Peak Design Outdoor Backpack Review

Whether you’re a casual user or an adventure enthusiast, the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack is built to last.

It handles everything from camera gear to hiking essentials, with flexible modular storage to keep you organized.

Being a long-time Peak Design user with multiple backpacks, slings, and straps (Everyday Backpack, Zip, Slide, Micro Clutch, etc), I was very keen to explore the new Outdoor range.

I’ve been using the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L every day for over eight weeks now, and I’ve grown to really appreciate its lightweight nature!

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Peak Design Outdoor Backpack

Rugged, waterproof backpack that looks good, feels great, and offers a versatile packing solution.

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I love the look, and I love the fit. The 45L has received far less use due to its size and intended purpose, but it feels just as solid on my back.

So, with that in mind, let me take you through both backpacks in this article.

We’ll explore the build, compare the two sizes, see how they differ to the Everyday Backpack, and more.

What is the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack?

Peak Design Outdoor Backpack Range Specs

Big adventure or less big adventure? Hauling everything or hauling just enough? Either way, there’s a Peak Design Outdoor Backpack for you.

The Peak Design Outdoor Backpack range consists of two sizes (and three colors): a 25L everyday size and a larger 45L size aimed at the nomad or adventurer.

In addition to the obvious capacity differences, the 45L backpack also has additional features and inclusions over the 25L variation.

For the spec-geek, I’ve listed all the dimensions and capacity differences below for the two sizes, along with the relevant camera cube and packing cubes.

For a quick comparison between the two backpacks, see the next section!

Peak Design Outdoor Backpack – 25L Vs 45L

Other than the obvious capacity difference, there are a few key differences between the two Outdoor Backpacks.

While both the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 45L and 25L have quite a list of common features, they also have a few key differences outside of the obvious capacity and physical size.

Here’s a quick rundown of the differences between the 25L and 45L Outdoor Backpacks.

Features Comparison:

Cubes and Accessories

These are the packing and camera cubes I had available to try within my Outdoor Backpacks.

As you may have now realized, Peak Design offers a wide array of packing/camera cubes and accessories ready to integrate with the Peak Design Outdoor Range and the wider Peak Design bag range.

I won’t be going into items such as the Tech Pouch or Wash Pouch here, but instead will be showing the packing and camera cubes.

25L:

The SMedium still allows you to load up the S and XS Ultra Light Packing cubes (7 t-shirts are in the S and 2 in the XS, maybe you can fit more if you pack better than me).

– 1x SMedium Camera Cube + 1 S Ultra Light Packing Cube + 1 XS Ultra Light Packing Cube
– 1x Small Camera Cube + 2-4x Small Packing Cubes

45L:

If the large camera cube is too much, the SMedium works well and leaves you much more space for additional items

– 1x Large Camera Cube + 1-2x Small Packing Cubes
– 1x Medium Camera Cube + 2-3x Small Packing Cubes
– 1x Small Camera Cube + 1-2x Medium Packing Cubes + 1-2x Small Packing Cubes

Even the Hip Belt comes with pockets for additional items. You’ve done it again Peak Design.

The Hip Belt (optional on 25L, included on 45L) is easily attached or removed by using the button clasp (not sure what to call it).

Four attachment points—two on either side for adjustments—are hidden behind the back panel. The Hip Belt can also be stowed behind the back panel on the 45L backpack.

You’ll also find a small zipper pocket on one side and a small stretchy mesh pocket on the other for accessories. However, I suggest removing the accessories before stowing.

Additionally, while the Outdoor Backpacks are weatherproof, they aren’t necessarily waterfall or torrential rain proof. So Rain Flies (2 size options) are also available for either backpack.

Design and Build Quality

Style and function meet, but is there more style or more function DNA in the Outdoor Backpack?

Right off the bat, the Peak Design Outdoor Backpacks feature the beautiful, striking aesthetic that Peak Design is known for.

They’re available in three colour options: a strong and discrete “Black,” a beautiful “Eclipse” (maroon? burgundy?), and a bright white “Cloud.”

(Side note: Peak Design have made a public note that the Cloud variation will discolour over time due to the protective coating’s natural reaction to sunlight and UV. While it is quite beautiful in white, if you’re somebody who endures the elements fairly often and would be unhappy with said change, it’s recommended to go for Black or Eclipse. Warranty doesn’t cover the discolouration.)

Daringly sitting in a position between a versatile everyday backpack and a capable hiking/adventure backpack, opinions are likely to be rather mixed.

But for me? Well, I use the 25L for my everyday commute and have already taken it away on a couple of short trips. My wife will be taking the 45L overseas. We love these bags already.

The backpack is constructed from lightweight Terra Shell™, a durable, easy-to-clean, and abrasion-resistant material with weatherproofing properties.

Weight has not been a compromise in the build. The backpacks also feature 100% recycled nylon that is free from PFAS and is also found on the new range of Ultralight Packing Cubes™.

Additionally, standard-issue heavy-duty, custom-designed hardware adorns the Outdoor Backpacks, from the strap loops, buckles, and clasps to the Ultra Zips™.

The Outdoor Backpacks truly feel like Peak Design products: built well, built to last, and equipped with a lifetime warranty.

Undeniably from Peak Design, the Outdoor Backpacks are great looking and very well equipped products.

Peak Design is known for its clean aesthetic design, and as usual, it has not let that get in the way of functionality and versatility.

With rear and top access being standard in the Everyday Backpack, the differing approach on the Outdoor line is the expandable roll-top. It’s similar to the WANDRD PRVKE but with a key difference: the Ultra Cinch™ system (more on that in the next section).

These are relatively lightweight from the very get-go, coming in at a mere 1.15kg (2.54lbs) for the 25L and 1.55kg (3.42lbs) for the larger 45L. So the only thing weighing you down is what you pack inside them.

Storage Capacity and Compartments

In addition to the Outdoor Backpack’s open main compartment, you’ll find a few flexible options for additional items and gear.

There are many ways to carry and secure gear both internally and externally on the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack range.

You have:
– 1x large main compartment (with loops to secure Peak Design Camera Cubes)
– 1-2x Flex Pockets™ on either side of the backpack (Total: 2x on 25L, 4x on 45L)
– 1x full-height Flex Pocket™ within the front lid
– 2x Ultra Zip pockets on inner side of said front lid
– 1x laptop/hydration pocket within the back panel
– 2x mesh pockets on the shoulder straps
– 2x mesh pockets on the hip belt (45L included, 25L optional)
– 1x small mesh zipper pocket on the upper-inside of the main compartment (45L only)
– Around 42 points of attachment for the included cord hook packing loops (counted on 45L)

The main compartment of the Outdoor Backpack range is accessible through either the rear panel or roll top, which is secured by the Ultra Cinch™ system.

The external side pockets (Flex Pocket™) are tall, deep, and very stretchy, too. They expand to hold whatever item you decide to drop in, such as a large water bottle, umbrella, tripod, or poles.

The 45L comes with dual Flex Pockets™ on either side. Use a cord hook packing loop to better secure anything that may need it (as pictured with my tripod).

If you have something a little flatter, such as filters in a protective case, cables, a notepad, or a phone, the front Ultra Zip pockets are suitable and easy to access.

If you’re storing memory cards, I’d recommend using a case to keep them together or within easy grasp. Otherwise, you’ll likely have to dig around for them.

Having a large main compartment, the idea is to use Peak Design’s modular cube system to set up the backpack as you need it.

The camera cubes can be secured utilising the included C-Clips. Then, load up your additional loose items within the packing cubes or just drop them in. This methods allows you to do it your way, based on your own changing needs.

Peak Design has a range of different packing and camera cubes available to equip your Outdoor Backpack.

Unlike traditional camera backpacks, which come with a set capacity for camera gear, you can elect to buy big or small depending on how you see fit.

For myself, I don’t tend to carry a lot of camera gear, so a SMedium Camera Cube was more than enough for some small trips with the 25L (allowing compartmentalisation of additional loose items). The Small Camera Cube was suitable for just my Sony a7III with Tamron 28-75mm lens only (no space for accessories/etc) or DJI Mini 3 Pro with two batteries and controller for when I’m going super light.

The 45L Outdoor Backpack will fit the Large Camera Cube, which has enough space for almost anything you’ll likely want to carry on your back. In addition, the Small Ultra Light Packing Cube could be held within the expanded roll top.

In case you missed it, I have provided some examples of how you can combine the different sizes of Camera/Packing cubes near the top of this article.

External carry can be done utilizing the included cord hook packing loops, securing them to any combination of provided places around the body of the backpack.

With the diverse range of securing points dotted around the Outdoor Backpacks, it’s easy to secure a sleeping bag, bulky jackets, tall items, or even utilize the packing cubes externally.

Protection and Security Features

In addition to heavy rain, this is how I tested the water resistance of the outer materials of the Outdoor Backpack.

The outer shell of the Peak Design Outdoor Backpacks doesn’t provide any padding for your equipment. The padding would be provided by the Peak Design Camera Cube, which you opt to secure within your backpack.

However, the back panel does have soft cushioning and a rather sturdy construction to help keep your backpack secure on your person.

What the outer Terra Shell™ does provide is weatherproofing and abrasion protection. This ensures your equipment inside does not succumb to the more intense elements you may put it through.

I placed the backpack on some rocks at the beach and watched as small waves lapped at the backpack. While the back padding did get wet, the inside remained untouched by the water. The outer Terra Shell™ found along the front and base just wiped clean!

There are no locking mechanisms found on these bags, but there are opportunities to provide a bit of extra security for when you’re wearing it.

The Ultra Cinch™ loop covering the roll top requires a good pull on the cord to loosen in order to gain access (similar to the Everyday Backpack MagLatch), something you’d surely feel while trekking through local markets in foreign lands.

Additionally, depending on your external carry configuration, the Ultra Zip pockets on the front lid can be looped and secured, again preventing sneaky individuals from discretely opening them.

Unfortunately, these techniques won’t stop somebody if you place your bag down somewhere unsupervised. For those purposes, it’s best to use an actual security mechanism.

Accessibility and Ease of Use

Simply pull the cord to tighten the Ultra Cinch or pull the tag to loosen again.

To simplify things, the backpack has been kept rather simple: it has one main compartment, a smaller front compartment, and some external pockets.

In saying that, the complications would stem from having so many options available to you in order to properly utilize the space. What cubes do I use? Do I use cubes at all? What’s the best way to secure my gear externally? Do I keep to the Peak Design ecosystem? Do I explore other options? Do I really love her? Is EV or Hybrid the future of motoring?

While I may have opinions on some of the above, it really comes down to you as an individual.

The roll-top is easily accessible and secured using Peak Design’s proprietary Ultra Cinch™ system.

You simply just pull the Ultra Cinch™ Loop away from the body to loosen it, providing access to the roll-top. Then pull the Ultra Cinch™ Cord to tighten it once again (stow it away if you wish).

Simple, but it took me a little bit to figure that out (disclaimer: I watched the video). I was worried about pulling it too hard, but it turns out, that’s the way to go!

It was tough to pull on at first, but once you get it moving a few times, it’s rather smooth sailing. Having the back panel open up the backpack completely makes packing a cinch, while the C-Clips make switching out configurations easy!

Peak Design has also provided a video on how to dial in fitment on the 45L backpack. Making the effort to do so upon delivery will make your life with it just that bit more comfortable.

Comfort and Portability

The oversized vest-style shoulder straps found on the Peak Design Outdoor Backpacks are very, very comfortable.

In conjunction with the solid back panel, the weight distribution is fantastic. The 45L has additional load lifters on the shoulder straps to, again, help with that.

The lightweight nature of the backpacks is very beneficial, considering the intended use may have you carrying quite a lot of gear. The lighter starting point should certainly help, but even as such, while carrying light loads on my commute, it’s appreciated.

Being designed with a slender profile from the beginning helps with portability, as it doesn’t stick out too far from your back (that is, depending on how you load it up). Trying to dart and slip through busy crowds in foreign lands may feel a little more aerodynamic than with other stockier-designed bags!

My wife, with her smaller frame, feels as though the 45L isn’t too cumbersome on her back, and with the slim design, her style-conscious self likes that it doesn’t look too bulky on her either. But just wait until she loads it up for a trip overseas!

Versatility and Travel-Friendliness

Light weight, comfortable fit, and versatility are important contributors to the travel friendliness of the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack.

Peak Design has created this bag to be versatile and dynamic in its use and purpose. Set it up as an everyday carry, prepare it for a short-term hike or adventure, or load it up for a longer journey.

In essence, it’s a lightweight empty shell ready to receive your preferred load-out for your intended goal.

While I would happily use the 25L Outdoor Backpack as my everyday or travel companion, the 45L backpack feels more purposeful in its design. It’s not a bag I’d use to commute, but it’s a bag that would likely accompany me on outdoor adventures that require longer times between stops.

The 45L Outdoor Backpack is probably what a more-seasoned adventurer would aim for, especially for travels where more equipment may be required or for longer periods away from comforts.

Meanwhile, the 25L Outdoor Backpack would possibly be for the lighter adventurer or city explorer (such as myself), where I don’t carry or need a lot of gear.

However, with the external carry capabilities of both backpacks, either can be equipped further than their internal capacity allows, and their weight distribution qualities certainly come into play.

Bush, beach, mountain or city, the Peak Design Outdoor Backpacks are more than suitable for what you set out to see. The durable nature of the materials and design ensures longevity and suitability for testing elements, and they’re more than well-enough equipped for less challenging environments.

Regarding air travel – I am of the belief that the 45L version should fit in the overhead compartments within an aircraft, while the 25L should be OK to fit under the seat.

I’ve not yet taken either on an aircraft to confirm this myself, but I will be jetting off in a few months time (I’ll try to update this article to clarify).

Alternatives to the Outdoor Backpack Range

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack and the Outdoor Backpack aren’t too dissimilar in physical size but vary quite a lot in style and features.

If you’re considering the Peak Design Outdoor Range, you’d likely have also considered (or already own) the Peak Design Everyday Backpack or Travel Backpack.

It also wouldn’t surprise me if you’ve taken notice of the WANDRD Prvke series as well (due to the similar roll-top and durable materials).

My most-used backpack in my rather diverse range is the 20L Everyday Backpack. It’s brilliantly equipped for travel, photography purposes, casual use/commuting, and fine for adventure duties (I’ve taken my Everyday Backpack hiking through Morocco).

Additionally, I have the 30L Travel Backpack, which has served well throughout Asia over the years.

But for those who are more seasoned adventurers looking to put a bag through the elements, the differences in capabilities found in the Outdoor Range would probably be more suitable.

The configuration within the Everyday Backpack tends to involve relocating the internal dividers, whereas the Outdoor Range can be further reconfigured internally and externally to suit almost any need (and it’s slightly lighter, too).

On a scale of Adventure to Everyday, I’d put:

1. Peak Design Outdoor Backpack: More configuration (in and out), very adventure-seeking – open to roughness
2. Peak Design Travel Backpack: Some configuration (mostly in), a little more adventure-seeking
3. Peak Design Everyday Backpack: Less configuration, more casual and comfort with some adventure capability

Price and Value for Money

A great-looking bag wherever you take it, but is it worth the price tag?

The Peak Design Outdoor Backpacks, much like Peak Design gear in general, are not cheap by any means. They’re not generally a bag you’ll just head out to the mall and randomly purchase on a whim, but they’re also not “cheap” when it comes to materials and quality.

The Outdoor Backpack 25L is currently priced at US$250, and the Outdoor Backpack 45L at US$330.

But when considering the lifetime warranty, the over-engineered nature of the build quality, and the versatile usage of the products in general, they’re long lasting purchases. Usually the “I’m going to buy one bag, and keep it forever” type of thing.

The cost-per-use ratio will be rather low by the end of their lifetime.

Still, given the two worlds that the Outdoor Backpacks tend to sit in, they may be a tough choice for some. Is it more “everyday” suited? Is it something more “hiking/adventure” suited? Does it do both well? Does it do neither well?

If you’re on the “it does both well” side, then these backpacks are well worth the money, and then some.

Otherwise, just keep in mind how well built Peak Design products are, and how many still use the V1 of the original Everyday lineup without issue.

Spend wisely on something that’ll last, rather spending twice replacing something that falls apart.

But as always, do your research, do your own testing, and you’ll be able to make up your own mind. What one may think is a bargain, another may see differently.

FAQ’s

Is the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack a camera bag?

No, it’s not a dedicated camera bag. Camera suitability is a value-add found through the addition of camera cubes. It’s a versatile backpack that can be configured to suit almost any purpose. You can make it as camera-ready as you need, or have it serve no photography purposes at all.

How well does the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack do with photography purposes?

Depending on which camera cube you use, it works quite well. However, if you’re someone who stows your camera often (ie: you don’t walk around with camera out for safety or discretionary purposes), it may bother you not having quick access to your camera cube (such as side or top access).

Depending on how you pack your backpack, having a camera cube placed at the top or your camera dropped in through the roll top might actually be more beneficial.

But if you’re one who stops and takes your time for photography, hand-carries/shoulder straps your camera, or uses the Capture Clip, it can suit photography well. You can stow your tripod in a side pocket, your additional gear secure within a camera cube, and spare batteries within the mesh shoulder strap pockets.

Should I buy the 25L or the 45L model?

That comes down to how you intend to use the backpack. Are you seeking something that’ll be exclusive to bigger travels or adventures lugging more gear (45L)? Or something that you can use casually around town, but also load up to take with you on lighter adventures (25L)?

To me, the 45L would be something I’d take if most of the gear I required on adventures had to be worn or carried around more often (camping, longer hikes, needing more equipment, etc.). But the 25L would be something I’d bring if I didn’t need to carry a lot on my actual adventures (i.e., leaving stuff in a hotel room and doing a lighter few hours out and about).

Peak Design Outdoor Backpack Range Review | Conclusion

The Peak Design Outdoor Backpack is a versatile choice for anything from casual light duties to much more demanding needs.

The Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L very quickly captivated me. From the Kickstarter announcement to the initial delivery, it had me at every moment.

It looked cool, it felt nice to use, and it fit so comfortably. It’s been my everyday backpack for the last number of weeks, pushing aside the 20L Everyday Backpack that I already own.

Despite its stylish yet rugged appearance, it also captivated my wife. Although, apparently I should have purchased the 25L Outdoor Backpack in the Eclipse colour range rather than black, but that just means it remains my bag instead of being taken by her. Hers is now the 45L for an upcoming backpacking trip with girlfriends.

But, I don’t know if this range will be for everybody. It’s already had rather polarising reviews, but for myself, I am happy to back it. While I’m not an overly rough-it-out traveller anymore, I do know that this backpack will survive if I decide to head that way once again.

Editor’s Choice

Peak Design Outdoor Backpack

Rugged, waterproof backpack that looks good, feels great, and offers a versatile packing solution.

Check Current Price