DAS 55 LITER DOPAMINE TRAVEL SYSTEM

I just got back from a backpacking trip around Thailand and The Dopamine Travel System was one of the best purchases I made before going.

The 2-in-1 modular design is a game changer. Having a main backpack for all my clothes and travel gear, plus a detachable 20L daypack, made everything so much easier. When I was moving between places, it functioned like a full travel pack. But for day trips, island hopping, and exploring cities, I could just take the smaller backpack without dragging everything with me.

What really stood out for me was how well it works for camera gear. I was able to fit my camera, 3–4 lenses, my drone, and all the accessories I needed without it feeling bulky or unorganized. Using it with a camera cube made everything super accessible and protected, which gave me peace of mind while traveling.

It’s rare to find something that balances travel convenience and photography so well, but this nails both. It made the whole trip smoother, more flexible, and way more enjoyable.

If you’re traveling with camera gear or just want a super versatile backpack setup, I’d 100% recommend the Dopamine Travel System.

I’ve taken this setup on a few trips now and it’s honestly the best travel bag system I’ve owned. The build quality feels premium, the recycled materials are a nice bonus, and the modular design is incredibly practical. The 35L bag fits enough clothes for long trips (honestly I could travel full time with no issues) and the 20L daypack is perfect for shooting days, storing all my camera stuff.

It’s comfortable to wear even when the bags are connected and fully packed , the organisation is smart, and all the little features, on either bag, like the hidden pocket, roll top expansion, and smooth zippers make travel so much easier.

If you want one bag system that does everything well, this is it. Highly recommend.

After years of struggling to find a backpack I could use for travel as a photographer, I have now found the solution! Having a backpack that can hold my clothes and photography gear in one bag is great. Then also having the ability to detach a smaller bag with so much functionality for my day trips. Awesome! Bags are really high quality and all the pockets and other features are really well thought out.

Things I Struggled With
⦁ G-hooks – They’re super secure, which I appreciate, but man they’re a pain to undo quickly. If I’m in a rush, I definitely find myself muttering under my breath trying to unclip them.
⦁ 20L front pocket – It’s big, which is nice in theory, but I don’t really know what to put in there because stuff just disappears into the space. I know it’s a trend with camera bags lately, but personally, I’d rather have a few smaller easy-access pockets.
⦁ Quick access – The 20L isn’t the fastest bag when you need to grab something small like filters. You pretty much have to take the whole bag off, put it down, unzip, grab the thing, then put it all back on. Not a dealbreaker, but I’m used to sling-style bags where everything is instantly at hand.
⦁ Weight – The 20L feels a little heavier than I expected. Not too bad, but I’ll have a clearer opinion once I’ve taken it on a proper road trip.
⦁ Straps – On the 20L, the straps sit quite far apart, so when I’m in a t-shirt they rub against my arms. They could also use a bit more padding.
⦁ Laptop sleeve velcro – It doesn’t feel super secure. It’s fine (and at least it’s there considering most bags don’t have anything), but I always double-check it just in case.

Neutral Observations
⦁ Camera Opening: It could be a little bigger, but I also appreciate the compact size… it’s a trade-off (so far i like it).
⦁ AirTag/Samsung Tag spot – Would love to see a hidden little pocket for one of those in the cube and the bag.

The Good Stuff
⦁ The 55L – It’s fantastic. Tons of access points and smart pocket layouts. It really reminds me of my current hiking backpack (not good for carrying photography stuff so I’m pleased to have found a replacement), but with extra travel and photography features.
⦁ The look – Both bags look great. Clean, stylish, and I’ve already had people ask me about them and complimenting them so yay!
⦁ Small touches – The strap on the 20L, the rollable pocket, and the detachable hip/chest straps are all things I’ve used more than I thought I would. The detachable hip belt on the 20L is such a nice touch because I can go on hikes without changing my bags
⦁ Customization – Being able to move straps and use all the attachment points makes it feel like a bag I can actually set up my way and that is just a must
⦁ Recycled materials – Always a plus.
⦁ Travel-friendly – Both bags are carry-on sized, which is perfect. Can’t wait to test that against Ryanair…….
⦁ Durability – Both bags feel tough. Even the 20L swallows more gear than it looks like it should.
⦁ Overall feel – At the end of the day, they just feel good. Practical without looking too “gear-head,” (which is a must to not attract thieves) durable without being stiff, and definitely versatile.

Final Thoughts
All in all, I’m really happy with the system. The 55L is great for travel, the 20L is just great but could use a couple tweaks for faster access and comfort. Nothing here is a dealbreaker for me, though, and I honestly enjoy using them. I’ll keep these bags for a long time they feel, look and act like very good investment. I’m looking forward to seeing how they hold up on longer trips—and to whatever designs come next.

As a freelance filmmaker who’s constantly bouncing between airports, mountain trails, and city shoots, I’ve gone through my fair share of travel backpacks. This one absolutely nails it.

The modular design is genius. I can keep my camera gear in the padded cube (fits my Sony FX3, 3 lenses, drone, and batteries perfectly), and still have enough room for clothes and travel essentials for a 2 week trip.

The 55L modular sizing is spot on and I was able to carry on both bags onto a plane with no problem. Build quality is excellent too. Zippers are super strong, the materials feel premium, and it’s actually comfortable to wear, even fully loaded.

One of my favorite features? The side access and rolltop on the 20 litre bag. I can quickly grab my camera or a lens without having to dig through everything or lay the bag flat. Massive time saver during fast-paced shoots.

If you’re a photographer or filmmaker who travels often and needs something reliable, flexible, and smartly designed—this is it. You can tell it was made by someone who actually understands what creators need on the road.