Have you ever been standing in a beautiful field, ready to paint, and realized your gear is a total mess? Finding the perfect spot to paint is exciting. But carrying all your paints, brushes, and canvas can be a real struggle. It’s like a puzzle trying to fit everything you need into one bag!
Choosing the right backpack for plein air painting is super important. You don’t want a bag that’s too small, too heavy, or uncomfortable to carry. A bad backpack can ruin your painting day. It can make your back ache and make you less excited to paint. Imagine the frustration of missing out on a perfect painting moment because of your bag!
In this post, we’ll explore the best backpacks for plein air painting. You’ll learn what to look for, what to avoid, and how to choose the perfect bag for your needs. We’ll cover size, comfort, and features. By the end, you’ll be ready to hit the trails and paint with ease! Let’s dive into the world of plein air backpacks and find the perfect one for you!
Our Top 5 Backpack For Plein Air Painting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Backpack For Plein Air Painting Detailed Reviews
1. JJRING Heavy Duty Plein Air Artist Backpack with Handheld Strap
Rating: 9.1/10
The JJRING Heavy Duty Plein Air Artist Backpack is a great bag for artists! It is made to carry all your art supplies. This brown bag holds large canvases, sketchpads, and drawing boards. You can carry it as a backpack or a tote bag. It is perfect for artists who love to paint outside.
What We Like:
- The main compartment is big! It can hold 18×24 artwork.
- It has many pockets. You can store pens, pencils, and easels.
- You can carry it two ways. Use the shoulder straps or the handle.
- It is made of strong canvas and has a water-resistant lining.
- It has a small mesh pocket on the shoulder strap for your phone.
What Could Be Improved:
- We don’t have any cons to list yet!
This JJRING backpack is perfect for artists. It is a useful and versatile art bag for all your plein air painting needs.
2. En Plein Air Pro 60L Artist Backpack
Rating: 9.2/10
The En Plein Air Pro 60L Artist Backpack is a must-have for artists who love painting outdoors. This backpack is made to carry all your art supplies comfortably. It’s built tough, so it can handle the rigors of travel. The spacious design easily fits a complete easel setup, including a palette, panel holder, and tripod, with extra room for other essentials. It is a perfect solution for artists who want to explore the world of painting “en plein air”.
What We Like:
- The large 60L capacity means you can carry everything you need. The backpack measures 26″ long, 12.20″ wide, and 10.63″ high.
- The padded shoulder straps are adjustable. You can zip them into the back for easy transport.
- The main compartment holds your easel setup. You can also fit a wet panel box!
- The backpack is made from high-strength 600D fabric. This makes it tough and durable.
- Two front zippered pockets give you extra storage. You can store paints, brushes, sketchbooks, and more!
What Could Be Improved:
- Some artists might want more interior organization options.
- The backpack’s weight could be a factor when fully loaded.
In conclusion, the En Plein Air Pro 60L Artist Backpack is a great option for artists. It provides ample space and durability for your outdoor painting adventures.
3. PLEINLY Portable Watercolor Easel Set + BP-70 Backpack. Plein Air Painting & Drawing Easel with Wet Panel Carrier
Rating: 8.7/10
The PLEINLY Portable Watercolor Easel Set is a complete kit for artists who love painting outdoors! It includes everything you need for plein air painting. This set has a wet panel carrier, tripod, stool, and a big backpack to carry all your gear. You also get a sketchbook, backing board, clips, and two palettes. It’s designed to make painting outside easy and fun.
What We Like:
- The set is very portable. You can easily carry it everywhere.
- The easel board adjusts to different angles. You can paint standing or sitting.
- The wet panel carrier keeps your paintings safe while they dry.
- The included tripod is strong and can also hold cameras and phones.
- The set comes with a comfy stool.
- The backpack has a lot of space for all your supplies.
- The sketchbook has great paper for watercolor.
What Could Be Improved:
- No cons mentioned in the provided text.
This PLEINLY set is perfect for artists of all levels. It’s a great way to enjoy painting outdoors with everything you need in one convenient package!
4. New Wave u.go Plein Air
Rating: 8.5/10
The New Wave u.go Anywhere Pochade Box is a portable painting studio. It’s perfect for artists who love to paint outdoors. This compact easel is made for convenience and durability. It’s designed to be easy to carry and set up quickly. This pochade box is great for artists of all levels.
What We Like:
- Made with strong Baltic Birch wood and stainless steel.
- The wood finish is water and solvent resistant. It won’t crack or chip.
- Uses magnets for easy closing and holding panels.
- Works with tripods.
- Comes with a plastic palette.
- Lightweight and easy to store.
- Made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- Maximum painting surface is 9″ vertical, which could be limiting for some artists.
The New Wave u.go Anywhere Pochade Box is a great choice for artists. It’s a durable and portable easel for painting on the go.
5. Sienna Plein Air Wet Panel Carrier Box I Lightweight Wet Painting Carrier for Travel
Rating: 8.8/10
The Sienna Plein Air Wet Panel Carrier Box is a must-have for any artist who loves painting outdoors! This clever box safely carries your wet paintings. It’s perfect for artists who use watercolor, oil, acrylic, or pastel. It keeps your artwork safe while you travel to your favorite painting spots, classes, or workshops. It’s a thoughtful gift for any artist.
What We Like:
- It’s versatile! The box holds both 9 x 12 inch and 8 x 10 inch paintings.
- It’s small and light. The box fits easily into your backpack.
- It keeps your paintings safe. The spring-loaded clasps keep the carrier closed.
- It works well with other art supplies. It pairs well with easels and pochade boxes.
- It can carry four panels at once.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only fits panels up to 1/8″ thick.
This wet panel carrier is a smart choice for artists on the go. It is a great way to protect your paintings while traveling.
Backpack for Plein Air Painting: Your Guide to the Great Outdoors
Are you ready to paint outside? A good backpack is super important for plein air painting. This guide helps you choose the best one. We’ll cover what to look for and how to find a great backpack.
Key Features to Look For
You need a backpack that carries all your art supplies. Here are the key features:
- Size and Capacity: Get a backpack big enough for your easel, paints, brushes, and water. Make sure it’s not too big! You don’t want to carry extra weight.
- Easel Storage: Look for a backpack with special straps or pockets for your easel. This is a must-have feature.
- Water Bottle Holder: Staying hydrated is key! A side pocket for your water bottle is very handy.
- Compartments and Pockets: These help keep your supplies organized. You’ll need places for paint tubes, brushes, and other small items.
- Comfort: Look for padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. They help carry the weight comfortably. A chest strap is also a good feature.
- Weather Resistance: Choose a backpack that can handle rain or sun. Some are water-resistant or even waterproof.
- Durability: The backpack should be strong. It needs to hold up to outdoor use.
Important Materials
The materials used make a big difference in quality. Here’s what to look for:
- Nylon: Nylon is a strong, water-resistant fabric. It’s a good choice for backpacks.
- Polyester: Polyester is another good option. It’s also water-resistant and durable.
- Reinforced Stitching: Look for strong stitching. It makes the backpack last longer.
- Zippers: Make sure the zippers are strong and smooth. They should open and close easily.
- Buckles: Buckles need to be sturdy. They keep your gear secure.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect how good a backpack is:
- Quality of Materials: Better materials mean a better backpack. This includes the fabric, zippers, and straps.
- Construction: Well-made backpacks last longer. Check the stitching and how the parts are put together.
- Weight Capacity: The backpack should handle the weight of your supplies. Check the weight limit before you buy.
- Comfort: The design and padding impact comfort. Try it on, if possible, to see if it feels good.
- Price: Sometimes, a higher price means better quality. But, you can also find good backpacks that are affordable.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making great backpacks. Do some research.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the backpack.
- Easy Access: You want to get to your supplies quickly. Look for easy-to-reach pockets.
- Stability: The backpack should stay stable when you’re walking. Test it out to see if it shifts around.
- Adjustability: Make sure the straps adjust. This helps you find the most comfortable fit.
- Use Cases: Imagine yourself painting outdoors. Will the backpack fit in the car? Can you carry it a long distance?
- Cleaning: Choose a backpack that’s easy to clean. Mud and paint can get on it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size backpack do I need?
A: It depends on your gear. Measure your easel and other supplies. Then, pick a backpack with enough space.
Q: Is a water-resistant backpack good enough?
A: Yes, water-resistant is usually fine. Unless you paint in very rainy areas. Then, a waterproof one is best.
Q: What if I don’t have a specific plein air easel?
A: Some backpacks have special pockets or straps for various types of easels. Look for one that fits your needs.
Q: How important is a hip belt?
A: A hip belt helps distribute the weight. It makes the backpack more comfortable to carry for long periods.
Q: What about a chest strap?
A: A chest strap helps keep the shoulder straps in place. This helps with balance and comfort.
Q: What should I do if the backpack gets dirty?
A: Check the care instructions. Most backpacks can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Q: Can I use a regular backpack?
A: You can, but a backpack designed for plein air painting is better. They are made for your gear.
Q: Where can I buy a plein air painting backpack?
A: You can find them online, at art supply stores, and sometimes at outdoor retailers.
Q: How much should I spend?
A: Prices vary. You can find good backpacks for under $100. More features usually cost more.
Q: Should I read reviews before I buy?
A: Yes! Reviews from other artists help you choose a good backpack.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.