20 Best Camera Backpacks in 2024 (All Tested)

Finding the best camera backpack in such a saturated market can be challenging. You need something high-quality that protects your photography gear. You’ll want a backpack with useful features. And it has to suit the type of photography you enjoy, whether that’s street, wildlife, or travel.

We tested and reviewed 20 of the best camera backpacks on the market. We sourced a wide range of camera bags from the top manufacturers. And we put each bag through its paces. So this article lists all the camera backpacks, from the best to the not-so-great.

You can see our top three backpacks below. The Wandrd Prvke is our winner. It’s a beautifully constructed bag that’s usable, durable, and looks great! The Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader was a close second. It’s the most versatile backpack on the list. And the bronze goes to the Wandrd Transit 35L, a superb travel backpack for amateurs and pros alike.

What Is the Best Camera Backpack?

Before we discuss all 20 camera backpacks in detail, here’s an introduction to the top ten. We’ve listed the main pros for all ten, helping you find exactly what you need.

If you need more information, keep scrolling. And if this article isn’t enough, you can read a full review of all 20 backpacks (links provided in each section).

Testing and reviewing 20 backpacks isn’t easy. And, of course, rating backpacks can be subjective. But we’ve tried to be as objective and scientific as possible.

You might not agree with all the rankings. But our scoring process was fair and unbiased right across the board. To know more about our review process, read our detailed description of how we scored and ranked the backpacks.

Our Favorite Camera Backpacks

Now we’ll get into all 20 camera backpacks. The ranking only gives you a rough guide on which bag is best for you. The best products always float to the top in tests like these. But that doesn’t mean our winner is necessarily the best bag for you.

Our list is packed with fantastic camera backs for all occasions. We have travel backpacks for intrepid adventurers. We have specialist bags for wildlife photographers. And we have day bags for urban explorers and street photographers.

Remember, you can read the full review for each bag by clicking the link in the text.

The Wandrd Prvke camera backpack blends style, durability, and functionality. It builds on Prvke’s reputation for being a reliable option for photographers. It’s a versatile bag that fits the needs of an adventurous traveler-photographer.

Its build quality is exceptional, with a lifetime warranty to back it up. Its materials, from the fabric to the zippers, are solid and robust. So this camera backpack is not just a bag but a safe haven for your expensive gear.

Our reviewer liked the bag so much that he took it on holiday. And he liked it even more when he came back. It’s a super blend of style, functionality, and quality.

The 21L version might feel a bit limited in camera capacity. It’s ideal as a day bag with a mirrorless camera and one or two lenses. This will still leave room for a book and a lightweight jacket. And the roll-top allows that grocery shopping to get home easily.

But there are also larger 31L and 41L versions for those needing more space. The Wandrd Prvke camera backpack is a stylish and practical solution for photographers on the go. It’s not just a bag but a trusted companion for your photography journey.

In our full review of the Wandrd Prvke camera backpack, we gave it a score of 85.3 out of 100.

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The Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader is a camera backpack that impresses on many fronts. It’s a product from a brand with a rich history in photo gear.

The backpack’s design is thoughtful and functional. This makes it stand out in the competitive market.

The Multiloader is incredibly versatile. It’s spacious and sturdy, perfect for photographers who carry a lot of gear. But it’s not just about size. Its comfort and adaptability set it apart.

On the flip side, it may not be ideal for those seeking a lightweight backpack for a day out. But if you’re after a reliable, well-crafted camera backpack, the Multiloader is worth considering.

It’s a testament to Manfrotto’s commitment to quality and attention to detail. And it’s a solid investment for any serious photographer.

In our full review of the Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader camera backpack, we gave it a score of 84.9 out of 100. That is less than 1% lower than the top product. If you’re looking for a bag to carry all your gear for a day’s shoot, you’ll struggle to do better than this!

The Wandrd Transit 35L backpack is a brilliant camera bag for traveling photographers. Stylish, rugged, and highly usable, it makes the perfect travel companion for anyone traveling with camera gear. It doesn’t matter where you go, the Transit can come along for the ride. 

As with all the Wandrd bags we’ve been lucky enough to review, the Transit has fantastic build quality. The materials are top-notch inside and out, giving the bag a sense of reliability and quality as soon as you get your hands on it. 

The outer material is a combination of waterproof tarpaulin and Cordura, creating a tough shell that keeps the inside of the bag safe. It won’t tear easily, and it’s 100% weatherproof. You can use it in a monsoon without worrying about your camera getting wet. 

Padded straps and back protection make it a comfortable camera backpack, which is always important in a travel bag. The lack of a waist strap is disappointing, but the chest strap helps distribute the bag’s weight for a comfier wear. 

The most basic version of the bag has very little padding on the inside. It’s basically just a travel backpack. You need to add the camera cube to turn it into a photography travel bag. With the cube installed, the dividers and outer padding offer enough protection to keep your gear safe and sound. 

The dividers have stick padding and a Velcro strip at each end. They also bend, so you can customize the interior arrangement to fit your gear. And even with the camera cube, you have extra storage space at the top of the bag. It also has a padded laptop sleeve for your electronic devices. 

A side access opening allows you to grab your camera when you’re on the move. You don’t need to take the bag off to access your camera. It also has a wide array of additional internal and external pockets. The extra features also include water bottle holders and tripod straps on the side of the bag. 

As well as a 30-day money-back guarantee, Wandrd also offers a lifetime warranty. That means you can return the bag if you don’t like it to start with. But if you do, Wandrd have you covered in the long run. A company having confidence in its product inspires confidence in the buyer, which is certainly the case here. 

The Wandrd Transit Travel Backpack scored very well overall, with a total of 84.3 out of 100 after testing. Click the link to see the full review of this excellent camera backpack. 

The Wandrd Duo Daypack Camera Backpack is a top-tier choice for photographers. It stands out due to its compact, lightweight build and robust materials. Its weather protection is top-notch, ensuring your gear stays safe in any weather condition.

But the Duo Daypack isn’t just about protection. It’s also about the user’s experience. It has a range of unique features that make it more than just a backpack.

From a multitude of pockets to a convenient main zipper for easy access, the Duo Daypack is a joy to use. The features haven’t been added ad hoc. Every detail has been well-designed and carefully considered. It’s the perfect blend of function and form.

But the Duo Daypack is not without its flaws. It lacks space for multiple camera bodies. And some standard features, like tripod and waist straps, are sold separately.

Despite these minor limitations, the Duo Daypack remains a worthy investment. It’s a high-quality, stylish, and practical camera backpack. It isn’t the cheapest backpack. But it’s worth every penny.

In our full review of the Wandrd Duo Daypack camera backpack, we gave it a score of 82.6 out of 100. It’s thoroughly worthy of its place in the top three.

As a day bag, some photographers will find it limited. But when it comes to quality, design, and functionality, the Wandrd Duo Daypack is hard to beat.

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The Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III camera backpack offers convenience and security. It’s designed for photographers who need to act quickly.

The bag’s QuickDoor access feature combines the best of both side and full-compartment access. And it provides a practical solution for on-the-go photographers.

The bag is made of lightweight nylon material. This ensures it remains easy to carry, even when packed with equipment. But the minimal padding might affect comfort during long hours of use.

Despite this, the Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III stands out with its design focus. It’s a bag built by photographers, for photographers.

Each component, from the access points to the zippers, is designed with the user’s experience in mind. It’s a practical, everyday backpack that successfully marries convenience with security.

In our full review of the Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III camera backpack, we gave it a score of 81.5 out of 100. It just misses as a top-three bag. But many photographers may consider this the best bag on the market.

The Lowepro FreeLine BP 350 AW is an exceptional camera backpack that delivers on multiple fronts. It’s designed for photographers who value style, simplicity, and quality construction.

The exterior of the bag is sleek and professional. So it’s an ideal choice for various photography genres. And the bag’s interior is built with high-grade materials, ensuring the safety of your gear.

Its innovative QuickShelf divider system allows easy organization and access to equipment. But its side access design might be a bit inconvenient for some, as the flaps don’t stay open.

The bag’s build quality is top-notch. It uses a high-grade nylon 66 exterior material that’s water- and abrasion-resistant.

And despite its premium pricing, the bag’s longevity and durability make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re a street or wedding photographer, the FreeLine BP 350 AW offers style, convenience, and durability.

In our full review of the Lowepro FreeLine BP 350 AW camera backpack, we gave it a score of 81 out of 100. It slightly trails behind its Lowepro sibling.

But the FreeLine holds its own thanks to its great design and features. Its high-quality materials give it an edge over many bags on this list.

The Nomatic McKinnon 25L camera backpack is an impressive piece of gear. It’s stylish and lightweight yet keeps your equipment safe.

A well-respected manufacturer and a famous photographer designed it. And the result is a backpack that’s perfect for photographers.

The “ladder” insert and removable cubes offer versatility. These features have been well-executed, reflecting Nomatic’s reputation for quality and innovation.

But it isn’t perfect. Its main shortcoming is the lack of a quick-access side opening. The top access arrangements make up for this slightly, though some may find it lacking.

Despite this, the Nomatic McKinnon 25L camera backpack remains a top pick. It offers a perfect blend of style, flexibility, and protection. And the bag even comes with a lifetime warranty!

In our full review of the Nomatic McKinnon 25L Camera Backpack, we gave it a score of 79.2 out of 100. Our reviewer’s daughter, a photographer, quickly snatched up the test model. And it hasn’t disappointed.

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“Camera bags that don’t look like camera bags.” That’s the task Peter McKinnon and the Nomatic team set themselves with the Luma Collection. And we think they’ve achieved a high level of success in that mission. The backpack and the two sling bags are both stylish and discreet, which is perfect for photographers wanting to keep a low profile. 

The Luma Backpack 18L is a fantastic choice for photographers of all kinds. Whether you’re a street photographer or traveler, professional or amateur, the Luma backpack won’t disappoint. 

The casual design might lead one to think it might be casual in the protection department. But that’s far from the truth. The outer material is a durable 900D Polyester. It’s tear-proof, so even a knife would struggle to penetrate. It’s also waterproof, so you can take the bag out in any weather. 

Well-padded shoulder straps and a chest strap offer comfort when you’re carrying a heavy load. The YKK waterproof zippers are also top quality, and you’ll struggle to find fault with the seams and stitching. The overall build quality is excellent. 

Bendable padded dividers help you customize the interior space, which is one open-space compartment. There’s a good selection of different-sized dividers. And while the padding isn’t especially thick, it does offer a good level of protection. 

Side access allows you to take your camera out without taking the bag off. There are two medium-sized pockets on the inside of the main flap. You also have a top pocket for smaller accessories. 

There is a tripod-holder feature, but it’s on the front of the backpack, not the side. There’s a little holder for one of the tripod legs at the bottom of the bag and a hook and strap in the middle that keeps the tripod secure. It’s an original solution but not the most reliable for heavy tripods. 

A 10-year warranty gives buyers good peace of mind, which is good because the bag isn’t cheap. We expect the bag to last a long time, so you should get your money’s worth out of a single purchase. 

A score of 83.4 out of 100 gives the backpack a really strong showing, making it into the top five. Read the full review of the Nomatic McKinnon Luma Backpack 18L here to find out more. 

Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L is a powerhouse among camera backpacks. Born from a collaboration of photography enthusiasts and climbers, it carries a mountaineering heritage.

It’s not just an adventure-oriented bag. It’s professional gear designed for hiking photographers. Its impressive carrying capacity and lightweight design make it a top contender.

But it’s not perfect. The rucksack vibe may not suit everyone. It has only one access point to the main compartment. And the waist strap isn’t detachable or stowable.

Padding between the sides and the interior may also be insufficient for some. Yet, with a lifetime warranty, it reassures buyers of its high-quality build.

The MindShift BackLight 18L proves to be very capable. It blends functionality with design, and although it has flaws, it’s a strong contender in the camera backpack market. It impressed us with the amount of gear that can be safely stowed.

In our full review of the Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L Camera Backpack, we gave it a score of 76.1 out of 100. If you’re used to strapping lots of gear to your bag for a day out, the Think Tank could be perfect for you.

The Tenba Fulton V2 camera backpack is a lightweight, weather-resistant option for casual photographers. Its sleek and minimalist design makes it a great choice for everyday use.

The bag’s superior weather resistance and the durable material used in its construction make it perfect for urban photographers navigating various weather conditions.

The main drawback of the Tenba Fulton V2 is its limited storage space for personal items. But its lightweight nature and comfortable build make it an ideal backpack to carry.

And its security features, like the rear access to the camera compartment, add extra layers of protection for your gear.

Despite its position in the middle of the rankings, the Tenba Fulton V2 still offers good value. It’s for photographers seeking a minimalist, robust, and affordable camera backpack.

In our full review of the Tenba Fulton V2 camera backpack, we gave it a score of 76 out of 100. Surprisingly, it did not place higher. But the Tenba Fulton V2 is well worth considering.

The scoring took into account the poor warranty and minimal additional features. So if these aren’t issues for you, it is still a strong contender!

The Thule Covert 32L camera backpack is a dream come true for outdoor photographers. It has a rugged build, is made of high-quality materials, and has impressive durability.

This makes it ideal for those who often find themselves in challenging environments. Despite being on the heavy side, the weight is justified by its solid construction and superior features.

The Covert’s versatility is another standout aspect. The customizable padded dividers allow photographers to carry different gear.

You can also remove the padded camera section and use it as an independent sling bag. This adds a whole new level of versatility.

The Covert does have a few downsides. The weight might be a concern for some, especially for older users. And the limited space in the padded camera pouch could be a letdown for professionals.

But the Thule Covert 32L Camera Backpack is worth considering for those passionate about outdoor photography. Its robustness, versatility, and high protection standard make it a solid investment.

In our full review of the Thule Covert 32L camera backpack, we gave it a score of 75.4 out of 100. The Covert should have ranked higher. But Thule’s disappointing two-year warranty hurt its final score. If not for that, it would have been several places higher.

The Think Tank Airport Essentials is a top-notch camera backpack. It’s specifically designed for air travel. And it’s compact, lightweight, and smartly designed.

Its size and efficient use of space are its biggest strengths. It can carry multiple camera bodies, lenses, and even a laptop. You can fill it to the brim without exceeding the carry-on luggage limits.

The bag’s exterior is made of durable, water-repellent material, making it tough and travel-friendly. The interior, though, could use more padding for better gear protection.

Despite this, the bag is well-constructed and offers good value for money. It’s a solid investment for photographers who fly frequently.

The backpack’s lack of versatility might be a downside for some. But its strengths lie in its excellent storage capacity, efficient use of space, and stylish design.

In our full review of the Think Tank Airport Essentials camera backpack, we gave it a score of 75.4 out of 100. The lack of versatility has put the Airport Essentials in the lower half of the list.

But the quality construction and a lifetime warranty mean it still scrapes into the top ten. The Think Tank Airport Essentials is a reliable travel companion for photographers.

The Trekker Lite BP 250 AW is a camera backpack designed for adventure. It’s lightweight and compact, making it perfect for photographers who love to explore. And its removable camera compartment allows customization, depending on your needs.

Lowepro is a well-known brand with a reputation for durability. The Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW is part of their “Green Line” emphasizing sustainability. It’s made of 80% recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly choice.

But the bag does have some limitations. Its camera compartment is on the smaller side, making it suitable for a full frame mirrorless or compact camera with one additional lens. Also, it lacks a waist strap.

Despite these limitations, the Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW is an excellent choice for photographers who value lightweight design, flexibility, and sustainability. Its unique features and design make it a solid addition to any photo gear collection.

In our full review of the Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW camera backpack, we gave it a score of 74.7 out of 100. The camera bag’s lack of padding and versatility gave it a low overall score.

As we can see, this bag has a particular purpose. So it may not be a great overall camera bag. But it does what it is designed for exceptionally well.

The Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 is a camera backpack designed with wildlife and outdoor photographers in mind. Its design is simple yet practical and unique. And the durable materials ensure longevity even for the most adventurous users.

The bag is versatile enough for air travel or outdoor expeditions. The Kiboko V2 designers had photo safaris in mind when creating this backpack.

The Kiboko V2.0 flaunts a robust outer frame and ample storage capacity. It’s ideal for housing large lenses, a plus for wildlife photographers.

The dual compartments split opinion. Some love it because it increases flexibility, letting you pack gear in one and other personal items in the other. But others might prefer one large compartment for more equipment.

The Kiboko V2.0 offers excellent weather protection. The outer material is already weather-resistant. But the bag also comes with a completely weatherproof case. So you can walk around in the rain for hours without worrying about your gear.

The backpack also features a laptop sleeve, tripod strap, and water bottle holder, adding to its appeal. But with its relatively high price tag, the Kiboko V2.0 may be more suited to professionals.

In our full review of the Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 22L camera backpack, we gave it a score of 72.9 out of 100. The Kiboko V2 is a fantastic camera backpack for wildlife expeditions in the jungle or savannah.

But the high price has taken a chuck out of the final score. Even a slight discount would put this Kiboko bag higher on our list.

The Peak Design Everyday Zip 15L camera backpack is an intriguing blend of style and functionality. Its compact, lightweight design is a plus and perfect for urban explorers.

The brand’s commitment to sustainability in using recycled materials is commendable. The bag also has a lifetime warranty, inspiring confidence in the product’s durability.

But the backpack’s design isn’t without flaws. The main compartment, while spacious, lacks sufficient padding for camera gear.

The unique divider system is innovative. But it complicates organization and fails to provide ample protection.

Despite these drawbacks, the Peak Design Everyday Zip shines in its weatherproofing abilities. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, providing excellent protection for your equipment.

In essence, the Peak Design Everyday Zip is a reliable camera backpack with a unique design and high-quality build. Many urban photographers will have a good time with it.

In our full review of the Peak Design Everyday Zip 15L camera backpack, we gave it a score of 72.5 out of 100. We commend Peak Design for its original thinking. But their originality hasn’t quite hit the mark. Its awkward design means it lost points for usability.

The Tenba DNA 16 DSLR camera backpack stands out for its unique design and versatility. It’s a chameleon, blending seamlessly into any professional event or casual outing.

The bag’s standout feature is its front camera insert that opens like a mailbox. It provides easy and discrete access to your camera gear.

But the camera compartment leaves a bit to be desired. It’s small, and the padding is thin, which might not adequately protect your gear. The bag’s design prioritizes casual and street photographers who carry minimal equipment.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Tenba DNA 16 DSLR offers good value. The weatherproof materials and durable construction make it a reliable choice for photographers on the go.

And its sleek, unassuming exterior lets it fit into any environment without drawing unwanted attention. So it’s a solid choice for photographers seeking a functional, stylish, and adaptable camera backpack.

In our full review of the Tenba DNA 16 DSLR camera backpack, we gave it a score of 72.5 out of 100. The overall score took a big hit due to the lack of camera storage space. But this bag still suits those who don’t have an extensive camera gear collection.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is a sturdy camera backpack renowned for its build quality and use of sustainable materials.

Peak Design’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the 100% recycled post-consumer materials. This environmentally-friendly approach has earned the brand a positive reputation in the photography community.

But the backpack’s design has some drawbacks. The side camera access, while convenient, can make organization and gear retrieval a bit challenging.

And its divider arrangement is also less intuitive than other models. So it might be a deterrent for some photographers.

Despite these minor issues, the bag’s durability and weatherproof qualities make it a reliable choice. It’s suitable for daily use in various environments, from city commutes to mountain treks.

The clamshell design and sleek aesthetics add a touch of professionalism. So it’s an ideal choice for photographers who value style and functionality.

In our full review of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 Camera Backpack, we gave it a score of 72.3 out of 100. The open-shell nature of this camera bag scored low on our list.

This is because it doesn’t seem to manage its space extremely well. But the high-quality materials do make it a bag still worth considering.

The Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ is a photographer’s ultimate companion. Designed by photographers, it understands the unique needs of a camera carrier.

The bag is lightweight, making it easy to carry around. But it doesn’t compromise on protection. Its high-tech weatherproof materials ensure your camera gear is safe from the elements.

The bag is tailored for mirrorless cameras, yet it’s versatile enough for a full frame DSLR. This versatility extends to its customization options. You can organize your gear in a way that suits your workflow.

This thoughtfulness extends to its production too. The camera backpack’s main component is produced in a carbon-neutral factory, making it an eco-friendly choice.

While the Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ may not be the cheapest option, it offers great value. Its robust construction, thoughtful design, and eco-friendly manufacturing make it a worthy investment.

In our full review of the Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ camera backpack, we gave it a score of 72.1 out of 100. It suffered in value when looking at costs.

It gets expensive if you pay extra for a hip belt and waterproof cover. But the basic bag is super light, comfortable, and very practical.

The f-stop Dalston is a lightweight, roll-top camera backpack for urban exploration. The simple design and durable materials make it a decent choice for photographers with a minimal setup.

The backpack’s greatest strength is its weight. Despite its 21L capacity, it weighs just 1.8 lb (0.82 kg). So it’s ideal for on-the-go photographers.

It’s also versatile. You can use the backpack with or without the padded camera section. Once removed, the Dalston becomes a standard backpack with a large capacity for clothes and other personal effects.

But the Dalston has its shortcomings. The synthetic feel of the materials doesn’t scream luxury. And the camera insert lacks adequate padding. The bag also has layout and access issues, making it less user-friendly.

The Dalston’s color options are also a letdown. You can choose Aloe Green or Nasturtium Orange, and neither has a broad appeal.

The weather protection is respectable. You can walk about in the rain for long periods without issue. But it lacks features we expect to see even on basic camera backpacks.

In our full review of the f-stop Dalston Camera Backpack, we gave it a score of 60.6 out of 100. The majority of points came from its durability and the build materials. But the Dalston lost points due to the lack of features, awkward side access design, and a short warranty period.

The f-stop Dyota is a stylish, lightweight camera backpack. It’s made from quality materials and boasts a waterproof design. But when it comes to functionality as a camera bag, it disappoints.

The Dyota’s padding is inadequate, offering protection only on three sides. This leaves your gear vulnerable to side impacts.

Customization is also limited, with the camera unit proving awkward to adjust. Access to your equipment is also challenging, with stiff material and narrow openings. And this makes it difficult to retrieve your gear.

While the Dyota may be suitable for some, it falls short in key areas. It’s sleek and modern but lacks the practicality and flexibility needed in a camera backpack.

Despite its high-quality construction, we can’t overlook its shortcomings. For photographers needing a reliable, well-padded backpack, the Dyota may not be the best choice.

In our full review of the f-stop Dyota camera backpack, we gave it a score of 58.5 out of 100. It fell short in the key areas of protection and practicality. We think there are much better options out there.

Conclusion: The Best Camera Backpack

We’ll be surprised if you haven’t found the perfect camera backpack from our list. We’ve tried and tested all 20 of them.

And we’ve reviewed different types of backpacks so every photographer can find what they’re looking for. So whether you’re a street photographer in the city or a wildlife photographer on safari, there’s a backpack here for your type of photography.

You might not agree with all the rankings. But we’ve done this to give you an idea of what’s great and not so great. Coming to these conclusions wasn’t easy. But we’ve been fair and objective with all the camera backpacks.

Most photographers would be happy with any of the top three backpacks. The Wandrd Prvke is the height of quality for camera bags. You’ll be lucky to find a backpack with better usability and functionality than the Manfrotto Multiloader. And if you’re looking for something casual, the Wandrd Duo Daypack is your best option.

Use our discount code EXPERTPHOTOGRAPHY at checkout for 15% off your first Wandrd order!