Quick answer
The Think Tank Photo BackStory 15 fits a 16" laptop, a 10" tablet, and a complete camera kit with lenses, plus a deep front compartment for personal travel items.
Why the rear-panel opening matters for packing
The BackStory 15's rear-panel opening accesses the main camera compartment from the back, so you don't have to set the bag down on the street or risk dumping gear. This design is especially helpful when you're in crowded spaces or need to quickly grab a body and lens without opening the front.
The trade-off is that you must fully open the bag against your body, which takes slightly longer than a side-access system. If you change lenses frequently while walking, you may prefer a front-opening or top-loading bag.
Top panel for camera workflow speed
A top panel gives direct access to your camera without opening the main compartment. This speeds up your workflow when you need to capture a moment quickly. The top access is ideal for a mirrorless body with a small lens attached, but it won't accommodate a gripped DSLR or long telephoto zoom.
Front compartment for personal and professional essentials
The deep front compartment with zippered mesh pockets handles personal items such as power banks, cables, snacks, or a tablet. It also fits a 10" tablet and a 16" laptop in separate sleeves. Keep in mind that if you pack the front compartment fully, the bag becomes heavier and may affect balance when wearing the waist belt.
Decision rules for packing the BackStory 15
- Pack your camera body with a mid-range zoom: Place the camera body with a 24-70mm or similar zoom in the top-access panel or rear compartment's center section. Use the dividers to keep it secure. Test that the camera is snug; add a lens wrap if it shifts.
- Carry up to four additional lenses: Arrange lenses along the sides of the rear compartment, separated by the included dividers. A 70-200mm f/2.8 fits lengthwise.
- Use the front compartment for a 16" laptop and tablet: Slide the laptop into the padded sleeve and the tablet into the tablet pocket. Store smaller accessories in the zippered mesh pockets. Heavy chargers go in a mesh pocket to keep them from sliding onto the laptop.
- Wear the waist belt for heavy loads: Clip the removable waist belt around your hips to transfer weight from your shoulders. This makes all-day wear more comfortable.
- Balance the bag to avoid tipping: Place heavier items (camera body, telephoto lens) closest to your back. Keep the front compartment weight light to prevent the bag from leaning forward. Check balance after packing; adjust dividers or move heavy accessories to the back.
Product facts
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Think Tank Photo BackStory 15: The BackStory 15 rear-panel opening offers complete access to your gear while a top panel provides quick access to your camera and speeds your workflow. You can pack and retrieve gear securely in tight or crowded spaces, and grab your camera fast without fully opening the bag.
Think Tank Photo BackStory 15
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Think Tank Photo BackStory 15: A deep front compartment with zippered mesh pockets has ample room for personal gear, including a 10” tablet and 16" laptop. You can carry a full day's travel essentials alongside your photo gear, reducing the need for a second bag.
Is the BackStory 15 right for you?
Best for
- Photographers who want secure, theft-deterrent access via the rear panel in crowded city travel
- All-day walkers who need a comfortable harness plus a waist belt for heavy camera and laptop loads
Not for
- Shooters who frequently swap lenses by the side of a trail or in a rush, due to the rear-zip access
- Those who need a dedicated drone or non-camera gear pocket in the main compartment
