Though carrying equipment may be a more significant concern for wildlife and travel photographers as compared to studio photographers, everyone needs a good backpack to store and carry equipment.
However, there are numerous things that you must consider before investing in a camera backpack. Of course, you should choose one that suits your style, but there are other factors to consider as well. A good backpack should be comfortable to carry, durable, light on the wallet, and have enough room for your camera and its accessories.
Luckily, nowadays there’s a huge variety of camera bags – each with its own unique features. From extra space for clothing to sleek minimal designs for public use, there’s something out there for everyone. Not sure which camera bag to pick? Take a look at our helpful guide on the best camera backpacks to help you decide.
1. Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II Camera & Laptop Backpack (Overall Winner)
This item is the most versatile backpack for all your photography needs! The LowePro ProTactic BP 350 AW II does a lot more than simply carry your camera. You can move around its thoughtfully positioned Velcro dividers to accommodate a laptop as well as a drone! That’s how spacious it is.
External loops, straps, and a SlipLock tripod cup will help you carry several accessories. The bag has enough space for a tripod or monopod, a neoprene flash holder, and a phone case.
ActivZone System technology makes this backpack comfortable to carry. It provides targeted cushioning and support at the shoulder blades, lumbar, and waist area. It is weather-resistant and has a built-in All Weather AW Cover to protect your belongings from bad weather.
The best part, though, has to be its lifetime warranty which assures consumers of the backpack’s quality and durability. Though it is a little heavy on the pocketbook, this backpack ticks all the right boxes. It is, therefore, well worth the price tag.
2. Thule Aspect
Don’t let this sleek looking backpack fool you into thinking it doesn’t have adequate space. It can safely carry your camera, laptop, tablet, and also a small drone! The Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack is made of 100% Nylon and has a removable padded hip belt, shoulder straps, and air-mesh back panel to ensure style and comfort. Its sternum strap makes carrying larger loads a breeze!
The only drawback this backpack might have is that the Velcro dividers are of poor quality so that they may wear out quickly. The DSLR compartment is also hard to reach. Though this isn’t too much of a problem, it may mean that you’re unable to whip out your camera quickly. However, overall, this is a great backpack that has excellent value for money.
3. Gitzo Adventury
The Gitzo Adventury Backpack by Manfrotto is the perfect backpack for wildlife photographers who find themselves hiking often. It can easily carry a few telephoto lenses as well as a large tripod. This handy backpack has more than enough space to accommodate a few DSLR cameras with accessories, a laptop, a tablet, and even a drone.
Its rain top cover makes sure your equipment stays safe in all sorts of weather conditions. This is a durable, rugged backpack that can be utilized for all kinds of outdoor adventures! The only drawback you might face with this backpack is that it can get quite heavy when it’s packed and, therefore, hinder traveling large distances on foot.
4. Incase DSLR Pro Pack
A thoughtfully designed backpack, the Incase DSLR Pro Pack has ample space for your DSLR, lenses, laptop, and tablet. The streamlined backpack opener on this backpack gives you easy access to all of your gear. This means that you don’t have to waste time fiddling around in your bag trying to find what you need. This backpack has a tough build and is weather-resistant, so it’s a great backpack for nature and wildlife photography.
Although there is enough space for all your camera equipment to fit in easily, there is no room to pack food or clothing if you go camping or go on long hikes. In addition, users may have some trouble with the backpack’s tricky tripod loops. These loops make packing and unpacking a tripod complicated and time-consuming. As a camera backpack, it does a great job. But compared to other camera backpacks, it seems lacking.
5. Manfrotto MB MA-BP-R Advanced Rear Backpack
The Manfrotto MB MA-BP-R Advanced Rear Backpack is every travel photographer’s dream come true. This backpack is as light as a feather, yet durable and functional. A unique, stylish design makes this the perfect backpack to use when going on many shoots.
Although the backpack’s rather compact, you can fit in all your necessary equipment perfectly. As a backpack, the Manfrotto is not too bulky or big and. It can fit perfectly into airplane or train cabinets, making it the perfect travel companion.
Although the main compartments are waterproof, the straps aren’t and can be a bit uncomfortable when traveling. The small size of the backpack means that you can only store small laptops in it, so you have to be careful about what you take on long trips if you intend on using this backpack.
Its best feature is the renowned Manfrotto Protection System. This system keeps your camera gear safe from pickpockets thanks to its new lockable zippers. With this protection system, you can walk through crowded places without having to worry about anyone stealing your expensive gear.
6. Tenba DNA
Tenba DNA 15 is the most understated backpack on our list. The backpack has a versatile roll-top that opens to protect the equipment inside the bag from adverse weather conditions. It also allows for extra storage space. Unique features, such as a 3D ventilating air mesh and Tenba’s Pivot-Fit, make carrying the backpack comfortable and easy.
The backpack is durable and weather-resistant thanks to its water-repellent 600 Denier Helix technology. The Tenba DNA 15 is a simple, chic, comfortable backpack that is great for all sorts of photography, whether its urban or wildlife. Padded inserts within the backpack can be removed to make the bag suitable for everyday use too. Thus, this bag is the perfect all-rounder on our list.
7. Peak Design Everyday Backpack
The Peak Design Everyday Backpack is a universal backpack that can be used as a camera bag, a laptop case, and even an everyday bag. MagLatch hardware ensures that access to the bag is secure and your equipment is protected against pickpockets. The bag is weatherproof and roller friendly, which is a unique feature rarely found in other camera backpacks. Its weatherproof exterior zips and 500D nylon canvas shell keep gear protected from the rain.
Another feature of this backpack is its hidden external carry straps that can be used for coats, tripods, or other gear. Though great to look at, this bag is rather expensive. It’s saving grace, though, is its versatility and great design – both of which are unparalleled.
8. Estarer SLR/DSLR Camera Backpack (Budget Winner)
This backpack will truly give you a bang for your buck. The Estarer Backpack is packed with great features such as internal dividers. The exterior is also weatherproof so you can use the bag without having to check the weather forecast. The backpack also has ample space for all your accessories.
You can remove the Velcro dividers if you want to turn the camera backpack into a backpack suitable for everyday use. Its versatility, combined with the great material it is built from (water-resistant nylon), make this an excellent choice for photographers who don’t want to spend too much on a camera backpack but also don’t want to compromise on quality.
Choosing a Camera Backpack
A good quality camera backpack is just as essential as any other piece of expensive photography equipment. A backpack makes it easy for you to carry around your camera. It also protects your equipment from various external conditions, such as bad weather.
For these reasons, investing in a good quality camera backpack is important. The right backpack can last a long time and is something we highly recommend. Use our guide to help you pick out the camera backpack that is most suitable for you.
