Keeping your photography equipment organized and clutter-free can be a challenge. With many camera and lens backpacks that feature several pockets, zippers, and compartments, many wish for a more minimalist option.

That's why we've searched the Internet to find the best minimalist camera backpacks 2020 has to offer, based on style, price, and function!

Minimalist camera backpack considerations 

Before we jump into the list, let's agree on what's important to consider when choosing a top shelf camera bag. When faced with so many choices, what sorts of things should we look for?

Size

The size and carrying capacity of your camera backpack is important. You'll want plenty of space for your camera, at least a couple lenses, and all your accessories. But the larger the camera bag, the heavier it may feel on your shoulder. For big bags, look for a lightweight material.

Comfort

You'll want a bag that will rest comfortably on your shoulder for long treks to find that perfect shot. Besides a lightweight fabric, look for bags that have adjustable padded straps. Even weight distribution is also important. Bags that shift the weight toward the bottom are often more comfortable.

Style

Although style is subjective. the minimalist photographer will seek a classic, simple design in their camera bag. An earth-tone canvas with brown leather trim is often preferred. Some prefer a distressed pattern, while others an evenly-colored surface. Our advice: go with what best fits your personality!

Durability

All other considerations can feel moot if your minimalist camera bag isn't durable. When carrying such precious cargo, your camera bag needs to withstand any conditions you throw at it.  Weather-proof material is a must, so consider a waxed canvas exterior. Shock-resistant interior padding is a plus. Strong seam stitching is also important to consider for a long bag life.

But what about traveling? Every photographer needs a bag that can withstand long journeys to and from photoshoots. 

 

What is the best camera bag for traveling?

For extensive travel with your camera equipment, consider a holster bag. The Voyager camera backpack is a lightweight, durable option perfect for securing your essentials on the go.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s jump into the list!

 

21 Best Minimalist Camera Backpacks

1. Voyager Minimalist Camera Backpack
2. WANDRD PRVKE Camera Backpack
3. LowePro FreeLine BP 350 AW
4. CADeN Minimalist Camera Backpack
5. Endurax Minimalist Camera Backpack
6. LowePro ProTactic BP 450
7. LowePro Urban Reporter
8. S-ZONE Camera Backpack
9. BagSmart Minimalist Camera Backpack
10. CADeN DSLR Minimalist Camera Backpack
11. The Lightyear
12. Manfrotto Advanced Shoulder Bag
13. MOSISO Camera Sling Bag
14. CADeN Camera Sling Bag
15. AmazonBasics DSLR Camera Backpack
16. Thule Covert
17. Case Logic Camera Backpack
18. Incase DSLR Pro Pack
19. Zecti DSLR Camera Bag
20. Neewer Waterproof Camera Backpack
21. Tenba Discovery

 

1. Voyager Minimalist Camera Backpack

The Voyager is a stylish camera backpack for photographers who want minimalism (without compromising on functionality).

It also features two different types of material that are extremely resilient: waxed canvas (water-resistant) and 1000D tarpaulin (waterproof material).

Learn more about the Voyager waterproof minimalist camera backpack from the video below:

The anti-theft opening back panel is ideal to keep your gear safe when you're traveling. Another huge perk is that the zippers are lockable so you never need to worry about pickpocketers grabbing your gear!

To learn more about the anti-theft technology behind the Voyager backpack, watch the video below:

Besides how minimal and beautiful the backpack is, here are a few other key things to know about it:

• Super fast side access to your gear
• USB port for charging your devices
• Breathable and comfortable mesh padding
• Waist belt for additional support
• Laptop and tablet sleeve (fits 16" laptops)
• Upper compartment quick access

Those are just some of the highlights, but for a more detailed breakdown, take a look at the video below:

Did we mention how beautiful the backpack looks on camera? If you're looking for a minimalist camera pack without the frills, this will become your go to pack!

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★★

 

Product Highlights

• The most stylish and versatile minimalist camera bag
• Breathable mesh padding for ultimate comfort

The Voyager Quick Specs

• Price: $169-$199
• External size: 17"L x 11” W x 6” H
• Weight: 4 lbs (1.5 kg)
• What Fits: 2-3 cameras, up to 7 lenses, tripod, and 16" laptop
• Color: Grey, Khaki Green with Brown Leather Trim, and Black (1000D Tarpaulin)

 

2. WANDRD PRVKE Camera Backpack

Pros: This high style camera backpack is perfect for minimalists who want to keep a low profile. Its durable nylon and tarpaulin material will keep your gear resistant from rain or snow.

Cons: At over two hundred dollars, the PRVKE is a pricey option, leaving many photographers wondering what extra gear they could buy in its place.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• 3 access points
• Balistic nylon material

PRVKE Quick Specs

• Price: $204
• External size: 18.5 x 16 x 4.7 inches
• Weight:
• What Fits: DSLR, 15” Laptop or Tablet, Accessories
• Color: Black

 

3. LowePro FreeLine BP 350 AW

Pros: The FreeLine's simple, elegant design makes it an attractive minimalist camera backpack. Its Nylon exterior keeps your camera and equipment safe from the elements. Dual side panels offer quick access to your gear.

Cons: At $269.99, the FreeLine is one of the more expensive options on this list.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Lightweight design
• Beautiful, minimalist style

LowePro FreeLine BP 350 AW Quick Specs

• Price: $269.99
• External size: 29.3 x 20.8 x 48.7 cm
• Weight: 1.874 kg
• What Fits: DSLR, DJI Mavic 2 Pro or Zoom, 15” laptop, Tripod
• Color: Black

 

4. CADeN Minimalist Camera Backpack

Pros: The CADeN is a lightweight minimalist camera backpack suitable for any photo shoot. Its uniform khaki design is stylistically elegant. Its water and shock-proof interior keeps your equipment safe during almost any condition.

Cons: The CADeN’s large, bulky exterior can feel cumbersome while traveling to photo shoots.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Adjustable, stress-relieving shoulder strap
• Large carry capacity
• Inexpensive

CADeN Quick Specs

• Price: $33.99
• External size: 17.7 x 11 x 7.9"
• Weight: 2.09 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, 2-3 Lenses, 14” laptop, DJI Drone
• Color: Khaki

 

5. Endurax Minimalist Camera Backpack

Pros: Leather trim and waterproof canvas makes the Endurax a stylish, reliable camera backpack. Flexible and removable dividers offer customization for any photo shoot.

Cons: At 3.84 pounds, the Endurax is a comparatively heavy modern camera backpack.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★☆☆☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• 1 year warranty
• Timeless, minimalist style

Endurax Quick Specs

• Price: $52.99
• External size: 14.4 x 12 x 6.3”
• Weight: 3.84 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, 15.6” Laptop, Tripod, 2 Lenses
• Color: Beige Canvas, with Brown Leather Trim

 

6. LowePro ProTactic BP 450

Pros: The LowePro ProTactic is a high-performance minimalist camera backpack. It's designed with armored protection in mind. Its classic, minimalist design will never go out of style.

Cons: Its large, heavy size may come at the expense of comfort.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• 4-point access to gear
• Large, spacious interior

LowePro ProTactic BP 450 Quick Specs

• Price: $175
• External size: 36 x 22 x 52 cm
• Weight: 2.84 kg
• What Fits: 1-2 DSLR, 15” Laptop, 360 Camera, DJI Mavic 2 Pro or Zoom
• Color: Black

 

7. LowPro Urban Reporter

Pros: The LowePro brand of minimalist camera bags appear on this list multiple times for good reason. Its padded shoulder strap and lightweight design (under 2 pounds!) will comfortably tote your photography equipment for long hauls.

Cons: The LowePro Urban Reporter might be on the small side for photographers who carry lots of equipment.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Detachable padded grip handle
• Removable camera insert

LowePro Urban Reporter Quick Specs

• Price: $59.94
• External size: 11.61 x 3.15 x 9.25”
• Weight: 1.98 lbs.
• What Fits: DSLR, 2 Lenses, Accessories
• Color: Black

 

8. S-ZONE Camera Backpack

Pros: The S-ZONE is a roomy, stylish minimalist camera backpack. Its abundant pockets will safely contain plenty of accessories. And the raincoat inside a bottom zipper pocket will surround your backpack from the elements.

Cons: S-ZONE’s dividers do not fold down, restricting a certain degree of customizability.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Doubles as regular backpack
• Bottom raincoat

S-Zone Camera Backpack Quick Specs

• Price: $47.99
• External size: 11.02 x 8.27 x 17.72”
• Weight: 2.8 lbs.
• What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 Lenses, Accessories
• Color: Khaki or Navy Blue

 

9. BagSmart Minimalist Camera Backpack

Pros: The BagSmart's durable, water-resistant canvas material provides adequate protection for almost any occasion. Although it's not exactly lightweight, the BagSmart is one of the more storage-rich backpacks on this list.

Cons: Its magnetic buckle closing mechanism is less reliable than a zipper or something simpler. At nearly three and a half pounds, it’s one of the heavier options on this list.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

 

Product Highlights

• Shock-absorbing interior
• Adjustable chest strap

BagSmart Quick Specs

• Price: $62.99
• External size: 11.8"L x 7.5"W x 15.7"H
• Weight: 3.24 lbs.
• What Fits: DSLR, 3-4 Lenses, 15” Laptop, Tripod
• Color: Navy Blue with Light Brown Leather Trim

 

10. CADeN DSLR Minimalist Camera Backpack

Pros: Despite its manageable size and weight, the CADeN DSLR minimalist camera bag can pack quite a bit. It's water-repellent polyester material is both fashionable and functionable. Its 1-year warranty makes the CADeN modern camera backpack a risk-free purchase.

Cons: Although water-resistant, the CADeN DSLR minimalist camera backpack is not waterproof.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Sleek, minimalist design
• Rust-resistant alloy zippers
• 1-year warranty

CADeN Quick Specs

• Price: $27.99
• External size: 12.2 x 12.2 x 6.3 inches
• Weight: 2.49 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, 2 Lenses, 14” Laptop, Tripod
• Color: Silver

 

11. The Lightyear

The Lightyear's light, breathable design makes it an excellent minimalist camera backpack. Its USB charger keeps your electronics ready to go. Magnetic buckles secure your essentials conveniently while keeping them safe.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

 

Product Highlights

• Anti-theft back opening
• Waterproof canvas exterior
• Magnetic buckle

The Lightyear Quick Specs

• Price: $169
• External size: 28" x 15.5" x 43cm
• Weight: 2.7lbs (1.23kg)
• What Fits: DSLR, 2-3 lenses, 15” laptop or tablet, additional accessories
• Color: Navy Blue with Dark Brown Leather Trim

 

12. Manfrotto Advanced Shoulder Bag

Pros: This sleek minimalist camera backpack from Manfrotto offers removable and adjustable interior dividers. At only a pound, it's a lightweight minimalist camera bag with comfortable padded shoulder straps.

Cons: While a rain cover to protect its water-resistant material, for $60, photographers might expect complete waterproof protection.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

 

Product Highlights

• Padded shoulder strap
• Rain cover
• Best backpack for minimalist camera gear

Manfrotto Advanced Quick Specs

• Price: $59.00
• External size: 9.25 x 5.51 x 8.46"
• Weight: 14.1oz (0.4kg)
• What Fits: DSLR, Lens, Accessories, Tripod
• Color: Black

 

13. MOSISO Camera Sling Bag

Pros: At under thirty dollars, the MOSISO camera sling bag is an affordable, stylish option. It features a hidden, anti-theft back pocket for your wallet and phone. And it includes a 1-year warranty with purchase.

Cons: Although the MOSISO is lightweight and affordable, it doesn't leave much space for more than one lens or many accessories.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Affordable Price
• Lightweight
• 1-year warranty

MOSISO Camera Sling Bag Quick Specs

• Price: $29.59
• External size: 15.7 x 7.9 x 4.8 inches
• Weight: 1.4 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, Lens, Flash, Tripod
• Color: Black with Gray Accents

 

14. CADeN Camera Sling Bag

Pros: This beautiful minimalist camera bag from CADeN is stylish and functional. Despite its small size and light weight, this shoulder bag can fit lots of equipment. For its low price tag, it has impressive specs, including water-resistant and breathable nylon.

Cons: Its compact size can make locating key pieces of stored equipment a struggle.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Large capacity for its size
• Padded shoulder strap

CADeN Quick Specs

• Price: $35.99
• External size: 12.2 x 4.72 x 9.45 inches
• Weight: 1.98 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, 3 Lenses, Tripod
• Color: Black with Red Trim

 

15. AmazonBasics DSLR Camera Backpack

Pros: The most spacious minimalist camera backpack on this list, photographers will not want for room with this bag. Adjustable, padded shoulder straps keep this backpack's heavy weight evenly distributed. Its handsome, minimalist style has a timeless appearance.

Cons: At over four pounds, this backpack from AmazonBasics might weigh heavily on your shoulders.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Large, spacious interior
• 1-year Amazon Warranty

AmazonBasics Quick Specs

• Price: $51.74
• External size: 13.2 x 9 x 18 inches
• Weight: 19 pounds
• What Fits: 2 Cameras, 3-4 Lenses, Tripod, 17” Laptop, Accessories
• Color: Black

 

16. Thule Covert

Pros: As the name suggests, this minimalist camera bag from Thule is low-profile and covert. Its zip-out divider separated the top and bottom compartments for easy arrangement. A chest strap allows for comfortable weight distribution (and you'll need it!)

Cons: At almost five pounds, the Thule Covert is seriously heavy. Water-resistant but not water-proof.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Origami-inspired divider system
• Dual density padded bottom
• Classic style camera backpack

Thule Covert Quick Specs

• Price: $174.95
• External size: 17.72 x 7.87 x 21.26 inches
• Weight: 4.97 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, Drone, 15” Laptop, 2 Lenses + Flash
• Color: Black

 

17. Case Logic Camera Backpack

Pros: This affordable minimalist camera backpack from Case Logic features padding for your camera and laptop. Its interior is compact but well-organized. With comfortably padded straps, you may not even notice its 3.5 pound weight.

Cons: Some users have reported flimsy, frustrating zipper pulls.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

 

Product Highlights

• Weather hood included
• Padded front for extra shock protection

Case Logic Quick Specs

• Price: $57.75
• External size: 12.01 x 9.06 x 19.49 inches
• Weight: 5 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, 2-3 Lenses, 15” Laptop
• Color: Black with Red Trim

 

18. Incase DSLR Pro Pack

Pros: The Incase DSLR Pro Pack is a spacious minimalist camera backpack sufficient enough for any photo shoot. Its durable Woolenex material will keep the elements at bay. Customizable interior dividers allow you to fit this pack to your needs and not the other way around.

Cons: At nearly $180, this modern camera backpack is a bit steep compared to other available options.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Lightweight, abrasion-resistant fabric
• Adjustable dividers

Incase Quick Specs

• Price: $179.95
• External size: 20 x 12 x 9 inches
• Weight: 3.19 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, 4 Lenses, Flash, 15” Laptop, Tripod
• Color: Black

 

19. Zecti DSLR Camera Bag

Pros: Zecti brings us a reasonably priced camera bag for those who desire minimalism in design and equipment. This lightweight option will carry only the essentials. Its Dacron padded material is both durable and comfortable.

Cons: At the expense of affordability and light weight build, comes scarcity of storage space.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Affordable price tag
• Lightweight

Zecti Quick Specs

• Price: $23.99
• External size: 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches
• Weight: 10.4 ounces
• What Fits: DSLr, Lens, Accessories
• Color: Black

 

20. Neewer Waterproof Camera Backpack

Pros: One of the best minimalist camera backpacks, this option from Neewer is stylish, functional, and affordable. Its durable nylon material is waterproof. Padded cushions are Velcroed in for customizability.

Cons: Photographers with a large frame have reported the straps being too small.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★★

 

Product Highlights

• Lightweight build
• Affordable price tag
• Waterproof

Neewer Quick Specs

• Price: $33.99
• External size: 14.96 x 10.63 x 6.3 inches
• Weight: 1.54 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, Tripod, Flash, 2-3 Lenses, Accessories
• Color: Black

 

21. Tenba Discovery

Pros: This minimalist camera backpack from Tenba is lightweight yet tough. Its padded pockets will keep your laptop and photography equipment safe from unexpected bumps.

Cons: For the nearly one hundred dollar price tag, one might expect more storage for their equipment.

Style: ★★☆☆☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

 

Product Highlights

• Lightweight construction
• Elastic micromesh pockets

Tenba Discovery Quick Specs

• Price: $91.20
• External size: 5 x 10 x 16.75 inches
• Weight: 1.95 pounds
• What Fits: DSLR, Lens, 10” Laptop
• Color: Black with Gray Accents

 

Up Next: The Best Leather Camera Straps

Those are our choices for the 21 best minimalist camera backpacks. Let us know which ones you'd love to check out in the comments below!

If you're looking to add style and functionality to your camera today, have a look at our picks for the best leather camera straps.

UP NEXT: BEST LEATHER CAMERA STRAPS →