After a brief break from YouTube, I found myself back in the creative space—and like many creators, I ended up in the Peter McKinnon algorithm. His passion for filmmaking and photography not only inspired me to make more content, but also helped me get comfortable in front of the camera. Along the way, it sparked a new appreciation for the gear that makes creating easier.
One of the brands Peter introduced me to was Nomatic, known for durable, feature-packed travel bags. Five years after first seeing his collaboration launch, I’m now using a Nomatic backpack daily. In this post, I’ll be reviewing two pieces of gear from that line: the McKinnon 35L Camera Backpack and the McKinnon 8L Camera Sling. Together, they make one of the most versatile travel camera setups available.
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Nomatic sent these items for review with no input on the contents of this post.
Why Nomatic x Peter McKinnon?
Nomatic is already known for their smart travel bags, but teaming up with Peter McKinnon took their gear to another level for creators. Every zipper, divider, and attachment is designed with photography and filmmaking in mind.
For me, these bags represent more than just storage—they’re part of my creative journey. From hiking trails in Texas to filming content on the road, having a bag that’s both rugged and functional lets me focus on storytelling instead of worrying about my gear.
Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L
The McKinnon 35L Backpack is the centerpiece of this setup.
– Capacity: 35 liters, expandable to 42L
– Weight: 5.7 lbs (empty)
– Materials: Water-resistant 900D fabric, Hypalon reinforcements, waterproof zippers
– Laptop sleeve: Fits up to 16-inch devices
– Travel features: RFID-safe pocket, magnetic water bottle/tripod pocket, luggage pass-through
This backpack is big, structured, and built for serious travel. It’s designed with customizable dividers so you can configure the interior for camera gear, clothing, or both. Quick side access makes it easy to grab your camera on the go, while the full back panel gives you the full layout when you need it.
For comfort, the suspension system includes load lifters and removable waist straps. If you’re filling the bag to capacity, I recommend keeping the straps attached for weight distribution.
The main trade-off? At this size, it won’t fit under most airplane seats—you’ll need to use the overhead bin. But for multi-day shoots, international flights, or road trips, it’s hard to beat the balance of organization, durability, and capacity.
At $419 with a lifetime warranty, it’s a premium investment designed to last.
Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling 8L
On the other end of the spectrum is the 8L Camera Sling—perfect for day shoots or lightweight setups.
– Capacity: 8 liters (also available in 5L and 13L sizes)
– Weight: 1.6 lbs
– Access: Wire-frame, one-handed quick-open system + bungee closure
– Organization: Two dividers, mesh pockets for batteries and memory cards
– Carry options: Cross-body, over the shoulder, or sling with stabilizer strap
The sling offers fast, one-handed access, which makes it a favorite for run-and-gun shooting. The bag is compact enough to carry comfortably, but still structured enough to protect your gear.
It’s worth noting that while the sling is designed to nest inside the 35L backpack, I had some difficulty tucking the strap away for a perfect fit. It’s not a dealbreaker, but you may need to fuss with it a bit.
The structured design also makes it less compressible than some other slings—but that rigidity gives you peace of mind that your gear is safe. And if 8 liters isn’t quite right, Nomatic also offers smaller 5L and larger 13L versions. This sling currently retails for $169.99.
Backpack vs. Sling: Which Should You Choose?
If you’re trying to decide between the two, here’s the quick breakdown:
– Choose the 35L Backpack if you need to carry everything: camera kit, laptop, clothing, and accessories for multi-day travel.
– Choose the 8L Sling if you want simplicity and speed: one camera body, a lens or two, and just the essentials for lightweight shooting.
– Or combine them: use the 35L for travel, and pull out the sling once you’re on location. Together, they make a modular setup that covers both big trips and light days.
Final Thoughts
The Nomatic McKinnon Camera Backpack and Sling are premium pieces of gear. They’re not the only options out there, and you don’t need them to be a successful creator. But if you value durable materials, thoughtful design, and a lifetime warranty, these bags should be at the top of your list.
For me, they represent both a practical investment in protecting my gear and a connection to my own creative journey. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just a hobbyist looking for a reliable setup, the Nomatic x Peter McKinnon line delivers.
👉 Check out the McKinnon Camera Pack 35L here
👉 Check out the McKinnon Camera Sling 8L here