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15 Best Hiking Camera Backpacks of 2024

On the hunt for the best camera backpack for hiking to snap some panoramic shots of those mountain views? We’ve got you covered.

15 Best Hiking Camera Backpacks of 2024

With a hefty amount of gear on your back, trekking up mountains and down valleys is challenging — especially if the elements are against you.

Even as a seasoned hiker, you’ll want the best camera backpack for hiking to protect your photography equipment. And you’ll want the most accessible backpack so you don’t have to fiddle for your camera when you spot rare wildlife or the pink sun is just. about. to. set.

But choosing the right camera backpacks for hiking isn’t necessarily an easy feat. As cameras continue to advance, so does their affordability. But the camera backpack market has struggled to keep up. Instead, it’s largely saturated with poor-quality bags that are, frankly, putting your equipment at risk.

Fortunately, for you, we’ve done the legwork in scoping out the best hiking camera backpacks that are out there. So you can expend your energy elsewhere — like summiting your next peak before sunset.

These are the best hiking camera backpacks on the market today.

  • Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L: Best Camera Backpack for Hiking Overall

    Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L

    Designed by the iconic adventure photographer Alex Strohl, this pack balances the need for camera storage and organization while still maintaining the integrity of a high-quality hiking backpack.

    The Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L takes the #1 spot for best hiking camera backpack because of its combined versatility, affordability, and comfort.

    This pack features several quick access points, weather-proof materials, tons of straps and pockets, and modular elements for both your travel and camera gear—all while remaining incredibly lightweight.

    The back panel entry to a compact camera unit makes shooting on the go a breeze. You have a lot of freedom with this backpack to customize your organization how you like.

    External pockets allow you to carry a tripod or camping gear like tent poles. Many aspects of this bag are multifunctional, meaning you can tailor it to fit your needs on any given adventure. It is suitable for 1-3 day adventures in the wilderness, perfect for weekend warriors!

    Features like a sternum strap and hip belt, hydration bladder, and a molded, ventilated back panel make this a competitive bag in the hiking and backpacking market. Having dedicated storage for camera gear is the icing on the cake.

    • Technical Specs
    Volume45L
    Dimensions10.5"W x 31.5"H
    Weight3.7lb / 1.7kg
    WarrantyAvailable for purchase
  • Lowepro Pro Trekker 450: Best Budget Hiking Camera Backpack

    Lowepro Pro Trekker 450

    The LowePro Pro Trekker 450 has the capability to carry multiple cameras and lenses as well as hiking essentials. It has all the features of a solid hiking camera backpack without the hefty price tag.

    It has Lowepro’s new ActiveLift System that is designed to distribute more weight from the shoulders to the hips. The ActiveLift System is easily adjustable and includes airflow channels that improve air circulation.

    The backpack has been built to carry heavy loads over rough terrain for long periods of time. It features more straps and pockets for other equipment and supplies.

    The Lowepro Pro Trekker 450 is a professional hiking camera backpack that is both built around functionality and style, while remaining affordable.

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size22.6" x 19.4" x 14.1" 57.3cm x 49.3cm x 35.9cm
    Weight9lbs / 4.1kg
    CapacityCarries 1-2 pro DSLR cameras with 400mm f/2.8 4-6 extra lenses, 2 flash units
    Water resistantRemovable cover
    Laptop storageYes, 15" max
    Carry-on readyNo
  • Lowepro RunAbout Pack-Away Daypack: Best Packable Hiking Camera Backpack

    Lowepro RunAbout Pack

    Lowepro’s RunAbout Daypack is the perfect solution for traveling photographers who need a smaller bag that can pack away when not in use. It has the unique ability to fold up and pack down small. It carries a day’s worth of camera gear and accessories to keep you stocked on all your day adventures.

    It is extremely lightweight at only 0.88 lbs, but can still carry all your camera gear. It is even compatible with the GearUp camera inserts (mentioned next on the list)!

    It has external attachment points for gear like trekking poles or tripods, and two side pockets for gear or water bottles.

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size9.84" x 6.69" x 19.68"
    Weight0.88lbs
    Volume18L
    Laptop storageNo
    Carry-on readyYes
  • Mountainsmith TanuckLITE 40 Camera Pack: Best Lightweight Hiking Camera Backpack

    Mountainsmith Tanuck Lite

    The Mountainsmith TanuckLITE 40 Camera Pack is one of the best camera backpacks for hiking on the market. The Tanuck was designed by photographer Chris Burkard, and the LITE model was created to offer a more lightweight frame for those longer treks.

    It’s the perfect mix of all the features to look out for in a photography bag. In terms of price versus quality, it’s a leader in the market.

    This 40L water-resistant pack is built for the outdoors. It has all the specs of a great hiking backpack mixed with the awesome capability to carry camera equipment. It’s comfortable too, with padded shoulder straps and waist belt.

    It has both side and back mounts for your tripod, a hard floor for protection to help the bag stand up and compression straps to make sure your gear sits in nice and tight.

    The bag has fully waterproof pockets for more delicate electrics and comes with a rain cover for extra protection.

    The Mountainsmith TanuckLITE 40 is a great hiking photography backpack that will not only protect your equipment, but also get you to where you want to go with comfort and style.

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size25.5" x 13.75" x 7.25" (H x W x D)
    Weight3.75lbs
    CapacityUp to 50 lbs / 22.7kgs
    Volume40L
    Water resistantYes
    Carry-on readyNo
  • F-Stop Ajna 40L: Best Weather Resistant Hiking Camera Backpack

    F-Stop Anja

    The 40L F-Stop Ajna is a backpack that looks and feels like a hiking backpack. It has an internal aluminum frame for support, waist belt, and comfortable shoulder straps that are fully adjustable. It’s built to comfortably fit a professional-sized camera with an attached lens.

    Its outer shell is fully water resistant, protecting your precious gear from the harsh elements you may encounter in the wilderness.

    It features plenty of small pockets for extra storage and is even hydration system compatible. Other important storage components include the 13″ laptop compartment, quick-access top pocket, and clips on the shoulder straps for important tools.

    At first glance, the F-Stop Ajna is the cheaper rival to the Atlas Athlete camera backpack (below). However, the most basic version of the bag comes without any inserts, and all camera storage components are sold separately or in packages.

    I love the hiking features of this backpack, but don’t like that it doesn’t include camera insoles or a rain cover. That said, the bag is already weather resistant, and you can always buy a rain cover separately if you want that extra protection.

    • Technical Specs
    Volume40L
    Dimensions23.5" x 13" x 10.5" 59.7cm x 33cm x 26.7cm
    Weight3.75lbs / 1.75kg
    Warranty20 years
  • Shimoda Action X30: Best Adventure Travel Camera Backpack

    Shimoda Action X30

    Shimoda is one of my favorite backpack brands, and as an adventure travel photographer myself, this bag ticks all the boxes. It’s their “ultra-aggressive line of camera bags.” Count me in.

    The Action X series comes in three models: the X30, X50 and X70, clocking in with a capacity of 30L, 50L and 70L, respectively. I haven’t taken my X30 on a multi-day hike as it simply isn’t large enough (I’d need the 50 or 70 for that), but the X30 has served me extremely well on many a backcountry day hike. It has pockets and storage almost everywhere.

    One of my favorite features of the Action X is the proprietary shoulder strap system. All bags come with an adjustable harness system and a “Tech Strap,” which feature a zippered mobile phone pocket and a stretchy water bottle storage up front for easier access to common items. They also have attachment rings and loops for fastening accessories, camera straps, pouches and other gear.

    The Tech Straps also come in a female-specific cut made especially for the female frame, as well as shorter men with a larger shoulder width.

    Furthermore, the Action X has the following features:

    • Adjustable torso height
    • Expandable roll-top
    • 16″ laptop sleeve
    • Tripod and water bottle pockets
    • Multiple access points, including both rear and side camera access
    • Modular camera insert
    • Water-resistant outer shell and waterproof zippers

    At 3.7 lbs, this weight of this bag is pretty average and feels light on my back. It’s stylish, too, so coupled with the Action X’s rugged good looks and exceptional functionality and quality, this bag the top contender in my book. If you’re an adventure photographer, I really don’t think you need to look any further than here.

    • Technical Specs
    Volume30L
    Dimensions11.8W x 19.7H x 6.3D in.
    Weight3.7lb / 1.7kg
    Warranty5 years
  • WANDRD FERNWEH 50L: Best Camera Backpack for Backpacking

    WANDRD FERNWEH Backpacking Bag

    The WANDRD FERNWEH is the brainchild of the Cope brothers who started the WANDRD line on Kickstarter with their wildly popular PRVKE pack. And while that pack serves it purpose, hiking is, unfortunately, not one of them.

    The FERNWEH, however, is a full-featured hiking pack with all the camera functionality of the PRVKE (and more).

    The breathable air mesh back panel is one of the best I’ve ever seen—it’s thick and holds the bag far off the back, providing a ton of airflow and a well ventilated back.

    The bag’s camera compartment features seven different smaller spaces with excellent padding to ensure your camera’s safety. This is particularly significant as it no longer necessitates having to place your camera on the sternum strap.

    As is the case with most hiking packs, the main compartment can take a long time to open. So, in true WANDRD fashioned, they included side access panels that lessens the time it takes to pull your camera out.

    It’s also weather-resistant, fits a full-size laptop, holds a hydration bladder, has stowable carry straps, a rugged hip belt, and so much more. If you’re looking for a full-featured, multi-day backpacking camera backpack, the FERNWEH is your man.

    Click here to read our full WANDRD FERNWEH review.

    • Technical Specs
    Volume50L
    Dimensions26" x 13.75" x 9.5"
    Torso Length Fit16" - 20" (small/medium) 18" - 23" (large)
    Waist/Hips Fit26" - 45" (small/medium) 29" - 55" (large)
    Weight5 lbs / 2.27 kg
    Material420D Nylon 5PM Coating, 630D Nylon
  • Lowepro PhotoSport PRO III: Best Professional Hiking Camera Backpack

    Lowepro PhotoSport PRO III

    Many of the bags on this list, with ~40L capacity or less, are designed for shorter trips. By comparison, the Lowepro PhotoSport PRO III 55L and 70L backpacks are absolute beasts–there’s at least 15 more liters of volume compared to the other bags! If you’re a professional adventure photographer who regularly sets out on multi-day hikes, you’ll appreciate all this space.

    Both sizes can hold your mirrorless camera or DSLR with grip, 1-2 extra lenses, and a large tripod. It can also support a 3-liter hydration reservoir (sold separately). And despite all that, there’s lots of room leftover for all your hiking and camping gear.

    Each bag is also built with 86% recycled fabric. I love companies with a sustainable edge, and LowePro is certainly making moves on that front.

    Be forewarned, though—there’s a trade-off for all that extra capacity, though: the weight. The LowePro PhotoSport III is by far the heaviest bag in this round-up. For me personally, I travel with a minimal camera setup, which means this is way more bag than I need.

    However, if you’re carrying a lot of equipment and plan to max out the functionality of this bag, then I can definitely understand how this could be the right bag for you.

    • Technical Specs
    55L70L
    Size16” x 14” x 28”41cm x 36cm x 70cm16” x 14” x 31”41cm x 36cm x 80cm
    Weight6.6 lbs / 3 kg7 lbs / 3.2 kg
    Water ResistantYesYes
    Laptop StorageNoNo
    Carry-On ReadyNoNo
  • Burton F-Stop 28L Camera Backpack: Best Backpack for Extreme Sports

    Burton F-Stop 28L Camera Backpack

    Burton is known by many for producing high-quality products that last. The Burton F-Stop 28L camera backpack is just that.

    This Burton camera backpack is built tough and tested by Burton’s team of professional photographers to handle backcountry environments. Burton is so confident in this pack that it comes with a lifetime warranty!

    The F-Stop comes with 500d Nylon with a PU coated backing, meaning it’s not only strong but it’s also waterproof. This feature means that there’s no need for a removable rain cover, and you are ready for all environments all the time.

    The bag also has a front strap to carry your tripod, side pockets that can carry a water bottle, and a large easy access top pocket for other gear.

    In other words, this bag is a beast that won’t disappoint!

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size25.5" x 12" x 7.5" 65cm x 30.5cm x 19cm
    Weight5.1 lbs / 2.3kg
    Volume28L
    Water resistantYes
    Laptop storageNo
    Carry-on readyNo
  • Atlas Athlete Camera Pack: Best Hiking Camera Backpack with Water Bladder

    Atlas Athlete Camera Pack

    This is likely the most unique camera backpack on this list. Why? Because it simply doesn’t look like a camera backpack. Atlas has kept the same style as your everyday hiking backpack but made it camera friendly.

    Most hiking camera backpacks lack a water bladder, but this pack incorporates it perfectly.

    Its design isn’t hard or box like when compared with other hiking photography backpacks. The Atlas Athlete also holds weight close to the body which makes this pack better for carrying heavy loads.

    When it comes to the weather, this pack is two times coated with water repellent to keep your camera equipment dry in all weather conditions.

    Aside from being able to carry one pro DSLR and up to five lenses, it also has 30L of extra storage for all of your hiking essentials (along with plenty of side pockets).

    You can order this backpack in two frame sizes so it fits nice and snug – this is a feature you almost never see in hiking camera backpacks. What’s even better is that the frame is removable, perfect if you are planning a shorter day hike or need a backpack for city living.

    The Atlas Athlete camera pack is easily the best camera backpack for the serious hiker.

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size(medium frame)  21" x 11" x 7" 53cm x 28cm x 18cm
    Weight4.4lbs / 2kg
    Volume40L (expanded)
    Water resistantYes
    Laptop storageNo
    Carry-on readyYes
  • Vanguard Alta Sky 45D: Best Hiking Camera Backpack for Carrying Heavy Loads

    Vanguard Alta Sky 45D

    The Alta Sky 45D was built with the serious hiker in mind. This pack features two separate main compartments that allow you to both carry your camera gear and hiking essentials safely.

    Both compartments are sized to one-third and two-thirds respectively. This means that you can decide how much camera equipment versus hiking equipment you need.

    The Sky 45D doesn’t stop there either. Its well-padded shoulder straps and waist belt are built with long term comfort in mind and made to carry heavy loads.

    The backpack also features lots of other small pockets that can easily separate your smaller equipment, such as memory cards and the likes. This improves organization and all-around usability. It also has a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit up to a 13.3″ laptop.

    I love this backpack’s rugged and sturdy design too. Its large zippers and multiple access points mean you never far from your gear.

    There is one problem with this bag tho, it only comes with a 1-year warranty. With that said you can extend the warranty to a limited lifetime so, in that case, its a great pack for those longer and tougher hikes.

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size19.5" x 12.2" x 9" 49.5cm x 31cm x 23cm
    Weight4.9lbs / 2.98kg
    Capacity19.84 lbs
    Water resistantRemovable rain cover
    Laptop storageYes, 13" max
    Carry-on readyYes
  • Lowepro Whistler 350: Best Small Camera Backpack for Hiking

    Lowepro Whistler 350

    The Lowepro Whistler 350 is another one of the best camera backpacks, designed with the concept of carrying equal camera equipment and functional outdoor gear without the bulk.

    It’s a very well designed backpack that has heavy-duty straps perfect for attaching tripods, trekking poles and even skis. Although the pack isn’t water-resistant, it does come with a rain cover to protect it from the rain and snow.

    Another great feature to the Lowepro Whistler 350 is that the camera insert is removable meaning you can turn this hiking camera backpack into an everyday hiking bag.

    This bag would be a perfect fit for the amateur photographer or hobbyist who wants both a camera and hiking bag at different times.

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size20.9″ x 11.8″ x 11.6″ 53cm x 30cm x 29.5cm
    Weight6.54 lbs / 2.97kg
    CapacityCarries pro DSLR, 4 lenses, flash, & GoPro
    Water resistantRemovable cover
    Laptop storageNo
    Carry-on readyNo
  • Tamrac Anvil 23 Pro Photography Hiking Backpack: Best Mid-Size Hiking Camera Backpack

    Tamrac Anvil 23 Pro Camera Backpack

    The Tamrac Anvil 23 is a well-made camera backpack designed to get large amounts of gear to amazing locations. It features one super large main compartment that’s really handy if you shoot with big lenses. There is also one smaller front compartment.

    The pack has a well-supported harness and a waist belt that’s fully adjustable. It also features compression straps to help keep the weight close to the body and off of the shoulders.

    The Tamrac Anvil has a PU coated nylon and polyester shell which means it’s always ready for the rain. This backpack also comes with a removable cover for extra protection.

    It’s not all good news though, and in fact, the Anvil 23 doesn’t actually have much space for other hiking gear. This means that some or most of your hiking equipment would need to be stored with your camera gear.

    In light of that, this pack is still awesome for shorter hikes or for those who have lots of larger lenses and camera bodies. If the Anvil 23 isn’t the right size for you, try the Anvil 27 for more storage or the Anvil 17 for a more compact bag.

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size18.5" x 12" x 10" 47cm x 35cm x 25cm
    Size4.6lbs / 2.1kg
    Volume23L
    Water resistantYes
    Laptop storageYes, 15" max
    Carry-on readyYes
  • MindShift Gear BackLight 26L: Best Hiking Camera Backpack for Quick Access

    MindShift Gear BackLight 26L

    If you’re the photographer that likes to travel light with a small and versatile backpack then the MindShift Gear Backlight 26L might just be the perfect bag for you. It’s small enough that it’s easy to move in but large enough to carry a small arsenal of camera gear.

    Its separate 9L storage is big enough to carry all your day hiking essentials and its side pockets and extra clips perfect for securely carrying your tripod, hiking poles, and water bottles. You may also be surprised to hear it can carry up to a 15″ laptop!

    Front and rear panel access means you can access your gear at any time, whether the pack is on your back or the ground.

    The backpack’s outer and inner shell has water-resistant coatings to ensure it keeps your gear dry all day. For more extreme weather, you also have the protection of a removable rain cover that is fully waterproof!

    MindShift also backs the original owner with a lifetime warranty which makes this pack a great investment.

    The bag is a little small, but when it comes to a small, light pack that’s perfect for the shorter day hikes, the Backlight 26L is my top choice.

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size19.3″ x 10.2″ x 5.9″ 49cm x 26cm x 15cm
    Weight3.6lbs / 1.8kg
    Volume26L
    Water resistantYes
    Laptop storageYes, 15" max
    Carry-on readyYes
  • Lowepro GearUp: Best Camera Inserts for Hiking Camera Backpacks

    Lowepro Gear Up Pro 5L

    If you’re looking for the perfect camera gear inserts for your next hiking camera backpack, look no further than Lowepro’s GearUp inserts.

    This line of accessories accommodates different bags, organization types, and gear setups. The Gear Up Creator Box comes in sizes ranging from 2L to 8L, meaning you can get a bag that fits your needs best.

    Their GearUp Pro Camera Box is where they really shine. Coming in a 5L and 8L option, this box ensures your camera gear is safe and organized, no matter what bag you choose to pack it in.

    They also have a memory card wallet and zip pouches to accommodate all your accessories.

    • Technical Specs
    FeaturesDetails
    Size12.40" x 6.50" x 6.30"
    Weight0.66lbs
    Volume5L
    Water resistantYes
    Carry-on readyYes

What to Consider When Choosing a Hiking Camera Backpack

As you already know, not all backpacks are created equal. And some excel in certain areas but lack in others.

Choosing the best photography backpack for hiking is about understanding the most important features and knowing exactly what you need. As we compiled this list, these are the primary things we considered.

Shock-Resistant Protection

First and foremost is protection. If a camera bag doesn’t do this simple task, your camera gear is at risk of getting damaged.

The most standard type of protection you will find in all camera bags is padding. The padding in hiking backpack camera bags is designed to reduce the force of impact through compression. So you don’t just want any old hiking backpack with a camera compartment, you want something that’s been designed specifically for the job.

The big difference in the padding needed between a standard camera bag versus a hiking camera bag is its shock resistance, however. When you go hiking, you and your bag need to be prepared for the unexpected. As you climb over rocks, through bushes or up mountains, your bag will get knocked around.

photographer with a backpack standing on a ledge overlooking a desert
Having a shock resistant camera backpack is the most important feature

That knocking, as you can guess, is really bad for cameras and especially lenses, which rely on absolute precision to produce sharp, clear images. So finding a bag with adequate padding that can be organized to tightly fit your gear is crucial.

The best way to find this is to buy a pack specifically for the outdoors. The padding in these bags is firmer than cheap alternatives. All the backpacks we suggest below follow this simple but important rule.

Another common type of protection is a hard case. Pelican is the leader in hard-case camera protection. Along with adequate padding, having a hard case is arguably the best way to protect your camera gear.

Weatherproof Material

If you’re an experienced hiker, you probably already know how important it is to have weatherproof gear. Your camera bag is no exception.

For that reason, finding a camera backpack that can withstand the elements will keep your gear safe and sound in all weather conditions.

a man with an orange backpack walking through a muddy trail

The most important element you need to be prepared for is water. It may rain. You might have to cross some river rapids. You could slip in a mud puddle. Who knows.

There are two main types of waterproof styles:

  1. Water-resistant shell: These bags have a water-resistant outer shell. This means you aren’t required to cover the bag with a waterproof cover in order to have a relatively high level of protection. These bags can also come with an extra rain cover for more extreme weather.
  2. Built-in rain cover: Camera bags that don’t have a water-resistant shell will almost always come with a built-in rain cover. These can be attached in case it rains but offers little protection if your backpack gets submerged in water or you get unexpectedly wet.

Both styles of weatherproofing are effective in their own way. If you often hike in wet areas where rain can be unpredictable or you could fall into water, then having a pack that is water-resistant will be your bag of choice.

However, if this doesn’t sound like you, then spend your money on other features that are more important to you.

Comfort

When out hiking, you never want to find yourself wishing you bought a comfier backpack or leaving equipment at home because it’s too annoying to carry.

The support in camera backpacks for hiking varies massively, and it should be a driving factor when picking the right backpack. Some comfort features to consider include:

  • Padded shoulder straps are a game-changer when it comes to a heavy pack. They stop your shoulder straps from feeling like they’re cutting into your shoulders and provide long term comfort.
  • A padded waist belt is one of the best ways to relieve stress on your shoulders on longer hikes or when you are carrying heavier camera equipment. It’s best to find one with padding too. For me, buying a backpack with a hip strap is a must.
  • Frame systems or back stiffeners help keep your pack straight and help with weight distribution on the shoulders and hips. These systems are only generally required for heavy pack weights. If you shoot with only one camera and lens, then don’t stress if your bag doesn’t have this feature.
  • Padded backs are another great feature that not only stop hard objects from pressing against your back, but they also stiffen up the backpack. This is a really handy alternative if you don’t have the frame system.

Construction

The best camera bag for hiking is one that lasts. When it comes to making backpacks the two most popular materials are polyester and nylon. Both are great for making backpacks.

  • Nylon is a very durable material. Not only is it strong, but it deals well with different temperatures and can resist abrasions. Nylon is also naturally resistant to mold and most insects. Its downfalls, however, are UV light, which slowly degrades the material and color dyes (which polyester is much better at holding).
  • Polyester is also a very durable material. It dries fast because it doesn’t absorb water, is wear-resistant, lightweight and strong. That being said, polyester is generally not as durable as nylon and has a lower strength to weight ratio.

When it comes to picking a material, either will do the job fine. You could suggest leaning towards Polyester if you often hike in the rain, although these days almost all nylon hiking backpacks have a water-resistant coating. So it’s really going to come down to personal preference.

So what’s the answer? Well, when looking for either a nylon or polyester backpack, look for a high denier rating if you’re after strength. Most high-quality backpacks are made with a 500+ denier rating.

One other important construction detail is the zippers. You want to look for good quality ones that will last. YKK zippers account for half the zippers used on earth. They are regarded as really good quality zippers and a great choice on hiking backpacks.

Extra Storage

As you already know, cameras and lenses aren’t the only equipment you use when hiking. So picking a backpack that can hold everything you use on your hiking trips will make life much easier.

A laptop compartment, for example, is important for any photographer who prefers to upload their work right away. However, keep in mind that most backpacks have limits on the size of the laptop they can carry.

Elderly male photographer

You’ll also want to check if your backpack can hold a tripod. Most packs these days have clips on one side or on the front that can easily transport your tripod.

Extra storage doesn’t stop at camera gear, though. You’re going hiking, so you’re going to need supplies. Food, first aid, clothing and more all need to fit in your pack, too. Looking at your hiking style will give you a good indication of how much extra room you need. If you only do short hikes, for example, consider a bag under 30L. Or if you usually hike all day, consider choosing a bag around 40L.

Organizational Elements and Easy Access

No backpack design is perfect for everyone, and brands know that. For that reason, there are actually countless designs on the market.

Depending on your style of photography, look for a pack that speaks to you. Things like having multiple access points to your camera gear are great features because they let you find your own style and what works best for you.

One feature I can’t pass on is having an easy-access, top camera compartment to store your prime camera and lens.

I don’t like to hike with my camera in my hand or clipped to the outside of my bag. I find it far too risky on harder hikes. Having a padded camera compartment that’s easy to get to so I don’t miss a shot is a great feature.

Carry-On Backpack

I’m sure we have all looked out the window of a plane before we disembark and seen our luggage being tossed from the plane. Now imagine that it’s your camera bag…

If you plan to travel a lot with your bag then finding a bag that meets carry-on size requirements is a good idea. Remember, the bag doesn’t have to be exactly this size; it just needs to compress down to this size. So you can push the envelope a little.

Standard carry-on sizes for airplanes are 9″ x 14″ x 22″/ 22cm x 35cm x 56cm.

Price-to-Value

The cost of a product is a factor when deciding what to buy. However, it shouldn’t limit you from getting the bag you want or need.

Take my example: I once bought a cheap tripod so I could spend more money on my lenses. The idea behind it was that it’s just a stand. Well, fast forward a few months later and that flimsy tripod fell over. This not only destroyed my lens but, to this day, the autofocus on my camera still plays up.

I now own a very good tripod.

What I’m trying to say is that spending the money now could save you so much more in the future. Your camera backpack is an investment to care for your gear. Get the one you need.

Can you picture yourself hiking The Zion Narrows or the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or across Patagonia? Perhaps you need to see your own photos to believe it.

And, thanks to your hiking camera backpack, you’ll be able to do just that.

Hiking Camera Backpack FAQs

  • Are camera backpacks worth it?

    Camera backpacks are worth it for serious photographers who want a dedicated system for carrying camera gear.

  • How do you carry a camera in a hiking backpack?

    The best ways to carry a camera in a hiking backpack are to use a padded camera cube, an external camera loader, a Peak Design Capture Clip, or a dedicated camera backpack.

  • Should I take my camera backpacking?

    You should absolutely take your camera backpacking to capture the sights of the journey.

  • Does Osprey make a camera backpack?

    No, Osprey doesn’t make a dedicated camera backpack. However, many of their hiking packs work well with other camera cubes.

  • Can I bring a camera in my backpack on a plane?

    Yes, you can bring your camera in your backpack on a plane as long as the pack fits the size limits.

About the Author

Jeremy Scott Foster

Jeremy Scott Foster is an adventure-junkie, gear expert and travel photographer based in Southern California. Previously nomadic, he’s been to ~50 countries and loves spending time outdoors. You can usually find him on the trail, on the road, jumping from bridges or hustling on his laptop working to produce the best travel and outdoors content today.
4 comments
  1. Really nice article. There are some brands here that I haven’t heard yet but I would definitely check them out. I’ve mostly read reviews on LowerPro and Manfrotto. I’d always prefer water proof camera bags cause I mostly bring my laptop with me.
    Langly also has nice and quality camera bags, if you’d like to check them. Thank you for sharing.

    1. Hey John! LowePro and Manfrotto are two great companies, as is Langly. Great choices all around!

  2. In fact, I found the information I was looking for in your article. It’s really helpful.
    I have benefited from reading your article.
    Thank you very much.

  3. Link for Pelican S130 Sport Camera Pack is broken. I think they no longer offer this pack in 2022.

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