I have been carrying a camera and a hiking pack up mountains, through rainstorms, and along dusty trails for over a decade. Finding the best backpacks for hiking with camera gear changed how I shoot outdoors. After dozens of trail tests and hundreds of miles, I have narrowed down ten solid options that balance protection, comfort, and weight for any photographer who refuses to leave the trail.
In this guide, I cover ten camera backpacks I have personally field-tested or researched deeply for trail use. You will see lightweight daypacks, hardshell protection models, and a few premium tactical designs. I have included specs, pros and cons, and real-world notes from trail use. If you are also carrying a drone alongside your camera, my guide to the 8 Best Camera Backpacks for Drone Gear pairs nicely with this list. For broader hiking-focused recommendations, the 12 Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking Expert Reviews is a strong companion read.
Top 3 Picks for Best Backpacks for Hiking with Camera Gear (September 2026)
Think Tank Backlight Sprint
- Slim 15L design
- Back-panel access
- Lightweight 2 lbs 5 oz
- Rain cover included
PGYTECH OneMo TAC 35L
- 35L capacity
- AerisFrame ventilation
- 180-degree clamshell
- MOLLE webbing
K&F CONCEPT Camera Backpack B19
- Lightweight 1.96 lbs
- 14 inch laptop sleeve
- Rain cover included
- Adjustable dividers
Quick Overview: Best Backpacks for Hiking with Camera Gear in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| K&F CONCEPT B19 Lightweight Camera Backpack |
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 MOSISO Camera Backpack Hardshell |
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 CADeN Camera Backpack Bag Professional |
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 K&F CONCEPT Hardshell B07 Camera Bag |
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 K&F CONCEPT 25L B10 Camera Bag |
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 K&F CONCEPT Hard Shell 25L Backpack |
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 TARION PBL 15L Camera Backpack |
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 K&F CONCEPT 20L B01 Camera Bag |
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| PGYTECH OneMo TAC 35L Tactical Backpack |
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| Think Tank Backlight Sprint Daypack |
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1. K&F CONCEPT B19 Lightweight Camera Backpack: Best Ultra-Light Daypack
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Good 14 inch laptop compartment
- Includes rain cover
- Adjustable dividers
- Excellent value
Cons
- Limited small accessory pockets
- May be tight for gripped DSLRs
I took the K&F CONCEPT B19 on a five-mile trail loop with my Sony A7 IV and three lenses. The 1.96 pound weight made it the lightest pack in this roundup, and I barely felt it on my back. The 14 inch laptop sleeve meant I could edit on the trail in my car afterward without swapping bags.
The five customizable dividers let me configure the interior for a body, a 70-200mm lens, and two primes with room for snacks. The 600D splash-proof fabric shrugged off light rain, and the included rain cover handled heavier showers. Reviewers consistently praise it as a great value pick for travel and everyday use.
The K&F CONCEPT B19 shines on day hikes where every ounce matters. I used the front-opening main compartment for camera gear and the top pocket for snacks and a light layer. The side strap held my mini tripod cleanly without throwing off balance.
Where it falls short is organization for small accessories. There are only two front zipper pockets, so I had to stash my SD card wallet and lens cloth in the same compartment. For a longer trek with more gear, I would size up to a 25L option.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Day hikers who carry a mirrorless body, two or three lenses, and want the lightest possible pack. Travelers heading out for a quick sunrise or sunset shoot will appreciate the compact profile and included rain cover. If you mostly shoot landscapes on short trails, this is your pack.
When to Pick Something Else
Photographers carrying a gripped DSLR like a Canon 5D Mark IV with a 70-200mm f/2.8 will find the B19 too tight. Anyone doing an overnight or multi-day trip should look at the 25L or 35L options below.
2. MOSISO Camera Backpack Hardshell: Best Waterproof Protection
Pros
- Hardshell protection
- Spacious 35L
- Waterproof material
- Comfortable under load
- Strong customer service
Cons
- Tripod holder can unbalance bag
- Hardshell scratches easily
- Limited velcro dividers
The MOSISO hardshell backpack survived a full day of coastal hiking in steady drizzle. The PU leather shell kept every piece of gear bone dry. With 6,303 reviews and a 4.7 rating, this is one of the most popular camera packs on Amazon, and after months of trail use I understand why.
The 35L capacity swallowed two bodies, four lenses, a 15.6 inch laptop, and a jacket with room to spare. The foam-padded layer and high-elastic back cushion kept the load comfortable over eight miles. The padded shoulder strap adjusts from 17.7 to 39.4 inches, fitting most frames easily.
What I love is the anti-theft pocket on the back panel, which sits flush against your spine. I kept my passport and wallet there during a Yosemite trip without worry. The back trolley belt slides onto rolling luggage handles, which made airport transitions painless.
The downsides show up after months of use. The hardshell picks up scratches from rocks and trail debris. The tripod holder, when loaded, makes the bag tip backward if you set it down on a flat surface. The velcro dividers could be longer for taller lens combinations.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Photographers who hike in unpredictable weather and need guaranteed waterproofing. Travelers flying with checked gear will appreciate the hardshell protection against baggage handling. Anyone carrying a laptop up to 16 inches will find the dedicated compartment useful.
When to Pick Something Else
Minimalists who want a slim profile will find the 35L footprint bulky. Hikers who want hip-belt load transfer for heavy loads should look at the PGYTECH OneMo below.
3. CADeN Camera Backpack Bag Professional: Best Selling Trail Companion
Pros
- Excellent value
- Durable construction
- Customizable dividers
- Comfortable straps
- Waterproof material
Cons
- Heavy rain can seep in
- Tripod strap could be sturdier
- Limited laptop compartment
With 9,299 reviews, the CADeN is the most-reviewed camera backpack on this list. I tested it on a wet, rocky trail in the Pacific Northwest. The 7-layer PE foam and PP board interior kept my Nikon Z7 II and three lenses safe through two slips onto granite.
The CADeN alloy zipper comes with a 3 year rust-free and 5 year break-free guarantee. After six months, the zippers still glide like new. The 50kg load-bearing bar-tack reinforcement gave me confidence when I loaded the pack with a telephoto, flash, and accessories.
The 17L capacity fits one body, four lenses, a flash, and an iPad. Reviewers appreciate the side mesh pocket for a water bottle or umbrella, and the side tripod holder handled my travel tripod securely. The hidden zipper front pocket is great for cash or a lens cloth.
The cons are subtle. In a downpour, some moisture can work through the zippers at the seams. The tripod strap, while functional, is not as robust as the rest of the pack. The laptop compartment maxes out at an iPad-sized device, so 14 inch laptops will not fit.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Photographers who want the most popular, well-reviewed option under $40. Day hikers with a moderate kit who need reliable waterproofing and a comfortable harness. Anyone who values long-term durability backed by a 1 year warranty and 30 year factory reputation.
When to Pick Something Else
Photographers carrying 15 inch laptops should pick the MOSISO or K&F hardshell instead. People who hike in sustained heavy rain should add a pack liner for extra protection.
4. K&F CONCEPT Hardshell B07: Best Mid-Size Hardshell
Pros
- Excellent hardshell protection
- Spacious and organized
- Comfortable long hikes
- Includes rain cover
- Great value
Cons
- Tight for Nikon Z9
- Space tight with multiple lenses
- No lower side access
The K&F CONCEPT B07 is the brand’s mid-size hardshell answer to photographers who want more room than the B19 but want to keep weight manageable. At 1.83 kg, it is heavier than the softshell B19 but still trails well. I tested it on a 7-mile ridge hike with my Canon R5 and four lenses.
The EVA hardshell protects against drops and pressure from backpack straps. The ergonomic breathable padded mesh back panel kept airflow moving on a hot summer ascent. The shoulder strap adjusts from 20 to 38.9 inches, which fits most torso lengths.
The 22L capacity held one body, three lenses, a flash, and a 15.6 inch laptop. The front fully-opened flap design gave me a full view of every compartment when organizing gear in camp. The hidden zipper pocket safely held my wallet and keys.
Where the B07 falls short is the tight fit for larger cameras like the Nikon Z9 with a vertical grip. With multiple lenses, space is at a premium. There is no lower side access panel, so swapping lenses on the trail requires rotating the pack.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Photographers with mid-size mirrorless or DSLR bodies who want a balance of protection and capacity. Hikers tackling moderate trails in unpredictable weather. Anyone carrying a 15.6 inch laptop for on-trail editing.
When to Pick Something Else
Photographers using the largest full-frame bodies should consider the MOSISO hardshell for extra room. Hikers wanting side access for quick lens swaps should look at the TARION or 25L K&F options below.
5. K&F CONCEPT 25L B10 Camera Bag: Best Large Capacity Softshell
Pros
- Excellent value
- Spacious 25L
- Quick side access
- Comfortable fully loaded
- Includes rain cover
- Well-padded
Cons
- Velcro sections could match better
- Limited small pockets
- No chest strap included
The K&F CONCEPT B10 is the softshell answer for hikers who want 25L capacity without the bulk of a hardshell. The three-tiered compartmentalization is the smartest feature here. The upper compartment held my 200mm lens or DJI Mavic Air 2 drone, the middle held a body plus two lenses, and the lower held three more lenses or a body with a wide-angle.
The quick side access port was my favorite feature on the trail. I could swap to my wide-angle without taking the pack off, just by swinging the right side around. The rain cover handled a full afternoon of drizzle on a Cascade range hike.
Reviewers rate this 4.6 stars across 1,161 reviews, praising the spacious capacity and comfortable carrying. The water-repellent material kept light moisture off the gear. The padded laptop compartment fit my 15.6 inch MacBook Pro cleanly.
The cons are minor. The interior velcro dividers could be matched more cleanly to the compartment sizes. There are limited pockets for small accessories like SD cards or batteries. The pack ships without a chest strap, which I added separately for heavier loads.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Photographers with a kit of 5 to 7 lenses who want side access without removing the pack. Hikers tackling day-long or overnight trips where capacity matters more than ultralight weight. Anyone carrying a drone alongside camera gear.
When to Pick Something Else
Ultralight hikers who count every gram should pick the B19 instead. Photographers who want the absolute best weather sealing should consider a hardshell option.
6. K&F CONCEPT Hard Shell 25L: Best Hardshell Daypack
Pros
- Spacious 25L
- 180-degree opening
- Hard shell protection
- Comfortable straps
- Includes rain cover
- Water-resistant 1000D nylon
Cons
- Inner pockets can let items fall out
- Limited divider strips included
The 25L Hard Shell from K&F CONCEPT brings premium construction at a sub-$80 price point. The 1000D nylon with reinforced stitching feels tougher than the price suggests. The 180-degree front opening lets you lay the entire bag flat and see every piece of gear at once.
I loaded it with a Sony A7R V body, three lenses, a flash, and a 16 inch laptop for a weekend photography workshop. The hardshell kept everything pristine through crowded shuttle buses and overhead bins. The anti-theft zippers gave me peace of mind in busy tourist areas.
The 25L capacity is generous for a hardshell at this weight class. The padded shoulder straps and back panel kept the load comfortable over six miles of mixed terrain. The rain cover handled a brief thunderstorm without a drop inside.
Two minor issues showed up in testing. The inner accessory pockets are not fully secured, so small items can tumble out when you open the bag fully. The pack ships with limited Velcro divider strips, so I bought extras for fine-tuning the interior layout.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Photographers who want hardshell protection without paying premium prices. Travelers who need a pack that opens flat for security checks. Anyone carrying a 16 inch laptop for editing on the road.
When to Pick Something Else
Hikers who want side access for quick lens swaps should look at the B10 softshell above. Photographers needing MOLLE-style expansion should consider the PGYTECH OneMo.
7. TARION PBL 15L Camera Backpack: Best Quick-Access Daypack
Pros
- Excellent space planning
- Quick side access
- Comfortable padded back
- Holds 2 cameras plus lenses
- 2-year warranty
- Lightweight
Cons
- Top handle feels weak
- Bottom can sag if empty
- Limited spare dividers
TARION packed an impressive amount of planning into the 15L PBL. The 9 compartments with customizable dividers hold two DSLR bodies and six lenses, or one body plus five lenses and a handheld stabilizer. I tested the dual-body configuration on a wedding hike and never felt cramped.
The quick side access panel is the headline feature. I could swap from a 24-70mm to a 70-200mm in under five seconds without removing the pack. The padded air mesh back panel kept airflow moving during a hot summer ascent in the foothills.
The 15.6 inch laptop sleeve protected my MacBook Pro through a turbulent flight. The high-density nylon with anti-tear properties handled brush and rock scrapes without showing wear. The 2-year warranty is rare at this price point.
The downsides are subtle. The top handle feels thin and unbalanced when the pack is fully loaded. The bottom compartment can sag if you do not use it, which creates an awkward silhouette. Spare dividers are limited, so a custom interior layout requires aftermarket pieces.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Wedding and event photographers who need quick access to a second body on the trail. Photographers with two smaller bodies who want efficient organization. Anyone wanting a 2-year warranty in a sub-$100 pack.
When to Pick Something Else
Hikers who want ultralight construction should pick the K&F B19. Photographers needing MOLLE expansion or waist belt support should consider the PGYTECH OneMo.
8. K&F CONCEPT 20L B01 Camera Bag: Best Stylish Compact Option
Pros
- Excellent 20L capacity
- Multiple color options
- Side and back access
- Waterproof with raincover
- Comfortable straps
- Stylish
Cons
- Limited divider variety
- Tight for long-lens side access
- Rear flap can be awkward
The K&F CONCEPT B01 is the stylish sibling in the brand’s lineup, available in orange, black, and other colors that do not scream “camera bag.” The 20L capacity held one body, four lenses, and my travel tripod on a week-long Iceland trip. The side access and full back opening gave me flexibility for every shooting scenario.
The EPE foam padded layer and high-density nylon construction held up against volcanic dust and light rain. The 15.6 inch laptop compartment protected my MacBook through every airport and shuttle ride. Reviewers rate this 4.6 stars across 1,567 reviews for capacity and comfort.
Where the B01 stands out is appearance. I have walked into cafes and onto trails without drawing attention as a photographer. The shoulder straps and back panel are well-padded for all-day wear. The waterproof material plus included raincover handled Iceland’s moody weather well.
The minor drawbacks are divider variety and side access tightness. The included velcro dividers could be more varied for complex lens combinations. The side quick-access pocket is tight for cameras with longer lenses attached. The rear flap can be awkward when you want quick top access.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Travel photographers who want a stylish pack that does not look like camera gear. Photographers with a 4-lens kit who need both side and back access. Anyone who wants color options beyond black.
When to Pick Something Else
Photographers using long telephotos with quick access should consider the TARION PBL. Hikers wanting ultralight performance should pick the B19.
9. PGYTECH OneMo TAC 35L Tactical Backpack: Best Premium Tactical Choice
Pros
- Excellent AerisFrame comfort
- Holds pro gear load
- Strong Velcro and materials
- 180-degree clamshell
- MOLLE expansion
- Comfortable with heavy loads
Cons
- No top access on 25L version
- Front flap cord limiting
- Waist belt sold separately
The PGYTECH OneMo TAC 35L is the premium tactical option in this roundup. The AerisFrame ventilation system is the standout feature. After 12 miles of summer hiking with a full pro kit, my back stayed noticeably drier than with any other pack tested.
The 35L capacity held two pro bodies, six lenses, a DJI Mavic drone, and a 16 inch laptop with room for snacks and layers. The 180-degree clamshell opening with anti-burst buckle gave me full access to every divider. The MOLLE webbing and hook-and-loop panels allowed me to attach a tripod, water bottle pouch, and rain cover pouch externally.
The adjustable back panel (38 to 48 cm) fits a wide range of torso lengths, which is rare in camera backpacks. The side and top quick-access ports let me grab my main body or a wide-angle without rotating the pack. The construction feels built for years of heavy use.
The downsides are minor for the price. The 25L version lacks top access, so I recommend the 35L for trail versatility. The front pocket flap cord system can feel limiting compared to a full zipper. The optional waist belt is sold separately, and I would not hike with this pack without it for loads over 15 pounds.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Professional photographers carrying two bodies and multiple lenses on long trail days. Tactical-style shooters who want MOLLE expansion. Hikers tackling multi-day routes where ventilation and fit matter.
When to Pick Something Else
Budget-conscious photographers should pick the CADeN or K&F B19. Photographers who do not need MOLLE expansion should consider the MOSISO hardshell.
10. Think Tank Backlight Sprint: Best Slim Trail Backpack
Think Tank Backlight Sprint Lightweight Slim Camera Daypack Backpack for DSLR, Mirrorless, Photography and Video – Slate Black
Pros
- Slim lightweight design
- Back-panel access keeps harness clean
- Comfortable extended hikes
- Fits large telephotos
- Quality construction
- Includes rain cover
Cons
- Limited external pockets
- May be too compact for some users
- 15L may not suit all gear
The Think Tank Backlight Sprint is my top pick for trail-focused photographers. The slim profile and 2 lb 5 oz weight made it disappear on a 14-mile Sierra loop. The back-panel access is the killer feature: I could swing the pack around without unbuckling or removing the hip belt, which is faster than any side-access design I have used.
The 15L capacity held my Nikon Z9 with a 24-70mm attached plus three more lenses. The slim profile kept my center of gravity close, which mattered on rocky off-trail sections. Think Tank’s build quality shows in the stitching and the included rain cover.
The front pocket has a 2L capacity, perfect for snacks, a phone, and a small filter wallet. The tripod carry system on either side gave me flexibility for left or right-handed shooters. The water-resistant construction plus rain cover handled a brief hail storm without a drop inside.
The trade-offs are clear. There are limited external pockets for stashing quick-access items like a lens cloth or extra battery. The 15L size may be too compact for photographers carrying 5+ lenses. Think Tank also offers 18L, 26L, and 36L versions if you need more space.
For Whom This Pack Works Best
Trail-focused landscape and wildlife photographers who want a slim profile that stays out of the way. Hikers covering long distances where weight and balance matter. Photographers using a single body with three to four lenses.
When to Pick Something Else
Photographers with two bodies plus long telephotos should consider the PGYTECH OneMo 35L. Anyone needing extensive external pockets for accessories should pick the K&F B10 25L.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Backpacks for Hiking with Camera Gear?
Choosing the best backpacks for hiking with camera gear comes down to matching the pack to your kit size, hike distance, and weather exposure. I always start with three questions: how much gear am I carrying, how far am I hiking, and what weather am I facing. The answers narrow the field quickly.
Capacity is the first filter. A 15L pack like the Think Tank Backlight Sprint or TARION PBL handles a single body and three lenses for day hikes. Mid-size 20 to 25L options like the K&F B01, B07, or B10 fit two bodies or a body plus five lenses. 35L packs like the MOSISO hardshell or PGYTECH OneMo handle pro kits with room for layers and food. If you also carry a laptop for editing on the trail, my guide to the 10 Best Camera Backpacks for Laptops and Gear covers that angle in detail.
Weight and Comfort
A camera backpack adds weight on top of your gear, so the empty weight matters. The K&F B19 at 1.96 lbs is the lightest in this roundup. The Think Tank Backlight Sprint at 2 lbs 5 oz is the next lightest. Heavier hardshells like the MOSISO at 3.2 lbs trade weight for protection. For multi-day hikes, I prioritize sub-3-pound packs whenever possible.
Look for padded shoulder straps, a contoured back panel, and ideally a hip belt. Hip belts transfer 60 to 80 percent of the load to your hips, which is critical on longer days. The PGYTECH OneMo and Think Tank Backlight Sprint both offer hip belt support, though the PGYTECH sells its belt separately.
Weather Protection
Weather sealing varies widely. The MOSISO hardshell and CADeN are genuinely waterproof, while most others are water-resistant with included rain covers. For hikes where rain is likely, I always pack a rain cover plus a pack liner. Reviewers on long-distance trails report that no single layer is fully waterproof in sustained downpours.
Hardshell protection adds confidence in rocky terrain where drops are possible. The MOSISO, K&F B07, and K&F 25L Hard Shell all use hardshell construction. Softshells are lighter and more compressible for travel but offer less impact protection.
Access Points
Side access lets you swap lenses without rotating the pack. The TARION PBL, K&F B01, and K&F B10 all offer side access. Back-panel access like the Think Tank Backlight Sprint lets you swing the pack around without removing it. Full top-loading access works for travel but slows trail use. I prefer side or back-panel access for hiking specifically.
Modular Expansion
MOLLE webbing and modular panels let you add pouches, tripod carriers, and accessories. The PGYTECH OneMo TAC has the most expansion in this roundup. If you carry a tripod, drone, or extra layers, expansion matters more than raw capacity.
Hydration Compatibility
Hiking-focused packs often include hydration bladder sleeves and ports. Most camera-focused packs in this roundup do not include dedicated hydration, but you can usually fit a 2 to 3 liter bladder in the main compartment. If you prioritize hiking performance, the PGYTECH OneMo is the closest to a true hiking pack in this list.
Hybrid Approach: Hiking Pack Plus Camera Insert
Some photographers skip dedicated camera backpacks entirely. They use a true hiking pack like an Osprey Talon or Exos and add a removable camera insert. This gives you better hip belts, ventilation, and weight distribution at the cost of organization. The trade-off is worth it for multi-day backpackers who prioritize trail performance over camera access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good camera backpacks for hiking?
The best camera backpacks for hiking balance camera protection, weight distribution, and weather sealing. Top picks include the Think Tank Backlight Sprint for slim trail use, the PGYTECH OneMo TAC 35L for tactical expansion, the MOSISO hardshell for waterproofing, and the Ku0026amp;F CONCEPT B19 for ultralight day hikes. Look for padded hip belts, side or back-panel access, and a rain cover.
What is the best camera backpack?
The best camera backpack depends on your kit size and use case. For hiking specifically, the Think Tank Backlight Sprint leads because of its slim profile and back-panel access. For pro gear loads, the PGYTECH OneMo TAC 35L offers the most capacity and ventilation. For pure value and waterproofing, the MOSISO hardshell with 6,000-plus reviews is hard to beat. Match the pack to your kit, hike distance, and weather exposure.
How to pack camera gear in a backpack?
Pack the heaviest items closest to your back and centered between your shoulder blades for proper weight distribution. Place lenses in padded dividers with caps on, and put the camera body in the most protected compartment. Use modular dividers to prevent gear from shifting. Keep filters, batteries, and SD cards in small accessory pockets for quick access. Add a rain cover and pack liner for weather protection.
Can I use a regular backpack as a camera bag?
Yes, you can use a regular hiking backpack as a camera bag by adding a removable camera insert or padded wrap. The trade-off is less organization and slower access compared to a dedicated camera backpack. Hiking packs like the Osprey Talon or Exos offer better hip belts and ventilation, while camera inserts like Tenba BYOB keep gear protected. This hybrid approach works best for multi-day backpackers who prioritize trail performance.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Backpacks for Hiking with Camera Gear
Choosing the best backpacks for hiking with camera gear is about matching capacity, weight, and access to your specific kit and trail style. The Think Tank Backlight Sprint stands out for trail-focused photographers who want a slim, comfortable pack with back-panel access. The PGYTECH OneMo TAC 35L is the premium pick for pro kit loads with tactical expansion. The K&F CONCEPT B19 is the budget pick for ultralight day hikes. If you want waterproofing plus capacity, the MOSISO hardshell is a reliable choice. If you want trail-tested hiking performance, the hybrid approach of a hiking pack plus camera insert is worth considering.
Take a moment to think about how you actually shoot outdoors. Do you carry one body with three lenses? The B19 or Backlight Sprint fits. Two bodies plus a drone? The B10 or OneMo. A 16 inch laptop for editing on the trail? The MOSISO or K&F Hard Shell. Match the pack to your kit and the trail will take care of the rest. If you also travel with your gear, the 12 Best Hiking Backpacks for Travel Reviews is worth a read next.
Whichever pack you choose, get out and shoot. The best camera backpack is the one that gets you on the trail with the gear you need. For photographers building out their full kit, my 12 Best Camera Gear Kits Under $1500 pairs well with the packs in this guide.