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Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30 Photo Backpack (Army Green)

BH #SHEV230BPG • MFR #520-155
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Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30 Photo Backpack (Army Green)
Key Features
  • All-in-One Adventure & Photo Pack
  • Multiple Access Points for Versatility
  • Multiple Pockets and Laptop Sleeve
  • Pocket for 3L Hydration Pack
The army green Explore v2 30 Photo Backpack from Shimoda Designs is the mid-size model in their flagship line of camera backpacks.
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Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30 Overview

The army green Explore v2 30 Photo Backpack from Shimoda Designs is the mid-size model in their flagship line of camera backpacks.

This versatile, multiuse bag can accommodate the combined requirements of the on-the-go photographer, multimedia creator, hiker, or adventure world traveler. To enhance your ability to organize the bag's contents, optional Core Units are available to store camera, video, audio, and digital media equipment, and are installed in the pack to create a customized carrying solution that can be reconfigured as needed. Beyond the functionality features of the bag, Shimoda redesigned the harness system to be highly customizable for any user—and included the ability to change the backpack straps with optional ones for an even more customized and comfortable fit.

What It Holds
  • Updated design for the unique needs of travel or landscape photographers
  • Versatile, multiuse backpack can accommodate the combined interests of the on-the-go photographer, multimedia creator, hiker, or adventure traveler
  • Dual-access document pocket provides interior and exterior access to the pocket for when you need maps, notebooks, etc
  • Hidden and secure interior pocket is ideal for passports and other important documents
  • Pockets on both exterior sides of the pack can be used to hold a water bottle, tripod, or other outdoor equipment
  • Each shoulder strap has a fast access pocket for commonly used items and the left side has an expandable sleeve that securely accommodates snacks, water bottles, sunscreen, and two-way radios while the right side features a zippered phone pocket
  • Padded sleeve in the rear pocket holds a 16" laptop
  • Multiple webbing strips to attach lavalier mics or products like the RODE Wireless Go
  • Secure numerous tripods, skis, ice axes, or a snowboard using the 12 exterior attachment points
  • Large front panel pocket is ideal for oversized items like a jacket, laptop in a padded case, or avalanche safety equipment
  • Two quick-access sleeves hold square and round filters up to 100mm
  • Hydration bladder sleeve is 3L and located in the front panel. It has a hanger loop and dedicated routing to run the hose through the exterior rear panel and onto the shoulder straps
  • Optional Shimoda Designs Core Units can be installed within the pack and reconfigured to fit your needs - whether you need to camera, video, audio, or digital media equipment
How It's Made
  • Side opening is ideal for quick, under-the-arm access without completely removing the pack, and the anti-theft rear opening allows wide, unobstructed access to the bulk of your gear for less time-sensitive shooting situations
  • Lightweight and wear-resistant ripstop nylon shell is treated with a highly water- and wear-resistant Carbonate Ether polyurethane coating
  • Lockable water-resistant splashguard YKK zippers increase security and protection for your valuable gear
  • Free-standing padded base features a lightly padded panel for protection when placing the pack down and allows the pack to stand on its own
  • Base panel features two ventilation holes to limit any potential condensation buildup inside the base area
  • Lightweight rain cover provides an extra layer of protection in wet conditions and stows in its own pouch for easy storage
How you Carry & Wear It
  • Convenient side handle allows you to carry it like a conventional bag for easier handling at checkpoints and on planes or can be used as a luggage handle trolley strap
  • Handles on the top and base make picking the pack up easier and safer
  • Can be carried using the built-in handle along its top or by its padded shoulder straps which can be adjusted upward or downward for a better fit
  • Removable EVA foam padded waist belt transfers weight to the hips for additional comfort with mesh sleeve to quickly stash trash and a gear loop for carabineers, ice axes, and even small tripods
  • Adjustable sternum strap limits unintentional shifting around the wearer
Improved Aired-Out Harness System
  • The "Aired-Out" system allows air to flow through the perforated mesh and EVA foam cushioning makes the harness feel comfortable and cool on your torso
  • Weight-distributing shoulder strap shape and fit help support the load—instead of the weight pulling backwards, like most common camera backpack harnesses, the straps distribute weight across the chest area
  • Fully customizable for the perfect fit, no matter your size
  • Swappable shoulder straps allow you to install optional Shimoda straps for a better and more comfortable fit
  • Three torso height options with approximately 3" (7.5 cm) of vertical adjustment allows the same backpack to fit short or tall torso lengths, ensuring a custom fit for everyone
UPC: 816779023023

Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30 Specs

Key Specs
Color
Green
Carry/Transport Options
Backpack Straps with Sternum Strap, Handle, Trolley Sleeve, Waist Belt
Type of Closure
Zipper
Laptop/Tablet Compatibility
Single Compartment: Fits 16" Laptop
•Up to 15 x 10 x 0.8" / 38 x 25.5 x 2 cm
Water Resistance
Water Resistant (Material), Rain Cover Included
Dimensions
20.3 x 20.3 x 6.7" / 51.5 x 29.5 x 17 cm
Weight
3.6 lb / 1.65 kg
Color
Green
Camera Compatibility
Universal
Carry/Transport Options
Backpack Straps with Sternum Strap, Handle, Trolley Sleeve, Waist Belt
Type of Closure
Zipper
Laptop/Tablet Compatibility
Single Compartment: Fits 16" Laptop
•Up to 15 x 10 x 0.8" / 38 x 25.5 x 2 cm
Features
Bottle Pocket
Yes
Hydration Bladder Compatible
No
RFID-Blocking Pockets
No
Stand/Tripod Holder
Yes
Side Access
Yes
General
Water Resistance
Water Resistant (Material), Rain Cover Included
Padded Interior
No
Materials
Exterior: Nylon
Dimensions
Exterior
20.3 x 20.3 x 6.7" / 51.5 x 29.5 x 17 cm
Interior
19.9 x 19.9 x 6.3" / 50.5 x 28.5 x 16 cm
Weight
3.6 lb / 1.65 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight
5.5 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
23 x 13.5 x 10.5"

Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30 Reviews

I love it but….

By SONYA
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2025-05-30

Too many straps and zippers not smooth on the bag for me. I do love the packing cube and it contains an aluminum frame. So many of these cubes are flimsy and do not sturdy to support your gear. Also, I love the inside of the bag that it’s not all black inside.

Best bag I've owned so far.

By Christopher
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-10-19

I really like this bag. It fits great and the features are nice.

See any errors on this page?

Will this bag fit the DSLR medium core or only ...

Will this bag fit the DSLR medium core or only the mirrorless medium core? I don’t see the DSLR core listed as an accessory.
Asked by: Tyson
The Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30 Photo Backpack (Army Green) is not compatible with the DSLR medium core; only the mirrorless cores can be used with it. To use the DSLR core, you would need the Shimoda Designs Explore v2 35 Photo Backpack (Army Green), B&H # SHEV235BPG.
Answered by: Kenneth C
Date published: 2025-07-07

Can this bag be configured to hold a Sony 300mm ...

Can this bag be configured to hold a Sony 300mm f2.8 lens, including the hood, along with an alpha 1 body + grip?
Asked by: David
No core unit for the Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30 Photo Backpack (Army Green) (B&H# SHEV230BPG) can accommodate the Sony a1 Mirrorless Camera (B&H# SOA1B) with the Sony VG-C4EM Vertical Grip (B&H# SOVGC4EM) and the Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) (B&H# SO30028GM). While we assume that you could remove the grip from the camera and store it alongside, there is no remedy for the fact that the shared 4.7" (11.94cm) depth of each of the four compatible core units is not sufficient for the lens' maximum diameter of 4.88" (12.4cm).
Answered by: Yoni S
Date published: 2025-07-17

Does the F-stop medium core unit fit (11.5" ...

Does the F-stop medium core unit fit (11.5" width, vs 11.4" for the for Shimoda unit)? I really like the strap connections on the F-stop unit for carry on.
Asked by: Richard
Yes F-stop Medium core unit will fit in Shimoda 30 l Pack. A little tight but works great For removing ICU from packbetter to remove lenses on at least on side of the unit. One more thing it will be very hard to close a upper on ICU because of the frame So you need to keep or deal wit it
Answered by: PIOTR
Date published: 2022-04-05

What is the waist size for the women's V2 25 and ...

What is the waist size for the women's V2 25 and 30?
Asked by: Kim
Shimoda Designs Explore V2 both 25L and 30L Women's Backpacks waist belts expand from approximately 27" to 52".
Answered by: Rachael B
Date published: 2024-09-23

Is the torso length of the women’s backpack differ

Is the torso length of the women’s backpack different from that of the regular pack? Can both be adjusted to the same lengths?
Asked by: Barbara
The Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30 Women's Starter Kit and the regular Explore v2 30 share the same adjustable torso height system, offering 3 height options with approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) of vertical adjustment. Because they use the same internal frame and back panel design, both can be adjusted to the same torso lengths. The Women's Starter Kit comes with specific tech straps that are uniquely shaped to curve away from the chest to eliminate pressure points and are slightly smaller than the stock straps found on the regular pack.
Answered by: Samik G
Date published: 2026-03-12

Is it only the women's shimoda design bags that ...

Is it only the women's shimoda design bags that have the special waist size adjuster?
Asked by: Melora
Yes, the Shimoda Designs women's bags, such as the Shimoda Designs Explore V2 30 Women's Starter Kit (Teal, 30L), are equipped with a waist belt, while the others have chest buckles.
Answered by: Michael S
Date published: 2024-10-01

Hi - does this only open from one side? The other ...

Hi - does this only open from one side? The other side has the sleeves for filters but you cannot access the gear inside?
Asked by: Megan
Yes, the Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30 Backpack Photo Starter Kit can only access the inside of the bag from one side pocket.
Answered by: Ejona G
Date published: 2024-09-23

can I change to a large insert option , or buy the

can I change to a large insert option , or buy the backpack without insert and buy a large insert?
Asked by: Han
The Shimoda Designs Core Unit Insert (Large) (BH #SHCULML) is only available for purchase as a separate item. The Shimoda Designs Explore V2 30 Women's Starter Kit (Teal, 30L) is only available with the Shimoda Designs Medium Mirrorless Core Unit Version 2 (Parisian Nights).
Answered by: Marvin H
Date published: 2026-04-15
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