Shimoda Explorer V2 30L Backpack Review

The Shimoda Explorer V2 30L backpack is a high-quality camera bag designed for professional photographers who need a versatile, durable, and comfortable backpack for their travels.

With its mid-size capacity, the Explorer V2 30L is aimed at photographers who want to explore demanding locations while also having the ability to travel globally. The backpack is packed with features that make it perfect for travel, including its size that meets strict EU and Asian carry-on regulations and its numerous travel smart features, such as lockable zippers and a hidden passport pocket.

One of the key features of the Shimoda Explorer V2 30L backpack is its modular design. This allows you to customize the interior compartments to suit your specific needs, making it easy to organize and access your camera gear while on the go.

Additionally, Shimoda is known for their comfortable strap system, which includes a padded and ventilated back panel and shoulder straps that help to reduce fatigue and discomfort during long shoots or hikes. The company is also one of the few that

Overall, the Shimoda Explorer V2 30L backpack is a top-of-the-line camera bag ideal for photographers who demand the best versatility, durability, and comfort regarding their travel gear.

The Shimoda Explorer V2 30L backpack is a high-performance camera bag designed with enthusiasts and professional photographers in mind. The choice of external and internal materials along with the backpack’s dimensions make it ideal for travel photographers, or those on their travels, who need a durable and sturdy bag. There’s even a supportive internal frame that adds extra rigidity to the bag, ensuring it can withstand more than most bags.

The backpack can accommodate a range of camera gear thanks to its modular design and ample storage space, which you can easily be fine-tuned to meet your needs.

An interesting feature of the Shimoda Explorer V2 30L is that when you order the pack, you can choose different options including the the starter kit, which supplies you with everything you need and is the option I’ve looked at in this test. If you’re familiar with the Shimoda bags, then you may want to explore alternative options by selecting what internals you want for the pack. Alternatively, start with the starter kit and then buy different modules as your needs for the bag change or you change kit.

Another nice feature when you order the bag is the option of three different straps designed for women. More details of those are available on the website.

What always makes the Shimoda backpacks stand out is the comfort. Even with the bag well loaded, the carry weight is evenly distributed, and excellent support is offered by the shoulder and waist straps, even for extended periods. Additionally, the rear access to the main compartment makes it easy to access your gear, although you do have to remove the backpack.

While, for the most part, the Shimoda Explorer V2 30L backpack does the job, and there’s no doubt that this is one of the most comfortable backpacks out there, there are a few minor issues. One issue is the laptop slot is designed for mid-sized laptops up to 15 inches or tablets, which means that a 16-inch MacBook may not fit if it’s fitted with a protective case, at least not without a lot of wiggling and then it gets caught.

Additionally, the modular design means that loose items in the top section can fall into the main section, which can be frustrating when trying to access your gear.

Overall, the Shimoda Explorer V2 30L backpack is an excellent choice for photographers who need a high-quality camera bag for their travels. While some design elements could be improved, such as the laptop slot and the ability to block off the top section, the backpack’s overall performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious photographers.

With a 5-year warranty, you can be confident that the backpack will last for years.

Overall, the Shimoda Explorer V2 30L backpack is an excellent camera bag designed with professional photographers’ needs in mind. Its versatile and durable design makes it a great choice for those who need to carry a lot of gear while travelling. Its modular interior design allows for customized organization.

The backpack is built to withstand the elements and the wear and tear of frequent use, with rugged and weather-resistant materials, reinforced stress points, and a water-resistant coating. Additionally, the backpack’s ergonomics are well thought-out, with padded and ventilated shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a comfortable back panel that help to reduce fatigue and discomfort during long shoots or hikes.

Mirrorless and compact DSLR camera users will find the 30 litre size ideal, though the laptop slot may not be suitable for larger laptops if they’re in a case. While the modular design can be useful, loose items in the top section can fall into the main section, which can be frustrating.

Overall, the Shimoda Explorer V2 30L backpack is a great choice for professional photographers who demand versatility, durability, and comfort in their travel gear. If you need a rugged and reliable camera bag that can keep up with your adventures, the Shimoda Explorer V2 30L is worth considering.