The perfect 20L Camera Backpack that's not Peak Design

January 6, 2022 2:45 PM

So I got a 15L Peak zip for my alaska trip. It was good. But by the end i'm shoving in stuff sideways. So I get the 30L Everyday Backpack for my next trip. But it's way too big so I return it. But now, I'm noticing I'm not loving the shoulder straps on ANY peak design bags. So what's the right goldilocks camera bag in that 18-25L sweet spot?
posted by rileyray3000 to Travel & Transportation (7 answers total)

They've updated the design since I got mine, but I've had a Niko Camera Backpack from Chrome since 2016 or so and have been in love with it. Current model is 23L.
posted by EbenezerBoink at 3:04 PM on January 6, 2022

Could you expand a bit on the aspects of Peak Design's straps you don't like? It may help for suggesting other options.
posted by theory at 3:45 PM on January 6, 2022 [1 favorite]

I used to swear by Kata camera bags. They've recently (2019) been rebranded as Manfrotto Pro Light, but marketing at least wants us to think it's the same design/fabric, just in black, not blue. Maybe take a look at that line?
posted by Alterscape at 6:37 PM on January 6, 2022

Vanquest Trident 21 if you are really, really, really into tacticool (or are able to ignore it if you're not). Chase Reeves review

I'm considering the 32L but man that look is not at all for me.
posted by cape at 8:20 PM on January 6, 2022

You do get that you can put a camera in a bag not specifically for cameras, right? What I mean is you can find a backpack (or whatever specific kind of bag you like), and put your camera and gear in that. Too small for your gear, buy a larger size of the same type/brand. That also works for adding padding. I use a Timbuk3 messenger bag. They also make camera inserts for their bags so that worked out well for me. One of the other bonuses is you can go to touristy places with your gear, and you don't have a bag that screams HEY, I'VE GOT EXPENSIVE SHIT FOR YOU TO STEAL!
posted by evilDoug at 8:44 PM on January 6, 2022

An old high school friend of mine is a professional photographer, avid backpacker, and entrepreneur with a custom backpack company - Hilltop Packs. He built his own camera bag when we couldn't find an ultralight option that met his needs. [Disclaimer: I know nothing about camera bags and haven't tried this product myself.]
posted by hessie at 5:40 AM on January 7, 2022

I ended up getting a bag insert and a (non-photography) pack that I liked. There are lots of options.
posted by backseatpilot at 6:44 AM on January 7, 2022