For adventure photographers who often find themselves in wild and rugged terrains, the right backpack is essential. A good backpack keeps your equipment safe and is comfortable on long treks. In 2024, the options for photography backpacks are better than ever, no matter what your style is. Here are the best backpacks for photographers:
What to look for in a photographer backpack
When shopping for the best adventure camera backpack, consider the following essential features:
- Camera storage and accessibility. Find a backpack with customizable camera cubes or compartments that protect and separate your camera bodies and lenses. Look for features like side access so you can grab your camera without removing your backpack.
- Durability and weather resistance. You work in all kinds of weather conditions, so you need a backpack that is high-quality and made from durable materials. Look for waterproof fabrics with a rain cover to give you peace of mind.
- Comfort and support. Since adventure photography often involves long treks, comfort is key. Look for padded shoulder straps, a supportive back panel, and a chest strap.
- Size and capacity. Your backpack needs to accommodate all your gear without being overly bulky. Consider models with expansion capabilities or additional external storage.
- Extra features. Additional features such as tripod holders, laptop sleeves, and multiple access points can enhance functionality and convenience.
Best backpacks for photographers
Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2
Price: Approximately $280
Design: The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 has aesthetic appeal and smart design. It features a sleek, minimalist exterior with customizable internal dividers for easy organization of camera gear and personal items. The backpack provides:
- quick side access to equipment
- expandable side pockets for tripods or water bottles
- a laptop sleeve for up to a 15-inch laptop.
Durability: Made with a 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell, this backpack is weather-resistant. It withstands the demands of both urban and outdoor environments. The base is made from 900-denier waterproof material to keep gear dry.
Additional Features: The backpack includes:
- a flexible and innovative MagLatch closure system for securing your items
- adjustable straps for external carry
- the ability to expand or contract depending on the load
Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW II
Price: Around $230 to $275
Design: This backpack is highly functional for serious photographers who need to carry a substantial amount of gear. It offers multiple access points including a quick-grab top, sides, and full back entry for set-up and security. The interior is fully customizable with adjustable dividers to accommodate various camera setups.
Durability: Constructed from high-grade materials including nylon and polyester, the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW II can endure rugged use. It includes a built-in All Weather AW Cover™ to protect against rain, snow, dust, and sand.
Additional Features: The backpack has a SlipLock compatible strap system for adding components, a bottle pouch, a tripod cup, and two cinch straps—all included. It also features a laptop pocket that can fit up to a 15-inch laptop.
Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L Backpack
Price: Approximately $200 (plus $60 for the optional camera insert)
Design: Photographer Alex Strohl helped create this backpack for adventure photography. The lightweight yet spacious design carries a full backpacking load along with camera gear. The pack features:
- easy access points
- an internal frame for load support
- modular interior dividers to customize camera and personal gear storage
Durability: The Strohl Mountain Light is made from 210D waterproof Cordura ripstop and rugged Powermesh. This makes it both lightweight and durable enough to handle harsh outdoor conditions.
Additional Features: This backpack is comfortable and functional on long hikes. It offers a removable top lid, large side pockets, and hip belt pockets for easy access to smaller items while on the move.
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