5 Compact Photography Backpack Recommendations
[Last updated: Dec 19, 2024]
Looking for a cool and practical camera backpack that won't weigh you down?
Here are my top five recommendations for photographers who want something compact and easy to carry on the go:
Compact Camera Backpacks for Photographers
1. Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L
Weight:1.66kg
Material: Weatherproof Recycled Nylon
Why I Love It: This backpack is all about quality and style. It's perfect for everyday use and keeps your gear safe from the elements.
2. Wandrd Prvke 31L
Why It's Great: Stylish and smart, the Wandrd Prvke 31 L backpack is a hit with travelers and photographers. It's slim, comfy, and keeps your gear secure.
3. Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack
Volume: 35L – 42L
What's Cool: Need more space? The Nomatic McKinnon backpack has you covered. It's versatile, roomy, and can fit all your camera gear with ease.
4. Lowepro Slingshot Edge 250 AW
Features: This sling-style Lowepro Edge 250 AW backpack offers quick access to your gear while keeping it secure. It is compact, lightweight, and designed for photographers on the move.
5. Think Tank Photo TurnStyle 5 V2.0
Key Features: A versatile sling bag, the Think Tank TurnStyle 5 V2.0 can be worn as a cross-body bag or as a waist pack. It is compact, stylish, and perfect for carrying essential gear during short photography outings.
Adventure Photography Backpacks (40L+)
For photographers needing a larger capacity for multi-day hiking and camping, here are specialized options that combine camera storage with ample space for outdoor gear:
Atlas Packs Adventure (35-60L)
This backpack has expandable capacity perfect for 1-2 day camping trips
Side-access camera compartment
Weather-resistant construction
Dedicated tripod and water bottle holders
Fits pro bodies with 70-200mm lenses attached
Removable camera insert for pure hiking use
Peak Design Travel 45L
Weatherproof 400D nylon construction
Fits full-frame cameras with 70-200mm attached
Integrated tripod carry
Expandable for camping gear
Shimoda Explore V2 60L
This backpack has weather-resistant materials with included rain cover
Side and rear camera access
Dedicated hydration pocket
Robust harness system for heavy loads
Modular internal organization
These larger packs are ideal for photographers who need to carry both camera gear and camping equipment for overnight outdoor adventures.
They offer more specialized features for outdoor use compared to everyday camera bags.
Compact Neck/Shoulder Bags for Kodak WPZ2
Black Camera Shoulder Bag
This bag comes with a dedicated compartment designed to fit the Kodak WPZ2 camera.
The strap allows you to wear it cross-body or over the shoulder.
Elonbo Waterproof Camera Case
This waterproof carrying case is lightweight, compact and could potentially be worn with the strap around the neck for the WPZ2's small size.
It provides great protection.
Canboc Travel Case
Another option, the Canboc case is designed for the WPZ2 and is portable with an anti-fall design.
The strap may work for neck/shoulder wear.
While not dedicated neck pouches, the compact size of these cases/bags made for the WPZ2 could allow them to be worn comfortably around the neck using the included straps.
Just ensure you check the dimensions carefully.
BONUS
Shimoda Urban Explore 30L
The Shimoda Urban Explore 30L is a versatile and well-designed backpack that caters perfectly to the needs of photographers who spend a lot of time in urban environments.
With its removable camera insert, dedicated tripod/gimbal pockets, and laptop compartment, it's the perfect companion for your photography kit.
For Everyday Carry: Stylish Camera Sling Bags
Sometimes you don't need a big backpack and just want a compact bag for your camera and daily essentials like phone, wallet, and keys.
That's where camera sling bags come in handy.
For a stylish look, consider a white or light-colored sling bag.
They look great with different outfits and add a touch of style.
Top White/Light Sling Bag Picks
Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L (Ash Gray Color)
This slim light camera bag has a simple yet practical design.
It has thick padding and movable dividers inside to keep your mirrorless camera gear safe.
The 6L size can fit a mirrorless camera with lens attached, plus 2-3 extra lenses or small accessories.
It also has a separate sleeve to carry a tablet or 14-inch laptop for everyday use.
Lowepro Streetline 180 (Charcoal Gray)
A compact sling bag with a dedicated camera compartment for mirrorless/small DSLR cameras.
It also has pockets for personal items.
BAGSMART Camera Sling Bag (Light Grey)
An affordable light grey option that can fit a mirrorless camera with 1-2 lenses, plus space for items like a tablet.
Additional Recommendations:
Manfrotto Manhattan Mover-50 Backpack
The Manfrotto Manhattan has a dedicated laptop compartment that fits up to a 16" MacBook Pro
Removable camera insert to organize and protect your gear
Versatile design with multiple access points and pockets
Thule Covert DSLR Rolltop Backpack
This Thule backpack provides quick access to your gear
Padded laptop compartment fits up to a 16" laptop
Removable camera insert and dedicated tripod carry
These additional backpacks are all well-suited for photographers who need to carry both a 16-inch MacBook Pro and their camera equipment.
They offer features like dedicated laptop sleeves, removable camera inserts, and comfortable, versatile designs to keep your gear safe and accessible on the go.
Simple, Adjustable Camera Straps
Based on frequent reader requests for simple, affordable camera strap options, here are some recommendations.
In addition to compact backpacks and sling bags, a good adjustable camera strap is an important accessory for photographers.
When you don't want to carry a full bag, having a simple strap allows you to comfortably wear your camera hands-free.
For a basic, no-frills camera strap around 1-1.5cm wide made from durable nylon/synthetic material, here are some top picks:
Top Picks for Simple Nylon Camera Straps
1. Urth Core Camera Strap Slim
Made from 20mm (1.5cm) recycled nylon webbing
Adjustable buckle to customize length
Secure pebble clips to attach to cameras
Around $30-40
2. Canpix Soft Nylon Strap
Simple 1-inch nylon strap
Well-reviewed and affordable at around $9
Available in different colors
Vintage-Inspired Straps
3. Nikon OEM Leather Straps
Old stock 1cm wide leather straps originally for Nikon 1 cameras
Vintage look at only $10 each
4. Tarion Vintage Camera Strap
Stylish cotton/PU weave with vintage aesthetics
Affordable under $8 option
5. Camera Strap Vintage 100cm Nylon Climbing Rope Camera
Made from durable nylon climbing rope
Length of 100cm (39 inches)
Vintage styling with metal rings
Budget-friendly option around $7
No matter your preference, these simple, adjustable camera straps allow you to comfortably carry your camera hands-free without the bulk of a larger bag.
Holster & Toploader Camera Bags: Easy Access On-the-Go
While camera backpacks give you plenty of room for all your gear, sometimes you just need quick access to your camera and lens.
That's where holster and toploader-style bags come in handy.
Holster bags are designed to let you easily pull out your camera while keeping it securely attached to your body.
The bag sits on your hip or slings across your chest, putting your camera within easy reach.
Toploader bags work in a similar way but are worn more like a mini backpack.
The top opens up fully so you can slide your camera in and out without having to take off the whole bag.
Both styles make it super convenient to rapidly switch between carrying your camera and taking pictures.
They're a popular choice for street photographers, event shooters, and travelers who need their cameras ready to go.
Affordable Holster Bag Options
If you're on a budget, the Ape Case ACPRO800 Compact Holster Camera Case is a great value at around $20-30.
It has enough space for most DSLR/mirrorless bodies with a 100-400mm lens attached.
Other inexpensive holster bags worth considering are the Amazon Basics Holster Camera Case or the Case Logic CPL-109 DSLR Camera Holster Case.
Just double-check that your camera/lens combo will fit inside.
Top Toploader Bag Picks
For toploader bags, it's hard to beat the classic Lowepro Toploader series for quality and versatility.
The Lowepro Toploader Pro 70 AW III can hold a DSLR with 24-70mm f/2.8 lens attached.
If you want to save some cash, check out the Ape Case ACPRO625 Compact Toploader Camera Case.
Both offer solid protection without breaking the bank.
The main benefits of the holster and Toploader bags are their easy access design, compact size, and ability to securely carry your camera at your side.
They make a perfect companion to a larger camera backpack for times when you want to travel light but keep your gear close by.
And That’s It
These backpacks come in different sizes to suit your needs, whether you're an everyday shooter or need to carry a lot of gear.
Choose one that fits your stuff and matches your style - the right backpack can make a big difference in how you carry your gear.
I hope that helps.
Let me know if you have any questions!
-Hakan.