Traveling and experiencing the outdoors is amazing, but it’s even better when you can capture precious moments on an amazing camera. Unfortunately, it can be risky taking your expensive camera equipment traveling or hiking without the proper protection. A quality camera bag solves that issue. The right bag will allow you to travel comfortably while protecting your equipment from bumps and the weather.
With so many cameras on the market, it makes sense that there are countless camera backpacks available as well. However, to make sure you have a premium bag, below we’ve listed the best camera backpacks for travel and what to look for when deciding which backpack will work best for you.
Quick Answer: Best Camera Backpacks
Below is a list of the best backpacks for camera and lenses:
- Best Overall: Lowepro LP37177 ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera Backpack
- Best Budget: AmazonBasics DSLR Camera Backpack
- Best for Hiking: Vanguard Alta Sky 45D Camera Backpack
- Case Logic SLRC-206 SLR Camera Backpack
- Peak Design Everyday Camera Backpack
- Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack
- Manfrotto Pro Light 3N1-36 Camera Backpack
- Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW II Camera Backpack
- Neewer Waterproof Camera Backpack
- Think Tank Photo Airport Commuter Backpack
What to Look for in a Good Camera Backpacks
Here are several things to consider before purchasing a new camera backpack.
1. Comfort
The last thing you want is for your back and shoulders to hurt on your way to capture amazing photos. The best way to avoid that is by finding a backpack that fits you comfortably, evenly distributes the load, and offers good ventilation. Also be sure the backpack is well-padded and includes a hipbelt and sternum strap. The hipbelt will keep the weight on your hips and off your shoulders while the sternum strap will help stabilize the backpack so it doesn’t shift on your shoulders.
2. Weight
Because camera gear is pretty heavy, you’ll want a backpack that is as light as possible while still being effective and comfortable. Due to included padding, which protects your equipment, the backpack will likely be heavier than a typical hiking backpack, but you shouldn’t have any issue finding a quality backpack around five pounds or less.
3. Storage
Most people only consider how much camera equipment they’ll need to store in their backpack, but in addition to that you’ll want to take into account how much extra space the backpack has for things like a jacket, hat, gloves, etc. It’s best to get a bag with a little extra storage space so you don’t overload it. Overloading will wear the backpack down quicker and make it less durable.
4. Organization
It can be a chore trying to keep all of your camera equipment and other travel accessories organized. When shopping for a camera backpack, be sure it has plenty of pockets. Pockets will allow you to separate things like memory cards, hard drives, and batteries.
Also be mindful of the number of compartments the backpack has and whether or not you can move the dividers around. The dividers ensure your camera and lenses are protected in their own specific area. Padding on dividers should also be significant to help protect your gear against bumps.
5. Weatherproofing
If you’re going to be out traveling, hiking, and taking photos, sooner or later you’ll get caught in the rain. Backpacks with a nylon shell are resistant to rain and other materials might come with a waterproof coating. If you’re going to look for a waterproof camera backpack, be sure the seams and zippers are sealed as well so water doesn’t leak into the bag. Some people prefer to buy a backpack with a rain cover that will keep their equipment protected from the elements, but others find this inconvenient because it hinders access to the bag.
Best Camera Backpack Reviews
Now that you know what to look for, here are the best camera bags currently on the market.
Best Camera Backpack Overall
1. Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera & Laptop Backpack
Weight: 6.26lb | Dimensions: 14.17 x 8.66 x 20.47 in | Lenses: 5 | Raincover: Yes | Padded hip belt: Yes | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: 15in
Overall, the 25L Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera & Laptop Backpack is the best camera travel bag you can buy. The top section is made from a tough EVA mold and has protective padding throughout to make sure all of your equipment stays safe. Not only is there room for your camera and tripod, but it can also protect a laptop measuring up to 15-inches. The interior dividers are flexible and allow you to change the backpack’s configuration to properly fit your camera gear. In the event you get caught in the rain, this bag is equipped with rain protection. This high-performance backpack only weighs around five pounds, so if you’re looking for a premium bag for cameras, go with the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera & Laptop Backpack.
Best Budget Camera Backpack
2. AmazonBasics DSLR Camera and Laptop Backpack
Weight: 3.09lb | Dimensions: 13.4 x 8.8 x 17.7 in | Lenses: 4 | Raincover: Yes | Padded hip belt: Yes | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: 17in
If you’ve been on the hunt for the best DSLR camera backpack, be sure to check out the AmazonBasics DSLR Camera and Laptop Backpack. This three-pound backpack measures around 13” x 9” x 18” and can hold 2 SLR camera bodies, up to four lenses, a 17-inch laptop, and several small accessories. The backpack also includes side straps to secure your travel tripod or other large accessories. The dividers in the padded interior can be moved around to suit your needs and make sure everything stays protected. The best part about this camera backpack for DSLR gear is that it’s budget-friendly. The AmazonBasics DSLR Camera and Laptop Backpack has a practical design and sturdy construction at an impressive value that you’re guaranteed to appreciate.
Best Hiking Camera Backpack
3. Vanguard Alta Sky 45D Camera Backpack
Weight: 4.9lb | Dimensions: 12.25 x 9.0 x 19.5 in | Lenses: 5 | Raincover: Yes | Padded hip belt: Yes | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: 13in
When it comes to the best camera backpacks for hiking, the Vanguard Alta Sky 45D Camera Backpack always makes the list. This bag was designed to make sure you’re comfortable and your gear is protected while you’re taking pictures out in mother nature. The backpack weighs less than five pounds, but has a load capacity of almost 20 pounds. It measures 12” x 9” x 19” and has impressive versatility to fit whatever type of photo gear you’re bringing along. The backpack comes with several dedicated organizers, pockets, and connectors, as well as side pockets for your refillable water bottle. This bag is also one of the best hiking backpacks for cameras because it includes a rain cover which offers total rain coverage. The Vanguard Alta Sky 45D Camera Backpack was created to be able to follow you on your photo hikes for countless years to come.
Best of the Rest
4. Case Logic SLRC-206 SLR Camera and Laptop Backpack
Weight: 2.69lb | Dimensions: 12.5 x 8 x 17 in | Lenses: 4 | Raincover: No | Padded hip belt: No | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: 15in
The Case Logic SLRC-206 SLR Camera and Laptop bag is an ideal backpack for photographers. While it weighs less than three pounds, this bag has all the space you need for the perfect photoshoot. The interior is made of memory foam to help protect your LCD screen and it can hold devices up to 10” x 5” x 15”. The base of the backpack is made of a waterproof EVA, so you don’t need to be worried about your gear getting wet if you have to set your bag down on damp ground. Four accessory pockets allow you to keep everything from memory cards to headphones organized while you’re on the go. Breathability and comfort are also highlights of the Case Logic SLRC-206 SLR Camera and Laptop Backpack.
5. Peak Design Everyday Camera Backpack
Weight: 4.43lb | Dimensions: 22.3 x 8.3 x 11.8 in | Lenses: 4 | Raincover: No | Padded hip belt: No | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: 15in
Not only is the Peak Design Everyday Camera Backpack one of the best camera bags for travel, but it’s also stylish. It comes in four different colors and offers up to 20 liters of storage. A great backpack for camera and lenses, it can store a full-frame DSLR camera body and up to four lenses. The interior has three flexfold dividers to protect your drones, cameras, and lenses. The backpack has a 400D waterproof nylon canvas shell and is poly-coated and treated with DWR. It has both exterior and interior pockets, and it can hold a laptop measuring up to 16 inches. This bag also includes a rear sleeve so you can secure it to your luggage set when you’re traveling through an airport or a train station. With so many different features, it’s easy to see why the Peak Design Everyday Camera Backpack is among the best camera bags for traveling.
6. Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack
Weight: 3.2lb | Dimensions: 11.8 x 8.7 x 20.5 in | Lenses: 2 | Raincover: No | Padded hip belt: Yes | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: 15.6in
The Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack gives its users a pleasant surprise when it comes to space and comfort. The bag measures 12” x 9” x 20” and only weighs around three pounds. It can easily hold a DSLR camera, a drone, a laptop (up to 15.6 inches), and multiple other pieces of equipment. There are multiple pockets to help you keep everything organized, and the side panel is designed to conveniently hold your tripod. The hip belt is detachable, and has zippered pockets for smaller items like your keys. If you have a larger load, you can stabilize it on your back with the sternum strap. The storage is fully customizable and the bag gives you quick access to all of your gear, which helps the Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack maintain its spot among the best backpacks for cameras.
7. Manfrotto Pro Light 3N1-36 Camera Backpack
Weight: 4.4lb | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 11 in | Lenses: 7 | Raincover: Yes | Padded hip belt: Yes | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: 15in
The versatility of the Manfrotto Pro Light 3N1-36 easily makes it one of the best travel camera backpack options on the market. There are three different options for how to carry this bag; you can carry it like a backpack, as a sling bag, or as a crossbody backpack. This bag is durable and weighs almost five pounds. It can fit a DSLR camera, a Canon C100, or a DJI Phantom with multiple lenses. It has side openings to give you quick access to your camera or a different lens. It’s also equipped with a rain protector shield. The laptop compartment dimensions are 12” x 2” x 19” and the personal compartment dimensions are 12” x 7” x 6”. If you’re looking for versatility in a camera bag, it’s best to go with the Manfrotto Pro Light 3N1-36 Camera Backpack.
8. Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW II Camera Backpack
Weight: 3.96lb | Dimensions: 12.20 x 10.24 x 19.69 in | Lenses: 3 | Raincover: Yes | Padded hip belt: Yes | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: 15in
If you’re in the market for the best camera backpack for airline travel, the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW II Camera Backpack is a top contender. Not only does it have compression straps so you can secure it to your carry-on luggage, but its dimensions also let you use it as a personal item, even on some budget airlines which means you don’t have to pay for an additional bag. Even if you don’t have any flights booked in the near future, this bag is a solid option to protect your camera equipment. It has three primary storage zones and several pockets to help with organization. It can fit a laptop up to 15 inches as well as accessories like your phone, headphones, hard drive, and keys. Once you put on the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW II Camera Backpack, you’ll understand why so many people rave about it.
9. Neewer Waterproof Camera Backpack
Weight: 1.54lb | Dimensions: 11.8 x 5.5 x 14.6 in | Lenses: 4 | Raincover: No | Padded hip belt: No | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: No
Highlighting the list of the greatest waterproof camera backpacks is the Neewer Camera Case Bag. The exterior is made of a durable waterproof nylon and offers impressive interior storage and anti-shock padding. The bag has removable and adjustable Velcro cushions which allow you to create up to six partitions to store your equipment safely. The side of the bag has two buckles to secure things like your tripod, water bottle, or small umbrella. This impressive backpack measures 15” x 10” x 6” and weighs only 1.54 pounds. Because of its weight, this is also one of the best camera bags for backpacking. It allows you to explore without being weighed down by a heavy bag. For a quality backpack at an amazing price, check out the Neewer Waterproof Camera Backpack.
10. Think Tank Photo Airport Commuter Backpack
Weight: 4.2lb | Dimensions: 12.5 x 18 x 8.5 in | Lenses: 4 | Raincover: Yes | Padded hip belt: No | Tripod storage: Yes | Laptop compartment: 15in
This camera backpack has everything necessary to protect your gear and keep you comfortable. The Think Tank Photo Airport Commuter Backpack measures 13” x 18” x 9” and weighs about four pounds. It can fit a DSLR, 400mm f/2.8, 15” laptop, 10” tablet, and additional lenses and gear. It has a cable lock and locking YKK RC Fuse zippers, so if you know your bag may be unattended for a bit or you have to leave it in your hostel dorm, be sure to bring along your bag lock to keep your gear safe. In addition to storage for your camera gear, this bag also has mesh zipper pockets for things like your passport, snacks, and keys. The Think Tank Photo Airport Commuter Backpack is a simple yet dependable camera bag that you’ll love traveling with.
Your travels and hikes will be much easier once you have a good camera backpack. You won’t have to worry about your shoulders aching as you hike to a lookout point or explore a new city, and you won’t have to worry about your equipment getting banged up in your bag. Camera backpacks are a worthwhile addition to every travel gear collection.
wadood
Very nice post on camera backpacks, i am a journalist and always carry my laptop from one place to another place. so a good backpack is best for the camera. my question is that if you written any post on a backpack that must fit for camera and also for a laptop please reply link. thanks.