If you travel frequently or have a large collection of camera gear, you could benefit from using a camera backpacks. Camera backpacks are dedicated storage units that provide effective organization for your DSLR camera and lenses. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a quality product, and you can easily find camera backpacks under $100.
When choosing a backpack, consider what storage you require. Do you simply need space for your camera and lenses? Or do you require separate compartments for items like water, food, and clothes? Some backpacks have dual storage compartments and can be used as standard backpacks, too.
As you shop, look at the load-bearing capacity and ensure that the backpack can comfortably hold your camera and lenses.
If you are looking for a quality backpack, you can find 10 top choices in this buying guide.
1. Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW II
Our top choice is the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW II. This is one of the most versatile camera backpacks under $100 and offers a large storage capacity. It also has a special side-access compartment so you can quickly access your camera and gear while moving.
The top compartment is very spacious. It’s ideal for storing clothes and other items you may need when out photographing. Alternatively, the bottom section is dedicated to camera storage. It has three dividers that you can reposition using the velcro pads.
In total, the camera compartment can fit one DSLR camera with an attached lens, two to three extra lenses, and an external camera flash. Also, there is space to fit a 15” laptop or smaller tablet together with all your camera accessories.
The shoulder straps have comfortable padding, and there is also an optional waistband to provide extra support when hiking. The exterior of the backpack is incredibly durable and waterproof.
2. Zecti Camera Backpack
The Zecti Camera Backpack is stylish and functional. It is made from high-density, waterproof canvas and there is an additional rain cover, too. This means your photography gear will remain protected from dust, debris, and adverse weather conditions.
This is one of the camera backpacks under $100 that has dual storage compartments. The top section is a simple liner box and can be used to store hiking equipment, water, or food supplies, for example. The bottom section is for your camera gear. It has a removable divider and can comfortably accommodate a DSLR camera with lens, along with two other lenses.
As the divider is removable, you can use this backpack as a normal travel backpack too, and use both storage compartments for essential items. We like the stylish green canvas material, and the shoulder straps are adjustable and made from thick padded material.
There is also a hidden tripod pocket on the outside that would be suitable for a travel tripod, and a compartment in the top section to store a 14” laptop or tablet.
To read more about this one, check out our Zecti Camera Backpack review.
3. MOSISO Camera Backpack
The MOSISO Camera Backpack has overall dimensions of 17.3 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches and is available in three colors – black, blue, or gray.
It offers a simple design that is meant for protection and security. This includes a padded hardshell outer cover to protect your camera gear and accessories.
Inside, the main compartment has ample space. You can fit a large DSLR camera with attached lens, and seven to eight other lenses or accessories. Also, the dividers are completely removable and can be repositioned. This means you can easily configure the storage space to suit a variety of lens and camera sizes.
Due to the large internal storage compartment, this camera backpack could also be used to store a drone. The inside lid also features mesh pockets where you can store items like a smartphone, your wallet, or even a small tablet.
The backpack is made from waterproof material and has a layer of foam padding for extra protection. It also has adjustable straps from 17.72 to 39.4 inches.
4. Abonnyc Camera Backpack
The Abonnyc is one of the most stylish camera backpacks under $100. It is still highly functional, however, and makes a great travel backpack. The backpack is made from high-quality Batik canvas material, which is both durable and waterproof. It also has a decent load-bearing capacity so you can comfortably carry large telephoto lenses.
The camera compartment has two access points. One is on the side, the other on the front. This means you can quickly access your gear and do not have to take your backpack fully off to reach your items.
The camera storage compartment has enough space for a DSLR camera and two to three lenses, plus accessories. There is also a separate top compartment that can be used to store other items. On the side, there is a mesh tripod holder, too.
The stylish design and great functionality make this a backpack that you could use for camera gear or as a simple travel pack.
5. Lowepro Slingshot Edge 250 AW
Having to wear a DSLR camera backpack filled with equipment and accessories can be uncomfortable sometimes. Lowepro’s construction helps to avert and relieve some discomfort while also permitting easy access to everything in the bag without having to take it off.
The Slingshot Edge inner compartment can fit compact DSLR cameras with their attached lenses easily as well as three to four other lenses, accessories, and personal items. However, the bag lacks enough space to fit your laptop because it’s constructed solely to carry photography equipment.
Characterized by a Hideaway Tripod Mount system, you can easily store your tripod or monopod. The Cradle Fit TM pockets help to keep your favorite tablet from impact, while the all-weather cover protects the bag’s content from the elements.
6. Vanguard VEO Discover 46 Sling Backpack
This is a stylish hybrid option ideal for DSLR users that might want to switch between backpack and sling options. With massive space on the inside, the Vanguard VEO Discover 46 provides a home for a 13.3-inch laptop, a DSLR, three to four lenses, a tripod around the front, and a bunch of extra spaces for smaller essentials.
You have access to your kit from the left or right sides and a special water and anti-scratch resistant base keeps everything safe. A bright-colored interior makes finding things easy. The laptop compartment might be a little cramped, and you might get sweaty because of the un-contoured back.
7. Lowepro Tahoe BP 150
The Lowepro Tahoe BP 150 backpack is bug-shaped and easy to use. The bag looks more like a traditional urban backpack than a camera bag. The Lowepro backpack contains a padded hard foam lid that zips around and then down for easy access.
The dividers inside the bag are easy to move and secure, making it easier to configure a DSLR and two to three lenses. The zippered outer pockets provide space for smaller items, while the tall stretch mesh pockets can accommodate other quick-grab items.
With its quilted padding and weather-resistant material, your equipment is safe from the elements. The UltraFlex main compartment folds down to create more space for personal and camera gears. The Tahoe BP 150 can handle anything from street photography to a more serious hike.
Read our full, in-depth Lowepro Tahoe BP 150 review to find out more.
8. Tarion Camera Backpack
The Tarion Camera Backpack is our best selection for waterproof camera bags. The bag is made of durable, water and dust-resistant material that keeps your gear fully protected against heavy rain or dust. You can use it daily in any conditions from a heavy downpour to a day at the beach.
The camera bag has an inner expandable top drawstring that gives extra space to accommodate your gear. Its sides feature an extra inner pouch to store small accessories and a tripod socket. The quick side access compartment ensures you never miss that breathtaking moment.
With an ergonomic back support system comprising padded shoulder straps, an adjustable chest buckle, and ring-style attachments, you can easily customize the bag for a perfect fit and reduce the burden on your back. Apart from the mentioned features, it has an additional anti-theft clip, which provides extra protection to your properties.
9. BAGSMART Camera Backpack
This multi-use, comfortable geographical backpack offers several internal and external accessory pockets for storage, providing portability and convenience for enthusiastic photographers on the go.
The bag provides you with large storage space to store one DSLR without a lens, three to four exchange lenses, a 15-inch laptop, one tripod, and other accessories like SD cards, cables, chargers, and batteries.
BAGSMART’s backpack features a concealed rain cover in the bottom zippered pouch to protect valuable camera and equipment from water and dirt. Also, the heavy padded shoulder straps and thick padding on the back distribute the load on the shoulders perfectly.
10. AmazonBasics DSLR Camera Backpack (Budget Winner)
Our budget option for camera backpacks under $100 is the AmazonBasics DSLR Camera Backpack. This affordable backpack still has great features and a durable build.
It should primarily be used for camera gear as it only has one main compartment. This main compartment has an excellent capacity, however, and can store a camera together with seven to eight lenses. The dividers are removable, so you can customize the interior to suit your gear.
We also like the padded shoulder straps and the water-resistant material this backpack is made from. There is an additional waistband to provide support for longer journeys.
Venture Outdoors with One of the Best Camera Backpacks Under $100
With one of these choices, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a quality camera backpack. If you travel regularly, or simply want to organize your camera collection, any one of these backpacks will allow you to carry your gear safely.
