Photography is all about capturing moments — but it's very easy to miss a moment if you can't grab your camera in time.
But not to worry, there are many side access camera backpacks available so that you never miss another shot. However, you need to look closely at the size of the side access to make sure your gear can fit perfectly.
That's why we picked nine of the best side access camera backpack options to grab this year for your next camera carry.
But first, you might be wondering...
How do I choose a camera backpack?
There are many components to choosing a camera and lens backpack that fits your needs, such as size, style, and ease of use. One of the most popular that takes care of all three is the side access camera backpack. This type allows photographers to easily and conveniently grab their gear so they don’t miss a shot. Many of them also make a great travel camera backpack with added features. These include weatherproofing, improved build, and better support for more comfort.
Let’s dive into the best side access camera bags!
9 Best Side Access Camera Backpacks
- Sunny 16 Voyager Camera Backpack
- Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2
- WANDRD PRVKE
- LowePro Freeline
- Thule Aspect DSLR Camera Backpack
- F-Stop Dalston Backpack
- Wotancraft Sniper
- Tenba Axis Tactical 32L Camera Backpack
- Miggo Agua Versa 90
1. Voyager 31L Side Access Backpack
Best overall side access backpack
The Voyager side access camera backpack can fit most DSLR cameras (with battery grips) and mirrorless cameras. You can even fit a camera as large as a Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K like the image shows below:
This side access camera bag also features an upper compartment for easy access as well.
The Voyager camera backpack doesn't skimp on storage space either — it can fit 1-2 cameras and atleast 4 lenses with additional accessories.
If you're traveling with tons of expensive gear, this bag is perfect because it doesn't look like an obvious camera bag. The heavy duty camera bag dividers are sturdy and perfect for customization inside the backpack.
To learn how you should pack your camera bag, watch the video below (specifically around 1:10 to see how you can utilize the side access zipper):
If the backpack starts getting heavy, there are removable waist strap to help distribute the weight.
The anti-theft clamshell opening back, USB port for charging devices, and tons of available space makes this the best camera backpack with side access that you can grab.
Tech Specs
- Price: $169-209
- Capacity: 31L
- Dimensions: 17"x11"x6"
- Weight: 3 lbs
- What Fits: 2 cameras, 4-5 lenses, drone
- Padded hip belt: Yes
- Tripod storage: Yes
- Laptop sleeve: Yes (16")
- Tablet sleeve: Yes
- Material: Canvas + 1000D Tarpaulin
- Color: Black, Grey, Green, Khaki
Learn more: Voyager Camera Backpack
2. Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2
Pros: Those who loved the first version of the popular Peak Design Everyday Backpack have more to love with the latest version. As its name suggests, the V2 makes a versatile everyday camera bag or DSLR camera backpack with side access. Of course, it’s also a contender for the best travel camera backpack out there. Comfort, quick side access, cleaner modern design, increased storage and organization, and excellent build are key for this side access camera backpack. For its style, it’s often cited as the best side access camera backpack for urban roamers. Many photographers who explore cities with compact gear also find it the best travel photo backpack.
Cons: The sleek and minimalist silhouette that made Peak Design popular may seem too simple for some. The price tag may also be an issue for those looking for budget-friendly options. It's also a bit too big for photographers who are looking for a smaller camera bag for quick photo walks with the best point and shoot compact cameras.
Style: ★★★★★
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 Quick Specs
- Price: $289.95 (30L)
- External size: 24.5” x 14.2” x 7.8” (30L)
- Weight: 2.11 kg (30L)
- What Fits: 2 full-sized cameras or a small DSLR without grip, 4- 5 lenses, 15” laptop or iPad, accessories
- Color: Black, Charcoal, Ash, Midnight
3. WANDRD PRVKE
Pros: Durability, comfort, and sleek style are just some of the features that make the WANDRD PRVKE a top choice for a side access camera backpack. This is likely for you if you shoot outdoors a lot. Same goes if you’re looking for the best travel camera backpack for your needs. You’ll definitely appreciate the waterproof tarpaulin and Robic Ballistic Nylon 1680D build, weather-resistant zippers, padded shoulder support, and surprisingly light weight for a 31L side opening backpack. It’s also easy to configure this stylish camera backpack to your needs, whether you’re a mirrorless photographer, or a pro photographer looking for a DSLR camera backpack with side access.
Cons: The durability of the WANDRD Prvke, especially the 31L variant, comes with a bit of weight. The price is also very expensive for what you're getting! The unique roll-top style may also be strange for those who aren’t fans of non-conventional backpack designs.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
WANDRD Prvke Quick Specs
- Price: $204 (31 L)
- External size: 19" X 12.5" X 7.5" (31 L)
- Weight: 1.5 kg (31 L)
- What Fits: 1-2 camera bodies, 3-5 lenses, a laptop and/or a tablet, a drone, a tripod, accessories (depending on your configuration)
- Color: Black, Wasatch Green, Aegean Blue
4. LowePro FreeLine BP 350 AW
Pros: The dual-side LowePro Freeline BP 350 AW boasts of a durable and weather-proof build. Its high-grade Nylon 66 construction with Carbonate coating resists water and abrasions. This backpack also features a unique “QuickShelf” divider system that can be folded flat and removed easily. So, you can quickly convert this side opening camera backpack into a regular backpack as well! If you’re looking for the best travel camera backpack or the best travel photo backpack, this is another worth your consideration.
Cons: While its simplicity passes for a nice, urban-style backpack, there are more eye-catching options out there.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★★
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
LowePro Freeline Quick Specs
- Price: $260
- External size: 11.54” x 8.19” x 19.17”
- Weight: 1.87 kg
- What Fits: A full frame DSLR with lens or grip, a mirrorless body with grip, compact
- Color: Black, Heather Gray
5. Thule Aspect DSLR Camera Backpack
Pros: Need a roomy yet light carrier for a DSLR, a bunch of lenses, a laptop, and even a small drone? The sleek Thule Aspect is a DSLR camera backpack with side access that can fit all those without compromising comfort and support. The camera compartment dividers are also removable for use as a simple day bag. It’s also an affordable option if you’re looking for a straightforward side opening camera backpack that does the job.
Cons: It’s not weatherproof and doesn’t come with a rain cover, so it may not be the best travel camera backpack. Some photographers have also found that the dividers don’t work so well for smaller cameras.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Thule Aspect DSLR Camera Backpack Quick Specs
- Price: $130
- External size: 11.8” x 8.7” x 20.5”
- Weight: 1.45 kg
- What Fits: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with attached lens, 2 additional lenses, a speedlight, a few accessories
- Color: Black
6. F-Stop Dalston
Pros: The F-Stop Dalston is both surprisingly roomy and light as a feather. This simple yet fashionable side access camera backpack is made from sturdy materials like 420D Ripstop Nylon with TP laminate and weather-sealed zippers. It also has a removable padded main compartment, yet weighs only 0.8 kg.
Cons: It’s not a small camera backpack with side access so you can’t cram it with gear. Still, it can be a decent contender for the best travel camera backpack, if only for day trips and city adventures.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
F-Stop Dalston Quick Specs
- Price: $149
- External size: 18.9” x 11.4” x 6.3”
- Weight: 0.8 kg
- What Fits: 1-2 mirrorless cameras or DSLR camera bodies without grip, 1-2 lenses, a 15” laptop or tablet, and small accessories
- Color: Aloe (tan/khaki), Nasturtium (bright orange)
7. Wotancraft Sniper
Pros: The uniquely-designed, Wotancraft Sniper is made of highly durable Cordura canvas and fitted with heavy-duty straps, yet it’s light enough for all-day carry. This premium side access camera backpack is a great option especially for full frame mirrorless camera users. The slightly padded lumbar support on the rear panel is a plus for times when your load is a little heavy. This may be the best travel camera backpack and best side access camera backpack if you’re big on style.
Cons: As with anything premium and handcrafted, this small camera backpack with side access comes with a hefty price tag. It’s going to hurt your wallet, for sure!
Style: ★★★★★
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Wotancraft Sniper Quick Specs
- Price: $429
- External size: 18.11” x 8.27” x 7.28”
- Weight: 1.6 kg
- What Fits: A full-frame mirrorless camera body, 4 lenses, and a flash; Or, two full-frame mirrorless camera bodies, 3 lenses, and a flash
- Color: Vintage Grey Canvas, Olive Green
8. Tenba Axis Tactical 32L Camera Backpack
Pros: This spacious DSLR camera backpack with side access can fit a lot of gear accessible through three access points (side, top, and back). Its thick, water-repellent exterior makes sure all those precious gear are protected from the elements. We definitely have another contender for the best travel camera backpack here! This 32L side opening camera backpack accommodates up to two mirrorless cameras or DSLR bodies and 6-8 lenses (or 7-9 lenses, depending on your configuration). If you’re constantly on the go with a slew of shooting equipment, this can be a great option, if not the best side access camera backpack for you.
Cons: While the sleek and minimalist look isn’t so bad, it isn’t for the style-conscious either. Also, if you need to completely unzip the main compartment, you have to move away the straps and waistband first. Some have also found that the chest straps don’t fit all body types.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★★
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Tenba Axis Tactical 32L Camera Backpack Quick Specs
- Price: $255.95
- External size: 13.75” x 22.25” x 9.75”
- Weight: 2.5 kg
- What Fits: 2 DSLR or mirrorless camera bodies, 6-8 lenses (up to 400mm f2.8), up to 17” laptop
- Color: Black
9. Miggo Agua Versa 90
Pros: As its name suggests, the Miggo Agua Versa is another water-resistant option. This is one of the best mirrorless camera bags you can get. This side access camera backpack is made of sturdy materials such as tarpaulin, neoprene, and polyester. You can also configure this side opening camera backpack three ways: a conventional backpack, a backpack with straps criss-crossing over the best, or a single strap cross-body sling bag. This is another great option for a DSLR camera backpack with side access for shooting in the great outdoors. It may even be the best travel camera backpack or best side access camera backpack if you’re after a weather-proof carry.
Cons: It’s a bit heavy because of the solid build. The water-resistant material also makes handling a little stiff. The diver aesthetic may seem a little unusual or out of place for shooting in the city.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Miggo Agua Versa 90 Quick Specs
- Price: $119
- External size: 17.7” x 10.2” x 7”
- Weight: 2 kg
- What Fits: A medium-sized DSLR, up to 3 lenses, accessories, up to 14” laptop
- Color: Black
Up Next: The Best Camera Backpacks For Women
Choosing the best side access camera backpack can be challenging with what’s available. But with these options, it will be easier to switch to the convenience of the best side opening camera backpack.
Did we miss a great DSLR camera backpack with side access? How about a small camera backpack with side access? Or even the best travel camera backpack out there? Let us know in the comments below!
Meanwhile, it’s also worth noting that some of these bags also make great choices for women. We have another master list of the best camera backpacks for women, in case you’re looking for more to consider!
