Best Camera Backpacks for Photography Enthusiasts

If there’s one thing photographers love to talk about, other than the stories behind their favorite images, it’s gear. Gather a group of shutterbugs and they’ll be engrossed in discussions about their latest lenses or the resolution of their new cameras in no time.

When the topic of camera bags arises, it quickly becomes clear that finding the perfect one is as elusive as capturing the perfect shot. Award-winning outdoor photographer Michelle Craig contributed her professional expertise, helping us test six camera backpacks with a focus on comfort, organization, durability, and the capacity to carry as much camera gear as possible.

WANDRD Veer 18, $118

Pros: Easily the lightest and most packable bag we assessed, the Veer 18 can be stuffed into a pocket the size of a paperback book. Instead of traditional foam dividers, this 18-liter pack utilizes an inflatable sleeve spacious enough for a standard camera body with a medium-sized lens. It also features plenty of pockets and exterior loops for additional gear attachment.

Cons: This bag may not be suitable if you carry an extensive amount of photo gear or venture deep into the wilderness. Better organization for spare batteries and cards would have been beneficial; additionally, there’s no effective way to secure a tripod on the exterior. While the N100D Robic Dynatec fabric appears durable, we need to observe its performance over time. Although the camera cube is held in place by a mesh pocket, a zipper starting at the bottom would have made accessing the camera easier. Moreover, it may not be the most comfortable pack for female photographers.

Best for: Casual city shooting or very light hikes. This bag is ideal for stashing in your checked luggage when you want to avoid carrying a heavier camera bag.

Hex Cinema Backpack, $240

Pros: If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution, Hex’s 27-liter pack allows you to access your gear easily. It provides multiple access points, letting you grab a camera from the top and your frequently used lens from the side. The back zipper enables access to all 12 compartments, accommodating up to two cameras or a camera and a drone. There are ample mesh pockets for extra batteries and filters, while the front pocket is organized for everyday essentials. The padded laptop sleeve fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Cons: One downside is the insufficient space for larger items like a jacket or packable hammock. The lack of gear loops for attaching items is also a notable omission. Additionally, the Velcro tripod straps may be inconvenient, and the chest strap isn’t designed for larger body types.

Best for: Photographers with multiple cameras and lenses. While it may be the least versatile bag tested, it excels in fulfilling its specific purpose. Suitable for short hikes where minimal additional gear is required.

F-Stop Lotus, starting at $240

Pros: The 32-liter Lotus is the most versatile pack we reviewed, featuring a modular system that allows you to adjust the camera compartment according to your needs. Although all the packs we tested are robust, the Lotus stands out due to its sturdy aluminum frame. A discreet pocket at the bottom serves as storage for items like a passport or cash.

Cons: While the versatility is commendable, it requires purchasing additional accessories, which can significantly increase the overall cost. The biggest design flaw is the necessity to remove the pack to access camera gear, as it opens from the back. Laptops up to 13 inches will fit inside unpadded compartments, but added protection is recommended for sensitive devices.

Best for: Photographers needing a multi-purpose pack, especially those not shooting on the fly.

Thule Aspect DSLR Camera Bag, $130

Best Value

Pros: The Aspect offers ample storage above the camera compartment, perfect for all-day hiking. The laptop compartment accommodates 15-inch devices and provides excellent protection. It is one of the more comfortable packs tested, equipped with generous padding.

Cons: There is only one side-access point for camera gear, which can be somewhat restrictive. The Aspect isn’t the most spacious for camera equipment, fitting primarily a camera, two to three medium-sized lenses, and a few accessories. Internal zipper pockets for batteries and memory cards are available, but the design could benefit from additional compartments. There is a significant oversight with only one large side pocket that allows for either a small tripod or a water bottle, but not both.

Best for: Photographers with minimal camera gear looking for a nimble option. Compact enough for bike commuting while carrying essential gear.

EVOC CP 26l, $300

Pros: The CP 26l feels sizable despite being the same capacity as the Thule and Hex models. It boasts the most spacious camera compartment among combo packs, capable of fitting a camera with a long lens attached. Its external hydration bladder pocket is adequately designed, and the built-in rain cover ensures gear stays dry. Additional features include dedicated loops for ice axes and shovels, making it comfortable for winter shooting.

Cons: The pack felt heavy during a day hike, and while the back compartment has ample pockets, they are somewhat cramped. Locating multiple batteries can be challenging in tight spaces. Gear organization could be improved, as items often ended up loose, making it time-consuming to find specific gear.

Best For: Wildlife photographers embarking on longer day hikes.

MindShift Rotation 180 Horizon 34L, $260

Best in Class

Pros: Adventure photographer John Shafer praised the Rotation 180 Horizon as a ‘game changer’ for accessing your camera in challenging terrain. We appreciated the ability to slide the hip belt to bring the camera pouch to the front. Comfortably fitted and spacious at 34 liters, this bag accommodates a considerable amount of gear and offers numerous exterior loops for storage. It is suitable for light, warm-weather overnight use.

Cons: However, the sliding camera compartment could be larger. Fitting a camera with a long telephoto lens can be quite tight, prompting consideration of lens choices prior to leaving. It is worth noting that there is no dedicated rain cover with this model.

Best for: Action and wildlife photographers on the move.