15 Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking
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Being a photographer means that you’re on the go, and have creative freedom to explore what the world has to offer. What better way than to do so when you’re out in the wilderness?
To search for the best camera backpack for hiking, consider these following needs: padding, resilient material, space, storage, and weight.
Today, we’ll give you our rundown of the top 15 best camera backpacks for hiking, and tips on how to wear them.
Let’s dive in!
What to Consider
Protection
It's known that hikes can be tedious and rough at times. But, finding the best camera backpack for hiking that has the right amount of protection for your DSLR and other equipment is a must.
Finding interior padding and durable material will benefit you throughout your hike. This will lessen the anxiety of what would happen to your camera as you go on your next hike or backpacking journey.
Weight
Comfort is key when it comes to going on hikes and carrying large amounts of equipment on your back.
It’s significant to find the best camera backpack for hiking. You want a hiking camera backpack that’s comfortable and provides good ventilation. Watch out for features such as sternum straps and waist belts, which can reduce the weight of your backpack.
Storage
Having great storage space in a hiking camera backpack will make organization easier. The more modular dividers, the better! After all, this is a key essential to finding the best backpack for cameras and hiking. You want to have room to put your DSLR, memory cards and other equipment to take on your hike.
Find a backpack that has straps attached to its sternum and waistline so that you can carry around bigger equipment.
Durability
It’s a good concept to have when purchasing a hiking camera backpack. If you want to find the best camera backpack for hiking, think about purchasing a hiking camera bag that has durable materials such as nylon and polyester.
Think about what would be the best weather-proof backpack out there to take on your next hike.
Size
Depending on your hike, finding the right size for a hiking backpack with camera compartments will ease your decision making in search of the best camera bag for hiking. The liter sizes range from 20L all the way to 100L hiking backpacks.
Factors to keep in mind are your height and weight. For instance, If you stand 5’10 and above, then it would be appropriate to buy a larger backpack.
Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking
- Voyager Canvas Camera Backpack
- Burton F-Stop Pack
- Peak Designs Everyday Backpack
- Atlas Athlete Camera Pack
- Vanguard Alta Sky 45D Backpack
- Vanguard Havana 48 Backpack
- Lowepro Photo Sport
- Lowepro Whistler BP 450 AW
- Thule Aspect DSLR Camera Backpack
- Mountainsmith Tanuck 40 Camera Pack
- Tamrac Anvil 23 Pro Camera Backpack
- Endurax Extra Large Camera DSLR/SLR Backpack
- Shimoda Explore 40 Backpack
- Daytripper: Ruggard Thunderhead 35 DSLR & Laptop Backpack
- Mindshift Gear BackLight 26L BackPack
1. Voyager Canvas Camera Backpack
The Voyager Canvas Camera Backpack is very lightweight, and includes dual tripod support. Not only is it made with durable waxed canvas (and a waterproof material option), but it also includes breathable mesh padding for comfort.
This would be the best camera backpack for hiking because of its organized storage space. The Voyager can fit around six lenses and your DSLR as well as provide quick side access from its side pockets.
Another neat feature of this hiking camera bag is its prevention of theft. This hiking camera backpack is the best camera bag for hiking because of its anti-theft opening back, which can keep all your equipment safe and sound.
Style: ★★★★★
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Voyager Canvas Camera Backpack Specs
- Price: $169.00
- External size: 17 in x 11 in x 6 in
- Weight: 3.4 lbs
- What Fits: 2 DSLRs, 1-7 lenses, 16” laptops and tablets
- Color: Khaki, Grey, Army Green, Black
2. Burton F-Stop Pack
A hiking backpack with great camera compartments, the F-Stop pack includes various amounts of pockets for storage. If you’re looking for a hiking backpack that has a 28L capacity, then this backpack is the one for you!
Yet, beware of the five pounds that you could be carrying around throughout your hike. Although there is generally good padding, the backpack does not include a waist-belt.
Kind of a bummer!
Style: ★★★★★
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Burton F-Stop Pack Specs
- Price: $174.97
- External size: 25.5 in x 12 in x 7.5 in
- Weight: 5.1 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses, 13” laptop
- Color: True Black, Drab Crinkle
3. Peak Design Everyday Backpack
Made with 400D recycled fabric, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack includes great organization and a nice aesthetic.
This would include: side panel access, customized camera compartments, and great amount of comfort.
Because of its material, the Everyday Backpack is also weather resistant. This would be the best camera bag for hiking and backpacking! Hence, this hiking photo backpack would be the perfect back for an "everyday" photographer.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Perk Designs Everyday Backpack Specs
- Price: $289.95
- External size: 24.5 x 14.2 x 7.8 in
- Weight: 4 lbs. 10.4 oz.
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses, 15” laptop, water bottles and tripods
- Color: Charcoal, Jet Black, Midnight
4. Atlas Athlete Camera Pack
Coated with water-resistant material, the Atlas Athlete Camera Pack contains great storage space. It can fit around five camera lenses and other hiking essentials.
Despite being on the pricey side, this hiking camera backpack is not that bad for a four year old brand! Another thing to keep an eye out for is the spacing and organization of this camera bag. You could experience lopsided imbalance due to the built in hydrated sleeve designed on the side.
Another plus is that this Camera Pack includes waist straps, which makes it easier for hiking.
We'll say that this would be the best camera backpack for cameras and hiking if you plan to go on a simple hike.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★☆
Atlas Athlete Camera Pack Specs
- Price: $395.00
- External size: 22 x 11 x 6 in
- Weight: 4.6 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 5 lenses
- Color: Yellow, Black
5. Vanguard Atla Sky 45D Backpack
This is the best backpack for cameras and hiking from Vanguard because of the number of storage options it offers. From hiking gear to drones, this backpack can carry it all. But the downside is that this backpack almost weighs 5 lbs.
It may not be the most stylish-looking backpack from this list so far, but it can still carry a lot, making it worth a while.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★☆
Vanguard Atla Sky 45D Backpack Specs
- Price: $177.98
- External size: 12.25 x 9.0 s 19.5 in
- Weight: 4.85 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR,1-2 lenses, tripod, 13” laptop
- Color: Black, Grey
6. Vanguard Havana 48 Backpack
Who would have thought that another Vanguard brand would make it on this list? Well, this could be a sign that it's a pretty reliable brand.
Not only does this Vanguard backpack come with heavy padding, but with customized camera compartments. This would be considered our second best camera backpack for hiking.
Unlike the Sky 45D Backpack, the Havana is more lightweight and affordable price-wise.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★☆
Vanguard Havana 48 Backpacks Specs
- Price: $89.99
- External size: 18.7 x 9.1 x 2 x 12 in
- Weight: 2.73 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-5 lenses, a flash, 15” laptop, water bottles
- Color: Tan, Blue
7. Lowepro Photo Sport
Lowepro is the second most lightweight hiking photo backpack. This hiking camera bag can carry most DSLRs as well as mirrorless cameras. It's available in two colors, and comes with waist harnesses that will support your back while on a hike.
For the price of almost $120, this backpack makes it easier for you to move around in.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Lowepro Photo Sport Specs
- Price: $119.43
- External size: 9.6 x 7.67 x 20 in
- Weight: 2.6 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-4 lenses, compact tripods, mirrorless cameras, 2-liter hydration reservoir, jacket, bike helmet
- Color: Black, Horizon Blue
8. Lowepro Whistler BP 450 AW
I guess you can say that besides Vanguard, Lowepro comes in at a close second when it comes to backpack brands.
The Whistler BP 450 AW comes with a huge space for storage. We're talking several cameras, batteries, tripods, jackets, foot, water and hiking boots. How can this not be considered one of the best camera backpacks for hiking?
Since Lowepro can cost about $400 to $500, we've found you a good deal that starts at $199.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Lowepro Whistler BP 450 Specs
- Price: $199.00
- External size: 13 x 10 x 23.6 in
- Weight: 6.8 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, mirrorless cameras, 1-8 lenses, Flash, GoPro
- Color: Gray
9. Thule Aspect DSLR Camera Backpack
For a small hiking camera backpack, the Thule Aspect is the best backpack to use when going on simple and short hikes.
This compact backpack includes many compartments and pockets. Not only can a DSLR fit into such a backpack, but other lenses and laptops and tablets that are up to 15 inches.
If you're looking for a rather simple and comfortable backpack to carry, then this backpack is a match. Just be aware that it’s not waterproof, and probably the best camera bag for hiking short-term.
Style: ★★★★★
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★★
Value: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★☆
Thule Aspect DSLR Camera Backpack Specs
- Price: $110.95
- External size: 11.8 x 8.7 x 20.5 in
- Weight: 3.2 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses, 15.6” laptop, iPad, flash
- Color: Black
10. Mountainsmith Tanuck 40 Camera Pack
This hiking camera backpack from Mountainsmith comes with immense storage space. Mountainsmith is a brand that also carries the best camera backpacks for hiking due to its designed organizational space. Because of its bulkiness, it's considered as the best camera bag for hiking despite being 5 lbs. Hence, this would be the best backpack for cameras and hiking for long-term travel.
With its water resistant material and spacious interior, this backpack can hold 40L. It also comes with a detachable top lid that's used as a chest mount mini-pack.
Moreover, the Tanuck 40 comes with great compartmentalization as well as great material.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Mountainsmith Tanuck 40 Camera Pack Specs
- Price: $99.95
- External size: 11.75 x 12.25 x 5.5 in
- Weight: 1.13lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-5 lenses, 15” laptop
- Color: Black, Light Grey, Army Green
11. Tamrac Anvil 23 Pro Camera Backpack
Since it's been around for 43 years, Tamrac has never failed in creating new products. With the Anvil 23 Pro, you're looking at a water resistant, lightweight design that can fit a DSLR and four lenses!
But, if you want a backpack with good straps, then this would not be the best camera bag for hiking and backpacking.
As for hiking, this hiking camera bag is only able to carry the majority of photography equipment and nothing else. Yet, its ease of use provides strong durability due to its tough exterior.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Tamrac Anvil 23 Pro Camera Backpack Specs
- Price: $236.65
- External size: 12 x 18.5 x 10 in
- Weight: 5.15lb
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-4 lenses, flash, mirrorless cameras, 15” laptops and tablets,phone
- Color: Black
12. Endurax Extra Large Camera DSLR/SLR Backpack
Endurax's Extra Large backpack has a rep for being a photographer-friendly bag.
This hiking camera backpack has great compatibility with all cameras and different pocket compartments. It comes with a sternum strap and ventilated back padding, which makes it comfy while going on a hike.
As ironic as this may sound, this hiking backpack with camera compartments happens to have small ones. So before purchasing, it would be best to think about what kinds of equipment you’d consider carrying as you plan your hike.
Other accessories include: a shoulder and waist camera strap and a rain cover. Despite the weight of it all, this hiking bag is the best backpack for hiking and backpacking.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Endurax Extra Large Camera DSLR/SLR Backpack Specs
- Price: $119.99
- External size: 13 x 7.9 x 22.8 in
- Weight: 6.9 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 2-10 lenses, 2-3 flashes 15.6-18” laptops and tablets
- Color: Black
13. Shimoda Explore 40 Backpack
Shimoda's 40 Backpack comes with lots of accessories points!
Not only does it come in 40L, but also comes in two more sizes such as 30L and 60L. As one of the best camera backpacks for hiking, there’s nothing wrong with having more varieties with space and storage.
By many accessories points we mean pockets. Loads And loads of them! We're talking about pockets built into the straps and compartments that are multifunctional.
One issue to keep in mind, however, is its lack of water resistance since it could possibly absorb the sweat off your back while hiking.
This is the best backpack for cameras and hiking because this hiking camera bag offers rear and side access as well as height adjustable harnesses!
As for style, Shimoda keeps it sleek and simple with its water resistant material. Hence, making it a not too shabby bag for hiking and backpacking.
Style: ★★★★★
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Shimoda Explore 40 Specs
- Price: $279.95
- External size: 10 x 14 x 4.9 in
- Weight: 2.94 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses, 13” laptop and tablets
- Color: Blue Nights, Sea Pine
14. Daytripper: Ruggard Thunderhead 35 DSLR & Laptop Backpack
Although it looks bulky and compact on the outside, you're still able to fit your DSLR and two other lenses. This big camera backpack comes with two compartments that can carry a laptop or tablet as well as other stuff.
Another thing to consider about this hiking camera backpack, is its strap features. There are two elastic security belts and a padded waist belt that can help you hold up this small camera bag.
However, one issue about this backpack is its large size for people of different heights. If you happen to be below 5’10, then this backpack would not be the best bag for hiking and backpacking.
Because of its mesh features, this allows the hiking camera backpack to be more "breathable". Other features include a side tripod attachment and a strap for luggage attachments.
Let's say that this backpack from Ruggard has pretty good ease of use, despite its limited space and size.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Daytripper: Ruggard Thunderhead 35 DSLR & Laptop Backpack Specs
- Price: $129.95
- External size: 10 x 14 x 4.9 in
- Weight: 4.5lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses, flash,13” laptop, compact tripod
- Color: Black
15. Mindshift Gear BackLight 26L BackPack
This backpack not only carries 26L worth of equipment, but also includes a back panel feature.
Even though this is a good camera bag for hiking and backpacking, one of its setbacks would be that it is only available in one size and has a tight fit for gripped and pro body cameras.
While having the waist strap attached, the back panel allows versatility. This can give you easy access to equipment without the hassle of putting it down.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Mindshift Gear BackLight 26L BackPack Specs
- Price: $199.99
- External size: 11.42 x 20.28 x 7.87 in
- Weight: 5.3lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-6 lenses, 15” laptop, 10” tablet
- Color: Charcoal, Woodland Green, Grey
Up Next: The Best Mirrorless Camera Bags
It's better to have more variety when it comes to finding bags for your mirrorless camera.
For all you proud mirrorless camera owners out there, no worries. We've got you covered.
Now that we’ve given our list of the best camera backpacks for hiking, check out our article about the best mirrorless camera bags.