I bought both the 45 and 25 outdoor packs. These bags are not camera bags in any way, they are backpacks that can hold a camera cube…….kind of. There is zero room for any of the small accessories that all photographers seem to accumulate. The 2 zippered pockets on the front flap part have no organization. The pull down part realistically is only for flat stuff or soft goods. Anything else just sticks through to the camera cube part making for a lumpy cube. The large v2 cube does NOT FIT in the 45 bag. Physically, yes it fits but you can not access stuff near the top without pulling dividers out or pulling the cube out. The v2 cubes that you are forced to buy are not even close to tall enough. I am forced to lay lenses flat that used to fit standing up in the original cubes. Laying lenses flat now takes up twice the space, so now 1 lens takes up 2 spots. I am forced to stand up a few lenses which is leaving them unprotected which is the point of an actual camera bag.
The chest straps are horribly uncomfortable. The backpack straps are not even close to long enough for tall people. The padded part ends above my armpit. I appreciate that this can hold a water bladder, but a filled bladder would take up precious camera space. I would also in no way ever put a water bladder in the same compartment as $20,000 worth of camera gear. The 25 is ok for packing a small day bag worth of gear but still unorganized.
PD has failed photographers with all of the latest camera bags.
I supported these bags on kickstarter because of my previous experience with the company. I have multiple sizes of the travel backpacks, multiple v1 and v2 cubes, probably a dozen smaller tech bags in different configurations and sizes, multiple camera straps and other doodads etc. these bags are a fail….big fail.
The 45L outdoor backpack has now become my go-to everyday carry bag. It's spacious but doesn't feel big (I'm 5'10). The straps are comfy, and comfy enough that I didn't need to keep the waist belt on -- removing the waist belt also lessens the bulk of the bag! All the cord loop system is great, I love love it ! I was even to rig the old PD key chain along with the anchor to create a key holder on the backpack strap! The new design for accessing the top of the bag is amazing, super easy to use and now that I've been using it for awhile, its become the best bag access method I've ever tried! And I got this bag along with the 2L outdoor sling and I now can finally attach the sling to the backpack straps which is just pure magic for me!!! If there's one improvement for the next iteration, I would recommend to move the inside pocket onto the outside, just in the kangaroo pouch area so that it's easier to access, but to do a work around for my set up, I transferred the key loop that comes with the bag onto the one of the loops by the kangaroo pouch and attached an old pencil pouch to it :) oh and and the mesh by the backpack straps at first I wouldn't use but now that's where I put my wallet on one and my earpods on the other! TBH BEST BAG EVER IT IS PURE MAGIC!!
I spent years searching for a backpack like this, and I’ve finally found it.
This backpack is perfect for everything—whether you’re heading to the mountains or just using it for your daily life. As a photographer and motorcyclist, it’s incredibly practical. Plus, it works seamlessly with Peak Design’s camera modules.
The external compartments are a lifesaver when you need extra storage space on the go. It’s also packed with features that make it even better: it’s super comfortable to wear, with reinforced padding for added support and security, and it’s compatible with waterproof covers to protect your gear in any weather. There’s even a dedicated compartment for your laptop, keeping it safe and easy to access.
So, what fits in my 45L backpack?
Sony A7 III camera 2 lenses DJI Ronin stabilizer DJI Mini 4 drone DJI Action Camera + accessories Batteries + chargers Macbook PRO Tripod (attached externally) Extra room for a hoodie I can confidently say I’ve found THE PERFECT BACKPACK.
This bag has been perfect for my travels taking a laptop, camera and backpacking gear and has fit in overhead compartment of air china and Ryanair. Only forthcoming is there is no way to fasten rolled up top sides which I wouldn’t have expected from peak design. And the bottle holders are amazing for anything!
I was looking for a cool backpack for outdoor use. This backpack is well thought out in terms of functionality and also looks cool. Personally, I really like the material.
I backed this product in Kickstarter. The quality is great, and most important thing for me is that the design is very unique and cool. There is no similar product in the market so I am really satisfied with it.
I ordered the 25l version thinking this was a great value for photographers and skiing. Big disappointment it was. For skiing everything is to meddlesome to fiddle with. The camera pouch is not easily accessible and the straps on the chest you cannot use wearing gloves. Entering a sky lift is to much trouble. For photo walking it would have been my primary goal. However. No easy access to equipment during walking. For me this backpack is a big and expensive mistake!
Full Disclosure I am a huge fan of PD so take that for what it’s worth. I got the 45L outdoor bag (Eclipse colorway is beautiful) to compliment my 30L everyday bag when I have a larger load with the kids and it does not disappoint. Starting with the strap fit, once dialed in (I am on the third ladder from the bottom with a 19” torso if that helps anyone) the stiff back panel comfortably hugs your back and helps distribute and balance your load. The stow-ability of the hip belt is also really well executed and always having it available is appreciated in my middle age. This is a TALL bag, but it’s low profile enough it doesn’t look or feel absurd when I am not hiking, and expands nicely with whatever random stuff my kids need for a given day/hike or for me on a short overnight work trip. There are three main access points to the storage areas. The clamshell back provides a straight shot to your gear, makes packing into the open main compartment super easy, and with some strategic packing offers on body access to gear. The next two main areas are accessed via The Ultra Cinch, which keeps up the tradition of unique and handy top access. Tug the loop and get immediate access to a flex pocket that also creates a platform for securing jackets, towels, birthday presents, scooters your kid decided to stop riding halfway through your walk, etc. This is honestly the most frequently used compartment for me. Next is the chimney which opens easily, closes automatically, and gives top access to the bag’s contents. Those 3 main access points are supported by…pockets everywhere. The side zip pockets are great for stuffing little things and have attachment loops for organizers. The pockets in the strap and hip belt are convenient for stashing quick access items. The side flex pockets are great for stuffing, and the stretch mesh feels made to last. Camera cubes are a great addition if you like shelf style organization and secure easily to the sides. Finally, the external attach points and flexible cords offer endless options for the outside. As someone constantly on the search for the bag that will “do it all” this one is as close as I have come in flexibility. I will likely compliment it with the 7L sling as a personal item for air travel but really well done.