Camera backpacks need to satisfy a lot of your requirements: they need to have comfortable straps along with easy access to your equipment and sufficient security for your camera equipment. If you’re searching for the best camera backpack for travel, you have to realize that each photographer has different requirements. There are even a dedicated DSLR camera bag, a camera bag more suited for women, and a camera backpack for hiking. In this guide, you’ll get a lot of tips and details about what constitutes the right travel camera backpack and what makes a good investment.
Others also have the potential to swing around on a belt, as well as being incredibly sturdy and waterproof, allowing you easy access to your camera gear so you can be sure to never miss a shot. To most adventurers, a backpack is much more than a way of lugging around your supplies, it would be the bag that goes with you on some of your most life-changing journeys. Finding a backpack that will be with you every step of the way is important.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 11 hrs of research
Peak Design Everyday Camera Backpack – Premium Pick
Why is it better?
- Solid construction & durable materials
- Actually useful divider system
- Versatile, you don’t need to be a photographer to get a lot out of this bag
- The key tether keeps keys in place yet out of sight
AmazonBasics Travel Backpack for SLR/DSLR Camera – Best Value
Why is it better?
- Completely customizable padded insert configuration
- It has two zippered compartments to store things like batteries, compasses, remotes, etc.
- The inside is very padded
- Good exterior mounting options
Best Camera Backpacks for Travel – Overview
When you fine-tune your skills as a photographer and start collecting a range of lenses and accessories, you will quickly find that a camera bag is utterly necessary for you to achieve the shots you want while you’re on the photography spot. We’ve put together this guide to the best camera backpacks for travel to help you choose and provide you with a detailed guide on how to choose a camera backpack as well.
Camera Backpacks for Travel Reviews
1. Peak Design Everyday Camera Backpack – Premium Pick
Built for the imaginative and active individual, Peak Design Everyday Camera Backpack has been built to secure and stretch comfortably to fit a range of gears. The 20L Everyday was designed to accommodate a full 3-4-lens frame of a DSLR. This pack also has a dedicated laptop compartment.
It is possible to mount three FlexFold contact fastening dividers to build cubbies and pass-throughs to cover a range of camera and lens configurations and other forms of gears. If you find yourself bringing extra clothes, the MagLatch system helps you to extend your bag. Two outer side pockets and a compression strap will hold a tripod, cover, or water bottle secured attached to your backpack. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best edc backpacks.
Key Features:
- Protected laptop sleeve/pocket holds laptops up to 16″
- 3 Flexfold Dividers protect cameras, drones, and lenses
- Waterproof 400D nylon canvas shell
- Exterior & sub-divided Interior pockets
Specifications:
- Brand: Peak Design
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 13″ W x 7.75″ D
- Weight: 2.9 lbs
- Solid construction & durable materials
- Actually useful divider system
- Versatile, you don’t need to be a photographer to get a lot out of this bag
- The key tether keeps keys in place yet out of sight
- Price is on the expensive side
2. PRVKE Travel and DSLR Camera Backpack for Travel
The PRVKE Travel and DSLR Camera Backpack for Travel innovative design and high-quality materials make it an award-winning camera bag. This travel camera backpack is perfect for photography, travel, and daily use. It has been featured in and recommended by Forbes, USA Today, and National Geographic. Magnetic tote handles make grabbing and carrying your bag simple no matter the situation.
Built out of durable and water-resistant tarpaulin and ballistic nylon so you never have to worry about your gear. Quickdraw side access quick and easy access to your camera or any gear you might need. The roll-top gives you quick access to the personal items in your bag. It also expands to create an extra 5 liters of space when you need it. Whether you are taking your camera gear or leaving it at home, the customizable and removable camera cube makes this the perfect bag for every lifestyle.
Key Features:
- 3 point of access
- Built out of durable and water-resistant tarpaulin and ballistic nylon
- Passport pocket
- Sleek and minimal, urban-inspired design
Specifications:
- Brand: WANDRD
- Capacity: 31L
- Dimensions: 19″ H x 16″ W x 5″ D
- Weight: 5.3 lbs
- The camera cube is a good size for a decent kit
- The little zipper pocket where the passport goes is hidden from the nefarious characters in the world but so easy and fast to get at when necessary
- The expandability of this feature was also great when needing to tuck away souvenirs
- The handy side-access opening to the camera storage is useful
- The water bottle pocket zips up on the side keeping it out of the way, but it would be nice if it was a bit bigger and more durable
3. AmazonBasics Travel Backpack for SLR/DSLR Camera – Best Value
The AmazonBasics Travel Backpack for SLR/DSLR Camera has room for all your photography equipment. The best feature is the main compartment with its adjustable cells that will accommodate your unique group of accessories. This roomy backpack has plenty of pouches, zippered pockets, compartments, and straps to secure all of your camera equipment-big or small.
The outside of the backpack has two side pockets with flaps (great for keys, cell phone, and MP3 player) and two large zippered pockets (great for manuals, notebooks, or even a light jacket or rain poncho). The side straps and flexible cord on the front can hold a compact tripod or umbrella. The inside of the main compartment cover features two clear plastic zippered pockets for storing small items like batteries, memory cards, and USB drives.
Key Features:
- Adjustable, padded compartments for ultimate protection
- Lots of pockets, pouches, and compartments for all your gear
- Waist, chest, and heavily padded shoulder straps for comfortable carrying
- Large size allows for all the extras you need on your photo adventure
Specifications:
- Brand: AmazonBasics
- Capacity: 31L
- Dimensions: 15″ H x 11″ W x 6″ D
- Weight: 1.96 lbs
- Completely customizable padded insert configuration
- It has two zippered compartments to store things like batteries, compasses, remotes, etc.
- The inside is very padded
- Good exterior mounting options
- Not a lot of outside padding to protect your equipment or a laptop if you store it in the top compartment
4. Manfrotto Advanced Befree Travel Backpack for DSLR/CSC Cameras
The Manfrotto Advanced Befree Travel Backpack for DSLR/CSC Cameras fits the standard to fit as carry-on luggage. This bag comes with the option and proper connections to attach your tripod externally. The custom-designed dividers have the option to fold out of the way when needed or to be pulled out to protect your equipment in special situations.
These interchangeable dividers allow you to custom fit the inside of your bag around your gear by creating the exact size compartment for your gear. This bag comes with a special internal compartment to carry your tripod internally. Protect your laptop during transport in the compartment. The included fold-out protector which when installed creates a barrier between the wet outside and dry inside of your bag.
Key Features:
- Rain cover
- Rear access for your camera and lens
- Holds a 15″ laptop and 9.7″ tablet
- Fits a medium level DSLR with 70/200 mm f/2.8 lens attached
- Befree Advanced Tripod stays protected in expandable side pocket
Specifications:
- Brand: Manfrotto
- Dimensions: 17″ H x 12″ W x 12″ D
- Weight: 3 lbs
- The webbing for the backpack and hip straps are barely an inch wide but made of very high-quality material
- The design is very discreet
- The rain cover came stuffed inside the top pocket’s mesh pouch
- There are almost no sewn-in loops for accessories on the outside, which really makes it stealthy
- The outermost side pouches may not fit a water bottle once the zippered side pouches have been filled up
5. Lowepro Pro Runner BP 450 AW II DSLR Camera Backpack for Travel
The Lowepro Pro Runner BP 450 AW II DSLR Camera Backpack for Travel features padded, touch-fastening dividers for storing two Pro DSLR cameras with an attached 70-200mm 2. 8 or 300mm lens, 5-6 extra lenses, Speedlight’s, and various accessories. Padded sleeves inside the front, zippered compartment holds an up to 15″ laptop, and a 10″ tablet. Compression straps with quick-release buckles on the front of the backpack are used for securing a pro-sized tripod. The YKK locking zippers function smoothly and have fabric pulls for easy opening.
Also inside this compartment is a zippered, clear-mesh pocket for cables and related items. Cradle Fit construction suspends and protects your valuable gear from bumps and contact with the ground during transport. At the bottom of the main compartment is a useful, removable accessory case for your hard drives, cords, and other small items. Numerous interior and exterior pockets accommodate a wide variety of gear, and help keep your backpack free of clutter and well organized.
Key Features:
- Padded, touch-fastening dividers
- Zippered, clear-mesh pocket for cables
- Cradle Fit construction
- YKK locking zippers
- Adjustable shoulder straps
Specifications:
- Brand: Lowepro
- Dimensions: 19.49″ H x 13.7″ W x 7.09″ D
- Weight: 6.40 lbs
- The straps and padding work really well
- It easily fits in the overhead compartment on an airplane
- The internal dividers are easy to adjust
- The handles on the top and side make it easy to carry
- With two bodies, in the top and bottom of the bag, the fit is really snug on the side with the camera grip
6. AmazonBasics DSLR Camera and Laptop Backpack for Travel
The AmazonBasics DSLR Camera and Laptop Backpack for Travel was designed to hold your photo and editing tools while on the move. The backpack features a customizable interior to hold and protect 2 SLR camera bodies, 3-4 lenses, 17-inch laptop, and additional smaller accessories.
When you travel with your computer, there is no need to bring an additional bag or sleeve. The padded interior features a separate interior space that is able to hold 17-inch MacBook Pros and other laptops. No matter what equipment you use, the removable interior of the AmazonBasics backpack can be adjusted to fit multiple DSLR bodies, lenses, and accessories. The bag also features adjustable straps on the exterior to attach and carry a tripod.
Key Features:
- Customizable padded interior
- Movable dividers allow for optimal storage
- Side straps secure tripods or other bulky accessories
Specifications:
- Brand: AmazonBasics
- Dimensions: 18″ H x 13″ W x 9″ D
- Weight: 3.09 lbs
- You can move the velcro pieces around for different setups
- Excellent outer fabric – durable and attractive
- Dual zipper pulls on all zippers
- Straps and back are well padded
- The laptop compartment zippers can open if not zipped to one side or the other
7. USA GEAR DSLR Camera Backpack for Travel
The USA GEAR DSLR Camera Backpack for Travel is one of the best value camera backpacks with features normally found only on more expensive camera packs. Tons of customizable storage space, top compartment to fit your phone, charger and many other accessories. Ditch the boxy, bulky packs. This pack offers plenty of room for the serious photographer as well as the enthusiast without an oversized form factor.
Side door allows you to grab your camera quickly while keeping the rest of your equipment safe so you don’t miss a shot. Quality metal zippers that stay shut when you close them. Tuck-away shoulder straps allow you to wear the bag on one or both shoulders! Stow away unnecessary straps into the luggage handle slot. A waist strap is also included for weight management and comfort.
Key Features:
- Padded dividers
- Padded laptop compartment
- Reinforced zippers with non-slip soft rubber pullers
- Side camera access
Specifications:
- Brand: USA Gear
- Dimensions: 18″ H x 12″ W x 8″ D
- Weight: 2.36 lbs
- More pockets than you can imagine
- A soft foam backing where a persons body would meet the backpack-therefore crating comfort if a laptop where carried
- Secure shoulder straps that feel more like shoulder harnesses than flimsy foam
- Easy access with a side and front zipper
- The zippers don’t even have rings on them for any sort of lock, in terms of security
8. Thule Covert DSLR Rolltop Backpack for Travel
The Thule Covert DSLR Rolltop Backpack for Travel is a versatile rolltop backpack for the urban explorer’s photo equipment and personal gear. It fits up to a DSLR body with attached ultra-wide-angle lens plus a drone and accessories. With the quick side access, you can easily access your camera and drone gear from a protective storage pod while on the go.
It also features a custom fit and protection, thanks to an origami-inspired divider system that folds around the smallest to largest pieces of gear. The spacious rolltop compartment stores personal items and expands when the camera pod is removed. And the front pockets provide plenty of organization and quick-stash storage for accessories. Our guide to the best roll top backpacks offers more great products like this.
Key Features:
- Quick side access
- Removable pod system
- Custom-fit dividers
- Dedicated laptop compartment
Specifications:
- Brand: Thule
- Dimensions: 21.3″ H x 17.7″ W x 7.9″ D
- Weight: 4.97 lbs
- The front compartments are perfect for storing everything from personal items
- The top flap rolls down to secure when closed
- Comfortable bag to wear as a backpack
- There is a double layer compartment on the reverse side for laptops and tablets
- Can bit a bit bulky when packed too much
9. Vanguard Alta Sky 51D Camera Backpack for Travel
Vanguard Alta Sky 51D Camera Backpack for Travel is a series of dynamic backpacks with a new take on what versatility can really offer a professional photographer. Vanguard’s design team has created a new standard in adaptable carrying and working solutions, enabling a simple transition from 100% gear to 100% personal as well as setting-up anywhere in between.
The result is feature-packed backpacks, endless working scenario adaptabilities, reliable gear protection for cameras and drones, personal accommodation and ultimately the most flexible user experience in the field! Alta Sky offers smart storage for your personal gear with large flexible pockets for water bottles or flasks, secure zipper pockets for wallets and other valuables, and dedicated a phone pocket with a headphone extraction port.
Key Features:
- Multi-access quick-action
- Numerous dedicated pockets
- Includes total coverage rain cover
- Clutter-free – stowable connector straps
Specifications:
- Brand: VANGUARD
- Dimensions: 22.25″ H x 14.63″ W x 10.25″ D
- Weight: 6.44 lbs
- The build quality on this bag is top notch
- This bag has the feel of ruggedness
- It’s sturdy enough to stand on its own
- The straps are plenty comfy
- No bags at the waist belt
10. Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW II – A Travel Camera Backpack
The Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW II – A Travel Camera Backpack has been trusted to travel for years. This next-generation pack design includes enhanced protection with a built-in All Weather AW Cover and CradleFit device compartment, plus three primary storage zones to help keep you organized and ready for the fast pace of modern travel. Secure the Fastpack backpack to a rolling trolley via the compression straps, and keep valuable gear protected from the elements with the built-in All Weather AW Cover.
The customizable camera zone includes a padded and adjustable interior, full-access zippered opening, and a bright grey interior for high visibility. The dedicated device zone includes CradleFit tablet protection and a well-padded laptop pocket. A security flap with quick-release buckles covers an outer pocket. The open zone at the top of the pack has multiple pockets and space for organizing your smartphone, cables, pens, keys and other items.
Key Features:
- Features three, primary storage zones
- Open zone at top of pack
- Padded and removable waistbelt
- Built-in All Weather AW Cover
Specifications:
- Brand: LOWE PRO
- Dimensions: 19.69″ H x 12.2″ W x 10.24″ D
- Weight: 3.96 lbs
- Easy access to gear while standing and walking
- This pack fits a lot of camera equipment and has substantial padding
- It has a removable waist strap
- The materials are light, strong, and don’t collect dust like many felt lined bags
- Not very comfortable wearing fully loaded for more than a couple of hours
Buying Guide
Split Compartments
Split compartments are becoming an increasingly common option among photographers as roll-top camera backpacks grow. They tend to provide less room, but other people prefer the distinction of keeping their photography equipment in one room and personal objects in the other, such as lunch and a wardrobe transition.
Materials
Many camera backpacks for travel are made of sturdy, high-tech materials such as ballistic nylon which offer water resistance and protection against harsh temperatures and conditions. if you don’t really have to think about the adverse weather — or even like an old-school style — conventional canvas bags are hard-wearing and cool-looking, and are likely to be rugged enough to survive the inevitable downpour.
Comfort
A lot of photographers have traumatic memories of the braces of their bags cutting against their arms and ribs. The continuous modification and readjustment of the harnesses is quickly becoming an annoyance. Itching and twitching under the badly made material and lack of padding would certainly ruin every trip.
Ease of Use
When selecting your camera bag, an aspect many photographers can forget is how easily they will be able to reach their equipment when they unexpectedly come across the perfect shot. Many people find themselves struggling with getting their bag off and then fumbling with the zippers until eventually, the chance has slipped through their fingers.
Weatherproofing
Elements are adequately secured from the best camera backpacks. They are going to be made from non-porous material and have a sort of sealing around the zippers. Some will also provide a rain cover so you can wear in a downpour over your pack.
Frequently Ask Questions
How do I find the best camera backpack for travel?
When buying a backpack the most important thing is to understand the particular needs carefully. Think of what you want to carry, and what circumstances to use the pack for. You may need something durable and tough, something creative and competent, or something small and unnoticeable. These aspects, along with the visual appeal and price of the bag you pick, are crucial considerations.
How to pack a camera backpack for travel?
When using your camera backpack for travel, make sure to properly use some protective covers to avoid damage to your gear. Ensure the breakable objects such as camera bodies and lenses are properly placed in their own sealed compartment each. You’ll want your gear to be snug but not over-cramped in case your bag gets jolted around.
Is a camera bag considered a personal item?
Camera bags may be considered a personal item but they can all depend on their dimensions and the specifications of the airline. As a quick guide, most airlines would deem this a personal item if the camera bag is a handbag sized or smaller than that. Bigger camera bags with lens or drone space will usually be over the size limit of your personal item and count as your carry on. Please contact the airline with whom you are flying to review their rules.
Can you bring a camera on a plane?
Digital electronics are authorized with either checked baggage or carry-on. In reality, it would be easier for you to carry things like laptops, tablets, video cameras, and video game consoles with you, because checked luggage might be jostled quite a bit when it is carried on and off the aircraft.
Conclusion
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best camera backpacks for travel as well as our guide on features to look for in a camera backpack for travel. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.