Best Camera Backpacks With Quick Access Side Doors

If you’re hunting for the best camera backpacks with quick-access side doors, you’ve come to the right place. Side-entry panels let you grab your camera, change lenses, or swap batteries without unpacking the whole bag. In this friendly review, we’ll compare top side-access packs, dive into three standout models, and walk you through picking the right one for your shooting style.

What you’ll get here

• Quick overview of side-entry backpack features
• In-depth reviews of three top models
• Buyer’s guide on key side-access factors
• Tips to use side doors like a pro

Compare Side-Access Packs

Model	Capacity	Price	Side-Access Feature
Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L	20 L	$220	270-degree wrap-around zipper for quick access
Shimoda Action X50 V2	50 L	$350	Underarm side flap with magnetic closure
Nomatic McKinnon 35L	35 L	$331	Side laptop compartment zipper

Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L

The Everyday Zip 20L is our top pick if you want speed without bulk. With its signature 270-degree wrap-around zipper, you can swing the bag around, pop it open, and reach your camera gear in seconds.

Key Features

• FlexFold dividers let you customize interior layout
• Magnetic pouches for small accessories
• Zippered laptop sleeve fits up to a 16″ laptop
• Durable nylon canvas shell with DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• Ultralight design at just over 3 lbs

Pros and Cons

• Pros
• Lightning-fast access from any angle
• Sleek, streamlined look
• Weather resistance protects gear in light rain
• Cons
• Limited capacity for longer trips
• Side-zip can snag if overloaded

Who It’s For

This pack shines when you need to move fast—street shooters, event photographers, or anyone who hates slow zipper dives. If you often hop on public transit or chase the golden hour, this side-entry hail-Mary is clutch.

Shimoda Action X50 V2

If you haul heavy loads for extended adventures, the Shimoda Action X50 V2 brings side-access convenience plus serious comfort. It’s built for outdoor photographers and offers an underarm side flap that stays secure with magnets.

Key Features

• Extra-wide padded shoulder straps and hip belt
• Four adjustable torso height settings
• Roll-top expandable camera compartment
• Magnetic side flap for quick gear grabs
• Ski carry straps, water bottle pockets, helmet holder

Pros and Cons

• Pros
• Superb weight distribution reduces fatigue (see how to prevent back pain when carrying camera gear)
• Expandable roll-top fits tripods or extra layers
• Durable build holds up on rugged trails
• Cons
• Bulkier profile in urban settings
• Premium price tag

Who It’s For

Mountaineers, wildlife shooters, or anyone packing cinema lenses and drones into the great outdoors. If you need side-door access mid-hike or want to clip on gear outside, this pack has your back.

Nomatic McKinnon 35L

The Nomatic McKinnon 35L blends travel and camera needs with a distinct side panel that houses your laptop. While its main camera hub is top-loading, the side entry gives you fast computer access—ideal for on-the-go editing.

Key Features

• Two main compartments: camera gear hub and luggage hub
• Separate side computer compartment fits up to a 16″ MacBook Pro
• Waterproof zippers and film-laminated ripstop fabric
• Compression-molded EVA back panel with hip harness
• Multiple mesh zipper pockets for cords, cards, and batteries

Pros and Cons

• Pros
• Streamlined travel carry that doubles as a camera gear bag
• Exceptional water resistance (read more on what to look for in a waterproof camera backpack)
• Organized accessory pockets prevent cord tangles
• Cons
• No direct side-entry to the camera compartment
• Can feel tight when both hubs are fully packed

Who It’s For

Frequent flyers and hybrid shooters who edit on a laptop between flights. You’ll appreciate the quick side-door laptop access and the camera hub’s solid protection when you hit the ground.

Choose Your Side-Access Pack

Picking the perfect side-entry backpack means weighing gear access against comfort, capacity, and protection. Here are the core factors to consider:

Gear Access Style

• Panel Type: Full wrap-around zippers (Peak Design) open wide, underarm flaps (Shimoda) hide magnetics
• Number of Doors: More entry points let you reach different pockets without spinning around
• Divider Layout: Customizable inserts make side-entry even faster—check out the best camera backpack layouts for fast access

Comfort and Fit

• Harness Support: Padded straps and hip belts distribute weight
• Torso Adjustments: Custom fit prevents shoulder strain
• Ventilation: Mesh back panels reduce sweat

Storage and Capacity

• Volume Needs: Day shoots vs extended trips
• Laptop and Tablet: Dedicated sleeves or side compartments
• External Pockets: Quick stow for water bottles, tripods (see how to carry a tripod using a camera backpack)

Durability and Protection

• Material: Ripstop nylon, weather-proof coatings, reinforced stitching
• Zippers: Waterproof or water-resistant seals
• Rain Covers: Built-in or add-on options (learn more about weatherproofing tips for your camera backpack)

Tips for Side Door Use

Side-access is a game-changer, but only if you set it up right. Try these tricks:

1. Arrange dividers so your primary lens sits by the door
2. Keep frequently used accessories in magnetic pouches or stash pockets
3. Lock zippers with a small padlock when traveling
4. Practice one-handed retrieval so you’re ready when the shot arrives

FAQs

What makes side access better than top loading?

Side-entry means you don’t have to take your pack off or empty it out to reach a camera body or lens. It’s faster, less disruptive, and preserves your shooting flow.

Are side-access backpacks less secure?

Not necessarily. Many models use magnetics or lockable zippers. If you’re in crowded places, check our camera backpack safety tips for crowded places for extra peace of mind.

Can I fit a drone in a side-entry pack?

Yes, certain packs like the Shimoda Action X50 V2 and Peak Design Everyday Zip can hold a DJI Mini 3 Pro in their main compartment. For detailed packing advice, peek at tips for packing a drone and camera together safely.

How do I clean a side-entry backpack?

Spot-clean with mild soap and water. Always remove inserts before washing, and air-dry fully. For deep maintenance, see our guide on how to clean and maintain a camera backpack.

Do side-access zippers leak in heavy rain?

Water resistance depends on zipper type and fabric. Look for DWR coatings and sealed seams. A rain cover or pack with built-in rain protection adds an extra layer if you shoot outdoors often.

Conclusion

Side-entry camera backpacks let you grab your gear in a flash, whether you’re weaving through urban crowds or trekking to a mountain overlook. The Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L and Shimoda Action X50 V2 deliver top-notch access plus robust features for different shooting styles. And if you need a hybrid travel bag, the Nomatic McKinnon 35L’s side laptop door is hard to beat.

Now that you know what to look for—from access style to comfort—pick the pack that fits how and where you shoot. Happy snapping, and may your next bag upgrade keep you one step ahead of the perfect shot.