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11 Best Camera Backpacks for Travel in 2024

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Think “backpack,” and you probably think “travel.” But a camera backpack fills a special role. And it needs to do it well if it’s going to protect your gear—and your back!

In choosing the best camera backpack for travel, we were less concerned about accessibility and ease of use. Our main criteria were protection and comfort. But, of course, the best camera backpacks will shine in all areas.

Our top three choices are no exception. In fact, our favorite camera backpack for travel came second overall in our extensive review of the best camera backpacks . And even then, it missed the top spot by only a whisker. It’s brilliantly designed, roomy, and comfortable to wear.

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What Is the Best Camera Backpack for Travel?

We will tell you more about why we like these recommended camera backpacks. But first, here’s a table with a summary of their strengths.

• Super-comfortable and practical design
• Unparalleled functionality and design precision
• Exceptional sturdiness, adaptability, and comfort
• Spacious structure perfect for serious photographers
• More than 50 years of gear-making experience
• Top-notch construction with robust, weather-resistant materials
• Thoughtfully designed features for enhanced user experience
• Compact and lightweight, perfect for travel photographers
• Ample storage with protective padding for equipment safety
• Worth the investment for its superior quality and durability
• Designed for speedy access and convenience
• Lightweight nylon material and quick-access design
• Minimal yet strategic padding for comfort and security
• Features QuickDoor access for easy and quick retrieval
• Lightweight and practical for everyday use

• Designed by renowned manufacturer and famous photographer
• Versatile storage with "ladder" insert and removable cubes
• Lightweight yet ensures gear safety with superior quality
• Comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind
• Stylish design exudes class, elevating it beyond a simple camera bag

• Offers impressive carrying capacity
• Lightweight design for easy travel
• Provides professional-level gear storage
• Showcases innovative design elements
• Comes with a lifetime warranty for quality assurance

• Ideal for casual photographers with its simple, lightweight design
• Superior all-weather resistance in a stylish black camo design
• Durable and tear-resistant, perfect for urban environments
• Middle-range placement for value, offering good features at an affordable price
• Large volume version offering ample space for equipment

• Rugged design for outdoor enthusiasts
• Durable materials ensure longevity
• Offers high level of protection for gear
• Versatile storage with customizable dividers
• Excellent weather protection for outdoor shoots

• Designed specifically for air travel
• Compact and lightweight with efficient space usage
• Features useful straps, handles, and security lock
• Comes with a lifetime warranty for long-term use
• Offers excellent storage capacity and solid protection

• Designed by photographers for outdoor enthusiasts
• Durable materials with room for large lenses
• Excellent weather protection for outdoor expeditions
• Versatile enough for air travel and endorsed by renowned photographers
• Ample storage with features like a laptop sleeve and tripod strap.

• Designed for versatility, blending seamlessly into any setting
• Withstands various environments, from city streets to harsh climates
• Unique front camera insert for discreet, easy access to gear
• Customizable compartments for convenient organization
• Ideal for travel and street photographers carrying minimal gear

• Designed by photographers for maximum utility
• Lightweight with high-tech weatherproof materials
• Tailored for mirrorless cameras but versatile for DSLRs
• Packed with thoughtful details and customization options
• Eco-friendly production in a carbon-neutral factory

Our Favorite Camera Backpacks for Travel

We’ll now look at what these camera backpacks have that makes them so suitable for travel. As you’ll see, it’s a blend of design, practicality, comfort, and protection. So let’s go over what these travel bags have that provides the optimum mix of those criteria.

You’ll also find a link to our in-depth review of each bag. And there you can see how we made our judgments and lots more detail about each bag.

1. Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader Camera Backpack

The Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader is a camera backpack that truly stands out. Manfrotto is a brand well-known for high-quality photography accessories. And it shows in this bag.

This bag is designed thoughtfully, with a focus on functionality and detail. So it’s no surprise that it’s a favorite among professionals.

This backpack’s design might be a little dull for some. But its virtues lie elsewhere. It’s sturdy, spacious, and versatile. So it’s perfect for travel.

Its comfort and adaptability are impressive, but it’s not for everyone. There are other options if you’re after a lightweight bag for a day trip.

The Multiloader’s design maximizes interior space. The quality of materials used is top-notch. And the backpack is constructed to a high standard. So it’s a reliable choice for carrying expensive camera gear.

It may take some time to figure out the configuration options. But once you work them out, you’ve got a bag that works as a backpack, a duffel, and a sling .

It has access from the front and both sides. And the rain cover is reversible, with the other side reflective and providing protection from the intense sun.

So if you’re on the lookout for a sturdy, spacious camera backpack for travel, the PRO Light Multiloader is worth considering. It’s a worthwhile investment for serious photographers.

In our full review of the Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader camera backpack , we scored it 84.9 out of 100. It’s particularly suited for taking all the gear you need for a whole day’s shoot.

If you want to see how this compares to the other camera backpacks for travel we reviewed, read our article on the best camera backpacks .

2. Wandrd Duo Daypack Camera Backpack

The Wandrd Duo Daypack is a fantastic travel companion for the avid photographer. Its robust construction and lightweight design ensure it’s both durable and easy to carry.

Crafted from quality materials, this backpack offers excellent weather protection. It safeguards your camera and equipment very well from the elements.

Wandrd is a company born from a passion for photography and wanderlust. And their vision is evident in the Duo Daypack’s design. It boasts many features that enhance user experience, making it more than just a storage solution.

It has a couple of minor drawbacks, like additional purchases for the tripod straps and hip belt. But the Duo Daypack provides ample storage.

Its versatile pockets can accommodate a variety of items, ensuring all your gear is secure and organized. And the main zipper allows easy access when you need to grab your camera quickly.

It leans towards the higher end of the price spectrum. But the Duo Daypack is worth every penny.

It features high-quality construction, thoughtful design, and overall functionality. So it’s a worthy investment for any travel photographer.

In our full review of the Wandrd Duo Daypack camera backpack , we gave it a score of 82.6 out of 100. You can compare how it fared against all others we tested in our best camera backpack post.

Use our discount code EXPERTPHOTOGRAPHY at checkout for 15% off your first order!

3. Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III Camera Backpack

The Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III is a camera backpack designed with convenience in mind, making it perfect for travel. It’s made of lightweight nylon material and has a QuickDoor access system.

This makes it a game-changer for on-the-go photographers. So it’s ideal for photojournalists and wedding photographers who need to act quickly to capture the perfect shot.

Despite its focus on speed and convenience, the Fastpack Pro doesn’t compromise on protection. The camera compartment has strategic padding for keeping your gear safe.

But its padding for the wearer could be improved. While it provides padding in the right places, it’s quite minimal and may not be as comfortable for long periods.

The QuickDoor access combines the best of side and full compartment access, providing flexibility and ease of use. So its lightweight design and quick access make it a practical everyday backpack for many photographers.

In terms of design, the Fastpack Pro is functional and user-friendly. It has a boxy shape that utilizes space effectively.

Plus, small protective features demonstrate Lowepro’s attention to detail. It has a fleece-lined section for valuables and a raised laptop compartment. It’s a camera bag built by photographers for photographers.

In our full review of the Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III , we gave it a score of 81.5 out of 100. To check out how this compares to the other camera backpacks for travel we reviewed, read our article on the best camera backpacks .

4. Nomatic McKinnon 25L Camera Backpack

The Nomatic McKinnon 25L camera backpack is a stellar choice for travel. It’s a result of a unique collaboration between a renowned backpack manufacturer and a famous photographer.

The result is a stylish, lightweight, yet incredibly safe bag. The “ladder” insert and removable cubes add versatility that’s hard to beat.

Nomatic is a brand known for its quality and innovation. Their lifetime warranty on the McKinnon backpack is a testament to their confidence in the product.

Its design and build quality are impressive, with ripstop 80/20 nylon and polyethylene fabric adding to its durability.

The Nomatic McKinnon 25L isn’t just a camera bag. It’s a travel companion that offers style and flexibility without compromising protection.

Its only shortcoming might be the lack of quick-access side opening, but the top access arrangements somewhat make up for it. This backpack is an ideal investment for any photographer on the move.

In our full review of the Nomatic McKinnon 25L camera backpack , we scored it 79.2 out of 100. It is a truly good-looking bag while still being functional.

Read our review of all the best camera backpacks . It shows you how they all stack up against each other.

Use our discount code EXPERT15 at checkout for an extra 15% off!

5. Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L Camera Backpack

The Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L is a camera backpack that exudes the spirit of adventure. Born from a collaboration of photography enthusiasts, it reflects the mountain climbing heritage of its creators.

The backpack is lightweight and boasts an impressive carrying capacity. So it’s perfect for travel photographers. Small rucksacks inspire its design, but it doesn’t skimp on the essentials of a camera bag.

The bag offers ample storage for professional-level gear. It’s also fitted with multiple fixing points for extra gear, making it a practical choice for hikers or climbers.

But it does have some downsides. Its rucksack vibe might not appeal to everyone. And the padding between the sides and the interior could be improved for better equipment protection.

But despite these minor drawbacks, the MindShift BackLight 18L remains a top contender in camera backpack reviews. It’s a reliable companion for those travel photography adventures.

Our full review of the Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L camera backpack  gave it a score of 76.1 out of 100. We reckon it’s one of the best for hiking.

But it also works as a general travel camera backpack. You’ll find out how it compares to the other camera backpacks for travel in our article on the best camera backpacks .

6. Tenba Fulton V2 Camera Backpack

The Tenba Fulton V2 is a camera backpack perfect for travel photographers. And its lightweight and simple design also makes it an ideal choice for everyday use.

The bag’s all-weather design ensures superior protection against harsh elements. This makes it perfect for photographers who often work in unpredictable weather conditions.

Despite not being the most feature-rich bag, the Fulton V2 provides value for the right photographer. Its simplicity and durability are perfect for street photographers. And the lightweight nature of the bag makes it a comfortable choice for long days of shooting.

A slight drawback is the limited storage space for personal items. But this isn’t much of an issue for urban photographers who don’t carry many personal items.

The Tenba Fulton V2 is a solid camera backpack that offers good value. Its all-weather design and lightweight nature make it a great travel companion for photographers. It may not have all the bells and whistles of other bags, but it does the job well.

In our full review of the Tenba Fulton V2 Camera Backpack , we scored it 76 out of 100. You can see how this compares to the other camera backpacks for travel we reviewed by reading our article on the best camera backpacks .

7. Thule Covert 32L Camera Backpack

The Thule Covert 32L camera backpack is a top-notch travel choice for photographers. Its robust build quality and durable materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.

The Swedish brand, Thule, has a longstanding reputation for quality outdoor equipment. And the Covert backpack is no exception.

Despite being on the heavier side, its weight is justified by its superior construction and functionality. It offers ample storage and customizable padded dividers, making it versatile for different gear setups.

Its weather protection is excellent, safeguarding your equipment from the elements. But the main drawback is its weight. At 4.7 lb (2.14 kg) empty, it’s noticeably heavier than many other camera backpacks.

But traveling photographers who want durability and protection over lightweight convenience will find this a good investment. It’s designed to withstand the challenges of outdoor travel, And it’s a reliable companion for your photo adventures.

In our full review of the Thule Covert 32L camera backpack , we gave it a score of 75.4 out of 100. It’s in our top ten of the best camera backpacks , and you can see how the others fared as well.

8. Think Tank Airport Essentials Camera Backpack

The Think Tank Airport Essentials camera backpack is designed specifically for air travel. It offers an efficient design and useful features.

It’s compact and lightweight. Yet it provides excellent storage capacity and solid protection for your gear. Despite its lack of versatility, it serves as reliable hand luggage for photographers on the move.

The backpack’s outer material is a robust, canvas-like, woven 600D polyester. And it has a water-repellent coating for light showers. For heavier downpours, a removable waterproof cover is provided.

The interior is a blend of polyester and nylon. And it features a layer of soft nylon, providing some protection for your gear.

Security is a major plus with the Airport Essentials. All external zippers have hoops for attaching locks. And there’s a built-in cable lock.

It has limited flexibility. But this camera backpack excels in storage capacity, protection, and design. So it’s a smart choice for photographers who frequently travel. Plus, the bag’s lifetime warranty also adds value. 

Our full review of the Think Tank Airport Essentials camera backpack gave it a score of 75.4 out of 100. This put it in the top ten camera backpacks we reviewed. You can read the article on the best camera backpacks to learn more about all the bags we tested.

9. Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 22L Camera Backpack

Renowned for its durable materials and ample room for large lenses, the Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 22L camera backpack is an excellent choice as a travel backpack. It’s also ideal for wildlife and outdoor photographers.

Its robust outer frame offers solid protection, while the interior could use slightly more padding. But it has weather-resistant X-Pac VX-21 outer material. And it includes a waterproof cover to ensure excellent weather protection. So it’s ideal for outdoor expeditions and air travel alike.

The Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 does have its drawbacks. The butterfly opening design may frustrate some photographers. And the dual opening on the front could limit the bag’s flexibility and capacity.

On the other hand, some photographers love the order and ease of use they provide. It’s also worth noting that this bag is pricier, which could be a deterrent for some.

Despite this, the bag has many strengths, making it a worthy contender for those seeking a reliable travel camera backpack. This includes robust shoulder straps and useful features like a laptop sleeve, tripod strap, and water bottle holder.

Plus, it’s endorsed by world-renowned photographers. So, all in all, the Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 is a solid investment for photographers who prioritize durability and weather protection.

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. You can see how it compares to others we reviewed in our article on the best camera backpacks . You’ll also find details of all the bags we tested and how we made our choices.

10. Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Camera Backpack

The Tenba DNA 16 DSLR camera backpack perfectly blends style and functionality. This bag is the epitome of versatility. It transitions between various scenarios effortlessly, making it ideal for travel and street photography.

It is designed for on-the-go photographers and offers a unique front camera insert that opens like a mailbox. This provides easy and discreet access to your gear. 

Durability is another strong suit of the Tenba DNA 16. It’s built to last, from the bustling streets of New York to the extreme cold of Antarctica.

It doesn’t just look good, but it’s also made to protect your camera gear in any weather condition. Made from weatherproof materials, it promises to withstand all environments. 

Despite its robust build, the Tenba DNA 16 keeps a low profile. Its sleek design blends seamlessly into any setting, making it less likely to attract unwanted attention. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who prefer to keep a low profile while traveling.

But the Tenba DNA 16 has its drawbacks. Its camera compartment is rather small. And the padding is thin, which may not provide adequate protection for your gear. This makes it more suitable for photographers who carry minimal gear.

In essence, this is a well-rounded camera backpack for travel photographers. Its unique design, durability, and versatility make it a worthy contender in the market. But its limited camera compartment might be a deal-breaker for photographers with more extensive gear.

In our full review of the Tenba DNA 16 DSLR camera backpack , we gave it a score of 72.5 out of 100. If you would like to see how this compares to the other camera backpacks for travel we reviewed, then check out our article on the best camera backpacks .

11. Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ Camera Backpack

The Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ camera backpack is a product of photographers’ insights. And it’s an ideal travel companion.

It’s lightweight. It’s made from high-tech weatherproof materials. And it offers superior protection for camera gear. It’s designed to accommodate mirrorless cameras but can also fit a full frame DSLR.

This backpack is not just about protection. It’s also about convenience and organization. It has various dividers, allowing you to customize the space according to your needs.

It also features a laptop and tablet section. And both are padded for extra protection.

But the Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter isn’t just about functionality. It’s about responsibility too. The main component, the external fabric, is produced in a carbon-neutral factory. This makes it a great choice for the eco-conscious photographer.

But, like any product, it’s not perfect. Some may find its design a bit mundane.

Also, accessing the main flap requires removing the bag, which can be inconvenient for some. But these are minor issues and don’t overshadow its overall performance.

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. See how we came to this decision and how it compares to other travel options with our review of the best camera backpacks .

Conclusion: The Best Camera Backpacks for Travel

An ideal camera backpack for travel isn’t necessarily about being able to change lenses quickly or how easy it is to attach your walking poles . The best hiking camera backpack isn’t necessarily the best travel bag.

Let’s face it, most travel to far-flung places is by plane. So we need to be confident that our gear will be safe and easy to carry through the airport and onto the plane. That’s why some of our top picks are about capacity rather than convenience.

That said, what impressed us most at ExpertPhotography is just how good the best camera backpacks are. They turn up again and again, whatever category we are looking at.

We love these top three camera backpacks for travel. But we think you’d do well to check out the others to find the perfect solution for your needs.

Popular Content

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

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

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

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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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, with options for holsters, messenger bags, backpacks, roller bags and hard cases.

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. 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. 

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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. 

6. 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. 

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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 roller bags for your camera

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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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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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The Best Travel Camera Bags for Experts and Amateurs Alike

By Alex Erdekian

Traveling with a camera is always A Thing. It’s stressful and high stakes. The chances of damaging a camera, losing it, having it stolen, or misplacing a key accessory like batteries, are unfortunately high on a trip. Which is why investing in a decent camera bag and doing your research is essential. When a camera is along for the ride, a bag whose design thoughtfully and specifically takes your packing list into account is a godsend. It’s important to consider that different camera backpacks and bags work best in different environments—the receptacle that's ideal for skirting along the edge of a waterfall might not be the one you choose when walking for miles in Paris . Below, we’ve selected the best camera backpacks for every situation, with styles from trusted brands including Lo & Sons, Bellroy, and Thule.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Meg Reinhardt and Louis Cheslaw.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Lo & Sons The Claremont

Best overall style

This sleek, luxurious bag from Lo & Sons is simple and beautiful, with rich, colorful full-grain leather and gold hardware. It’s a crossbody style that to the untrained eye looks like a standard purse, not a bulky camera case. Best of all, it’s specifically designed to transport and protect a DSLR camera, and even has space to throw in a small lens or external flash. Inside, padded foam compartments snugly fit the equipment, and there are also slim pockets designed to hold memory cards, as well as your keys and credit cards.

Noteworthy features: Quilted interior, turnlock clasp for security

Focus Camera square camera case

Best for Instax owners

Fans of Fujifilm’s beloved instant cameras will adore this accessory that makes bringing an Instax along for a trip so effortless and cute. The icy blue synthetic leather and artful stitching make this piece a stand-out. There’s even a detachable cover to take pictures without removing the camera from the case.

Noteworthy features: Detachable cover, adjustable strap

Only NY compact camera bag

Best for a day of street photography in Lower Manhattan

Ideal for city street photography and for small-scale cameras, this miniature camera bag from Only NY is no-frills and comes in black and camo print. It fits a camera in the padded main compartment, and has a small zip pocket for SD cards and other accessories.

Noteworthy features: Adjustable nylon shoulder strap, belt loop

Madewell The Transport camera bag

Best camera bag that doesn’t look like a camera bag

This classy leather crossbody from Madewell is perfectly suited for taking a point-and-shoot camera along for the adventure when you're city traveling, but it’s also cute enough to serve as a bag when you leave your device at home. Available in a warm chestnut as well as a glossy black, the vegetable-dyed leather is unique to each bag. We love that there are two strap options to choose from: one skinny leather strap, and one wide fabric strap in a crisp white.

Noteworthy features: Multifunctional, exterior slide pocket for your phone

Jessica Puckett

Ashlea Halpern

Anna Borges

Claire Volkman

Coach Mini Jamie camera bag

Best bag for bringing back your Y2K era

Coach is a classic for a reason, and while it epitomizes Y2K style, you can rock it with even more flair today, evoking nostalgia. The brand’s Jamie Camera crossbody camera bag is 9.5" x 7", making it an ideal size for a small device that you want to tote to a party—or have on your hip while you stroll an urban street abroad. It’s made of smooth, creamy leather and lined with fabric. Chic and functional.

Noteworthy features: Credit card slots, adjustable strap

Fjallraven Kanken Photo Insert

Best for flexibility

This accessory from Fjällräven can transform any bag or backpack into one for cameras, but is specifically designed to click into the brand’s Kånken backpack dimensions. It comes in two sizes, small and medium, depending on how much gear you have. It’s padded with foam compartments that protect cameras, lenses, and other gear like microphones or lights.

Noteworthy features: Water-resistant, Velcro for flexibility

Away The Front Pocket backpack

Best for business travel

For the trip where there is no time to be spared, a backpack from Away is the way and the light. Just like the brand’s much-loved suitcases, The Front Pocket backpack makes organization a cinch, thanks to the specificity of its design. A small, compact camera easily fits within the main compartment, and there's plenty of space for a laptop and photography gear—chargers, spare batteries, memory cards—and other loose, small travel items. The back of the pack has a space to stow your passport, and a key loop hangs from the bottom.

Noteworthy features: 15-inch laptop sleeve, trolley sleeve that secures to luggage

Bellroy classic compact backpack

Best for urban exploring

Bellroy’s classic backpack is already ideal for urban adventures, but this compact version might be our preferred size, as it's slim enough that you won’t bump strangers on the subway. It’s got pockets on pockets, a cushioned sleeve for your laptop, a key loop, and more. It even has a water-resistant, padded sunglasses pocket on top. A DSLR camera body with a lens would fit nicely within the main compartment, but this isn’t the pack for toting additional lenses.

Noteworthy features: 13-inch laptop compartment, accessible front pocket, lumbar support for your spine

Brevitē The Jumper backpack

Best multi-purpose bag

Designed with shutterbugs in mind, Brevitē's The Jumper backpack has a pocket for each and every essential: there's a sleeve that fits up to a 16-inch laptop; a compartment with removable dividers, meant to hold a full-frame DSLR, three lenses, plus a 70-200mm lens or drone and SD cards; a smaller zip pocket to slide a passport and phone into; a water bottle holder; an open inner compartment to store a change of clothes; and loops on the bottom to tote a tripod. When you want to use it as a standard backpack, take the dividers out to have one large compartment inside. Consider this the personal item of choice for photographers.

Noteworthy features: Quick side access to camera, luggage pass-through sleeve to secure to carry-on

Peak Design 45L travel backpack

Best for long haul trips

For travelers heading out on a longer journey —say, a safari or an Antarctic expedition—Peak Design's expandable carry-on backpack has plenty of space for everything on your list. It does require purchasing three pieces best used as a set: the travel backpack; a tech pouch for chargers, plugs, and back-up batteries; and a camera cube to safely organize your equipment. Because it can fit so much, it can also get heavy—but padded straps make managing that weight as comfortable as possible. (For a less spacious, but all-in-one option, consider the Peak Design Everyday Backpack , which comes with padded inserts you can configure according to your load.)

Noteworthy features: Expandable side pockets, easy access to gear, weatherproof

Lululemon crossbody camera bag

Best for day trips

For a last-minute jaunt upstate , to the Cape , or wherever your local getaway may be, this crossbody camera bag from Lululemon is just the ticket. It’s lightweight and hands-free, which means bringing your camera along will feel like a breeze (though as you can surmise from the size, it won't hold all the accessories you might want on longer trips). A back pocket to slip your phone into keeps essentials handy, and water-resistant fabric makes this one safe for a winter stroll by the shore.

Noteworthy features: Drop-in phone pocket, adjustable strap

Thule Aspect DSLR backpack

Best for skiing and snow sports

The camera gear needed to capture snow sports is a whole different ball game—and that includes the bag. This roomy weatherproof option from Thule has a padded storage compartment that fits a DSLR camera body and two lenses. A pocket accessible from the side lets skiers swiftly retrieve their camera while on the slopes. Front straps help to stabilize the load so that a skier's balance remains unaffected.

Noteworthy features: Space for a drone, sternum strap

OverBoard 20L waterproof kayak deck bag

Best for aquatic environments

If you’re bringing equipment you care about aboard a boat or dangerously close to a body of water of any sort—kayaking, paddleboarding, on a waterfall hike—you would be wise to go 100 percent waterproof with your camera bag. This one floats, and contents will remain bone-dry if it falls overboard.

Noteworthy features: Removable shoulder strap, webbing, interior pocket for documents, water-resistant

Lemaire camera bag

Best for formal events

This minimalist, geometric leather camera bag can be worn as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or around the neck. Molded into the basic shape of a camera itself, with a cylindrical magnet closure that mimics a camera lens, this statement item has a subtle whimsy while still being luxurious. It's an outfit-maker and one of the best camera bags if you are your friend group’s designated party, wedding, or night out photographer.

Noteworthy features: Magnet closure, handmade, adjustable strap

Mountainsmith Tanuck 40L backpack

Best for backpacking

Mountainsmith’s Tanuck backpack was designed in collaboration with landscape and adventure photographer Chris Burkard . Tough Cordura fabric means it is as durable as camera bags get. And for practical purposes, it might as well be Hermione’s bottomless bag from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows : There's enough space for tripods, lenses, light stands, and accessories to go inside this 40-liter daypack.

Noteworthy features : Hydration sleeve to drink water through, hip belt, storm collar, and rain cover

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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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.

Learn more about Cora Harrison

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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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12 Best Camera Travel Backpacks [Complete Guide]

Aug 14, 2022 | Bags & Backpacks , Travel

Certainly, your camera gear always feels tight after several hours of putting it on your back, regardless of whether you’re spending the day shooting Barcelona’s historic district or exploring the Grand Canyon.

When everything is packed, you’ll be fortunate to have enough left over for sunscreen or snacks! You would be better off getting a cab if you need to transport a bulky tripod set, but you can usually do just fine with such a backpack.

The issue is that since many backpacks aren’t made to safeguard delicate items, they aren’t ideal for carrying cameras and photographic equipment.

If you’re hunting for a top camera backpack model for your equipment, I’ve researched and tested the best options.

This is the list I wish I had while picking out my gadgets and photography bag since I’m a backpacking photographer who is always on the go. I’m making your search a little bit simpler now, at least!

A Buyer’s Guide to the Top Camera Backpack Features

Finding the ideal camera backpack mostly relies on how you want to use it and the equipment you’ll be carrying. In this brief guide, we’ll go over a few key factors to bear in mind while looking for camera backpacks.

The finest camera backpacks will include a dedicated laptop pouch and additional compartments for lenses, SD cards, connections, external hard drives, and other photography gear.

Of course, you’ll need some personal items, such as your phone, passport, and paperwork.

Typically, a tripod mounting point will be there, along with cushioned storage spaces for more sensitive equipment like lens filters, the camera body and lenses, and safe storage for the tripod.

Check the measurements to discover whether your camera backpack qualifies as a personal item and carry-on bag if you want to travel by flight.

Typically, the carry-on is kept in the overhead bin, and the personal item is tucked beneath the seat in front of you.

Litres are often used to describe backpack sizes. They may be little (15L) backpacks that only hold one camera or big (40L or more) packs that allow you to carry many cameras, other travel essentials, and even your clothes!

If you’re planning lengthy excursions or multi-day picture sessions, larger packs are more costly but ultimately worthwhile investments.

On my word! Comparatively speaking, carrying one camera bag with room for your apparel is much more convenient than carrying two. The finest camera bag that accomplishes this is what I’ll provide below.

Electronics and photography gear is already hefty, so your backpack must be as light as possible if you carry your gear around on your back.

Due to the padding and tougher construction of photography backpacks, they tend to weigh a little bit more than standard hiking and travel backpacks, while there are still light ones available that weigh between 1.5 and 5 pounds (1kg to 2.5kg)

To avoid any nasty surprises at the airport, it’s also a great idea to weigh the rucksack that contains all of your belongings.

I aim to keep my camera bag under 15 pounds (7 kilograms), which is the most restrictive weight restriction on Emirates, Qantas, Singapore Carriers, Jet Airways, and a few other airlines. However, the weight limit varies per airline.

Urban versus rural

Your choice of camera backpack will be greatly influenced by the photography you’ll be undertaking.

Depending on how adventurous you want to be, taking photos outside often necessitates going on many hikes and even spending the night on the path!

You should generally choose a little larger backpack with more comfortable shoulder straps if you want to perform any outside shooting.

Smaller and lighter camera backpacks are normally preferable in the city, particularly if you’re traveling by public transit.

When moving through busy spaces, try to clear any excess hanging straps, buckles, and loops that might be easily hooked and snagged.

A water bottle compartment in your camera backpack is a wonderful addition in either scenario to make it simpler to remain hydrated while capturing pictures.

Versatility

Even though it is designated as a camera backpack, it may be used to carry items other than cameras. On some days, you may want to leave your camera and equipment at home or even in the hotel room so you can go forth and engage in other activities.

Additionally, carrying more bags than necessary when traveling is a hassle, so it’s ideal if your camera backpack can also serve as a day bag for everyday usage.

Always crucial to consider, the cost may have the last say in whatever bag you choose to carry your photographic equipment. Certain camera backpacks might vary based on the features, but many are still fairly priced.

Investing a little extra money on a high-quality item that will last a long time if you’re an avid photographer who never leaves home without your camera may be worthwhile.

On the other hand, if you’re on a week-long trip and want a backpack to carry your camera while there, you may locate a high-quality, inexpensive bag that would work just fine.

Construction and Materials

Suppose you’re anything like me and you travel a lot. In that case, your camera bag will be subjected to all sorts of scenarios on aircraft, buses, hostels, and other places where it could be bashed, touched, scratched, etc., in addition to being exposed to the weather pretty often.

You must thus get a strong bag with long-lasting components and top-notch workmanship and seams. It should be weather/water-resistant to shield your equipment from rain or a rare water accident.

Due to its toughness, water resistance, and affordability, canvas and variations are among the most popular fabrics for travel camera bags. Newer synthetic materials provide the same results, although they are often slightly more costly.

The foam inserts safeguarding your equipment inside a camera bag set it apart from other bags.

Your luggage should ideally have many foam dividers and the foam cushioning surrounding it to prevent your equipment from slamming against one another while you’re traveling.

Convenience and ergonomics

Your purse must be comfortable! As a vacation photographer, you’ll probably roam about the city all day while carrying your equipment on your back. Your equipment will seem much lighter or heavier depending on how comfy your backpack is.

Take note of the shoulder straps. How thickly are they cushioned? Are hip straps included to aid with weight distribution as well?

Hip pads are not required if the camera bag is tiny, but they become more beneficial as the bag becomes larger and heavier.

How accessible is everything in terms of ergonomics? Are your access points built to function the way you require them to, and how many do you have?

Discreteness

No matter where you are—in a place with few minor crimes or one where there are many—cameras are always a target for thieves.

In a perfect world, your backpack wouldn’t shout, “I’m carrying a camera!” Even so, does it provide any safeguards against pickpocketing? Are there latches, locking zippers, or other materials or features that might make it more difficult for someone to take your equipment?

Customizability

It is one of its finest qualities to adjust the inside of a decent camera bag so that it can hold your gear precisely as you need it.

Padded dividers may conveniently fit your equipment snugly within your bag to accomplish this.

How adaptable can it also be? Is it possible to reorganize the backpack to accommodate one or two cameras and a few lenses? What about a drone-mounted camera? Add some hard disks and a lens, please.

Type of Bag

The kind of bag you need will depend on how you use your camera gear, how accessible it is, how well secured it has to be, how much gear you have, & how you want to carry it.

Although there are many distinct kinds of bags, they are often grouped into one of these six categories:

The most popular and best travel camera bags for DSLRs are backpacks, which often feature a lot of inner room for cameras and lenses. They often also have a compartment for a laptop and tablet. If they are made well, backpacks may evenly distribute the weight of your goods so that you don’t feel it completely on your shoulders.

In terms of capacity, roller bags are comparable to backpacks; however, rather than being carried on the back, these bags are rolled on the ground. These backpacks work well in urban settings but are less convenient to transport in rough, far-off terrain.

Shoulder Bags: Shoulder bags are often smaller bags worn over the chest or on one shoulder. Although they are often relatively portable and light, shoulder bags have little capacity.

Messenger Bags: Messenger bags resemble shoulder bags but are a little bigger and have a longer strap. They often hang about the hip and may be crossed over one shoulder or both.

Bags called holsters are designed to be fastened to a piece of clothing, such as a belt or chest strap. These are designed to handle only a camera and a lens and are often considerably smaller than shoulder backpacks.

Backpack inserts are mostly accessory packs designed to fit within a bigger backpack. They are practical if you already have a roomy, big travel bag that can include an insert to safeguard your photography equipment.

2021’S TOP 12 CAMERA BACKPACKS

Here are the best all-around bags for traveling photographers we’ve chosen after going over some key elements to think about while looking for a camera backpack.

This list is presently regarded as the top backpacks for adventure photographers who want to transport their critical camera equipment in the most practical, organized, and comfortable manner possible.

WANDRD PRVKE 21L Travel and DSLR Camera Backpack

The greatest camera bag overall and the most popular option for most intrepid photographers.

Adventures in the great outdoors provide some of the finest picture possibilities and the largest hazards for expensive camera gear. But as long as you have the PRVKE Travel Camera Backpack, no worries!

I’ve loved having this bag for the last four years. It is compact, lightweight, and easy to carry. It also provides outstanding protection, flexible gear arrangement, and simple access. I also like how slim, simple, and tiny it is.

Depending on the trip, I bring my laptop, additional accessories, four external hard drives, my camera with up to 3 lenses, and so on. I sometimes even manage to fit my DJI Mavic Pro Drone in it if I’m not hauling around too many lenses.

Ballistic fabric and a strong, water-resistant tarpaulin make the bag waterproof. In bad weather, the PRVKE also has a rain cover, although, to be quite honest, I’ve never used it since the PRVKE is already very water-resistant.

This is a particularly adaptable bag in capacity since the rolltop cover may be enlarged as required for an extra five liters of storage.

A laptop up to 15 inches and a tablet may be stored in the PRVKE’s specialized compartments. A second pocket is included for your phone and/or sunglasses.

The bag has three access points for fast and easy access to your camera: the top, the rear, and the side.

Having a passport pocket is one of my favorite features. Since it is outside and in the back, it is convenient to access when necessary but difficult to pickpocket while carrying a bag since your body is hiding it.

The camera backpack may be worn on your back or used as a handbag depending on the circumstance, thanks to the magnetic tote handles.

This bag may be a personal item while flying since it fits neatly beneath the seat in front of you. It also comes in a 31L size. However, I have the PRVKE 21L.

Even though I admire this bag, I believe it is best suited for photographers who don’t have a lot of equipment or just need to carry what they need for a given task.

Additionally, this bag is large enough to hold your photographic equipment, so if you’re traveling, you must carry your clothes separately.

The following bag is my top recommendation if you want to travel with a lot of stuff or if you want to pack both your clothing and gear in one bag.

Nomatic McKinnon 35 Camera Bag

The ideal camera backpack can hold everything a photographer needs when traveling.

By itself, Nomatic is a top-notch backpack manufacturer. Nevertheless, they developed an incredible photography backpack when they collaborated with Peter McKinnon, one of the greatest and most well-known photographers on YouTube!

The Nomatic McKinnon 35 L Camera Bag is a completely travel backpack designed to hold all the equipment that photographers need to transport while being flexible and incredibly organized.

The bag’s design incorporates McKinnon’s attention to detail and obsession with organizing.

Your camera, lenses, batteries, filters, and other accessories are accessible from the main compartment. Similar to the PRVKE, there is side access for quick access to your camera while you’re on the road without opening the main compartment.

The Nomatic McKinnon includes a battery case, filter case, & memory card case, depending on your chosen bundle. Depending on how you organize your gear, these cases may be safely stowed in the main compartment or the rear see-through mesh pockets.

A 15-inch laptop, a tablet, and other papers may all fit in a separate side compartment on the Nomatic McKinnon bag.

The 35L capacity of this backpack is more than sufficient for carrying one or two camera bodies with a few lenses, hard drives, a laptop, and a small drone for most photographers.

A hip strap is also included with the bag to aid in equally dispersing the weight, but it is a lovely touch that it is quickly detachable (Velcro) when not required.

However, one of the finest features of this Nomatic bag is its expansion capacity, which can be increased to 42L to accommodate enough clothing for a journey lasting one to five days. This is one of my favorite aspects of this bag when I don’t want to carry two bags on a short trip.

It is still tiny enough to be a carry-on bag on a plane, even at 42L.

The Cube Pack is an included attachment, now my favorite aspect of this backpack.

If you don’t want to purchase the McKinnon backpack, at the very least, purchase the McKinnon Cube Pack separately. This is a compact 21L daypack that fits within the larger backpack, giving you the option to transport your camera and lens (or a drone) safely inside a day pack.

You won’t have to carry all of your things around if you don’t have to. Also, carrying this around all day is considerably lighter and simpler.

The Nomatic McKinnon backpack’s sole drawback, in my view, is that it pushes a little too far, particularly for someone as petite and short as I am.

Its 5.75-pound average weight is on the bigger side (but expected given the generous padding and size). So, when it’s full, your luggage may weigh between 15 and 25 pounds.

The Nomatic is my #1 pick for trips when I won’t have to trek with this, such as city trips. However, if I knew I was going trekking, I would probably just choose the McKinnon Cube and take it in my Gregory Z40 travel backpack.

It’s also important to point out that Nomatic unveiled the New Daily Camera Line, a 25L capacity product ideal for anyone seeking a middle ground between the 35L and the Cube.

Even though the 35L bag is one of the priciest choices on our list, the Nomatic McKinnon is a great pick for any photographer and is at the top of its game.

Monarc Settra Duffel 40L

Excellent, spacious carry-on bag constructed entirely of recycled plastic bottles.

Given that it is the world’s first certified plastic negative bag, the Settra stands out from the other bags on our list regarding sustainability and environmental concerns.

Why does this matter? Since 2020, Monarc has helped eliminate hundreds of thousands of plastic bottles from our seas and landfills thanks to the Settra, which is constructed from 50 recycled plastic bottles.

Beyond its positive environmental effect, the Settra is a great camera bag. It may be used as a duffel bag in addition to a backpack by altering the straps.

I have the gray Settra Series (bundle), which comes with a wash bag, a big and small compression pack, a camera cube, and a tech pack. One hundred recycled bottles total in each bundle.

It has enough compartments to arrange everything, and I like the style, which is contemporary, sleek, and extremely clean. Seriously, I was blown away by how many concealed compartments and storage areas this bag had. Featuring a cozy shoe storage area.

This water-resistant bag has 40 liters of capacity, making it large enough to fit everything in the bundle, along with your photography equipment, a 17-inch laptop, and enough clothing for a week (assuming you’re a light packer) and still pass as a TSA-approved carry-on.

This is a great bag for me to utilize if I need to carry many items while keeping them compact enough to fit in a carry-on.

And what could be better than having an effect by lessening your environmental footprint?

Brevite The Runner 18 L Backpack

Perfect for short excursions or running around the city with little luggage.

Given its deceptively compact size and ability to fit plenty of photography equipment and more in addition to other items, The Runner has been an unexpected addition to my collection of backpacks.

Because it seems to be a typical, well-designed backpack that any professional would use in the city, this is a small, smart camera backpack that can be used regularly.

It is practical, portable, and small. The Runner configures your camera equipment in an orderly manner using cushioned dividers.

The top half of the bag may be used to hold additional devices or extra clothing for a short weekend trip (if you’re a light packer – I’ve done it!). The camera compartment takes up the bottom half of the bag.

A Full Frame DSLR + 3 Lenses or a small drone (think DJI Mavic or smaller) with an additional lens and camera body may be stored in the bottom half thanks to its front and side zippers, which are both simple to reach.

The front bag is thoughtfully structured to carry your SD cards and other tiny papers. Additionally, the bag contains a difficult-to-pickpocket passport pocket that is “hidden.” It features a strap for a tripod holder outside.

A 16″ laptop fits well within the laptop bag. I was able to use the same bag to transport both an iPad Pro and a 13-inch Macbook Pro.

Warned you! This little purse may fool you.

Oh, and Brevity also offers The Jumper Backpack, their best-selling item, in addition to The Runner.

TropicFeel Shell 22L to 40L Backpack

Excellent Backpack if you want further add-ons and size flexibility.

I’ve been wearing TropicFeel shoes for a while, and I like them. They are designed to be worn when trekking, crossing rivers, or even on a casual night in the city since they are very light, strong, and manufactured from recyclable materials. Yes, they have a wide range of uses.

It’s not surprising that TropicFeel expanded its range of backpacks to include the same adaptability and environmentally friendly design. I’ve had a few excursions using their Shell bag, and I have to say that I adore it!

The Shell has a 22-liter capacity, which is ideal for day trips. Still, it can be expanded to a 40-liter capacity by using its attachable add-ons and hidden expandable pouch at the bottom (the best use I’ve found for this bottom pouch is to separate my dirty and clean clothes from the rest of my belongings).

To give you an idea, my “large” bag, which I used to live out when traveling across the globe, is 40L in size.

One of the best features of the Shell is that it has a “wardrobe” that allows you to arrange and carry up to 20% more clothing, but once you get there, you can take it off and hang it anywhere you like in your room.

This makes it easy to keep your items sorted and accessible.

The toiletry pocket, which fastens to the bag’s outside, is one of my favorite extras. Whether I’m using the Shell or not, this little toiletries bag has been my go-to option.

There is also the camera cube and tech bag to keep your camera equipment organized. The laptop compartment on the Backpack has enough for a 16-inch laptop and is waterproof.

I could say a lot more about this bag, but I suggest visiting their website for more information.

Thule Aspect DSLR Camera Backpack

An excellent camera bag for outdoor activities, including trekking.

A comfortable, reliable backpack like the Thule Aspect is a must if you anticipate trekking while carrying your photographic equipment.

The camera backpack from Thule, renowned for producing high-quality outdoor gear, is no exception. So it’s not surprising that their camera bag is a popular trekking option.

The instant I first saw the Backpack in the shop, I knew I had to buy it since it is so well made, in my view.

A DSLR camera with many lenses and accessories may fit the roomy, cushioned storage pocket. Additionally, there is space for a drone the size of a DJI Mavic Pro to be carried and a separate cushioned laptop storage pouch.

On extended excursions, a padded hip belt may be worn for increased support, but it can also be taken off if you think it would obstruct your movement in congested areas or when not required.

It contains a side pocket and straps to carry your tripod, much like any well-designed camera bag, and a front pocket with a quick-access zipper to keep food and essentials.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L

The best option for a general-purpose everyday camera bag.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack lives true to its name by being a perfect size—neither too huge, too tiny, or too pricey. It’s a great camera backpack for general daily usage since it has plenty of storage space without being too big.

I like the style of this camera bag. It is trendy, small, and quite urban. Additionally, it boasts excellent weatherproof zippers and a 400D nylon canvas exterior that is waterproof.

Because of its expanding nature, it just takes up the room you need. A full-frame DSLR camera body and three to four lenses can fit inside.

Computers up to 16 inches in length may fit within the inner protected laptop sleeve.

Three Flexfold Dividers are located inside to keep your camera and other equipment secure and organized while you’re traveling. These Flefold Dividers can be changed to provide the ideal room for your lenses, drone, or camera bodies.

You can reach your camera directly via a side panel, and within that panel is another pocket where you can keep your batteries and other accessories organized.

With the help of one of Peak Design’s camera attachments, you may attach a tripod and even your camera to the exterior.

This is a wonderful option if you’re searching for a tiny day bag with plenty of space!

Think Tank Photo Streetwalker Pro V2.0 Backpack

A simple and discreet camera backpack.

The Streetwalker Pro V2.0 has the nice feature of not necessarily seeming like a camera backpack. If you don’t want to draw attention to your carrying a lot of photographic gear, you’ll like the simple but really useful design.

Due to the lack of loops or straps that may tangle, this is a great option for urban picture sessions. Although there isn’t a waist strap, there is enough padding on the shoulder straps to keep you comfortable.

The bag allows you to completely remove the dividers to accommodate larger goods or use them as you see. The two-column internal pouch can accommodate two full-frame cameras, one facing up and the other facing down. Additionally, there is a place to attach a tripod and a tablet bag for up to ten-inch tablets.

Think Tank Photo Retrospective 30

Best messenger bag for cameras.

The roomy Think Tank Photo Retrospective 30 is your best option if you’re seeking something more casual-looking, compact enough, yet with enough capacity for your photography gear – the ideal option for someone who doesn’t want to carry a backpack.

Our travel camera bag is bigger than some of the earlier choices on this list, even though it seems smaller. A mirrorless camera and two or three extra lenses fit comfortably and securely in the main compartment, measuring 15″ x 6″ x 9.5″.

The Retrospective is still manageable to carry over your shoulder at 3.2 pounds.

Several more compartments provide space for all of your extra accessories, and features like the rain cover increase the usefulness of this bag.

The Retrospective 30 bag may seem plain and simple, but it is solidly built with a robust canvas to safeguard your equipment.

MindShift Gear Backlight 26L Outdoor Adventure Camera Daypack

A reliable camera bag with several uses.

If you want to take your photographic equipment on extended or multi-day trips, you’ll need more room for your stuff. In addition to the camera equipment, the MindShift Gear Backlight offers many front pockets with a 9L storage capacity.

The main compartment can accommodate a single normal-sized DSLR camera and up to six standard zoom lenses. A cushioned compartment with enough for a full-sized tablet and a laptop up to 15 inches is also included.

This camera backpack’s well-cushioned shoulder straps and back ventilation makes a long, hot day more bearable. There is a sternum strap and a cushioned waist belt for increased support.

If you enjoy the look of the Backpack but want even more storage capacity, MindShift also produces a 36L Backlight camera backpack. The 26L is a better choice if you want something that will fit under an aircraft seat.

Manfrotto Bumblebee-230 PL Camera Backpack

A camera bag of exceptional quality and style.

Another outstanding manufacturer of photographic equipment is Manfrotto, which offers tripods, stabilizers, camera bags, lights, and much more.

The Manfrotto Bumblebee receives high points for looks without a doubt. This camera backpack is elegant, fashionable, strong, and cozy. It is composed of a breathable fabric to keep it light while keeping all your stuff secure.

There are extra storage compartments for personal goods, the primary camera bag, and a strap for a professional tripod. A lens bag connected to the waist allows for simple lens switching while on a picture session. A laptop up to 17 inches may fit in the cushioned rear pocket.

If you are caught in a deluge, the Manfrotto Bumblebee comes with a rain cover. This is a wonderful alternative if you’re searching for a bigger camera bag for traveling because of the size and the spacious laptop compartment.

Other Manfrotto backpacks include the Aviator Drone Backpack for DJI Phantom, which I loved using when I had a DJI Phantom 4.

Lowepro Flipside 400 AW Pro Camera Backpack

A fantastic little camera bag.

Not to be forgotten: a Lowepro backpack! No top camera backpack list would be complete without Lowepro, as they are widely renowned for their high-quality photography backpacks.

If you don’t want something too large or heavy, the Lowepro Flipside 400 AW is a great choice. Although it may seem tiny from the outside, this bag can hold a fair number of equipment.

A DSLR camera, four lenses, and other equipment may fit in the main pocket. Similar to most camera backpacks, it is simple to add a tripod. The rear unzips for convenient access to your stuff and includes a front compartment for personal belongings.

SlipLock connectors on the Backpack’s exterior where you may hook on additional things if you need to carry more goods than the Backpack can accommodate. Even while a packed public transport may not be the best place for this, it can save you the additional bag you need.

Even though the Backpack is not waterproof, it comes with a rain cover that you may quickly cover the bag with in the event of an unexpected downpour. To assist balance the weight and improve comfort, the waist belts and shoulder straps are cushioned.

The Lowepro Flipside is an excellent option for photographers looking for a compact, reliable camera backpack at an affordable price.

About The Author

Cameron has been a photographer for over 10 years and has extensive experience with different types of cameras. He loves to travel and has been to many different parts of the world, photographing everything he sees along the way. Cameron is a natural teacher and loves to share his knowledge with others, helping them to capture stunning images of their own.This experience has meant that Cameron has had extensive hands-on experience with many different types and brands of cameras, lenses, and other gear, and he is now here to share this information with you.

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Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking and Adventure Travel (2024)

Photo Accessories , Gear

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• How we picked
• MindShift 26L
• Peak Design 30L
• Shimoda Explore
• MindShift 45L

Gitzo Adventury 45L

• WANDRD PRVKE 41L 
• ThinkTank 50L
• Lowepro Whistler
• WANDRD FERNWEH
• Lowepro PhotoSport
• How to choose the best for you
• 7 top features to consider
• 11 Essential packing tips

When it comes to nature photography, particularly when that photography is part of a larger outdoor adventure, one thing is clear: a reliable camera backpack is an absolute must.

However, picking a camera backpack that allows you to navigate through rugged terrain and unpredictable weather while ensuring the safety of your precious gear can be daunting.

Our mission? To help you find the best camera bag that is not just a storage space for your camera accessories while you're traveling but also functions well as a camera backpack for hiking.

From high-end to budget-friendly, from compact to spacious, we've scoured the market to find the best camera bags for hiking and adventure travel.

• How we picked the best camera backpacks

MindShift Gear BackLight 26L

Peak design everyday backpack 30l, shimoda explore v2 35 starter kit, mindshift gear backlight elite 45l.

• WANDRD PRVKE Camera Backpack 41L 
• ThinkTank Rotation Series 50L
• Lowepro Whistler BP 350 AW II

WANDRD FERNWEH Backpacking Bag 

• Lowepro PhotoSport Backpack PRO 70L AW III 

How to choose the best camera backpack for you

• 11 Essential tips for packing a camera backpack

How we picked the best camera backpacks for hiking

The best camera backpack is more than just a carrying case for your camera gear – it's an essential tool that can make or break your photography adventure. And here at the Conservation Visual Storytellers Academy, we're not just writers – we're experienced nature and wildlife photographers who've logged countless hours in the field. We've battled the elements, hiked up rugged trails, and navigated through dense forests, all with our cameras by our sides (or, technically, on our backs).

Our process of selecting the best camera backpacks blends our firsthand experiences, valuable insights from fellow professionals and industry experts, comprehensive editorial and user reviews, and specific details provided by camera backpack manufacturers.

In compiling our recommendations, we've aimed to cater to a variety of photography goals and budgets. We've considered factors like capacity, weight, durability, organization features, and how well these bags protect your camera gear. Our final lineup includes options for beginners dipping their toes in the world of photography and seasoned pros needing a reliable companion for their high-end gear.

And, though we've found that no single camera backpack meets every criterion for every type of photography need, below are quite a few that tick lots of the boxes for awesome.

For advice on what to consider in a camera backpack and how to choose the right one for you, use the table of contents to jump to those sections.

Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking and Adventure Travel: Our Reviews & Recommendations

Best for pros or amateurs looking for a camera backpack that gets rave reviews from users of all types

• Designed for easy back access without taking off pack
• Flexible and expandable options for tripods and extra poles and camera equipment or hiking gear
• 9 L additional gear storage available
• Works well as a carry-on bag
• Not adjustable for different torso lengths

SPECIFICATIONS

• External Dimensions: 11.4 x 7.9 x 20.3″
• Volume:  26L
• Weight:  3.9 lbs
• Laptop Compartment:  Yes, 10 x 1 x 15.3″
• Tripod Holder: Yes
• Weather Resistance:  Exterior fabric is abrasion-resistant and has a durable water-repellent coating, plus the underside of the fabric has a polyurethane coating. Plus, a seam-sealed rain cover is included.
• What It Holds: Adjustable padded dividers provides space for one standard-size DSLR camera body and 4-6 standard zoom lenses, plus a flash

WHAT WE THINK Without hesitation, this is one of our go-to recommendations for a camera backpack for any reason. So, of course it's one of our top choices for a day hiking camera backpack.

Though the volume isn't the biggest around, the functional design is exceptional. It's designed with the needs of a nature photographer in mind, and it shows in every detail.

From the adjustable dividers that accommodate large telephoto lenses, traditional photo gear, or hiking gear to the top zippered pocket that allows for easy access to essentials, it's on of the best camera backpacks around, especially for the price.

BEST PRICES

Best for those looking for a sleek camera bag that's equally impressive as a hiking backpack

• Easy side access
• Expandable size
• Inconspicuous design
• Hip belt available only as an accessory
• External Dimensions: 13 x 10.6 x 19.1″
• Volume:  30L
• Weight:  4.65 lbs
• Laptop Compartment:  Yes: 15″ laptop or 16″ MacBook Pro
• Weather Resistance:  100% recycled 400D weatherproof shell. Rain cover not included.
• What It Holds: Two mirrorless or DSLR camera bodies plus 3-4 extra lenses and accessories

WHAT WE THINK

The use of recycled materials and the selling of pre-owned gear on their site really pulls on our conservationist heart strings.

We love the company's environmental ethos and were already fans of the original pack, but the newly revamped version really shines.

It's built around easy access, photography gear organization, and camera equipment protection. With fast top access, dual side access, and the three configurable FlexFold dividers inside, your gear is safe and accessible.

The bag has significant external carrying capacity thanks to a versatile tuck-away strap system and expandable side pockets. We hate to play favorites, but this camera backpack makes that kind of tough.

Best for travel and day hikes requiring a long lens

• Large camera compartment to carry long lenses and two bodies
• Multiple torso lengths and shoulder strap options for optimal fit
• Sized as carry-on bag with TSA lock-friendly zippers
• Hydration bladder compatible
• Comes with a medium insert, but a large insert might be better for wildlife photographers
• Insert reduces space available from top roll-up section
• External Dimensions:  11.6 x 7.8 x 21.2″
• Volume:  35L
• Weight:  4.4 lbs
• Laptop Compartment:  Yes: fits 16″ laptop
• Weather Resistance:  Water-resistant nylon. Rain cover included.
• What It Holds: Built to pack mirrorless and DSLR cameras, even those with a vertical grip. For example, can hold two DSLR bodies with grips or mirrorless, one large lens.

We're so impressed with the Shimoda Explore V2 35 as a travel camera bag – with its thoughtfully incorporated lockable zippers for added security, a concealed passport pocket, and a luggage pass-through handle – that we sometimes forget what a stellar hiking camera backpack it also is.

Accessing your gear is easy with the rear and side access points, ensuring you never miss a shot. The modular camera inserts provide shockproof protection for your camera setup and offer layout flexibility that adapts to your needs.

Combine this with quick-deploying pockets on both sides for a water bottle, tripod, or other hiking gear, and you've got a camera backpack that's as practical as it is protective.

Best for those wanting to get into the backcountry for a few days with a sturdy and reliable hiking camera bag

• Spacious enough for a four-day trek with all your pro gear
• Easy back panel access
• Stormproof construction
• Includes room for hydration
• Honestly... we don't have any for this pack
• External Dimensions:  11.4 x 7.9 x 20.3″
• Volume:  45L
• Laptop Compartment:  Yes: fits a 17″ laptop and a 10″ tablet
• Weather Resistance:  Stormproof construction with YKK® AquaGuard® zippers and waterproof and tear-proof Sailcloth and waterproof, heavy-duty Tarpaulin base. Seam-sealed rain cover included.
• What It Holds: Holds 2 standard-size camera bodies and 4-7 standard zoom lenses plus a flash

We really appreciate the roominess of this camera backpack overall, plus the extra space provided by the front pockets.

One of the standout features of this camera bag is its customizable dividers that allow you to maximize space for camera storage or hiking gear.

The carrying capacity is also increased by the inclusion of a daisy chain, ice axe loops, and additional lash points.

The padded waist strap provides all-day comfort, and the quick-fit adjustment allows for rapid and convenient fitting, while an adjustable neck strap keeps the back panel against your chest, providing unencumbered access to your gear.

Considering the build and the capacity, this is easily a top-ranked favorite for any nature photographer needing a rugged, reliable pack for their gear that's also comfortable to wear.

Best for folks looking for a heavy-duty hiking camera backpack for big gear that can masquerade as a regular ol' backpack

• Designed for pro photography gear
• Doesn't look like a camera bag
• Accessible through the back
• DSLR camera with 600mm fits tight, so little wiggle room for wildlife photographers keeping a lens attached
• A little on the heavier side
• External Dimensions:  13.8 x 8.7 x 21.7″
• Weight:  6.8 lbs
• Laptop Compartment:  Yes: fits a 15″ laptop
• Weather Resistance:  Coated zippers, water repellent fabric, and coated bottom enable you to use the bag in humid environments. Rain cover also included.
• What It Holds: Pro DSLR with up to 600 mm f/4 telephoto lens attached, plus a second camera with lens attached and additional lenses. The interchangeable dividers allow it to also fit a DJI Phantom Drone plus remote and a camera with lens attached and additional lens and accessories

Though somewhat on the pricier side, the thoughtful design and practical features of the Gitzo Adventury 45 L make it one of the best camera backpacks available.

The camera bag's roomy, feature-rich design makes it perfect for carrying a full camera gear kit while the removable camera compartment can transform this versatile pack into an everyday outdoor backpack.

The adjustable and removable waist belt comes with an ample pocket for additional accessories, the side infinity pocket expands for extra space, the bottom zip allows for storage of a long tripod or accessory, and the multi-link straps can connect a big tripod or other accessories on the front and side by simply changing the configuration of the daisy chain… Bascially, they thought of everything!

WANDRD PRVKE Camera Backpack 41L (with Pro Photography Bundle)

Best for the trend-setter travel photographer who appreciates a well-equipped, sturdy bag

• Quick side and back access
• Customizable, removable camera storage
• Fleece lined pocket for electronics
• Range of size and photography package options available
• Great travel backpack, but not our favorite hiking backpack
• Rainfly sold separately
• External Dimensions:  12.5 x 9 x 21”
• Volume:  46L
• Weight:  3.7 lbs
• Laptop Compartment:  Yes: fits a 13″ laptop
• Weather Resistance:  Weather resistant material and zippers. Rainfly sold separately.
• What It Holds: Depends on the camera cube you select – the Essential camera cube, or the Pro camera cube. For example, the Essential Fits one camera body and 2 to 4 lenses. Meanwhile, the Pro fits up to 2 camera bodies and 4 to 6 lenses, including larger lenses. It can also fit a drone.

This relatively lightweight bag packs quite a bit! The new PRVKE camera backpack brings significant enhancements to an already stellar product with a redesigned back panel and shoulder straps to accommodate a variety of body shapes and sizes, while the new luggage pass-through strap augments the bag's versatility, making it an ideal companion for travel photography.

The fleece-lined pocket has been repositioned for better accessibility and quick access to gear is facilitated by the removal of the liner flap covering the Camera Cube compartment.

And, like all PRVKE products, this one is sleek and trendy.

We also love the 31L version (with the photography bundle, of course). This is a great option if you are focused on landscapes or macro and don’t need to fit telephoto lenses

Think Tank Rotation Series 50L+

Best for photographers looking to access their camera fast while on a shoot

• Handy rotating separate camera compartment offers quick access
• Interior can be modified to carry extra camera gear including 100-600 zoom
• Expandable roll up top for heavy jackets
• Daisy chains and extra straps for gear such as poles and ice ax
• Rain cover not included
• On the pricier side

 SPECIFICATIONS

• External Dimensions:  24 x 13.8 x 11.8″ (when not expanded)
• Volume:  50L
• Weight:  6.2 lbs
• Weather Resistance:  Exterior fabric is coated on both sides with a durable water-repellant coating. Construction includes YKK® AquaGuard and RC Fuse zippers, 100D high-tenacity Triple Ripstop material, and 1680D nylon ballistic bottom panel.
• What It Holds: Bottom camera pack holds a gripped mirrorless or DSLR kit with three to five lenses or one ungripped camera with a 70-200mm f/2.8 attached

We can't praise the convenience of the ThinkTank's rotation feature enough.

It provides immediate access to your camera allowing users to keep their backpack on, saving time and sustaining creative momentum during shoots. You can go from stowed to shooting in just 3 seconds.

The camera bag's versatility with its detachable waist belt pack, perfect for light travel or quick shoots also helps it stand out from the crowd.

Overall, this is one of the best camera bags out there.

Lowepro Whistler 350 AW II

Best for active users looking for a lighter weight, smaller capacity camera bag

• Made with 100% recycled materials
• Flexible configuration will accommodate a long lens with body attached
• Breathable materials
• Dedicated laptop sleeve
• Camera box insert is extra for an already relatively pricey bag
• External Dimensions:  11.4 x 9.4 x 20.9″
• Volume:  33L
• Weight:  5.8 lbs
• Laptop Compartment:  Yes, fits a 13″ laptop
• Weather Resistance:  420 Nylon Ripstop with TPU/PU dual laminate provides robust abrasion and tear resistance plus waterproofing. Includes an all weather cover to protect gear from rain, snow, and dust
• What It Holds: DSLR or pro mirrorless body with 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached, up to six lenses

This 4-season ultra-resistant camera backpack designed to carry equal parts camera equipment and hiking gear, with a front pocket that expands to fit essentials and a waterproof barrier with a drain hole to separate wet gear from the main compartment.

Plus, for our cold-weather photography friends, we're quite impressed with the ability to attach skis and ice tools to the sides without restricting access to the main compartment.

Though on the more expensive end for the volume, this sturdy camera bag is versatile and comfortable, making it worth the investment for those who can swing it.

Best for those looking for a durable and stylish camera backpack for hiking

• Four points of access
• Dedicated water bladder pocket
• Breathable material everywhere it touches your body
• Multiple sizes and strap adjustment options to accommodate different body types
• Small laptop compartment considering the volume
• External Dimensions:  13.75 x 9.5 x 25” (S/M), 13.75 x 9.5 x 26” (M/L)
• Weight:  5 lbs
• Weather Resistance:  Weather resistant material and YKK weather resistant zippers. Rainfly sold separately.
• What It Holds: The Pro Deep Camera Cube (recommended for this pack) can fit a DSLR and lens, red cinema body, three medium lenses, and one small lens. Essential Deep Camera Cube fits one camera body and 2 to 4 lenses

There is so much to love about this pack, but, ultimately, it's that WANDRD style that makes us swoon.

Our practical side appreciates the durability of the materials, the four access points to the main body of the bag allowing for convenient access to all your gear from multiple angles, and the thoughtful inclusion of a removable bucket to segment gear.

The pack really does standout as both a camera bag for nature photographers and a hiking backpack for a backtracking trip. You pay for that snazzy style with a higher price point than other packs, but this camera backpack is undeniably a solid blend of functionality and durability, and a worthy companion for any photography adventure.

Lowepro PhotoSport Backpack PRO 70L AW III (M-L)

Best for hikers heading out on a multi-day photography adventure

• Good camera bag with room for your camping gear
• Easy access to camera
• Separate pull-out bag for gear
• Made of recycled materials
• Not large enough for long prime lens
• No dedicated laptop compartment
• External Dimensions:  16.1 x 14.2 x 31.5″
• Volume:  70L
• Weight:  7.1 lbs
• Laptop Compartment:  No
• Weather Resistance:  420D Nylon Oxford and 420D Nylon Diamond Ripstop with carbonate exterior. Includes an all weather cover to protect gear from rain, snow, and dust
• What It Holds: CSC/DSLR with grip, 70-200/2.8 attached and two extra lenses

With its capacity to fit enough photography and camping gear for overnight adventures, the LowePro PhotoSport Backpack PRO 70L AW III is ideal for backcountry trips.

The removable camera insert and accessory strap system provide multiple options for finding a comfortable carrying configuration for all users.

Their harness system further increases comfort by distributing the weight of the pack.

We'd like to see a laptop sleeve, especially for getting post-processing work done while “on the road,” but other that, we're pretty pleased with this camera backpack.

Let's start by saying no camera backpack is perfect. Also, everyone and every photographer is different!

One person might most value a comfortable camera backpack with a padded hip belt and well-padded shoulder straps, while someone else needs enough space for a variety of lenses. It also depends if you're going on a day hike or a full-on backpacking trip.

Needs are always variable, and what works for one person might not work for another.

So, take your time as you consider which criteria are most important to you when deciding on a travel camera backpack that can carry more than just your camera.

Photo: encierro/Shutterstock

What makes a great camera backpack for hiking? 7 top features to consider

1. accessibility.

Convenient and quick camera access is essential. Having gear neatly tucked away is useless if you've just spotted a special bird or animal and you can't easily get your gear in hand in time to catch the action. That's why we value camera backpacks with multiple access points to get to your camera kit.

2. Customizable

Every camera backpack should include a padded, removable camera compartment to protect delicate camera equipment. Ideally the padded compartment includes flexible dividers so you can arrange it to fit whatever gear you take.

3. Extra Space

Whether you're on a plane or out in the woods, your pack also needs enough space for other gear to facilitate outdoor adventures. If you're traveling, you might need your laptop so make sure the camera bag you choose has dedicated laptop storage or if you're on the trail, you'll need to pack water, hiking gear, or a sleeping bag for overnight backpacking trips.

Beyond these basics, keep in mind that if you don't get a pack that fits you comfortably, you probably won't use it. The best hiking camera backpack should take the load off your back and be comfortable to wear and walk in. Look for padded shoulder straps and an easily adjustable hip belt.

5. Weather Resistance

To keep your camera gear safe, check that the camera bag is made of water-resistant fabric and if it includes added protection like a cover for rain.

Many camera backpacks designed for camera gear can be quite expensive, but there are great camera bag options available for any budget. Having a budget in mind will help you narrow your search as you can easily identify which camera backpacks fit in your price range, then look at features from there.

And, let's face it, if a backpack doesn't look good to you, are you really going to want to wear it? If that's your thing, look for a stylish and versatile camera backpack that provides ample storage space for all your equipment.

Considerations for women

Even today, most hiking camera backpacks are designed for men and then adapted for women. Often, packs designed for men sit too low on the hips for women, resulting in unbalanced weight distribution. Women who are petite, have narrow shoulders, are curvy – whatever their body type – need to look for camera bags that fit well and are adjustable for the most comfortable fit. We've created a guide specifically for women looking for a great camera bag.  

Recommended:  Check out our gear guides on top cameras, lenses and accessories for what to put IN your awesome new camera backpack.

Photo: Africa Studio/Shutterstock

11 Essential tips for packing a camera backpack for landscape or wildlife photography

So, you've chosen the perfect camera backpack for you, and you're stoked to get out there on a hike and photograph wildlife.

Before you can do that, you need to pack your gear.

Problem: when you look at the huge pile of gear you want to take, then look at your backpack… you might notice that packing will be a bit of a puzzle to solve!

Here's where some savvy planning will help.

❂ Choosing Gear to Pack

1. prioritize your essentials.

Not every piece of equipment you own needs to be in your backpack. Start by identifying the essentials. This typically includes your camera body, a versatile lens such as a 70-200mm for close-ups and a wider lens for landscapes, spare batteries, memory cards, and a tripod.

2. Consider Your Subject and Environment

The type of wildlife you're photographing and the environment you'll be in should influence your gear choices.

For instance, if you're shooting birds, a telephoto lens is an absolute must . That'll take up a lot of room in your pack, and you may need to decide on just one telephoto lens plus an extender, rather than two lenses.

Meanwhile, suppose you're focused on landscape photography. In that case, you may want to bring several wide-angle lenses and a variety of filters to ensure you have what you need, whether you're photographing sunrises and sunsets , the night sky , or other challenging conditions. Or, if you're bringing a drone for those aerial shots , so you might need to minimize your lens choices for your DSLR or mirrorless camera body.

Odds are, you won't be focused on BOTH birds and landscapes, so decide on your priorities and go from there.

❂ Maximizing the Space Available

3. use lens pouches and camera inserts.

These can help you organize your gear within the backpack and maximize space. They also provide additional protection for your equipment.

4. Roll Your Clothes

If you're carrying clothes in your camera backpack, roll them instead of folding. This can save a lot of space and prevent wrinkles.

5. Utilize External Straps

Many camera backpacks come with external straps. These can be used to attach bulky items like tripods or water bottles, freeing up space inside the backpack. Watching the Weight Distribution

6. Keep the Heaviest Items Close to Your Back

When packing, make sure the heaviest items are closest to your back. This helps in maintaining balance and reduces strain on your shoulders. Utilize the chest strap, which most camera backpacks have, to help distribute the weight even more and protect your posture.

7. Make Frequently Used Items Easily Accessible

Items like memory cards, batteries, and your camera should be easy to reach. Many camera bags have specific compartments for these items, such as an internal pocket that's easy to reach.

❂ Essentials Besides Camera Gear

8. don't forget personal items.

Remember to pack essentials like snacks, a first-aid kit, and any necessary personal medications. A multi-tool can also be handy for unexpected repairs. Most camera backpacks have a water bottle pocket on the side, and for good reason! Be sure to take plenty of water in the field with you.

9. Pack for the Weather

Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. This could mean packing a rain cover for your backpack, warm clothing, or sunblock. Protecting Your Gear

10. Use Rain Covers and Lens Caps

These not only protect your gear from the elements but also from dust and scratches.

11. Consider Using Silica Gel Packs

These can be placed in your bag to absorb moisture and protect your gear from fungus – a common issue in humid environments.

With these tips in mind, packing your camera backpack for wildlife photography should be a breeze. Remember, the key to successful packing is to prioritize, organize, and protect your gear. Happy shooting!

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve also fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be—the difference is noticeable—and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. But if you think you would struggle carrying this model, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

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February 26, 2022

ACT NOW! SAVE UKRAINE. DEFEND DEMOCRACY.

Team Skylum

Photography

At 5 am on February 24, Russia began the full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. They are violently trying to steal our country.

Russian forces have invaded Ukraine, confirming our worst fears. At this very hour they are attacking us on the streets of many Ukrainian cities.  We are at war.

Skylum was proudly founded in Ukraine, and our core development center is based in Kyiv. At this harrowing time, unfortunately we cannot guarantee the on-time delivery of updates to Luminar Neo. We strive for excellence in everything we do, and we will make sure to further develop and improve Neo and to keep you updated on any news. 

However, today we ask our community for help and support. Here are some details on what has happened and how you can support Ukraine in this difficult time.

!   At 5 am on February 24, Russia began the full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. They are violently trying to steal our country.

! Right now, there are missile strikes and bombardment of peaceful Ukrainian cities.   We must hide our families in bomb shelters and protect our land with weapons in our hands as part of the territorial defense forces.

! This disastrous and entirely unprovoked Russian war has already taken the lives of 198 civilians. 33 children have been injured, and 3 have been killed.

! The Armed Forces of Ukraine, young and brave heroes, are fighting all over the country not only for Ukraine but for Peace and Clear Skies in Europe. 

As we write to you from a city under attack, we want to be very clear: This war is not just something you see on TV. It is not happening in some distant lands. It is happening right now here in Ukraine, and the Russian forces who are invading our lands and threatening our families may come to your doorstep one day too if we do not stop them.

Sanctions that world governments are currently imposing are not enough. Russia must be completely isolated from all spheres of the civilized world: the financial system, technologies, sports, culture.  

Here is a list of simple actions you can take to help Ukraine. We MUST unite to quite literally save the world before it’s too late:

- Contact your local representatives and pressure them to provide more support for Ukraine and stricter sanctions on Russia. We need military and humanitarian aid and Russia must be cut off from SWIFT.

- Donate money to humanitarian aid organizations. Find a full list over here:  https://how-you-can-support-ukraine.super.site/  

- Follow the news from official channels. Avoid fake news and disinformation!

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa  

https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba  

https://twitter.com/Hromadske  

https://twitter.com/DefenceU  

https://twitter.com/backandalive  

Telegram:  https://t.me/Forbes_Ukraine_official  

- Support the Ukrainian Army —  Official Account of the National Bank of Ukraine

We stand together

Please share this information with your community.

#Ukrainians #NATO #Ukraine #StandWithUkraine

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What are you looking for?

15 best camera backpacks of 2024 [for all budgets].

If you're passionate about improving your travel photography , then a proper camera backpack is a must-have.

But let's face it, there are a LOT of choices out there.

And the truth of the matter is this ... there isn't a single BEST backpack to suit everyone.

That's why we wanted to put together a guide that gives you an overview of not only the options, but also why each one might be good for your final travel packing list .

As well as offering a number of backpacks for different budgets; to help those not looking to break the bank.

And don't worry, all of these top picks come with hundreds (if not thousands) of trusted reviews.

Let's get stuck in!

Travellerspoint

How To Choose The Best Backpack For Cameras

Just as you wouldn’t rush out to buy the very first camera you see without doing your research, the same goes for camera backpacks.

You’ll need to think about its size, weight, material, and more.

Here's a breakdown of what factors you should be considering ...

1. Size & Weight

Camera backpacks come in various sizes and capacities and therefore vary in weight too. You’ll want to think about the size of backpack you need based on the type of camera you have and the accessories you typically bring with it. 

For professionals with several accessories, you may want to go for a larger bag to have more room for extra lenses, batteries, even travel drones and other equipment. Bear in mind though that typically, the larger the bag, the heavier it will weigh.

While for plane travellers, aside from considering more compact options, you should also bear in mind the carry on size limit from airlines (usually around 22cm x 35cm x 56cm, including handles and wheels).

2. Compartments

Compartments should also be near the top of your considerations list. You can find bags with varying compartment sizes and quantities. Think about the size of your camera and accessories to determine which size and number of compartments you need to look for. 

Remember, you’ll likely need to store cables, extra batteries, the camera body itself, lenses, GoPro/other action camera , and more. Some bags come with specialist compartments for particular items to keep them best secured and safe.

Think about whether you’ll want to store some items externally for easier access and also about how easily you can access the compartments, in general, to ensure you always get the shot in time.

If you’re unsure of what size compartments to choose, you can also find bags with adjustable compartments that can be custom fitted to your items.

3. Material And Durability

A good quality material for your backpack is important and it should be strong and durable. Be sure to eye not only its outside material but also its interior, bottom, straps, and padding. Always make sure the seams are well sewn and rugged.

It’s pretty important to choose a waterproof and dustproof bag. Look for a bag that offers shock resistance if you think you’ll need it, although this is always nice to have.

4. Waterproof

As mentioned, a waterproof bag is definitely the best option to look for, especially if you're packing for somewhere like Ireland , which has very unpredictable weather. You never know when you might get caught in the rain, plus waterproof bags also provide protection from accidental spillages.

Also, think about the bag’s seams and zips since moisture can still seep through these and reach your camera and accessories. Some bags guarantee that their seams and zippers are waterproof too. This was key for us in our search; after all we spent a lot of money on our blogging camera and tend to visit a lot of wet and rainy locations. So all picks below are designed for use in all kinds of weather.

Camera backpacks can be single or double strapped. Double strapped backpacks are typically larger, and sometimes have waist straps for extra support. If you're packing for somewhere like Bali and you plan to do a lot of hiking to epic picture spots, then this is important.

Smaller single strap bags are great for those only wanting to bring a few accessories, smaller cameras/lenses, and generally lighter loads. However, with only one strap you might find that these bags place more strain on your shoulder.

With single strap bags, it’s fairly easy to access all compartments without taking the bag off which you will have to do with a double strap bag.

15 Of The Best Camera Backpacks

 1. lowepro protactic 450 - best overall camera backpack.

Weight: 2.7 kg

Dimensions: 36 x 22 x 52 cm

Capacity: –

Laptop Compartment: 15 inch

First up is Lowepro’s double strap Protactic 450 , probably the best travel camera backpack – thanks to its armoured body and thick padding, both your camera and its accessories are securely protected inside.

It’s a great backpack for camera gear as it’s made with flexible dividers for a more snug fit for all your gear.

Designed with Activzone technology and a convertible utility belt, this bag’s just perfect if you’re looking for comfortable backpack camera bags. It ensures comfort for both shoulders and waist even after long hours of wearing.

Protactic 450’s cradle fit pocket helps make this a great laptop backpack too, securely storing laptops up to 15 inches.

This bag is the perfect companion for use anywhere and everywhere as it comes with a protective all-weather cover, a utility pouch, bottle and tripod holders, and two quick to lock straps.

The Protactic 450 is easily our top choice for camera backpacks and it’s really worth at least taking a look – just click the link above.

Pros of the Lowepro Protactic 450

• Adaptive, flexible dividers
• Multiple zipped pockets for smaller accessories 
• All weather cover protection against rain, sand, and even dust

Cons of the Lowepro Protactic 450

• No side access to the main compartment

2. Tropicfeel Shell - Best backpacking bag with camera space

Weight: 1.5 kg

Dimensions: 19 x 30 x 51 cm

Capacity: 22-40L

Laptop Compartment: None

If you want only the very best camera backpack for travel, then check out Tropicfeel’s Shell Backpack . As long as you’re prepared to spend a bit more, this bag is arguably one of the best investments you can make for your camera and gear ( this is my camera backpack! ).

Really, the Shell isn't particularly geared towards cameras exactly, but more as a general backpack. But what sets it apart is how well it expands from its smallest 22L capacity to 30L, and all the way up to 40L – this makes it ideal to bring along wherever you go and use it for practically any activity or occasion.

Along with the bag itself, you also get a camera cube. The camera cube includes velcro dividers so you can securely keep your camera snug and protected inside the bag.

You can of course remove the camera cube entirely but it’s nice to have the option of double protection for your camera.

Plus, the Shell backpack is designed with a hip belt and an adjustable sternum strap for better distribution of the load.

What makes me adore this brand even more is how they make their products from recycled waste, so it's an eco-friendly, sustainable backpack choice .

I looked high and low to find the ideal backpack with camera compartment before settling on the Tropicfeel Shell. I can honestly say I’ve had no complaints with the product and I’ve never felt more reassured that my camera is safe and secure.

Pros of the Tropicfeel Shell

• Expandable capacity - great as an all-round backpack
• Sustainable product and brand
• Weatherproof material
• Great support through its straps and belt

Cons of the Tropicfeel Shell

• No built-in laptop compartment

3.  WANDRD PRVKE Lite - Best Compact Camera Backpack

Weight: 1.1 kg (2.5 lbs)

Dimensions: 16"H X 11"W X 5.5"D

Capacity: 11L to 16L (roll top expanded)

Laptop Compartment: 14 inch 

WANDRD is best known for their PRVKE Series, and the PRVKE Lite is their most affordable and compact camera backpack.

It's urban and funky with a very cool feel, as the design is quite simple but still has a lot of character.

Made of waterproof materials and weather-resistant zippers, plus featuring tons of organisation features and dividers, this is the perfect bag for the creatives who are constantly on the move.

It comes with a fleece-lined top pocket for quick access to your phone, sunglasses, or other fragile items.

There's also a laptop sleeve that can fit up to a 14-inch laptop.

The compact size adds to the feeling that all your gear is well-secured, although the smaller 11L capacity might be a drawback if you need to pack a lot. However, the roll top can be expanded and turn the capacity to 16L!

Overall, this is a very well-designed all-rounder backpack that can carry your cameras well.

Pros of the WANDRD PRVKE Lite

• Waterproof material with weather-proof zippers
• Great organisation and dividers
• Compact and stylish
• Comfortable

Cons of the WANDRD PRVKE Lite

• Relatively small capacity
• Accessory straps must be purchased as add-ons

4. Peak Design Everyday Backpack

Weight: 1.32

Dimensions: 51 x 33 x 20 cm

Capacity: 12-20L

Laptop Compartment: 16 inch

A good camera backpack for everyday use is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack . With its expandable capacity design, you can carry up to 4 lenses along with your camera body and other accessories like a DSLR camera gimbal .

It has three Flexfold dividers that can hold and secure your camera and lenses as well as a hidden tripod carry strap on its exterior. 

It has side body access on both sides – the perfect everyday backpack since it’s constructed using a weatherproof material with MagLatch hardware for added security.

Pros of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack

• Weatherproof outer material
• Compatible for luggage carry – perfect for travel
• Secure latching

Cons of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack

• A bit pricey

5. WANDRD All-New PRVKE

Weight: 1.3 kg (2.8 lbs)

Dimensions: 17"H X 11"W X 6.5"D

Capacity: 21L to 25L (with roll top expanded)

Laptop Compartment: 14 inch

The All-New PRVKE bag by WANDRD is perfect if you want a transformable bag that you can also use as a regular travel backpack. Simply remove the camera cubes!

The support and comfort of both the back panel and shoulder straps are amazing, which will make carrying your gear around a breeze.

It comes with incredible organisation and tech features too, from a secure passport pocket and external straps to an expandable water bottle or tripod pocket.

Basically, there's a lot to adapt with and the option to turn it into creative work mode backpack, perfect for the travelling photographer or travel blogger!

In terms of capacity, this bag in itself offers 21L of storage, but you can expand the roll top and get up to 25L.

Pros of the All-New PRVKE

• Removable camera cubes
• Clamshell opening
• Magnetic tote handles
• Expandable roll top

Cons of the All-New PRVKE

• Camera cubes are not built-in

6. Moment Everything Backpack - 28L Weekender w/ 8L Insert

Weight: 2.4 lbs (1090g)

Dimensions: 20” x 12.4” x 6.9”

Laptop Compartment: 16”

For a versatile, high performance camera backpack you can also use for travelling, check out the Moment 28L Weekender w/ 8L Insert Everything Backpack .

It’s easy to transform the bag to be ready for camera work as well as for a longer weekend.

You might also like: Best Anti-Theft Bags For Travel

The materials are strong, featuring extra tight weave 420D Nylon fabric, which you usually see on high-quality outdoor bags. This makes it very tough and durable.

In addition to the water-resistant treatment, AquaGuard YKK zippers, and zipper covers, you can be sure that all your cameras and gear are well-protected.

The backpack itself has a clamshell opening , which makes packing and unpacking much easier. Meanwhile, the fast access on the top and side of the bag is great for taking out things whilst on-the-go.

There are also a hidden pocket for your passport, a tech pocket, and other compartments to keep your items organized.

The 8L camera insert has a soft exterior padding and padded dividers, as well as Velex fabric on the interior to protect the screens and glass on your camera and lenses.

If you have a smaller camera or fewer gear, you can also opt for the 4L camera insert with this 28L Weekender.

Finally, the comfort level is incredible!

It comes with contoured adjustable straps, two layer foam padding, a removable sternum strap, a three layer back panel, and breathable air panel.

Pros of the 28L Weekender w/ 8L Insert

• Versatile organization
• Tough, rugged materials
• Travel ready
• Very comfortable padding and airflow
• You can also opt for the 4L camera insert

Cons of the 28L Weekender w/ 8L Insert

• Only 1 colour option

7. Vanguard Alta Fly 55T

Weight: 3.86kg

Dimensions: 34.62 x 54.94 x 21.92 cm

For professionals who love to travel and are looking for a quality backpack, check out Vanguard’s Alta Fly 55T . It’s made to last for years – thanks to its water and scratch resistant, durable materials.

Its three point security system is what makes it the best for travel – no more worrying about easy to open zippers while you’re walking around.

Designed with pull out straps, you can use it either as a trolley or a backpack – whichever way suits your needs best at the time. It’s definitely one of, if not the best travel camera backpacks for both protection and security.

Pros of the Vanguard ALTA FLY 55T

• Three point system for maximum security
• Well padded and fully customisable
• Works as a trolley or a backpack

Cons of the Vanguard ALTA FLY 55T

• Waist strap is not padded
• Wheels aren’t removable

8. Vanguard VEO Select 

Weight: 1.66kg

Dimensions: 33.97 x 20.64 x 51.28 cm

Vanguard’s VEO Select backpack can be worn both as a backpack and a shoulder bag with its main compartment featuring various access points – top, side, and full rear access allowing you to reach whatever you need with little effort.

Importantly, it’s also very comfortable to wear and carry thanks to its padded shoulder straps and tuckable harness . Not only is your gear protected, but so are you – forget about a sore back or shoulders.

This bag is a suitable size for plane travel and can be secured atop a suitcase. Plus, the material at the bottom of Vanguard’s VEO Select is scratch and water resistant.

Pros of the Vanguard VEO SELECT

• Two carrying options – backpack and shoulder bag
• Affordable compared to other similar camera backpacks
• Carry on compatible

Cons of the Vanguard VEO SELECT

• Strap quality could be better

9.  Think Tank Photo Urban Approach

Weight: 1.3kg

Dimensions:  28 x 46.5 x 18 cm

For mirrorless camera users, you’ll definitely want to think about Think Tank’s Photo Urban Approach backpack. Designed especially for mirrorless cameras and gear, this bag has a pretty huge capacity – it can hold 1-2 camera bodies and up to 8 extra lenses!

While it has an impressive capacity, this backpack is made to be slim as well as professional looking. On top of all, it’s constructed with premium quality materials to ensure comfort when wearing and durability overall.

Think Tank’s bag can be used as a carry on bag and has a handle that you can use to secure it to your luggage. 

Pros of the Think Tank Photo Urban Approach

• On the affordable side
• Includes a rain cover and a bottle pocket
• Suitable as a carry on bag 

Cons of the Think Tank Photo Urban Approach

• Limited for only mirrorless cameras – not suitable for DSLRs
• Tripod pocket is tough to stretch

10. Lowepro Freeline

‍ Weight: 2 kg

Dimensions: 29.3 x 20.8 x 48.7 cm

The Lowepro Freeline has a stylish, minimalist look and the body is made of a high-grade, rugged material that protects from weather and abrasion. 

The main compartment is uniquely designed with a divider that you can unfold to form a 3-level shelf for organising your gear. Or, you can lay it flat by snapping it into place. It also includes secure storage for travel laptops of up to 15 inches. 

Plus, it features lateral dividers for perfect fits for smaller accessories and it has dual side access to the main compartment. All this makes the Lowepro Freeline an amazingly versatile bag that can be used again and again for years to come.

Pros of the Lowepro Freeline 

• Water & abrasion resistant external material
• ActivZone back panel for even support and comfort
• Unique, clever interior design and additional dividers

Cons of the Lowepro Freeline 

• Heavier than other bags

11. Manfrotto Advanced Tri Backpack

Weight: 1.27 kg

Dimensions: 33.02 x 25.91 x 45.97 cm

Laptop Compartment: 15.4 inch

The thing we love about great camera backpacks is their versatility – a quality the Manfrotto Advanced Tri Backpack has to the max.

This backpack can be worn in three different ways – as a backpack, a sling bag, or in an X setup where you can still access the main pocket without removing it.

It has multiple pockets in different sizes for different accessories, side zips for main pocket access, and a small tripod strap on the front. 

It also comes with a rain cover for when you need it. There’s really not a scenario where the Manfrotto Advanced Tri backpack isn’t the perfect companion for a shoot.

Pros of the Manfrotto Advanced Tri Backpack

• Can fit up to two DSLRs
• Multiple carrying options 
• Includes rain cover

Cons of the Manfrotto Advanced Tri Backpack

• Straps are pretty thin

12. Burton F-stop Camera Backpack

Weight: 2.3 kg

Dimensions: 65 x 30.5 x 19 cm

Capacity: 28L

The Burton F-Stop camera backpack is another option to consider if you’re looking for a simple bag with practical features.

Designed for both professionals and beginners, it comes with padded and customisable internal dividers. The backpack has multiple external pockets including one on the side for convenient access. 

Just a heads up for laptop users though that it doesn’t come with a specialist laptop compartment – you could use the stretchy front pocket but you won’t get the same level of protection as you would from other bags with a laptop compartment.

It does however feature an external vertical carry system to be used with tripods and other similarly shaped gear.

Made by explorers for explorers, this bag is designed to be comfy after long hours of use with an adjustable shoulder harness and a waist harness to divide the weight uniformly across your upper body.

Pros of the Burton F-Stop

• Padded and customisable internal dividers and pockets
• Tripod compatible 
• Adjustable, cushioned shoulder straps 

Cons of the Burton F-Stop

• Not waterproof – you’d have to buy a cover separately
• No laptop sleeve

13. USA Gear DSLR Backpack

Weight: 1.08kg

Dimensions: 45.69 x 30.51 x 20.29 cm

Laptop Compartment: 15.6 inch

If you’re on the hunt for the best DSLR camera backpack without an eye watering pricetag, check out the USA Gear DSLR Backpack . This product matches other more expensive competitors with its quality and features. 

It has a spacious interior for your camera and customisable, padded dividers for any accessory. Or, you can also choose to remove them entirely.

You can also place your mobile phone and smaller accessories in its top compartment and up to a 15.6 inch laptop in its padded laptop pocket.

Plus, the USA Gear DSLR Backpack comes in various, colour accented designs to choose from. Check out which version suits you best via the link.

Pros of the USA Gear DSLR Backpack

• Strong, quality zippers
• Customisable interior
• Available with bright outline exterior colours and full-coloured interior

Cons of the USA Gear DSLR Backpack

• Straps are a bit too long 
• Dividers are very minimal; too thin 

14. Lowepro Trekker

Weight: 3.7 kg

Dimensions: 35 x 24 x 62 cm

Laptop Compartment: 15 inch laptop and 10 inch tablet

If you want the best camera backpack for hiking, take a look at the Lowepro Trekker . With all its thoughtfully designed features , this could be the best camera hiking backpack for any hiker.

It features ergonomic shoulder straps, an adjustable sternum strap, and a waist belt to fit any body size and type and distribute the weight of your gear.

It may look a bit bulky but it’s no problem if you need to make it more compact since it can be converted into two smaller bags to suit changing needs.

For organisation, it has internal padded pockets for a 10 inch tablet, mobile phone, and a 15 inch laptop. Externally, it has tripod straps as well as side pockets.

Check out this fab hiking camera backpack through the link to learn more.

Pros of the Lowepro Trekker

• Converts from one big bag into two small ones
• Tripod straps & two side zip pockets
• Laptop and tablet compartments

Cons of the Lowepro Trekker

15. tarion pro camera backpack.

Weight: 1.76 kg

Dimensions: 28.5 x 19 x 41 cm

Capacity: 16.5 L

TARION Pro’s 16.5 litre camera backpack can carry up to five extra lenses together with one camera, and a 15.6 inch laptop.

The main compartment has several pockets for accessories and its two separated compartments can be converted to one if you need to store bigger equipment like handheld stabilisers.

Conveniently, this bag has a side access zip for easy access without the need to remove your bag. It’s also designed with side pockets and side straps for a tripod.

Not only is this backpack sturdy, durable, and large in capacity but it also protects your equipment and accessories against moisture and dust. This high performance backpack is definitely worth considering.

Pros of the TARION Pro Camera Backpack

• Water repellent outer material and additional rain cover
• Shockproof & weather resistant material

Cons of the TARION Pro Camera Backpack

• Lockable zipper on rear but not on side

Camera Backpack FAQ

What is the best camera backpack.

There’s no one answer to this question. The best backpack for you will likely be completely different to someone else’s ideal product.

It depends on what size you need, the type of camera you have, the number of lenses you want to bring, where you’ll be taking it, and more.

To discover the best camera backpack for your personal needs, check out our section above on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Cameras.

How can I protect my camera in my backpack?

Aside from choosing a quality camera backpack that offers good protection with the perfect padding thickness, remember to always keep your camera lens cap on.

Ensuring that your bag is properly zipped is also paramount as even a small opening can allow sand, dirt, and moisture in. Additionally, make sure that your bag’s dividers securely fits the camera and accessories.

You may also want to consider camera cubes – they’re like mini camera backpacks with customisable pads but smaller in size and go inside your backpack for a more snug fit. 

What should you carry in a camera bag?

This actually depends on every person – a pro photographer may need to bring more compared to a newbie or someone who does photography as a hobby. If you belong to the latter, your camera body, memory cards, extra batteries, lenses, lens cleaner, a soft cloth, and a tripod or a mini tripod can be enough. 

While for professionals, they may bring additional accessories and equipment such as a reflector, a light meter, maybe even a vlogging microphone . Whether you’re a pro or not, it’s always advisable to keep a rain cover ready in your bag.

Why do you need a camera backpack?

Although some cameras already come in a case, camera backpacks usually provide better protection for your camera and its accessories, especially in transit. It’s also unlikely that you’ll be able to carry everything you need in a case alone.

Camera backpacks have plenty of space and several compartments to securely keep every piece of kit separated from each other. 

Which Camera Backpack Will You Go For?

With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to have to actually make a decision and purchase your bag. Fret not though – every product listed in this article has been chosen due to its great quality and functionality.

If we had to pick just one product, it’s the Lowepro Protactic 450 that wins the best all rounder backpack.

If you don’t mind spending a bit more, then definitely check out the Tropicfeel Shell for a quality, premium camera backpack.

For savvy photographers who love a bargain, you can’t go wrong with the CADeN Camera Backpack .

Do you have any other recommendations?

Drop a comment below, I'd love to hear your ideas!

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• Best GoPro gimbals

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Best Camera Backpacks for Travel under $100 | for Travel Vloggers

Last Updated on November 7, 2023 by Christine Kaaloa

This post may contain affiliate links. Never leave home without travel insurance. Click for the  best travel insurance for gear protection  and  best insurance for COVID . Want camera gear advice for your film trip? Book a vlogging gear advice session with me.

You’re a travel videographer , photographer or hobbyist, who is picky about your travel camera backpack. You want a bag with easy access to your camera gear, you don’t want to look like an expensive camera backpack, you want it to operate like a day pack and more! I got you.

Table of Contents: Best Camera Backpacks for Travel under $100 | for Travel Vloggers

• 1 Best camera backpacks for travel (under $100)
• 2  Watch my Travel Camera Bag Review:
• 3 Manfrotto Metropolitan Backpack Review
• 4.1 Watch What’s in my Camera Bag to see what I put inside my backpack?

Best camera backpacks for travel (under $100)

My history with searching for the perfect camera backpack for travel spans years. I’ve gone through everything from hiking day packs and stuffing my jacket at the bottom for padding to well, I did that a lot. Because as a solo female traveler who doesn’t want to attract attention as carrying expensive camera equipment, I had a laundry wish list of things I needed my ideal travel camera bag to be.

I had gone through a lot of off-brand and branded camera bags, so I was surprised when the two bags I finally found were Manfrotto camera backpacks.  i’m sharing my top camera bag picks for travel.

My travel camera bag requirements:

As a female solo travel content creator , I take into account—

• Safety: It doesn’t look like an expensive camera bag.
• Hidden pockets to stash things in like money or a passport. (Read Ways to Avoid Pickpockets )
• Easy to access camera compartment.
• Lightweight: A travel camera bag with bad ergonomics can surmount to a lot of stress in my neck and back.
• Travel day pack functionality.
• Accommodates a tripod or selfie stick, water bottle and a 13″ Laptop
• Not bulky bulky and padding does not take up essential space.

Download my Free Camera Equipment Buying eBook

 watch my travel camera bag review:, comparing the manfrotto nx csc vs manfrotto metropolitan.

Manfrotto Metropolitan Backpack Review

The Manfrotto Metropolitan backpack has many features which make it a near perfect camera backpack for travel for under $100.  The top loading compartment is has ample room to pack daypack accessories like a light jacket, scarf, travel chargers and external batteries, etc.. The dedicated camera compartment has sturdy and tightly padded organizational slots which you can mold to your gear and use. It is a front loading compartment which means you can access your gear while wearing your pack on you.  The camera soft box can be removed and internal compartments can be unzipped to produce one main day pack. There is a front facing pocket to put maps or a small travel notebook.

Cons: The front loading compartment is accessible to public and is not necessarily safe from pickpockets entering your bag without your being aware. Also albeit waterproof, the fabric is a little thin, which makes it feel a little cheap. I got this bag at Costco, so I know the Manfrotto camera backpack quality is solid but perhaps it is made for consumer sales. It’s still a great runner up travel camera backpack for those who want their daypack to merge with a camera bag. to match my wish list for a functional and travel friendly camera bag.

Manfrotto Metropolitan backpack Specs:

• It holds a DSLR and up to 3 Lenses
• Fits DJI Mavic Pro/Mavic Air
• Dedicated 15″ Laptop Pocket
• Top Handle, Shoulder and Sternum Straps
• Padded Back Panel
• Water-Resistant Fabric
• Front loading compartment
• Zipper side pockets to hold waterbottle with a dedicated selfie or tripod side strap.
• 11.02 x 5.91 x 18.11″

Manfrotto NX CSC Backpack Review

The Manfrotto Lifestyle NX CSC Backpack is my top pick in travel camera backpacks for travel under $100. It is ideal for photojournalists and is one of the best camera backpacks for travel vlogging

The Manfrotto NX CSC Backpack is compact to be manageable as a woman, but large enough to fit my main camera gear/accessories and daypack extras. This fabric of the bag feels thick, sturdy and more like a prosumer/professional bag for compact gear setups. This is a little smaller than the Manfrotto Metropolitan, with a little less space for daypack accessories.

The dedicated camera compartment -again- has a sturdy and tightly padded Manfrotto design for organizational slots and you can mold it to your use. The main camera gear compartment is back loading, which keeps your valuable cameras and lenses protected from public access. However, it also means you have to rest your bag to unzip and remove your gear. I thought long and hard about this, because I like accessing my gear when I’m on the move. I don’t like removing and resting my bag anywhere. So as a workaround, I’ll treat the top compartment as my “ hot compartment “, where I keep warm , my main lenses and cameras I know I’ll use. There is a long front facing pocket to put maps or a small travel notebooks.

Cons: This travel camera backpack is designed for tablet users so there is a dedicated tablet pocket which looks like a secret pocket tucked behidn your back and above your gear compartment. There is no dedicated laptop section and this is perhaps my only large gripe about it. Instead, I put my 13″ laptop in the front pocket (see video for a better explanation), which makes me worried about how I place it.

Disappointingly, it does not have a sternum strap to alleviate your back and neck of weight, but it hugs close to your body’s center of gravity. It keeps the heaviest items in your pack against your back, which is important because your pack feel lighter. This reduces stress on your back and shoulders.

The Manfrotto NX CSC Backpack specs:

• Backpack for DSLR (or DJI Mavic) + two additional lenses, external batteries and chargers and shotgun microphone.
• Best camera bag for solo travelers and best camera backpacks for travel vlogging
• Rear access of your main gear. This makes it hard for pickpockets to access that compartment.
• Selfie pole and tripod connection provided with mesh side pockets
• Top compartment for personal belongings
• A secret side pocket for tablets.
• Removable camera insert
• Buy it here .

What would you recommend as Best Camera Backpacks for Travel under $100 ?

Watch what’s in my camera bag to see what i put inside my backpack.

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A Guide to Camera Gear for Traveling

W hether going on a vacation for a few weeks or traveling long-term, packing a travel kit for camera gear can be challenging for photographers.

On the one hand, you want to have as much relevant camera gear as possible to account for whatever landscapes you encounter; on the other hand, packing light and minimal and sticking to the essentials is also necessary.

If you have a trip coming up soon and packing photography gear is giving you trouble, keep reading this article to learn about the essential camera gear you might need when traveling.

Camera Gear Tips

Deciding which lens to take with you can be tricky, as you can come across various scenarios while traveling, and different lenses have different advantages. We recommend going for zoom lenses over prime ones for travel photography. 

Zoom lenses give you a more flexible focal range without having to double up or take multiple lenses with you for different shot types.

However, if you want to cover all the different types of lenses you might need while keeping it light, consider purchasing the following three lenses:

• A walk-around lens is a versatile option for portraits or shots of food, landscapes, and buildings
• An ultra-wide or wide-angle lens for architecture, astrophotography, or landscapes
• A telephoto lens for wildlife

If you're still confused, try getting advice from fellow photographers or signing up for photo workshops , as they can help you better understand this subject.

2. Small Speedlight

You'll need a light source to shoot portraits or do food photography. Consider packaging a flashgun/speedlight or an LED panel.

Choosing a flashgun with rechargeable batteries is helpful, as you'll get more flashes out of one charge without buying many AA batteries.

Speedlights can help lower unnecessarily high contrast in pictures without editing the images and tweaking the shadows, reducing their quality in the process.

3. Suitable Power Bank and Spare Batteries

Owning a high-capacity power bank is essential when traveling. Most mirrorless cameras have an in-camera charging feature, which means you can use a power bank to charge it. You'll also be able to charge any other gadgets like a laptop or phone.

Additionally, keeping spare batteries is also essential. Ensure that you charge them before you go so that you don't have to worry about them later, and also pack rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for your Speedlight.

4. Reflector

Another item you need to keep in your backpack is a reflector with reversible colors. Reflectors can help mimic two light sources without investing in them separately. They usually come in four colors: gold, silver, gold/silver, white, and black, each with its use.

The silver surface is good for giving a cooler light, whereas the gold one gives a warmer glow. Similarly, the white surface is suitable for diffusing incoming light, whereas black helps absorb excess light.

5. Memory Cards

Always pack more memory cards than you think you will need. You never know how many pictures you will shoot, and if you cannot transfer photos from a full memory card to make space for more, you will have to miss shots.

Memory cards can also get damaged, corrupt, or lost, so having extra on hand can always be helpful.

There are various options to choose from, and the file output size of your camera, along with its continuous burst mode's speed, will determine which one you need.

Though tripods are not always necessary for travel photography, they can help step up your landscape photography game.

If you ever want to shoot dreamy seascapes or do some astro and wildlife photography, having a tripod on hand for stabilizing the camera will be essential.

You don't need something expensive or fancy; sometimes, a tabletop tripod can work. It's also small, lightweight, and easy to carry.

7. Travel Backpack

Having a comfortable travel backpack is essential for having a good time. If you don't have one, you won't have an enjoyable time, no matter how light you pack or how much it weighs.

When buying a travel backpack, try to go to a shop rather than getting it online. Try it on, see how it adjusts, how comfortable or padded the straps are, if it has an airflow system to keep your back cool, and whether it has external pockets for a water bottle or tripod.

There are many options, so try to look at as many as possible and choose the best one for yourself.

Wrapping Up

Packing for trips is always confusing. You don't want to leave anything behind as everything seems essential; however, on the other hand, you also know that it's important to pack light and keep things minimal.

When packing camera gear, keeping essentials like rechargeable batteries, spare memory cards, reflectors, and speed lights, and having a travel tripod with you is important.

Try to limit yourself to one camera body and a couple of versatile lenses to save space and weight. Following these tips, you can ensure your photography gear stays safe and ready for action during your travels.

This story is brought to you in partnership with Action Photo Tours.

The post A Guide to Camera Gear for Traveling appeared first on Go Backpacking .

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Any Adventure

Whether used solo or packed alongside other bags, the best travel backpacks we’ve tested hold plenty of stuff and make it all easy to access.

By Will Sabel Courtney and Ben Bowers

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

An excellent carry-on-sized travel and adventure backpack can be a packing game changer. Whether used solo for shorter trips or carried along with other luggage for extended journeys, the best options offer plenty of storage space for clothes and a slew of easy access and protective pockets for water bottles, laptops, and other personal items.

Having spent many days on airplanes crisscrossing continents and oceans for work and play alike, here are the best carry-on travel and adventure bags we’ve tested and recommend hovering in the 35–55 liter size range.

Carry-On Travel & Adventure Backpacks We Recommend

Best Overall

Best Rollaboard Replacement

Best Bargain

Best Multi-Use

Smartest Feature Set

Most Distinctive Option

• Made in America

Most Versatile

Best for Awkward-Sized Gear

How We Test Travel & Adventure Backpacks

Our tester journeyed far and wide on numerous trips by plane, train and automobile with these backpacks, loading them up with apparel, gadgets and gear to see how they handle the stress. They were loaded and unloaded into luggage racks, trunks and back seats alike, carried on long walks to and from terminals and destinations, and left to bash about in the closet between trips.

For many of the tests, he loaded it up with a typical array of clothing and equipment one would need for a business or personal trip of several days time: an extra pair of jeans or slacks, 2–3 T-shirts, 1–2 overshirts or button-downs, a pair of sneakers, gym shorts and shirts, a DSLR camera , iPhone charger and Apple Watch charger and of course, several changes of undergarments.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here .

Best Overall Travel Backpack

Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack

• Can expand from a 35L day bag into 45L multi-day gear hauler
• Offers many ways to load & access contents
• Backpack straps can hide conveniently out of site via magnets
• Weather proof shell
• Main pouch less accessible than some other bags on the list
• Cinch straps only work okay
• $299 at Peak Design
• $299 at Huckberry
• $299 at REI
• $299 at Backcountry
• $299 at Amazon

Peak Design’s travel backpack has been a top pick of ours for a while now , and suffice it to say, it’s still impressive. You can tell it’s a premium product from the first moment you lay hands and eyes on it; it looks and feels nice, from the action of the zippers to the smooth, almost waxy waterproof exterior to the soft, gentle gray fabric of the interior. But look closer, and you’ll find more features you might have missed the first time; hidden magnets seamlessly tuck away the backpack straps when not in use. (Just be sure you check the straps’ length every time you pull them back out, as they can slide out longer a little more easily than some bags.)

Of course, none of that would matter if it weren’t capable of carrying a bunch of gear. Luckily, this bag excels at that. Two main pockets easily enable the carriage of several days’ worth of apparel, while smaller slots for everything from toiletries to cables to headphones to laptops are found inside. There are grab handles for one-handed toting, multiple zippers for easy entry from several angles, and slots for water bottles on the sides, of course. We also love that unlike most other options on this list, this bag can contract down to a smaller-sized bag 35 L capacity for shorter trips or bulk up to a 45 L if you need to bring more along (or wound up acquiring a few items while out on the road.) All in all, it’s probably as close to the perfect travel backpack as you might find on sale today.

Best Rollaboard Replacement Travel Backpack

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

• Designed to maximize allowable carry-on space
• Opens and packs like a carry-on suitcase
• Featured padded hip belt with side pocket for better weight distribution
• Accessing items in main compartment can be awkward on the go
• Lacks luggage pass-through sleeve
• Slightly heavier than other options
• $350 at Tortuga

Tortuga’s Travel Backpack Pro is regarded as one of the best travel backpacks for good reason. Its rectangular shape lets the bag maximize its available storage capacity while ensuring its dimensions fall within standard airline carry-on guidelines. The primary storage compartment also opens as a suitcase to reveal a large mesh zipper compartment side and a spacious main compartment. Depending on your use case, this design detail can be a pro or con. On the one hand, it’s great to lay the bag flat on a bed and unzip the clam shell zipper to reveal and grab whatever’s inside quickly. However, quickly grabbing something buried deep inside the main compartment can be difficult if you don’t have enough space to lay the bag fully flat. The bag’s space-maximizing design also means its physically and aesthetically a bit more boxy than other options we recommend. Tortuga sells a smaller 30L capacity version of the same bag if 40L feels too big for your needs.

Best Bargain Travel Backpack

Aer Travel Pack 3

• Features handles on all sides
• Tons of pockets, including a hidden one for Airtags / Tracker
• Includes luggage handle pass-through strap
• $249 at Aer

Aer’s Travel Pack 3 is a little more affordable than the Peak Design entry, but don’t hold that against it; this bag is a lot like the above model. There are an abundance of pockets; you won’t have any trouble finding a place for everything and putting everything in its place. And while it doesn’t look or feel quite as premium when standing next to the Peak Design bag, it still has the quality and appearance of a high-end product.

On the downside, the orientation of the main pouch can make opening it and filling the bag a bit trickier than some other entries on the list, and the magnetic clips for the chest strap and cinch straps feel like an unnecessary complication. It’s also a little smaller than other recommendations on this list. Still, overall, it’s a great choice for a few days on the road.

Best Multi-Use Travel Backpack

Yeti Crossroads Backpack 35L

• Made from thick, abrasion resistant nylon
• Stable luggage pass through sleeve
• Removable external straps for lashing on other gear
• Sold in multiple smaller sizes
• Laptop sleeve is a little smaller compared to other bags
• Less water resistance than other options
• Lack of DWR coating also means its more prone to staining
• $250 at Yeti

Yeti’s approach to backpacks is the same as its coolers . The brand’s Crossroads Backpack is a durably constructed and capable bag with a slightly less techy aesthetic than other recommendations on this list. It also includes a unique feature mix that makes it great for airports, city travel, and outdoor adventures.

For work-related trips or voyages within city limits, it’s got padded organization pockets for various items, including a laptop, and opens clamshell-style for easier packing. In cases of outdoor adventuring, it also features a pair of removal external straps for toting along other items like a rain shell, ground cover, or a lightweight camp chair. There’s also a pocket big enough to fit a 26 oz water bottle, although it’s located inside the bag, which might be a controversial decision for some. We lack the fact that Yeti sells smaller 22 L and 27 L versions of the bag for those interesting in something that’s closer in size to a more traditional backpack.

The Travel Backpack with the Smartest Feature Set

Matador GlobeRider 45L Travel Backpack

• Features a highly adjustable outdoor backpack style harness for optimizing carrying comfort and weight distribution
• Stowable main backpack straps can tuck away for checking
• Dedicated internal compartment that's great for keeping dirty / worn shoes from the rest of the bag's contents
• Looks more technical / camping oriented than other options
• Bigger compared to other tweener-sized options
• $350 at Matador
• $350 at Huckberry
• $350 at REI
• $350 at Backcountry

Smart design details distinguish all of Matador’s products, and their premium  GlobeRider 45 travel and adventure backpack  puts this part of the brand’s DNA on full display. While the sheer variety of features makes this bag stand out, its outdoor-grade harness, complete with adjustable load lifters, a contoured aluminum framestay, and a backpacking carry harness, make it one of the best travel backpack options for anyone who expects to walk long distances carrying it. The harness is also stowable behind the padded back panel, which can help prevent the bag from being caught up in machinery if you decide to check it. 

We also love the larger, built-in internal organization pocket that’s sizeable enough to keep a pair of dirty hiking boots separated from other packed items and the internal shockcord securement system on the other side for keeping contents in place when the bag is open. There’s even a “smugglers pocket” tucked away behind the back panel for keeping critical items like a Passport out of harm’s way.

Most Distinctive Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

• Available in more colorful outdoorsy-styled versions, including a randomized Del Dia option
• Includes removable raincover
• Includes strap for carrying crossbody
• Designed to work perfectly with Cotopaxi packing cubes and accessories
• Includes a lifetime warranty + repairs
• Less open space for cramming gear inside
• $220 at Cotopaxi
• $220 at Amazon
• $220 at REI

We gravitate to more unremarkable colors in bags. Still, if you prefer your equipment to stand out or like owning something unique,  Cotopaxi’s Allpa 42 L is an excellent option . It’s available in various standard colors, most of which mix and match various bright shades to give off a classic outdoorsy vibe. But there’s also the option of buying a one-of-a-kind  “Del Dia” version  made from leftover parts and pieces from other companies’ production runs. While you can pick the primary color you are interested in, the different colored elements of the bag are determined on the production line based on available materials. The result is an aesthetically unique bag that’s also more sustainably produced. 

But don’t assume the appeal of this bag is all aesthetic. It also offers plenty of practical travel-centric details, including various internal zippered organization pockets, a removal rainfly for foul weather protection, and a removable waist belt. Its primary harness straps can also be tucked away for easier checking. 

If you want to enter the Cotopaxi travel ecosystem fully, the bag is also specifically designed to fit the company’s packing cubes and fanny pack.

Best Made in the USA Travel Backpack

GoRuck GR3 45L USA

• Ridiculously sturdy and tough
• Simple design
• Harder to access laptop and other pockets on the go
• Expensive compared to bags with bells & whistles
• $455 at goruck.com

GoRuck is known for building bags that are sturdy as hell, and meant to go through it, too. The canvas skin feels thick enough to resist tiger claws. That’s not to say it’s harsh on the wearer; 201D Cordura straps and back panels feel plenty soft even over the long haul. We tested the smaller GR1, but even that 26-liter bag punched above its weight, proving large enough to carry our usual kit without much trouble; the 45-liter GR3 will no doubt prove capable of taking whatever you throw at it, inside or out.

With only one main compartment and a couple rather small pockets, it’s a bit harder to stash smaller items in their own areas — you may have to rummage through your underwear to grab your laptop — but if your priority is making sure everything in your bag stays safe and sound no matter what, GoRuck has you covered. Be aware that this bag is often sold out.

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Pack

• A built-in secondary pack is great for day trips
• Massive capacity
• More affordable than other options
• Re-assembly of constituent bags can be tricky when full
• Forces you to split your gear up between two bags when packing
• $220.00 at osprey.com
• $176 at Backcountry Gear $220 (20% off)
• $215 at Amazon
• $220 at L.L. Bean

Nerd alert: What does the Osprey Farpoint 55 have in common with the USS Enterprise-D from Star Trek: The Next Generation? (Which, coincidentally, first aired with a pilot called “Encounter at Farpoint.”) Well, both starship and backpack can separate into two separate vessels if the need arises. In the case of the Osprey, that means the smaller, secondary pocket detaches to become its own daypack, perfectly sized for short hikes and office visits. Combined, the complete bag is a mammoth beast, capable of taking on a stunning amount of gear; if you tend to pick up souvenirs on your trips, this bag is for you.

On the less-appealing side, it’s a bit difficult to get into the main bag when “assembled,” and that assembly process can be tricky when both bags are stuffed. Combined, the overall package is bulky; it’s not an issue when wearing it (or at least it wasn’t for our six-foot-four-inch tester), but it does generally necessitate splitting the bag into its constituent parts on the airplane, stowing the big part in the overhead and the small one under the seat ahead.

Best Travel Backpack for Awkward-Sized Gear

Patagonia Cragsmith Pack 45L

• Giant pocket and wide opening make for easy packing
• Light compared to other bags
• Not as optimal for business travel as some other bags
• No true dedicated sleeve for laptops or tablets
• $152.99 at Patagonia $219.00 (30% off)

Of course, any list of high-quality backpacks wouldn’t be complete without a Patagonia entry. The Cragsmith may be made for rock climbing, but it’s also a good fit for travel, with ample capacity in a giant central compartment as well as secondary slots for other gear. That said, the lack of a second main compartment may be a turn-off for some, and the relaxed sleeve on the inside of the main cargo bay is better suited for rope than a laptop. But if you want a sleek travel backpack from one of the best names in outdoor equipment, the Cragsmith should treat you right.

Key details to consider before deciding on the right travel or adventure backpack for your needs.

• Do you plan on using your travel or adventure backpack frequently in conjunction with a rollaboard? If yes, we recommend keying in on options that feature a luggage pass-through sleeve. This will allow you to take the bag off your back and more easily roll it with your suitcase during extended treks in the airport.
• Do you plan on using your travel backpack off the beaten path or expect to be exposed to the elements for longer stretches? If yes, look for options made with DWR coatings or sold with an included rainfly as well as sealed zippers for added water protection.
• Do you plan on walking/hiking long distances while wearing the travel backpack? If yes, we recommend focusing on backpacks that offer integrated waist straps or, even better, more adjustable/tunable harnesses. Both features will allow you to distribute the weight of the bag better and for more comfort. 
• Do you plan on ever checking your travel backpack on an airplane? While less critical than the other considerations, bags with stowable straps and harnesses are better suited for checking. It’s an unlikely risk, but extraneous straps can get caught in conveyor belt machinery while being scanned.
• Do you prefer packing with packing cubes and smaller bags? If so, then we recommend looking at backpacks with less built-in organization pockets to maximize what you can carry. If you’re in the opposite camp, then many of the options that include a variety of pockets and zippered compartments can help you quickly find whatever you’ve packed.

An easy rubric for gauging the right sized carry-on adventure backpack for your needs.

If you are hoping to use a single backpack for a trip lasting more than three days, we recommend focusing on bags with a capacity of 40 L unless you are an extremely light packer.

A handy list of approved carry-on sizes for major U.S. domestic airlines

Approved Carry-on sizing reference table last updated 4/9/2024

To learn more about how big (or heavy) your carry-on can be, refer to our broader guide to the best carry-on suitcases for every trip .

Related Topics

15 Travel Backpacks to Help Streamline Your Next Trip

Now boarding: your most organized self.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

But don’t just take it from me. “Being hands-free while traveling is essential, which is why a backpack is the perfect type of bag to use for all trips,” says Matilda Sandstroem, co-founder and designer at Adventurist Bags . “It will also distribute weight better than a one-shoulder bag, which will be crucial for longer travel days.” Plus, Sandstroem points out that a stylish backpack can double as your day bag once you arrive at your destination and is perfect for housing a light layer, camera, or snacks. (Good luck trying to bring that duffle bag to the Trevi fountain...)

Matching Luggage

Away the everywhere zip backpack.

Bottega Veneta Medium Intrecciato Backpack

Luxury Brand

Rimowa flap backpack large.

Monos Metro Backpack

Fjallraven Kånken Classic Backpack

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Amazon’s Choice

Lubardy travel carry on backpack, 40l.

The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack

Best for International Travel

Tortuga outbreaker backpack 40l.

Best Expandable Backpack

Beis the expandable backpack.

To give you even more insight, I combined my own research with Sandstroem’s and that of the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute to bring you the definitive guide to the best travel backpacks. Whether you’re packing a weekender bag or looking for the best bags on Amazon , here are 15 backpacks that make stellar travel companions.

Away Travel is known and loved for its suitcases—I, for one, swear by the bigger carry-on —so you can bet the brand makes a damn good carry-on backpack, too.

Colors: Garnet, Navy, Black, Coast

Dimensions: Width: 12 inches; height: 17.7 inches; depth: 5.9 inches

Customer review: “I needed a backpack that I could use for business travel that would allow me to really pack it in for international work. This bag has a ton of space and several pockets to keep items organized. I recently returned to the office and find that its great as a daily bag for all of my needs. I even get lunch into the main compartment.”

If traveling in style is a priority for you, more power to you. This leather backpack from Bottega Veneta is the best way to take to show your fellow travelers that you have taste.

Colors: Surf, Space, Mud, Black, Ardoise

Dimensions: Width: 11.8 inches; height: 18.1 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Rimowa is like the Rolls Royce of luggage brands. And in case no one has told you lately, you deserve the best of the best.

Colors: Black, Slate Gray

Dimensions: Width: 14.5 inches; height: 17.3 inches; depth: 6.3

See that pouch on the front? It provides the perfect amount of extra storage for easy access to necessities and detaches in a snap—literally.

Colors: 10 options

Dimensions: Width: 11.5 inches; height: 16.5 inches; depth: 6 inches

Customer review: “It looks sharp, I’ve already gotten compliments. It is super spacious inside which is perfect for both travel and in a professional setting since it fits everything from spare shoes to my lunch. The compartments actually make sense for organizing.”

Fjallraven: the bag that everyone has, but no one knows how to pronounce. While these bags don’t offer much in the way of organization or storage, they are extremely durable and available in a ton of colors and sizes.

Colors: 27 options

Dimensions : Width: 10.75 inches x height: 14.5 inches x depth: 4 inches

Customer review: “This Fjallraven has been to and all around Japan with me, and recently I started back to University…It’s not too bulky but surprisingly holds a lot.”

Calpak’s Luka bag is an organizer’s dream because it’s chock-full of pockets. This versatile pack is great for everyday use or as a day bag while traveling.

Colors: 13 options

Dimensions: Width: 12 inches x height: 16 inches x depth: 7 inches

Customer review: “This backpack has been great so far! I use it for daily commutes, and it fits my 16” laptop in that compartment with ease. It is also great for being outdoors, got stuck in the rain and my laptop remained dry.”

A waterproof, high-capacity pack + a clamshell opening – an expensive price tag = the ultimate travel backpack.

Colors: Black, Blue, Grey, or Pink

Dimensions: Width: 13.38 inches x height: 20.74 inches x depth: 7.87 inches

Customer review: “Backpacked for 10 days in Greece with this! My friends bought $100+ backpacks, and mine worked just as well for a fraction of the price. I was able to fit a large packing cube with PLENTY of clothes, two pairs of shoes (sandals), a curling iron, a sweater, and my toiletries in this bag!”

The genius product testers over at the Good Housekeeping Institute rated this the overall best travel backpack . As someone who has regularly used this as a carry-on for nearly six years, I’d have to agree. It stands up to the test of time and is great for short trips or as a day bag.

Colors: Lime, Taupe, or Orange

Dimensions: Width: 12 inches x height: 19.5 inches x depth: 6.5 inches

Customer review: “Awesome backpack. Large, spacious, and full of compartments. Suitable for any type of trip, I love it.”

Calling all fellow backpackers and hostel hoppers! If you’re trekking through Europe, or anywhere else for that matter, it’s best to keep your luggage light. This durable, waterproof Tortuga pack is the largest allowed carry-on for international flights, making it perfect for your next adventure.

Colors: Black

Dimensions: Width: 13. 8 inches x height: 21.7 inches x depth: 7.9 inches

Customer review: “Just returned from a two-week tour of Norway and Iceland, five different hotels, four flights. Outbreaker…made it so easy to effortlessly stay on the move…This was our first carry-on-only trip of this length, and I loved the ease of check-in and airport departure it gave us. With the hip belts to carry most of the weight, we did not suffer any back or shoulder strain.”

If there’s one thing for certain, I don’t need another backpack. But after reading the reviews for this Beis bag...I just might have to get one for myself. It has specialized features like an expanding section and a water bottle holder that can be used in or outside the bag.

Colors: Black or Beige

Dimensions: Width: 13 inches; height: 15 inches; depth: 5-7 inches

Customer review: “Love how much room this backpack has! I took it on a trip to Italy and it was light/compact enough to put in luggage but can fit so many things. The design of this backpack is a 10/10 for me.”

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Dagne Dover bags are super popular right now, and with good reason. Fashionable and versatile, they’re perfect for everyday use or as your designated school bag. Plus, Dagne Dover products are made with Repreve technology, meaning they’re sustainable.

Dimensions: Width: 13.25 inches x height: 17.5 inches x depth: 5.25 inches (for large size)

Customer review: “I love this bag and its many pockets and pouches. I can easily organize everything with its numerous zippers, and it stores my laptop perfectly in the back. It’s super light, which is great for a backpack, but thick and good quality with its neoprene.”

Adventurist Backpacks Adventurist Classic

Not only does Sandstroem design these bags with style in mind, but for every backpack purchased, 25 meals are provided for American families in need.

Colors: 7 options

Dimensions: Width: 13.5 inches; height: 15.5 inches; depth: 6 inches

Customer review: “I’ve had this backpack for almost a year now and I have only good things to say! I got the sand color and even through hiking and using it a lot it still looks great! It’s water resistant so I don’t have to worry about bringing my camera, and it’s also super cute and makes my hiking outfits look great! Can’t recommend it enough, if you’re thinking about getting one, do it!”

L.L. Bean Stowaway Pack

The Good Housekeeping Institute voted this pack as the best lightweight bag . If you’re camping, hiking, or just trying to lighten your load, it’s a fantastic option that’s both durable and spacious.

Colors: Gold, Teal, Loden, Navy, or Black

Dimensions: Width: 10 inches x height: 19 inches x depth: 7 inches

Customer review: “Great bag. Love all the pockets, and it’s lightweight. Like how it can roll into a pouch.”

Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack

At first glance, you might underestimate how much this backpack can hold. But don’t be deceived; it secretly holds a ton of stuff. That’s just one of the many reasons the Good Housekeeping Institute rated this Osprey as the best travel daypack .

Dimensions: Width: 11 inches x height: 18.9 inches x depth: 9.45 inches

Customer review: “As a backpack hoarder, I’m always on the search for the perfect functional backpack. I bought the Osprey Daylite Plus to use on vacations where I’d also need to lug my work laptop along. I wanted something that is light enough to use on hikes and will work as a personal item when flying.”

Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack

Business trips shouldn’t be a chore...well, not more so than the actual business part. But packing for business trips definitely shouldn’t be a pain. Allow Timbuk2 to take the hassle out of packing.

Dimensions: Width: 13.4 inches x height: 20.5 inches x depth: 5.5 inches

Customer review: “After using this pack for a couple weeks commuting, I can confidently say that it’s more functional, well designed, and comfortable than any other pack I’ve owned. The materials and build are incredibly high quality, and it sits perfectly on my back without adding strain, even when fully loaded with a laptop.”

.css-1wfsl5s{font-family:SaolDisplay,SaolDisplay-fallback,SaolDisplay-roboto,SaolDisplay-local,Georgia,Times,serif;font-weight:normal;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;text-align:center;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:2.375rem;line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:2.375rem;line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:3rem;line-height:1.2;letter-spacing:-0.0225rem;}}@media(min-width: 73.75rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:3rem;line-height:1.2;}}.css-1wfsl5s b,.css-1wfsl5s strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1wfsl5s em,.css-1wfsl5s i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;} What to consider when buying a travel backpack

• Size: Don’t just eyeball it based on what size you think you want; the precise measurements matter. Each airline has its own size restrictions for carry-on bags, and these are particularly varied between domestic and international flights. “ Since you may be flying on a lot of different airlines in the future, it may be best to choose the smallest common denominator that way your backpack is sure to fit no matter which airline you travel with,” Sandstroem says.
• Security and durability: “ With most of us carrying around expensive electronics such as laptops, tablets, and camera gear, it’s important to find a backpack that will adequately protect your belongings,” Sandstroem says. “ Whether you’ll be throwing your bag on the ground, storing it under the seat of the plane, or tossing it in the overhead compartment, make sure to look for something that has both front and back padding.” You’ll also want to look for a bag that offers a padded laptop compartment that will fit your device. Some precautious customers might also opt for a bag that includes locks or some other anti-theft mechanisms.
• Weight and material: The more lightweight, the better. “ It may seem like a couple of pounds won’t make much of a difference, but after hours of traveling, you’ll be happy to be rid of any extra weight,” Sandstroem says, noting that materials like polyester or nylon are both lightweight and durable.
• Organization and features: You might find that a bag with an abundance of pockets or separated sections provides more ease of mind. It’s certainly simpler to keep organized. Or, if you’re someone who keeps their belongings grouped in different pouches, you can probably do with a more open-concept bag. Bear in mind any additional features that might make a difference for you, like a key leash, water bottle pocket, shoe bag, or chest straps.

Meet the Experts

Matilda Sandstroem is the co-founder and primary designer for Adventurist Bags. The emerging brand is based in Denver and focuses on minimalist travel bags. For every bag purchased, Adventurist Bags donates 25 meals to Americans in need via non-profit Feeding America.

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I Road Tripped Through Southern Ireland for 7 Days, and These Are the 13 Items I Couldn’t Have Done It Without

They're all from Amazon.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

As an Italian travel writer with Irish citizenship, I recently planned a week-long road trip through southern Ireland to explore my maternal grandfather’s country and connect with my heritage. The road trip included driving through six counties, with nights spent in small fishing villages on the coast, cliffside hikes accompanied by wandering sheep, and mountain-and-lake-framed sheepdog demonstrations. With the weather in constant flux (Ireland could give Boston a run for its money when it comes to capricious weather), plenty of outdoor activities planned, and long hours spent in the car, the trip required the right gear, which I quickly realized can make all of the difference — especially when driving on the opposite side of the road. 

I’ve created a foolproof packing list of my favorite travel essentials from Amazon that made my week-long road trip through southern Ireland a breeze. From rain boots and compression packing cubes to portable tire inflators and water-resistant hiking pants , these 13 products made my trip go off without a hitch, so much so that I’m already planning a second Irish road trip. 

Chelsea Rain Boots

Rain boots generally aren’t known to be the most stylish footwear, but these ultra-affordable Chelsea-style ones from Asgard manage to strike the right balance between functional and fashionable. These were my primary footwear while in Ireland, as they were durable enough to deal with the rain, wind, and mud (which easily came off with a wet wipe), but also nice enough to be worn around towns and cities. However, the best part is how comfortable they are — after walking 10,000 to 20,000 steps a day (every day) for a week, my feet were miraculously blister-free. It’s no wonder that these boots have more than 17,000 five-star rating at Amazon.

Lightweight Puffer Jacket  

My road trip took place in March, which is when Ireland is known to be rainy with mild temperatures — hence why I decided to pack a lightweight, water-resistant puffer. I wanted some degree of insulation, but not to the point of overheating and feeling bogged down. I wore my favorite lightweight puffer jacket from Zara that comes with two large exterior pockets, which are perfect for holding smaller items such as lip balm and my phone. If you're in need of an equally lightweight and high-performing puffer, this best-selling Amazon Essentials one has over 15,000 five-star ratings and should do just the trick. Available in multiple colors with sizes ranging from XS to 6XL, it can pack neatly into a small, handy travel case for easy packing. 

Asia Palomba

Compression Packing Cubes

I’ve never been a believer in compression packing cubes until I came across this Gonex set with more than 5,900 five-star ratings at Amazon. Since I only brought a carry-on suitcase and a personal item for my trip, I needed to make sure that I could pack a week’s worth of bulky clothing between the two — and these compression packing cubes did just the trick. In them, I was able to pack two pairs of pants, one pair of leggings, four long-sleeve shirts, a pair of thermal long johns, two T-shirts, a pair of sleeping shorts, and four sweaters. 

Available in a bundle of four different sizes, ranging from S to XL, they not only easily compressed my thick clothing items, but also left me with plenty of room to pack a pair of hiking boots, a rain poncho, and my toiletry items. Now that I’ve officially been converted into team compression packing cubes , I won't be traveling anywhere without them.

Portable Tire Inflator 

My week-long road trip naturally hinged on having a functioning rental car. As I knew the majority of the roads that I would be driving on would be narrow and at times unpaved, I wanted to make sure that I had a compact, portable tire inflator that could quickly and easily inflate my rental car’s tires. It especially came in handy when driving up the Priest’s Leap, a steep, narrow, and winding mountain pass freckled with cows and sheep. Half-way up the rural pass, all four of my rental car’s tire pressure got low, but this small, mighty device thankfully inflated them within 20 minutes. The tire inflator is compact enough to fit into a personal item, and comes with different valves that can inflate anything from balls to air mattresses, so it’s an especially versatile gadget to have on hand for any road trip.

Ankle-height Hiking Boots

Much of my trip included cliffside hikes and traipsing along mud-soaked fields, which as one can assume, was a fairly messy affair. These Keen hiking boots, which I’ve had for two years, protected me against the rain and mud, even when they were submerged in an ankle-deep puddle (only the tops of my socks, which weren't protected by the boots, were stained). They can be worn in any season thanks to their breathable, waterproof exteriors and light mesh linings. The grip from their high-traction rubber soles, which is great for hiking in damper conditions, has always kept me firmly on the ground, even in the slipperiest of situations. Plus, they come with removable, dual-density EVA footbeds with arch support, so they’re incredibly comfortable and supportive.

Waterproof Hiking Pants

I’ve come to learn that a good pair of waterproof hiking pants can make or break any hiking experience. I’m particularly fond of hiking pants with plenty of pockets, which is why my favorite pair, that I’ve worn everywhere from New Hampshire to Iceland, have four of them. In Ireland, I wore them while hiking alongside cliffs and across fields to not only protect me against the elements, but also dirt, mud, and cow and sheep feces (sheeps are quite literally everywhere in Ireland).

While my favorite pair are no longer sold at Amazon, I’ve been eyeing these affordable lightweight ones from Baleaf for quite some time. The Amazon top-sellers come with four zippered pockets, quick-dry fabric, and adjustable cord locks around the ankle cuffs. Available in a variety of colors, their most attractive feature may just be their tall and petite versions — the latter of which is ideal for me as I always struggle to find pants that fit right.

I first purchased these wool socks last year for a trip to Iceland, and they’ve been keeping my feet warm ever since. Comfortable, well-insulated, and not overly thick, they come in handy when I'm home in Boston; I wear them on a daily basis during the winter to protect against the city’s notoriously frigid wind chills. They’re designed with reinforced yarn in the heels and toes for extra durability and warmth, plus arch compression reinforcement to support any kind of movement regardless of your footwear. 

During my Ireland trip, they saved the day when they went up against the wind and rain, as both my rain and hiking boots weren’t insulated. Woven with spandex fibers, they’re slightly flexible and can be stretched to fit any foot size. For reference, I wear a size 5 shoe and purchased the extra small/small size, which fits me perfectly. 

Rugged Backpack

The Fjallraven Kanken backpack has been my go-to travel backpack for the last eight years. And although it’s been around the world with me and has taken quite a beating since I first purchased it in 2016, the backpack is as sturdy and durable as ever. It may lack some of the flashier organizational features that more contemporary backpacks boast, but its selling features are its compact size, which belies a spacious main compartment, and rugged canvas exterior that can handle everything from spills and rain to mud and wind. It can easily fit up to a 15-inch laptop and a 32-ounce water jug, which makes it a great personal travel item or hiking backpack, which is what I used it for during my trip. 

Thermal Long Johns 

Although the weather in Ireland was fairly mild, there were a few days when the blankets of wind buffeting the coast were downright frigid. When I visited the Cliffs of Moher, for example, the damp wind was throwing me around like a rag doll and cutting through my layers like a knife. Thankfully, I had on a pair of these Thermajane thermal long johns, which I first purchased last year for Iceland, that blocked out the worst of the chill. Lined with soft fleece, they’re ultra-comfortable, warm, and stretchy, so they don’t feel suffocating even when buried beneath other layers. They’re available in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns and have been dubbed Amazon’s best-selling women’s thermal underwear set . But, if that doesn’t convince you, then read through a few of its near-8,000 five-star reviews.

Rain Poncho

Rain in Ireland is a constant, if not somewhat irksome, companion. Over the week-long trip, it wasn't uncommon to experience a drizzle with interspersed sunshine, a torrential downpour, and hail within the same day. For this reason, I purchased a rain poncho so that I could quickly whip it out when the skies opened up. As someone just under 5-foot-1 inches, most of the ponchos I purchased prior were way too big and long for me, which is why I gravitated toward this kids-sized Amazon one ( the brand also has adult sizes ).

With a functional hood and a front zippered pocket, I was pleasantly surprised at how well it fit and how durable it was after being battered with rain and wind. I bought the 2XL size, which is meant for ages nine to 13 and can fit anyone up to 5 feet 3 inches — a win for fellow shorties like me. Plus, the poncho can easily fold up into a small carrying sack, so it’s ideal for traveling light. 

Small Camera Bag

As I was constantly on the move, I wanted an inconspicuous camera bag that would protect my device while being small enough to wear on my person. It’s roughly the same size as a small pocketbook, which meant that I could wear it while sightseeing without it getting in my way. It comes with an adjustable strap and two mesh side pockets to hold additional gear or accessories. This compact water-resistant carrying case withstood some pretty harsh weather, but didn’t suffer any external wear and tear aside from a few grass stains and flecks of mud. While not all cameras may fit within the bag depending on their make and model, my Fujifilm XT30 fit perfectly and left just enough room for extra batteries and chargers. 

Fleece Sweater

I’ve always been partial to a cozy sweater, and this Amazon quarter-zip fleece pullover is no exception. Lightweight yet warm, this ultra-comfortable and affordable sweater goes well with jeans or hiking pants, so it’s a versatile item to add to your travel closet. It comes in seven colors, including red, gray, and green, with sizes ranging from S to 2XL, and its slightly baggy fit is both cozy and flattering. It’s an item that I plan on bringing with me on future trips, especially when hiking and camping is involved as it’s good for layering purposes.

USB Car Converter 

This light and compact gadget was a boon during the hours spent in the car as I could charge multiple devices at once in between stops. The USB car converter comes with two USB charging ports and two, 110-volt AC outlets that are capable of charging larger devices such as laptops and tablets. I was able to charge my phone, Amazon Kindle, portable tire inflator, and multiple camera batteries at once while driving, so it’s ideal for road trips, especially if you'll be traveling in a group. Small enough to fit into the palm of my hand, it can easily be packed away in a personal item.

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