Nomatic McKinnon 35L Camera Backpack Review

As a working photographer, I am always looking for ways to travel light. But fitting camera gear, toiletries, and 2 days of clothes into one backpack usually feels like a stretch. With the Nomatic McKinnon 35L Camera Backpack, I managed it easily without feeling like I sacrificed anything. Sure, it felt heavy when fully loaded, but this pack is built to carry that kind of load while staying comfortable.

When it comes to camera travel bags, there are a few non-negotiables. You need easy organization, protection for expensive gear, and enough comfort to survive long travel days.

Nomatic already has a solid reputation for clean and efficient design, but the McKinnon 35L, created with photographer Peter McKinnon, takes things to the next level. It blends sleek, travel-friendly style with pro-level storage, keeping camera bodies, lenses, accessories, and travel essentials all in one carry-on-sized backpack.

In short: If you want a bag that carries photo gear and trip essentials without hassle, the Nomatic McKinnon 35L delivers. With smart storage, tough materials, and streamlined features, it quickly became my top choice for work trips, quick shoots, and weekend getaways.

Compare the McKinnon with other top picks in our Best Camera Backpacks of 2025 guide.

Nomatic McKinnon 35L Camera Backpack Review

What Makes the McKinnon 35L Stand Out

The McKinnon 35L comes at a premium price but hits the sweet spot for quality, function, and style. With separate compartments for camera gear and travel essentials, it solves the classic headache of having to juggle multiple bags. It works just as well for professional gigs as it does for personal trips where you want to keep it simple.

Dialed-In Camera Storage That Keeps Gear Protected

For context, my usual kit includes:

• Two digital camera bodies with lenses
• One or two extra lenses
• Two film cameras with lenses
• Flash and wireless mic setup
• SD cards, filters, lens wipes, and spare film

Everything fits easily inside the padded camera compartment with space to spare. The back panel has extra zippered pockets and a padded sleeve for a laptop or tablet. Behind the shoulder straps, there is also a quick-access laptop slot that comfortably holds a 16-inch MacBook Pro. The layout is smart and protective and makes everything easy to grab.

Flexible Travel Compartment for Clothes and Essentials

On the opposite side, the clamshell opening reveals the travel compartment. I packed two changes of clothes, toiletries, and a few extras in here without any issues. The expansion zipper lets the pack go from 35 L to 42 L, which really comes in handy for last-minute additions or those messier return trips.

This is not a bag for big packing lists or fashion hauls. It will not fit multiple pairs of shoes, but it works great for minimalist travel. I typically wear my bulkiest shoes and sometimes add a pair of sandals or flip-flops to the front compartment.

Thoughtful Comfort and Rugged Features Built for Travel Days

Even loaded to the max, I stayed comfortable. The padded shoulder straps feel great, the waist strap helps distribute weight, and the chest strap keeps things stable on long walks. It is built for comfort even when packed out.

Inside the camera compartment, the four medium and five small dividers are solid with grippy Velcro that stays put. The padding feels thick enough to absorb bumps and keep expensive gear safe.

I also appreciated the weatherproof zippers and water-resistant fabric. During a few unexpected rainstorms, I skipped the rain cover (that is an additional purchase) and my gear stayed totally dry. The bag feels durable and high-quality without looking bulky or overly tactical.

Real-World Testing: How the McKinnon 35L Performed on Trips

I tested this pack during overnight trips, work shoots, and short personal getaways. I am tall but lean, so I always notice weight distribution and how it feels after several hours. This pack kept the weight balanced and stayed comfortable, even when fully loaded. I also liked having both hands free, especially in airports or on busy streets.

The side pockets handled tripods and water bottles well, and it fit in most overhead bins without trouble. It will not fit under the seat on smaller planes, but it has been fine on standard flights.

I also appreciated the low-profile design. It does not scream camera bag and moves through airports with ease. I often need to hand-check film with TSA, and the full-zip back access made it quick and simple without unpacking everything.

Room for Improvement

The biggest downside is the overall size. It is a large backpack, especially with the expansion unzipped. It usually fits overhead, but will not fit under the seat unless you are really packing light.

After sprinting through multiple airports, I definitely found myself wishing this backpack could convert into a roller bag. When packed to the brim, the weight started to feel like a burden, though the sturdy, well-padded handles made it easier to carry by hand when I needed a break.

One thing to note is that the pack does not come with a rain cover, but you can buy a separate one. While the materials are water-resistant and handled light rain well during testing, in heavier downpours, you might want extra protection, especially for expensive camera gear.

Final Take: Who Should Use the McKinnon 35L Camera Backpack

If you travel often for photography and want to keep it simple with one bag for gear and personal essentials, the Nomatic McKinnon 35L Camera Backpack nails it. It is not for casual weekend trips where you do not need camera gear, but for quick work trips and compact travel, it has become my favorite.

For anyone who values clean design, tough weather resistance, and dialed organization, this pack delivers. It is built to handle heavy loads and tough travel while still looking clean and stylish.