Access

Whether you’re striding along smooth and easy trails or scrambling over rocky wilderness, having to stop and rummage for camera gear is frustrating. You’ll probably find yourself taking fewer photos if your gear is hard to reach, in which case what’s the point of hauling it all in the first place? When you’re eating up the miles you want to ensure that expended energy hauling gear is worth it. Having gear readily accessible makes it far more likely you’ll use it, and helps you get the shots you really want by having the right equipment close at hand. Different camera packs offer different kinds of access to suit different needs and environments. Front, back, side and top access are all options, so think about which ones are best for you. Additionally, a good mix of quick-access pockets are great for storing smaller, frequently used items such as camera accessories, snacks or a water bottle.

Protection

Camera equipment is often expensive and delicate – not a good combination when you’re entering demanding outdoor environments. Scrapes, bumps, accidental drops and the elements can all wreak havoc on your gear, so you want to ensure it’s adequately protected. Suitably padded storage spaces and dividers help provide shock absorption, while weatherproof construction helps keep the elements at bay.

Weatherproofing

As mentioned above, if you want suitable protection for your gear then you need to factor in weatherproof construction. Look for water-resistant materials and zippers, as well as raincovers for an additional barrier against rain and snow. Having different compartments for storing gear will allow you to access just what you need, which is handy when you want to shield the rest of your gear from inclement weather, grit, dirt and mud.

Organization

Photography can involve a lot of accessories, from additional lenses to memory cards and tech devices. Small items are easy to lose in the recesses of a pack, so having readily accessible pockets is important. Exterior attachment points for larger items such as tripods, skis, gear pouches and other items will also help you tailor your carry setup to different photography missions.

Extra Storage

Additionally, if you’re hiking you’re going to need space for personal and outdoor items such as snacks, water, maps, an extra outer layer, a first aid kit and more. Make sure the packs you are considering offer sufficient extra storage space for this gear.

Comfort

Camera gear is heavy. Add on top of that your personal gear and you could find yourself hauling a significant amount of weight. Combine that with a full day of hiking (or even a few hours) and things can get pretty uncomfortable, pretty fast. A camera backpack that distributes the weight across both shoulders and your waist is a must. Wider shoulder straps offer better weight distribution, and you’re going to want sufficient padding in the straps and waist belt for maximized user comfort, especially on longer hikes and for larger loads. Additionally, good ventilation is an important consideration too, as carrying all that gear over extended distances can be tiring, sweaty work.

Material & Construction

As touched on previously, look for water-resistant materials that offer protection against the elements. However, they should also be durable and abrasion resistant, with a tough pack construction that will hold up to the strain of hauling heavy gear for long periods of time in demanding environments. You may have to lay your pack on rocky ground, you might accidentally scrape against branches and rock faces, or potentially have to sling your bag in and out of cars and overhead luggage compartments in the quest to get to your destination. A tough build and durable materials will ensure your pack can handle the journey.

Lowepro DSLR Video Fastpack 350 AW (US$ 89.99)

Lowepro’s DSLR Video Fastpack 350 AW is a versatile pack that can handle a variety of equipment, including a DSLR with an attached lens (up to 70-200mm f/2.8), a 17″ laptop, a tripod and audio equipment. The pack also includes a removable audio pouch, a raincover for protection against the elements, and side access to quickly reach your camera.

Ruggard Alpine 600 Lens Backpack for DSLR and 600/800mm Lens (US$ 118.96)

The Ruggard Alpine 600 Lens Backpack is a handy option if you need to carry an 800mm lens with hood or a DSLR with a 600mm lens attached. The pack includes a range of useful interior and exterior pockets for storing accessories and EDC items, along with a raincover and tripod attachment points. There’s also a whistle integrated into the sternum strap and a comfortable padded harness and waist belt.

Manfrotto Off road Hiker Backpack (US$ 119.88)

The adaptable Manfrotto Off road Hiker Backpack features a removable photo insert and modular dividers to suit changing loads, with quick side access keeping your camera at the ready. The bag fits a DSLR with a 70-200mm/2.8 lens, with additional space for extra lenses and accessories, personal items and snacks. Tripod attachment points and a raincover are included too. And with its flexible design, this 30L pack also doubles as a regular hiking pack by removing the padded insert and dividers.

MindShift Gear rotation180° Trail 16L (US$ 119.99)

Ever missed a great photo opportunity because you couldn’t access your gear fast enough? This pack takes care of that problem with its innovative rotating beltpack which provides ready access to items without having to take the backpack off. The beltpack can also be worn separately for more minimalist carry setups. This pack is a good option for a compact DSLR or mirrorless camera, with additional space for a hydration bladder, personal items, snacks, small accessories and an 8″ tablet.

Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 350 AW Backpack (US$ 169.95)

The Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 350 AW finds a good balance between camera and outdoor gear carry, with dedicated storage space for photography equipment and personal items. Camera gear can be accessed through the back panel without having to put the pack on the ground, with sufficient space for a DSLR with attached lens and 1-2 extra lenses. In addition, multiple exterior attachment points let you tailor carry setups to changing needs.

Tamrac Anvil 17 Pro Camera Backpack (US$ 189.95)

Like lots of organization options? The Tamrac Anvil 17 delivers, with multiple compartments for camera gear and a 15″ laptop, along with plenty of pockets and attachment points for accessories, a tripod and EDC items. The clamshell main compartment provides ready access to camera gear throughout, with customizable dividers to protect different setups.

Pelican U160 Urban Elite Half Case Camera Pack (US$ 199.95)

Going into demanding environments with your camera gear in tow? If you need rugged and crushproof carry protection, look to the Pelican U160 Urban Elite Half Case Camera Pack. The pack offers separate storage for camera and personal gear, with a bright interior camera case for added visibility of the contents. The waterproof and crushproof case fits a DSLR with attached lens, an additional lens, and a flash. A mix of interior and exterior pockets come in handy for storing small accessories and EDC or outdoor essentials, and concealable tripod straps let you secure a tripod externally.

Mountainsmith x Chris Burkard Tanuck 40L (US$ 229.95)

Mountainsmith and Chris Burkard teamed up to create a versatile, durable and functional pack that could adapt to diverse environments and needs. The result is the Tanuck 40L, a rugged and weather-resistant pack that offers front-access storage for your camera gear, a dedicated 17″ laptop compartment and top-loading storage for personal items. The pack is compatible with Kit Cubes (sold separately) and is self-standing for easier packing and access. A host of pockets and attachment points let you keep items tidy and within easy reach, and the removable top lid can convert into a chest mount for fast access to a camera on the go.

Clik Elite Stratus (US$ 230)

Want a camera pack that doesn’t look like a camera pack? The Clik Elite Stratus is designed to look like a traditional hiking pack in order to avoid unwanted attention and help protect your expensive equipment from prying eyes. The back panel provides access to camera gear, while the top-loading compartment is handy for storing outdoor essentials and personal items. A ClikDraw camera gear loop and anchor points keep your camera securely attached to the pack and within easy reach when needed, while quick-access pockets keep frequently needed items at the ready.

f-stop Lotus (US$ 239)

Highly weather-resistant and durable enough to embrace a range of outdoor environments, the 32L Lotus is well suited to day-long shoots and accommodates a range of f-stop ICUs (sold separately) to organize your camera gear. The back panel provides access to camera equipment, with further storage and a host of pockets for personal gear and accessories. The pack is hydration bladder compatible and also allows additional bulky items to be secured externally.

MindShift Gear BackLight 26L (US$ 249.99)

Worried about mud, dirt, snow or puddles getting on your bag and gear? The Mindshift Gear BackLight 26L offers a nifty solution. The pack features back panel access and can be spun round while the waist strap is attached in order to get to gear without having to lay the bag on the ground. The back panel access also helps thwart opportunistic thieves while traveling. The pack fits a DSLR, along with 4-6 lenses and a flash. There’s also dedicated space for a 15″ laptop and a tablet, along with a range of pockets for organizing accessories and EDC.

f-stop Ajna (US$ 259)

The durable and weatherproof Ajna moves easily from snow to sun, with a 40L volume that accommodates a variety of gear setups. The pack offers back panel access to your camera gear, while a mix of pockets and attachment points keep accessories and personal items tidy and easily accessible. The Ajna is compatible with a range of f-stop ICU units (sold separately) to protect your camera equipment, and can secure a tripod, snowboard or other bulky items externally.

Clik Elite Escape 2.0 (US$ 279)

The Clik Elite Escape 2.0 packs plenty of useful features into its versatile design. Dual full-length zippers can be opened partially for access to specific gear while protecting the rest of the contents in poor weather. Alternatively open them fully for easy access to all your gear. Your camera can be kept at the ready through Clik Elite’s ClikDraw system featuring a camera tether and padded loop hip holster. Rounding things off are a tripod holder, multiple pockets, a hydration sleeve and a raincover.

Lowepro Whistler BP 450 AW (US$ 299.95)

Comfortable, weather-resistant and tough, the Lowepro Whistler BP 450 AW adapts easily to a range of environments and includes storage for camera equipment and outdoor essentials. Back panel access keeps camera gear secure on the move and away from rain, sand, snow and dirt. The pack is designed to fit a pro DSLR, 3 lenses, a flash and a GoPro or similar, and includes a removable insert. A choice of pockets and attachment points provide organization for smaller items and secure the likes of a tripod, snowboard or ice tools.

Lowepro Pro Trekker 450 AW Camera and Laptop Backpack (US$ 379)

The Lowepro Pro Trekker 450 AW is a durable and comfortable pack featuring Lowepro’s ActivLift System harness. Ideal for large loads and long days of shooting, the pack fits 1-2 pro DSLRs (with a 400mm f/2.8 lens attached to one), as well as 4-6 extra lenses, two flashes, a 15″ laptop, a 2L hydration bladder and personal items. And if you just need a minimalist load, the backpack lid can be detached to form a waist pack for carrying the essentials.

MindShift Gear rotation180° Professional (US$ 389.99)

If you’re keen on MindShift Gear’s rotating beltpack but need more space than the 16L rotation180° Trail offers, this pack is a great larger alternative. With a volume of 37.5L you have plenty of space for camera equipment, personal items and a hydration bladder, with a removable tripod sling and a raincover for added functionality.

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So, in recent times, many a brand has thought outside the box (or the bag) and dreamt up solutions for those keen to shoot light and bag-free. Below are some of the awesome ones that have caught our eye. 

Olympus CS-35 Wrapping Cloth For OM-D

Designed to carry an Olympus OM‑D or PEN camera without removing the lens, this lightweight wrapping cloth features a water-repellent exterior surface to protect your camera from the elements. As an added bonus, the interior surface can serve as a cleaning cloth.

Leica Soft Nappa Leather Pouch for D-Lux 6 Digital Camera

If you’re after a chic and simple carry option, this sleek pouch crafted from nappa leather is a stylish choice. The interior pocket accommodates the Leica D-Lux 6 and the wrap-around design with tie-strap closure provides easy and elegant protection against dust and unexpected showers.

Skooba Design SkoobaWrap Kit

This versatile kit contains two medium wraps (each measuring 16″ x 16″) and one small wrap (measuring 12″ x 12″). Thanks to touch-fastening fabric at the corners, the wraps can be rolled and folded in a variety of ways to suit a range of items such as cameras, lenses, tablets, phones, sunglasses and more. There’s also a 1/8-inch thick foam interlining to help protect your gear against scrapes and bumps. See them in action here.

miggo Strap&Wrap DSLR

A camera strap and protective case in one. Intrigued? Well that’s exactly what you get with miggo’s Strap&Wrap DSLR. The clever design allows you to securely carry your camera across your torso, with a safety cord attaching the camera to the strap. Once you’ve finished using your camera, the strap can be wrapped around it to provide protection while carrying the camera in a bag. The design suits most small to medium DSLR and bridge cameras and includes a convenient lens cap pocket.

miggo Grip&Wrap DSLR

If the above sounds great but you prefer using wrist straps with your camera, turn your focus to the miggo Grip&Wrap DSLR. Doubling as a wrist strap and protective case, the Grip&Wrap can be adjusted to fit your wrist and wraps around your camera to provide protection against knocks and scrapes when not in use. Plus there’s a pocket for your lens cap to avoid the frustration of misplacing it.

Clik Elite Probody Camera Wrap

If you want a bit of extra padding in your camera bag or you plan to use a non-camera-specific bag, this padded neoprene wrap offers straightforward camera protection that won’t weigh you down. Its stretch design affords some flexibility for accommodating gear, with Velcro closure. Check out these videos to see it in use.

Tenba Messenger Wrap

Like the SkoobaWrap, the Tenba Messenger Wrap can be folded and rolled in numerous ways to provide protection for camera equipment, tech devices and any other items you want to keep safe and secure on the go (or even while stored at home). The corners are secured in place using Velcro, and a choice of colors and sizes help you easily identify and store your gear.

NEPPT Camera Bag Insert Case

Got a favorite bag you’d love to carry your camera gear in but it doesn’t offer protection for your precious cargo? This case bridges the gap between go-to bag and camera bag. The padded liner provides shock and scratch protection and the padded divider can be adjusted or removed depending on the contents. Simply load the case up, place it inside your bag of choice and you’re good to go.

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[Last updated August 2019]

Canon Deluxe Backpack 200 EG (US$ 39.95)

Another wallet-friendly option that fits one to two DSLRs and three to four lenses, with further storage for accessories or personal items. The water-repellent pack also holds a tripod externally.

Case Logic DCB-309 SLR Camera Backpack (US$ 58.99)

Affordable and versatile, this pack features customizable interior organization and fits an SLR with attached lens and two to three extra lenses. Exterior and interior pockets accommodate additional accessories and personal items, including a padded laptop sleeve for your tech. Plus a raincover adds protection when the storm clouds start rolling in.

Manfrotto Street Camera and Laptop Backpack (US$ 139.88)

Merging form and function, this pack is designed to hold your gear safely and in style. The bag provides dedicated space for a DSLR or CSC camera with an attached zoom lens, as well as two additional lenses and some extra accessories. A tripod can be carried externally, and there’s also space for a 15″ laptop and personal items such as a phone, wallet and keys.

Pacsafe Camsafe V17 Anti-Theft Camera Backpack (US$ 139.95)

The Pacsafe Camsafe V17 Anti-Theft Camera Backpack combines easy access with discreet security features such as lockable zippers, eXomesh slashguard, an RFID-blocking pocket and Carrysafe Slashguard strap. The top compartment is handy for storing personal items, while the removable camera compartment can be accessed conveniently from the side. The pack also offers a rear sleeve that fits up to a 13″ laptop or can double as hydration bladder storage.

Incase DSLR Pro Pack (US$ 149)

The sleek city-friendly styling of this pack isn’t going to attract unnecessary attention and alert people to its contents, a feature photographers are sure to appreciate when hauling expensive equipment. The external pockets are useful for quick-access items such as cables, chargers and EDC, while internal padded sections for a laptop and iPad will keep your tech protected. Camera gear is accessed through the back of the pack by unzipping the back panel clamshell-style, along with top access for your most frequently used gear.

Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW (US$ 149)

The ProTactic 350 AW is a feature-rich pack that offers four access points for conveniently and quickly getting to gear. It can hold one to two cameras and up to six additional lenses. There’s also space for a 13″ laptop, tripod attachment points, a raincover and a removable waistbelt. For further functionality the pack also includes five modular accessories to tailor your carry to changing needs.

Lowepro Pro Runner BP 350 AW II (US$ 157.95)

When you need to carry a little extra gear but still in a bag that’s compact enough for carry-on purposes, the Pro Runner BP 350 AW II will do the trick. The pack holds a DSLR with attached lens, four to five additional lenses, and a range of tech including a 13″ laptop, 10″ tablet and a Wacom type tablet. A choice of pockets as well as a removable accessory case keep smaller items organized, while the waistbelt boosts user comfort for heavier loads or can be removed when not required.

Chrome Niko Pack Backpack (US$ 169.95)

Customizable interior organization, top and front access and multiple pockets makes the Niko Pack Backpack a handy hauler for a range of camera setups. The weatherproof construction helps keep your precious kit safe from the elements, while exterior straps secure a tripod and an interior padded sleeve fits a 15″ laptop.

*This pack has now been updated to the Niko F-Stop

WANDRD PRVKE Pack (from US$ 184)

Available in two sizes (21L and 31L), the versatile WANDRD PRVKE Pack serves as a camera bag, EDC bag or travel bag depending on your needs. Three access points make it easy to reach your gear, from the rolltop and clamshell access to the quick side camera access so you don’t miss that great shot. The bag can be paired with an optional WANDRD camera cube (or you can use your own) and there’s plenty of pockets to organize camera accessories, small EDC and travel items. The durable, weather-resistant construction embraces urban and outdoor settings alike, while the comfy build helps support the load on the go.

Burton F-Stop Camera Backpack (US$ 193.99)

Burton are all about boarding so it should be no surprise that you can attach a snowboard to this pack. Alternatively, slot in a tripod instead or use the straps for attaching other items such as a jacket. There’s no shortage of internal or external pockets for keeping everything in its right place, including a handy insulated pocket, and the internal camera compartment has adjustable padded dividers to suit different gear setups. The camera compartment also has a convenient detachable cover to help keep your equipment protected without needing to zip the bag up, so you can access it quickly as needed. The pack’s adjustable harness also comes in useful for accommodating different users’ torso lengths. Check out our road test for more details.

f-stop Loka UL (US$ 199)

The Loka UL is aimed at photographers who want to remain agile on the go without carrying a heavy bag. Weighing in at just 1.2kg, the 37L pack provides top and rear access, plus abrasion-resistant and weather-resistant construction to handle a range of adventures.

Langly Alpha Pro (US$ 199)

Flexible storage makes the Alpha Pro a handy option for carrying camera gear and some personal items. The pack holds an SLR and up to four additional lenses, with space for extra gear such as a laptop, outer layer, and camera accessories. The attractive aesthetics and sturdy build also make this a versatile pack for alternating between urban and outdoor settings.

Thule Covert DSLR Rolltop Backpack (US$ 199.95)

Thule’s Covert DSLR Rolltop Backpack deftly handles photography and day-to-day carry needs thanks to a highly adaptable design. The removable camera pod keeps photography gear safe and easily accessible through a side opening. There’s also a zip-out divider allowing you to alternate between two compartments or one main compartment as required. And with plenty of pockets and dedicated storage for a laptop and tablet, your gear will stay tidy and at the ready whenever you need it.

MindShift Gear rotation180° Panorama (US$ 199.99)

Having to take your pack off to access your camera equipment is far from ideal – more often than not, that awesome shot opportunity is long gone by the time you’ve got your gear. MindShift Gear’s rotation180° Panorama prioritizes quick access through a nifty rotating design that enables you to swing the beltpack out from the main body of the pack in order to access the contents quickly, without needing to take the pack off. Check out our drive by for more details.

Manfrotto Pro Light Bumblebee-220 PL (MB PL-B-220) Backpack ($213.19)

Plenty of pocketing, modular dividers, external tripod attachment, a dedicated laptop compartment, a rain cover, stowaway shoulder straps and a choice of full access to the main compartment or half access to the top or bottom of the contents while keeping the other half unexposed – the Bumblebee is buzzing with convenient features all packed in a sleekly stylish design.

f-stop Lotus (~US$ 220)

With its compact form and comfortable suspension, the Lotus works just as well in crowded urban settings as it does in the outdoors. The 32L volume is a handy size for everyday or overnight use, with rear panel access keeping camera gear safe on the go.

Dakine Reload 30L (US$ 229.95)

The front panel of the Reload 30L can be laid out flat to give easy access to the camera gear in the main compartment, with a range of internal and external zipped pockets for keeping small items in order. The pack’s padded laptop section accommodates 17-inch laptops, while the front and side straps can be used for tripod carry – or strap a snowboard on the front and a tripod on the side if you’re planning to shoot sweet shots in the snow.

Vinta S-Series Travel Camera Backpack (US$ 249)

The Vinta S-Series Travel Camera Backpack adapts to casual and more formal environments alike, with a sleek and durable design that can roam the city streets or further afield if required. The removable inserts can be tailored to suit changing gear needs, with a removable Field Pack also included for further organization. The bag fits up to a 15″ laptop and offers a choice of top and back access for conveniently and quickly getting to your gear.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack (from US$ 259.95)

Peak Design’s innovative Everyday Backpack excels in both everyday and photography use. FlexFold dividers and a variety of pockets let you easily organize gear on the go, complemented by dual side access and top access. The pack can expand when you need to carry a little extra, and comes in 20L and 30L options. Smart enough for the office and tough enough for outdoor use, the bag includes a durable weatherproof build and one-handed closure system for versatile and convenient use.

Tamrac Anvil 27 Pro Camera Backpack (US$ 269.95)

The Tamrac Anvil 27 Pro Camera Backpack offers a range of features to keep gear within easy reach, including a wide-opening clamshell-style main compartment, dedicated laptop compartment, and quick-access exterior pockets. A tripod can be securely attached to the exterior of the bag, and the included raincover provides handy protection against the elements.

Filson Photographer’s Backpack (US$ 299.99)

If you need a camera backpack that doesn’t advertise the fact you’re carrying expensive camera equipment, Filson’s Photographer’s Backpack is a suitably understated choice. Padded construction and internal dividers keep your gear safe and the zip to the pack’s padded top section and laptop sleeve is concealed to help dissuade opportunistic thieves.

Lowepro Pro Trekker 450 AW Camera and Laptop Backpack (US$ 379.95)

The Lowepro Pro Trekker 450 AW is a comfortable and durable choice when you need to carry large loads. The pack includes an adjustable harness for a more tailored fit, front-loading access with adjustable dividers, a stowable tripod holder, laptop sleeve, and hydration-ready side pocket. In addition, the lid can be removed and worn as a waistpack for carrying the essentials.

ILE Ultimate Photographers Bag-MKIII (US$ 380)

Inside Line Equipment’s Ultimate Photographers Bag-MKIII merges everyday carry with camera carry, featuring a dedicated weatherproof camera compartment with adjustable dividers, a quick-access front pocket for items such as cables or chargers and a rolltop main section for clothing, food and other personal items. A padded section on the back is large enough for a 17-inch laptop, while tripods and light stands can be carried using the side compression straps and pockets, and external webbing allows additional gear to be attached as needed.

Tamrac G Elite G32 (US$ 399.95)

The flexible and protective butterfly access in this pack makes it a great choice for photography in restrictive spaces or inclement weather. Adjustable interior organization accommodates a variety of gear setups, while a tripod and other accessories can be attached to the exterior of the pack.

ONA Camps Bay Camera Backpack (US$ 409)

The understated ONA Camps Bay Camera Backpack is a great option for photographers who want to carry camera gear in low-key style. The pack helps avoid unwanted attention, while offering configurable organization for a DSLR with attached lens as well as up to seven extra lenses, a 17″ laptop and personal items.

ONA Clifton Camera Backpack (US$ 499)

A premium offering from ONA, the Clifton Camera Backpack offers chic style with handcrafted full-grain leather construction. The pack fits up to a 13″ laptop, with removable inserts to keep camera gear safe on the move. Use the bag as a camera pack or take out the inserts to convert it into a stylish everyday bag for work or play.

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*If there’s a piece you love and you think it deserves consideration, let us know in the comments below. 

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