11 Best Hard Shell Camera Backpacks
Whether it's traveling abroad or taking a day trip, it’s important, as a photographer, to find the right backpack to fit camera equipment. The best hard shell camera backpacks provide ultimate protection for your equipment due to its water-resistance, extra interior padding, and protection of other equipment.
Find out more what makes these hard shell camera backpacks the best backpacks to date, and how you can invest in them.
But first...
Why hard shell camera backpacks?
Investing in a hard plastic shell camera backpack for your DSLR is extremely important, especially if you're traveling often and durability is a key factory for you.
You want to find a hard shell camera backpack that will store all your camera equipment along with protecting it on your way to a shoot.
The perfect hard shell camera backpack should be equal to your own body weight. This doesn't only reduce the weight while carrying the backpack around, but provides easy usage throughout your shoot.
Other things to look out for with hard shell camera backpacks are its accessories. You want to find hip belts, sternum straps and padded shoulder straps, but we’ll get to that shortly..
Here are the main things to consider when looking for a hard shell camera backpack:
Durability
This is one of the main reasons to even consider getting a hard case camera backpack. You might be looking for the ultimate for of protection for your camera equipment when you're traveling to and from a photoshoot.
Storage
Store should be a priority when it comes to packing for a photoshoot. When buying a hard shell camera backpack you want to invest in a backpack that carries equipment pretty well. For photographers, it's great to find the best bang for your buck with storage and comfort. Nonetheless, the hard shell camera backpack should have all these qualities.
Comfort
Hip belts, sternum straps and padded shoulder straps are the essentials in a hard shell camera backpack. The best materials for a hard shell camera backpack are nylon or polyester so keep an eye out for those.
Now, let’s go ahead and jump into this article!
11 Best Hard Shell Camera Backpacks
- Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II Backpack
- TARION XH Hard-Shell Camera Backpack
- Endurax ShellX P01 Extra Large Camera Backpack
- Evecase Shell DSLR Camera Backpack Travel Daypack
- HPRC 3500E Backpack Empty Hard Case
- Yeti Panga Backpack 28
- Bella by Design LLC Hard Shell Backpack
- Balang Multi-Function Anti-Theft Backpack
- Ozuko Hard Shell Backpack
- The Brotherhood Expandable Travel Backpack
- Tactical Gear Hazard 4 Pillbox Hardshell Daypack
1. Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II Backpack
The outer part of this hard shell camera backpack from Lowepro is pretty lightweight. It also comes with a convertible waist belt that can also serve as a utility belt. This Lowepro camera backpack has enough room to fit two DSLRs and customizable dividers. Rearranging the dividers can come in handy because it can allow you to pack your equipment any way you want.
The one thing to look out for before purchasing this affordable camera backpack is to consciously think about what to pack. Because of this, you want to avoid packing so much stuff to the point where you're using the laptop sleeve for more space.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆ ☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II Backpack Specs
- Price: $149.95
- External size: 11.8 x 7 x 18.5 in
- Weight: 4.85 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-3 lenses, 13” laptop, tripods
- Color: Black
2. TARION XH Hard-Shell Camera Backpack
This is the best affordable camera backpack there is on this list. If you're trying to find a bag that's under $150.00, then you've found the right bag for you.
The TARION XH Camera Backpack is a hardshell camera backpack made with waterproof and shockproof material. It can fit two DSLR cameras as well as eight camera lenses.
For a backpack only worth $79.99, this is a pretty good deal. The one plus about this hard shell camera backpack is that it's great with back support. It has adjustable chest and waist buckles as well as S-shaped padded shoulder straps.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
TARION XH Hard-Shell Camera Backpack Specs
- Price: $79.98
- External size: 10.8 x 7 x 18.5 in
- Weight: 3.5 lbs
- What Fits: 2 DSLRs, 1-8 lenses, 15” laptop, tripod
- Color: Gold, Silver
3. Endurax ShellX P01 Extra Large Camera Backpack
We’ll start off by mentioning that this is one of the best bags that costs under $150.00. The Endurax Extra Large hard shell camera backpack serves its purpose by carrying up to two DSLRs, six to eight lenses and a drone. Its rugged hardshell exterior provides extra large protective padding while moving around. This hardshell camera backpack can last you for a long time.
This backpack also includes customizable and detachable dividers and PVA front armored panels located on both of the upper and lower compartments of the backpack to protect other valuable equipment.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Endurax ShellX P01 Extra Large Camera Backpack Specs
- Price: $114.99
- External size: 21 x 12.8 x 9.3 in
- Weight: 6 lbs
- What Fits: 2 DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, 1-8 lenses, 2-3 flashes, 17’ laptop
- Color: Black
4. Evecase Shell DSLR Camera Backpack
Here are a couple of reasons why photographers want an Evecase Hardshell camera backpack.
The Evecase Hardshell camera backpack is water resistant and can carry DSLRs and SLR cameras. It's lightweight and can carry 15" laptops and 10" tablets.
Evecase makes one of the best hardshell camera backpacks to use because of its great storage and strong durability.
Once you buy an Evecase hardshell camera backpack for your DSLR and SLR, you will receive premium protection. It's the backpack known for its ease and comfort.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Evecase Shell DSLR Camera Backpack Specs
- Price: $79.98
- External size: 11 x 8.7 x 19.7 in
- Weight: 4 lbs
- What Fits: DSLRs, SLR, 1-3 lenses,15.6’ laptop, 10’ tablet
- Color: Black
5. HPRC 3500E Backpack Empty Hard Case
This camera backpack may not be an Evecase hard shell camera bag, but it’s still functionable backpack for extreme terrains.
This camera backpack may not be an Evecase hard shell camera bag, but it’s still a functionable backpack. The HPR 3500E has a complete exterior entirely made out of plastic. This would make this the best hard plastic shell backpack out there!
The HPR 3500E is watertight, airtight and crushproof. It's pretty much an indestructible camera backpack to carry around.
As for its reputation HPRC has become a favorite for some "bagaholics" out there. If you're a photographer that packs various lenses and body cases, then this hard plastic shell backpack is a good option. Even without the form inserts, all of your camera equipment can fit perfectly inside.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
HPRC 3500E Backpack Empty Hard Case Specs
- Price: $328.22
- External size: 17 x 14.6 x 7.3 in
- Weight: 6.6 lbs
- What Fits: DSLRs, 1-3 lenses,15” laptop
- Color: Black
6. Yeti Panga Backpack 28
The Yeti Panga Backpack 28 may not be a hard plastic shell backpack, but it's made with Yeti's ThickSkin Shell material. This type of material consists of high density nylon and thick TPU lamination, making it puncture and abrasion resistant.
It also comes with DryHaul Shoulder straps that provide extra carrying comfort. As for extra stability, the Panga Backpack includes removable chest straps and waist belt.
If you're looking for a study and reliable camera bag, then Yeti is a good option. This backpack is a tough backpack that can carry cameras and other equipment around through rough and heavy terrains.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Yeti Panga Back[ack 28 Specs
- Price: $299.99
- External size: 20 x 7 x 12.5 in
- Weight: 3.9 lbs
- What Fits: DSLRs,
- Color: Storm Gray
7. Bella by Design LLC Hard Shell Backpack
This hardshell camera backpack may carry 15.6" laptops, but it can also carry DSLR cameras. There are some great laptop backpacks out there that perform well as camera bags. If you're looking for an alternative, consider this backpack from Bella from Design.
The brand is not only made out of impeccable material, but caters to gender neutral audiences. What more can you ask for with a hardshell backpack?
On top of that, this bag only costs $172.50.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
15.6’ Hardshell Laptop Backpack Specs
- Price: $172.50
- External size: 18.10 x 11.6 x 8.80 in
- Weight: 2.62 lbs
- What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses,15’ -17’’ laptop,10” tablet
- Color: Black, Red
8. Balang Multi-Function Anti-Theft Backpack
The Multi-function Anti Theft Backpack from Malaga has a smooth and sleek style. The fabric, made with durable Oxford fabric, also has two "s" curved shoulder pads.
The Malaga bag is lightweight to use, and can carry up to 20-35L. On top of that, it's a durable backpack that can prevent all your equipment from dust, rain and dirt.
The best qualities of this backpack also includes breathable material. Aside from its "s" curved shoulder pads, the adjustable backpack straps of this Malaga bag have breathable mesh and sponge padding. This type of material will relieve any stress from your shoulders.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Balang Multi-Function Anti-Theft Backpack Specs
- Price: $163.32
- External size: 12.5 x 7 x 18.5 in
- Weight: lbs
- What Fits: DSLRs, SLR, 1-2 lenses,15’ laptop
- Color: Black
9. Ozuko Hard Shell Backpack
You can already tell that this backpack was made for style. However, being a hardshell backpack, it also has its perks of taking good care of your DSLR.
This Ozuko lightweight backpack has the carrying capacity of 20-35L and can fit a 15" laptop. The high quality material of this backpack prevents scratches, water damage and theft. So it's security guaranteed.
We'll say that for another backpack that's considered a laptop bag, is great backpack to use for outdoor shoots or any kind of travel.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Ozuko Hard Shell Backpack Specs
- Price: $94.52
- External size: 11 x 8.7 x 19.7 in
- Weight: lbs
- What Fits: DSLRs, SLR, 1-2 lenses,15’ laptop
- Color: Black, Blue, Army Green
10. The Brotherhood Expandable Travel Backpack
The Expandable Travel Backpack from the Brotherhood Shop can carry an immense capacity. It can go from carrying 26L to 38L depending on what you pack.
As for cameras, this backpack can carry at least two lenses and a DSLR.
When traveling around for photoshoots, this bag is another backpack to consider if you're trying to find a bag that's budget friendly.
Because of its convertible carry options and adaptable capacity, this backpack can cater to your specific needs.
There is multi layered space, which allows different compartments for different items such as 15"-17" laptops and 11" iPads.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Brotherhood Expandable Travel Backpack Specs
- Price: $88.99
- External size: 11.8 x 7.1 x 17.7 in
- Weight: lbs
- What Fits: DSLR,1-2 lenses,17’’ laptop, 11” tablet
- Color: Black
11. Tactical Gear Hazard 4 Pillbox Hardshell Daypack
The Hazard 4 Pillbox Hardshell Backpack has a resemblance of a literal shell or turtle shell. But, that's what makes it one of the best hardshell backpacks of 2020, right?
Because of its lightweight, polyester material, this bag can carry at least three lenses and your DSLR. On top of that, it also comes with a removable waist belt and a repositionable sternum strap.
Should you go ahead and buy this bag, keep in mind that this bag is best for hiking and other types of travel.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Tactical Gear Hazard 4 Pillbox Hardshell Daypack Specs
- Price: $215.99
- External size: 19.7 x 12.2 x 7.5 in
- Weight: lbs
- What Fits: DSLRs, 1-3 lenses,17’ laptop, 10’ tablet, clothes
- Color: Black, Gray, Coyote
The Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking
In the end, it’s important to find a hard shell camera backpack that can fit your photography lifestyle. What do you think is the best hard shell camera backpack? Comment below and let us know.
Up next, our latest article talks about the best camera backpacks you should use while hiking!
