This page details the specific criteria we use when reviewing camera backpacks. Each criterion has a weight that contributes to the overall score. Learn more about how our scoring system works.

Scoring Overview

Each criterion below is weighted as a percentage of the total score. We evaluate each product on a scale of 1 to 5 for every criterion, then multiply by the weight to calculate the final rating.

Carry comfort & fit (10%)

Camera bags get heavy fast. Can you wear this all day, or do you immediately want to take it off? I’m evaluating how well the weight distributes across your shoulders, especially when you’re carrying heavy glass. I’m checking back ventilation because shooting outdoors means sweat. I’m testing whether the strap padding is dense enough. Camera bags often use stiff foam that bites into your shoulders after a few hours. If there’s a hip belt, which is rare but essential for heavier kits, I’m testing how well it transfers weight to your hips.

Camera gear organization & access (14%)

This is the core of a camera backpack. How fast can I reach the gear I need without digging? I’m evaluating access style: full rear access, side access, or top access. Side access is key for speed of lens swaps. I’m checking modular divider quality, looking at stiffness and Velcro strength. I’m testing how customizable the layout feels. Does it fit internal camera units or cubes from other brands like Peak Design, Shimoda, or F-Stop? I’m testing drone compatibility, which is a common expectation now. I’m evaluating tripod carry options on the side, front, or bottom. I’m checking whether a gimbal fits intact without teardown.

Materials & build quality (12%)

This is the ‘you know when you feel it’ category. Camera bags face unique challenges. I’m evaluating hardwearing base fabric because camera bags sit on the ground constantly. I’m checking zipper smoothness under load, which matters more on heavy camera bags than regular backpacks. I’m assessing internal lining durability because Velcro dividers tear cheap linings fast. I’m looking for frame sheets or structure that keeps gear stable and prevents sag. Fabric choice and hardware quality matter. So does reinforcement in the stress points that actually see camera gear use.

Weather resistance (10%)

Can I confidently take this out in the rain? I’m checking how it handles rain, snow and spills. I’m also evaluating the details that matter for photographers. Does it include a rain cover? Many camera bags offer this and it’s critical. I’m evaluating zipper sealing, looking for laminated zippers or storm flaps. I’m checking bottom panel waterproofing because you’re putting the bag down in wet grass constantly. This is the confidence level of being able to shoot in bad weather without worrying about your gear getting soaked.

Camera & lens protection (14%)

This is the most important category for camera-specific bags. I’m evaluating padding quality. Is it thick, stiff, and consistent? I’m checking shock resistance for drops and bumps. I’m assessing internal movement control to make sure gear doesn’t shift around. I’m testing lens-down storage safety. I’m checking whether the laptop sleeve has enough rigidity for working photographers. If there’s no dedicated laptop protection, I’ll default to general padding quality within the bag itself.

Tripod & external gear carry (8%)

Most tripod carry systems are terrible. This is a real differentiator. I’m evaluating how well the bag handles tripods on the side, front, or bottom. I’m checking secondary handles, trolley pass-throughs and strap adjustability. I’m testing whether external gear like gimbals or monopods attach securely without bouncing or interfering with access.

Travel compatibility (6%)

Camera backpacks rarely nest inside luggage. I’m evaluating compressibility and travel readiness instead. Does it fit overhead bins? Is it slim enough to pack as a personal item? Can you remove the camera cube and pack it inside luggage separately? This is much more realistic for how photographers actually travel with camera gear.

Security & closure confidence (8%)

Camera bags are theft targets. Security matters. I’m checking zipper pull difficulty. Can someone quietly unzip this from behind? I’m evaluating body-side access, where rear-only access prevents theft. I’m testing external pocket vulnerability. Can someone reach into the top pocket? I’m looking at lockable zippers and hidden pockets. How safe does this feel in crowded places?

Versatility for photography & travel (10%)

Can this bag work for street photography with low-profile, quiet access? Does it handle hiking with stability and quality straps? Can it integrate with work, protecting laptops and offering workspace flow? I’m checking whether it fits professional workflow needs like charging brick storage and battery pockets. How well does it pivot between different photography styles, travel days and work sessions?

Overall value for price (8%)

Where does this land on price versus what you’re actually getting? Build quality, camera protection performance and warranty all factor into whether it’s worth the cost. Camera bags get expensive fast. I’m evaluating whether the features justify the price tag.

Here are our reviews of camera backpacks that use these scoring criteria:

Where to go next

🎒 Found the right gear?

We research and test the gear we recommend, so you can pack with confidence. If our suggestions improved your gear picks, treating us to a coffee keeps the reviews coming.

Help us test more gear