Best Backpacks for GoPro

If you’re planning your next adventure and need a place to store your GoPro camera and equipment, you need the right GoPro backpack. However, choosing the best backpack for GoPros is more complicated than it seems since there are dozens of options to pick from.

Hi, my name is Larry! I’m a seasoned traveler who’s been filming action content around the world for nearly 10 years. I bring my GoPro camera wherever I go and have tested over 40 different backpacks for GoPro.

In today’s in-depth guide, I’ll share the best GoPro backpacks you should consider for your future escapades. I’ll also answer a few related questions and explain what factors you must look for in a GoPro backpack.

Strap in, and let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

• GoPro backpacks are perfect for hikers, travelers, and vloggers that need a place to store their mounts, accessories, and other gear.
• Some GoPro backpacks offer direct mounting you can use to record content easily. 
• A compact and lightweight backpack holds 5 to 10 liters, while a multi-day travel backpack can hold up to 70 liters or more.
• Capacity and comfort are two of the most important factors when choosing the best backpack for your GoPro.
• The Smatree Backpack is the best overall GoPro backpack.

What Makes the Best Backpacks for GoPro

Before we dive into the list, it’s important to discuss what makes the best backpacks for GoPro cameras. In essence, it depends on where you plan on going and what you’ll be doing. For example, you’ll need a different backpack for multi-day camping trips compared to single-day hikes or vlogs.

So, let’s take a closer look at the most crucial factors to think about when picking your next GoPro backpack.

• Capacity: The most important factor to consider is the backpack’s capacity. GoPro backpacks are typically measured in liters, so pay attention to how much capacity each backpack has and consider how much equipment you will need to pack.
• Mounting Capabilities: My favorite feature about GoPro backpacks is that some of them include pre-installed mounts. This way, you can easily attach your GoPro to your backpack while recording backpacking footage. 
• Organizational Compartments: Another essential feature of the best GoPro backpacks is organization. Since you likely plan to pack different mounts and accessories, you need a backpack with different compartments. This way, you can easily organize and find what you need later on. 
• Comfort: A GoPro backpack won’t be effective if it’s uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time. Luckily, the best backpacks for GoPro come with cushioned shoulder straps and are designed for lumbar support.
• Weight: Weight also plays a big role in how comfortable a GoPro backpack is. You need a GoPro backpack that won’t weigh you down as you travel. 

Top 8 Best Backpacks for GoPro Users

Now that you understand what to look for when choosing your new GoPro backpack, it’s time to look at the list of the best available options. As I mentioned earlier, I’ve tested dozens of different backpacks and put each one to the limit on extensive backpacking trips. Therefore, this list includes only the best of the best.

Let’s get started!

1. Smatree Backpack (Best Overall)

• Capacity: 25L
• Size: 17 x 13 x 8 inches 
• Weight: 4.99 pounds
• Mounting Capabilities: Rear and shoulder mount

The Smatree Hardshell Backpack is a multi-functional backpack you can use to store GoPro cameras, GoPro accessories, and drone equipment. This backpack features customized EVA foam to protect your GoPro from impacts, scratches, and bumps.

Best of all, this backpack has a dedicated GoPro compartment that stores one GoPro camera, 6 batteries, 1 selfie stick, 2 SD cards, and mesh pockets for other cables and accessories. Furthermore, the backpack’s straps are made with ultra-soft mesh material for comfort.

The shoulder mount is also removable, which offers multiple angles for your GoPro camera. Although the backpack itself is mildly waterproof for rain and drizzles, it comes with a waterproof case you can use if you take your backpack into an extremely wet environment.  

In terms of durability, the high-density EVA and nylon materials are water-resistant, anti-scratch, anti-collision, and very robust. There’s also a special compartment where you can store up to a 13-inch laptop or tablet. 

The only downside to this backpack is that it may be too small if you plan to pack dozens of different GoPro mounts and accessories. If this is the case, I recommend going for a backpack with a larger capacity and more storage space. 

My Verdict: The Smatree GoPro Backpack is the best overall backpack because it’s comfortable, waterproof, and holds a lot of equipment. The hard shell case is incredibly protective, so you can rest assured knowing your GoPro is safe. 

2. BAGSMART Camera Backpack (Best Budget)

• Capacity: 11L
• Size: 10.2 x 5.7 x 14.6 inches
• Weight: 1.65 pounds
• Mounting Capabilities: No exterior mount included

The BAGSMART Camera Backpack is an extremely lightweight and compact backpack that offers excellent storage and organizational capabilities. The main compartment easily holds multiple GoPro cameras, and there’s a thick-padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 13.3-inch laptop.

Furthermore, there are two extra small pockets where you can store memory cards, earbuds, or keys. The right side of the backpack features a stretch pocket with a strap for tripod equipment.

However, the best part about this backpack is that you can customize your space. This is because there are five removable padded dividers to separate your gear easily. You can also remove all the dividers to use the backpack as a standard laptop backpack. 

Just because it’s a budget option doesn’t mean it can’t protect your GoPro. This backpack features thick foam around the entire outer shell that protects your camera gear from bumps and shock. The weather-resistant canvas and rain cover can also protect your equipment from the rain.

With only 11L of storage space, this isn’t the best option if you have a lot of GoPro equipment you plan on bringing on your next adventure. For this reason, this backpack is a better option if you want a lightweight and compact GoPro backpack for hikes, vlogs, and day trips. 

My Verdict: The BAGSMART Camera Backpack is the best budget option because it’s affordable and offers excellent organizational compartments for all your GoPro equipment. This backpack also features thick foam pads to protect your camera gear. 

3. Neewer Waterproof Backpack (Best Value)

• Capacity: 11L
• Size: 9.8 x 6.3 x 13.4 inches
• Weight: 1.47 pounds
• Mounting Capabilities: No exterior mount included

The Neewer Waterproof Backpack is an affordable GoPro backpack that comes with a one-year warranty. In addition, this backpack features durable waterproof nylon material on the exterior shell. Therefore, you can have peace of mind knowing your camera gear is always protected.

This backpack’s main compartment features 6 small dividers you can use to separate and organize your gear. These dividers are adjustable and can be taped any way you’d like. They are also padded to provide further protection for your GoPro and equipment. 

You can’t get more value out of a GoPro backpack for its price point. The Neewer Waterproof Backpack is incredibly well made with study material. The zippers are solid and functional, and the stitching around the backpack is perfect. This backpack also features two exterior pockets you can use to store tripods or water bottles. 

This backpack is worth every penny if you don’t have a giant kit. So make sure to look at the product pictures beforehand to see if there’s enough space for all of your GoPro equipment. However, in my opinion, this is an amazing travel backpack for GoPro users who value traveling light. 

My Verdict: The Neewer Waterproof Backpack is an excellent choice if you want the best bang for your buck. This backpack easily holds GoPro cameras, professional shoe-mount flash units, cables, batteries, and chargers. 

4. Altura Camera Sling Bag (Best Compact Sling)

• Capacity: 10L
• Size: 8.5 x 5.5 x 16 inches
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Mounting Capabilities: No exterior mount included

The Altura Camera Sling Bag is a lightweight and durable GoPro backpack that’s worn as a sling. Therefore, there’s only one strap you can use to wear around your body, like a shoulder or messenger bag. Nonetheless, the Altura Camera Sling Bag is the perfect option for short and sweet daily escapades. 

This backpack features customized padded dividers you can use to organize your GoPro equipment easily. The top compartment stores flashes and other accessories, while the zippered interior pockets hold batteries and memory cards.  There’s also a tripod holder on the side of the backpack.

My favorite feature of this backpack is the curved, padded sling strap. This allows you to quickly rotate the bag from your back to your chest when you need to access specific equipment or put things away. 

This is the perfect option for you if you plan to constantly switch between a few mounts and accessories. This backpack makes it incredibly easy to grab exactly what you need.

The only downside to this backpack is that some people may not want to use a sling. For this reason, I recommend picking another option if you’d rather use a standard GoPro backpack with two shoulder straps. 

My Verdict: The Altura Camera Sling Bag is the best compact and lightweight bag for short day trips and adventures. Since it’s a sling bag, you can quickly access your equipment and store it away when not in use. 

5. MOSISO Camera Backpack (Best with Hardshell Case)

• Capacity: 25L
• Size: 17.32 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches
• Weight: 3.64 pounds
• Mounting Capabilities: No exterior mount included

The MOSISO Camera Backpack is an excellent workhorse because it offers a waterproof PU leather hardshell case. This backpack also features foam padding between the outer shell and interior compartments for further protection of your GoPro equipment. It’s also incredibly water resistant and can withstand heavy rain.

Let’s talk about the inside compartment. This backpack has two accessory pockets on the back to store cables, memory cards, and other small items. In addition, there’s a tripod/monopod holder on one side of the bag and a water bottle or umbrella holder on the other.

In the main compartment, the MOSISO Camera Backpack uses padded and removable modular inserts, allowing you to customize your storage space. This backpack also features a padded laptop compartment holding any laptop up to 16 inches.

The primary downside to this bag is that the color on the hard front case can scratch off after bumping into sharp objects. Therefore, you should be careful not to scrape the backpack against sharp branches or metal. 

My Verdict: The MOSISO Camera Backpack is incredibly roomy and durable. It also has ultra-comfortable padding on the back, so it’s easy to wear for prolonged periods.

6. PGYTECH OneMo Camera Backpack (Best Premium)

• Capacity: 35L
• Size: 18.9 x 12.6 x 9.06 inches
• Weight: 7.43 pounds
• Mounting Capabilities: No exterior mount included

The PGYTECH OneMo Camera Backpack is one of the best camera backpacks of all time. This is a premium GoPro backpack with a lot of packing options. The included divider system is durable, easy to use, and offers great protection. You never have to worry about your equipment shifting or moving around.

Furthermore, the interior is fully customizable. This means there are dozens of ways you can configure your storage space depending on what equipment you plan to pack. I’ve also never had any issues with water seeping into the backpack, even without the included rain cover attached. 

I tend to bring my DSLR camera along with my GoPro on my adventures. Fortunately, this backpack helps me feel very confident that all my gear is safe and secure. As far as comfort goes, this bag is perfect for extended hikes and trips. For example, my shoulders have lasted several week-long camping trips without any discomfort whatsoever. 

With 35L of storage space, you can hold more than just your camera equipment. There’s enough room to store shoes, clothes, and toiletries as well.

However, since this is a premium backpack, it commands a premium price tag. As the most expensive option on today’s list, I don’t recommend this backpack if you’re a budget-shopper looking for something quick and convenient. If that’s the case, check out some of the picks above. 

My Verdict: The PGYTECH OneMo Camera Backpack is a premium GoPro backpack with a built-in travel pouch you can use as a shoulder bag or fanny pack. Designed for comfort and ample storage, this is the best option for GoPro users who want the best of the best.

7. KAKA Travel Backpack (Best Large Option)

• Capacity: 35L
• Size: 20.5 x 12 x 6.7 inches
• Weight: 3.68 pounds
• Mounting Capabilities: No exterior mount included

The KAKA Travel Backpack is constructed with high-quality terylene oxford fabric. This makes it an astonishingly durable backpack that’s waterproof, scratch resistant, and comfortable. In addition, there are a total of 10 pockets: 1 main zippered compartment, 3 front zipper pockets, 1 side mesh pocket, 2 small strap pockets, and 3 pockets in the main compartment.

Similar to the PGYTECH backpack, this backpack offers 35L of storage space. This ample amount of storage space lets you pack all of your GoPro equipment easily and safely. The KAKA travel backpack is also multifunctional. You can use it as a backpack, duffle bag, shoulder bag, or travel bag. 

This backpack can also store most 17-inch laptops in the dedicated laptop storage compartment. I was thoroughly impressed the first time I took this backpack traveling. I could pack two weeks’ worth of clothes, two pairs of shoes and all my camera equipment without any problems. 

The only issue with this backpack is that it’s more difficult to access your camera gear than other options. Since there’s only a single lengthwise zipper for the main compartment, reaching objects at the bottom of the backpack may be inconvenient without taking it off completely.

My Verdict: The KAKA travel backpack is a durable anti-theft travel bag that holds up to 35L of space. Therefore, this is an outstanding option if you plan on going traveling, camping, or hiking. 

8. BAGSMART Large Camera Backpack (Most Comfortable)

• Capacity: 20L
• Size: 11.8 x 7.5 x 15.7 inches
• Weight: 3.24 pounds
• Mounting Capabilities: No exterior mount included

The BAGSMART Large Camera Backpack is a stylish GoPro backpack with a customizable storage compartment. The compartment features 5 padded dividers to organize your equipment easily. Furthermore, there’s a thick-padded laptop compartment that stores most 15.6-inch laptops. 

This backpack also features a side access zipper that lets you access the gear you need easily. There’s also a front wraparound zipper, making it simple to pack your GoPro equipment. 

In terms of build quality, this backpack is constructed with a durable and waterproof canvas. However, it also includes a rain cover for heavy weather conditions. In addition, the lockable zippers and durable metal hook can be used to prevent theft.

This backpack also surpassed my expectations in regards to comfort. The BAGSMART backpack features excellent back padding and comfortable shoulder straps. In addition, it has an adjustable chest strap to help keep the backpack close to your body. 

However, it’s important to note that the top handle isn’t padded. This means it may be more difficult to carry the backpack if you load it with heavy equipment. Furthermore, I would have liked to see more internal pockets.

My Verdict: The BAGSMART Large Camera Backpack is the best GoPro backpack for comfort because it features thick back padding and soft shoulder straps. This backpack is also very roomy, and it’s easy to find what you need because of its well-designed storage compartments. 

Final Thoughts

I hope you thoroughly enjoyed my guide on the best backpacks for GoPro and were able to pick the best option for your specific needs. GoPro backpacks are essential for all passionate hikers, vloggers, backpackers, and travelers. Not only do they store, protect, and organize your GoPro and equipment, but they are also comfortable to wear and may include pre-installed mounts. 

If you want the best backpack for long-term trips, I highly recommend the Smatree Backpack. This backpack offers incredible protection for all your equipment and GoPro mounting capabilities. It also includes a waterproof cover you can use during rainy or wet environments.

Now I’d love to hear from you! Which backpack from today’s list is your favorite? Do you have any further questions about GoPros backpacks or cameras? What activities do you plan on doing with your new GoPro backpack? Leave a quick comment right below, letting me know!