The 2022 Travel & Hiking Camera Backpack Guide
Choosing the right hiking camera backpack can be tricky. You want something rugged and weatherproof. Spacious enough for all your camera gear and accessories. Comfortable for a daylong hike on the trail, or longer. And easy to access your gear. So which backpack has all these qualities and more? Take a look at the best camera backpacks for hiking.
Best Camera Backpacks For Hikers Overview
Lightest Hiking Camera Backpack
Largest DSLR Hiking Backpack
Best Travel Camera Backpack Under $100
Best Travel Camera Bag Under $50
Best Hardshell DSLR Backpack
Smallest DSLR Camera Bag
Best Drone Backpack
Best Waterproof DSLR Camera Bags
Overall Best Camera Bag For Hiking
What To Look For In A Good Camera Backpack For Travel and Hiking
1. Lightest Hiking Camera Backpack: Lowepro Photo Sport 200 AW II
Weighing in at only 2.64 pounds, the Lowpro Photo Sport is a versatile camera backpack meant for all day hiking. It fits a dslr with an attached lens and an extra lens. There’s room for a 2 liter water reservoir. And plenty of room for snacks, a bike helmet and a compact tripod. The Lowpro Photo Sport is perfectly designed for outdoor photographers on the move.
- The Photo Sport BP 200 AW II fits a Mirrorless or DSLR with attached lens (such as Canon Rebel T5I with 18-135mm f/3-5.6, OR Sony A7II with 24-70mm attached), flash, adapter or extra lens, 2-liter hydration reservoir (not included), and extra gear such as: bike helmet, jacket, snacks, sunglasses, compact tripod, etc
- Keep your camera gear secure and in place while you hike, bike, climb, snowboard or run. Our new UltraCinch design features a custom pull-tab to cinch and tighten photo gear space in one swift action for bounce-free protection
- Feel good as you move with your pack; the ActivZone harness is built to provide targeted comfort for active photographers. Get extra comfort and a custom fit with padded waistbelt and adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap
- Protect your gear from the elements. A built-in All Weather AW Cover safeguards photo and personal gear from rain, snow, dust and sand
- Multiple attachment points allow you to secure extra gear to the pack, such as a tripod or trekking poles,The following camera models will NOT fit: Canon EOS 1D/1Ds/1Dx Mark II, Nikon D4/D4s/D5 and Sony Alpha A850/A900.
2. Largest DSLR Hiking Backpack: TARION Pro
This German engineered travel camera backpack is built with hikers in mind. It is one of the only large dslr backpacks that can actually double as a light camping backpack. With a large dual compartment design, you have the option to store 2 cameras and up to 9 lenses. Or you can carry 1 camera and several lenses in one compartment and camping gear in the other. Plus, with all the external straps, you can easily carry a sleeping bag or tent for an overnight photo camping adventure.
- 【Extra Large with Dual Compartment】: Top compartment, can hold 1 camera + 5 lens easily. Lower Compartment Max hold 1 camera + 4 lenses or 6 prime lenses. Accessory shoulder bag can hold 1 camera + 2 lenses.
- 【Ergonomic Shoulder & Waist Strap design】: Soft Padded Shoulder and waist strap with ventilated back padding help reduce load weight and maximize comfort. Adjust height of the straps depending on your preference to suit your comfort.
- 【Considerate Design】: Max 15.6" Laptop Compartment with side zipper can be side accessed. Tripod buckle straps on both sides. Accessories pouches for small devices. Rain Cover attached.
- 【Safety & Security】: Shock-proof EPE dividers in compartment protect your camera & lens safety and security. A PVA shell front panel securely holds digital equipment and sensitive gears.
- 【Sturdy & Durable】: Made of water repellency and high strength tear-resistance nylon,TARION Pro PB-01 Camera Bag is sturdy and durable.
3. Best Travel Camera Backpack Under $100: BAGSMART Camera Backpack
The BAGSMART Camera Backpack is as stylish as it is functional. Designed with travelers in mind, this camera backpack sports a water resistant canvas exterior. It’s divided into an upper and lower compartment. The upper space is for clothing and other travel items. The lower space contains a flexible organizing system that holds 1 dslr camera with attached lens, plus 3-4 extra lenses. This travel camera backpack comes with 3 quick access entry points, a rain cover and even room for a 15 inch iPad.
- Large Camera Backpack- Dimensions: 11.8"L x 7.5"W x 15.7"H. The lower padded camera zone is designed for 1 DSLR camera with 70-200mm lens attached, 3-5 standard lenses and accessories. The top storage space is fully reserved for your personal belongings. The thick-padded laptop compartment fits up to 15" laptop
- Customizable Space- The customizable compartments with 5 padded dividers maximize everything you’ll need for a photography travel and keeps your gear securely in place while you’re out and about. After removing dividers, the upper and lower compartments can be connected through a zipper divider and become a laptop backpack
- Quick Access- Grabbing camera is quick and easy with the side access design, so you’ll be ready to shoot at a moment’s notice. Front wraparound zipper design makes it easier to pack gear in no time
- Keep Camera Safe- The photography backpack is made of durable and waterproof canvas and comes with a rain cover for weather condition. Lockable zippers and a high-quality metal hook can achieve the purpose of anti-theft
- User Friendly- Thick back padding, generous shoulder straps provide comfort. Adjustable chest strap helps to keep the bag close to body. Inside pockets for small accessories and personal things. Double-sided external stretch pockets on both sides hold a water bottle or umbrella. An ideal christmas gifts for men women
4. Best Travel Camera Bag Under $50: CADeN Camera Backpack
The CADeN camera backpack is on the smaller end of travel camera bags, but it has a surprising amount of room inside. It can easily carry 1 dslr camera with an attached lens, plus 5 more lenses. Or you could configure the adjustable compartments for a DJI drone or other camera accessories. Plus, the CADeN backpack comes with an internal iPad pouch. Finally, it’s made of waterproof nylon and has two mesh pouches on either side. Perfect for carrying a water bottle and a tripod on your next hike.
- 【Product Overview】CADeN D6 camera backpack dimensions: 11*5.9*15inches/28*14.9*38cm, Weight 1.74lb/0.79kg. This professional photography camera backpack fits men/women photographers, is lightweight and easy to carry.
- 【Large Capacity】CADeN D6 camera bag fits 1 camera bodies+4 lens+flash+ipad+tripod place+other accessories. Or for DJI drone storage.
- 【Multi-Functions】①Scratch and waterproof material protects your camera from damage; ②Hidden zipper design of the front pocket, best for your daily accessories storage; ③High-elasticity mesh bag on one side for your bottle/umbrella storage, the other side of the camera bag is a tripod or trekking pole place; ④Convenient handle multi carrying way; ⑤Lengthened shoulder belts are made of high elasticity, decompression memory foam, very good design for Americans.
- 【Multi-Functions】⑥CADeN alloy zipper won't rusty within 3 years, and won't break within 5 years; ⑦One side for iPad storage with sticker fixed inside the camera bag; ⑧Inner bag paddings are made of 7-layer PE foam and PP board, protect your camera from shocking, very durable; ⑨Shoulder belts and handle that connected with camera rusksack have taken bar-tack reinforcement technology which load-bearing up to 50kg(110.2lb). Best care for your cameras, lens, flashes, tripod, and other accessories.
- 【Perfect Services】1 year warranty- Any problems within 1 year, we will offer a new one for you; 30 years factory with more than 1000 employees focused on camera bag manufacture, trustworthy for you.
5. Best Hardshell DSLR Backpack: Endurax
This hiking dslr backpack is built for the ultimate protection of your camera gear. It sports a PVA armored front panel for rugged outdoor use. It can fit 1 camera body with attached lens and up to 4 extra lenses. It has a compartment for a 14 inch laptop or 10 inch tablet. Plus, the waterproof design, padded shoulder straps and ventilated back padding makes it perfect for long hikes in all kinds of weather
- Compact but Large Capacity - Endurax camera bag backpack equipped with removable padded inserts which makes it so easy to customize your photography equipment based off your needs.You can organise different cameras, flashes, lens and drones.Laptop compartment for a 14 Inch laptop or tablet. Mesh pockets for accessories sd card/cables/earphones.
- Shockproof Protection & sturdy- With waterproof PU leather hard shell protection in front. The hardshell and foam padded layer can provide better buffer and protection to your internal stuff against shock and drops,it help to protect your valuable camera & lens safety and security. High density nylon which boasts anti-tear and water resistant properties perfect for wild environment.
- Outdoor Friendly - Tripod holder punch can secure the tripod, you can quick access the SD card or battery from the zipper pocket outside the pouch. another side pocket allow to carry an umbrella or water bottle when you on the go.Clip strap on the shoulder strap can hang sunglasses, eyeglasses, towels and other small accessories.
- Travel Comfortably - Dimensions:12 x 5x 17.5 inches, it's available put the compact camera bag into the overhead on the airplane. 2.2lbs lightweight makes you feel manageable even after a couple of hours photography carring camera equipment. luggage strap can securely attach the hard camera case freeing your hand. It's a great christmas gifts for photographer, men women.
- Convenient Camera Bag- The padded shoulder straps, padded back panel and adjustable chest strap to add comfort when carrying. If you are not satisfied with our bag or have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
6. Smallest DSLR Camera Bag: Osprey Ultralight Camera Case
Not so much a camera backpack, but a very compact hiking camera case. The Osprey Ultralight Camera Case is one of the smallest dslr camera bags used for travel and hiking. It sports extra shoulder straps to wear around your neck or shoulders. It has a zippered and padded main compartment for your camera and other dslr accessories. And this compact camera case can easily be attached to your belt or a larger camera backpack hip belt for easy access while hiking.
- Zippered padded main compartment keeps cameras and other electronics protected
- Allows the camera case to easily attach to pack hip belts and even belts
- Extra straps provides neck and shoulder carry as other transport options
7. Best Drone Backpack: Lowepro DroneGuard Backpack
This drone backpack is specially designed to carry and protect your DJI Mavic Pro. The DroneGuard also has plenty of room for your drone transmitter and 5 extra batteries. Plus, you’ll have room for a 15 inch laptop and a 10 inch tablet. Finally, room for 2 GoPros and a shoulder pocket for easy access to your mobile phone. All of this easily makes the Lowepro DroneGuard the best drone backpack for travel and hiking.
- Flexible dividers securely house DJI Mavic Pro, transmitter, up to 5 extra batteries, 15 laptop and 10 tablet with additional space for Osmo and 2 Go Pros or mirrorless kit plus personal items
- Targeted lightweight protection - Compression-molded Form Shell technology protects gear from impact without added weight or bulk
- Cradle Fit pocket suspends and protects 15 laptop and up to 10 tablet
- Removable organization panel with elastic straps keeps fragile parts and charging cords secure in the case or on the go
- English (Publication Language)
8 & 9. Best Waterproof DSLR Camera Bags: Endurax & YuHan Waterproof Camera Backpacks
These two hiking camera backpacks offer the ultimate weatherproof experience for photographers. Both are waterproof dslr camera bags with room for camera gear and a 15 inch laptop. Plus, both are lightweight, weighing only 3 pounds. The Endurax comes with a removable shoulder bag, perfect for quick shoots and short trips.
10. Overall Best Camera Bag For Hiking: Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW
The Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW Camera Backpack is an incredibly versatile hiking backpack camera bag. I bought mine a couple of years ago. It’s been with me everywhere from the Caribbean to Colorado and everywhere in between. And it’s held up in all kinds of conditions like a champ! This is by far the best camera backpack I’ve ever owned.
- Fits 1-2 Pro DSLRs, one with up to 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached, 8 lenses/speed lights, 15" laptop, tripod and accessories. The ProTactic 450 AW also fits the DJI Mavic Pro drone
- Never miss a critical mission thanks four access points: the molded, turret-loading top, quick-grab from both sides, and full, back entry for set-up and security
- Create limitless set-ups with a robust, Slip Lock compatible strap system. Internal Dimensions: 31.8 x 19.8 x 44 cm (12.52 x 7.80 x 17.32 in) External Dimensions: 34.8 x 27 x 48.8 cm (13.70 x 10.63 x 19.21 in). Weight: 2.6 kg (5.72 lbs)
- Get versatile with five modular accessories - water bottle pouch, accessory case, tripod cup and two cinch straps - all Slip Lock-compatible and included with pack
- ProTactic features ActivZone System technology to deliver targeted support at shoulder blades, lumbar and waist for comfort on the move. Laptop compartment dimensions-11.2x 1.1 x 14.5 inch
Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW Review
I personally use the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW for almost all of my outdoor photo shoots. It’s travelled with me on many hiking trips all over the U.S. and Europe. Here’s why I think it’s the best camera bag for hiking and travel.
1. Tons of space for your DSLR camera gear
With internal dimensions of 12.52 x 7.80 x 17.32 in, this is the best camera backpack for hiking because you can carry everything from a couple of DSLRs and lenses to a full laptop. The MaxFit System gives you padded, adjustable dividers for building a wide variety of compartments for your camera gear.
This kind of flexible organization system is super helpful for landscape and outdoor photographers. You might choose to shoot macro photography one day and long exposure photography the next. Those scenarios call for totally different camera gear setups. So being able to rearrange the compartments in your camera backpack is crucial.
What can this travel camera backpack hold?
- 1 – 2 professional DSLR cameras (One can even have up to a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached!)
- camera lenses
- 15 inch laptop or a tablet
- DJI Mavic Pro
- microphone
- external hard drive
- battery charger and extra batteries
- extra memory cards
- camera cleaning accessories
- mobile phone
- car keys
- tripod
2. Space for a 15 inch Macbook Pro
That’s right, this hiking camera backpack comes with a padded sleeve built in that fits the larger 15 inch Macbook Pro. Of course, you can fit any other similar sized laptop, too. Perfect for when you want to bring your computer along without having to pack it in a separate case.
Now you’ll be able to edit with Lightroom and Photoshop while you’re on the go. And, with all the extra space inside, you’ll easily be able to fit an external hard drive like the Lacie Rugged Thunderbolt 2TB.
3. Easy on-the-go access to your camera gear
There’s 4 ways to access your gear in the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW. Two side pockets. One Molded, Turret-Loading Top. And a full entry from the back by unzipping it.
This last way adds an extra layer of security. Thieves can’t just unzip your camera backpack from behind you when you’re not looking.
The ProTactic 450 also comes with 5 Slip Lock-compatible modular accessories:
- water bottle pouch
- tripod cup
- accessory case
- 2 cinch straps
You can buy more Slip Lock accessories to attach to the back or sides of this camera backpack for extra storage. This is perfect for having quick access to things like ND filters.
4. Comfortable for all-day travel
When you pack as much gear as a camera bag like this will hold, you want it to be comfortable to wear. Especially if you’re busting your butt on the trail all day! Lucky for you, the ProTactic 450 AW is built for comfort.
It’s ActivZone harness keeps you cool with ventilated sections on the straps and back of the backpack. The waist belt gives you support by taking some weight off your shoulders when you’re hiking. And it comes with two zippered pockets built in so you can quickly grab smaller camera accessories like a lens pen or headlamp.
6. Hideaway rain cover
If you’re looking for a waterproof camera backpack, this is as close as you’ll get. While I wouldn’t say this is 100% waterproof, it’s definitely water resistant. Which is super handy when a rain or snow storm pops up. What makes this possible is the built in All Weather AW Cover found on the bottom of the camera backpack.
Just set your pack down. Pull the cover out. And boom! Instant raincoat for your backpack.
7. Competitive Price
With all these benefits comes a fairly reasonable price from a trusted photography backpack brand name like Lowepro. Currently the ProTactic 450 AW retails for less than $200 on Amazon. If you’re looking for a hiking camera backpack that can hold everything from a couple of pro DSLRs to a 15 inch laptop, this is a fantastic value!
What Makes The Best Camera Backpack For Travel And Hiking?
Before we get started, let’s examine what makes the best camera backpack for hikers.
Comfort & Weight
Hikers already know that packing light makes for a more enjoyable experience. But hiking with a camera is hard because camera’s aren’t light. So choosing a hiking camera backpack that is designed for comfort and is lightweight itself is crucial.
Tons of Room for Camera Gear (And Extra Accessories)
If you’re taking the time to travel to beautiful locations, you need to be prepared to take amazing outdoor photos. So find a camera backpack with plenty of room for the right camera accessories to get the job done.
Good Organization
Don’t sacrifice good organization when shopping for a camera backpack. Consider a bag that has lots of flexible organization to pack exactly what you need. And be sure your backpack has easy side access to grab your camera. You don’t want to have to stop and take off your pack every time you want to take a picture.
Padding & Protection
Your DSLR and camera accessories aren’t cheap. So don’t treat them like they are. When choosing the best camera backpack for travel and hiking, make sure your gear is protected with plenty of padding for those rough hikes on the trail.
Weatherproofing
Every outdoor photographer knows that weather can change without warning. So be sure to select a camera backpack for hiking that is either made of waterproof material or has a rain fly that will cover your backpack quickly and completely.
What’s your favorite hiking camera backpack?
There’s a lot of factors that go into choosing the right photography hiking backpack for you. And you may already have a favorite that you’ve used for a while, but you’re on the fence about buying a new one.
If you’ve got a hiking camera backpack you love to use when you’re taking photos outdoors, share it in the comments below. The rest of the Schubert Photography community could benefit from your experience.
Happy shooting!
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API