If you’re looking for the best camera backpack, check out all the ones we reviewed.
We love our backpacks. Though we love the minimalist lifestyle, if there’s one thing we hoard, it’s backpacks.
When we decided to rebrand and come up with our new logo, our designer mentioned that she always pictured us wearing a backpack. Hence, our logo includes… you’ve guessed it, a backpack!
Over the years, we’ve tested out dozens of backpacks, and today we’ve narrowed it down to the best camera backpack of all time.
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Last Updated: November 8, 2024
We Found the Best Camera Backpack of All Time
Right now, we have 5 camera backpacks we rotate through based on the activity and how much gear we want to carry. We currently use two of them for travel, and we keep the others around when we adventure locally.
For years, we’ve been on the search for the elusive perfect backpack only to realize one bag can’t do it all. That being said, we found one that’s as perfect as it gets.
We’ll continue to update this post as we get more bags. It’s an addiction, and we can’t stop.
What to Look for in a Camera Backpack
Other than the prerequisite of keeping our camera gear safe, these are what we take into consideration:
- Size
- Weight and Fit
- Durability and Weather Resistance
- Access and Design
Size
It’s always difficult to find the balance between being big enough to carry all our gear but not so big that it’s bulky and cumbersome.
Also, since we’re both on the petite end (Jacob is 5’7 and Esther is 4’11), many bags that look normal on others make us look like children.
- 1-15 L – These are small grab and go bags with space for one camera and small personal items.
- 15-30 L – It’s big enough to put a camera body and 1-2 lenses plus some space for other items. This is our sweet spot.
- 30+ L – For carrying a lot of camera gear. We only carry them for professional shoots or events.
Weight & Fit
Typically, the lighter the bag, the better, but you also want to make sure that there is enough protection for your gear. Since camera gear is heavy, you want to see how it feels fully loaded and on long days out. That’s where we get into fit and how the weight is distributed.
Durability & Weather Resistance
Where will you be taking your backpack? We try to find bags made of durable weather-resistant materials because we never know where we’ll end up.
The last thing we want to do is worry about our gear if it starts raining or if we’re stuck in a sand storm. An additional rainfly can add more protection.
Access & Design
Let’s face it, we want easy access because we’re lazy. The harder it is to take our camera out, the less we end up using it.
We prefer bags that have side access to the camera so that we can swing it around and get it without taking the bag off.
Besides that, the design and how it looks matter too. There are some small design details that we’ve learned to love over time and we’ll talk about those with each bag. Some of the features we look for are:
- Compression straps to pack down the bag so it’s not bulky when the extra space isn’t being used.
- Organization for all the small camera accessories
- Sternum and Waist Straps to help distribute the load
- Adaptability – is there more than one way to use the bag
Best Camera Backpacks for Everyday
These are the bags we use most. Keep in mind, we’re carrying our DSLR and one additional lens. Besides that, we have a battery bank, a Lume Cube (use code JACOBTHEFU for 10% off), a light layer, water bottle, and occasionally a drone. Plus, for when we travel, each of these bags has a dedicated and easy to access laptop sleeve.
1. Wandrd Prvke (editor’s Choice) →
If we had to choose one camera backpack to keep, it would be this one.
I’ve worn the bag full of gear all day, and it’s still comfortable. I strap the tripod to the side where the water bottle goes, but you can use the additional accessory straps to put it elsewhere.
Pros
- Modular camera gear organization
- Side access to a camera
- Secret pocket for valuables
- Low profile
- Roll-top design makes it expandable
- Optional waist and accessory straps
- Weather-resistant
- Dedicated rainfly pocket
Cons
- Camera side access is from the left side (it feels more natural on the right side to me)
- Roll-top is not as quick to access
- No dedicated storage for waist straps
- Limited organization if you have a lot of small accessories
2. Peak Design Everyday Backpack →
We’ve had the Everyday Backpack longer than any other bag. I use this day-to-day in the city and especially loved it while living in NYC. Everything has easy access with zippers to both sides. Plus, everyone loves the stylish look of this bag.
It comes in two sizes, 20L and 30L. We use the 20L bag because we don’t need to carry as much gear anymore.
We still have the first version. Since then they’ve updated it, and I’ll post a review on their updates soon. They also came out with two variations of this bag, one with a zipper instead of the top flap and one that is a tote backpack version.
Pros
- You can configure the interior to fit your needs
- Easy and quick access from two sides and the top
- Access the sides and panel pockets while still wearing the bag
- Plenty of organization for smaller items in the side panels made specifically for camera gear
- Weatherproof shell
Cons
- Expansion on top doesn’t feel as secure when at it’s at max capacity
- Unpadded waist straps
- Not as easy to put back all the camera dividers
3. Lowepro Freeline BP350 AW →
Jacob won the Freeline at a B&H raffle. When we started using it, it was eerily similar to the Peak Design Everyday Bag. It has all the functionality of the Peak Design bag and also a few added features specific for camera gear.
My biggest complaint is that everyone knows Lowepro makes camera bags, and it can be a target for theft in touristy areas. We still use it from time to time, but it’s more of a bench warmer at this time.
Pros
- Modular camera organization system that can be easily removed
- Organization pockets for camera gear
- Side access zippers on both sides
- Weather resistant
- Additional gear box included
Cons
- Looks very much like a camera bag if you’re worried about theft
- Feels like a less-stylish copy of the Everyday Backpack
- Waist straps aren’t padded
- Doesn’t expand
4. Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW →
The LowePro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW is another great backpack option if you like flexibility in how you use it. The coolest feature is that the removable camera cube comes with its own straps so it can be carried separately.
Pros
- Modular camera organization system that can be easily removed
- Camera cube can be carried on it’s own with the included straps
- Organization pockets for camera gear
- Stowaway backpack straps
Cons
- Looks very much like a camera bag if you’re worried about theft
- One large zipper to access the cube and main compartment
5. Manfrotto BeFree Backpack III →
The Manfrotto BeFree III is another great option for an everyday bag, giving you plenty of space for your camera gear, along with some general cargo space for everyday items.
Pros
- Weather-resistant material
- Doesn’t scream camera backpack
- Modular system
- Unique tripod pouch to protect your tripod
- Lots of organization
Cons
- Laptop is on the outside of the bag furthest from your back
- Straps are on the thinner side which could be uncomfortable if you have a full load
6. Nomatic Luma Camera Pack →
The Nomatic Luma Camera Pack is made in collaboration with Peter McKinnon so you know it’s well thought out. Sized at 18L it’s made for compact mirrorless cameras. It has three access points, a unique tripod carry, and it’s water resistant.
Pros
- Top, side, and back access
- 16″ laptop sleeve
- Side-access zipper
- Tuck-away tripod boot
- Water bottle section has a magnetic closure when it’s not being used
Cons
- Made for packing light, if you sometimes carry more gear, you’ll need a separate bag
7. Boundary Supply Prima System →
When researching the best camera backpack, we kept seeing the Prima System from Boundary Supply pop up. At first glance, it has a lot of cool features, and I really wanted to fall in love with it.
There are aspects of it that I like, but I think it misses the overall mark when it comes to functionality. I’ve included it in this review since so many people swear by it, so you can decide for yourself if it meets your needs.
Pros
- Very high quality and durable material
- Lots of modular organization that is removable and works on its own
- You can customize it to how you want to use it
- Camera bag can be removed and used on its own
Cons
- The bag is heavy on its own
- Top access isn’t fast and I don’t like the massive zipper down the middle
- Camera cube sits awkwardly in the bag making some of the space useless
Best Camera Backpacks for Adventure
Sometimes we need a more rugged bag that has more support. That’s where adventure camera backpacks come in. Right now we only have one that we use, but we also got a recommendation from a friend who’s always out hiking.
8. Lowepro WHistler Backpack 450 AWII →
This backpack was perfect when we were in Portland because of the rainy weather. It’s got great support for hiking so we can carry a ton of gear, but we can easy access all of it without putting the bag down.
When it comes to everyday wear, it doesn’t really make sense for us since it’s a bit overkill. Plus, there isn’t a dedicated spot for a laptop so we rarely use it for that reason.
Pros
- Tons of storage for camera gear
- Weather-resistant material and a rainfly pocket
- Great support to carry heavy loads
- Easy to flip the bag using the waist straps so you can access your gear without putting it down
Cons
- Built primarily for camera gear with limited space for other items
- No laptop area
- Bulky waist straps can’t be tucked away
- Looks like a camera bag
9. Wandrd Fernweh →
The WANDRD FERNWEH is a mix of an adventure, travel, and camera backpack giving you tons of features. We got our hands on a prototype and did a video review you can check out below.
Pros
- Modular organization system that can be easily removed
- Tons of padding focused on comfort with heavy loads
- Four access points giving you plenty of options
Cons
- Water bladder on the flap of the bag putting weight far from your back if you’re backpack is emptier
10. Lowepro Photosport Pro III 55L →
I love that there are more and more options for backpacking bags that are made for camera gear. The LowePro Photosprt Pro III has great options to help you carry your camping and photography gear.
Pros
- Modular system that can be used in different ways, including smaller day bags
- Luxurious padding focused on comfort with heavy loads
- There is a larger version if you need more capacity
Cons
- Bladder on the side of the bag making it off balance if you don’t have a counterweight
11. Atlas Athlete →
We’ve been eyeing the Atlas Athlete backpack for a while, but until we get our own, our friend who swears by it has given us some feedback.
He travels with a lot of gear to capture amazing outdoor photos and put this backpack through the test in all types of environments.
Pros
- Modular and customizable to your needs
- Interchangeable panel that gives you more storage space if you take camera gear out
- Quick access through back panel
- Expandable giving you plenty of space for other gear
- Fits a water bladder with dedicated tube
- Can remove waist support when you don’t need it
Cons
- Have to take the bag off to get to your gear
- DSLR cameras have to sit flat without a lens which adds an extra step before you can take photos
- Outdoorsy look. Sure, you can wear it in the city, but you’ll look like a backpacker.
Best Lightweight Backpacks
These are some great options for those of you who want something smaller and lightweight. You sacrifice space for other personal items, but they’re much easier to grab and go.
12. Wandrd Sling →
Ever since we started using the WANDRD PRVKE, it has become our go-to travel backpack, so we were excited to check out their new WANDRD Sling.
It comes in two colors and 3 sizes (3L, 6L, 9L). We opted for the 6L to have something smaller to carry with us around town when we just need our camera. It has some great features like the security strap to keep it closer to your body when you’re moving, and a water bottle holder on the bottom that keeps it securely in place.
Pros
- High quality, weatherproof material
- Plenty of organization
- Can be worn three ways
- Has a security strap to keep it closer to your body
- Water bottle/tripod holder that packs away
- Optional add-on to still carry a laptop on the 6L
Cons
- Limited if you’re trying to carry a lot of gear
- If your gear is heavy, it’s harder to distribute the weight, unlike a backpack
13. Nomatic Peter McKinnon Sling →
The Nomatic Peter McKinnon Sling has some unique features that set it apart from other slings. My favorite part is the quick closure system that lets you open and close the bag with one hand when you need quick access to it! You can also attach a tripod to it with the optional external molle straps
Pros
- Quick closure system that can be used with one hand
- Dedicated storage for memory card, camera batteries etc
- 3 ways to carry the bag, shoulder, cross-body, sling
- External molle hooks for extra gear
- Water-resistant materials and zippers
Cons
- Made for mirrorless so it’s tight with DSLR cameras
14. Brevite The Jumper →
The Jumper by Brevite is a small camera backpack that is compact, lightweight, but still has enough dividers to customize. It comes in a bunch of different colors and doesn’t screen camera backpack. There’s easy access to your gear through the front or side panel, and still enough space to pack other items in the top half of the backpack.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight.
- Separate laptop pocket fits up to a 16″ Macbook.
- Quick access to camera from the side.
- Secure passport pocket.
- Luggage passthrough
- Hidden pocket for valuables.
- Can still fit a 70-200 zoom.
Cons
- Limited space if you carry a lot of gear.
- Rain cover sold separately.
15. Peak Design Sling →
We use this bag when all we need is our camera and some small items. We have the original 5L model (and it also came in 10L), but their newest version comes in 3L, 6L, and 10L. The 10L allows you to strap a tripod on it.
I especially love that I can conveniently swing it from my back to front to access my camera. I can even fit in an additional lens if I’m not carrying anything else.
Pros
- Easy to adjust the strap with one hand
- Weatherproof material
- Extra pockets to organize smaller items
- Smaller versions (3L & 6L) can be worn on your waist too
Cons
- 3L can only fit a POS camera
- 10L is the only one that will fit a 13inch laptop
- Midsize (the one we use) is too small if you need more than a DSLR & 2 lenses (excluding large lenses like the 70-200mm)
16. Chrome Niko Camera Sling →
The Chrome Niko Camera Sling is a great option if you need a bit more organization. With additional pockets and a flap to tie down tripods, it packs a lot of punch for its size.
Pros
- Lots of organization
- Dedicated flap to carry a tripod
- Quick adjustable straps
- Can be worn on the hip
- Extra strong connection points to the strap
Cons
- Only comes in a 5L size
- If tripod is connected, it’s hard to access one of the pockets
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
Have you tried any of these? What do you think is the best camera backpack of all time?
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Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.