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Writer's pictureJared Weintraub

The Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking

You’re getting ready for an epic hiking adventure, ready to capture the beauty of the great outdoors.


But as you start packing your backpack, you realize the potential risks of tossing your camera in alongside your other gear, unprotected.


The thought of it getting bumped around, exposed weather, or damaged makes you feel apprehensive.


That's where a comfortable backpack tailored specifically to protecting your camera equipment comes in: a camera backpack for hiking.



As a professional outdoors photographer, having a specific backpack for my gear is absolutely crucial.


Instead of risking damage or loss, I always opt for a dedicated camera hiking backpack to ensure my gear stays safe and organized on all my adventures.


With padded compartments and customizable dividers, I can hike without worry as I know my cameras, lenses, and accessories are securely nestled away, safe and ready to capture every moment of my trip.


It's not just about protecting my gear – it's about preserving the memories waiting to be captured in the outdoors.


So let's dive into this guide on what I believe are the top eight camera backpacks on the market today.


The Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking


Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II

As I embark on any hike, the rugged design of the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II gives me peace of mind.





Its customizable interior keeps my gear safe from bumps and bruises, while the all-weather protection ensures my equipment stays dry no matter the conditions.


This is without a doubt the best camera backpack for hiking I’ve ever used.


Over the six years I’ve had this bag, I still use it every day with no signs of deterioration.


I've had the pleasure of using the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II on numerous hiking expeditions, and I can't speak highly enough of its performance.


The backpack's rugged construction instills confidence, with durable materials that hold up well against the rigors of outdoor adventures.


What sets this backpack apart is its versatility – the customizable interior allows me to configure the compartments to suit my specific gear setup, ensuring everything stays organized and accessible on the trail.

Plus, the all-weather protection has been a lifesaver on more than one occasion, keeping my camera and accessories safe and dry during unexpected weather.


Overall, the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is a top-notch camera hiking backpack that combines durability, functionality, and peace of mind, making it a must-have for any outdoor photographer.

It's advantages include a rugged construction, customizable interior, spacious, all-weather protection, best bang for your buck.


On the other hand, it may be bulky and heavy when filled with gear for some users.


Learn more about this camera backpack for hiking.


MindShift Gear BackLight 26L Backpack

The MindShift Gear BackLight 26L Backpack combines rugged durability with lightweight design, making it an ideal choice for hiking photographers. It features a rear-panel access design for added security and convenience.





While I haven't personally used the MindShift Gear BackLight 26L Backpack, I've heard great reviews from fellow outdoor photographers.


The rear-panel access design is a standout feature, providing added security for your gear while still allowing quick and easy access on the trail.

Plus, the lightweight construction ensures comfort during long hikes, while the water-resistant materials offer peace of mind in unpredictable weather conditions.


It's lightweight design, rear-panel access, water-resistant materials are it's biggest advantages, while it's disadvantages include its smaller size ... so you have to make sure you bring what you need on the trail.


Learn more about this camera backpack for hiking.



Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 offers innovative design and functionality for photographers on the go.


Its customizable dividers and FlexFold system allow for versatile gear organization, while the weatherproof construction ensures protection in any conditions.


The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is a true game-changer for outdoor photographers.


The customizable dividers and FlexFold system make it easy to organize your gear exactly how you like it, while the sleek and stylish design is a bonus.


Although it comes with a higher price tag, the durability and functionality of this backpack make it well worth the investment for serious photographers.


It's advantages include customizable dividers, FlexFold system, weatherproof construction, sleek design. It's disadvantages include a higher price point, smaller capacity.


Learn more about this camera backpack for hiking.


Vanguard Alta Sky 51D Backpack

The Vanguard Alta Sky 51D Backpack is designed for outdoor photographers seeking versatility and comfort.


With ample space for camera gear and personal items, along with a multitude of storage pockets and compartments, this backpack is perfect for extended hiking trips.


The Vanguard Alta Sky 51D Backpack was my go-to companion for long hiking expeditions before I bought the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II.


Its spacious interior accommodates my camera gear, hiking essentials, and even extra layers of clothing.


The ergonomic design and adjustable harness system ensure comfort even on the longest hikes, while the water-resistant materials offer added protection against the elements.

Overall, this backpack strikes the perfect balance between functionality, comfort, and durability, making it an excellent choice for outdoor photographers.


It's advantages include a spacious interior, ergonomic design, water-resistant materials, while it's disadvantages include a lightly heavier and larger compared to other options.


Learn more about this camera backpack for hiking.


F-Stop Tilopa 50L Backpack

The F-Stop Tilopa Backpack is built for rugged outdoor adventures, with a durable construction and ample storage space for camera gear and outdoor essentials.


It features a customizable internal camera unit (ICU) system for versatile gear organization, along with external attachment points for additional gear.

The F-Stop Tilopa Backpack has accompanied my friends on countless hiking and backpacking trips, and it has never disappointed.


The ICU system allows you to configure the backpack to suit your specific gear setup, whether you’re carrying a DSLR camera with multiple lenses or a mirrorless camera with accessories.





The durable construction and ample storage space make it ideal for extended outdoor excursions, while the external attachment points provide flexibility for carrying additional gear such as a tripod or hiking poles.


This bag will most likely be my next purchase as I have acquired more and more gear over the years.


Overall, the F-Stop Tilopa Backpack is a reliable and versatile option for outdoor photographers seeking durability and functionality.


It's advantages include a customizable ICU system, durable construction, ample storage space. On the other hand, it's downsides include that its heavy when full, bulky as 50L for a camera bag is very big (although this is an advantage in my opinion), limited color options.


Learn more about this camera backpack for hiking.


Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack

The Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack is designed for photographers on the move, with a sleek and compact design that's perfect for day hikes and outdoor adventures.


It features customizable dividers and a dedicated compartment for a 15" laptop, making it ideal for both camera gear and everyday essentials.


The Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack is a go-to choice for day hikes and outdoor photography outings. Its compact yet spacious design allows users to carry all their camera gear, along with a 15" laptop for editing on the go.


The customizable dividers provide versatility for organizing gear, while the sleek and understated design is perfect for urban and outdoor environments alike.


Plus, the durable construction and water-resistant materials offer added protection for gear in unpredictable weather conditions.


Overall, the Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack combines style, functionality, and durability in a compact and versatile package.

It's advantages include a compact design, dedicated laptop compartment, water-resistant materials. It's disadvantages are that it's much more limited storage space compared to larger backpacks.


Learn more about this camera backpack for hiking.


Tamrac Anvil Pro 23 Backpack

The Tamrac Anvil Pro 23 Backpack is built to withstand the demands of outdoor photography adventures, with a rugged design and ample storage space for camera gear and accessories.


It features a fully adjustable harness system for comfortable carrying, along with multiple pockets and compartments for organized storage.


The Tamrac Anvil Pro 23 Backpack has been my friend’s trusted companion on rugged outdoor photography expeditions.


Its durable construction and ample storage space make it ideal for carrying all camera gear, including multiple lenses, accessories, and even a drone.


The fully adjustable harness system ensures comfortable carrying, even on long hikes or treks through challenging terrain.


Plus, the multiple pockets and compartments allow for organized storage of smaller items such as memory cards, batteries, and filters.


Overall, the Tamrac Anvil Pro 23 Backpack offers the perfect combination of durability, functionality, and comfort for outdoor photographers.

It's advantages include its rugged construction, ample storage space, adjustable harness system.


On the other hand, it's disadvantages include its higher price point, complex compartment system, limited color options.


Learn more about this camera backpack for hiking.


The Bottom Line: The Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking





As I reflect on my latest hiking adventure to Yosemite, I'm reminded of the invaluable role my camera hiking backpack (the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II) played in safeguarding my gear.


From rugged mountain trails to serene forest paths, having the right backpack allowed me to focus on capturing the beauty of nature without worrying about the safety of my equipment.

Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist seeking to explore the great outdoors, investing in a high-quality camera backpack tailored to your needs is a decision you won't regret.


So as you plan your next hiking adventure, consider adding a camera hiking backpack to your gear list.


Trust me, it's basically insurance that you carry on your back.

All your expensive gear will thank you for it, and allow you to continue to preserve memories outdoors.


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