The 5 best daypacks up to 18L – for cameras and everyday use
If you're looking for a small daypack that will last for years, you'll find the best options here. These five rucksacks (up to 18 litres) are made from environmentally friendly, durable materials and have strong zips. They are compact, lightweight and comfortable, and popular among photographers, travellers and minimalists who prefer to buy one good bag rather than a new one every year. Less volume means carrying less, but also less weight and more freedom and enjoyment.
Overview of the contents
- Where the 5 selected rucksacks make the difference
- Think Tank DarkLight 14L
- Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip 15L
- Think Tank BackLight 18L
- Think Tank BackLight Sprint 15L
- Peak Design Outdoor Backpack Zip 18L
- What should you look for when buying a small daypack?
- Frequently asked questions about small daypacks
Where the 5 selected backpacks make the difference
What these backpacks have in common is their build quality. They have strong zips, durable materials and a very solid finish. There are no unnecessary frills, only functional features that still feel reliable after years of use.
A small daypack is not only handy, but also a conscious choice. They weigh less, are easier on your back and are simply more enjoyable to use. It is better to buy one very good bag than several that will hurt your back or need to be replaced frequently. The warranty offered by the brands also plays a role. If they believe in the quality of their rucksacks, they often offer a long warranty.
- Build quality: strong zips, sturdy seams and materials that last.
- Smart design: functional layout, compact volumes, optimal carrying comfort.
- Timelessness: no flashy trends, but designs that will still be suitable in five years' time.
- Responsible use of materials: PFAS-free and made with as little impact on the environment as possible.
- Lifespan: these rucksacks are made to be used for years, not to be replaced every year.
Think Tank DarkLight 14L - Daypack for a large telephoto lens
The ThinkTank DarkLight 14L is a small but well-designed backpack that exudes quality in every detail. The bag has two ways of opening: via the sturdy YYK zip at the top, handy if you want quick access to your camera, and via the fully openable back panel. This is the bag for when you're out and about with a 300mm or 150–600mm lens attached to a camera body and need a lightweight, well-protected rucksack for on the go.
Specifications - DarkLight 14L camera bag
- External dimensions: 47.6 x 24.1 x 19 cm
- Internal dimensions: 45 x 21.6 x 12.7 cm
- Weight: 0.94 kg with divider set, rain cover and removable hip belt
- What fits inside: A camera with a large telephoto zoom lens, such as a Canon EOS R6 with RF 100–500mm, Nikon Z6 II with 70–200mm f/2.8, or even a Sony A7 IV with 200–600mm. It also fits an iPad Mini and accessories.
- Colours: Black and Montane green
Compact rucksack with excellent carrying comfort
Inside, you can organise the main compartment yourself with the adjustable divider system. There is enough space for a camera with a large telephoto lens and extra accessories. If you remove the dividers, you can easily use the bag for clothing or other travel essentials. This rucksack is compact enough to take with you on a plane.
The front features sturdy webbing to which you can attach additional ThinkTank pouches, making the bag not only expandable but also sturdy. The DarkLight 14L remains stable when you set it down, which is very handy in practice. The AirMesh back panel with air channel provides ventilation and carrying comfort, while the PFAS-free, water-repellent coating protects your belongings from moisture. In heavy rainfall, the included rain cover keeps everything dry.
Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip 15L - small backpack for everyday use
The Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip 15L is the most elegant backpack in this range. Women in particular will appreciate its streamlined shape and refined design. This ensures that it does not look like a camera bag, but like a stylish, modern daypack that you can carry anywhere. Attention has been paid to every detail: from the seamless finish to the smooth-running magnetic closures. This is now the third generation of this bag, which means that the design has been refined down to the last detail.
Specifications - Everyday Backpack Zip 15L
- External dimensions: 42 cm x 28 cm x 14 cm
- Internal dimensions: approx. 37 x 23 x 12 cm
- Weight: 1.34 kg with divider set
- What fits inside: A compact camera set such as a Fujifilm X-T5 with 23mm f/1.4, Sony A7 IV with 24–70mm f/4, or Canon EOS R8 + RF 24–105mm. Also has room for a 13‘ MacBook, 10’ tablet, small tripod, water bottle, chargers and personal items.
- Colours: Black, Eclipse (purple-red) and Kelp (green-brown)
Stylish daypack that will give you years of enjoyment
The bag is not only beautifully designed, but also extremely practical. The zip closure with high-quality UltraZip zips runs along the side, allowing you to quickly access your belongings without taking everything out. Inside, you'll find adjustable FlexFold dividers, allowing you to customise the layout to suit your camera, laptop or daily essentials.
An elastic mesh side pocket holds a water bottle or tripod, and the padded laptop compartment protects a 13-inch laptop or tablet. The exterior is made of durable, water-repellent 400D nylon canvas, so your gear stays protected even in inclement weather. With Peak Design's lifetime warranty, you know this bag is built to last for years to come.
The backpack is available in three colours: Black (classic and timeless), Eclipse (a deep purple-red shade with an elegant look) and Kelp (a warm, green-brown colour that complements a natural look). The Everyday Backpack Zip is also available in a 20L version for those who want a little more space. Both models combine style, comfort and functionality in a compact rucksack that can be used every day.
Think Tank BackLight 18L - sturdy rucksack with camera compartment
The ThinkTank BackLight 18L is the largest rucksack in this series. With a capacity of 18 litres, it offers enough space for those who like to carry a little extra, without the bag feeling bulky. This camera bag is designed for photographers who are often on the go, but thanks to its smart layout and carrying comfort, it is also ideal for travellers and hikers looking for a durable, well-organised rucksack.
Specifications - BackLight 18L
- External dimensions: 47 x 27 x 18 cm
- Internal dimensions: 42.5 x 24 x 14 cm
- Weight: 1.6 kg (including dividers and rain cover)
- What fits inside: Two camera bodies such as a Canon R6 with RF 24–70mm and Sony A7 IV with 70–200mm f/2.8, or one camera body with a larger telephoto zoom such as a Nikon Z7 II with 100–400mm. Depending on your main lens, there is also room for 1–3 extra lenses, a 13" laptop, tablet, tripod and other items for on the go.
- Colours: Black / Montane Green
Space, comfort and direct access
The bag opens from the back, so you can access your gear without putting the rucksack down. This is not only practical when shooting on uneven terrain, but also keeps your rucksack clean and dry. Inside, you'll find an adjustable divider system that allows you to tailor the layout to your cameras, lenses and accessories.
There is ample space for 1–2 camera bodies, multiple lenses and personal items in the top compartment. The bag also has a padded compartment for a 13-inch laptop and 10-inch tablet. The exterior is made of durable 420D ripstop nylon with a water-repellent PU coating and is finished with YKK RC-Fuse zips that remain smooth even with frequent use.
The sturdy construction, comfortable carrying system and slim profile make the BackLight 18L suitable for long days outdoors, road trips or hikes with camera equipment. It is truly a rucksack that will last for years, even with intensive use.
ThinkTank BackLight Sprint 15L – lightweight rucksack for active photographers
The ThinkTank BackLight Sprint 15L is the compact version of the popular BackLight 18L, made for those who like to travel light but want to protect their gear. With a capacity of 15 litres, this rucksack is ideal for cyclists, hikers and photographers who want to carry their camera gear safely and comfortably during an active day.
Specifications - BackLight Sprint 15L
- External dimensions: 44.5 x 23 x 17 cm
- Internal dimensions: 42 x 21 x 14 cm
- Weight: 1 kg
- What fits inside: A system camera with lens such as Sony A7C II with 24–105mm, Canon R7 with 100–400mm, or Fujifilm X-S20 with 18–55mm, plus 1–3 extra lenses. Also suitable as a combo bag with camera and clothing or jacket.
- Colours: Black and Montane Green
Lightweight, sturdy daypack with camera compartment
The bag opens at the back with YKK RC-Fuse zips, so you can access your gear without putting the rucksack down. This is useful when photographing in nature or on dusty ground. Inside, the layout can be flexibly adjusted with the adjustable dividers, providing space for a camera with attached lens and 1-3 additional lenses. The dividers have EVA foam reinforcement. Thanks to its compact size and ergonomic shape, the bag sits stably on the back for any body type.
‘The bag sits stably on the back for any body type.’
The exterior is made of durable 420D Velocity nylon with a water-repellent DWR and PU coating. In addition, the mesh structure allows the back panel to ventilate. This keeps the bag comfortable, even in hot weather or during intensive use.
Peak Design Outdoor Backpack Zip 18L - lightweight rucksack for day trips
The Peak Design Outdoor Backpack Zip 18L is a lightweight but sturdy backpack for everyday use. With its 18-litre capacity, it is compact but spacious enough to hold a Peak Design Camera Cube or a day's worth of gear. The bag retains its shape thanks to its lightweight metal frame, which prevents it from collapsing and ensures it sits comfortably on your back.
Specifications - Outdoor Backpack Zip 18L
- External dimensions: 47.6 x 27.5 x 15.5 cm
- Internal dimensions: approximately 47 x 26 x 15 cm
- Weight: 1.0 kg
- What fits inside: With a Camera Cube SMedium, you can fit a set such as Sony A7 IV with 24–70mm f/2.8, Canon R8 with RF 70–200mm f/4 or Fujifilm X-T5 with 16–55mm f/2.8, plus small accessories. Or one camera body with a fixed prime lens and a compact drone (e.g. the DJI Mini series) with controller and two batteries. The rear compartment fits either a water bag or a 13" laptop.
- Colours: Black, Eclipse (purple-red) and Kelp (green-brown)
Camera backpack with hydration system
This backpack is compatible with optional Peak Design Packing Tools, such as Camera Cubes and Tech Pouches. That makes it flexible: use it as a camera bag or as a regular daypack. Inside, there is room for a separately available Camera Cube SMedium with a standard camera and medium lens (24-70 mm f/2.8), plus personal items. There is a compartment at the back that fits a water bag or 13-inch laptop.
The exterior is made from 100% recycled 210D ripstop nylon (Terra Shell) with a PFAS-free water-repellent coating, and the interior is lined with soft polyester and EVA reinforcement. This keeps your gear well protected from knocks and rain, without making the bag heavy.
What should you look for when buying a daypack?
Choosing a daypack is very personal and depends largely on what you want to use it for. If you are faced with this choice, here are three points to consider:
- The volume - Choose a size that suits your needs. A 14 to 18 litre rucksack is ideal for everyday use or short trips. It offers enough space for a laptop, water bottle and jacket, but remains compact and lightweight.
- The strength of the zips - The zip is often the first part to wear out. Choose rucksacks with YKK zips or similar quality. These are smooth to use and can withstand intensive opening and closing.
- The lifespan of the bag - Look beyond just the appearance. Pay attention to the quality of the stitching, reinforced corners and repairable parts. Although no rucksack lasts forever, a rucksack that still feels sturdy after years of use is ultimately the best investment.
Frequently asked questions about small daypacks
Can a camera bag be washed in the washing machine?
No, a camera bag should not be put in the washing machine or dryer. The heat and movement can damage the fabric, zips and lining. If you want to clean your bag, do so by hand in a bucket of lukewarm water and mild soap. Use a soft brush or cloth and then leave the bag to dry naturally in the air.
What is a limited lifetime warranty?
A limited lifetime warranty means that the manufacturer will repair or replace your bag free of charge in the event of manufacturing defects or material problems. Wear and tear from normal use, such as tears, discolouration or misuse, is not covered. By ‘lifetime’, the manufacturer means the lifetime of the product, not that of the user.
Why do backpack zips always break?
Zips often break due to overuse. If you overfill your backpack, too much pressure is put on the zip and seams. Small daypacks have sturdy zips, but they also have a maximum capacity. Respect that capacity for a longer lifespan. The Think Tank rucksacks listed here have extra sturdy YKK zips, and Peak Design uses their own UltraZip zips. These last much longer than a standard zip.
How big should a daypack be for everyday use?
For everyday use or city use, a backpack of around 14-20 litres is often ideal. It is light enough to carry comfortably, but offers enough space for essentials such as a laptop, camera, water bottle and jacket. Expert advice recommends this volume as suitable for day trips or commuting.
How do I choose the right size for my backpack?
Don't just look at litres, but also at torso length and hip width. A good fit ensures that the weight is not carried on your shoulders but via your hips. The back panel should be snug and the hip belt wide enough to distribute the weight.
Is a waterproof coating necessary for a daypack with a camera?
Yes, a water-repellent coating or integrated rain cover is definitely useful when carrying your camera or lenses. Material with a DWR coating provides better protection against moisture, and a rain cover gives you extra security in case of sudden rain.
