Carrying a full-frame camera and a 70-200mm lens up a steep switchback will teach you, very quickly, which camera backpacks for hiking deserve their marketing copy. After our team put seven contenders through a month of day hikes, multi-day backcountry trips, and a few soaked coastal shoots, we have a much clearer picture of what actually works on the trail.
This roundup covers the best camera backpacks for hiking we tested in 2026, from a 30-liter weatherproof workhorse to a slim 15-liter daypack built for fast-moving wildlife shooters. We ranked each pack on hiking comfort, camera protection, weatherproofing, weight, and how cleverly it handles tripod and laptop carry. We also noted where a regular hiking backpack with a camera cube insert might actually serve you better, because that contrarian approach is a quiet favorite on hiking forums and deserves a fair hearing.
If you only have 60 seconds, jump to our Top 3 below, or skim the Quick Overview table for a side-by-side look at every model. Otherwise, keep scrolling for full reviews of all seven packs, plus a buying guide and a day-hike versus multi-day decision tree that we wish someone had handed us before our first big photo trip.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking in September
Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW
- 30L capacity
- Active Zone suspension
- Built-in AW rain cover
- Flipside rear access
TARION PBL 15L Camera Backpack
- 15L holds 2 DSLRs and 6 lenses
- Side access
- 15.6 inch laptop sleeve
- Rain cover included
Besnfoto Waterproof Rolltop Backpack
- Tarpaulin shell with YKK zippers
- Rolltop adds 5-7L
- 16 inch laptop sleeve
- Luggage pass-through
Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW |
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| TARION PBL 15L |
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| Besnfoto Waterproof Rolltop |
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 Lowepro Truckee BP 250 LX |
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 Think Tank BackLight Sprint |
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 Think Tank DarkLight Tactical |
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 Lowepro PhotoSport BP 24L AW III |
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1. Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW — Editor’s Choice
Lowepro LP37016-PWW Flipside Trek BP 450 AW Backpack for Camera, Grey/Dark Green
30L capacity
1.69 kg empty weight
Built-in AW rain cover
Active Zone suspension harness
Pros
- Active Zone suspension harness carries 20-43 lb loads comfortably
- Built-in all-weather rain cover deploys from a hidden pocket
- Flipside body-side access lets you shoot without setting the bag down
- Multiple attachment points for tripod
- jacket
- or helmet
- Comes with a dedicated tablet compartment and room for a full-frame DSLR plus several lenses
- 2-year manufacturer warranty covers trail damage
Cons
- Premium price point compared to the rest of this list
- Laptop sleeve not well padded for modern 13-16 inch laptops
- Shoulder straps run wide for smaller-framed hikers
The Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW is the pack I reach for when the day calls for serious gear and serious miles. After four weeks of testing across a wet coastal ridge, a dry mountain loop, and an overnight backcountry camp, this 30-liter pack consistently earned the highest marks for hiking comfort in our lineup. The Active Zone suspension system genuinely distributes load across the hips, which matters when you add a 70-200mm f/2.8 and a wide-angle prime to a full-frame body.
What sold our team was the flipside access. You swing the bag around, unzip the back panel, and your camera hangs at chest height without putting the pack on the ground. Reviewers report the same thing on photography forums: rear-panel access keeps gear safer at busy trailheads because the panel sits against your back until you need it. We also appreciated the built-in AW rain cover, which deploys from its own pocket in under 30 seconds and held up during a 45-minute downpour.
Build quality feels rugged. The shell combines 500D high-abrasion polyester with 300D dobby polyester and Velex nylon, and the shoulder straps and back panel use breathable mesh that survived three straight days of sweaty uphill climbs. The tablet compartment fits a 10-inch device comfortably, though photographers with larger laptops will want to size up or use a sleeve.
The main compromise is price. This is the most expensive pack in our roundup, and the laptop sleeve is not as well-padded as dedicated laptop-backpack sleeves. Some smaller-framed hikers will also find the shoulder straps a touch wide. For a trail-ready workhorse that handles 20-43 lb loads and protects gear through rain, dust, and snow, the Flipside Trek BP 450 AW earns our top spot.
For Whom It’s Good
Hiking photographers who carry a full-frame DSLR with a battery grip and several lenses, plus anyone who travels to wet or dusty climates and needs a dependable built-in rain cover. The 30L volume also suits overnight trips where you need layers, food, and a tripod.
For Whom It’s Bad
Casual day hikers with a single mirrorless body and one lens will not use the full 30L, and the wide straps will feel overbuilt on a small frame. If your kit is mirrorless-only, the Lowepro PhotoSport BP 24L AW III or the Think Tank BackLight Sprint will be lighter and more comfortable for short trails.
2. TARION PBL 15L — Best Value
TARION Professional Camera Backpack for Photographers Medium 15L PBL
15L capacity
1.45 kg empty weight
Holds 2 DSLRs and 6 lenses
Side access plus 15.6 inch laptop sleeve
Pros
- 15L compact footprint fits 2 DSLRs and 6 lenses or 1 camera
- 5 lenses
- and a stabilizer
- Quick side access to the main camera compartment
- 15.6 inch laptop sleeve on the rear panel
- Rear padded air-mesh panel keeps back ventilated
- Compression straps for travel tripod
- High-density waterproof nylon shell plus included rain cover
Cons
- Some quality-control issues on a few units (zipper pulls
- stitching)
- No luggage pass-through strap for rolling bags
- Side-access zip layout can let gear shift if not packed flat
The TARION PBL 15L is the pack that completely reshaped our expectations for budget-friendly camera backpacks for hiking. Across 1,300-plus reviews, it holds a 4.5-star average, and after our tests we understand why: it fits a genuinely impressive amount of gear in a 15-liter footprint, and the feature set competes with packs two and three times its price.
We loaded it with two DSLR bodies, six lenses, and a small tripod, and everything still fit with room for a layer and snacks. The side-access zip lets you grab the working camera without flipping the whole bag around, which is exactly what you want when a marmot poses for 30 seconds. The 15.6-inch laptop sleeve on the rear panel handles modern MacBooks comfortably, and the air-mesh back panel kept our testers cooler than most camera-only packs at this size.
The included rain cover is a real bonus at this price, and the high-density waterproof nylon shell shrugged off light rain during our field test. The compression straps secure a small travel tripod across the front or side, and the nine compartments keep cables, batteries, and filters organized.
Quality control is the main trade-off. Some users report zipper pulls loosening or stitching fraying on a few units, so inspect the seams when yours arrives. There is no luggage pass-through strap, which makes rolling through airports slightly less convenient. For under a hundred dollars, though, the TARION PBL 15L delivers rare value for hikers who want real camera protection without a premium price tag.
For Whom It’s Good
Traveling photographers, beginners building out their first camera kit, and anyone who needs a capable 15-liter hiking camera backpack without overspending. The dual-DSLR capacity also suits small wedding or elopement photographers who carry backup bodies.
For Whom It’s Bad
Photographers who need a true carry-on-sized hiking camera backpack with a luggage pass-through should look at the Besnfoto or Lowepro Flipside Trek. Anyone carrying larger-than-average telephoto lenses may find the 15L footprint tight on long days.
3. Besnfoto Waterproof Rolltop — Best for Weatherproofing
Besnfoto Waterproof Camera Backpack Rolltop Laptop Bag for DSLR Mirrorless
23L capacity (expandable 5-7L)
1.3 kg empty weight
Tarpaulin shell with YKK zippers
16 inch laptop sleeve
Pros
- Tarpaulin shell with YKK water-resistant zippers plus a rain cover
- Rolltop adds 5-7L of extra space for a jacket or snacks
- 7 padded dividers accommodate 2 cameras
- 4-5 lenses
- and a DJI drone
- Side access and full rear opening for anti-theft access
- Padded laptop sleeve fits a 16-inch MacBook Pro
- Waist belt and chest strap distribute weight on long treks
- Luggage pass-through strap for carry-on travel
Cons
- Heavyweight fabric makes the bag feel bulkier when empty
- Rolltop design takes practice if you prefer traditional top zippers
When the weather forecast says 70 percent chance of rain and the trail is 8 miles each way, the Besnfoto Waterproof Rolltop is the pack I trust. After 838 reviews and a 4.6-star average, our testing confirmed what the rating suggests: this is one of the most weatherproof hiking camera backpacks at any price, and the rolltop expansion is genuinely useful.
The tarpaulin shell is the standout. Unlike coated nylon that eventually wets through, tarpaulin beads water off indefinitely, and the YKK water-resistant zippers seal the main compartment tightly. We poured a water bottle over the closed bag, and the interior stayed dry. The included rain cover adds redundancy in sustained storms, which is rare at this tier.
The rolltop closure adds 5-7 liters of capacity, which we used to stash a rain shell, a packed lunch, and a folded fleece. Seven padded dividers organize 2 camera bodies, 4-5 lenses, and a DJI drone kit without crowding. The padded laptop sleeve fits a 16-inch MacBook Pro, the largest in our roundup, and the luggage pass-through strap slides over rolling suitcase handles for travel days.
Side access lets you swing the bag and grab the working camera, and the full rear opening is a nice anti-theft feature in crowded airports or trailheads. The waist belt and chest strap add real load-bearing comfort on long climbs. Trade-offs include a heavier feel when empty due to the tarpaulin fabric, and a learning curve if you have never used a rolltop before. For wet-climate shooters who refuse to baby their gear, the Besnfoto is the best waterproof camera backpack for hiking in our lineup.
For Whom It’s Good
Coastal, rainforest, and tropical photographers who hike in unpredictable weather, plus drone shooters who need padded space for a folding drone kit. Travelers who want one pack for hiking and airline carry-on will appreciate the 16-inch laptop sleeve and luggage pass-through.
For Whom It’s Bad
Minimalist day hikers who want the lightest possible pack should look at the Think Tank BackLight Sprint. Photographers who prefer traditional zippered tops will need a few trips to adapt to the rolltop closure.
4. Lowepro Truckee BP 250 LX — Best for Laptop Travel
Lowepro LP37238-PWW Truckee BP 250 LX Outdoor Camera Backpack, Fits 15 inch Tablet, for Compact DSLR/Mirrorless, for Sony, Canon, Nikon, 1-2 Lenses, Gimbal, Video Drone, DJI, Osmo, Mavic, Light Grey
30L capacity
0.68 kg empty weight
50/50 camera-gear split
Fits 15 inch laptop
Pros
- 50/50 split between camera gear and personal items
- Padded internal pocket fits a 15-inch laptop
- Sternum strap and ventilated wicking mesh back for all-day comfort
- Secure toggle locking zipper on the camera compartment
- Lightweight at roughly 1.5 lbs empty
- Fits a compact DSLR or mirrorless body with 1-2 extra lenses
- Limited Lifetime warranty from Lowepro
Cons
- Limited room for additional accessories in the camera compartment beyond one body and a couple of lenses
- Laptop compartment may be tight for 16-inch MacBooks
- Polyester-heavy build feels less premium than expected at this price
The Lowepro Truckee BP 250 LX is the pack I recommend when someone asks for one bag that handles a laptop, a mirrorless kit, and a day hike. At 30 liters with a true 50/50 split, this pack treats camera gear and travel essentials as equals, which is exactly what most hybrid working photographers need.
The 15-inch padded laptop pocket sits flat against the back panel, where it gets the best protection and weight distribution. The camera compartment on the bottom half holds a compact DSLR or mirrorless body plus 1-2 extra lenses, with a toggle locking zipper that adds a basic theft-deterrent at cafes or hostel lobbies. The wicking mesh back panel kept our testers comfortable on full-day shoots, and the sternum strap stabilizes the load when moving fast.
Weight is a real strength here. At roughly 1.5 lbs empty, this is the lightest 30-liter pack in our roundup, and reviewers consistently note that they forget they are wearing it. The Limited Lifetime warranty is a notable plus over the standard 2-year coverage on most competitors.
The trade-offs are real but fair. The camera compartment is genuinely tight if you try to carry more than one body and two lenses plus filters and a flash. The laptop sleeve will not fit a 16-inch MacBook Pro, so check your laptop size before ordering. The polyester-heavy build feels a touch less premium than the price suggests, though the durability in our tests was solid. For photographers who split their time between a trail, an airport, and a coworking space, the Truckee BP 250 LX is one of the most versatile hiking camera backpacks available.
For Whom It’s Good
Traveling photographers who carry a laptop, a compact mirrorless kit, and need one bag for hiking, flights, and client meetings. Editors who want a lightweight pack for daily commutes with occasional weekend hikes will appreciate the low empty weight.
For Whom It’s Bad
Photographers who need to carry a full-frame DSLR with a battery grip or multiple telephoto lenses will run out of camera space fast. Owners of 16-inch MacBook Pros should size up or use a separate laptop sleeve.
5. Think Tank BackLight Sprint — Best Lightweight Daypack
Think Tank Backlight Sprint Lightweight Slim Camera Daypack Backpack for DSLR, Mirrorless, Photography and Video – Slate Black
15L capacity
1 kg empty weight (2 lbs 5 oz)
Back-panel access
Includes rain cover
Pros
- Back-panel access lets you swap lenses without removing the pack
- Lightweight and slim profile ideal for minimalist hiking photographers
- Front pocket offers 2L of personal gear capacity
- Simplified tripod carry on either side via compression straps
- Includes rain cover which is uncommon at this size
- Comfortable carry even when fully loaded
Cons
- Limited internal pocket organization for small accessories
- Smaller sizes can be tight for larger full-frame bodies like the Nikon Z8
- Tripod carry on the back works less well with compact tabletop tripods
If your idea of a hiking camera backpack is a featherweight daypack that disappears on the trail, the Think Tank BackLight Sprint is the one to beat. At 1 kg empty, it is the lightest pack in our roundup, and after 176 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, our field tests confirmed why so many mirrorless shooters swear by it.
The back-panel access is the signature feature. You swing the bag to your front, unzip the rear panel, and your camera is right there without lifting the bag off the ground. For wildlife shooters who need fast lens changes, this design saves missed shots. The slim 15-liter profile keeps the bag from swinging on technical terrain, and the harness distributes load well for a pack this small.
The included rain cover is a genuine surprise at this price tier. Most lightweight daypacks expect you to buy a cover separately or stuff a trash bag inside. The 2L front pocket holds snacks, a phone, and a layer, and the simplified tripod carry works with most travel tripods using the side pocket and upper compression straps.
The compromises are size-related. The BackLight Sprint runs tight on larger full-frame bodies like the Nikon Z8, and the internal pocket organization is minimal. Reviewers recommend adding a small pouch or filter wallet if you carry many accessories. For pure day-hike minimalism, though, this is one of the best lightweight camera backpacks for hiking we tested.
For Whom It’s Good
Mirrorless shooters who carry one or two lenses, wildlife photographers who need fast lens changes, and anyone doing short day hikes who refuses to carry a heavier pack than necessary. Travel photographers flying light will appreciate the carry-on-friendly size.
For Whom It’s Bad
DSLR users with battery grips or multiple telephoto lenses will outgrow the 15-liter footprint. Photographers who carry lots of accessories, batteries, or filters will need to add organizer pouches.
6. Think Tank DarkLight Tactical — Best Modular Expandable
Think Tank DarkLight 20L Tactical Camera Backpack (Montane Green)
20L capacity (variant)
3.4 lbs (1.54 kg) empty weight
Laser-cut MOLLE panel
Back-panel access
Pros
- Laser-cut MOLLE panel for expanding capacity with pouches and accessories
- Back-panel access keeps gear safe behind your back
- Plush air-mesh harness for comfort and moisture control
- Side pocket and webbing for water bottle or tripod
- Includes rain cover and removable waist belt
- Available in 14L
- 20L
- and 25L size variants
Cons
- Shoulder straps can feel uncomfortable under loads above 37 lbs
- Internal top section is criticized as underutilized
- Water bottle pocket too narrow for a standard Nalgene bottle
- Some quality-control complaints about the MOLLE rubber stretching over time
The Think Tank DarkLight Tactical is the pack for photographers who treat their camera bag like a load-bearing piece of gear. The laser-cut MOLLE panel on the front lets you clip on accessory pouches, a tripod holder, or a first-aid kit, which is why so many wildlife and tactical photographers gravitate to this design.
Back-panel access keeps your gear out of sight when you set the bag down or wear it in a crowd. The plush air-mesh harness spreads weight across the shoulders and back, and the removable waist belt adds stability on uneven terrain. The 20-liter size we tested balanced internal space and external modularity nicely, and the three available sizes (14L, 20L, 25L) let you pick the right volume for your kit.
The included rain cover is a nice plus at this tier. Reviewers consistently mention the rugged build, and our team noted the same: the DarkLight feels ready for off-trail use. The right-side pocket with webbing handles a tripod or a slim water bottle, and the rear panel is well-padded for a tablet.
The honest trade-offs come out under heavy loads. Shoulder straps become uncomfortable above 37 lbs, so telephoto-heavy wildlife kits may push past the comfort zone. The water bottle pocket is too narrow for a Nalgene, which is a real loss on long dry hikes. Some users report MOLLE rubber stretching after a year of heavy use. If you want modular expandability in a hiking camera backpack, though, the DarkLight is hard to beat at this price.
For Whom It’s Good
Wildlife and adventure photographers who want to attach extra pouches, water bottle holders, or tripod accessories via MOLLE. Photographers who carry varying kit sizes will appreciate the three available volume options.
For Whom It’s Bad
Photographers carrying telephoto-heavy loads above 37 lbs will want a pack with a sturdier harness like the Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW. Nalgene-toting hikers will need to attach a side pouch via the MOLLE panel.
7. Lowepro PhotoSport BP 24L AW III — Best Mirrorless Day Hike
Lowepro PhotoSport BP 24L AW III, Hiking Camera Backpack, with Side Access, with Removable Camera Insert, with Accessory Strap System, Blue and Black, for Mirrorless Compatible with Sony α7
24L capacity
3.3 lbs empty weight
Side access
Removable camera insert
Pros
- Toploading compartment with attachment points for tripod and hiking poles
- 24L storage volume balances camera gear and personal items
- Water resistant construction for outdoor conditions
- Side access for quick camera retrieval
- Multiple compartments and pockets for organized packing
- Lightweight nylon construction
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Limited compatibility for larger DSLR bodies beyond mirrorless
- Larger body cameras may not fit the maximum device size comfortably
The Lowepro PhotoSport BP 24L AW III is purpose-built for adventure photographers who carry a mirrorless body and want a pack that handles hiking poles, a tripod, and a full day of gear without feeling oversized. After our testing, this 24-liter pack earned its spot as our top pick for mirrorless day hikers.
The toploading compartment is the practical highlight. You can stash a layer, snacks, and a water bottle on top, and the dedicated attachment points secure hiking poles or a tripod on the outside of the pack. The removable camera insert lets you reconfigure the bag for non-photo days, which is a feature many mirrorless shooters appreciate.
Side access to the camera compartment is fast and intuitive. We swapped from a wide-angle to a telephoto on a moving subject without taking the pack off, which is exactly the workflow mirrorless photographers want. The water resistant shell handled light rain, though the included AW cover is worth deploying for sustained storms.
Empty weight sits at 3.3 lbs, which is heavier than the Think Tank BackLight Sprint but reasonable for a 24-liter pack with a removable insert. The main limitation is fit. Larger DSLR bodies with battery grips do not fit comfortably, and the maximum device size of 7.62 centimeters refers to compatible tablet or laptop dimensions inside the pack. For mirrorless kits, this is one of the best camera backpacks for hiking on the market.
For Whom It’s Good
Mirrorless photographers who want a dedicated daypack for trails with hiking poles or a tripod, plus anyone who values a removable camera insert for non-photo days. Lightweight backpackers who want one pack for hiking and travel will appreciate the 24L volume.
For Whom It’s Bad
DSLR shooters with larger bodies or battery grips should size up to the Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW. Photographers who need a heavier-duty rain cover for serious storms should look at packs with tarpaulin shells like the Besnfoto.
How to Choose the Best Camera Backpack for Hiking
Choosing between camera backpacks for hiking comes down to six factors: capacity, comfort, camera access, weatherproofing, day-hike versus multi-day volume, and whether a dedicated camera pack or a hiking pack with a camera cube insert fits your style better. Here is how we evaluated each factor across our seven picks, plus a few buying tips from our testers.
1. Capacity: Picking Your Liters
Camera backpack capacity is measured in liters, and the right size depends on your kit and your trip length. A 15-20 liter pack handles one mirrorless body, two or three lenses, and a small tripod for day hikes. A 24-30 liter pack fits a full-frame DSLR, a telephoto lens, and room for a layer, food, and water on overnight or longer trips. Anything above 35L is expedition territory.
If you mostly shoot day hikes with one mirrorless body, the Think Tank BackLight Sprint (15L) and TARION PBL (15L) are enough. If you carry a full-frame DSLR with several lenses and occasionally camp overnight, the 30-liter Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW or the 24-liter Lowepro PhotoSport BP 24L AW III fit better. Buying more capacity than you need adds weight, so be honest about your typical day.
2. Comfort and Suspension: Hip Belt, Sternum Strap, and Torso Fit
Camera backpacks that lack a real hip belt and sternum strap will hurt your shoulders after a few miles. Our testers paid close attention to load transfer: does the weight sit on your hips, or does it hang from your shoulders? The Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW and the Besnfoto Rolltop both earned top marks for distributing load across the hips via a true waist belt. The Think Tank BackLight Sprint is light enough to skip the hip belt, but for heavier kits, that belt is non-negotiable.
Torso fit matters too. If the torso length is too long, the hip belt sits above your hips and transfers load back to your shoulders. Most packs we tested run medium torso lengths, so smaller-framed hikers, including many women, may want to look at packs with adjustable torso height. We linked our best hiking backpacks for women guide for further reading on this topic.
3. Camera Protection and Access: ICUs, Dividers, Rear vs Side Access
Camera protection comes down to the padded insert (often called an ICU, or Internal Camera Unit) and how you access it. Modular padded dividers let you reshape the insert for different lens and body combinations. All seven packs in our roundup use padded dividers, and the Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW and Besnfoto Rolltop use deeper, more rigid padding for heavier telephoto kits.
Access style is a workflow decision. Rear-panel access (Lowepro Flipside Trek, Think Tank BackLight Sprint, Think Tank DarkLight, Besnfoto) keeps gear against your back until you need it, which is the most secure option for theft deterrence and weather protection. Side access (Lowepro PhotoSport, TARION PBL, Besnfoto, Lowepro Truckee) lets you grab the camera faster without removing the pack. If you shoot wildlife or street photography, side access saves missed shots. If you travel or shoot in busy areas, rear access keeps gear safer.
4. Weatherproofing: AW Covers, Tarpaulin, and YKK Zippers
Camera backpacks vary widely in weather protection. The Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW and the Think Tank DarkLight include built-in AW (All Weather) rain covers that deploy from hidden pockets. The Besnfoto uses a tarpaulin shell plus YKK water-resistant zippers plus a rain cover, which is the most aggressive weatherproofing in our roundup. The TARION PBL and Lowepro Truckee use water-resistant nylon shells with included rain covers.
If you hike in dry climates, water-resistant nylon with a stowed rain cover is enough. If you shoot in coastal, rainforest, or storm-prone environments, the Besnfoto tarpaulin build is worth the extra weight. For a deeper look at all-weather options, our waterproof backpack guide covers similar builds for cycling commuters.
5. Day-Hike vs Multi-Day Decision
Choosing between a day-hike pack and a multi-day pack depends on how much gear, food, and water you carry. A 15-20 liter daypack like the Think Tank BackLight Sprint or TARION PBL is right if you are out for 4-6 hours with one body, two or three lenses, snacks, and a liter of water. A 24-30 liter pack like the Lowepro PhotoSport BP 24L AW III or Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW is right if you carry a full-frame DSLR with a telephoto, a tripod, plus layers and 2-3 liters of water for a longer day or an overnight trip.
If your trip runs two days or more with overnight camping, you want a true multi-day pack with a frame, hip belt, and serious volume. At that point, our men’s hiking backpack guide or women’s hiking backpack guide covers the larger 50-65 liter options.
6. Camera Backpack vs Hiking Backpack + Camera Cube Insert
One contrarian approach worth considering: use a regular hiking backpack (Osprey Exos, Gregory Stout, etc.) with a camera cube insert like a Tenba BYOB or Lowepro GearUp. This setup gives you a real hiking suspension system with a dedicated padded camera compartment, and many photographers on r/photography and r/backpacks report better comfort than dedicated camera backpacks at the same volume.
The trade-offs: a top-loading hiking pack means digging past your gear to reach the camera, which can mean missed shots, and the bag looks like a hiking pack, which is actually a benefit for solo travelers worried about theft. Our roundup focuses on dedicated hiking camera backpacks, but if comfort is your top priority and you do not mind slower camera access, the hiking-pack-plus-cube route is worth a look. For other hiking gear essentials, our handheld GPS guide and solar backpack guide round out the kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to carry my camera while hiking?
The best way to carry a camera while hiking depends on your kit and trail length. For day hikes with a mirrorless body, a lightweight camera backpack like the Think Tank BackLight Sprint (15L) gives fast access and disappears on the trail. For multi-mile hikes with a DSLR and telephoto, a 24-30L pack with a true hip belt like the Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW distributes load across your hips. For very long trips, pairing a hiking pack with a Tenba BYOB or Lowepro GearUp camera cube gives the best suspension.
What are some good camera backpacks for hiking?
Seven hiking camera backpacks stood out in our testing: Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW (best overall, 30L, built-in AW cover), TARION PBL 15L (best value, fits 2 DSLRs and 6 lenses), Besnfoto Waterproof Rolltop (best weatherproofing, tarpaulin shell), Lowepro Truckee BP 250 LX (best for laptop travel, 50/50 split), Think Tank BackLight Sprint (best lightweight daypack, 1 kg), Think Tank DarkLight Tactical (best modular, MOLLE panel), and Lowepro PhotoSport BP 24L AW III (best mirrorless day hike, 24L with pole attachments).
What size camera backpack do I need?
Size depends on kit and trip length. A 15-20L pack handles one mirrorless body with two or three lenses for a day hike. A 24-30L pack fits a full-frame DSLR with a telephoto plus layers, food, and water for an overnight trip. Above 35L is expedition territory and usually requires a true hiking backpack with a camera cube insert. Most photographers we tested found 24L to be the sweet spot for mixed day and overnight use.
Are camera backpacks waterproof?
Most camera backpacks are water resistant, not fully waterproof. Built-in All Weather (AW) rain covers on packs like the Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW and Think Tank DarkLight add reliable protection in heavy rain. The Besnfoto Waterproof Rolltop uses a tarpaulin shell with YKK water-resistant zippers for the highest level of weatherproofing in our roundup. For storm-prone environments, combine a water-resistant shell with an included rain cover and consider a dry bag liner for sensitive electronics.
Can a camera backpack be carry-on?
Many hiking camera backpacks fit airline carry-on limits, though policies vary. The Think Tank BackLight Sprint, TARION PBL 15L, Besnfoto Rolltop, and Lowepro PhotoSport BP 24L AW III all fit within standard carry-on dimensions. The Lowepro Truckee BP 250 LX is sized for carry-on but check its depth against your airline. The 30L Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW is at the upper limit and may require gate-checking on smaller regional jets. Always measure your laptop sleeve too: 16-inch MacBook Pros need a pack specifically designed for them.
Is a camera backpack good for hiking, or should I use a hiking pack with a camera cube?
Both approaches work, and the right choice depends on your priorities. A dedicated camera backpack like the Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW gives fast rear or side access and built-in camera protection, which is ideal for wildlife and travel shooters. A hiking backpack with a camera cube insert (Tenba BYOB, Lowepro GearUp) gives better suspension and ventilation for very long trails, and the bag looks like a regular hiking pack, which helps with theft deterrence for solo travelers. Reviewers report that the hiking-pack-plus-cube setup wins on long multi-day trips, while dedicated camera backpacks win for fast-paced day shooting.
Final Verdict
After a month of testing on real trails, the Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW stands out as the best camera backpack for hiking in 2026. Its Active Zone suspension, built-in AW rain cover, and flipside access deliver real performance gains on the trail, and the 30-liter volume handles everything from a day hike with a telephoto lens to an overnight backcountry camp.
If you are budget-conscious, the TARION PBL 15L delivers remarkable capacity and a 15.6-inch laptop sleeve at a fraction of the price. If you hike in wet climates, the Besnfoto Waterproof Rolltop is the most weatherproof pack we tested. For mirrorless minimalists, the Think Tank BackLight Sprint disappears on the trail. Pick the pack that matches your kit, your climate, and your typical day, and your next hike will be a lot more fun than hauling a regular camera bag by the shoulder strap.