Could a messenger or sling bag be enough? These have the advantage of looking stylish and being fairly inconspicuous. 

Or what about a more versatile camera pack—one that can also double as a standard everyday carry backpack when you’re not playing photographer? 

Nature photographers will require a very different camera backpack to those snapping fashion models in a studio. The former will require something waterproof, hardwearing, and with enough room for telephoto lenses and tripods. The latter may need something that offers security and safety on public transport. 

Then there are travel photographers who might want something light and discreet to avoid unwanted attention. Rapid access pockets are important to allow you to capture fleeting moments. 

A photojournalist on assignment for a whole month will also need something that can also transport their personal gear—and maybe a bag that passes as carry-on luggage. 

Equipment and gear

Just as important is the equipment you intend to use. Do you typically require just a mirrorless camera and a few lenses? Then you will only need a small camera backpack. If you need to transport multiple DSLR bodies and a drone, you’ll need something much bigger. 

You need a camera backpack that can hold the weight of all your equipment. Size-wise, most camera backpacks are between 30 and 40 liters, but you may find that 20 liters is enough.

Price and features

Camera backpacks can range from $30 to $300, so you can easily find one to suit your budget. The more expensive camera bags typically have more features and are made of higher-quality materials. 

Extra compartments and pockets provide elevated functionality. As for comfort, does it have padding, secondary straps, or a contoured back to avoid stress on your neck and shoulders? 

Pay attention to the following:

• Tripod holder: you will need some method to secure your tripod to the outside, such as bungee loops or straps with clips. Or you could invest in a separate tripod bag if you require additional protection. 
• Quick access: this is an especially important feature for street photographers. When you see an opportunity, you need to capture it there and then. You don’t want to be rummaging around in a massive bag.
• Hip belt: this distributes the weight of all your equipment and lessens the load. 
• Waterproofing: you want non-porous materials like ballistic nylon. You should also look for sealing around the zippers. Some camera backpacks also feature waterproof rain covers. 

When packing your camera backpack, here’s a tip. Store your heaviest gear at the bottom of the pack. This maintains a low center of gravity so the bag won’t topple over when you set it down. 

Camera backpacks: Frequently asked questions

The best camera backpack is the Lowepro ProTactic backpack . This camera rucksack ticks all the boxes when it comes to comfort, features, and durability. It will protect all your important gear and has been designed to avoid stress on your shoulders and back.

When flying with your camera, you’ll want to put it in your cabin baggage, where it will be safe and secure. Take everything apart before flying, including unscrewing all caps and lenses. Keep everything separated and securely packed, so it doesn’t rattle around and avoid scratches. Silica gel packs can prevent moisture.

Choosing a camera bag will depend on your style of photography. A wildlife photographer will require a different camera backpack from a street photographer. It will also depend on how much equipment you usually carry and what your budget is. We have selected the best camera backpacks to suit a range of photography needs, from the best budget offering to the best waterproof camera rucksack.

What you keep in your camera bag will depend on what you plan to shoot, but there are a few basics that every professional and amateur photographer needs. These include spare batteries and memory cards, a microfibre cloth to clean your lenses, a tripod, a flash, and perhaps a flash bouncer. A rain cover, or at least a plastic bag, is another good idea.

About the author

Cora Harrison

Fashion & watches editor.

A graduate of the University of Oxford, UK, with first-class degree in French language and literature, Cora is the eloquent editor par excellence . At Luxe Digital, Cora writes the crème de la crème of stories about women’s fashion , jewelry , and watches for the world’s most discerning readers. When she’s not crafting articles about how to elevate the everyday, you’ll find Cora at home in Scotland, experimenting in the kitchen, brewing up some kombucha perhaps, or playing on the beach with her partner and son.

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9 Best Camera Backpacks for Your Photographic Adventures

High-quality storage and protection for your camera equipment are important. As photographers, we spend lots of money on our gear, so it makes sense to store it properly and keep it safe while in the field. Enter the camera backpack!

The best camera backpacks typically have a dual purpose. They allow you to keep your camera gear safe, and they offer a convenient way to carry equipment while on your photographic adventures. These versatile products usually feature dedicated compartments for cameras and lenses, and they also have additional space for traveling essentials. If this sounds like something that could work for you, we share our nine favorite camera backpacks below.

The Best Camera Backpacks in 2024:

When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. We evaluate products independently . Commissions do not affect our evaluations. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

1. BAGSMART Anniston Camera Backpack

The BAGSMART Anniston Camera Backpack has space for a 15” laptop, giving you the flexibility to take photos and edit on the go.

If you want a stylish product that looks great but is also very functional, the BAGSMART Anniston Camera Backpack is a solid choice. The backpack is made from canvas material and is available in five different stylish colors. It is certainly one of the better-looking designs on the market.

This backpack features a large central storage compartment with adjustable dividers. You can comfortably fit a full-frame DSLR camera together with four lenses. The main compartment pocket also has a sleeve for camera accessories like cables and spare batteries.

We also like that there is a separate laptop compartment. As a result, you can comfortably pack a laptop up to 15” in size along with your camera, which means you can edit your photos on the go.

To make sure you have everything you need when you travel, there are two sizeable side pockets that can hold a water bottle, a tripod, and more.

2. CADeN D6 Generation III Camera Backpack

The CADeN D6 Generation III Camera Backpack has reinforced shoulder straps to reduce the strain on your body during long outings.

For those on a budget, the CADeN D6 Generation III Camera Backpack is one of the cheapest options available. If you regularly travel outdoors and are often battling against poor weather, the backpack’s waterproof materials will protect your valuable gear.

In the main compartment, you can store one large camera, four lenses, and plenty of photography accessories. We also like that you can adjust the dividers for different equipment configurations. The dividers are made from fabric and have Velcro edges, which means you can adjust your backpack organization quickly.

Despite the low price, this CADeN product is still durable. For example, the zippers are manufactured with alloy metals and are incredibly strong.

Also, the shoulder straps are made from reinforced materials and offer superb support, so when you embark on those long hiking trips, you’ll remain completely comfortable. Regardless of the look you like, you’re bound to be satisfied; the backpack is available in quite a few colors.

3. Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III

The Fastpack BP 250 AW III is made from durable fabric that offers impact resistance and is waterproof.

The Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III is the perfect option for those longer photography trips where you need to take all your expensive gear with you to get the best shots. It offers excellent protection due to the 300D ripstop fabric, so your lenses and accessories should never get wet or damp.

If you do happen to drop the bag, your gear shouldn’t sustain any damage due to the robust materials. If you’re working in poor weather and you only want to get your camera out when you’re ready to take photos, the side-access zip will make a huge difference. You can simply swing the backpack around to your side and instantly grab your camera.

So you can keep an organized kit, there are two main compartments. These let you separate things like lenses and accessories while keeping your camera more accessible at the bottom. And the storage space is large enough to fit a camera drone and a 13″ laptop in addition to your primary photographic equipment.

4. Altura Photo YZ0286 Shoulder Bag

If you only need to carry a camera and a couple of lenses, this shoulder bag is just the right size.

If you don’t need a full camera backpack and instead prefer something smaller and more convenient, the Altura Photo YZ0286 Shoulder Bag is a top option. It’s the perfect accessory for those days when you’re venturing out on shorter photography adventures or when you know you only require one or two lenses.

The bag features a universal design so you can store any type of camera inside, including Nikon, Canon, and Sony mirrorless models . Your camera should sit in the main compartment with a lens attached, and you can also fit a second lens in the adjacent compartment.

The bag also gives you ample space to take your batteries, SD cards, and lens filters. It is constructed from durable polyester, so it’ll keep your gear safe. The security factor is enhanced by reinforced stitching and robust zips. When you’re ready to head out, you can simply sling the bag over your shoulder (and the strap is adjustable to suit your height).

5. BPAULL BL-1301 Sling Backpack

The one-shoulder design of this backpack means you’ll never miss a photo opportunity.

The BPAULL BL-1301 Sling Backpack is a smaller product that is perfect for quick trips where you don’t need a huge array of equipment. It also looks great and is available in two styles: plain black and camouflage.

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You can easily fit a DSLR camera together with several lenses in the main compartment. The backpack also has pockets and sleeves for smaller items like memory cards, cables, and batteries. There is even a handy zipped pocket on the side that can hold a large smartphone.

The one-shoulder design also means you can quickly access your equipment by simply swinging the bag around from your back to your chest. We also like the straps underneath the backpack that are designed to hold a travel tripod.

6. MOSISO Camera Backpack

The hard-shell design of the MOSISO Camera Backpack is ideal if you have expensive equipment that needs protecting.

The MOSISO Camera Backpack may not be the most stylish model on the market, but it is highly functional. This medium-sized backpack has an excellent main compartment that can store all the gear you could ever need. You can easily fit a full-frame DSLR camera together with four lenses and quite a few accessories.

The lid of the main compartment also has two sleeves: a mesh sleeve for smaller items and a large sleeve for a tablet. The internal compartment has padded dividers that can be removed and adjusted to suit your requirements. This means you can easily set up the backpack for different photography trips depending on the number of lenses (or even cameras) you need.

This MOSISO product also has great padding. For instance, it has an elastic cushion to support your back and shoulders. The hard-shell front is also completely waterproof, so your gear should never get wet, even in a downpour.

7. Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II is large enough to store all your gear; that way, it’s ready to go for those unexpected photography trips.

If you want a camera backpack that offers outstanding flexibility, the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II is an amazing option. It gives you so much space in the main compartment that you can easily fit a main camera with four or five lenses plus accessories.

Instead of constantly swapping lenses and changing your bag configuration, you could simply keep everything in this bag so that it’s ready to go at a moment’s notice. Of course, you do have the option to change the dividers inside, and you will find them quick to move thanks to the Velcro attachments. We like that the backpack is wide enough to fit a larger telephoto lens on its own or attached to your camera.

If you’re environmentally conscious, you’ll be pleased to know that this backpack is made from 64% recycled materials. And even though it’s a larger backpack, you’ll have quick access due to the four-point strap system – you can sling it around to your front and open the side zip quickly.

Finally, on the rear of the straps, you’ll find numerous clips and compartments so you can conveniently hang various items, including a water bottle and even a tripod.

8. TARION TB-S Camera Backpack

The padded and adjustable shoulder straps of the TARION TB-S Camera Backpack make it a perfect choice for longer journeys.

If you want a flexible, compact backpack that won’t break the bank, the TARION TB-S Camera Backpack is one of the best options available. The build quality is solid, so the bag should withstand the rigors of your outdoor photography adventures, yet the price is impressively low.

The backpack gives you fantastic organization capabilities as it’s split into plenty of handy dividers. You can store your camera and up to six lenses, and there’s even a 13″ laptop sleeve.

We like the straightforward access; you can easily open the main compartment to pull out your camera or change lenses while on the move. And the included rain cover is perfect for those days when rough weather starts to roll in but you don’t have time to find shelter.

If you have to carry the backpack for a long time, you’ll find the padded shoulder straps a great comfort. They shouldn’t dig into your skin, and the length can easily be adjusted to suit your height. Don’t worry if you like to use a tripod or a monopod – there are some handy tripod straps at the bottom so you can hang your camera support freely underneath the backpack.

9. Manfrotto Advanced 2 Gear Backpack M

This Manfrotto backpack looks great and will last for years thanks to the high-quality materials.

Manfrotto specializes in tripods, but the company also offers a great range of backpacks, including the Manfrotto Advanced 2 Gear Backpack M .

This premium camera backpack looks fantastic and is made from durable materials. Additionally, the brushed fabric finish means it is comfortable and soft to the touch (unlike some products that can be abrasive).

The backpack can comfortably hold a full-frame DSLR camera and up to five lenses. There is also space for a 15″ laptop as well as other accessories. Alternatively, if you have a drone for still photography, you could fit it inside with the legs folded.

The external fabric is water-repellent, and there is also a detachable waterproof rain cover. We also like the padded straps, which offer excellent comfort and can be freely adjusted.

Because the bag is reasonably large, nothing is a tight squeeze and you can move your items around comfortably. Don’t worry about safety, either – the zippers are durable and will keep your gear protected. It’s not exactly a budget product, but if you’re looking for a high-quality option, the Manfrotto Advanced 2 is a stellar choice.

How to Pick the Perfect Camera Backpack: Buying Guide

As you can see, the top camera backpacks come in many shapes and styles. You should now have a good idea of the different types of camera backpacks available. But how do you choose the right one for your needs? To help make your choice easier, we have compiled a simple buying guide discussing the different features worth considering.

Storage Capacity

When buying a camera backpack, it’s important to evaluate what each model is capable of storing. The carrying capacity of camera backpacks varies greatly. Some can hold two DSLR cameras plus a variety of lenses, and others may only be able to hold a single camera and a couple of lenses.

The capacity you require depends on the equipment you have and what you plan to take with you when you use the backpack.

Waterproofing and Protection

One of the main uses of a backpack is to protect your equipment. It should therefore be made from durable materials. Also, you ideally need a waterproof camera bag if you intend to take it outdoors in rough weather conditions.

Bear in mind that there are different levels of waterproofing. Some backpacks can withstand any amount of water, whereas other backpacks may only be able to withstand a light rain shower. Make sure you also check for additional features, like a separate rain cover that can be pulled over the backpack for extra protection.

Other Storage and Compartments

In addition to space for your cameras and lenses, what other storage does the backpack have? Ideally, a backpack should have a selection of compartments and pockets so you can store various accessories, including SD cards, cables, filters, and spare batteries.

Some of the most useful camera backpacks have separate spaces for travel items. If you’re hiking, you may want to carry spare clothes, food, and a water bottle. You can also find backpacks that have dedicated sleeves for your photo editing laptop .

The price is obviously an important factor, too. Fortunately, you have plenty of options!

There is a great range of budget camera backpacks , many of which you can grab for less than $50. Alternatively, you can spend hundreds of dollars on larger backpacks with lots more storage space and features.

You should also look at how easy the backpack is to carry and wear. If you intend to take it with you on long journeys or outdoor expeditions, it needs to be comfortable. The weight of the backpack can affect this; if the bag is heavy, it may put unnecessary strain on your shoulders and back.

Also, be sure to check the straps. Ideally, they should have padding to prevent shoulder pain, and they should also be adjustable. Some backpacks have a waist strap to provide extra support and remove some of the strain from your back.

Ease of Access

Finally, consider how easy each backpack makes it to access your gear. Different camera backpacks have different main access points. Some have a top zip, for example, whereas others have a side opening so you can access your camera and lenses while walking.

Think about how you intend to use the backpack and if you will even need quick access. You can then look for a specific access style and a main compartment zip design.

Pick a Backpack and Get Shooting!

Hopefully, you’re ready to select a camera backpack! For shorter trips where you only need a few items, smaller products like the Altura Photo YZ0286 Shoulder Bag and the BPAULL BL-1301 Sling Backpack are great choices.

However, for those long photography trips or weekend adventures, larger options like the BAGSMART Anniston Camera Backpack , the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III , and the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II will allow you to store all your lenses and accessories plus some travel essentials.

Best Camera Backpacks FAQ

Do you really need a camera backpack.

That depends on your situation. If you rarely travel and you generally do studio photography, then maybe not. However, if you’re always on the road and take your camera to different locations, a backpack is essential!

Are all camera backpacks waterproof?

No. It is important to check the backpack specifications, which will specifically state if the exterior material is waterproof.

Are camera backpacks only for cameras?

Definitely not! The best bags include space for accessories, laptops, and even clothing.

Disclosure/Disclaimer : As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Certain content was provided "as is" from Amazon and is subject to change or removal at any time. Product prices and availability: Amazon prices are updated daily or are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

A seasoned content creator at PhotoWorkout, Paul merges his love for traveling and photography to craft insightful articles. With a solid grasp of Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, he enjoys testing new photo software, apps, and gear. His background in web development further enriches his photography endeavors. Connect with him on LinkedIn .

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Endurax Camera Backpack Large DSLR/SLR Mirrorless Photography Camera Bag Extra Large Travel Hiking with 15.6 Laptop Compartment Waterproof Rain Cover

Purchase options and add-ons.

• Extra large Capacity with Dual Compartment - Endurax camera backpack is large enough to fit two pro-sized mirrorless cameras, 6-8 lenses, 2-3 flashes and tons of small pockets to pack photography equipment. Tablet & 15.6 in laptop compartment included.
• Photography Quick Acess Camera – Quick Acess your valuable camera from the waist bag, PVA armored front panel for storing camera accessories and other delicate photography gears, multiple compartments for storing many odds and ends to keep you organized, flip-out tripod holder for full size tripod, camera buckles to hang video camera on shoulder straps to avoid neck pain.
• Multifunction & Weight Distribute – With customizable insert divider pad, large DSLR backpack can fit camera with lens attached max.18 inch long, and can be used for trekking, hiking, outdoor as a professional laptop camera backpack, waist strap help to distribute weight add much comfort.
• Shoot & Travel Comfortably - Provide great carrying comfort with contoured shoulder straps, sternum strap, ventilate back padding and torso-length adjustment to let you travel comfortably at any weight load.
• Super value & Buy with confidence - (1 DSLR + 1 lens) shoulder / waist camera bag, rain cover included. 100% satisfaction guarantee, 30 days free of return, 1 year warranty.

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Product Description

Endurax professional photography large camera bag backpack.

Place your Long Lens

With the removable divider between the top and bottom compartment, you can remove the divider to place your long lens such as Tamron 600 mm zoom lens. Besides, there are many removable divider pads, you can adjust them to accommodate your different sizes lenses.

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Product information, warranty & support, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, storage space, comfort, and appearance of the backpack. For example, they mention it's well constructed, has many pockets, and is comfortable enough to carry on your back. Some appreciate the value, and versatility of the product. That said, opinions are mixed on the fit.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the backpack. They mention it's well-constructed, holds up well, and the stitching is durable. The padding on the straps, back, and waist belt is in near. The main strap handles are strong enough to easily lift it, and it'll hold 20 pounds. Overall, customers are satisfied with the quality and functionality of the product.

"...Materials sturdy and reliableAdjustability: Robust , although no documentation is provided to help fine-tune the adjustments...." Read more

"...Dividers inside the bag are good quality and protect my gear well , and I haven't had any issues with moisture making it inside the bag either when..." Read more

"...All this and still some room to spare. Well constructed and will not disappoint." Read more

"...The pull-tabs are very sturdy and will stand up to intense and frequent use . It has a top compartment with a hard cover..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the storage space provided by the backpack. They mention that the main compartment is large enough to carry 2 bodies and battery grips, it has many pockets, and storage inside of storage. The hip-hugging strap is great for holding change, small cables, and minimalist items. The backpack is well-thought-out and durable, with a large capacity that can carry a ton of camera gear. The compartments are customizable and the bag is large, making it easy to fit everything they need.

"...The other small pockets on the hip-hugging strap are great for holding change , small cables, or minimalist wallets with a bit of effort...." Read more

"...Overall I'm very happy with it, and with my ability to fit everything I want to bring with (which is almost certainly far more than I need to bring)..." Read more

"...The added bonus to that is that you can use the space inside the pack (that you free up by removing the day-pack) for storing a snack and maybe a..." Read more

"...I also like that the camera and lenses are able to be properly stored at the top of the pack...." Read more

Customers like the comfort of the backpack. For example, they say the adjustments are good, the back supporting straps are more comfortable, and the straps feel nice. They also say the bag is very balanced and feels light with all the gear. Customers also appreciate the zippers that glide easily and are ergonomic to operate. They like the extra padded shoulder straps for comfort.

"...Zippers glide easily and are ergonomic to operate thanks to the green silicon loops which have great visibility and add to the backpack's clean,..." Read more

"...The shoulder and waist straps are wide, soft , and comfortable, despite the heavy weight...." Read more

"I gave this its first real workout last month. The pack is comfortable , sturdy, and holds everything I need to take with me...." Read more

"...It looks more like a hiking bag 😅 but it feels good , it’s also adjustable, plenty of pockets, quality is great, the zippers feel good..." Read more

Customers like the appearance of the backpack. They say it has a great design, is attractive, and well thought out. Some customers also mention that the bag looks and feels brand new. Overall, customers are satisfied with the appearance and functionality of the product.

"...which have great visibility and add to the backpack's clean, modern aesthetic ...." Read more

"...The top is designed well , and it is pretty easy to get the camera in and out...." Read more

"...This thing is laid out perfect . If you have Godox/Evolv you can fit two AD600s in the bottom compartment...." Read more

"...Fully loaded I’m carrying 50 lbs in this bag and it still looks and feels brand new like I just got it. Also, can’t beat the price...." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the backpack. They mention it holds so much gear and is well worth the price.

"...Price: Absolutely worth it . Thoroughly recommended." Read more

"...Well, quite simply put, this pack is very low in price in comparison to most professional photo backpacks, which can easily cost several hundred..." Read more

"...Can't think of any bad options with this bag. worth the cost and you can take everything you need!" Read more

"...It also seems sturdy and the price is more friendly than a lot of other spacious camera backpacks...." Read more

Customers find the backpack versatile and perfect for different uses. They say it's great for any application where carrying large or heavy loads is required. The side pouches and straps work well for carrying larger items like full size tripods. Overall, customers are satisfied with the quality and functionality of the product.

"...The side pouches and straps work well for carrying larger items like full size tripods, monopods, and even my travel stool..." Read more

"If you're looking for a versatile , large pack to lug a lot of your gear into the woods or through an airport, this may be the pack for you...." Read more

"...of for a photoshoot and don't have to lug this around too far, it works really well ." Read more

"... This bag has endless possibilities and I look forward to finally being able to have all of my accessories in one place...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the fit of the backpack. Some mention that it's small in the middle, but the waist strap fits. The adjustment straps allow a form fit when hiking, and the various pockets. It can easily fit multiple pro DSLR bodies and 6-8 lenses depending on how you use each compartment. However, others say that it’s not big enough for an iPad, the tripod holders on both sides are pretty small, and that the carry handle on top is too small and flimsy.

"...The Rain Cover is easy to fit over the backpack even when it's stuffed full, yet it holds securely, and fits perfectly into the smallest front pocket..." Read more

"...for this pack, if you want to consider it a con, is that there is so much space that you can over-pack with too much photo gear and really bog..." Read more

"...The shoulder and waist straps are wide , soft, and comfortable, despite the heavy weight...." Read more

"...you need for a small portable photo studio. It even comes with a smaller , separate, and removable camera bag...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the straps of the backpack. They mention that the stitching that holds the strap came loose, the strap which goes around their hips snapped, and they had to adjust the shoulder straps often. The tie down straps also move so you can't get it extra tight. The straps are very short and the lack of straps on the lower opening. Some feel that the bag straps lacked both width and strength to distribute the load over a larger area.

"...I did feel that the bag straps lacked both width , to distribute the load over a broader area, and sufficient padding...." Read more

"...Also, I had to adjust the shoulder straps often , which might just have been because of how much weight was in it, but the adjustments would slip..." Read more

"This backpack is a beast and comes with all sorts of pockets, dividers, straps , etc. you need for a small portable photo studio...." Read more

"...be a little farther apart, and despite torso adjustment, the hip belt sits too high and is useless to me...." Read more

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Photography in Moscow - personal experience - Moscow Forum

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Photography in Moscow - personal experience

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I was spending a lot of time taking pictures using D300 camera with a large lense (24-70 2.8) I had absolutely no issues using it with a tripod or without.

One caviat to keep in mind. When going inside Kremlin you cannot bring any large bags (even my fairly small photo bagpack was too big). Likely I was wearing cargo pans with large pockets. Going through a security check there were absolutly no questions (other than jokes) when I started pulling 4 lenses and a flash from my pockets, and carring a tripod.

In short - there are absolutely no issues with photography in Moscow, Red Square, or Kremlin.

Thank You for your report , zhenya, now I know what it is – cargo pants for my September Kremlin photo sessions!

Btw, zhenya, appreciate if you kindly point me to any web resource where you publish your work.

Send me the address personally if you think that’s still more appropriate. Thanks in advance.

apprentice,

i am in no way a professional photographer. It's a hobby of mine that has gone wild :)

anyway you can see some of my images here http://gallery.rozinskiy.com

This is what I have been saying for years! No problems or issues at all? I do not know how all of this camera stuff got started in the first place? It may have started when a lone militia person hassled someone for money at red square sometime in the past???? AIM.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Dec 28 2016

7 First Impressions of Moscow, Russia (From a Street Photography Perspective)

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the second largest city in Europe by population. It’s an urban, cosmopolitan city of the highest level, with more than enough glitz to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of European and Russian that makes it stand out on its own. And the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen.

So here are my first impressions of Moscow, from my personal Street Photographer perspective…

7 First Impressions of Moscow  (From a Street Photography Perspective)

1. big city with so much to discover.

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own. 

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

2. Museum Metro

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to definitely check out:

• Novoslobodskaya 
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya 
• Komsomolskaya 
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

3. Not as walkable as Saint-Petersburg

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have a lot of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

4.  Gorky Park is like a Russian Central Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Half the city under construction

European cities in general seem to be filled with more construction than usual lately. But while this won’t be true forever, Moscow was filled with the most I’ve ever seen. Moscow already has the most skyscrapers in Europe, with many being less than a decade old. In only the last few years, the three tallest skyscrapers in Europe have opened here, giving it five of Europe’s ten tallest. The 2018 FIFA Word Cup is bringing much of this on, but the city is pushing to complete a skyline here than will rival any in the world.

The recession has slowed down the construction some, but the government is pushing it on. So all over the city, there were sidewalks covered with wood boards and lined with striped construction walls. At first, it was a little disappointing from a street photography perspective to see so much blocked by construction. After a while, though, it became something to capture. The striped construction materials and signs are colorful and all the workers created some interesting activity. It will be interesting to see what the city looks like when everything is complete, but for now, the construction provides interest itself.

6. Learn the Russian Alphabet

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, it can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

7. Where East Meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with a museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more European package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline and modernities with soviet emblems and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet nostalgia, and a whole lot more.

Russia’s Metropolis

Moscow is famous around the world, but it might not be completely what you expect from Russia’s capital. The city’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it brings something changed over time since its Soviet days. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. Most might say it feels more like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

If any of you have been to Moscow before, tell me about your experience and impressions of the city and country in the comments below! And stay tuned for more on Moscow, including some of the best Street Photography shots I captured while there.

Click Here for More First Impressions on Cities Around the World 

(from a street photographer’s perspective)

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Best compact cameras in 2024

Quick links, best compact camera overall, best compact camera for travel, best fixed-lens compact camera, best compact camera with zoom, best compact camera for vlogging, best compact camera for video, best waterproof compact camera, best budget compact camera, the bottom line: the best compact camera.

Cameras don't have to be DSLR-sized to capture beautiful images. Many manufacturers sell advanced compacts that come in small point-and-shoot bodies but house larger, more advanced image sensors. However, that's not the only form factor offering high image quality in a diminutive package. Compact mirrorless cameras with pancake lenses aren't much larger, yet pack in a lot more features. Vlogging cameras, meanwhile, offer a slew of video features.

But as smartphone cameras continue to advance, why buy a compact camera in the first place? Advanced compact cameras and compact mirrorless cameras offer larger sensors, which translates into better image quality. Other compacts offer the zoom that phones simply can't fit in. Video-focused options offer less shake and better audio. Waterproof cameras may not offer any boost in image quality but can go where a smartphone can't.

A $200 point-and-shoot isn't going to offer anything more than a smartphone -- but the best compact cameras can produce better images and offer more zoom, or more durability. We've rounded up the top cameras small enough to fit in a pocket, purse, or backpack.

Best cameras for beginners: Photographer tested and reviewed

Sony rx100 vii.

The do-it-all point-and-shoot

About as perfect as a small-scale, high-end compact camera can get, but you'll pay a lot to own one.

• Wonderful image and video quality
• Great image stabilization
• Pop-up viewfinder
• Small buttons

Sony's RX100 series uses a larger one-inch sensor that delivers better images than the typical smartphone. Additionally, it offers better zoom capabilities, incredible video capture, and a comfortable design. The latest model follows the standards set by the Mark VI, which extended the lens further for greater versatility, and adds an advanced image processing engine and mic input to the package.

Sony RX100 VII: The compact king keeps its crown

It's got a serious zoom on it, taking you from full-on wide-angle all the way to telescope mode. Video features are plentiful, and there's even an option for up to 1,000fps slow-motion. The built-in stabilization is pretty good, too.

As ever with high-performance compacts, the battery life won't blow you away, but we found it to be comparable to the competition.

However, you'll need deep pockets to enjoy it -- and not on account of its size, simply because the asking price typically hovers above the four-figure mark. If you're willing to go a little larger, you can find better images at a lower price from a compact mirrorless.

The perfect travel companion

The Nikon Z30 is a compact yet capable mirrorless camera for vlogging.

• Compact, durable body
• APS-C sensor captures detailed photos and stills
• Slow autofocus
• 330-shot battery life
• No viewfinder

Compact cameras sit at a premium price point because they mix high image quality in a tiny body. However, if you're willing to go bigger, you can capture even better images for less cash with a compact mirrorless camera and pancake kit lens. Nearly as small as a point-and-shoot, the Nikon Z30 is just 2.3-inches deep, with the kit lens only adding another inch to that. It's not small enough for a pocket, but it can easily fit in a bag or purse.

The Nikon Z30 houses a 20-megapixel APS-C sensor -- that's a larger sensor than what's in the Sony RX100 IV, despite the mirrorless kit costing a few hundred dollars less. The Z30 captures excellent images for the price point. Video sits as another highlight, with 4K 30p and several vlogging features built-in.

The Nikon Z30 delivers more quality than a point-and-shoot, yet even factoring in the kit lens, it's not very big. As a budget-friendly option, it isn't the best for action. The autofocus is a bit slow. The smaller design also doesn't leave much room for a big battery or an electronic viewfinder.

I tested the most popular disposable cameras on Amazon

Fujifilm x100vi.

A high-resolution compact with style

With a vintage-inspired body and a 40-megapixel X-Trans sensor, the Fujifilm X100VI is a stylish camera delivering colorful images.

• 40-megapixel sensor
• Lovely design and ergonomics
• Hybrid viewfinder
• Poor battery life

Photographers who prioritize ergonomics and colorful photos more than zoom or speed should consider the Fujifilm X100VI. While it doesn't have the zoom or speed of the Sony RX100 VII, the X100VI makes up for it in style. Fujifilm's latest is a classically-inspired camera with a lovely design and a great set of dials and controls.

Early reviews are promising, and we loved the predecessor, so the Fujifilm X100VI should be a hit among photographers looking for a compact camera that still snaps beautiful JPEGs.

With the same large APS-C sensor that's in the Fujifilm X-H2 and X-H5, images look even lovelier than the exterior. Fujifilm is known for its color profiles and this compact camera is no exception. The built-in lens is a 23mm f2, which is equivalent to the classic 35mm focal length on a full-frame camera.

The downside is that the lens doesn't offer any zoom. Battery life is also poor, plus there are faster autofocus systems out there for action. The camera's weather sealing also doesn't fully protect the lens without an add-on accessory. The X100VI's launch was met with a lot of hype -- which means it can be difficult to find in stock. Still, early reviews are promising, and we loved the predecessor , so the Fujifilm X100VI should be a hit among photographers looking for a compact camera that still snaps beautiful JPEGs.

Panasonic FZ1000 Mark II

Small body, big lens

The Panasonic FZ1000 Mark II is a compact camera that boasts a 16x zoom lens.

• 16x optical zoom
• Large one-inch sensor
• Decent autofocus
• Larger than some compact cameras
• No weather-sealing

One of the primary reasons for picking up a dedicated camera, even with the progressively increasing quality of smartphone cameras, is the amount of zoom you can get. The Panasonic FZ1000 Mark II boasts a 16x optical zoom along with a one-inch sensor. That combination results in solid images, even when capturing more distant subjects.

The Panasonic FZ1000 Mark II is a bridge camera, which means it's a fixed-lens camera with a larger body. It's compact enough to slip into a backpack and still has plenty of room for other things, but you'd be hard-pressed to find pockets big enough for this camera. Still, the 16x zoom camera is smaller than mirrorless lenses with that same reach.

However, the FZ1000 Mark II isn't weather-sealed, so you can't take it out in the wind or in blowing sand. Bridge cameras tend to receive less attention than mirrorless cameras and the FZ1000 Mark II is starting to show its age a bit as a 2019 release.

Sony ZV-1 II

A vlogging powerhouse

Sony's second-generation compact vlogging camera offers superb video specifications at a relatively accessible price point. It's pretty great at taking photos, too.

• New, wider lens
• Excellent three-capsule microphone
• The best autofocus in the business
• Pricier than its predecessor
• No optical image stabilization

The latest iteration of Sony's popular compact vlogging-focused camera brings with it the number one thing that people were asking for -- a wider lens. It also inherits a more capable microphone and new autofocus features from the other cameras in Sony's ZV lineup.

Sony ZV-1 II: Better in some ways, worse in others

One of the biggest improvements, from an ease-of-use standpoint, is the new touch-centric user interface. It's now much easier to access the camera's many features simply by tapping on-screen icons and the menus are much easier to navigate, too.

It's not all good news though. The ZV-1 II loses optical image stabilization and its slow motion recording doesn't go as slow as the original ZV-1. You can't zoom in as far, either. Overall, we'd say it's the better camera, but if the original fits your needs better, it's still available to buy at retail.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3

A Steadicam for any occasion

As a camera and gimbal combo, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a compact device that delivers stellar, steady videos.

• One-inch sensor
• Built-in gimbal
• Great touchscreen
• Less durable than a GoPro
• Pricier than earlier models

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 merges a compact camera with a handheld gimbal. The result is a camera that makes it easy for beginners to get stellar, steady videos. The one-inch sensor also delivers better low-light video quality compared to a GoPro.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: I'd take it over a vlogging camera any day

The Pocket 3 is packed with unique features made possible by integrating a gimbal into the tiny camera. For example, the camera can follow the subject, keeping it at the center of the video. A two-inch touchscreen mounted on the handle of the gimbal also makes the Pocket 3 easy to use, even for beginners.

The downside, however, is that the Pocket 3 isn't really going to improve the photo quality from a smartphone. This one is all about video, and it shows when trying out the photo mode.

OM System TG-7 Underwater Camera

Rough and tumble with high quality

The OM System TG-7 is a tough camera that can go where you can't bring your smartphone

• Durable build
• Excellent macro mode
• Bright f2.0 - f4.9 lens
• Most images are smartphone quality

If you want a stills-focused camera that you can take where you can't take your smartphone, the OM System TG-7 is an excellent choice. The TG-7 has a brighter lens than most waterproof compacts. Plus, it has a really incredible macro mode for excellent close-up capability.

OM System TG-7: This tiny camera can go where phones can't

The real reason to buy the OM System TG-7 is durability, however. The compact camera is waterproof down to 50 feet. Plus, it's also rated to withstand 6.9-foot drops. The TG-7 can go where your smartphone can't, but the camera doesn't offer a boost in image quality over a good smartphone camera. While macro images are better than an iPhone 15, low-light images are grainy and outdoor shots are comparable to smartphone quality. It's also pricier than competitors.

GoPro Hero 12 Black

The ultimate action camera

With excellent video and stabilization, the GoPro Hero 12 Black action camera is more affordable than many other compacts.

• Great video quality
• Excellent stabilization
• Easy to use touchscreen
• Action design isn't as ergonomic for handled use

GoPro's Black line typically isn't associated with being budget-friendly, but the action camera costs less than the other compact cameras on this list. The durable action camera fit in a pocket and the popularity of the GoPro series also means there's no shortage of accessories.

GoPro Hero 12 Black: The best GoPro yet, but only just

The GoPro Hero 12 Black won't get you the one-inch sensor of some of the other compact cameras. However, it does offer excellent, stabilized 5.6K videos. The action camera design also keeps nearly everything in focus, whereas a typical budget camera will struggle to keep up with the fastest action. The downside to choosing a GoPro instead of a point-and-shoot is that the design is meant to be mounted, not handheld. Dedicated cameras are a bit more ergonomic if you don't plan on mounting the camera. Still, the excellent video quality, durable design, and $400 price point make it a compact option worth considering.

The best compact camera depends entirely on what you plan to use it on. Do you want a camera that has better images than your smartphone? Or do you want more zoom or durability than a smartphone? Do you plan to shoot more stills, or more videos? The Sony RX100 VII offers the most features in the smallest body, making it our top recommendation. With the RX100 VII, you'll get better images than a smartphone and more zoom, while video features include stabilization and super slow-motion. However, the high list price may dissuade many.

If you want the best possible images and video but don't mind going a little bigger than a point-and-shoot, consider an ultra-compact mirrorless camera with a kit lens like the Nikon Z30. The Z30 costs less than the RX100 VII and produces better images from a larger sensor, while only being a little larger than the point-and-shoot category. To get up close, consider a compact zoom camera like the 16x zoom Panasonic FZ1000 II. If durability is paramount, try the OM System TG-7.

If video is more your jam, consider the excellent Sony ZV-1 II vlogging camera. Beginners can find super steady shots from the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, while the GoPro Hero 12 offers a lot of video features in a tiny $400 camera.

How we choose the best compact cameras

I've been reviewing cameras for more than ten years. The majority of the cameras on this list I have used myself, or another member of the Pocket-lint team has reviewed thoroughly. The cameras that I don't have hands-on experience with, I'm at least familiar with the brand, the reputation, or even the predecessor.

Best mirrorless cameras: Top models from Nikon, Canon, Sony, and more

For the best compact cameras, we choose a range of small-bodied cameras that either deliver better images, better video, or a more durable build than a smartphone. A key consideration was sensor size, as a larger sensor almost always correlates with better image quality. Since many smartphone cameras lack optical zoom, lens reach was a key consideration as well. Finally, we consider compact cameras that are capable of heading underwater and surviving drops.

Q: What will you be using your compact camera for?

Thinking about this should really help you narrow things down. If you love to shoot wildlife, then you'll want a decently long zoom, but, if it's mainly going to be used for group shots at parties, then you'll care more about how wide it goes.

If you intend to use the camera for videos, then you might want to make sure it has a microphone input, as the built-in microphones aren't always good enough for a polished video. Image stabilization is a massive factor for videos, too, especially with these tiny cameras, as their form factor makes them more prone to shakes.

Q: What's the deal with one-inch sensors?

A few cameras on our list boast one-inch sensors, but what does that even mean? We won't get into the nitty-gritty here, because all you really need to know is that a larger sensor gives you better low-light performance and allows for a shallower depth of field.

One-inch sensors have been making their way into smaller and smaller devices, and you're even starting to see them in some phones . So, if you're looking for your camera to be a step-up in terms of image quality, you'll probably be looking for one-inch as a minimum.

Q: Is a compact camera right for you?

The clue about compact cameras is right in the name; they're compact. Most people don't want to lug around a heavy DSLR and a bag full of lenses, so compacts offer a great alternative with a wide range of focal lengths built right in.

If you're a keen smartphone shooter, a compact camera can give you real bokeh , as opposed to the AI-driven portrait modes that so often chop into your subject's hair or body. The zoom range will be welcomed, as well, if you have ever tried to take a picture of some wildlife with your phone.

More experienced photographers often like compacts as they are a lot more discreet. This allows them to get candid shots and maybe even shoot photos in areas that don't allow for more professional-looking equipment. If you're new to photography but are thinking of getting into it more seriously, you might eventually find yourself feeling a bit limited without interchangeable lenses -- so you might want to take a look at some of our other camera buyer's guides , too.

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