I’ve been a Peak Design fan for years, so when they launched their new Outdoor Backpack line, I was genuinely excited to see what they’d come up with. What I didn’t expect was how different these would feel from their Everyday Backpack series that I know and love.

We tested both the 25L and 45L sizes, and honestly? These backpacks represent a completely new direction for Peak Design. If you’re used to their sleek, minimalist aesthetic, prepare for something entirely different.

First Impressions: A Learning Curve

My first impression of the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack in 25L was that it does not look like my Peak Design Everyday Backpack in roughly the same size. The look of the Outdoor Backpack is completely new to Peak Design, and I had a new learning curve of getting to know the features.

The materials feel complex in the best way possible. I’ll call it “mixed media” because there are so many different textures working together. You’ve got mesh pockets, weatherproof “Terra shell” ripstop fabric on the exterior, new nylon webbing on the back layers for ergonomic support, and these really cool drawstrings that add both function and visual interest.

Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L: Daily Carry Meets Adventure

The 25L size is perfect for my daily photography carry. What I love most about it is how the laptop compartment works. It’s good for my 13” MacBook Air and Dan’s 14” MacBook Pro and has this nice, thick Velcro elastic strap that keeps my computer secure while I’m moving around. And that’s whether I’m traveling or just walking around the city.

What’s really convenient (and new to me) is that the entire laptop sleeve acts as the back flap. It has a full zip-around that lets me access the interior cavity without having to dig through the main compartment. This is brilliant when I’m outside hiking or trekking with a full bag of camera gear.

The 25L packs a daily carry of my photography gear perfectly. I can fit a camera body, lenses, and accessories with room to spare. The weatherproofing is what gives me confidence for hanging out in nature and all its surprises. At 2.54 lbs, it’s lightweight enough for all-day wear.

Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 45L: The Adventure Workhorse

Now, the 45L is where things get really interesting. I’m wildly impressed with this backpack, but I have to come clean about something. I was really perplexed when I first laid eyes on it because it has the ability to pack flat and arrives flat in its box. This means even a backpack this big could fit into another piece of luggage.

The level of intricacy in how it can be used to plan travel, as well as engage in outdoor activities (even some extreme ones like scaling rocks, if you were to want to take this much weight with you), is potentially unmatched.

At every corner, there’s an adjustable strap or cord, and the laptop sleeve can be used to store a water bladder for hiking hydration.

Where I’m continually surprised is at how much it fits and at how much it weighs (3.42 lbs) even with all the trimmings it comes with. Peak Design bags are usually on the heavier side, and this is the opposite of that.

And to support all that weight, wow. The hip belt combined with the shoulder straps are like nothing I’ve seen before. They’re designed to distribute weight evenly and comfortably, even when you’re carrying a full load.

What Makes These Backpacks Special

What’s cool about both of these backpacks is the integration of outdoorsy elements. Peak Design bags did this before, but they truly nail it now with the Outdoor line. The weatherproofing, the thoughtful organization, the way everything works together for both photography and outdoor adventures.

Both backpacks use Peak Design’s Terra Shell fabric, which is 100% recycled and Bluesign approved. The weatherproofing is rated at 1500mm hydrostatic, and they use PFAS-free water-repellent treatment. It’s nice to see a company thinking about sustainability while still delivering top-notch performance.

The Bottom Line

These aren’t your typical Peak Design backpacks. They’re more rugged, more feature-rich, and more focused on outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for something that can handle both your daily photography needs and your weekend hiking trips, these backpacks deliver.

The 25L is perfect for day trips and daily carry, while the 45L is ideal for multi-day adventures or when you need to carry more gear. Both offer the weatherproofing and organization that Peak Design is known for, but with a more outdoor-focused approach.

Next Steps

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