Tech

Best Camera backpacks in 2024

1. Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack (21L)

Best backpack for photographers who need to travel light and fast

SPECIFICATIONS

External dimensions (WxDxH): 45 x 34 x 18 cm (expanded)
Internal dimensions (WxDxH): Not specified
Backpack type: Cube/daypack
Camera access: Top
Laptop compartment: No
Tripod fastener: No
Chest / Waist strap: Yes / No
Baggage trolley strap: No
Rain-proof cover: N/A
Weight: 0.6kg

2. Gomatic McKinnon Camera Backpack (25L)

The best backpack for general use

SPECIFICATIONS

External dimensions (WxDxH): 33 x 19 x 48 cm
Internal dimensions (WxDxH): 28 x 14 x 28 cm
Backpack type: Split photo/daypack
Camera access: Top, front
Laptop compartment: 16 inch
Tripod fastener: Yes
Chest / Waist strap: Yes / No
Baggage trolley strap: Yes
Rain-proof cover: Optional extra
Weight: 1.4kg

3. Shimoda Explore V2 (35L)

Best backpack for outdoor and adventure DSLR photographers

SPECIFICATIONS

External dimensions (WxDxH): 29.5 x 20 x 54 cm
Internal dimensions (WxDxH): 28.5 x 19 x 53 cm
Backpack type: Split photo/daypack
Camera access: Top, front
Laptop compartment: 15 inch
Tripod fastener: Yes
Chest / Waist strap: Yes / Yes
Baggage trolley strap: Yes
Rain-proof cover: Yes
Weight: 2.61kg

As the name suggests the Explore V2 backpack range is designed to suit the needs of the travel/adventure photographer and it does this with aplomb! You’ll enjoy populating the various compartments and pockets of this backpack with a range of DSLR accessories. You can then access various items quickly and easily using one of the multiple entry points into the bag. As with the McKinnon 35L (reviewed above), you need to buy additional internal storage packs – or Core module units – to help keep your camera gear organized.

4. Shimoda Urban Explore 25

Best backpack for carrying your gear in style

SPECIFICATIONS

External dimensions (WxDxH): 31 x 20 x 49cm
Internal dimensions (WxDxH): 25 x 16 x 48cm
Backpack type: Photo/video
Camera access: Back and side
Laptop compartment: Yes
Tripod fastener: Yes
Chest / Waist strap: Yes / No
Baggage trolley strap: Yes
Rain-proof cover: No
Weight: 1.9kg

We feature another Shimoda backpack in this buying guide – the Shimoda Explore V2 – but the Urban Explore is a new range from Shimoda. Backpacks in the Urban Explore range are available in three sizes – 20L, 25L, and 30L and we took the midrange version for a test shoot. At 25 L the Urban Explore wasn’t too heavy to carry on a long walk (I clocked up 13,000 steps on that shoot) but it was capacious enough to transport a wide range of equipment.

Unlike the Shimoda Explore V2 range, the Urban Explore backpacks ship with an insertable core unit that you can configure using ‘hook and loop’ pads. This enables you to customize the interior of the backpack to suit very specific kit storage requirements. If you do want to use the Shimoda Urban Explore as an everyday bag simply remove the core unit and fill the 25L space with whatever you like. It also boasts two side pockets that you can use to store a tripod and a water bottle for example.

5. Lowepro PhotoSport X (35L)

Best backpack for cross-purpose sport and photography use

SPECIFICATIONS

External dimensions (WxDxH): 31 x 24 x 54 cm
Internal dimensions (WxDxH): 30 x 22 x 52 cm
Backpack type: Split photo/sports
Camera access: Back and top
Laptop compartment: No
Tripod fastener: Yes
Chest / Waist strap: Yes / Yes
Baggage trolley strap: No
Rain-proof cover: Yes
Weight: 1.56kg

The X in this backpack’s name indicates the cross-functionality of its design as a transporter of sports gear (such as mountaineering paraphernalia) or photography equipment. As with most backpacks in this guide, you have the option of purchasing internal storage units (Lowepro’s are called GearUp Pro boxes) that are designed to contain camera kit such as lenses, camera bodies, etc. Each box features adjustable dividers to suit your camera storage needs.

GearUp boxes are available in different sizes so that you can completely fill the interior of the backpack, or use a smaller box to contain your camera kit and squeeze in some extra items. Each GearUp Pro box opens via a zip and it gives your camera kit an extra layer of protection. You can use straps to secure the GearUp Pro box to the interior of the backpack so that it doesn’t fall out (though we found these straps rather fiddly to attach).

As you’d expect from Lowepro the PhotoSport X bag is sturdily constructed. A 45L version is available, though we tested a 35L backpack. The backpack’s Nylon and Polyester exterior helps protect your kit from wet weather (which was appreciated during our test shoot when it started to rain). If the rain gets more torrential you can unzip the bottom compartment and whip out a bright orange weather wrap that fits over the entire backpack. Like the Shimoda Explore V2, the PhotoSport X keeps its shape thanks to a rigid metal frame.

Best Camera backpacks in 2024

1. Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack (21L)

SPECIFICATIONS

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