Peak Design Outdoor Backpack Review [25L & 45L]

Peak Design’s Outdoor Backpacks come in two sizes, 25L and 45L, and aim to balance photography gear storage with day-hike functionality, not an easy task; and I say that as a photographer and a hiking enthusiast myself.

Both backpacks incorporate a roll-top closure, ample organizational features, and a harness system inspired by running vests. Because I regularly carry camera equipment on hikes, I’m always curious about how well a backpack can handle both camera protection and general outdoor use.

Here’s my take on how these two packs perform in real-world scenarios.

Key specifications

• Price: $250 for the 25L, $330 for the 45L at PeakDesign.com (accessories sold separately)
• Capacity: 25L (frameless), 45L (internal frame)
• Materials: 210D ripstop nylon, Woojin hardware, #8 UltraZip™
• Roll-top expansion: 5L extra on the 25L, 11L extra on the 45L
• Harness: Adjustable running vest-style shoulder straps with load lifters (45L)
• Weight: 25L = 1.15 kgs (2.54 lbs) / 45L = 1.55kgs (3.42 lbs)

About Peak Design

Peak Design is known for creating camera-focused bags and accessories that started on crowdfunding platforms. Their gear typically integrates camera cubes, Capture Clips, and other modular add-ons.

This approach appeals to photographers who need quick lens and accessory swaps, but Peak Design also tries to serve the broader travel and outdoor community with these new backpacks.

Differentiators in today’s photography/outdoor backpack market

Both sizes include the Ultra Cinch™ roll-top for extra capacity. The design also provides full rear-panel access, making it straightforward to grab gear from the inside without having to unroll the top.

With integrated loops and the Cord Hook™ system, it’s possible to attach extra items or secure them externally which is very helpful if you need quick access to a jacket or tripod.

Peak Design’s modular approach continues with their organisational camera cubes, which fit inside seamlessly and keep your gear from rattling around.

What’s good

The Peak Design Outdoor Backpacks both shine in their versatility and thoughtful organization.

The combination of a roll-top closure with a clamshell back-panel opening provides excellent accessibility options.

The roll-top gives you the flexibility to expand storage (5L for the 25L and 11L for the 45L) and the clamshell design makes it easy to locate and retrieve items from the back, without needing to rummage through everything.

Whether you’re carrying camera gear, hiking essentials, or everyday items, these access points and multitude of packing and camera cubes make it possible to organise the bag, the way you want.

The downside of all this choice is of course, overwhelm – there are so many straps and cords, that it’s not easy to know what to do with them all at first.

The modularity is another strong point for those who appreciate extra options, however.

These backpacks work seamlessly with Peak Design’s camera cubes, packing cubes, and Capture Clips, letting you customize the internal and external setup.

The internal compartments and external pockets, like the hip belt, shoulder straps, and side mesh sleeves, add even more opportunities to stay organized.

The Cord Hook™ system allows for creative external attachments, like securing a tripod, jacket, or other gear, which is especially handy for photography-focused users.

For comfort, the 45L model features an adjustable harness system with load lifters, accommodating different torso lengths and making it ideal for longer hikes or trips.

The running vest-inspired straps distribute weight across your torso more evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders and allowing for quick access to small items stored in the stretch mesh pockets, like your mobile phone, or snacks for example.

The back panel, with its padding and aeration, keeps your back comfortable and relatively sweat-free during longer days out.

The material quality is very much premium, as you would expect from expensive gear like this.

The 210D ripstop nylon is lightweight, water-resistant, and sustainably produced, aligning with Peak Design’s environmental ethos.

The hardware, including Woojin buckles and #8 UltraZip™ zippers, feels durable and well-made, and I’m sure, capable of withstanding tough conditions.

The pack’s sleek, minimalist design transitions effortlessly from trails to urban settings, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts who also need a travel-friendly or commuter pack.

Finally, both models meet carry-on size requirements, fitting into overhead compartments and making them a good choice for travelers. If you’re someone who regularly juggles photography, travel, and outdoor exploration, these backpacks offer a good blend of utility, comfort, and style.

Areas for improvement

For heavier loads, approaching four pounds (for the 45L pack), before adding camera cubes and accessories can be limiting if you aim for a hyperlight, minimal backpacking setup.

Relying heavily on additional camera cubes, packing cubes, or tech pouches can add to the overall cost but also overwhelm, and the fear of not getting the best setup for your needs.

For specific activities like fast-paced outdoor adventures, or hiking in very cold conditions, these backpacks may not be the most practical choice.

One issue is the lack of glove-friendly features, the chest straps and other adjustments are difficult to use while wearing gloves, which is inconvenient in cold-weather scenarios.

Additionally, accessing the internal camera cube while on the go can feel a little cumbersome as the camera access is from the rear and the camera cube is not attached to the bag itself.

This makes it awkward for quick photo opportunities or efficient use during some activities.

The bag’s design also uses a crazy amount of straps, cordage and compartments that can feel overly fiddly – especially when you’re not using them all – the minimalists out there will feel anxiety creeping in when trying to use them all correctly.

For photography walks, where quick access to your gear is critical, the lack of a side entry point, becomes frustrating.

My verdict

Peak Design’s Outdoor Backpacks offer a well-thought-out organizational system for photographers who want to explore trails without constantly swapping bags.

The roll-top expansion, multi-point access, and camera-focused features will appeal to those balancing photography with light outdoor adventures. However, the hydration layout, and weight, may deter serious backpackers or minimalists.

If you already own Peak Design’s accessories and want an all-in-one setup for travel and day hikes, these backpacks make sense, just be aware of the price and the need for extra add-ons to complete the experience.

Let me know what you think! Have you used any Peak Design gear before? Let me know your thoughts on it – and if you enjoyed this review, subscribe to my newsletter and check out my YouTube channel for more outdoor gear reviews like this one!