If you want to take home the perfect, professional-standard pictures at family gatherings, during your travels abroad or even just while walking around your local park, it’s best to make sure you have the best gear. However, unlike your smartphone or pocket compact, most top-quality camera equipment comes with one major drawback. It’s big and heavy to carry around with you, which is exactly why you’re going to need one of the best camera backpacks to carry all of your photo gear.
While you might not need the best camera backpack for your disposable camera or instant camera, camera backpacks make for a handy way to carry your DSLR and mirrorless camera bodies, lenses and other camera accessories while keeping them safe and protected at the same time. Almost always will camera backpacks have specific compartments to separate and cushion your gear properly, which is also great for organization.
Plus, the majority of the world’s best camera backpacks are pretty good-looking, so you can be sure they’ll up your style as you lug your gear down the street. Looking for the best of the best? Check out the top camera backpacks of 2021 below. It’s time to get shooting again, folks.
1. The Brevitē Jumper Backpack
“As a photographer, the Brevitē Jumper has quickly become my go-to camera backpack,” says our e-commerce editor Tyler Schoeber. “I used to be the kind of person who threw everything inside of a regular Herschel Supply Co. bag and called it a day until I dented a lens on my medium format camera. With the Brevitē Jumper, I’m able to pack everything I possibly need for a day separately and neatly divided so I don’t fumble when shooting.”
In addition to that, the Brevitē Jumper is completely customizable to all user’s needs with removable dividers, a quick access door and space for your 16-inch laptop. Colors range out the wazoo and each pack is totally lightweight.
Buy: The Brevitē Jumper Backpack $149.99
2. CADeN Camera Backpack Bag
Just $40 for one of the best camera bags with almost 6,000 5-star ratings on Amazon? It’s going to be a yes from us. The CADeN camera backpack is a pro photo pack made for carrying everything you definitely need and anything you might not. It’s got enough storage for one camera body, four lenses, a flash, a tablet and a tripod for all your needs. Or, ditch it all and pack your drone instead. This lightweight, tiny pack can carry it all, so don’t underestimate that tiny size.
Buy: CADeN Camera Backpack Bag $30.99
3. Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II
Lowepro’s latest iteration of the ProTactic, the BP 450 AW II, is a rough and ready option for anyone in need of a backpack for facing all kinds of weather and situations. Firstly, the backpack is made for housing both camera gear and your laptop (up to 15 inches). Secondly, the space inside is highly changeable, allowing you to tailor it to your storage needs. There are also a number of removable extras, including a water bottle holder, tripod cup and two handy quick straps. You’ll find a built-in rain cover and reinforced top pocket, which is great for quick access to important items. You can also set the pack up for right or left-handed camera access, depending on your preference.
Buy: Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II $222.98
4. AmazonBasics Backpack for DSLR Cameras
With just over 15,000 5-star reviews, the AmazonBasics DSLR Camera Backpack is easily the most reviewed option on our list. The bag is made from a durable black polyester and nylon mix and provides the average camera user with more than enough interior storage space. You’ll be able to store up to two camera bodies, three or four lenses and a range of additional small accessories. If you’re looking for a tried and tested bag that is budget-friendly and loved by users, this might be the best choice. It even comes with an included tripod!
Buy: AmazonBasics Backpack for DSLR Cameras $39.23
5. Neewer Waterproof Camera Case
With its super simple internal layout, the Neewer Waterproof Camera Case provides quick and easy access to your gear when you need it. The removable and changeable interior walls mean you can set your bag up just as you need it for your current gear, ensuring each piece has its own space. The exterior is also waterproof to keep your stuff safe, and there are internal mesh pockets for cables, cards and other small accessories.
Buy: Neewer Waterproof Camera Case $36.49
6. Zecti Waterproof Canvas Camera Backpack
If that boxy, black camera backpack style just isn’t your thing, maybe the Zecti Waterproof Camera Backpack will make you happy. Its canvas exterior gives a more casual backpack appearance, while the well throughout the interior still provides plenty of space and protection for your camera gear. The backpack includes an exterior rain cover and carrying handles for alternate carrying options. There’s also a breathable mesh back panel and padded shoulder straps to provide a comfortable wearing experience. Plus, the front pocket is capable of holding a 13-inch laptop.
Buy: Zecti Waterproof Canvas Camera Backpack $69.99
7. Endurax Video Camera Backpack
The Endurax Video Camera Backpack is a great option for the more adventurous among us. The design features a padded carrying handle, a water bottle pocket, a number of carrying loops and reflective strips to keep you visible at night. Inside, you’ll find a flip-out tripod holder, enough room for two camera bodies and several lenses as well as a pocket for a 15.6-inch laptop. The pack also includes a built-in rain cover and comes in a choice of black or grey.
Buy: Endurax Video Camera Backpack $69.99
8. USA Gear Digital SLR Camera Backpack
With over 3,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, the USA Gear Digital SLR Camera Backpack is another well-reviewed and popular option with Amazon users. It provides quick and easy side camera access when the pack is on your back, and it sports reinforced zippers for maximum durability. The internal storage area can be customized for your preferences and includes a pocket large enough to house a 15.6-inch laptop. On the sides of the backpack, you’ll also find a bottle pocket and tripod holder for photography on the go.
Buy: USA Gear Digital SLR Camera Backpack $64.99
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