Photography Backpack Review: The Shimoda Action X50 – The Best Camera Bag for Adventure and Landscape Photographers in 2025
As photographers, we know our gear is only as good as the pack carrying it. And let me tell you, the Shimoda Action X50 isn’t just a camera bag—it’s the adventure photographer’s secret weapon. This might actually be the last backpack you’ll ever need, and here’s why…
Built for big adventures…
The Shimoda Action X50 is more than a bag—it’s a carefully designed tool that adapts to the challenges of real outdoor photography. Whether you’re trekking through the Rockies, hiking in the Italian Dolomites, or tackling a long via ferrata climb, this pack feels like an extension of your creative process. The standout feature? That roll-top storage. It’s like having a little magic pocket for extra layers, your drone, or even food when you’re deep in the backcountry. It’s flexible and expands just when you need it most.
IMAGE CAPTURED BY: https://www.instagram.com/rossbernards/ | ROSS B.
Hidden side pockets make grabbing your tripod or water bottle quick and easy, but zip away seamlessly when you don’t need them—perfect for keeping your pack sleek while scrambling or hiking tight trails. And then there’s the removable camera pouch. This feature is a game changer. Not only is it waterproof (no fear if the weather turns), but it pulls out completely, so you can slip it into another bag if you’re traveling light. It’s versatility like this that sets the Shimoda apart from everything else out there.
Comfort that has your back…
When you’re hauling camera gear, extra lenses, drones, and all the accessories that come with being a landscape or adventure photographer, comfort becomes non-negotiable. The load lifters on this pack are designed to handle heavy loads, keeping the weight balanced across your body and reducing fatigue over miles of hiking.
The shoulder straps feature easy-access pockets for your phone and keys—no more digging through the main compartment for the essentials. And while the hip belt pockets aren’t huge, they’re perfect for quick-grab items like lens caps, snacks, or a multi-tool. I’ve taken this pack on a multi-day rifugio-to-rifugio trek in the Italian Dolomites, covering over 60 miles of rugged terrain in six days. We scrambled, climbed via ferrata sections, and hiked endless pitched trails, and the Shimoda Action X50 handled it all like a champ. No shifting, no awkward pressure points—just consistent support and durability.
IMAGE CAPTURED BY: https://www.instagram.com/rossbernards/ | ROSS B.
Durability meet function… This backpack isn’t just smart—it’s built tough. Whether you’re navigating sharp rock outcroppings or sliding it into the overhead bin on a crowded flight, the Shimoda Action X50 feels like it’s ready for anything.
For photographers who don’t just point and shoot but climb, hike, and chase light in remote, unpredictable locations, this pack is your dream companion. If you’re serious about landscape, adventure, or travel photography, the Shimoda Action X50 has your back—literally. From its customizable features to its rugged design, this bag is built to go where big shots are made. And with larger versions that can handle 1–2 night backpacking trips, it’s more than just a camera bag—it’s a multi-purpose adventure pack for photographers who push the limits. If you’re on the hunt for a new backpack, save this review and check out the Shimoda Action X50. This might just be the best camera bag you’ll ever own.
IMAGE CAPTURED BY: https://www.instagram.com/rossbernards/ | ROSS B.
Let’s check out some technical specs of the Shimoda Action X-Series:
Weight: 4.18 lb *1.9kg)
External Dimensions: 11.8" W x 22" H x 8.3" D (30 cm W x 56 cm H x 21 cm D)Internal Dimensions: 11.6" W x 21.9" H x 8.1" D (29.5 cm W x 55.5 cm H x 20.5 cm D)
Laptop Compartment Dimensions: 10" W x 15" H x 0.8" D (25.5 cm W x 38 cm H x 2 cm D)
Roll-Top Access: Expandable storage for extra gear or clothing
Rear-Panel Access: Quick access to camera gear via the back panel
Adjustable Torso Height: Customizable fit with four height options
Removable Hip Belt: Provides support for heavy loads and can be detached when not needed
Hydration Bladder Sleeve: Dedicated sleeve for hydration systems
Tripod and Water Bottle Pockets: Side pockets designed to securely carry tripods or water bottles
Multiple Access Points: Top, side, and rear access for versatile gear retrieval
Modular Core Unit Compatibility: Customizable internal organization with Shimoda's Core Unit system
Weather-Resistant Materials: Constructed with durable, water-resistant materials to protect gear
Compression Straps: Help stabilize the load and attach additional gear externally
