The Review Smiths
Think Tank Backlight 18L Think Tank Backlight 18L
5
Think Tank Backlight 18L 5

If you’re a serious photographer out in the field, you need a strong and reliable way to transport your gear. The Think Tank Backlight 18L is a camera bag that effortlessly incorporates all the features needed to keep your equipment safe and close to hand. It’s compact, practical, and built with real-world use in mind.

With an 18-litre capacity, it’s not too bulky but offers just enough room for a solid selection of gear. You can comfortably fit two standard-sized camera bodies with lenses attached, along with one to three standard zoom lenses. The maximum lens size it can accommodate is a 300mm f/2.8 or a 150–600mm f/5–6.3 attached to a body. It also fits up to a 13” laptop and a 10” tablet, with space in the 5L front compartments for personal items, plus two to three additional lenses or even a small drone setup.

The rear-panel access to the main compartment makes it easy to grab your camera quickly. You can swing the bag around to the front, unzip the back panel, and reach your gear without ever setting it down – a real lifesaver when you’re faced with the perfect shot in muddy or rocky terrain.

Comfort-wise, it’s a winner. The contoured shoulder straps, adjustable sternum strap, and removable padded waist belt distribute the weight evenly, even on longer treks. The breathable back panel also helps when you’re working up a sweat.
Build quality is top-notch, as you’d expect from Think Tank. The exterior is made of high-density nylon with a durable water-repellent coating, and a seam-sealed rain cover is included – always appreciated in the UK. There are plenty of external attachment points, stretchy side pockets for water bottles or tripods, and even a handy organiser pocket at the front for batteries, memory cards, or snacks.

All in all, the Backlight 18L is a fantastic daypack for photographers who need a balance of access, comfort, and protection. It’s compact enough for daily use, but tough enough for the outdoors – a proper all-rounder that punches well above its weight. RRP $249.75

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Compact, rugged, and cleverly designed, the Backlight 18L is perfect for photographers who shoot and travel regularly.
  • Rear-panel access
  • Compact yet spacious
  • Laptop/tablet sleeve
  • Comfortable and breathable
  • High build quality
  • Rain cover included
  • Well-organised, protective layout
  • Tripod/water bottle pockets and external attachment loops
  • Meets most international and US carry-on requirements
  • On the pricier side for a bag of this size, though the quality justifies it