Best Camera Bags for Travel
This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.
So you’re just bought a new travel camera to capture memories on your next adventure. But how can you keep your camera safe and tote around all the camera gear you need?

You need a camera bag.

Whether you’re a pro or just love taking photos as a hobby, having a suitable camera bag is a convenient way to take your camera gear with you on your travels. From messenger bags to backpacks to bag inserts, we’ll combed through all the options and picked out some of the best camera bags in the market today.
Our Picks for Best Camera Bag 2022
Best Camera Bag: Comparison Table
Here’s a comparison of all the camera bags on our recommended list. Be sure to click “next” to view all of them, and scroll down the article for a deep dive on each bag!
Why You Need a Camera Bag
So you’ve just spent a great chunk of change on an unbeatable camera and now you’re ready to set out and start snapping some gorgeous shots. But wait a second… how are you going to carry your camera?

Around your neck is just fine if you plan on simply strolling around with the body and a single lens. But what if you want to change lenses? How about if your SD card fills up? Want a still shot with a tripod?

This is why having a camera bag is imperative. By conveniently fitting all of your gear into one compact, accessible place, you’re ready for anything while shooting on the go.

Giving you a hands-free experience, camera bags allow you to have a shooting experience filled with everything you need while being free from sagging pockets. You’re able to travel anywhere to shoot without worrying about your camera bumping around.

So traverse into those mountain sides or go for some street photography in a busy city. Your camera bag allows you to carry everything you need for any situation.

Besides convenience, camera bags are designed to keep your expensive equipment safe.

Almost all camera bags come with padded pockets and compartments for storing lenses, flash, miscellaneous gear, and the camera’s body itself. You don’t have to worry about anything getting damaged because each component is packed into its own compartment for safekeeping until it’s ready to be used.

Finally, some camera bags even come with security features. This gives you some peace of mind while transporting your gear. With anti-theft components and hidden compartments, you’re able to travel around without fear of prying hands.

Still not convinced that you need a camera bag?

What if I told you they come in tons of different shapes, styles and sizes? Picking the right bag for you is just as important as having one in the first place, so keep reading to find out all you need to know about camera bags.

Types of Camera Bags
There are more than a handful of camera bag styles, so it’s good to know what your options are before purchasing one. Here are the main types of camera bags you’ll run into.
Shoulder Bags
Shoulder bags are the typical camera bag style.

With a single shoulder strap and flap top, shoulder bags allow you to access your equipment quickly and without hassle. There tends to be a few extra pockets, in addition to the main section of the bag to keep yourself organized. However, this type of bag is mainly just for the essentials.
Messenger Bags
If you like the idea of a shoulder bag but want to carry a little bit more, a messenger bag is a good solution.

Designed similarly, messenger bags also have a single strap (although typically longer), with a flap-style closure, but they’re designed to be a bit taller and slimmer. This allows you to fit not only your camera gear, but additional equipment like a laptop, notebook and anything else you need for a day of shooting.

You can also wear a messenger bag across your body whereas a shoulder bag typically stays on one shoulder.
Sling Bags
Sling bags are small bags in a backpack style, but with a single strap.

They don’t hang off your body the way shoulder or messenger bags do. Instead, they either sit on your back or come around to the front of your body when you need to access what’s inside. Sling bags are a much smaller option and aren’t for all of your gear. However, they’re a good fit for what you need on a standard shoot with a lens or two.
Backpacks
The age-old backpack is designed for allowing for hands-

free travel over any landscape. Camera backpacks are the most practical for large amounts of gear or heavy loads, as well as going farther distances. They’re comfortable to carry, and tend to be rather durable with lots of organization options.

That said, backpacks can be a pain when it comes to finding what you need with haste as you have to take the entire thing off to access what’s inside.
Roller Bags
Not designed for daily use, but rather specifically for travel, roller bags are designed like your typical piece of luggage on wheels, albeit with a hard shell and internal padding to keep your things padded and in place.

Most camera roller bags are small enough to be taken into the cabin with you on a plane. However, it’s smart idea to check the exact dimensions and airline requirements beforehand.
Hard Cases
Hard cases are the best for protecting your camera against impact and tough environments. With the extremely durable shell, hard cases can handle pretty much anything life throws at them while still keeping your gear safe and sound.

This option is rather heavy due to the added protection, so they aren’t practical for going far with. However, it’s worth it if there’s any concern about keeping your gear in top condition.

Pouches & Holsters
Camera pouches or holsters are an easy way to transport just the basics if you don’t want to wear your camera around your neck. They fit a body and a lens comfortably, but anything else is a bit of a stretch.

If you have a smaller camera and don’t want a huge bag for it, a pouch or small-sized holster is a good way to go.
Bag Inserts
While not a bag themselves, inserts are useful for converting a bag you already own into a camera bag. Inserts are the padded walls that create sections in a bag to comfortably fit your gear.

If you already have a travel bag that you can’t bear to part with, inserts will help fit everything safely without having to get something completely new.
How to Pick the Best Camera Bag for You
With so many camera bags available, here are some main considerations to keep in mind when choosing the right camera bag for you.
Size
First, you should determine what size camera bag you want. This will largely be influenced by the type of camera and amount of gear you have to carry with you. Still, some bags are just designed to be larger than others.

If you’re traveling a lot, it’s probably best to opt for a smaller bag that will fit the essentials and can be used day to day. But if you’re a serious photographer who needs some extra equipment or supplies, you’re probably better off with a larger bag.
Weight
Like with most things, the larger the bag, the heavier it will be.

It may not seem like much when considering camera bags that are a few ounces apart in weight, but it will make all the difference when the bag is chock full of camera equipment.

If you’re a frequent air traveler, you know that there are weight restrictions when it comes to carry-on bags. But even beyond that, you don’t want to be lugging around a heavy bag all the time — it’s just not practical or comfortable.

Weight is a serious consideration and with heavy camera equipment, it’s important to keep this factor in mind when choosing the right bag.
Capacity
What kind of camera are you toting around? How much gear do you really have? Do you plan on acquiring more? These are questions to ask yourself when looking at different camera bags.

How much a bag can hold is important. If you get one that’s too small, you’ll end up having to leave things behind; too big and your equipment will be bumping around in your bag all day long.

Besides camera gear, it’s also nice to have a bag that fits a little bit more, namely things like a laptop and/or tablet, a notebook and maybe even a sweatshirt. Having everything in one place is convenient and especially practical for editing on the go.
Protection
While a camera bag might be stylish and tick all the boxes above, you should consider how much protection it offers. Protection is a key element when it comes to camera bags because this is their main use anyway.

Each bag offers protection in a different way. The most common form you’ll find is bags with padded compartments and foam inserts to keep your gear comfortably in place.

It’s nice to pick a bag that allows you to rearrange the inserts in a way that’s most useful for your gear. If the inserts are fixed, it’s best to pick a bag with lots of them so that you have your fair pick when it comes time to pack your camera equipment away.

Design
The design of a camera bag is just as important as any other consideration. Being able to get in and out of your bag with ease is a must so you don’t have to spend precious time digging around for what you need and risk missing the perfect shot.

A flat design is also convenient because it allows you to completely unzip the bag and quickly grab what you need without digging around in a typical top-loaded bag style. It also allows you to see all of your equipment for those spur of the moment choices.

It’s also nice to choose a bag that has multiple access points instead of just a single one at the top.

Finally, in terms of design, pockets are king. I mean, come on, who wants a bag with just one main compartment and that’s it.

Check for bags with exterior pockets, inside pockets, pen pockets, laptop pockets, hidden pockets… you know, the works. Having separate compartments for all of your gear is a game changer in terms of organization. Luckily, most camera bags come fully equipped with all the pockets you could dream of.
Material
When choosing a bag, take a look at the material that it’s made of. Material will greatly influence the weight, flexibility, and protection a bag offers. It will also contribute to its durability and lifespan.

The main use of your camera bag will help you determine what material is best for you.

If you’ll be out photographing adventures and remote places, you’ll be better suited for a more rugged bag that’s made of tough and weather-resistant material. If you get caught in a light rain shower or snag on a branch while wandering around, you’ll want something that will still protect your gear at a moment’s notice.

Many camera bags use canvas as a main material, but you’ll also come across companies that use leather, synthetic materials or nylon for the bag’s construction.
Durability
The bottom line is that you want a bag that’s durable and can withstand whatever your journeys throw at it.

Since your camera bag will probably have quite a good deal of equipment in it, you’ll want something that’s made with high quality craftsmanship. Look for reinforced seams, strong zippers, and straps that will withstand a large amount of weight.

If you keep all of this in mind when choosing a camera bag, you’ll definitely find one that’s right for you.
Best Camera Bags 2022
To help you find the best camera bag for you, we’ve rounded up the best ones in each category.

Whether you’re looking for something that’s small or large, rugged or classic, you’re sure to find something on this list that’s suited to you!
Messenger & Shoulder Bags for Cameras
We kick off our reviews with classic shoulder or messenger bags for cameras. Whichever style you pick, you’ll be able to swing it over your shoulder and access your camera and equipment with ease.
Kattee Leather Canvas Camera Bag

Pros: Roomy for a messenger bag | 6 color options | Good for both casual and professional use
Cons: Sharp metal zipper | Color of bag can rub off | Side pockets tricky to access
A beautiful mix of canvas and leather, this messenger bag is perfect for loading up all your camera gear for a day of shooting.

The large pocket is outfitted with an inner tank bag that’s padded and designed for keeping your camera equipment in place. This Kattee bag holds a DSLR and two lenses, with the option to customize the dividers to create sections of your preferred size.

Besides the large inside pocket, there are also two snap pockets on the outside bag under the flat sealing that are useful for holding things like chargers, extra batteries and SD cards. There are also two side pockets that are perfect for slipping your phone, power bank or small notebook into while on the go.

Finally, you’ve got a zippered pocket on the interior for keeping personal items safe and sound.

When traveling with smaller cameras and less equipment, you’re able to fit a laptop, tablet and other supplies in as well. With a larger camera, you could probably fit your laptop but it would certainly be a bit of a squeeze.

View on Amazon
Tenba Messenger DNA 15

Pros: Lots of pockets | Sleek design | Top handle and luggage attachment | Very spacious interior
Cons: Bag isn’t rigid which can affect the fit of gear | Magnetic clips come loose easily
If you’re looking for practicality combined with style in a messenger bag, give the Tenba DNA 15 a whirl.

This bag incredibly well-thought out and beautifully-designed. Completely sleek-looking on the outside, this bag offers users multiple access points to get what you need no matter the situation. Without opening the entire front flap, you’re still able to get your largest camera out with ease and precision.

What’s so special about this bag are the fastenings that keep it secured. The flap closes with a unique kind of velcro that’s designed to be almost silent when used instead of emitting that sickening “chrrrrrrr” as you pull it apart. This is ideal when shooting in noise-sensitive locations like at an event or trying to capture wildlife.

Besides the velcro, the bag is further held together with magnetic clips that release extra quickly without catching. All in all, you’ll never fumble with the openings of this bag.

Did I mention that there also are D-locks to secure it while you ride a bike or scooter?

The DNA 15 fits a professional-sized DSLR with 2-3 lenses. There are also two separate sleeves — one for a 15″ laptop and one for a tablet or Kindle. The entire front is covered in pockets which are hidden when the flap is on. There’s even a mesh side compartment for a water bottle.

Finally, the bag comes with a weather cover to protect it from the elements and has straps for when you want to attach it to rolling luggage. We seriously can’t get enough of this amazing camera bag.

View on Amazon
Billingham Hadley Pro Shoulder Bag

Pros: High quality materials | Sturdy top carry handle | Fits good amount of gear | Extra pockets | 6 color options
Cons: Expensive | No shoulder pad on strap | Shoulder strap not detachable
While certainly a pricey option, you’re paying for quality with this shoulder bag. Made of canvas and leather, this shoulder bag by Billingham is certainly made for pros — as the name suggests.

The brass buckles that keep this bag closed are easily opened with the quick release system that’s built in. This way, you can always get what you need fast, without fear that the bag is going to open on its own. The two front pockets have this same mechanism as well.

The insert on this bag is highly padded and easily removable, allowing you enough space to fit everything you need, from your camera’s body to lenses and external flashes. There’s also a top of the insert, that when closed, will protect your gear from the elements, whether you get caught in a quick shower or experience heavy dust or dirt.

Behind the insert, you can also fit a 13″ laptop snugly, or other flat items you may want to take along.

Coming in 6 different colors and complete with a handle option for carrying, this bag is certainly beautiful. Plus, it doesn’t necessarily signal it’s a camera bag, making it great for daily use as well as purely for function.

View on Amazon
Sling Bags for Cameras
If you’re looking for something a little smaller than a shoulder bag, try out a sling that’s perfect for toting around less gear for a lighter shooting experience.

Slings are wonderful for both carrying on your back and easy access to your equipment. Instead of taking the bag off, you just have to “sling” it around to your front and open it up to get what you need. Talk about convenience!
MOSISO Camera Sling Bag

Pros: Removable modular inserts | Anti-theft back pocket | Easy to access camera and gear
Cons: Gets bulky with tripod attached to side | Weak stitching in some places
Seeking a small bag that offers a little bit of everything? Well, here ya go. This MOSISO sling bag is shockproof, water-repellent, breathable, and highly padded to protect anything you need to take along for a day of photography.

The main compartment of this bag wraps around and fits a DSLR with an attached lens, as well as two additional lenses for changing on the fly. Besides the padded insert, you’ll also find a mesh sleeve for stashing small items. This pocket is secured not only with a zipper but a buckle as well for the ultimate security.

The top compartment is rounded at the top and designed for fitting a camera flash and other accessories that you may need at a moment’s notice. But wait, that’s not all! There’s also a zippered mesh pocket here.

The last pocket is hidden on the back, and is perfect for storing personal items like a phone or wallet because they’ll be absolutely safe from theft.

This sling bag has a main adjustable strap that makes it perfect for swirling around to the front of your body as needed and a strap on the side that becomes a tripod holder. This bag really makes sure you’ll have what you need in a pinch without shuffling around to find what you’re looking for.

View on Amazon
Baoluo Camera Sling Backpack

Pros: Converts to backpack | Tablet pocket | Included rain cover | Lots of pockets with side compartments
Cons: Thinner padding
This bag is slightly large and only has a single main pocket, but there are some absolutely unbeatable features that Baoluo offers with this sling.

But first, the basics. This bag has a main compartment that opens to lay flat, with ultra thick inner padded dividers. Here you can fit a large DSLR, a camera lens, battery and several other accessories. There are also slip pockets in the main compartment and special slots dedicated to memory cards and chords. Off to a pretty good start, huh?

On the front of the bag, you have a smaller flap pocket. One side has a stretchy mesh holder for a water bottle, umbrella or anything else you can think of to occupy this space. The other side has a zippered pocket for anything spare you may need to grab quickly. Or you could stick your wallet in here for easy access.

Now for the fun stuff!

There’s a hidden pocket along the back that fits a tablet or iPad Mini in its breathable, padded interior. At the base of the back of the bag, there’s also another small pocket that contains a rain cover for those moments of unprecedented downpours. While the bag itself is made of splash-proof nylon, the rain cover gives you some extra peace of mind for when it’s especially treacherous.

The bottom of the bag also has a strap for securing a tripod. Seriously, they thought of everything with this bad boy.

The best part about this bag, however, is the strap.

At first glance, it’s a typical sling bag shoulder strap that you can throw over your back as needed. But if you look a little closer, you’ll notice that there’s a zipper, that when utilized, will create two straps out of the one, allowing you to wear this like a backpack!

If you’re looking for versatility and high functionality, this is the best sling out there.
Team Alilapee
#Bags #Camera #Travel
https://bit.ly/3uhjSo6

Comments

Popular posts from this blog