When it comes to finding the perfect camera bag, you need to make sure that it will hold everything you could possibly need when heading out on a shoot. Designed in collaboration with renowned photographer and videographer Peter McKinnon, the GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L is a great choice for photographers and videographers who need to carry a lot of gear, but also want to stay organized and comfortable while doing it.
With a capacity of 35 litres, which expands to 42 litres, it can accommodate a wide range of camera equipment, including multiple camera bodies, lenses and accessories. It also has a handy compartment with plenty of room for clothes, meaning if you’re on a trip, you don’t have to worry about taking too many bags.
I tested the GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L on a recent weekend trip to see how well it performed, how comfortable it was to use, and how much stuff I could put in it. Still wondering which camera bag is best for you? Then check out our roundup of the best camera bags and cases in 2023 (opens in new tab).
Key Features – GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L
Dimensions: 55.9 x 34.3 x 22.9 cm
Capacity: 35l expandable to 42l
Weight: 5.75 lbs
Laptop case? Yes, up to 16″
Waterproof? Yes
Straps? Yes, waist and shoulder
Design – GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L
The GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35l has a sleek, minimalist design that’s perfect for those who want a professional-looking bag that doesn’t draw too much attention. The body is made of high-quality tarpaulin material, which is both durable and weather-resistant, so perfect for any climate you go. It uses zoom zippers that slide smoothly and add a little more security.
The only thing you can really say about this bag is that it is extremely functional. In addition to the generous 35 liter capacity, it expands to 42 liters with the pull of a zip. But if you’re anything like me and like lots of pockets and cases, then you’ll love this camera pack as there’s a place for everything.
The 55.9 x 34.3 x 22.9 cm dimensions are also perfectly designed as they will fit comfortably in most airline cabins, even economy. However, it weighs 5.75 pounds when empty, so if you plan to take it when you travel, just double-check that you’re not exceeding any weight limits.
Features – GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L
With this bag, space is the main feature and there is plenty of it. The bag is divided into two main compartments which are divided into sections. One side is ideal for clothing, with two large zipped pockets on one side and then four expandable pockets on the other. There are also handy straps that can help you compact your luggage, meaning you’ll fit a lot more than you first thought. I easily packed enough for a weekend away and I think if you’re a really smart packer then you could definitely get clothes for a week or more.
The other compartment is dedicated to your camera kit. It is separated by dividers that can be moved thanks to the velcro design. And there’s a zipper on the side that provides quick and easy side access to your kit, so you don’t have to open the entire bag to get your items out.
As well as more zipped pockets on the outside of the bag, there’s also a handy zipped laptop sleeve that fits devices up to 16″, perfect for anyone who likes to edit their photos on the go.
There’s also a side pocket that’s handy for your tripod or water bottle. It is magnetized so when not in use it sits flush with the side of the bag.
When it comes to carrying the bag, there are shoulder straps and four strong handles located on both sides and at each end of the bag. This makes a difference when you need to carry your bag but can’t wear the shoulder straps. They also make it easy to store the bag when you travel.
However, one of my favorite features is actually quite hard to find – which, believe me, is a good thing. This bag has a handy pocket for your passport, credit cards or other important items. You’ll find it resting on the front pocket and secured with a magnet.
While its size is a huge selling point for this bag, it’s also a potential downside. While the 35-liter capacity is great for those who want to carry a lot of gear, it may be too much for those who want a more compact and portable backpack. However, the backpack includes compression straps that can help reduce its size when not fully loaded.
Comfort – GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L
This is a really comfortable bag to use which surprised me as it is so big I thought it would weigh me down. But even when it was full of clothes and camera gear, it didn’t feel too heavy or cumbersome. The shoulder straps are wide and padded so they are super comfortable and can be adjusted so there is no pulling which is easy on your back and neck.
There is a waist strap, but if you don’t plan on hiking then you probably won’t use it that much. But the good news is that it attaches with velcro so you can just pull it up and store it when you’re not using it.
Price – GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L
The GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack is a premium backpack that comes with a premium price tag of $399/£399. While it’s definitely worth the investment for professional photographers and videographers, it can be too expensive for hobbyists or beginners.
That said, it does the job of two bags because you can easily pack enough clothes for a week away, plus all your photo or video gear meaning you don’t need to buy a separate suitcase when you travel.
There are also a number of accessories you can use with this back, including packing cubes which retail for $19.99 / £19.99 and the navigator tech organizer which will set you back $64.99 / £64.99 and it has plenty of pockets for accessories, toiletries, chargers and travel documents.
Should you buy the GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L?
The GoMatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L is an excellent camera backpack that offers a perfect combination of functionality, versatility and style. Its spacious interior, customizable layout and innovative features make it a great choice for anyone who needs to carry a lot of camera gear. While it may be a bit pricey for some, the high-quality materials and attention to detail make it a worthwhile investment for those serious about photography or videography.
Read more: