17 Best Camera Backpacks for Women
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Finding a camera backpack that’s both practical and stylish is hard to come across. Too often, they’re rugged, plain, and rarely appeal to women.
As a photographer who’s endlessly searched the web for fashionable camera backpacks for women, many of them just aren’t something I’d want to sport.
The simple truth is, they’re often catered towards men.
But ladies, look no further.
We scoured the web for stylish camera bags for ladies to bring you a list of the 17 best camera backpacks for women in 2020.
The Best Camera Backpack for Women
- The Voyager
- Kelly Moore Pilot 2.0 Backpack
- Compagnon Backpack 2.0
- Epiphanie London Camera Backpack
- WANDRD PRVKE Backpack
- Jo Totes Bellbrook Camera and Laptop Backpack
- Kattee Canvas Camera bag
- Douchebags The Ace
- National Geographic Rain Forest Camera Backpack
- Oliday Journeyman Backpack
- House of Flynn Full Leather Rucksack
- Langly Simple Camera Bag
- The F-Stop Gear Women’s Camera Backpack
- ONA The Clifton
- Tarion Waterproof Camera Backpack
- Gatta Christie Noir
- Brevite The Jumper
What to consider when grabbing camera backpacks for women
Camera backpacks for women are hard to find. They either compromise on style, or they compromise on functionality. Take Canon camera bags, for example. They’re practical, but they’re not fashion-conscious, are they?
But then again, some of these camera backpacks for women are too focused on style and in turn, lack in functionality. So how do you find the right balance?
When you’re browsing this list of the best camera backpacks for women, consider your photography needs while weighing the pros and cons so that you can decide if it’s best suited for your kind of lifestyle.
Below is a list of a few key factors to keep in mind when you’re searching for your ideal camera bag.
Size
Camera bags for women can vary in size; depending on your lifestyle, some bags can be too small or too large. You’ll find some bags on this list can’t carry more than a mere DSLR and a lens or two, while others can carry a world of gear and then some. So it’s important to consider your gear and your needs.
Will you need to pack multiple lenses? WIll you need a tripod? A water bottle? Will you need a backpack with multiple compartments? Or will you just need a bag to fit your DSLR or Mirrorless?
Your photography needs and lifestyle are key in determining what kind of size you’ll need in a camera backpack.
Comfort
Comfort plays a huge role in determining the best camera bag for you. Some bags focus on the adventurous photographer--those who are always on-the-go and may need extra support, while other camera backpacks for women tend to focus more on the casual photographer--one who travels light with just a lens or two on hand.
Think about how much gear you’ll need to pack and what kind of adventures you’ll be enduring.
Will you be hiking Mount Fuji with 3-5 lenses? Or will you be strolling through New York City, looking for that in-the-moment shot? Will extra padded shoulder straps be necessary? A waist strap?
Comfort is important; so these are vital questions to ask yourself before purchasing a camera backpack.
Accessibility
When you’re on the move, and that perfect shot approaches, you don’t have all the time in the world to capture it. That’s why easy access to your gear is important.
Side, front, or back compartments often play an important role in making a camera bag backpack easily accessible.
You’ll find that some bags lack multiple compartments in effort to deliver a camera backpack for women to discreetly carry their gear in. But in return, you lack the ability to grab your camera in a matter of seconds.
For a street photographer looking for discretion and quick access, you should consider a bag that can meet in the middle.
Budget
We all know camera backpacks for women are hard to find, but cute affordable camera bags? That’s a whole different ballpark.
When you’re considering which camera bag backpack would best suit you, budget is important. Many of these camera bags can range dramatically in price. You may find a DSLR bag priced at $90, you may find one that reaches a whopping $500.
Pricing often depends on the build of the bag--specifically, the materials that the bag is composed of. Some backpacks may be better equipped for the outdoors if they’re composed of water-resistant and scratch-resistant material.
Alright, let’s jump into the list now!
1. The Voyager
Water resistant, scratch resistant, and spacious, this urban-styled bag is perfect for city-goers and nature-lovers. It comes prepared with an anti-theft opening back along with a magnetic buckle for extra protection. It also comes with a USB port to charge your batteries whenever, whenever. It’s dual access pockets make for easy access so your gear is only a zip away; and its sectionalized compartments allow you to freely organize your bag, your way.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
The Voyager Quick Specs
- Price: $299
- External size: 11 x 16 x 6 in
- Weight: 2.6lbs
- What Fits: DSLR body, up to 3 lenses, a tripod, 15” laptop or tablet, other small essentials
- Color: Grey, Green, Khaki, Black
2. Kelly Moore Pilot 2.0 Backpack
The Pros: The Pilot 2.0 arrives as the next best version of the timeless Kelly Moore Pilot. The 2.0 delivers long-lasting hardware, a water-resistant waxed canvas, full-grain leather and more pockets for additional storage. This two-toned DSLR camera bag is the perfect balance of rustic and modern; perfect for city-goers and country-lovers. With it’s padded straps, this bag ranks as a comfortable, stylish option that will trump any bulky, oversized camera backpack for women out there.
The Cons: It’s a bit expensive and since it’s smaller than the average camera backpack, it may not be the best camera bag for women looking to carry all of their gear and then some.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Kelly Moore Pilot 2.0 Backpack Quick Specs
- Price: $349
- External size: 16 x 12.5 x 7.5 in
- Weight: 5.6 lbs
- What Fits: Pro camera body/standard body + grip, a few 13” lenses, standard tripod, water bottle, tablet or laptop up to 15”
- Color: Black with brown accents
3. Compagnon The Backpack 2.0
The Pros: The Natural German bull leather and modern Scotland Hybrid-Canvas blend make for a beautiful, two-toned camera backpack for women and men. This Compagnon bag arrives as a much anticipated upgrade from its predecessor.
Its water and stain resistant, sturdy and spacious. The shoulder straps are wide and padded for maximum comfort while you’re on-the-go. The expandable roll top offers additional space, while the fastening straps and zipper pockets on both sides of the bag are great for holding tripods.
Organized and built to safely store 2 liters of water, snacks, a jacket, a pair of sneakers, or even a bike helmet along with your gear--The Compagnon backpack 2.0 is a perfect fit for adventurous photographers always on-the-go.
The Cons: It’s a fairly expensive DSLR bag. This probably isn’t the best camera backpack for women who are street photographers looking for a portable, lightweight go-to bag.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Compagnon Backpack 2.0 Quick Specs
- Price: $596
- External size: 19.69 x 12.99 x 7.87 in
- Weight: 4.96 lbs
- What Fits: 2-4 bodies, up to 6 lenses, a flash, 15” laptop, tripod, DJI Mavic Pro drone, water bottles, snacks, a jacket or pair of sneakers, a bike helmet, other small essentials
- Color: Black with brown accents
4. Epiphanie London Camera Backpack
The Pros: This scarlet red camera backpack is beautiful inside and out; sporting a soft, full grain leather on the exterior and a colorful, floral patterned lining on the interior. This is the best camera backpack option for women who value a sophisticated style. A removable camera basket sits at the bottom so you can layer extra essentials, too. Along with multiple interior and exterior pockets, this bag also comes with front and back slip pockets--secured with snaps--to fit your tablet or computer. This spacious beauty will allot you enough room to carry it all in style.
The Cons: While it’s chic, this DSLR bag may be an acquired taste for some women. This won’t be the best camera bag for women seeking a more natural look.
Style: ★★★★★
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Epiphanie London Camera Backpack Quick Specs
- Price: $347
- External size: 13.5 x 6 x 15.5 in
- Weight: 2 lbs
- What Fits: Camera body with lens attached, 3-4 small/medium lenses, 15” laptop or tablet, other smaller essentials
- Color: Red
5. WANDRD PRVKE Backpack
The Pros: Made of waterproof tarpaulin, YKK weather-proof zippers, and 1680D ballistic nylon, this sleek bag can handle it all. The PRVKE backpack comes equipped with a large front pocket, a bottom pocket for your rain fly, a bottom side pocket for quick access to your gear and expandable side pockets to hold your water bottle or tripod. The roll-top acts as an easy point of access or as an option for more storage. Perfect for the traveling photographer, this camera backpack is for women who value functionality, accessibility and organization.
The Cons: This camera bag is designed for the outdoors, focusing more on durability and less on style, so this may not be the best camera backpack for women looking for a stylish, casual, everyday bag.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★★
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
WANDRD PRVKE Backpack Quick Specs
- Price: $184
- External size: 17 x 11 x 6.5 in
- Weight: 3.4 lbs
- What Fits: a camera body, up to 3 lenses, a flash, 15” laptop or tablet, drone, tripod, water bottle, small essentials
- Color: Aegean Blue
6. Jo Totes Bellbrook Camera and Laptop Backpack
The Pros: One of the more affordable and stylish camera bags on this list, this option is great for those looking for a classic, but simple look. The Bellbrook is made of water-resistant, waxed canvas and high-end leather. On the exterior, there’s a large pocket for extra essentials and two side pockets that allow you to easily access your camera. The interior offers a slip for your laptop and a padded, adjustable divider to organize your gear, your way. The satin brass lock closure nicely offsets this simple, black bag.
The Cons: This is a pretty plain camera bag backpack, so women looking for more visually pleasing bags or extra exterior pockets and slips won’t find it in this one.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Jo Totes BellBrook Camera and Laptop Backpack Quick Specs
- Price: $199
- External size: 15.75 x 6.25 x 12 in
- Weight: 4 lbs
- What Fits: Camera body, 1-2 lenses, 15” laptop, a notebook, other small essentials
- Color: Black
7. Kattee Canvas Camera Bag
The Pros: This DSLR camera bag is perfect for women who are looking for a casual, everyday backpack. The Kattee Canvas bag is crafted of PU leather and canvas, and includes two adjustable belt straps to hold a tripod. For the unexpected rainy days, a waterproof rain cover is embedded in the back interlayer of the bag. For everyday comfort, the shoulder straps are air cushioned and the back is ventilated. A removable, padded camera case sits at the bottom half of this bag, made of cotton lining and closed cell padding to ensure your gear is protected. This is a great option for women seeking an affordable camera bag that’s both casual and convenient enough for everyday use.
The Cons: It looks like a standard school backpack; there’s nothing too special about its design. This bag won’t hold much more than a camera and a few lenses.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★☆☆☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Kattee Canvas Camera Bag Quick Specs
- Price: $50
- External size: 12.6 x 5.9 x 17.7 in
- Weight: 2.4 lb
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses, 15” laptop, other small essentials
- Color: Black
8. Douchebags The Ace
The Pros: Cute, affordable camera bags for women are hard to come by, but this urban chic bag is here to end that notion. The Ace is cleverly designed with 9 separate compartments to store your gear and essentials. The bag includes a wire lock, a safety zipper pocket in the back so your valuables are closest to your person. With it’s sleek look and it’s focus on safety, this camera backpack is perfect for city-goers and travelers.
The Cons: While it has many compartments, it’s not exactly designed to hold camera gear. It can fit a small-medium camera insert unit, but there isn’t one included with the bag, which may be off putting for some..
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★☆☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Douchebags The Ace Quick Specs
- Price: $130
- External size: 9.8 x 12.9 x 19.6 in
- Weight: 3.3 lbs
- What Fits: 1-2 cameras, 2-3 lenses, 15” laptop or tablet, other essentials
- Color: Black
9. National Geographic Rain Forest Camera Bag
The Pros: The moss green offset by the taupe really sets the tone for this rainforest inspired bag. Nat Geo’s rainforest camera bag is just the right size to be used as a carry-on for when you’re travelling; it’s flexi dividers can fold or pull out to protect your gear. The bag also comes with external attachments for your tripod and a compartment designed specifically for your laptop or tablet. This is an ideal DSLR camera bag for women who appreciate a natural look and a functional bag.
The Cons: It’s not water-proof, so it won’t protect your gear from the elements. You’ll need to purchase a water resistant backpack cover for this bag to be ideal for travel.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★☆☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
National Geographic Rain Forest Camera Bag Quick Specs
- Price: $159
- External size: 12.99 x 7 x 18.9 in
- Weight: 2.87 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR or Mirrorless camera, up to 4 lenses, a flash, 15” laptop, a water bottle, other small essentials
- Color: Green and taupe
10. Oliday Journeyman Backpack
The Pros: This cotton canvas, full-grain leather hybrid bag is water-resistant and lined with nylon; making for a beautiful and durable finish. Security is prioritized with its brass magnetic-clasp closures, zipper closure and storm flap. It’s wide, padded shoulder straps, waist strap and padded back make for a comfortable travel.
The Cons: This is another bag that lacks femininity; this is a camera backpack for women who want more of an edgy, urban-look.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★☆☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Oliday Journeyman Backpack Quick Specs
- Price: $142
- External size: 11.5 x 17.5 x 5.7 in
- Weight: ?
- What Fits: DSLR body, up to 6 lenses, tripod, a water bottle, a laptop or tablet, extra smaller essentials
- Color: Gray
11. House of Flynn Full Leather Rucksack
The Pros: With an exterior dressed in distressed genuine leather, this camera backpack is designed for women who are looking for a mix between burly and beautiful. Padded straps are accompanied by a waist strap to take some load off of your shoulders. This chic rucksack is split in two sections; the bottom half revealing a slot for your gear, while the top can be used for any other essentials you may need--including extra gear. Not to mention, this bag is packed with pockets, so you’ll have room for it all.
The Cons: While this bag is a beautiful, durable option, it’s pretty expensive. It’s also a rucksack, so it’s larger than the average camera backpack. This may be overwhelming for women looking for an affordable camera bag that’s a bit on the lighter end.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
House of Flynn Full Leather Rucksack Quick Specs
- Price: $429
- External size: 8.5 x 13 x 21 in. when fully-rolled out
- Weight: ?
- What Fits: DSLR or Mirrorless body, 2-4 lenses, laptop or tablet, extra smaller essentials
- Color: Black
12. Langly Simple Camera Bag
The Pros: They’re not lying when they say this bag is “designed for maximum versatility in a minimalist package.” With its many compartments, this camera bag backpack can hold up to eight lenses; making it the go-to companion for gigs and professional shoots. The removable insert can easily transform this camera bag backpack into an every-use backpack. It's made of waterproof fabric and YKK zippers to protect your gear on all occasions. Not to mention, this is one of the most affordable camera bags for women on this list.
The Cons: With its muted tones and simplistic design, this isn’t the most fashion-forward bag on the market. It doesn’t come with as many pockets as many other camera backpacks do, so you won’t be able to fit all of your desired gear and extra essentials.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★☆☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Langly Simple Camera Bag Quick Specs
- Price: $99
- External size: 18 x 14.5 x 8 in
- Weight: ?
- What Fits: camera body, up to 8 lenses, 15” laptop, other essentials
- Color: Coyote
13. The F-Stop Kashmir UL Women’s Camera Backpack
The Pros: This DSLR camera bag is perfect for women who are in the market for a durable, lightweight option that will reliably transport all of their gear and then some. If you’re travelling with a heavy load of equipment, the abrasion resistant nylon shell and hypalon base will protect your gear on all of your adventures. Its internal aluminum frame and lightweight EVA-padded hip belt and shoulder straps will provide you all-day support as you lug your gear around. The bag is also equipped with metal D-ring attachment points, daisy chain loops, and mesh side pockets to carry your water bottle. A great option for the adventurous photographer.
The Cons: This bag is more focused on function and practicality than style; visually, this bag doesn’t compete against other stylish camera backpacks on the market for women.
Style: ★★☆☆☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★★
Value: ★★☆☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
The F-Stop Kashmir UL Women’s Camera Backpack Quick Specs
- Price: $189
- External size: 11 x 12.5 x 20.5 in
- Weight: 2.5 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR or Mirrorless, 7-8 lenses, 13” laptop or hydration bladder, a water bottle, other essentials
- Color: Black
14. ONA The Clifton
The Pros: Handmade from full-grain leather, this DSLR camera bag is a beautiful, rustic cognac-colored dream. The Clifton offers a space for your laptop or tablet, two removable camera inserts to organize your gear the way you desire. This simply beautiful bag sports a medium-sized front pocket to squeeze in your everyday essentials, a padded air mesh back panel and padded shoulder straps for extra comfort. This is one of the best camera bags for women seeking a high-end bag.
The Cons: This bag is pretty expensive, so it will only cater to a specific audience. If high-end isn’t what you’re concerned with, this won’t be the bag for you.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★☆☆
ONA The Clifton Quick Specs
- Price: $499
- External size: 17.5 x 11.5 x 5 in
- Weight: 3.8 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR or Mirrorless camera, 4-6 lenses, 13” laptop, other small essentials
- Color: Cognac
15. Tarion Waterproof Camera Backpack
The Pros: Professional with a hint of urban-style, this multi-functional backpack doesn’t compromise on durability. Side compartments and multiple pouches allow you to access your gear in a matter of seconds. The inner lining is dressed in thick EPE protective padding; the bag is dust and scratch proof, and also comes with an additional rain cover for those unexpected rainy days. The dividers included on the interior for your gear are easily removable and air mesh paddings for your back and shoulder straps provide a sense of comfort for when you’re lugging around 2 DSLR’s, 3 lenses, a tripod and a laptop.
The Cons: While it doesn’t compromise on functionality, it does compromise a bit on design. This isn’t the most chic camera backpack for women, nor does it seem the most secure.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★☆☆☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Tarion Waterproof Camera Backpack Quick Specs
- Price: $85
- External size: 17.9 x 11.4 x 6.2 in
- Weight: 3.4 lbs
- What Fits: 1-2 DSLR bodies, 3-5 lenses, 15” laptop or tablet, a sweater, tripod, other small essentials
- Color: Brown and beige
16. Gatta Christie Noir
The Pros: This sleek black, Nappa leather camera backpack is a great option for women who crave a discreet look. Christie Noir is a camera bag that poses as a high-end shoulder bag or backpack. No one will know what gear you’ve got hiding in there. Five interior pockets can hold your small everyday essentials, while the base of the bag holds your most prized DSLR and an additional lens. This camera bag is best suited for women who are looking for a style and discretion.
The Cons: This bag is a beauty, but it’s not much of a camera bag. It’s a stylish camera backpack for women, but it simply won’t do for those who endure unpredictable weather or need to hold more than just one or two lenses.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★☆☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Gatta Christie Noir Quick Specs
- Price: $169
- External size: 8.7 x 10 x 6.3 in
- Weight: 1.4 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR with lens attached, an additional lens, a few small essentials
- Color: Black
17. Brevite The Jumper
The Pros: Compact, lightweight and discrete--this bag almost looks like a school bag. Removable padded dividers can fit a full frame camera with a lens attached and up to 2 additional lenses. The side compartment, located at the bottom, and front access door allow you to access your gear with a quick unzip. The bag also allows you to carry a tripod or a water bottle and the back panel pocket safely holds your phone, passport and other small essentials--keeping your valuables close.
The Cons: It looks like a basic school bag; and for a camera backpack, The Jumper isn’t very spacious, so it won’t hold much of your gear.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★☆☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆☆
Brevite The Jumper Quick Specs
- Price: $119
- External size: 17 x 11 x 5.5 in
- Weight: 1.7 lbs
- What Fits: A camera body, 1-2 lenses, tripod, water bottle, other small essentials
- Color: Boulder Tan
The Best Camera Backpacks for Men and Women
There you have it! Which of these camera backpacks for women are you going to try first? Did we miss any backpacks? Let us know in the comments below.
But wait, there’s more.
Now that you know the best camera backpacks for women — we’ve put together a superpost of the absolute best camera backpacks (for men and women).
Take a look!