Photography adds weight and complexity to a backpacking trip, but a good plan keeps it manageable. This guide covers deciding what to bring, carrying it, and protecting it. Start with the basics on the backpacking gear list and then add the camera on top.
Decide how much camera to carry
Be honest about how you will use the camera. A phone may be enough for casual photos, while a dedicated camera helps for landscapes and low light. Every lens, tripod, and extra battery adds weight, so many backpackers carry one body and one or two lenses at most.
Choosing a camera
- Phone: Always with you, light, and good in decent conditions.
- Compact camera: A step up in image quality for small weight.
- Mirrorless: Strong quality with interchangeable lenses, often lighter than a DSLR.
- Action camera: Rugged, small, and good for video and wide scenes.
The best camera to take backpacking is usually the one you will actually carry and use.
Carry systems
Common options include:
- Chest clip or chest pouch: Keeps the camera accessible and off your hips.
- Camera clip on a shoulder strap: Holds the camera near your shoulder.
- Camera cube or padded insert inside your pack: Protects gear but is slower to reach.
- Camera backpack with a dedicated compartment: Handy for day hikes, though many are heavier than typical backpacking packs.
Accessibility matters. If the camera is hard to reach, you may not use it.
Protecting gear from weather and dust
- Use a dry bag or waterproof pack liner
- Pack silica gel packets to reduce moisture
- Carry a rain cover or a simple plastic bag for the camera
- Keep lenses capped and use a lens cloth
- Avoid rapid temperature changes to reduce fogging
Power and storage
Bring spare batteries and keep them warm in cold weather. A small power bank can help, and solar charging is unreliable in many conditions. Carry extra memory cards and consider backing up photos when you can.
Tripod and accessories
A lightweight tabletop tripod or using trekking poles can help stabilize shots. Consider skipping filters or extras unless you use them often.
Action cameras and GoPros
Mount one on a shoulder strap or chest harness for hands-free recording. Tighten mounts so the camera does not swing, and check that it is secure on steep terrain.
Budget the weight
Decide on a camera weight allowance before you pack and compare it to your overall load. If something seems heavy, consider whether you will use it. Find ideas on selecting other items in best gear for backpacking, and see how to store backpacking gear for caring for gear at home.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best backpack for hiking with camera gear?
It depends on your trip. For backpacking, many people use a regular pack with a padded camera insert, since dedicated camera packs can be heavier.
How to carry a GoPro while hiking?
Use a chest or shoulder mount, or keep it in a hip belt pocket and take it out when needed.