TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR

As a professional travel photographer, I get a lot of questions about what’s the best camera backpack for hauling your photo gear around. These are my favorites, and why.

Let’s be honest. Most tourists these days take photos with their smartphones, or maybe a compact travel camera. They don’t need a dedicated camera bag.

But what if you travel internationally with a ton of photography equipment like me? Or take your gear hiking?

Multiple cameras, lenses, a drone, etc. Maybe photography is your passion, or you run a YouTube channel, or work as a professional photographer?

You probably want a specialty photography backpack to pack that expensive gear safely and securely. I prefer traveling with a dedicated carry-on friendly camera backpack, and have spent the last few years trying out all kinds of different camera bags.

But what’s the best camera backpack for storing and traveling with your photo gear?

There’s no easy answer to this question. Different people will have different requirements and budgets for choosing a good camera backpack.

My goal with this camera backpack buyers guide is to help you narrow down the overwhelming choices — and pick the perfect camera backpack so you’re prepared for your next trip.

Why listen to me? Experience! I’ve been traveling around the world for ten years as a professional travel photographer, licensing images to brands like National Geographic.

Matthew KarstenThe Expert Vagabond

Here’s everything we’re going to cover (feel free to click to a specific section if you want to skip around).

Ultimate Camera Backpack Buyer’s Guide

Quick Answer: Best Camera Backpacks Of 2021

Backpack

Description

Price

Best Camera Backpack For Travel

Peak Design Travel Backpack

• FEATURES: Rear & Side loading, comfortable, durable, lockable zippers.
• WEIGHT: 4.5 LBS (2 KG)
• CAPACITY: 30-45L

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Best Urban Camera Backpack

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

• FEATURES: Top & side loading, comfortable, minimalist.
• WEIGHT: 4.65 LBS (2.1 KG)
• CAPACITY: 30L

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Important Camera Backpack Features

WEIGHT – Obviously you want the lightest camera backpack you can find that’s also comfortable, because this will save your body from fatigue. The materials a backpack is made of can also affect its weight, and super light-weight fabrics can increase the price.

SIZE & CAPACITY – Backpack sizes are usually quoted in liters of volume they can hold. Generally, camera backpacks are going to run between 20-40 liters. However some adventure camera backpacks are designed to carry hiking & camping gear too, and can run 45-60 liters.

GEAR PROTECTION – The whole purpose of a specialized camera backpack over a regular bag is to help protect your expensive gear, while making it easily accessible too. Some bags go over the top with too much padding which adds to the overall weight.

SIDE/REAR LOADING – Camera backpacks are usually rear-loading, meaning you need unzip a panel on the back of the bag to access your photo gear. Some camera bags also offer side entry, so you can pull your camera out without taking off your backpack.

STRAP TYPES – A padded waist strap distributes the weight of your backpack on your core, instead of just your shoulders. This helps avoid sore shoulders and back pain, especially when wearing it for long periods of time. Especially handy for camera backpacks.

GEAR POCKETS – This is subjective, and everyone is different, but I prefer a minimal amount of pockets on my camera backpack. Some important ones include a quick-access pocket for things like keys, passport, sunglasses, etc. I also love when there’s a laptop pocket, and one for my filtered water bottle.

ZIPPERS – I prefer large, easy to use zippers on a backpack. Bonus points if they’re lockable zippers, specifically designed to be secured with a small luggage lock.

PROPER FIT – You could have the best travel backpack available, but if it doesn’t fit right, you’ll be miserable. Your torso length is more important than your height. Here’s a great backpack fitting guide.

LOOKS – Some camera backpacks are built to look like normal backpacks, others scream “there’s an expensive camera in here!”. I prefer a more subtle & minimalist look, but it’s ultimately up to you how important looks are.

WEATHER RESISTANCE – The material a backpack is made of can determine how weather-resistant it is. Some backpacks need a special rain-cover, others have rain-resistance built right in. You don’t want your gear getting wet!

CARRY-ON FRIENDLY – Airlines are getting stricter about the size and weight of your carry-on bag. As a general rule, I wouldn’t try to bring anything larger than a 40L camera backpack for carry-on luggage to be safe.

What Kind Of Photographer Are You?

When choosing a camera backpack, it’s important to have a general idea about how you plan to use it. Generally, I split photographers up into some different categories.

If you don’t lug a ton of photo equipment around, a small discreet camera backpack that you can carry-on an airplane and walk around a city with will do just fine. However, if you’re a professional photographer with lot of camera gear, or go on overnight treks with a lot of hiking & camping gear — you might want a larger adventure-style camera backpack.

Travel Photographers

Most typical travel photographers are going to want to keep their camera equipment on the plane with them in a camera backpack that’s not too big, and will look good when walking around the streets of Paris or Rome. They might embark on the occasional day hike too, but won’t need to fit camping gear inside their bag.

Adventure Photographers

Adventure photographers spend a lot of time shooting in the mountains, deserts, and jungles. Maybe they prefer visiting more remote destinations, and need space in their bag for a sleeping bag and tent. They pack their own multi-day backpacking and camping equipment to survive outside in the backcountry.

The camera backpack you choose from the guide below will depend on what kind of photographer you are (or think you’re going to be).

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Top 6 Camera Backpacks For Photographers

1. Peak Design Travel Backpack – Matt’s Top Pick

Weight: 4.5 LBS (2 KG)
Capacity: 30-45 Liters
Load Range: 20-40 LBS
Colors: Black, Sage
Best For: Travel & Day Hiking
Price: Click Here For Latest Price

The best designed camera backpack I’ve tested so far, the Peak Design Travel Backpack has loads of space, makes it easy to access your gear, and the quality is fantastic. It was designed as a carry-on travel bag, but works amazing well as a camera backpack too when paired with camera-specific packing cubes (which come in different sizes).

You can adjust the size of the bag from 30L to 45L depending on your travel needs. Backpack straps can all be hidden super fast, which is awesome. Accessing your photo gear is super easy and fast, it’s comfortable to carry, and it protects your equipment while traveling or hiking. There’s a dedicated laptop pocket too.

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2. Peak Design Everyday V2 – Urban Camera Backpack

Weight: 4.65 LBS (2.1 KG)
Capacity: 22-30 Liters
Load Range: 20-40 LBS
Colors: Black, Grey, Blue
Best For: Travel & Day Hiking
Price: Click Here For Latest Price

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack is a popular walk-around camera bag that’s great for lugging your camera equipment around cities, for day hikes, or as a carry-on camera backpack. The material looks great but is pretty weather resistant too.

It has three points of entry into the bag. From the top, as well as two side flaps for easy access to your camera gear without needing to remove the backpack completely. The MagLatch system leaves part of the bag open on the sides, because there’s no drawstring closure.

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3. McKinnon Camera Pack – Stylish Camera Backpack

Weight: 5.75 LBS (? KG)
Capacity: 35-42 Liters
Load Range: 20-40 LBS
Colors: Black
Best For: Travel & Day Hiking
Price: Click Here For Latest Price

The Peter McKinnon Camera Pack from Nomatic is the perfect bag for every adventure. It allows you to pack camera gear and clothing in the same bag. With removable folding dividers, expansion, and external carry straps it allows you to pack it any way you want.

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4. LowePro Whistler 350 – Adventure Camera Backpack

Weight: 5.6 LBS (2.5 KG)
Capacity: 30 Liters
Load Range: 30-40 LBS
Colors: Grey
Best For: Outdoor Adventure Photography
Price: Click Here For Latest Price

The LowePro Whistler 350 has been my favorite travel camera backpack for years now! The special TPU coating can take a lot of abuse from the elements, and a large easy-to-use zipper allows you to open the camera compartment quickly, even with gloves on. The newer versions have a laptop pocket too.

It holds a deceptively large amount of gear, and I regularly carry it on airplanes loaded down with 30-40 lbs (don’t tell the airlines!). There’s a large front pocket to pack your lunch, a jacket, or even avalanche equipment. External gear straps can hold snowshoes, a snowboard, skis, your tripod, or anything you need.

LowePro also makes a larger 450 model, but it’s too big for airline carry-on.

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5. Strohl Mountain Light – Adventure Photography Backpack

Weight: 2.2 LBS (1 KG)
Capacity: 45 Liters
Load Range: 30-50 LBS
Colors: Black, Blue
Best For: Outdoor Adventure Photography
Price: Click Here For Latest Price

From day hikes to overnights, the Strohl Mountain Light Backpack was designed by professional photographer Alex Strohl to be lightweight and nimble. Constructed using rugged custom materials, taped seams, and thoughtful external storage.

The backpack is weatherproof and adaptable to any type of mission you can think of. Quick Back panel access and a compact camera unit allow easy camera carry and fast access. It’s also the lightest camera backpack in this guide!

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6. F-Stop Anja – Mountain Series Camera Backpack

Weight: 3.75 LBS (1.7 KG)
Capacity: 40 Liters
Load Range: 30-50 LBS
Colors: Black, Green, Orange
Best For: Outdoor Adventure Photography
Price: Click Here For Latest Price

The rugged and weather proof F-Stop Anja Backpack was created for adventure photographers who need to pack hiking & camping gear along with their photo gear. At 40-liters it’s still airline carry-on approved for most airlines too.

It has an internal aluminum frame for support, waist belt, and comfortable shoulder straps. It comes with a Slope Medium ICU for holding a professional DSLR with an attached lens & other gear. However there are other ICU sizes available depending on the amount of gear you need to carry.

Its outer shell is fully water resistant, features plenty of small pockets for extra storage and it is hydration system compatible. There’s also a 13″ laptop compartment, quick-access top pocket, and plenty of attachment points for adventure gear like skis or ice axes.

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What’s In My Camera Bag?

Take a peek inside my camera bag to learn what I pack with me on my travel photography adventures around the world.

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FAQ: Top Camera Backpack Questions

Well, I hope you learned a little bit more about the different kind of travel cameras available, and are able to choose one that fits your budget and needs.

Happy travels, and let me know which camera model you decide to pick for your next vacation! ★

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Good lighting can make or break a scheme, but is often an afterthought. And, with a living area, there’s lots to consider. Finding the right balance of lighting is crucial when it comes to creating the right ambience for living rooms.

From spots to chandeliers, table to floor lamps, getting your living room lighting scheme just right can be complicated. Whether you’re looking to add mood or light up your WFH corner, we asked our favourite lighting experts to shed a little light on the subject.

Living room lighting ideas

Your ambient living room ideas will take the form of a principal light. For good distribution use a pendant, chandelier or spotlights – plus any natural light from windows, doors or skylights. You can then add your task lighting, which is especially useful if you’re also using your living room as a home office, or a place to settle with a good book. Adjustable desk lamps and table lamps both fall into this category.

Aside form the style of lighting you might also want to think about what colour light is best for a living room. Soft or warm white bulbs have a more traditional, cosy feel and are a good way to make a larger room feel relaxed and welcoming. Cool white light, on the other hand, is more energising, and probably better if you have an open-plan space incorporating a kitchen and dining area. 

What are the main types of living room lighting?

Image credit: Future PLC

‘There are three distinct types of lighting; task, ambient and accent,’ explains Simon Wallis-Smith, Director and Designer at Fritz Fryer

‘It will help you to choose the correct lighting if you understand the difference between these: task lighting, such as desk lights or spotlights, has a practical purpose; ambient lighting- wall lights, table and floor lamps, and dimmable ceiling lights- creates constant lighting, while accent lighting captures features, creates drama or alters atmosphere’

‘The best schemes include multiple layers of lighting, all doing their bit to create desired levels of illumination and flexibility,’ Simon adds.

How to use living room ceiling lights

1. Pick the perfect pendant

Image credit: Habitat

‘Investing in a feature ceiling light helps to transform your space in two ways: it draws the eye upwards and opens the space up, and tricks the eye into thinking that the space is bigger than it is,’ says Natalie.

‘It’s not always necessary to opt for an overhead light,’ says Jo, ‘but comes down to design preference and how you plan to use the room.’

Simon loves an overhead chandelier: ‘They’re great in a room with high ceilings.’

Buy now: Easton 5 Light Opal Chandelier, £110, Habitat

2. Add on-trend texture with woven pendant shades

Image credit: George Home

‘The right lighting can completely change the look and atmosphere of a room,’ says Simon. Changing a light shade can be transformative to a rooms decor. Not to mention simple and cost effective.

Buy now: Natural Corn Husk Pendant Shades, £25 each, George Home

3. Make a statement with a lighting sculpture

Image credit: Future PLC/ David Parmiter

Contemporary lighting can serve as a striking focal point in a living room. If you are blessed with high ceilings, you can really go to town with dramatic and angular fixtures. This owner didn’t let her home’s distinctive Victorian character stop her from indulging in her love of up-to-the-minute design, and picked a modern three-arm take on a chandelier.

She has cleverly chosen fixtures and fittings – such as the picture ledge side table and shelves – with strong black lines to bring cohesion to the look.

4. Go glam with a glass droplet chandelier

Image credit: Future PLC

Chandeliers might not be as popular as they were ten years ago, when shabby chic fixtures were all the rage. But they can still be a classy and contemporary lighting option. To bring them up to date, pair them with a scheme that’s rich in deep jewel colours such as amethyst purple, sapphire blue and emerald green, and brass and bronze-finished furniture and accessories.

When used as a central lighting choice, it may be that you hardly use this as your lighting option – it can be there to provide more of a decorative purpose. A top tip when choosing chandelier is to opt for a dimmer switch, to allow you to control how bright the light is. Use to the nature of having multiple arms, these designs can often be very bright.

5. Match with a coordinated theme

Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes

The best way to make all your living room lights blend seamlessly, without being too matchy-matchy is by coordinating a theme. The overhead here is a stylist glass take on a traditional Fishermans pendant, and while the task lamp doesn’t ‘match’ its white enamel design has a subtle coastal vibe. Both sit naturally amongst the decor of soft blue hues, with natural linen textures and seaside mementos. When all the lighting elements work together it helps to create a more thoughtful decorating scheme, where the lighting enhances the look – rather than dominates.

How to use living room lamps

6. Create a cosy atmosphere within open-plan layouts

Image credit: Original BTC

‘By creating light and shade areas, you can have cosier spaces within a large area. Mix up the layers of light, highlight architectural features with accent lighting and don’t over-light ares that don’t need illuminating.’ says Simon Wallis-Smith, Director and Designer at Fritz Fryer.

‘Look at your room and decide where function lighting is needed and mood lighting is required’ advises Natalie Mann, New Product Development Co-Ordinator at Iconic Lights. ‘There’ll be some crossover between the two, so dimmer switches will give flexibility to switch between function and mood lighting.’

7. Mismatch lamp shades to make a style statement

Image credit: Pooky

Do all lamp shade sin a room have to match? ‘No,’ says Jo Aynsley, Designer Director at Jeffries Interiors of Edinburgh ‘unless they are a matching pair. For wall lights though, it’s best to match.’

Natalie Mann, New Product Development Co-Ordinator at Iconic Lights, adds, ‘It’s important to work out what kind of light you want. The weight and colour of the shade will impact the amount and tone of light emitted. If you want brightness, consider mesh shades or glass. Or dispense with shades and go for exposed bulbs- Edison-style.’

Buy now: Large Stucco Table Lamp, £120, Pooky

8. Illuminate alcoves and dark corners

Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes

If you have a dark corner, such as an alcove beside a fireplace a lamp can prove invaluable. This helps to illuminate the space, to make the room feel bigger and add depth. It can also help to make it feel more characterful after dark, as the shadows play with the space to create interest in contrast to the light bouncing directly off a flat wall.

You can chose to direct the light slightly more into the alcove, as opposed to shining it directly outwards – as desired.

9. Shed light on a reading corner with an oversize adjustable lamp

Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles

For a quiet moment with a book, select an enormous Anglepoise-style lamp with a flexible arm and head to direct the light exactly where you need it. This large-scale design can also create the perfect spotlight for any budding entertainers at family gatherings.

10. Play with scale

Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme

‘Think about the size of the room and scale of chosen design’ advises Suzy McMahon, buying director at Sofology. ‘The addition of a large floor lamp can draw the eye, adding personality and making a statement.’

‘However, for smaller rooms, consider floor lamps with slim bases that won’t take up too much space; these also offer a way to light darker corners and hallways without being imposing.’

11. Bring symmetry and order with matching table lamps

Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore

Take a tip from the interior designers and double up for a more professional, put-together look for a living room. Two identical table lamps used either side of the sofa can really anchor a scheme, especially when set on matching tables, with the colour of the lamp bases picked out again in cushions and other details.

12. Add colour and pattern with a mix-and-match lampshade and base

Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore

The right table lamp can brighten up a room even when it’s turned off. The trick here is to mix pattern with block colour and to take two contrasting colours to come up with a combo that really pops. For a more coordinated look, reflect the same colours in combination elsewhere – here, you’ll see them echoed in the sofa and cushions.

13. Welcome fashionable flex

Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore

The lamp flex – AKA the cable that runs to the plug socket – is having a moment. No longer the poor cousin to a a flashier shade or even bulb, it’s being allowed to make its own style statement with colour and pattern. Here, a blush pink flex stands out against a simple glass base and graphic monochrome shade, and coordinates with carefully chosen ceramics.

14. Match your lighting to the furniture

Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore

Despite its importance, lighting can often look like an afterthought. Avoid this (even if it is the case!) by picking lighting in a colour that perfectly matches a key room feature. In this case, it’s a sofa, but it could be your curtains, wallpaper or a rug. Suddenly, your lighting choice looks very deliberate and put together – who would know?

15. Mix materials

Image credit: Sofology

‘Choosing designs with mixed materials such as metal and glass adds texture whilst keeping the look contemporary’ advises Suzy McMahon at Sofology. ‘Although it’s not necessary to match a light’s materials to other pieces in the room, it’s worth opting for styles that complement each other for a cohesive décor scheme.’

‘For example, if your wallpaper features a lot of green, selecting a lampshade in a similar colour will tie the look together.’

Ideas for living room wall lights

16. Keep wall lights simple and sophisticated

Image credit: Fritz Fryer

‘Wall lights are a great addition to a living room,’ says Natalie. ‘They act as a much softer alternative to an overhead light and add visual interest to the walls.’ Keep the design simple and understated for a sophisticated finish.

Simon adds, ‘Wall lights are great for an ambient tone in a room. They create a low level of light and bring out features in a room. It’s all about balancing the layers.’ Jo says wall lights should match, ‘and we prefer downlighters rather than up uplighters.’

Buy now: Ledbury Ribbed Glass Wall Light, £189.25, Fritz Fryer

17. Mimic natural light with wall lights

Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme

Placement is an all important factor when it comes to lighting, for any room. With living rooms especially because you are likely to use the room all throughout the day, therefore mimicking the natural light with well-placed lighting options is a favourable idea.

In this bright and airy living room space the wall lights are placed directly above the skylight which floods the room with down light during the day. The wall lights will help to replace/mimic that light once it’s dark outside, giving the room a familiar ambient feel to that of the light during the day.

18. Free up space by thinking vertically

Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore

Who says all lamps having to sit on side tables? Opting for a lamp that can be wall-mounted allows you the freedom to move secondary furniture around more freely, such as side tables. It also means the space isn’t taken up, preventing you using the surface for cups, vases, books etc.

19. Use the walls to allow more focused lighting

Image credit: Nick Smith

Wall lighting provide the perfect way to create a more directional approach with fixed lighting. Choosing wall lights with adjustable rams allows you to concentrate pools of light exactly where you want them to shine, a great characteristic in open-plan living spaces.

As we see in the example above a seating area is well zoned within the open-plan living and dining space. Even when the lights are not in use you immediately know where the point of focus is, thanks to the positioning of the lights poignantly pointed towards a plush, comfy sofa.

Alternative living room light ideas

20. A well placed reading light

Image credit: John Lewis and Partners

As well as being highly practical, an eye-catching floor reading light also adds a contemporary note. Lighting a corner of your living room can give your space a whole new purpose. This type of light delivers a more direct concentrated lighting – perfect for creating a cosy reading corner or a quiet place for crafts.

21. Introduce natural light with skylights

Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore

You might think adding roof lights is a huge structural undertaking, but it can be surprisingly easy – especially if you only opt to add one or two. However, the transformation will be instant and dramatic. Velux is a good place to start your research – and if you’d prefer a larger roof lantern, try Apropos.

Natalie adds, ‘Getting the balance right between natural light and fitted lamps can be tricky, so think about what exactly you need.’

22. Make a grown-up display of string lights

Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore

Fairy lights don’t have to be exclusive to Christmas trees and kids’ rooms. Pick the right design and they can be used tastefully to light up a dark corner. Cotton ball string lights like these are ideal – provided you stick to tones like white, taupe or soft grey, you’re on to a style winner.

23. Complement lights with lanterns

Image credit: David Brittain

For a relaxed vibe, nothing beats candlelight – and popping said candles inside a lantern will reduce the dangers associated with a naked flame. For total safety, you could even consider using LED candles instead, as once they are inside the lantern, you’ll barely notice a difference.

Rustic washed designs like these work beautifully in a coastal-themed living room – a polished aluminium would work just as well.

The average modern living room will boast at least two different lighting options. From statement ceiling pendants to smart spot lights to provide the main overhead lighting. Accompanied by either floor standing light or side table task lamps to more directional wall lights to create an undertone, proving a more ambient option rather than the main lights.

How do I choose a light for my living room?

Lighting will set the tone of a living room and should never to be underestimated – though sadly, it often is. It might help to think of lighting a room in the same way you’d dress a bed.

With a bed, you start with the basics – a sheet, duvet and pillows, and then add to them with cushions and throws. Similarly, when you’re lighting a room, you start with the primary level of lighting, ambient lighting, and then add in task lighting where you need it.

Jo Aynsley, Designer Director at Jeffries Interiors of Edinburgh says it’s important to recognise how lighting makes us feel: ‘It affects us both physically and psychologically. Good lighting  can improve our mood and energy levels. While poor lighting can contribute to depression and affect concentration, sleep, appetite and even our eyesight.’

How do I get mood lighting in my living room?

‘Dimmers can give you good control of light levels in a room,’ says Jo Aynsley.

Natalie Mann, New Product Development Co-Ordinator at Iconic Lights, agrees: ‘Whether they’re wall-mounted dimmable switches or touch lamps with three settings, being able to dim your lights or make them brighter makes for a comprehensive set up.’

It’s about being flexible, explains Simon Wallis-Smith, Director and Designer at Fritz Fryer. ‘Warming up the colour temperature of a light will create depth and a more atmospheric mood. Whereas a cooler light temperature will bring energy levels back up in the room.

‘Successful schemes include lots of layers and the flexibility to individually control each layer, by either dimming or turning on and off.’

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