A great camera backpack for travel and hiking has to do two things well: protect your gear from bumps, rain, and rough terrain, and not destroy your back on a long day out. I’ve carried camera gear across ridgelines and through airports, and the packs below are the ones that consistently outperform the competition. Whether you’re shooting in the field or going carry-on only, there’s an option here for you.
Our Top 3 Picks
- Best Overall: Lowepro FreeLine BP 350 AW
- Best Premium Option: Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L
- Best for Serious Hiking: Shimoda Explore V2 25
How Tested
Testing these packs on real hikes carrying a mirrorless body, 2–3 lenses, and accessories over multiple days across different terrain. Key factors: weather resistance, access speed, carry comfort over 4+ hours, and how well the dividers protect gear from bumps.
1. Lowepro FreeLine BP 350 AW. Best Overall
The FreeLine BP 350 AW hits the sweet spot between capacity, comfort, and weather protection. The 35-liter size fits a mirrorless or DSLR body with 4–5 lenses, a 15″ laptop, and personal items, carry-on legal on most airlines. The modular divider system is fully removable, so you can configure it as a regular travel pack when not shooting. The AW (All Weather) cover is integrated into the back panel and deploys fast. Shoulder straps are padded and contoured well. Lowepro’s build quality is reliable.
Specs: 35L | Fits 15″ laptop | All-weather cover included | Carries mirrorless + 4 lenses | Price: ~$150
2. Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L. Best Premium Option
Peak Design’s Everyday Backpack is the most thoughtfully designed camera bag I’ve ever used. The MagLatch closure lets you access gear from the top or sides in seconds, critical when you’re hiking and spot wildlife. The weatherproof 400D nylon shell is genuinely tough. The internal FlexFold dividers are origami-style foam that adapts to your exact kit. It’s expensive, but if you shoot regularly and want a bag that works as a daily pack too, it’s worth every dollar.
Specs: 20L | MagLatch closure | Weatherproof 400D nylon | Works as everyday carry | Price: ~$280
3. Shimoda Explore V2 25. Best for Serious Hiking
If you’re actually hiking, not just walking, the Shimoda Explore V2 25 is the one to consider. It’s built around the Core Unit system: a separate padded insert that holds your camera gear, surrounded by a proper hiking frame with a hip belt that actually transfers load. You can remove the Core Unit entirely and use the shell as a regular daypack. The suspension system is genuinely backpacking-grade, which makes a massive difference on long days with a heavy mirrorless kit.
From the Photographer
Layered Rock Ferns Sandstone
Layered sandstone and ferns, the reward at the end of the trail
Zeefeldt Photography. Fine art prints starting at $95
Specs: 25L | Core Unit modular system | Full hiking suspension | Hip belt load transfer | Price: ~$250
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look For in a Camera Hiking Backpack
The most important features for a camera hiking backpack: weather protection (look for a rain cover or weatherproof shell), access speed (side access panels let you grab gear without taking the bag off), padding quality (dense foam dividers protect better than thin padded sleeves), and carry comfort (hip belt load transfer matters a lot on hikes over 2 hours). Capacity of 20–30L works well for day hikes; 35L+ is better for multi-day or travel use.
If you are working with a tighter budget, see our best budget camera backpacks for hiking guide for top picks under $150.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size camera backpack do I need for hiking?
For a day hike with a mirrorless body and 2–3 lenses plus personal items, a 20–25L bag is usually sufficient. If you also need space for a laptop, lunch, and layers, go 30–35L. Keep in mind that heavier packs are harder to carry over distance, so only pack what you’ll actually use.
Are camera backpacks good for actual hiking?
Standard camera bags are designed for urban or light trail use. For serious hiking, longer distances, heavier terrain, you want a bag with an ergonomic hip belt that transfers load to your hips, not just your shoulders. The Shimoda Explore V2 is the standout in this category.
Can Worth carrying a camera backpack on a plane?
Most 20–35L camera backpacks fit in overhead bins and under seats on most major airlines, but check specific dimensions against your airline’s carry-on policy. The Lowepro FreeLine 350 AW is explicitly designed to be airline carry-on legal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good camera backpack for hiking?
A great camera backpack for hiking should have customizable padded dividers, quick-access side or rear panels, weather resistance or a rain cover, comfortable hip and shoulder straps for long hikes, and enough room for a 15-inch laptop alongside your gear.
How much camera gear can fit in a hiking camera backpack?
Most hiking camera backpacks (20–30L) fit 1–2 camera bodies, 3–5 lenses, a tripod attachment, and personal items. Larger packs (35–40L) can accommodate full professional kits. Always check the pack’s dedicated camera compartment dimensions before purchasing.
Are camera backpacks waterproof?
Most camera backpacks are water-resistant, not fully waterproof. They typically include a dedicated rain cover for heavy downpours. For extreme weather, look for packs with IPX4 or higher ratings. Always use the rain cover when shooting in wet conditions to protect your gear.
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