Wandrd Backpack Review: My Everyday Carry as a San Francisco Photographer
When you’re a photographer in San Francisco, you don’t just need a backpack. You need a sidekick. Something that can survive the fog rolling over Twin Peaks, the random drizzle at Ocean Beach, and those long hauls across Golden Gate Park with a camera in one hand and a latte in the other. Enter: the Wandrd backpack — my go-to carry for shoots, city exploring, and editing days on the grass at Dolores Park.
First Impressions: Built for Adventure
The first thing you notice is how solid this bag feels. Wandrd clearly didn’t cut corners. The zippers, the straps, the compartments — everything feels intentional. And if you’re like me (aka always on the move with camera gear, hard drives, and snacks), you’ll appreciate the modular design that lets you customize it for every shoot.
Plus, the look? Sleek enough to blend in at a Mission café, but rugged enough to throw in the back of an Waymo on the way to a job in SoMa.
Why It Works for a Bay Area Photographer
Weatherproofing: SF weather is moodier than a foggy sunrise. I need gear that can handle drizzle at Sutro Baths and sunshine in the Marina — sometimes within the same hour. Wandrd delivers.
Comfort: Long walks up San Francisco hills aren’t exactly fun with a heavy load, but this pack distributes weight evenly. My shoulders say thank you.
Organization: I’m carrying my Sony A7C, a 50mm, sometimes my 16-35mm, plus extra batteries, SSDs, and even Monty’s treats (because yes, my pup comes everywhere). This bag makes it all fit without feeling like I’m playing Tetris.
Editing on the Go: Dolores Park Edition
One of my favorite test drives? A sunny afternoon editing in Dolores Park. I laid out my blanket, pulled my MacBook from the Wandrd’s laptop sleeve (covered in stickers, of course), and got to work. With my SanDisk SSD tucked in and plenty of room for coffee, I felt like I was working from the best open-air office in the city.
The Not-So-Perfect Side
Okay, let’s keep it real. The bag is a little pricey. It’s an investment. But if you’re serious about photography (or just want your gear to survive SF life), it’s worth it. I’d rather buy one bag that lasts years than five that barely make it through a couple of shoots.
Final Thoughts: Worth the Hype?
For me, yes. The Wandrd backpack checks every box: durability, style, and functionality. It’s the type of bag that keeps up with you whether you’re shooting a wedding in North Beach, hiking up to Hawk Hill for sunset, or just editing with friends at a Hayes Valley café.
If you’re a photographer — especially one navigating the unpredictable, magical chaos of San Francisco — the Wandrd is a backpack that feels like it was made for us.
Want to See It in Action?
I’ve already been putting the Wandrd through its paces here in SF. Check out my portfolio for real-life shots and behind-the-scenes moments. And if you’re a local creative looking for a photographer who actually gets the struggle of hauling gear up and down the Bay hills — let’s connect.
📸✨ Because the right bag doesn’t just carry your gear. It carries your story.