How to Choose a Camera Backpack for Hiking and Travel
By CameraMall | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: How-to Guides
Use this camera backpack buying guide to find the right pack for hiking and travel. Compare Peak Design, Tenba, and Lowepro based on volume, access, and expandability.
Quick answer
The best camera backpack for hiking and travel balances volume, access, and expandability. Choose a pack that fits your gear load and access style—whether you need quick side access on a trail or a compact bag that expands for longer trips.
Key Trade-Offs: Fixed Volume vs Expandable Design
Some camera backpacks, like the Tenba Axis Backpack v2, come in fixed sizes (24L or 32L), which is straightforward if you know your gear. Others, such as the Peak Design Everyday Backpack v2, can compress or expand via adjustable dividers and magnetic latches, varying height from 20.4 to 24.5 inches. The Peak Design Travel Backpack uses expansion zippers to increase volume. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a consistent shape or the ability to adapt to different loads.
Access points also matter. A hiking camera backpack needs quick access without removing the pack. The Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW II offers four access points (top, sides, back), while the Peak Design Everyday v2 relies on a magnetic top flap. The Tenba Axis v2 typically opens from the back. Consider how often you need to retrieve gear on the move.
How to Decide
- Volume First: Match your gear load: Count your essential camera gear and decide a target volume. The Tenba Axis v2 offers 24L and 32L fixed sizes. The Peak Design Everyday v2 expands from roughly 20L to 30L. The Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW II is a 30L fixed bag. If your kit varies, an expandable bag like the Peak Design Travel Backpack gives you flexibility.
- Access Style: Quick vs Organized: If you need to grab gear without taking the bag off, look for side access. The Lowepro ProTactic has four access points including side and back. The Peak Design Everyday v2 uses a top flap with magnetic latches for fast top access. The Tenba Axis v2 typically opens from the back. For hiking, side access is a major advantage.
- Laptop and Tripod Needs: The Lowepro ProTactic fits a 13" laptop and includes tripod attachments. The Peak Design Everyday v2 and Travel Backpack catalog facts do not mention a dedicated laptop compartment, so verify dimensions. The Tenba Axis v2 also lacks a stated laptop sleeve. If you must carry a laptop, the Lowepro is the only one with a confirmed compartment.
Key Product Details
- Peak Design Everyday Backpack v2: Compressible design with magnetic latches allows height adjustment from 20.4 to 24.5 inches. This adapts to different gear loads and fits better under airline seats or in tight overhead bins.
Peak Design Everyday Backpack v2 - Peak Design Travel Backpack: Expansion zippers increase volume and a zippered partition system creates front/rear dividers. Lets you carry extra layers or souvenirs on the return leg while keeping camera gear organized.
Peak Design Travel Backpack - Tenba Axis Backpack v2: Available in 24L and 32L sizes. Choose the size that matches your typical kit without unnecessary bulk.
Find Your Fit
Best for
- Hikers who need multiple access points and tripod attachment: Lowepro ProTactic
- Travelers who need expandable storage for varied loads: Peak Design Travel Backpack
- Photographers with a fixed kit who want a straightforward fixed-size bag: Tenba Axis v2
Not for
- Minimalist travelers who want a bag that compresses small: choose the Peak Design Everyday v2 instead of the fixed-size Tenba Axis v2
- Anyone who needs a laptop compartment without checking dimensions: Peak Design and Tenba models lack confirmed laptop sleeves
