Last updated on February 19th, 2024
Landscape photography can be amazingly rewarding and also incredibly challenging, especially if you are trying to traverse rugged terrain or hike for long distances. As a landscape photographer, it is important to make sure that your camera gear is well-protected and easy to carry, which is why investing in the best camera backpack for landscape photography is essential.
What Features to Look for When Buying a Landscape Photography Backpack
When looking for the perfect camera bag for landscape photography, there are several features to consider:
Size
It’s essential to have enough room for all of your gear without being too bulky or heavy. Look for bags with adjustable compartments so you can store different lenses, filters, batteries, and other items separately without them taking up too much space.
Comfort
When hiking for long distances or during extended photo shoots, the last thing you want is an uncomfortable bag that causes pain and fatigue. Look for a backpack with adjustable straps, breathable padding, and a cushioned back panel to help your body stay comfortable while carrying all of your gear.
Protection
The best camera bag should have thick padding around the edges and compartments to ensure that nothing gets damaged if you drop it or bang it against something while trekking through the wilderness. Make sure your bag has water-resistant fabric to protect your landscape camera from getting wet if you get caught in a storm.
Best Camera Backpacks for Landscape Photography
1. Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack
The Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack is the perfect companion for any discerning landscape photographer. Developed in partnership with professional photographer Peter McKinnon, this versatile camera backpack offers 35L of storage (expandable to 42L) and all the features you expect from a high-end carrier.
Designed to last and keep your assets safe, it boasts durable water-resistance materials and external gear loops for additional protection against wet weather or challenging terrain.
Inside, removable folding dividers allow you to store clothing and camera gear side by side without fear of scratches or damage. There are also laptop and tablet compartments for taking on digital projects while traveling light.
Thanks to quick side access zippers, you can quickly grab lenses when chasing a dramatic sunset or pull out extra layers when exploring remote locations in colder climes.
With space-saving design elements like tripod holders and water bottle pockets included, there’s no need to leave anything behind when heading out into nature’s beauty — this bag has it all covered. And just like Peter McKinnon’s awe-inspiring body of work, the Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack will inspire confidence that your photos will turn out great each time.
2. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
Discover the perfect companion for your adventurous lifestyle with the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L.
This rugged and expandable carry-on travel backpack is designed to make life on the road easy and comfortable. Its premium build ensures that no matter what terrain you’re heading out into, it can withstand all of Mother Nature’s elements.
Whether you’re packing light for a quick 4-day offsite or taking your photo gear on an extended landscape photography expedition, this bag has you covered.
The zippered top pocket offers quick access for ‘grab-and-go’ items like keys, glasses, passport, etc., while its dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves protect your devices from bumps and sheets during transit.
Additional features such as a 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas shell combined with a 900D waterproof bottom liner will ensure both protection from wind and rain and style when roaming through airports or cities worldwide.
For photographers looking to bring their camera cubes along with them wherever they go, this travel backpack provides better compatibility than ever before — allowing cameras to be quickly taken in or out without having to worry about unzipping the entirety of one’s bag each time they need to whip out a lens.
Its sleek and compact design makes it ideal for the minimalist traveler while still offering plenty of space to store all the essentials you’re likely to need during your travels.
So, if you’re looking for a backpack that offers superior protection and convenience on long and short trips, go no further than Peak Design’s Travel Backpack 45L. It’s the perfect companion for any landscape explorer.
3. MindShift Gear BackLight 36L
Welcome to the MindShift Gear BackLight 36L — a landscape photographer’s dream come true! With its modern design, this bag is perfect for carrying your camera gear on all outdoor adventures.
The back-panel opening provides easy access to all your gear without taking the pack off. Not only does this make it incredibly convenient and efficient to work out of, but it also keeps your harness clean from dirt, mud, or wet conditions.
Plus, plenty of compartments can fit up to a 15″ laptop or 10″ tablet, ensuring you have enough space for whatever you need while out in the field.
This practical backpack has front pockets specifically for personal items, such as an extra layer of clothes and snacks, so you always stay prepared through long days of shooting outdoors.
And what’s more? The MindShift Gear BackLight meets most US and International carry-on requirements, making it easier than ever to travel abroad with photography equipment.
No matter how challenging the terrain, don’t worry about low-quality materials getting damaged — because this unique backpack features YKK RC Fuse zippers & 420D Velocity & 420D high-density nylon fabric to ensure the utmost durability and strength of your equipment. Plus, it also has interior mesh pockets for those small items that need extra care.
So if you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting bag to carry all your camera gear on your next outdoor excursion, look no further than the MindShift Gear BackLight 36L. With its many features, this backpack can make landscape photography much easier and more enjoyable.
4. K&F Concept Alpha Backpack 25L
The Alpha Backpack 25L was designed with the modern landscape photographer in mind.
It’s lightweight yet strong enough to protect your gear and comfortable enough for long distances.
The removable dividers are adjustable, so you can customize the space according to your camera size and the type of camera accessories you’re carrying.
In addition, its padded air mesh panel provides extra comfort while preventing fatigue from setting in during extended shooting sessions. And all this is made possible by its unique H-shaped frame structure that offers additional support without weighing you down.
To top it off, this bag is made from a water-resistant material with an additional seam-sealed rain cover that helps keep your equipment dry even when the weather isn’t cooperating.
So no matter where life takes you next — a mountain expedition or an adventure along coastal cliffs — the Alpha Backpack 25L has everything you need to capture stunning landscapes like never before.
5. Manfrotto PRO Light Flexloader Backpack L
This is a top-of-the-line backpack designed especially for any landscape photographer on the go.
It’s made with highly durable materials like Ripstop and Nylon that are both lightweight and tear-resistant, so you can be sure your gear will remain safe while traveling.
The M-Guard system also provides superior protection for your equipment when heading out into nature, as it has tuck-away straps to secure multiple pro tripods stands and SAS-TEC reinforcement which gives extra shock protection.
Plus, its interchangeable dividers allow you to fit the inside of the bag around all your necessary equipment for easy access when out shooting.
And in case of rain, there’s an included foldout protector between the wet outside environment and dry inside bag space, so you won’t have to worry about moisture ruining any photography sessions.
Lastly, it also fits standard carry-on luggage measurements; now you know why I think this pack is unbeatable for my outdoor needs. So if someone was looking for quality landscape photography supplies or just wanted a reliable backpack they could take anywhere — then look no further than Manfrotto’s PRO Light Flexloader L. You won’t regret it.
6. USA GEAR DSLR Camera Backpack
Capture life’s most breathtaking views with the USA GEAR DSLR Camera Backpack. Built for landscape photography professionals and amateurs alike, this backpack offers tons of customizable storage compartments to protect your gear and keep everything organized on your outdoor adventures.
The metal zippers and reinforced nylon construction ensure that you won’t have any problems accessing or protecting your equipment from the elements.
The top compartment is easily accessible and perfect for holding phone chargers, keys, and other accessories without occupying extra space in the main compartments. And don’t worry about bringing a laptop — a dedicated padded laptop pocket designed to fit up to a 15.6″ device — now you can edit anywhere.
Once everything is packed away, take advantage of side camera access, so nothing stands between those shots you waited all day to get. With an included foot pocket strap and tripod holder, bring steady pictures back home while keeping that Gear secure during transit; no more having to awkwardly balance tripods in different sections of the bag ever again!
Craft every shot like it was taken by Chris Burkard himself with reliable protection from USA GEAR DSLR Camera Backpack — allowing photographers everywhere to tell stories through the lens no matter how far they travel.
Whether you’re a photography pro or an aspiring enthusiast, the USA GEAR DSLR Camera Backpack is designed to house your gear and protect it from any weather Mother Nature throws. So grab your camera and hit the road — the perfect shot awaits.
7. TARION Pro Camera Backpack
If you’re an adventurous landscape photographer looking for a high-quality camera backpack that won’t disappoint you, then the TARION Pro Camera Backpack is your perfect fit.
This large and durable bag boasts plenty of features to help you capture those elusive once-in-a-lifetime shots in any weather.
The spacious interior fits one camera plus five lenses easily packed into proper compartments for maximum protection against bumps and jolts, with removable inner dividers that make organizing your equipment even more accessible.
The side access compartment allows fast access to your gear without having to take off the entire backpack, so you don’t have to miss out on spontaneous moments as they unfold around you.
You can also store a tripod and other accessories in the convenient side pocket, while a separate laptop sleeve provides upholstered protection for devices up to 15.6 inches thick.
The exterior is made from high-density nylon, which is waterproof and resistant to tears when needed. Its reinforced padding on the inside ensures further protection against shocks and external damage during travel or hikes.
Plus, there’s even a waterproof rain cover included, just in case. With ergonomic straps designed for optimum comfort after long trips, this roomy and lightweight backpack is ideal for any outdoor photography enthusiast looking to make their mark.
In a nutshell, the TARION Pro Camera Backpack has all the features to help you capture those perfect shots in any terrain or weather condition.
So why not grab your camera and head out on an adventure with confidence — the TARION Pro Camera Backpack will be there for you every step of the way.
Why Landscape Photographers Need a High-Quality Camera Backpack
Landscape photography is one of the most rewarding genres. There’s nothing like capturing a stunning mountain range, serene lake, or blooming meadow.
But a good landscape photographer knows that they need to invest in proper equipment. Not only do they need a high-quality camera and lenses, but also a sturdy, dependable backpack designed specifically for carrying camera gear safely.
Many generic backpacks won’t provide adequate protection against dust and moisture that can damage delicate camera equipment. A photographer who invests in a reliable, high-quality bag made with reinforced materials, impact-resistant foams, and well-cushioned dividers can rest assured their precious cargo will arrive undamaged no matter where the journey takes them.
Even if you don’t plan on going far from home, you’ll enjoy knowing your gear is secure when you set off on your next outdoor photo mission.
Conclusion
For landscape photographers, having the right camera bag can make all the difference in capturing the perfect shot. Whether you’re looking for a rugged and durable pack for extended expeditions or something more lightweight for quick trips, there’s an option out there that will meet your needs.
The Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack offers maximum storage capacity in a stylish yet hardwearing design, while Peak Design’s Travel Backpack 45L offers superior protection and convenience on long and short trips.
Whichever you choose, these bags are sure to inspire confidence that your photos will turn out great each time. So don’t let Mother Nature get in the way of capturing stunning landscapes — find your perfect landscape camera backpack today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Osprey make a camera bag?
Currently, Osprey doesn’t make camera bags. In the past, they made camera cases but never a full-sized camera backpack for travelers.
Can I use a backpack as a camera bag?
If you’re considering using a regular backpack as a camera bag, it may do the trick in a pinch.
However, a dedicated camera backpack is designed with more specialized compartments and foam cushioning to provide maximum protection while on the move. They also boast easy access to your gear so that you can take photographs when inspiration strikes.
Investing in an ideal camera bag will protect your treasured equipment and make for smoother functioning in the field. You won’t regret having quick access to your essential cameras, lenses, and batteries when it matters most.
What is the best lens for landscape photography?
For the best results in landscape photography, it is important to pick the right lens. While there is no definitive answer on what qualifies as the single best lens for this type of work, a wide-angle (10-22mm) to an ultra-wide-angle (8-16mm) lens can be considered ideal since it allows photographers to capture more of the scene within their frame and make appealing use of foreground for depth and context.
These lenses also produce minimal distortion around the edges and can be great for capturing outdoor scenes giving viewers a breathtaking panoramic experience.
Meanwhile, it’s vital that you investigate quality as much as specs when narrowing down your purchase: look at reviews, visit specialized forums, and do plenty of research before making a commitment.
Which camera brand is best for landscape photography?
If you’re looking to capture the breathtaking beauty of a landscape, it’s crucial to have a good camera.
Canon, Nikon, and Sony all offer exceptional lenses and advanced features to help you get the perfect shot.
Canon has modern autofocus technology that can pick out the details you want in your picture quickly and accurately, like a tree in an ocean background.
Nikon has tilt-shift lenses that make it easy to adjust focus points for customized shots subtly.
Sony’s Alpha cameras are designed for high image quality and speed in any light condition, making your photographs look brilliant even in difficult shooting situations.
Each of these brands provides reliable lenses and features that any professional or amateur photographer would appreciate when capturing the majesty of nature.
What’s the best camera backpack for landscape photography?
When it comes to choosing the best camera backpack for landscape photography, our top recommendations are the Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack and Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L.
Both of these bags provide an impressive level of protection, comfort, and convenience that any photographer will be sure to appreciate. The Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack features a dual lock buckling system that can support up to 30kg of gear, plus it has adjustable and customizable dividers for optimal storage and organization.
On the other hand, The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offers up to five access points with its full-grain leather straps and two main roll-top compartments that can fit two laptops as well as four lenses at once.
These backpacks also both feature a water-resistant construction with weatherproof zippers to make sure your equipment stays safe even in rough terrain or inclement weather conditions. In short, choosing either of these versatile bags is a great way to keep all your most crucial photography gear organized and secure while you travel.
Liya Kravchenkin is an experienced portrait photographer. She has worked with clients worldwide and has even traveled to more than 50 countries. Liya loves photography because it allows her to capture a moment that can never be repeated. Liya also enjoys traveling, learning about new cultures, and seeing the world’s unique natural wonders. Her favorite travel memories are from swimming with dolphins in the Galapagos and eating cheesecake in New York City.
