Review: AmazonBasics Backpack for SLR Cameras and Accessories (Model # 1393R1)

I just bought my first DSLR camera, a Canon EOS Rebel T3i, and quickly realized that I needed a bag for it. At first I looked at shoulder bags and top loading bags, but soon realized that a backpack would be easier to carry around and better at holding all of the accessories as well.

I like saving money, so when I came across the "AmazonBasics Backpack for SLR Cameras and Accessories" (Model 1393R1) for under $30, I was certainly intrigued... Many backpacks are expensive, costing $100 or more, and even the relatively cheap Canon Backpack 200EG is almost $40 on sale...

So I bought it and here's what I like about it so far....

This picture shows the backpack holding my Canon EOS Rebel T3i and the following accessories: EFS 55-250mm Lens, ring flash, fliters, wide angle lens, 2.0x telephoto lens, and lens hood.

As you can see, I still have plenty of room. Actually, I could probably put some of those accessories in the exterior pockets, and then I'd have room for more lenses or even another camera.... So you could carry 2 cameras and/or lots of lenses in this backpack.

One impressive aspect of this bag is all of the padding. See how the zippers have a protective flap so that they don't rub on your camera equipment?

I think the inside pockets are good for things that won't damage your camera or lens.. Soft, small, or flexible things like paperwork, a small guidebook, a memory card wallet, etc. For bigger/harder things, I'd recommend using the exterior pockets so that there's padding between those and your camera and lenses.

ALL of structure of the main compartment is removable! That's right, you can rearrange it to tightly hold your camera and lenses.

It has 6 small velcro dividers, 2 large velcro dividers (these go almost the whole length of the bag and can be seen in the first large photo), and 2 straps.

You could add more velcro straps if you need to. The straps can be used to pull the padding tight around your camera and lenses so that they stay in place.

It's not advertised as waterproof or water resistant. However, some customer reviews state that their camera stayed dry during light rain, or when the bag was placed in a damp or humid environment.

I sprayed my bag with waterproofing silicone, and I'm hoping that will help keep the contents dry. I think I'm going to bring some plastic bags with so that if needed, I can wrap the camera or the bag in plastic.