7 Best Camera Backpacks for Travelers and Outdoor Photographers in 2025

If you’re into birding, wildlife, or landscape photography, you’ve likely faced the same frustrating dilemma: carrying your camera gear safely while also staying comfortable on long hikes. A good camera backpack isn’t just about space—it’s about accessibility, protection, ergonomics, and how it performs in real outdoor situations. After diving into extensive user reviews, testing feedback, and technical specs, I’ve picked seven best camera backpacks for traveler birders and outdoor photographers from a range of brands that genuinely stand out—and not always for the right reason.

With Father’s Day just around the corner, there’s no better time to celebrate dads who love the great outdoors, whether they’re seasoned hikers, spontaneous weekend adventurers, or simply love a good walk in nature. A high-quality backpack is one of the most useful and thoughtful gifts you can give—something that supports his journeys, keeps his gear organized, and stands up to every adventure. From ergonomic hiking packs to sleek everyday backpacks with modern features, we’ve explored the best picks that combine style, durability, and function. Whether he’s carrying binoculars for birdwatching, packing lunch for a family hike, or commuting with his laptop, these backpacks make the perfect Father’s Day companion.

These bags range from minimal and modular to rugged and overbuilt. And while many promise “ultimate comfort” or “unmatched organization,” let’s get honest about what they actually deliver.

1. Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L Backpack

The Strohl Mountain Light 45L is designed in collaboration with adventure photographer Alex Strohl. The idea behind it is clear: reduce weight without compromising structure or weather resistance. It’s made of lightweight, waterproof materials and has plenty of room for modular camera inserts, extra clothes, and hiking gear.

But here’s the thing—this is not a plug-and-play solution. Out of the box, it’s basically just a shell. You’ll need to purchase the camera insert separately, which adds both cost and decision fatigue. The benefit? You can customize your setup exactly how you want, whether you’re carrying a full-frame mirrorless camera with telephoto lenses or just a compact system.

The straps are comfortable for full-day treks, and the waist belt actually supports your load rather than just hanging awkwardly like in cheaper designs. But accessibility isn’t ideal. You’ll have to take the bag off for full access, and while that’s expected for a hiking-first backpack, it’s not ideal when a bird lands just long enough for one shot.

Best for: Long hikes and serious landscape/bird photographers who prioritize weight savings

Pros

• Lightweight but durable
• Modular layout suits pros and minimalists alike
• Good hip support and load transfer

Cons

• Camera insert not included
• No quick-access side opening
• Limited organization without add-ons

Price

The Strohl Mountain Light 45L Backpack is currently an absolute steal at $99, marked down from its original $250—a massive 60% discount. For a well-built mountain backpack of this capacity, this price is hard to beat and makes it one of the best-value deals available right now.

2. Peak Design Everyday Backpack v2 20L/30L

Let’s be honest: the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is popular for a reason, but it’s not the rugged field bag it sometimes pretends to be. That said, it’s an excellent choice if you’re moving between urban life and outdoor escapes. The design is sleek, the materials are solid, and the FlexFold dividers do a good job of keeping gear from sliding around.

Where this bag really shines is its accessibility. You can open it from the sides or top, making it easy to grab your camera or binoculars quickly. It also has a hidden laptop sleeve, perfect for digital nomads or bird photographers editing on the go.

On the downside, this backpack doesn’t breathe well. If you’re hiking in warm weather, your back is going to get sweaty. Also, the compression straps feel a bit like an afterthought—fine for city use but not secure enough for hiking poles or large water bottles.

You can save more when you bundle your Everyday Backpack v2 with Peak Design add-ons. Options include organizers for clothing, camera gear, and everyday essentials—letting you customize your backpack for travel, photography, or daily use. These thoughtful add-ons help justify the backpack’s premium price and turn it into a truly all-in-one carry solution. Check out the available bundles to get the most value from your setup.

Best for: Urban birders and hybrid commuters

Pros

• Sleek, minimal look
• Quick side access to gear
• Built-in laptop sleeve and tech-friendly

Cons

• Poor ventilation for hiking
• Straps not padded enough for long treks
• On the pricey side considering its capacity

Price

The Everyday Backpack v2 (available in 20L and 30L sizes) comes in at $299.95 USD, placing it firmly in the premium category. While it’s a significant investment, this price reflects its sleek design, smart internal organization, and everyday functionality. If you’re after a modern, versatile camera bag that doubles as a daily carry, the cost might be justified—just be sure you’re ready to pay for polish and brand reputation.

3. Shimoda Explore V2 35

If you’re the kind of birder who flies to Colombia in search of tanagers or treks through British Columbia’s rainforests, the Shimoda Explore V2 35 could be your go-to pack. It’s a solid carry-on-sized backpack built with premium materials, excellent zippers, and weather resistance that feels closer to alpine gear than photography luggage.

The adjustable torso height is one of the smartest features here—rarely seen in camera bags. Whether you’re 5’4″ or 6’3″, you can dial in a fit that doesn’t punish your spine after a few miles. The camera insert is removable and customizable, but again, you’ll pay extra for it.

One critique is that while it’s extremely protective, this bag borders on overbuilt. For those who carry only a mid-size mirrorless kit and a couple lenses, it’s overkill. But for people with a 100-400mm or a drone kit alongside camera gear, it’s a dream.

Best for: Photographers who travel internationally or shoot in all conditions

Pros

• Airline carry-on compatible
• Adjustable torso for ergonomic fit
• Highly weather-resistant and secure

Cons

• Expensive, especially with the insert
• Overbuilt for casual photographers
• A bit heavy when fully loaded

Price

The Shimoda Explore V2 35 Backpack is priced at $319.95, which reflects its premium, travel-ready design built by Shimoda Designs—a brand known for creating rugged, professional-grade camera backpacks. While the price is undeniably high, it’s aimed at serious creators who need flexibility, durability, and modularity in one system. For photographers who value dependable gear in harsh conditions, it could be a worthy long-term investment. Plus, with free U.S. shipping on orders over $100, you won’t pay extra to get it delivered.

4. Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW III

This is the bag you bring when your shoot calls for serious gear, serious access, and zero excuses. The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW III is a modular beast—built for professionals who carry multiple cameras, telephoto lenses, accessories, and still want to keep everything tightly organized and ready to grab. With four access points (top, sides, and full back), it’s surprisingly fast to use in dynamic situations. You don’t need to put it down in the dirt—just swing and grab.

It also comes fully loaded with accessory straps, pouches, and a SlipLock modular system that makes it feel more like a tactical rig than a backpack. Need to carry a tripod, laptop, water bottle, or your entire portable studio? No problem. It’s got built-in space and loops for that. And unlike older models, this third-gen version makes a real effort to prioritize comfort, with a redesigned ActivZone harness and breathable back panel.

But here’s the honest downside: it’s bulky, heavy, and expensive (over $300). Even with ergonomic upgrades, if you load this thing to its full potential, you’ll feel it—especially on longer treks. It’s not built for casual hikers or minimalist travelers. This is a bag for committed pros who know they’ll be shooting from cars, airports, or event sites—not bushwhacking through the mountains.

Best for: Pro photographers who demand fast access, full customization, and a pack that can take a beating.

Pros

• Massive capacity with smart layout
• Fast, multi-point access
• Rugged and protective

Cons

• Heavy and bulky
• Not great for long-distance hiking
• Looks tactical (not ideal for travel stealth)

Price

The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW III is now available for $319.95, marked down from its original $349.95, giving you a modest $30 (9%) discount. While it’s still a premium-priced camera backpack, this small price drop makes it a bit more approachable for serious photographers looking to invest in a rugged, modular system built for demanding shoots.

5. Nomatic Peter McKinnon 35L Camera Pack

The McKinnon Camera Pack 35L is a standout choice for photographers and adventurers who need a versatile, well-designed backpack that can handle both gear and travel essentials. Its customizable dividers let you organize your camera bodies, lenses, and accessories exactly how you want, while a separate compartment easily holds up to four days of clothing. With an expandable capacity that goes from 35 to 42 liters, this pack adapts to your needs, making it perfect for weekend trips or longer adventures.

One of the best features is the quick-access design, which gives you easy reach to your camera without having to dig through the entire bag. It also includes a dedicated laptop sleeve that fits up to a 16” MacBook, hidden pockets for water bottles or tripods, and an RFID-safe pocket for valuables. The full internal suspension system and removable waist straps make carrying heavy loads more comfortable than you might expect from a backpack this size. Plus, the durable, water-resistant materials mean it can stand up to the rigors of outdoor use.

That said, the pack is on the heavier side, which is worth considering if you plan on hiking long distances. But the thoughtful design and high-quality build more than make up for the extra weight, especially if you’re mixing photography with travel or content creation. It’s a smart, stylish option that balances organization, comfort, and durability—ideal for those who want a single bag that can do it all.

Best for: Hybrid travelers, content creators, and pros who want to carry clothes and camera gear in one sleek, high-quality pack.

Pros

• Expandable from 35L to 42L
• Stylish enough for pro use
• Packed with clever features

Cons

• Very heavy
• Expensive for what it offers
• Not designed for field comfort

Price

The McKinnon Camera Pack 35L is currently on sale for $319.99 USD, down from its original $399.99, which means you’re saving a solid 20%. It’s still a high-end price point, but for photographers who want a premium, modular travel backpack with clean design and smart internal organization, this discount makes it a bit more justifiable—especially if you’ve had your eye on it for a while.

6. Moment Rugged Camera Sling 10L

Sometimes you don’t want a big pack. If you’re going out for a quick birding walk with just a mirrorless camera and a 70-300mm lens, this Rugged Camera Sling 10L is a smart, no-fuss option. It’s weatherproof, easy to swing around, and keeps your camera ready at all times.

Still, 10L is tight. You can forget about packing a jacket or lunch or even a large field guide. The fit across the body also depends a lot on torso size; on smaller frames it feels comfortable, but larger folks might find it awkward.

Don’t expect it to replace your full backpack, but do expect to reach for it often when you just want the essentials.

Best for: Minimalist birders who shoot with compact kits

Pros

• Super compact and lightweight
• Quick access to camera
• Water-resistant and durable

Cons

• Too small for long trips or multiple lenses
• Can feel unbalanced during movement
• Limited space for accessories

Price

The Rugged Camera Sling is priced at $160 USD, making it an affordable option for photographers looking for a compact, easy-to-carry bag without breaking the bank. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of larger backpacks, its price point offers great value for quick outings or everyday use when you only need to carry minimal gear.

7. Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack

The Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack aims to be a hybrid: laptop bag meets camera carrier meets lifestyle daypack. And for many casual photographers, it succeeds. It has a sleek urban profile with a roll-top for extra storage, and it doesn’t scream “expensive gear inside,” which is a plus when traveling.

The interior is flexible and offers removable inserts, making it easy to convert for non-photo use. However, the straps could be more padded, and there’s no waist belt—so it’s not ideal for longer excursions or uneven terrain.

It’s a great bag for city birders or weekend trips, but not built for serious trail adventures.

Best for: Everyday users who want a balance between work and wildlife

Pros

• Discreet and travel-friendly
• Roll-top expansion for extra gear
• Versatile everyday use

Cons

• Lacks serious hiking support
• Shoulder straps not designed for comfort under load
• Not water-sealed (needs rain cover)

Price

The Tenba DNA 13 DSLR Messenger Bag is priced at $179.95, positioning it as a mid-range option for photographers who prefer a stylish, compact messenger style. It offers good value for those wanting quick access to their DSLR gear without the bulk of a full backpack, making it a smart choice for everyday shoots or urban photography.

The Best Camera Backpacks Compared: 7 Top Picks for Creators, Travelers & Outdoor Photographers

Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to camera backpacks, and this roundup proves it. The Shimoda Explore V2 35 is perfect for serious outdoor photographers, combining backcountry comfort with airport-ready features. The McKinnon Camera Pack 35L offers premium versatility for hybrid creators, while the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW III remains a go-to for those needing tactical modularity and fast access. Lightweight and minimal, the Strohl Mountain Light 45L excels on alpine treks with a camera in tow, and the Peak Design Everyday Backpack v2 (20L/30L) keeps things sleek and urban for minimalist carry.

In the smaller bag category, the Rugged Camera Sling gives fast access and mobility for quick shoots, and the Tenba DNA 13 Messenger shines in city environments with padded protection and professional styling. Pricing spans from around $160 to over $320, with several current discounts (like $30 off the Lowepro and 20% off the McKinnon) making this a great time to invest.

As Father’s Day approaches, a quality camera backpack makes a thoughtful, practical gift for any dad passionate about photography or outdoor adventures. Investing in the right pack not only protects valuable gear but also enhances every shooting experience, whether it’s a short urban stroll or an all-day birdwatching expedition. Ultimately, pick the backpack that fits your shooting style and travel habits—comfort and functionality should always come first.

Each one of these packs has its flaws—and that’s okay. The key is finding the one whose compromises you can live with.

Let me know which one you’re leaning toward—or if you’ve found another hidden gem worth adding to this list!