Top Camera Backpacks For Travel Photographers

Travel photographers, ever found yourself digging through a jumbled backpack while your subject smiles and moves on? Or felt every vertebra groan under a heavy load halfway up a trail? The right camera backpack can save your back and keep your kit organized, no matter where you roam.

In this review, you’ll discover the top camera backpacks for travel photographers that balance comfort, protection, and accessibility—so you can focus on the shot, not the schlepp.

Key Backpack Features

Before diving into specific packs, let’s cover the must-haves for any travel photographer’s backpack. Think of these as your checklist when comparing models:

• Capacity and expandability: Will your kit fit now and as it grows?
• Comfort and support: Padded straps, waist belt, and ventilated back panels matter on long hauls
• Weather resistance: A built-in rain cover or waterproof shell keeps gear dry—see what to look for in a waterproof camera backpack (/what-to-look-for-in-a-waterproof-camera-backpack)
• Quick-access points: Side or top openings let you grab a lens fast—ideal for street and urban shoots
• Tripod attachment: Straps or pockets that secure a tripod without adding bulk—learn how to carry a tripod using a camera backpack (/how-to-carry-a-tripod-using-a-camera-backpack)
• Modular dividers: Adjustable, padded inserts protect gear and adapt as you swap lenses—get tips on how to customize a camera backpack with inserts (/how-to-customize-a-camera-backpack-with-inserts)
• Laptop compartment: A TSA-friendly sleeve is handy when you need to edit on the go
• Organizational pockets: Dedicated slots for memory cards, cables, and filters keep small items from bouncing around—see how to protect your DSLR gear in a backpack (/how-to-protect-your-dslr-gear-in-a-backpack)

Keep these features in mind as you scan the detailed reviews below.

Atlas Adventure Pack

Best Overall for Versatility

The Atlas Adventure Pack earns top marks for travel photographers thanks to its Origami fold system. This expandable design adjusts capacity on the fly—from a streamlined daypack to a full-on weekend hauler.

• Capacity: 25–40 liters (expandable)
• Weight: 3.3 pounds
• Material: High-density nylon with water-resistant coating
• Access: Rear panel plus top and side pockets
• Tripod carry: Fold-out side straps
• Price: ~$330

Pros

• Adjustable origami system adapts to kit size
• Well-padded harness and hip belt for comfort
• Multiple access points speed up lens swaps

Cons

• Higher price point
• Bulkier when fully expanded

Why It’s Great
With the Adventure Pack, you’re ready for anything—city streets, mountain trails, or airport terminals. Its weatherproof shell meets many of the criteria in the guide on what to look for in a waterproof camera backpack (/what-to-look-for-in-a-waterproof-camera-backpack), so sudden downpours won’t ruin your day. A casually clipped tripod fits neatly on the side.

Shimoda Explore V2 Backpack

Best for Organized Travel

Shimoda’s Explore V2 Backpack balances camera gear and travel essentials in a comfortable 35-liter package. The dedicated tripod pocket and removeable camera cube make lens changes feel effortless.

• Capacity: 35 liters
• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Material: 420D nylon, 100% PU coating
• Access: Front-zipping camera cube, top travel compartment
• Tripod carry: Dedicated lower pocket
• Price: ~$360

Pros

• Removable ICU (Internal Camera Unit) for quick packing
• Solid back support with adjustable torso height
• Durable, water-resistant construction

Cons

• Steeper price tag
• Travel compartment a bit shallow for bulky items

Why It’s Great
If you switch between gear and clothes, the detachable cube streamlines packing. When your tripod goes on duty, slip it into the bottom pocket—no extra straps required. For more on tripod carry methods, check how to carry a tripod using a camera backpack (/how-to-carry-a-tripod-using-a-camera-backpack).

Peak Design Travel Backpack

Best for Day-Hikes and City Treks

Peak Design’s Travel Backpack merges camera and travel worlds with a large main compartment that handles everything from your full-frame DSLR to extra layers. The padded shoulder straps feel comfy on day hikes, though they aren’t ideal for multi-day treks.

• Capacity: 20–45 liters (adjustable)
• Weight: 3.1 pounds
• Material: 400D nylon canvas shell, weatherproof
• Access: Dual side zips, top flap, rear panel
• Tripod carry: External quick-clip straps
• Price: ~$300

Pros

• Generous expandability for souvenirs or a drone
• Multiple pockets for cards, cables, and filters
• Sleek design that doesn’t scream “camera bag”

Cons

• Straps aren’t optimal for long, loaded hikes
• Fewer internal dividers than a dedicated camera pack

Why It’s Great
When you need a pack that moonlights as your day-to-day bag, this is a solid pick. Street photographers and casual hikers alike enjoy the clean look and quick access. For more on balancing travel and camera needs, see how to differentiate between hiking and camera backpacks (/the-difference-between-hiking-and-camera-backpacks).

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

Best Airline-Friendly Design

For jet-setting photographers, the Everyday Backpack 30L handles cabin-friendly dimensions and offers a TSA-friendly laptop sleeve. Its quick-access side doors mean you won’t miss a moment on the tarmac.

• Capacity: 20 or 30 liters
• Weight: 2.3 pounds
• Material: 400D nylon, 100% recycled shell
• Access: Dual side-zip loading, top quick pocket
• Tripod carry: External side straps
• Price: ~$260

Pros

• Slim profile fits most airline carry-on requirements
• Quick camera access from either side
• Built-in laptop compartment is TSA-friendly—learn more at how to travel with a camera backpack on a plane (/how-to-travel-with-a-camera-backpack-on-a-plane)

Cons

• Limited expansion for non-camera gear
• Side straps can snag when packed full

Why It’s Great
If you’re hopping flights and shooting urban scenes, this pack lets you breeze through security. Grab your camera without unpacking the entire bag and slide your laptop out in one smooth move.

Manfrotto PRO Light Backloader

Best Value Pick

The Manfrotto PRO Light Backloader combines premium build quality with affordability. Its fold-out rain cover and customizable dividers make it a standout at under $200.

• Capacity: 15–20 liters
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Material: Nylon blend, DWR rain cover
• Access: Rear panel only
• Tripod carry: Side-mounted straps
• Price: ~$180

Pros

• Excellent waterproof rating and rain cover
• Plenty of internal room for camera plus small drone
• Great price for quality build

Cons

• Single access point can slow you down
• Lower capacity for travel gear beyond photo kit

Why It’s Great
On a budget but unwilling to compromise on protection, this pack delivers. The fold-out rain cover seals out the elements—ideal if you roam unpredictable climates.

Lowepro Whistler 450 BP AW II

Best Splurge Option

If you need volume and waterproof confidence, the Whistler 450 BP AW II stands out. At 36 liters, it stores your camera kit alongside a weekend’s worth of clothes, all under a 9 out of 10 waterproofness rating.

• Capacity: 36 liters
• Weight: 4.7 pounds
• Material: 420D nylon ripstop, AW Cover
• Access: Top-load main compartment, side camera door
• Tripod carry: QuickSide™ tripod connection
• Price: ~$350

Pros

• Superior all-weather protection with AW Cover
• Roomy for camera, personal gear, and laptop
• Comfortable harness system for extended wear

Cons

• Heavier base weight
• Velcro inserts could be more durable

Why It’s Great
For those willing to invest, the Whistler handles rain, snow, and sand without batting an eye. The roomy design and pro-grade materials justify the splurge.

F-Stop Tilopa DuraDiamond Pack

Best Modular Storage

This pack shines with its removable ICU (Internal Camera Unit), letting you swap gear sets in seconds. The updated DuraDiamond shell adds durability for rugged travel.

• Capacity: 35–60 liters (removable ICUs)
• Weight: 4.9 pounds
• Material: 500D HD Flex™ fabric, DuraDiamond base
• Access: Front-loading ICU, top travel compartment
• Tripod carry: Padded side sleeves
• Price: ~$250

Pros

• Fully customizable ECU system—ideal as your kit evolves
• Rugged build for adventures off the beaten path
• Slim ICU options for mirrorless setups

Cons

• Heavier than standard travel packs
• Learning curve for module reconfiguration

Why It’s Great
As your lenses multiply, this pack grows with you. The modular dividers simplify kit changes—see how to customize a camera backpack with inserts (/how-to-customize-a-camera-backpack-with-inserts).

F-Stop Kashmir 2 AIR

Best for Hiking and Travel

The Kashmir 2 AIR blends a rugged hiking harness with camera-ready protection. With a highly water-resistant exterior and 33-liter capacity, it’s the hybrid you didn’t know you needed.

• Capacity: 33 liters
• Weight: 4.4 pounds
• Material: 400D nylon exterior, 100% PU coated
• Access: Clamshell camera door, top gear pocket
• Tripod carry: Dual side straps
• Price: ~$280

Pros

• Balanced weight distribution with hiking harness
• Extra attachment points for tools and accessories
• Durable shell stands up to rain and abrasion

Cons

• Slightly bulkier for urban use
• Higher price than casual camera-only bags

Why It’s Great
When you can’t decide between a hiking pack and a camera bag, the Kashmir 2 AIR solves that dilemma. For more on blending hiking and photography, check the difference between hiking and camera backpacks (/the-difference-between-hiking-and-camera-backpacks).

Thule Covert Camera Backpack

Best for Minimalists

If you shoot light and move fast, Thule’s Covert Backpack delivers. This sleek pack tucks into urban environments, yet still carries two lenses and a DSLR body in its hidden camera compartment.

• Capacity: 20 liters
• Weight: 2.5 pounds
• Material: Polyester with PU coating
• Access: Discreet zip camera compartment, top travel pocket
• Tripod carry: Slim side straps
• Price: ~$150

Pros

• Stealthy design doesn’t scream “expensive gear”
• Ample organizational pockets for small accessories
• Lightweight and comfortable

Cons

• Limited storage for multiple lenses
• Thin straps aren’t ideal for heavy loads

Why It’s Great
For street and urban shooters, this is the bag you want slung over one shoulder. If you’re debating gear cases, see camera backpack vs. hard case: which is better (/camera-backpack-vs-hard-case-which-is-better).

Nomatic McKinnon 35L Pack

Best for Tech-Heavy Shoots

Nomatic teamed up with photographer Tanner McKinnon to build a pack that handles cameras, laptops, and all your cables. The 35L capacity keeps your MacBook Pro and mirrorless rig side by side in padded comfort.

• Capacity: 35 liters
• Weight: 4.2 pounds
• Material: 100% waterproof tarpaulin exterior
• Access: Front panel opening, magnetic quick-grab pocket
• Tripod carry: Side straps plus dedicated pocket
• Price: ~$329

Pros

• Spacious laptop compartment up to 16 inches
• Magnetic quick-grab pockets for frequent-use items
• Robust weatherproof tarpaulin shell

Cons

• Heavier than minimalist packs
• Magnetic closures can snag in tight spaces

Why It’s Great
If your shoot involves both camera and laptop, this pack keeps them organized and safe. The TSA-friendly sleeve is perfect for airport runs—see camera backpacks with TSA-friendly laptop compartments (/camera-backpacks-with-tsa-friendly-laptop-compartments).

Backpack Comparison Table

Backpack	Capacity	Weight	Waterproof Rating	Key Feature	Price
Atlas Adventure Pack	25–40 L	3.3 lb	8/10	Origami expandable fold system	$330
Shimoda Explore V2 Backpack	35 L	4.5 lb	9/10	Removable ICU	$360
Peak Design Travel Backpack	20–45 L	3.1 lb	7/10	Sleek city/trail hybrid	$300
Peak Design Everyday Backpack	20/30 L	2.3 lb	6/10	TSA-friendly laptop sleeve	$260
Manfrotto PRO Light Backloader	15–20 L	3 lb	8/10	Fold-out rain cover	$180
Lowepro Whistler 450 BP AW II	36 L	4.7 lb	9/10	All-weather AW Cover	$350
F-Stop Tilopa DuraDiamond Pack	35–60 L	4.9 lb	8/10	Modular ICU system	$250
F-Stop Kashmir 2 AIR	33 L	4.4 lb	8/10	Hiking harness hybrid	$280
Thule Covert Camera Backpack	20 L	2.5 lb	7/10	Discreet camera compartment	$150
Nomatic McKinnon 35L Pack	35 L	4.2 lb	10/10	Tech-heavy, tarpaulin shell	$329

Frequently Asked Questions

Which backpack is best for airline carry-on use?

For most airlines, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack (20L/30L) meets carry-on dimensions and offers a TSA-friendly laptop sleeve—ideal for jet-setters.

Do I need a waterproof camera backpack?

A water-resistant shell and rain cover protect expensive gear in sudden storms. If you shoot outdoors, check our guide on what to look for in a waterproof camera backpack (/what-to-look-for-in-a-waterproof-camera-backpack).

How do I attach a tripod securely?

Look for padded side sleeves or quick-clip straps. The Shimoda Explore V2 Backpack features a dedicated tripod pocket that keeps gear snug—learn more at how to carry a tripod using a camera backpack (/how-to-carry-a-tripod-using-a-camera-backpack).

Can I fit a laptop and camera gear together?

Yes. Packs like the Nomatic McKinnon 35L and Peak Design Everyday Backpack include dedicated laptop compartments alongside camera cubbies. Check camera backpacks with TSA-friendly laptop compartments (/camera-backpacks-with-tsa-friendly-laptop-compartments).

What size backpack should I choose for travel?

Aim for 20–35 liters for day-to-day shooting. If you pack clothes for overnight trips, consider expandable models like the Atlas Adventure Pack or Peak Design Travel Backpack.

Are modular dividers worth it?

Absolutely. As your lens collection grows, removable ICUs let you swap gear sets quickly. Explore how to customize a camera backpack with inserts (/how-to-customize-a-camera-backpack-with-inserts) for best results.

How do I avoid back pain on long hauls?

Prioritize packs with supportive hip belts, ventilated back panels, and balanced weight distribution like the F-Stop Kashmir 2 AIR. Also read how to prevent back pain when carrying camera gear (/how-to-prevent-back-pain-when-carrying-camera-gear).

Wrapping Up Your Selection

Choosing the right camera backpack comes down to your shooting style. Whether you need a minimal city stealth pack or a full-blown adventure hauler, you’ve got options that balance comfort, protection, and quick access.

Now that you’ve seen the top picks, pick the bag that matches your workflow and budget. Here’s to lighter loads, faster lens swaps, and more focus on capturing your next great shot.