Should You Bring a DSLR Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a serious backpacker, you’ve probably asked yourself the question: “Should I bring a DSLR backpacking?”
The answer to this question is not as simple as it seems. There are multiple factors to consider when deciding whether or not to bring a DSLR on your backpacking trip.

First of all, it’s important to know that carrying a DSLR camera adds considerable weight and bulk to your pack. Depending on the type of DSLR camera you have, it can add several pounds of extra weight. This means that if you decide to bring one with you, it will be more difficult to keep track of your other gear and it will take up more space in your pack.

Second, depending on the type of backpacking trip you are taking, there may be limited opportunities for using a DSLR camera. For instance, if you are doing an overnight hike in the wilderness, chances are that there won’t be much time or opportunity for taking photos during the day. On the other hand, if you are planning on doing some sightseeing in cities or on longer treks where there is ample time for taking photos, then bringing a DSLR makes more sense.

Thirdly, it’s important to think about how experienced you are with photography and what kind of photos you want to take. If you are just starting out with photography and don’t have much experience using a camera then it might be better for you to stick with a smaller point-and-shoot camera rather than investing in a bulky and expensive DSLR camera. On the other hand, if you have some experience with photography and want to take higher quality photos then investing in a good quality DSLR could make sense.

Conclusion:

When deciding whether or not to bring a DSLR backpacking there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on what type of backpacking trip you’re taking and how experienced you are with photography. If your trip involves limited opportunities for taking photos or if you don’t have much experience using cameras then sticking with a smaller point-and-shoot might make more sense than investing in an expensive and bulky DSLR camera.