Whether you’re a traveller, hobby photographer, or a pro, you need a good quality bag to transport and protect your gear. Fortunately, there’s many great camera backpacks designed to do just that, with most of the top brands being available in Australia.
It can, however, be difficult to navigate the world of camera backpacks, especially with all the various designs, materials, and features.
After the summary table below we take a look and the key considerations you should keep in mind when choosing a camera backpack followed by detailed reviews of our favourite products.
Our top pick: Lowepro Fastpack 250
From the most trusted name in camera accessories comes this very slick and functional backpack designed for photographers on the go.
Accommodating a DSLR with 2-3 additional lenses and a 15” laptop, this backpack would suit a wide range of photographers.
Access is impressive, as alluded to by the “Fastpack” name. Three storage zones are available, helping you keep organised and get your hands on what you need, when you need it. There are also a range of smaller pouches for SD cards, cords etc.
A built-in all weather cover protects your gear from the elements.
Pros
- Quick access to multiple compartments
- All weather protection
- Comfortable backpack
- Looks great
Cons
- Some photographers may prefer more space for more camera bodies
Best Value: Amazon Basics Camera Backpack
With many of the features found in higher end products, the AmazonBasics camera backpack provides a great value option for budget conscious photographers.
With space for 2 DSLR camera bodies and 3-4 lenses, this pack offers plenty of space for your core gear along with designated spaces for accessories.
Compartment cells are padded and adjustable, meaning you can customise the interior to fit your preferred set-up.
Straps and cords on the sides and back of the pack provide a range of options for tripods storage.
Pros
- Padded, customisable storage compartments
- Waist and chest straps
- Affordable
Cons
- Quality likely not up to par of more expensive brands
Zecti Waterproof Camera Backpack
An awesome, casual style camera pack, the Zecti is perfect for those people who don’t want to make obvious they are carrying around thousands of dollars worth of camera gear.
With comfortable, breathable shoulder straps and a handy waist strap, the Zecti is great for photographers who spend a lot of time on foot. The canvas outer and zipper are both waterproof, while a separate rain cover provides an extra layer of protection from the elements.
One of our favourite features of the Zecti is that the liner box can be removed, meaning the bag can be easily converted into a regular casual daypack.
The main compartment of the bag is accessed via the back, providing an additional layer of security. A unique strap and pocket system on the side of the pack is designed to keep your tripod secure.
This pack has space for 3 DSLRs, 4 lenses, and a 13 inch laptop. For further piece of mind, Zecti offers an 18-month warranty.
Pros
- Great, casual looking backpack
- Waterproof canvas and zip
- Additional rain cover
- Removable equipment dividers
Cons
- Expensive
Gitzo Adventury 30L Camera Backpack
Developed for the wildlife and bird watching photographer, the Gitzo Adventury backpack is a high-end camera bag packed with features designed with the outdoor photographer in mind.
It’s a breathable and comfortable pack thanks to padded straps and back padding, while a chest and waist strap helps distribute the load.
A range of tripod carrying straps and pockets provides you options depending on your gear.
Being an outdoor pack, weatherproofing is impressive, with a water repellent outer and waterproof zippers. There is also a separate rain cover located in the bottom of the pack.
Rear access provides additional security while an expandable roll-top section at the top of the pack provides additional space for personal items.
Pros
- Comfortable for extended hiking
- Tough water resistant outer with separate rain cover
- Removable, customisable equipment section
- Multiple tripod carrying options
Cons
- Expensive
Manfrotto Tri Large Advanced Backpack
A very popular camera bag, the Tri Large Advanced from Manfrotto combines innovative features with the simplicity and ease-of-use photographers value when out in the field.
The defining feature of this backpack its ability to be worn in three different styles, providing impressive versatility for both amateur and professional photographers alike.
The shoulder straps can both be unclipped and attached in a different configuration, providing two backpack options plus the option of wearing it as a sling bag for easy access.
The interior of the pack is spacious and customisable. It has separate compartments for personal and camera gear, which are all separated by rigid padded dividers to protect your gear in case of impact.
There is capacity for a pro DSLR with zoom along with 5 additional lenses and a 15 inch laptop. Also included is a range of smaller pockets and compartments to stow your various cords, flash and other accessories.
Tripod attachment loops are included on the outside of the pack while a separate rain cover will protect your kit if you get caught in the rain.
Pros
- 3 carrying options
- Easy access
- Customisable compartments
- Rain cover included
Cons
- Straps may not be comfortable enough for extended walking/hiking
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How To Choose Your Camera Backpack
Below we look at the key things to consider when choosing a backpack for your camera gear. Keep these in mind when evaluating your alternatives.
Protection
Camera backpacks protect your gear by utilising individual padded compartments, meaning your camera body and lenses are all stored in their own snug compartment. It’s important to opt for a backpack that has the right number of compartments to suit your needs, or is customisable.
Waterproofing is also important for a camera backpack. This can be achieved through the outer material itself, however in heavy rain we would recommend a second layer of protection. Many camera backpacks come with a separate rain cover.
Access
Access might be the most important aspect of your camera backpack. You want to be able to quickly and safely move various pieces of kit in and out of the bag. This is an area that differs dramatically between modern camera bags, with access points being located on the top, sides, front and back.
Back access may be favoured by travellers who want an extra layer of security, as the pack needs to be taken off your back in order to access the main compartment.
Storage
To determine the size of bag that will suit you best, you need to assess what gear you will generally transport. This should include gear that you intend to buy in the near future!
The beauty of a camera backpack is that it can usually accommodate more than just your camera gear. If you usually carry around a laptop, water bottle, and rain jacket, make sure you have space for these as well.
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Disguise
While this won’t be a priority for everyone, many travellers will enjoy being able to transport their gear around in a bag that doesn’t make completely obvious it’s full of valuable electronics.
Manufacturers have really come to the party here producing some great looking casual rucksacks packed with all the features traditionally only found in high-end camera bags.
Comfort
There’s no point forking out for a fancy camera pack if you don’t find it comfortable.
Camera backpacks have the inherent advantage over other camera bags of having shoulder straps that spread the weight evenly across the shoulders. The heavier your gear is the more padding and support you’ll want from your bag.
Try to stick with proven brands like Lowepro to be sure you’re getting designs that have been tried and tested over a long period of time.
Verdict
At the end of the day, you need to find a camera backpack that best suits your specific preferences and requirements.
All of the bags on this list are great options, however, if we had to choose just one, we’d go with the Lowepro Fastpack because of its proven reliability, easy access and range of great features.
