Imagine hiking for five hours, eager to capture your incredible destination, only to arrive and find your camera damaged by the elements or during transport. Cameras and lenses are expensive, and they can easily be affected by dirt, sand, snow, rain, or extreme temperatures. Naturally, you want to protect your gear, and for many photographers, a dedicated camera bag feels like an essential piece of hiking equipment.
But is it really necessary? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using a camera bag on hikes, discuss some alternative solutions, and examine how professional landscape photographers manage their gear in the mountains.
When you invest in a quality camera, protecting it becomes a priority. This is why many photographers rely on a dedicated camera bag. Here is why it might seem like the best option:
• Protection: Your camera is a valuable tool, and a camera bag shields it from rain, dust, and accidental drops.
• Organization: Camera bags come with dedicated compartments for lenses, batteries, and accessories, making it easy to keep track of everything.
• Comfort: Proper weight distribution helps reduce strain during long hikes.
• Quick Access: A well-designed camera bag allows you to grab your camera quickly for spontaneous shots without rummaging through a regular backpack.
I have used a camera bag at one point early on in my adventures and I did find that the organization of the bag makes it really easy to store your gear, especially when you carry a lot of lenses. However the comfort of the bags for long hikes was not the best and I wanted to carry more camping equipment so I started to look at alternative options.
For my longer adventures I prefer a giant hiking backpack like this one so I can fit my camping gear as well. In this case, I wrap my camera and lenses in jackets and bulky clothing to protect them.
The Downsides
Despite these benefits, camera bags also have drawbacks that some hikers prefer to avoid, myself included!
• Extra Weight: Camera bags can be bulky, adding unnecessary weight to your hike. This is the main concern I had early on, if you are going for a few weeks of travel off grid, you need to pack really carefully and weight management is crucial.
• Less Flexibility: A dedicated camera bag often means carrying an additional backpack for essentials like water, snacks, and extra clothing.
• Cost: High-quality camera bags can be expensive, and not everyone wants to invest in a second specialized backpack.
Alternative Solutions
While a camera bag offers protection and organization, it also adds weight and takes up space. Many experienced photographers opt for simpler solutions:
1. Minimalist Approach
For long hikes, every extra gram matters. Instead of carrying a bulky camera bag, some photographers wrap their camera in a soft item, like a t-shirt or padded insert, and place it securely inside their main hiking backpack. This keeps the gear safe while eliminating extra bulk.
2. Multi-Purpose Backpacks
Some hiking backpacks have built-in compartments for cameras, eliminating the need for a separate camera bag. Brands like F-Stop, Lowepro, and Wandrd design camera-compatible backpacks that offer the best of both worlds—gear protection and hiking comfort.
3. Camera Clips and Straps
A great alternative to a camera bag is using a camera clip, such as the Peak Design Capture Clip, which attaches your camera to your backpack strap for easy access. Camera harnesses or sling straps also allow for quick shooting without the need for extra storage.
4. Fanny Packs or Small Pouches
If you prefer not to carry a large camera bag, a compact fanny pack or a small padded camera pouch can work well. These options provide quick access and reduce the weight of carrying a large bag.
How Professional Photographers Carry Their Gear
Professional landscape photographers often travel light. Instead of carrying a dedicated camera bag, they focus on efficiency by choosing one or two lenses and packing their camera strategically wrapped in layers of clothing. Others will often use a standard hiking backpack with customized padding inside to keep their gear safe without extra weight.
The most important thing for any landscape photographer is to use weather-resistant gear or protective covers rather than relying solely on a camera bag for protection. So regardless of camera bag or hiking backpack make sure you have got a waterproof covering for your bag!
Camera Bag Ideas
If you just can't go without a camera bag then I have done some research to find the best camera bags that are hiking compatible. A good hiking camera backpack should have padded dividers to keep lenses and bodies safe, external attachment points (like for a tripod), and a sturdy harness system (with a hip belt) to distribute weight over long distances. Weatherproofing is also key — look for bags with rain covers or water-resistant material so your gear no matter the conditions.
Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 350 AW — well-padded, back-panel access, comes with an all-weather rain cover. For NZ customers mainly but also ships internationally!
NYA-EVO Fjord 60-C Gen 4 (44-60 L) - These packs have removable camera inserts so you can adapt them to how much gear you’re carrying. Rear-access, strong frame, rain cover included. They are pretty environmentally minded made with ECONYL which is essentially nylon waste which is great. They also have a day-pack version of this bag at 36L if you are really keen on camera bags.
Think Tank Backlight Sprint 26L - This one has a Lightweight design and is more of a daypack. The “Backlight” series is specifically made for outdoor photographers. It is reviewed as being very usable for day hikes or locations where you don’t want a massive pack.
Camera Protection Tips for Hikers
Whether you choose a camera bag or not, protecting your camera while hiking is crucial. Here are some tips to keep your gear safe:
• Use rain covers to shield your camera from unexpected weather changes.
• Keep silica gel packs in your bag to absorb moisture and prevent condensation. I don't do this, but I have heard some people do this and highly recommend, so worth considering!
• Always use a UV filter or lens hood to protect your lens from scratches and dust.
• Pack extra lens cloths to wipe away moisture, dust, or fingerprints.
Choosing the Right Camera Carrying Solution for You
Deciding whether to use a camera bag ultimately depends on your hiking style, the terrain, and the type of photography you’re doing. Ask yourself:
• Will I be hiking long distances where every ounce matters?
• Do I need multiple lenses and accessories?
• Will the terrain be rugged or wet, increasing the risk of damage?
• Do I prioritize quick access or maximum protection?
By considering these factors, you can determine whether a dedicated camera bag is the best choice or if an alternative carrying method suits you better.
Conclusion
So, do you really need a camera bag when hiking? I don't think so, but it depends on your needs, terrain, and gear. Some photographers find them essential for protection and organization, while others like myself prefer a minimalist approach to keep their load light.
Next time you head out on an adventure, consider wrapping your camera in a jacket and packing light—you might be surprised at how much easier your journey feels! What’s your take? Do you use a camera bag when hiking? Share your experiences!
Max Rive is most driven by seeking new perspectives in the natural world and capturing them in his own distinguished style. Max's powerful portrayals of his interactions with the mountains has earned him international recognition in the outdoor community.
Madison McCardle is a passionate landscape photographer driven by curiosity and a desire to capture the true essence of each place she explores. Through her lens, she seeks new perspectives that reveal the beauty and authenticity of the world.
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