Gear Review: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Camera Pod
Looking for a lightweight camera case that won’t slow you down? Here’s our take on the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Camera Pod—why we’ve carried it for years and still love it.
Ultralight Protection for the Trails
When you’re carrying camera gear into the backcountry, finding a way to keep it both accessible and protected is a serious challenge. That’s where the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Camera Pod comes in—a featherweight, waterproof solution made specifically for hiking and backpacking photographers. I’ve used this pod for years across alpine terrain, from wind-blasted summits to damp forest trails, and it’s earned a permanent spot on my pack.
Why It Stands Out
The Camera Pod is made from Dyneema, which means it’s ridiculously light (just 3.7 oz for the regular) and highly water-resistant. It’s shaped like a little cocoon for your mirrorless or small DSLR camera, and the rigidity of the light foam panels gives just enough structure to keep your gear from getting smashed. The top-loading design makes it easy to access your camera quickly. Something I’ve appreciated when a pika darts out onto the talus or golden light hits fast on a ridge.
It’s available in two sizes: Regular (fits most mirrorless cameras) and Large (for bulkier DSLRs or longer lenses). I use the large size with a 24-70mm lens/mirrorless setup and find it’s the perfect fit. If you hike with your camera clipped to your pack strap or belt, the Camera Pod attaches beautifully with simple shock cord or carabiners. It comes with two small carabiners and a cord. I created my own attachment system and it was simple to do.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick look at what I’ve found after years of use:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultralight and durable | Pricey for a soft case ($129) |
| Excellent protection for a lightweight pod | Padding is quite thin |
| Waterproof Dyneema fabric | Limited internal organization |
| Attaches easily to packs | Anything over a 200-300mm lens will not fit |
| Quick access on trail |
Final Thoughts
For anyone carrying a camera into the wild, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Camera Pod is awesome. It’s not bulky, it keeps your gear safe from the elements, and it doesn’t weigh you down. I’ve trusted mine for literal years of alpine fieldwork and long backpacking trips, and I honestly can’t imagine going without it. Whether you’re thru-hiking with a camera or heading out for a weekend shoot, this little pod gets it done.
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