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Home » Gear » best camera bag

The 15 Best Camera Bags of 2024: For DSLR, Mirrorless, Drones + More

Us travelers love to take epic photos and capture the incredible scenes that lay themselves before us on a daily basis. Whilst some of us are happy with their iPhones, others take things further and end up investing in a high-quality camera set up (Oh, that’s me!). If you’re also like me then you’ll be neurotic when it comes to looking after your new prized possessions.

What’s the best way to look after them whilst you’re out and about shooting, well that would be to invest in a great camera bag. Not only will a proper camera bag set up protect your gear, but it will make using it easier with many having various pockets and storage options optimised for photographers.

But with so many options available, which one is best for you? Worry not. I’m here to help you find the perfect camera bag for your needs. Whether you’re searching out the best budget camera bags, a photography suitcase or something fancy like a quick access camera bag. We’ve got you covered!

With this guide, you’ll receive a ton of tips and info on what constitutes the best camera bag for travel and what makes a solid investment, direct from a photographer myself. I’ve tested them out in various different circumstances and taken into account the needs of different photographers and travelers to find the ultimate camera bag.

Right then, let’s go!

Top Picks for the Best Camera Bags of 2024

Camera bags – comparison table, the 15 best camera bags of 2024, what to consider when buying the best travel camera bag, how and where we tested to find the best camera bags, faq about how to select the best camera bag.

• WANDRD PRVKE 31  – Overall Best Travel Camera Bag
• Nomatic Mckinnon 35L Camera Bag – Best Travel Camera Bag Runner Up
• Kodiak Messenger Bag – Best Messenger Camera Bag
• Boundary Supply Prima-System – Best Modular Camera Bag
• Mountainsmith TANUCK 40L – Best Hiking Camera Bag
• Domke F-5XA – Best Small Travel Camera Bag
• HEX Back Loader DSLR Camera Bag – Best Camera Bag for Urban Travel
• Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II – Best Holster-Style Travel Camera Bag
• Case Logic Bryker – Best Budget Travel Camera Bag
• Neewer 2:1 Camera Backpack Trolley Case – Best Camera Bag for Air Travel
• Jump to -> The List of 15 Best Travel Camera Bags of 2024

Types of Travel Camera Bags

Every photographer knows that a bag is just as important as their actual equipment. Should the shit hit the fan, a well-built bag or backpack could mean the difference between a functioning travel camera and a dead piece of kit.

Many photographers spend hundreds of dollars on a camera bag so that they can protect their gear from all sorts of dangers like poor weather, accidents, and thieves. If you’re serious about travel photography, then you need to make a serious effort to find the best camera bag possible.

Are you a casual photographer who just wants something easy? Maybe a shoulder or messenger bag would be best for you. Do you travel often and need maximum protection for your gear? Maybe a full-fledged backpack or roller bag is necessary then. Do you want to just store your gear or have your camera with the lens attached and ready to go? Maybe a side-opening backpack might be the one.

No matter what your preference is, there’s a travel camera bag out there that’s made for you and I aim to help you find it.

Before jumping into the reviews for each travel camera bag, it would pay to look at the multitude of styles out there. Below are the six main varieties of bags outlined in this guide and some brief descriptions of their pros/cons.

• Shoulder Bags  – A smaller bag with a shorter strap. This bag is meant to go over one shoulder and fall about to your rib cage. Shoulder bags are very light and usually easy to access though they are limited in space. Sling bags also fall into the shoulder bags category.
• Messenger Bag  – Similar to a shoulder bag but slightly larger with a longer strap. Usually falls to about the hip and can be strung across your body/over both shoulders. Think of them like a camera briefcase!
• Holster Bag  – A bag that is meant to be attached to some sort of garment, like a chest harness or strong belt. These are sometimes smaller than shoulder bags and are meant to hold just one camera with a lens attached at a time.
• Backpack  – These have more interior space for cameras and lenses, which makes them the best travel camera bags for DSLRs. Often has a laptop compartment or padded laptop sleeve as well. If designed properly, camera and lens backpacks are more adept at distributing weight in a comfortable manner across the shoulder straps. Access is an issue though as you usually have to take off the backpack first to get to your gear, unless you get one with a side access pocket.
• Roller Bag  – Similar capacity to a standard backpack but meant to be rolled on the ground. These types of bags are obviously not meant for rugged, remote work but for urban projects where the bag can easily navigate.
• Backpack Insert – A large accessory that is meant to fit into another larger backpack. Many photographers prefer these because usually travel backpacks are more comfortable and come equipped with more features.

Wandrd PRVKE 31

• Favorite Features > Spacious
• Why I Like it > Very Adaptable

Nomatic Mckinnon 35L Camera Bag

• Favorite Features > Big enough to haul multiple lenses, a drone, batteries, etc
• Why I Like it > Quick access, tough construction design

Domke F-5XA

• Price > $$$
• Favorite Features > Small and Light
• Why I Like It? > Good Value

Kodiak Messenger Bag

• Favorite Features > Spacious Interior
• Why I Like It > Lots of Compartments

Mahi Leather Vintage Camera Bag

• Favorite Feature > Made from exceptionally good materials
• Why I Like It > Very Stylish

Hex Back Loader DSLR Backpack

• Favorite Features > The wonderful interior
• Why I Like It > Reliable

Case Logic Bryker

• Favorite Features > Camera Hammock Included
• Why I Like It > Affordable

Neewer 2:1 Camera Backpack Trolley Case

• Price > $$$$
• Favorite Features > Super Sturdy/Tough
• Why I Like It > Carry-on Compliant

Now that you have a good idea as to what to look for when investing in a good travel camera bag, let’s look at some of the best so you can find your perfect camera bag in no time.

Below is a list of the 14 best travel camera bags for 2024. Each one should serve a different type of travel photographer, from the budget-minded to ultra-light backpacker. Choose the one that is best suited for your style of shooting.

So, let’s get cracking with the best camera bags for travel …

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1.  WANDRD PRVKE 31

The Best Overall Travel Camera Bag

• Capacity: 31 L
• Dimensions: 19 x 12.5 x 7.5 inches / 48.3 x 31.8 x 19.1 cm
• Weight: 3.4 lbs / 1.54 kg

The WANDRD PRVKE 31 is our choice for the best overall camera bag! Thanks to its awesome design, excellent protectiveness, and great customisability, this backpack will appeal to both casual and professional photographers alike.

Upon first glance, one will notice how good the WANDRD PRVKE 31 looks. Its minimalistic aesthetics make it appear very sleek and sexy and we personally love the all-black tone.

This bag doesn’t sacrifice any protectiveness for looks either – the WANDRD PRVKE 31 still does a very good job of guarding your gear thanks in part to its high-quality materials and excellent overall structure.

In terms of ergonomics, you can access the WANDRD PRVKE 31 via three different access points spread throughout the bag. Most of these entryways are very intuitive although getting to them may be a little tedious for some users. You can store your mirrorless camera or DSLR with the lens attached and be able to pull it out whenever you need it.

In addition to these access points, there are tons of extra hidden pockets as well as lots of other points for mounting various accessories.

Oh, In case you want something smaller, then check out The WANDRD Lite or the WANDRD Duo .

• Very adaptable with easy access for camera
• Surprisingly spacious given weight
• Robust yet great to look at
• Lacks some adjustability
• Can be less comfortable at heavier weights
• Could use more space for camera gear

The WANDRD PRVKE 31 can hold quite a bit – up to 36 litres with the rolltop fully extended – which is quite impressive considering how light the actual bag is (3.4 lbs). It does sit a little heavy on the shoulders though especially when the bag is packed with weighty equipment. The shoulder straps are adjustable and there are waist straps that you can install but both could be better.

To properly store your camera gear, you’ll have to buy a WANDRD Camera Cube in addition to the bag. Though this accessory usually fits snugly in the backpack, it can float around a little and thus be tedious to access at times. This can be attached to the side opening for easy access to your camera with the lens attached. The top section above can then be used to store additional lenses and accessories.

Also, it offers a good amount of space for mirrorless systems and might be the perfect camera bag for the Sony a7IV, but full-frame DSLR users may find it insufficient. If you need a more spacious camera and lens backpack, we suggest checking out the Lowepro 450 AW below.

Is the WANDRD PRVKE 31 for you?

Do you want a bag that is suitable for all walks of life? Do you want something that will both protect your gear and look good at the same time? The WANDRD PRVKE 31 offers a little bit of everything and will prove to be imminently useful to those photographers who are always on the run! It’s super versatile too so it can be used even if you’re not a photographer, making it one of the best EDC backpacks too.

Our team absolutely loved this pack, in fact, personally, this became my go-to camera backpack for the vast majority of my trips. There are several things I love about this bag, but the number one has to be how easy I find it to organise my gear and access it when needed. Having the bottom area of the bag dedicated to my camera and lenses and I’ve got access to my main set-up from the side door whenever needed. I can then use the roll-top section for everything else, I can easily fit in a hoody, jacket and hard drives for example. For all these reasons it’s my best camera bag for travel!

Be sure to check out our full review of the PRVKE WANDRD 31 for more information!

2. Nomatic Mckinnon 35L Camera Bag

Runner up for the Best Camera Bag

• Capacity: 35 L
• Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 9 inches / 53.3 x 35.6 x 22.9 cm
• Weight: 4.95 lbs / 2.24 kg

What happens when a world-class photographer and badass backpack company join forces? The result is quite epic indeed. The Nomatic Mckinnon 35 L Camera Bag is a fully-featured travel backpack perfectly crafted for the sort of gear photographers need to carry. 

The clamshell opening delivers easy access to your camera, lenses, batteries, etc. As you open the main compartment, you’ll notice there are a few pockets on the backside of the pack for even more organisational options. I appreciate that the two main pockets are see-through mesh, making it easy for me to find what I am looking for on the fly. There is also a large pocket that could easily fit papers, a binder, more clothes, etc. It’s a solid spot for a laptop. 

35 litres gives you just enough space to pack lightly for a weekend on the road or to a neighbouring city. To be honest, it is a difficult choice between the Nomatic Mckinnon 35 L and the WANDRD PRVKE 31 – both are team favourites here at The Broke Backpacker. Another important feature to note is that the Mckinnon 35 can be expanded by 7 litres, giving you room for more gear if need be. 

• Excellent storage and organization
• Quality Build
• Doubles as a great weekend bag/ day backpack for traveling
• The hipbelt is a little small
• Extremely heavy… almost 6-pounds with no gear
• Too big for tiny girls and guys!

For any active photographer, weight is an important factor to consider. My own camera gear (lenses, camera body, cleaning tools, batteries, filters, etc) weighs at least 10 pounds plus my tripod is not the lightest unit either. That means that with all my camera gear packed inside the backpack – the total weight is pushing 16 pounds with no clothes or laptop packed inside. 

Carrying some extra bulk and weight is something that I am used to as it just kind of comes with the territory if you are a halfway serious photographer. The pack is also a great tech backpack with heaps of room to keep all your other accessories safe like your hard drives, chargers and cables.

For me, the comfort, organisational features, and sleek design outweigh the negatives of having a heavy base weight. 

Is the Nomatic Mckinnon 35L for you?

If style, functionality, and speedy access are important to you – the Nomatic Mckinnon 35 L is a great buy. We have been using Nomatic products for years and I have never been disappointed in the performance of one of their packs thus far. Again it is a toss-up between the WANDRD PRVKE 31 and this pack – but in the end, you can’t go wrong with either one. 

Again, our team felt this bag was an epic option and they just loved the range of different features of this pack including how customisable it is, and how large it can expand to when needed. They did reflect that it was possibly too big as a standard day pack unless you carry a ton of gear and that in fact, its best use was for those with camera gear wanting a pack that could be used as a one-bag travel solution for shorter trips.

3. Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW

The Best Camera Bag for Serious Photographers

• Capacity: 25 L (can expand to 30 L)
• Dimensions: 12.4 x 9.4 x 18.5 inches / 31.5 x 23.9 x 47 cm
• Weight: 4.54 lbs / 2.06 kg

The Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW gets very high marks because of its awesome customizability, competitive price point, and superlatively durable construction. Many pro photographers love this bag and exclaim that it is their favourite camera bag of all time.

Made from high-grade synthetic materials, the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW is built to withstand the harshest of threats. Though this bag may appear hefty – weighing in at 5 lbs – most users will hardly notice this as the straps and padding on the back are very well designed and provide optimal comfort. The addition of a thick waist strap adds additional support.

The most attractive part of the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW is its exterior “slip-lock” loops, which provide the means to attach multiple accessories. Possible augmentations include mounts for a water bottle, tripod, or additional cases for extra gear. This system allows for unmatched versatility and the ability to fully customise your bag.

• Very customisable
• Built like a tank
• Excellent design for enhanced comfort
• Little heavy
• Not very discreet
• Amount of interior dividers might be overwhelming for some

The interior of the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW is spacious and equally modifiable as the exterior. Multiple compartments can be created using the included padded dividers.

These chambers can easily be reached via one of the four access points spread throughout the bag. There’s so much going on inside this bag that some casual photographers may actually be slightly intimidated.

As mentioned before, Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW is a bit heavy. Some casual photographers may think that this bag is a bit overkill, yet we can’t honestly knock this bag for going above and beyond. The ergonomics are just so damn good.

Some professionals may feel like they stick out in a crowd with this backpack because of its look and size. In a worst-case scenario, heavy-duty zippers and construction should deter most attackers though.

Is the Lowepro Tactic 450 AW for you?

Looking for a backpack that is both innovative and reliable? Do you need to pack lots of gear and want total protection at the same time? Then go for the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW! This top-of-the-line backpack is full of inventive ways to pack your equipment and is, overall, one of the top camera bags that money can buy. There is a laptop compartment but it’s not as good as some of the others in my opinion.

Our team loves bags that are super versatile and can be configured for plenty of different uses and that’s just one of the features of this pack that makes it stand out. They love how the main central area can be used entirely for your camera gear or with the use of cubes can be split into sections and accessed from the side pockets. Another stand-out feature was the tactical webbing which made carrying any other random bits of gear mega easy.

4. Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L

The Best Overall Travel Camera Runner-up

• Capacity: 30 L
• Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7.75 inches / 50.8 x 31.8 x 19.7 cm

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L is our third choice for the best overall camera bag for travel. This backpack is simply gorgeous to look at and, most of the time, a thrill to use.

The Peak Design Everyday 30L and the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW have a lot in common in that they’re both highly customizable and very accessible. Like the ProTactic, the Peak Design Everyday 30L has multiple entry points that allow you to easily grab your gear on the go and not fiddle too much. Multiple attachment points also enable you to mount a number of accessories onto the bag, including a tripod mount and an exterior clip to hold your camera.

What sets the Peak Design Everyday 30L apart from the ProTactic is its sleek and sexy appearance. Made from weatherproof materials and designed to be as compact as possible, this bag is absolutely dazzling to look at.

Durable zippers and an innovative MagLatch system mean that this bag is very secure without having to sacrifice any usability. At 3.5 lbs, it’s a bit lighter than the ProTactic though the Peak Design is a little less spacious and holds less gear.

• Very spacious and accessible
• Customisable
• Sleek, stylish design
• Shoulder straps a bit uncomfortable, especially if you have a larger body frame
• The bag can feel too big for someone under 5’5”
• Slightly expensive for a bag of its type

For all of its original features though, the Peak Design Everyday 30L falls short in a couple of ways. Due in part to its size, this bag is primarily catered to people over a certain height (5’5”) so shorter photographers may find it a bit cumbersome.

Some taller photographers – reportedly, those over 6’0” – complain that the shoulder straps are uncomfortable on their larger shoulders though, which feels a little counterintuitive ergonomically speaking.

This discrepancy implies that only photographers between 5’5” and 6’0” can effectively use this bag, a narrow demographic to be sure.

Is the Peak Design Everyday backpack for you?

Do you want a gorgeous travel camera bag that is jam-packed with customisable features? My friends, the Peak Design Everyday 30L Backpack is a solid choice. This versatile bag is useful, secure, and just drop-dead good-looking. If it fits you, this backpack will serve you very well.

Peak Design is a well-loved brand among the photographers on our team and their bag is highly thought of. The brand is made for and by photographers and they tend to think about their needs when they design their gear. The team really reflected this to us and loved features such as the large dual-side opening doors meaning their gear can be configured exactly how they wanted it. They also loved how hard wearing the pack felt and how well-protected their gear was against the elements.

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5. Boundary Supply Prima-System

Best Modular Camera Bag

• Capacity: 30 L (can expand to 38 L)
• Dimensions: 12W x 21H x 7D”
• Weight: 4.16 lbs. / 1.88 kg

The Boundary Supply Prima-System backpack  is one of our favourite modular camera bags for travel. Like the Peak Design, the Prima-System uses innovative modules to help keep your items secure and organised.

This is a fantastic backpack set apart from many other travel backpacks because of its modular design and special camera compartment. When you buy this backpack, you are also investing their included modules, the Verge and Field space , for ultimate organisation and storage.

If you are looking for a camera backpack for everyday use or an efficient backpack for overnight getaways, then the Prima System by Boundary Supply is one of your best choices, period.

It’s durable, stylish, uniquely modular, and perfect for commuting as well as travel. This is the perfect weekend backpack for digital nomads and anyone travelling with camera gear and electronics.

If you’re travelling even lighter or you just have to get from A to B really fast, opting for the Boundary Supply Errant Backpack is a great option for you too.

Check out our full review to learn more about the Boundary Supply Prima-System backpack.

• Very durable
• Innovative Modules
• 25-35L can be an awkward size
• Only one pocket for water bottle or tripod

For all of its original features though, the Prima system has a couple of drawbacks, mostly due to its size. It’s not quite large enough to make your sole travel bag.

Secondly, this backpack is built for commuting, riding a bike, etc. because of its sleek profile. The downside of this is the lack of pockets on the exterior. However, it does feature a side opening for quick access to your camera with the lens attached so you can shoot in no time.

There is only one water bottle pocket that doubles as a tripod holder, so you can’t store a tripod and a water bottle at the same time. If I’m out shooting, I want a tripod and a water bottle .

Is the Boundary Supply Prima-System for you?

Do you want an innovative travel camera bag with customisable features? Do you need a bag that keeps your gear secure and organised? If so, this may be your match made in heaven.

Our team love the modular system of this backpack and they really appreciate the way in which it made using and accessing their gear so much easier and simpler. One of the ways they did this was to take advantage of the removable camera cube that can double as a shoulder bag. They loved how they could not only carry their gear in two ways with this pack but how they could easily remove their expensive gear from their bag when needed, like putting this cube in your locker before quickly heading out with the rest of the bag.

6. Mountainsmith TANUCK 40L

The Best Hiking Camera Bag

• Capacity: 40 L
• Dimensions: 26 x 12 x 10 inches / 66 x 30.5 x 25.4 cm
• Weight: 4.87 lbs / 2.21 kg

Finally, a backpack made for hiking  and  securing your camera gear. This backpack was designed between Mountain Smith and the famous landscape and surfer photographer, Chris Burkard, to handle miles of hiking while keeping camera gear secure.

Like all good hiking backpacks, this bag has a comfortable and durable waist strap, shoulder pads, and padded back panel and it is loaded with organizational pockets, modules, and more.

A few unique features include its durability and seemingly indestructible water-resistant material, a waterproof and abrasion-proof bottom, #10 sized YKK zippers, great organizational pockets, and large water bottle side pockets.

It’s not just a camera bag, but a hiking pack for cameras .

• Built for hiking and photography
• Weather-resistant and extremely durable
• Great for organising gear
• Overkill for everyday use
• Top flap is loose without full load

The only real drawback is this backpack’s weight. For every ounce of extra protection is an extra ounce of weight. The top flap is always loose unless you have a full load. Not a deal-breaker, but a bit annoying.

Aside from those two cons, I would say this is one of my favourite travel backpacks, and the fact that is built for camera gear is only the icing on the cake.

For more information, check out my full Mountainsmith camera bag TANUCK review, here .

Is the Mountainsmith TANUCK for you?

Finally, an amazing camera bag is built for multi-day treks and adventures. If you need a camera bag that can handle the elements, this is the camera bag for you.

Our team really loved the extra space this bag afforded them, especially for hiking trips where they needed to bring along extra gear for their trek. Another area of the bag they felt was perfect for more challenging adventures was the material it was made from and the superior construction. They loved how rugged the fabric was and how durable things like the zippers felt especially when hiking.

7. Domke F-5XA

The Best Small Travel Camera Bag / Shoulder Bag

• Capacity: Not specified by the manufacturer
• Dimensions: 10 x 4 x 7 inches / 25.4 x 10.2 x 17.8 cm
• Weight: 1 lb / 0.45 kg

The diminutive Domke F-5XA shoulder bag is one of the best small camera bags out there. For travel photographers who use a smaller compact or mirrorless with only a lens or two, this bag is perfect for walking around.

Domke has been producing top-quality camera bags for generations. Their durability and compactness have made Domkes a favourite among journalists and documentary photographers. These bags will stand up to some very harsh conditions and never take up too much room.

• Small, light and comfortable
• Weather resistant canvas construction w/ zipper
• Limited space
• Very few pockets
• Padding is somewhat thin

The interior dimensions of the Domke F-5XA shoulder bag are 4 x 7.5 x 7.5″, which are humble numbers. The Domke F-5XA can accommodate one mirrorless camera and a couple of additional lenses depending on their size.

Unfortunately, though, this is a small camera bag that doesn’t have lots of space and it’s ill-suited for photographers who carry a larger camera or lots of equipment. There are two pockets on the front of the Domke F-5XA for extra accessories and/or phones.

The Domke F-5XA weighs about 1 lb, and the extra-comfortable removable shoulder strap should ensure that users are almost never straining.

Users who want maximum accessibility from their Domke F-5XA can customise the removable shoulder strap and instead run their belt through the camera bag.

The Domke is one of the best photography bags for when you need quick access to your camera at a moment’s notice. Using the Domke as a sort of holster instead of a shoulder bag will allow users to quickly grab their camera and start shooting. Whoever does this had better have a nice and sturdy belt though lest they want their pants to fall down.

Is the Domke Shoulder Bag F-5XA for you?

Do you need a smaller bag that suits your smaller mirrorless camera and additional lenses? Do you want a product from a reputable company that has been serving photographers for decades? Then the Domke F-5XA Bag is the one for you! This bag is very practical and durable, and at a great price as well. For these reasons, the F-5XA is the best small travel camera bag on this list.

Our testers enjoyed the lower profile of this shoulder bag compared to heavier and bulkier camera bags. They felt it held just enough for a day out exploring without encouraging over-packing and was particularly well suited to a mirrorless setup. The strap was comfortable when the pack was full and they enjoyed the addition of the small outer pockets for batteries and memory cards.

8. Kodiak Messenger Bag

The Best Messenger Camera Bag

• Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 6 inches / 40.6 x 30.5 x 15.2 cm
• Weight: 3.5 lbs / 1.59 kg

For photographers who need a little extra space in their messenger bag, the spacious Kodiak Messenger Bag is the way to go. Leather camera bags mix elegance, style and longevity.

This travel camera bag is larger than the Domke F-5XA with a main compartment that can comfortably hold a mirrorless camera plus 2-3 additional lenses. This bag is perfect for the travel photographer who wants to carry a full kit without having to use a backpack.

Whilst made from hard-wearing leather, it is still relatively light enough to carry over your shoulder. The internal dimensions – 16 x 4 x 12″ – are large enough to accommodate a larger camera system, like a Fuji X-Series and the shoulder strap makes it all pretty comfy too.

The addition of several pockets ensures that you’ll have enough room for all of your extra accessories as well. Other features, like an included rain cover and silenceable velcro, only add to the usefulness of this travel camera bag.

• Spacious interior for larger cameras
• Lots of extra compartments
• Excellent build
• Main compartment doesn’t zip
• About as heavy as a messenger bag should be

Is the Kodiak Messenger Bag for you?

The Kodiak is made from tough canvas and is very well constructed. Appearance-wise, the bag is very beautiful and suave.

Speaking from experience, I can say that the Kodiak Messenger Bag can survive most situations. While shooting in Johannesburg, I was robbed by a group of thieves.

They got away with my wallet and phone but I was able to keep my camera bag either because it was strong enough to withstand their attacks or because they didn’t realise it was a camera bag at all.

The Kodiak Messenger Bag is probably the largest messenger bag that one can use before feeling bodily discomfort. When fully packed, this messenger bag can definitely feel a little weighty on the shoulder strap. If you find that your shoulders begin to ache, then it’s probably time to move on to a full-fledged backpack.

Do like to carry messenger bags? Is your camera kit getting a little large? The Messenger Bag by Kodiak is an excellent bag that is very spacious (for its type) and rugged to boot. Those who want to stick to messenger bags will find that the Messenger is one of the best camera bags for travel that there is.

Our team liked the versitility of this bag and felt it looked super professional whislt also working perfectly as a camera or commuter bag … or both. They felt the inside being just one large space maybe needed the addition of a camera cube or some other type of insert but that it meant it was easy to personalise to their needs.

9. HEX Back Loader DSLR Camera Backpack 

The Best Camera Bag for Urban Travel

• Dimensions: 21 x 11 x 7 inches / 53.3 x 27.9 x 17.8 cm
• Weight: 2.8 lbs / 1.27 kg

People who spend a lot of time in the city have to deal with certain problems: riding public transport, navigating city streets, all of these and more. Some may take these things for granted, but as someone who has lived in the city and countryside, trust me, having the right backpack for the former matters. If you’re looking for one of the best hipster camera bags, then this is it.

Enter the HEX DSLR Camera Backpack. This bag is spacious, sturdy, and customisable, which are all features that pay dividends in the city. There is enough room to pack more than a day’s worth of gear and supplies, plenty of padding to keep everything safe, and strong zippers to deter thieves. Did we mention that the DSLR camera bag is also very comfortable given its size?

• Durable design that works.
• Interior spacious and customisable.
• Easy to pack around.
• Awkward fit for women.
• Lack of external loops.
• Bulky design can be slightly uncomfortable.

The HEX DSLR Backpack is quite easy to access. The most immediate access point is at the top of the bag – most photographers will put their camera here so they can grab and go shooting. The main compartment is opened via the back suitcase-style; most of your stashed gear can be accessed from here.

There are a couple of problems with the HEX backpack. The flat black design is not 100% comfortable, especially as a camera bag for women . We would also have liked to see more external loops for hanging extra accessories. Finally, although the HEX may not be easy for thieves to access, it is flashy enough to catch people’s attention.

Is the HEX Camera Backpack for you?

Do you need a camera backpack that is good for the city? Do you need something that is big enough to carry a day or two’s worth of gear? The HEX does all of these and more. For urban travellers, we recommend grabbing the HEX as they will have something that is large, easy, and reliable.

Our team loved the hipster look of this bag and felt it had the perfect vibe for city travels and for those who work in design studios or other relaxed but professional workplaces. They felt keeping the large main section for all your camera gear, but having separate organisational pockets for other accessories, as well as a laptop sleeve, was perfect.

Be sure to check out our complete review of the HEX Back Loader to learn more about this camera bag!

10. Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II

The Best Holster-Style Travel Camera Bag

• Dimensions: 4.72 x 3.94 x 5.91 in
• Weight: 0.44 lbs

The Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II is a holster-style camera bag that is great for photographers who want quick access to their camera. Holster bags are usually the smallest of all travel camera bags and are meant to be worn on your belt or on your chest via a harness/ shoulder strap.

By wearing your camera at your waist or on the front of your person, you can grab your camera and start shooting faster than a Texas gunslinger. For this reason, the Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II is one of the best small travel camera bags available.

The Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II can accommodate one large DSLR with a lens attached and no more. It might also fit a smaller mirrorless camera with some additional lenses that are on the more compact side.

• Very small and light
• Extremely easy access
• Comes with a rain cover
• Very limited space
• Rain cover can sometimes be a hassle
• Can be a little flimsy or awkward

There are a few extra zippers and pouches to hold accessories but these are pretty limited in space. Those who carry around lots of camera equipment ought to consider a second bag or backpack, like the Tenba BYOB Camera Insert.

The Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II weighs in at a meagre 0.8 lbs. It can be worn in a number of ways – either on your belt or over your shoulder with a strap.

It does take a bit of troubleshooting to find the best arrangement though as each photographer will be most comfortable with a certain way of wearing the bag.

The Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II is made from durable synthetic materials that allow for maximum lightness.

These fabrics aren’t very good at being waterproof but, thankfully, the Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II comes with a built-in rain cover that does a better job of withstanding the elements.

Is the Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II for you?

Are you a run-and-gun style photographer who needs to be able to grab their camera in a split second? Do you still need a bag that offers some degree of protection? For those who want one of the best small travel camera bags, the Lowepro Adventura SH 100 II is a fantastic choice. With it, you get one of the lightest options available and the ability to quickly pull out your travel camera in the blink of an eye.

A toploading camera case isn’t for everyone but many of our team loved the way it reduced what they carried on a trip out and made shooting quick, easy and fun. The only drawback they didn’t like was that they couldn’t carry another lens or bring heaps of accessories. They felt this case was useful as more of an addition to your set-up than a main bag.

11. Case Logic Bryker

The Best Budget Travel Camera Bag

• Dimensions: 10.6 x 7.5 x 16.1 in
• Weight: 1.56 pounds

At around $70 new, the Case Logic Bryker is the best budget travel camera bag that you can find! With a very spacious interior and a nice rigid frame, this backpack is sure to handle all of your needs.

The Case Logic Bryker can accommodate most full camera systems including multiple DSLRs and a litany of lenses. If you’re packing a larger mirrorless camera with additional lenses you’ll find it pretty spacious alongside your accessories too.

The various spacers and interior dividers can be readjusted to fit any lens or camera as well, allowing for the usual customisation.

Some users of this bag have complained that the various internal compartments are too shallow though so users of overly-large equipment may be frustrated. In addition, there are plentiful pockets for accessories and a rear laptop compartment that can fit a 16” computer.

We did say this was the best budget camera bag and boy does it bring the features!

• Great bang for your buck
• Large enough to hold DSLR + 5-6 lenses
• Innovative “camera hammock” included
• A bit too bulky
• Straps are poorly designed
• Access to compartments is somewhat inconvenient

The exterior of the Case Logic Bryker is made from waterproof nylon that is resistant to most elements. A rigid frame also ensures that your gear will not be smashed or broken should the bag be subject to some blunt force. At 2 lbs, the weight of this bag is actually quite low as well.

The Case Logic Bryker is a bit beefy for some photographers. Its rigid design is great for resisting impacts and for when you need it to stand upright but makes for a cumbersome overall experience. A shoddy tripod strap leaves much to be desired as well.

Comfort is also an issue. When fully packed, many users experience noticeable discomfort due in part to the poorly designed shoulder straps. A waist or chest strap would’ve provided some respite but they are sorely missing. Despite these, we still think it’s the best cheap camera bag on the market.

Is the Case Logic Bryker for you?

Do you want a capable travel camera bag for as little money as possible? Then check out the Case Logic Bryker! This bag is built for photographers who want something durable that won’t break the bank or, for that matter, their gear. For these reasons, the Case Logic Bryker is one of the best budget camera bags that travellers can find!

Our team liked that this pack offered a different style of opening compared to others on the list. With the pack opening from the front rather than the back it offered a different way to access their gear and for some members they felt this was much more practical for their usage. They also loved the large external pockets and the fact that they were big enough to fit even larger accessories like flashes and hard drives inside and felt these features made it a budget camera bag.

12. Neewer 2:1 Camera Backpack Trolley Case

The Best Camera Bag for Air Travel

• Exterior: 20.9 x 14.2 x 10.6 inches / 53 x 36 x 27 cm
• Interior: 17.7 x 11.8 x 7.9 inches / 45 x 30 x 20 cm
• Without dividers: 9.3 pounds / 4.2 kilograms
• With dividers: 10.2 pounds / 4.6 kilogram

For professional photographers who travel often and need a bag that they can conveniently take on the plane with them, the Neewer 2 n1 Camera Backpack Trolley Case  is the best camera bag for air travel!

This sturdy bag is designed to meet most carry-on luggage standards, which means that you’ll always have it with you and that you’ll never have to risk checking it in. Its four sets of dual wheels also ensure effortless manoeuvring as they enable the bag to glide in between almost any obstacle.

The CADeN Camera Backpack Trolley Case can easily hold multiple DSLRs in addition to 6-8 lenses. Multiple pockets and extra compartments are also on hand to hold various camera accessories.

The CADeN Camera Backpack Trolley Case can stand up to both weather and invaders alike. An attachable rain cover will protect the bag during inclement weather. In addition, a theft-proof double-lock zipper system is in place to protect your gear.

• Meets standards for carry-on luggage
• Heaps of storage
• Very sturdy build
• Top heavy when fully loaded
• Bag tends to drift if not on level ground

The wheels of the CADeN Camera Backpack are very smooth and guiding this bag will be a breeze. Should the wheels become damaged, they can easily be replaced.

Note that the wheels can be a little too smooth sometimes as many photographers have reported that this bag has a tendency to float away when not arrested. There have also been reports of when being fully loaded (including with a laptop in the front), the bag can tend to topple.

Outside of the airports, true backpackers and wilderness hikers may find using this bag an impractical endeavour. At its core, the Think Tank Airport Roller Derby is best suited for lifestyle, product or wedding photographers who do most of their work in urban environments.

Looking for a specific laptop bag? Check out our rundown on the best travel laptop bags for more options.

Is the Neewer 2 in 1 Camera Backpack Trolley Case for you?

Are you a professional photographer who travels very often for work? Do you need a bag that you can take on the plane with you? Stress not as this is one of the best bags for airline travel! This reinforced roller bag is designed to fit in most overhead compartments and the smoothness of its wheels will ensure that you’ll get to where you’re going pronto.

Our team recognised from the beginning that this bag was a bit more niche than some others on the market but felt for the right person it was an ideal solution. For those looking to carry a substantial amount of gear as well as pretty much their entire editing set up (hard drives, laptop etc) then it’s the perfect way to keep everything protected and organised. The ability to carry the bag as a backpack was also a welcome addition to versatility.

13. Tenba BYOB 13

The Travel Camera Bag Insert

• Exterior: 14 x 10 x 6 inches / 35.6 x 25.4 x 15.2 cm
• Interior: 13 x 9 x 5 inches / 33 x 22.9 x 12.7 cm
• Weight: 1.3 pounds / 0.6 kilograms

Those looking for a conventional travel backpack with a camera compartment will be sorry to hear that not many exist. Thankfully though, Tenba has created an insert that can slide into almost any backpack and does a very good job of protecting your camera gear.

The Tenba BYOB 13 Camera Insert is, essentially, designed to mirror the interior of a classic camera backpack. It obviously lacks any sort of straps or method of carrying but this is totally acceptable because it’s meant to be packed into another larger bag. With the Tenba BYOB 13, your travel backpack is now totally equipped to carry your camera equipment.

The Tenba BYOB 13 is very tough and can take quite the beating on its own; when packed into a backpack, your expensive camera gear is very safe.

In terms of capacity, the Tenba BYOB 13 can carry a single camera body and 3-4 lenses, which is admittedly less than some of the other travel camera bags outlined on this list. Like most camera bags, the compartments of this insert can be reorganized to fit your needs.

• Turns your travel backpack into a travel camera bag
• Compact and very well protected
• Adjustable compartments plus extra pockets
• Not very practical if you plan to carry it alone
• Doesn’t hold as much as a dedicated camera backpack

There are several reasons to use a camera insert over a dedicated camera backpack. Many photographers have pointed out that camera bags can be quite awkward to wear because they’re designed with optimal protection in mind as opposed to comfort.

This decision is understandable but also irritating as, after 25+ lbs of gear, you really start to feel the weight.

With their extra straps and padding, outdoor and travel backpacks are much better equipped for heavier loads. Many backpackers will find that simply using their usual backpack and inserting the Tenba BYOB 13 Camera Insert will be easier on their bodies and feel much better.

Is the Tenba BYOB 13 for you?

Do you want to keep using your outdoor backpack and find a way to pack your camera gear as well? With extra durability and packability, the Tenba BYOB 13 Camera Insert is the best alternative to a DSLR travel camera bag. With it, photographers can convert just about any outdoor backpack into a safe haven for their camera gear.

Our team were big fans of this camera insert and loved how well it fit inside a plethora of other bags. As we mentioned with the leather messenger bag above, adding an insert like this can transform any bag into a great camera set-up. It’s especially ideal for those looking for hiking packs or something more specialised not usually seen as a camera backpack, with this you can really customise your set-up.

14. Manfrotto Aviator D1 Backpack

The Travel Camera Bag for Drones

• Capacity: 1 DJI Phantom drone, 1 DSLR camera, 3 lenses, 1 laptop, and additional accessories
• Exterior: 19.3 x 12.6 x 9.1 inches / 49 x 32 x 23 cm
• Interior: 18.1 x 11.4 x 5.9 inches / 46 x 29 x 15 cm
• Weight: 4.2 pounds / 1.9 kilograms

Photographers who often use drones when travelling or working will need a backpack specially engineered for their equipment. One of the best travel camera bags for drones is the Manfrotto Aviator D1 Backpack . This drone backpack, made with DJI Phantom equipment in mind, is very comfortable and easy to use.

The Manfrotto Aviator D1 is built from water-resistant materials that effectively protect your drone from the elements. At over 4 lbs, this bag may seem heavy but, thanks to its superb ergonomics, few users complain about discomfort.

Aside from the main compartment where the drone can be stored, there are multiple pockets and pouches that can store anything from extra batteries to a 16” laptop.

• Specifically designed for Phantom 3 Drone
• Very comfortable to wear
• 5 year warranty
• Tight fit for Phantom 4 Drone
• Compromised security when packed too tightly
• In practice, more room is needed for DSLR and lenses

In addition, a smaller top compartment was built into the bag to accommodate a DSLR camera plus one or two lenses. Some photographers complain that, unfortunately, this isn’t enough room though for a proper camera kit and that more is to be desired.

The Manfrotto Aviator D1 Backpack was designed specifically for the DJI Phantom and does a very good job of storing it.

The Phantom 3 fits snugly in the front pouch of the bag and there is additional room for drone lenses and accessories as well.

Many users have noted that when using a Phantom 4 though, things are a little too tight and breakages do occur. This problem is usually alleviated by creating extra space in the bag but at the expense of carrying a DSLR.

Is the Manfrotto Aviator D1 Backpack for you?

Are you a drone photographer in need of a specially built backpack? Do you want something that is easy to wear? Then look no further than the Manfrotto Aviator D1 Backpack! This comfortable backpack is great for those who use a DJI Phantom 3 (or Phantom 4 if you rearrange it a little) and is one of the best travel camera bags for drones available.

Our team were impressed by this bag made specifically for their drones and felt this pack made them feel super confident that their DJI was safe and well protected. Another feature they loved was the super padded hip belt and shoulder straps, it made taking their drones on pretty much any adventure mega comfortable.

15. Mahi Leather Vintage Camera Bag

The Best Leather Camera Bag

• Capacity: 13 L
• Dimensions: 15.7 x 12.6 x 3.9 inches / 40 x 32 x 10 cm
• Price: $203.50

In your search for the “Best Camera Bag,” the MAHI Camera Bag in Vintage Brown Leather emerges as an exquisite option for photographers at any skill level.

The bag features two side pockets with buckle closings, providing easy access and secure storage for your smaller accessories. A front pocket with a magnetic close adds extra space for quick-grab items. The interior boasts a removable padded compartment, ensuring your camera stays protected from bumps and scratches. Additionally, the two padded dividers allow for customization of the interior space, accommodating various camera sizes and additional lenses, ensuring everything stays in place and protected.

In summary, the MAHI Camera Bag in Vintage Brown Leather stands out as a top choice for photographers looking for a combination of style, durability, and functionality. Its thoughtful design ensures your camera and accessories are well-protected, while its timeless look ensures you’re doing it in style. Plus, the brand’s ethical commitment adds a layer of positive impact to the purchase.

• Very Stylish
• Made from exceptionally good materials
• It is kinda heavy
• Expensive…

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

A great camera bag for travel photographers will be defined by several features that will make or (literally) break your equipment. Photographers must consider aspects like material, size/weight, capacity, discreteness, security, and comfort in order to choose the right camera bag.

Below is a brief breakdown of each of these features and why they are important to the buying and shooting process.

Want to shoot full time? Read our insider’s guide on how to become a freelance photographer!

Material/Construction

If you travel a lot, your camera is going to be subject to the elements very often. Overexposure to the likes of weather, grime, and/or physical trauma can compromise your equipment and lead to failure or breakage.

This is why it is very important to get a sturdy travel camera bag made from high-quality and rugged materials. With better craftsmanship, your camera will be better protected from dangerous forces.

Canvas – and all of its varieties – is one of the most used materials in travel camera bags and for good reason: it’s durable, relatively waterproof, and cheap. However, note that cheap camera bags are not ideal for keeping expensive cameras in.

Many of the best travel camera bags in this list will have some canvas in some degree. Leather is also a good material that is used quite often in camera bags but makes sure that it’s real – the fake shit will degrade and fail much sooner than the authentic leather.

Some camera bag manufacturers are using newer, synthetic fabrics that offer optimal quality and protection. Note that if a bag has higher quality synthetic materials, then its price will usually be higher.

Protection/Durability

The inside of travel camera bags are usually – and should be – full of foam inserts that offer extra protection to the equipment inside.

A good travel camera bag will have lots of these barriers that can be rearranged to provide the proper housing for your camera kit. These padded dividers should be somewhat rigid, thick, and properly sized.

In addition to interior padding, your travel bag should have a number of pockets and compartments that should be sealed and in working order. If they are not properly constructed, then your camera will be susceptible to water and other harmful elements.

You’re obviously going to need a camera bag that is big enough to house all of your gear.

Each type of travel camera bag is going to be appropriately sized for a certain amount of equipment. Smaller messenger bags will be able to accommodate a small mirrorless or compact camera with an extra lens or two while larger camera backpacks will be better suited for full-frame DSLRs and a plethora of lenses.

Figure out how much camera equipment you will need to carry and then decide on how big of a bag you will need. Also, don’t take for granted how to pack the bag either.

Travel photographers will most likely have their gear on their person for most of the day so it’s very important to consider how comfortable a travel camera bag will be.

If you’re just planning on bringing a small camera with an equally diminutive lens or two, then a messenger bag will feel very natural.

Start adding more lenses and a larger camera body though and straps begin to cut into your shoulders – a more spacious and ergonomic backpack will probably feel better.

Being able to access your equipment in a comfortable way is also worth considering. Are you going to have to take your bag off and reach into it every time you want to take a photo? That may get tedious.

Can you get away with using a holster or small messenger bag? Being able to reach for a travel camera that is near the front of your body will feel much better.

Discreteness

Cameras are thieves’ favourite targets so it’s imperative that you find a bag that will ward away not only the elements but human perpetrators as well.

Many camera bags will come with latches, locking zippers and other deterrents that will hamper robbers’ attempts at stealing your gear. Should an attacker threaten you, good sturdy construction – like the kind mentioned in the materials section – will prevent them from tearing or cutting your bag and getting to the inner contents.

Some camera bags that are built from luxurious materials just scream “steal me” as well. Buying a bag that is relatively simple and inconspicuous looking will attract less attention from possible assailants. Being smart when travelling and avoiding theft in the first place is the best way to prevent it.

Customisability

Lots of camera bags will have the ability to accommodate additional accessories. These additions may be possible thanks to extra straps, adjustable interiors, special adapters, and/or more found on the bag. The more options you have when it comes to being able to add accessories, the more that you’ll be able to pack and the better prepared your bag will be. You’ll definitely want a bag with a special strap for a travel tripod

Keep in mind how much you can change your travel camera bag when investing in one.

Like the specialized tools that they hold, a travel camera bag is only effective if it’s understandable and intuitive. Even if you have a great bag with amazing capacity and protection, it’s going to be a hellish experience if it takes too long or too much effort to get into the bag. You must take into consideration how easy it is to use a travel camera bag before buying one.

Look for multiple entry points and features, like layout design, that allows for quick and easy access to your gear. Also take note of certain incidentals, like a zipper and buckle efficiency, which can play a big part in accessing the bag despite their perceived insignificance. Learn how to use your camera bag to get the most out of it.

Size/Weight

Size and weight play an important part in determining what constitutes a good travel camera bag. Depending on the quality of the design and materials, a bag may or not be too heavy or use space efficiently, and you also might want to consider if it’s carry-on compliant . No one wants to carry around a bag that is unnecessarily cumbersome or wastes space.

Weight is influenced by the amount and type of materials used. Certain materials mentioned prior, like canvas or leather, may weigh more, but they offer good protection and, if used intelligently, can contribute less to overall mass. If a bag is designed poorly and has a lot of superfluous materials,  its weight can increase for no good reason.

Size, like weight, comes down to whether or not the bag was designed well or not. Again, if there are a lot of extra materials used, the size is going to increase. On the other hand, if every little fabric is used properly and the structure is sound, the bag is going to be more compact and still offer good protection.

To test these packs, we got hold of them and gave them a good and proper run for their money and did that over a decent enough period of time to get to know them. We gave them to various members of the team so we could get different options and experiences.

Packability

When we test backpacks out our main points are awarded for packability, but when it comes to camera bags, there’s a bit more to it than just throwing in your gear willy-nilly!

With these bags, we’ve got to consider how well they fit in your camera, lenses and other accessories that come with photography. How well do they protect them, are they accessible when needed and do they allow you to bring along a jacket or other items and how effectively can these be kept separate?

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

If a pack is overly heavy or awkward to carry then taking it along on trips becomes uncomfortable. We all know that carrying a lot of camera gear can be pretty weighty at times. So we were looking for backpacks that were firstly, light to begin with and secondly, distributed the weight of your gear well and did it with comfort.

Believe me, on this, I have had more than my fair share of backpacks that became uncomfortable once I had my camera, lenses and tripod attached that it took much of the fun out of my passion for photography!

As such, we awarded full marks for packs that minimise weight and maximum carry comfort.

Functionality

In order to test out how well a pack fulfilled the primary purpose we used it for this purpose!

So of course, when it came to camera bags we tested them out by seeing what different cameras and lenses they could fit in and how many. How well each bag protected our gear and also the ways in which we could access our gear when needed. Does the bag have a side access door or back opening for example?

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well, those people are fools because they forget that photography is all about how something looks… so surely we want our packs to look great too!

As such we also awarded points for how sexy a pack looks. 

Durability and Weatherproofing

Ideally, in order to really test out how durable a backpack is we would drop it from a plane and then run over it. But I’ve put my pride and joy (my camera) inside so I am afraid that’s not going to happen!!

Instead, we were a bit more pragmatic and inspected the materials the bags were made from, the build quality and craftsmanship of each one and paid particular attention to seam sewing, smoothness of the zips and other areas of each bag which might be more likely to break.

Of course, testing out how waterproof a pack is simply a case of pouring a litre of water over it – any packs caught leaking, were promptly banned entirely from inclusion in our round-ups. Obviously, I took out my gear before… just in case!

Still, have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the best camera backpack?

We rank the award-winning WANDRD PRVKE 31 as one of the best camera bags on the market. Another favourite is the Nomatic Mckinnon 35L Camera Bag .

What does a good camera bag need?

The main purpose of a camera bag is to keep your equipment safe while moving through different locations. It needs to offer good protection and the ideal volume for your accessories.

Are there any budget-friendly camera bags?

The Case Logic SLRC-206 camera bag is one of the cheapest on the market. Yet, it still offers high quality and great value.

What is the best camera bag for professional photographers?

The Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW offers great protection of your gear, as well as plenty of space to store additional accessories that only professional photographers need.

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Final Thoughts on the Best Camera Bag for Travel

Should you get caught in a sticky situation, you wouldn’t want to put your valuable camera gear at risk. So hopefully you’ve looked through this list of camera backpacks and found the one for you!

You wouldn’t travel to a foreign country without the proper insurance , right? Then why would put your camera kit at risk without the appropriate protection?! Pick out the best travel camera bag for your style of shooting and invest in protection that suits your needs.

Each photographer will find merit in each bag. Those who use smaller kits may find a messenger bag, like the Think Tank Retrospective 30, more suitable.

Conversely, wilderness backpackers or digital nomads may not want to invest in a full-fledged camera backpack so the best bet is they end up buying an insert, like the Tenba BYOB 13. There really is a travel camera bag for everyone out there.

Figure out your needs and choose a bag accordingly.

With this guide, you have the beginnings of understanding what is best for your gear. There are so many camera bags, so study it well and then waste no time in finding the best camera bag for your travel needs! You’ll be glad that you took camera bags seriously.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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21 Comments

Hi there! So my name is Brandon and I’m trying to find the backpack the guy is wearing in the photo in the beginning of this page. It seems to fit the necessary requirements I’m looking for in a travel backpack; however, I can’t seem to find it online. If you could help point me in the right direction I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you!

If you are looking for the best camera pack for travel and hiking, You should consider a pack from Atlas Packs. I’ve been searching for the perfect bag for years and finally found one that perfectly suits my needs. The packs are more like technical hiking packs designed to carry camera gear than a camera pack not well set up for wilderness use. As my car-carry camera bag, I have a Billingham, which is simply amazing (and aesthetically beautiful). It’s just not great to carry my gear in over my shoulder all day long.

Indeed Atlas makes good backpacks, but in our opinion the Wandrd Prvke 31 or the Nomatic Camera Bag are where it’s at. Here are the links if you want to check them out: Nomatic Camera Bag Wandrd Prvke 31

I’ve tended to get a ~50USD small shoulder bag like a Vanguard Ziin or LowePro Andventura TLZ and put that inside my main backpack as I often don’t have space for a dedicated camera backpack. To save money, that might be an option. My travel is often backpacking or motorcycle travel, so I find it works well for that. It also protects the camera when you’re walking around and stops it potentially being a target as you walk around.

This is a bit confusing., and I’m struggling with the rankings here….

No.1 is the WANDRD PRVKE 31l, but it is described as “one of the best”: “The WANDRD PRVKE 31 is one of the best camera bags out there due to its awesome design, excellent protectiveness, and great customizability.”

No.2, the LowePro ProTactic 40 AW is actually described as the best: “Because of its awesome customizability, competitive price point, and superlatively durable construction, the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW is the best overall travel camera bag on this list!”

No.3, the Peak Design, is actually described as the 2nd best: “The Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L is our second choice for the best overall camera bag for travel.”

Please help clarify?

Hey Andrmu,

I can definitely see how the wording of the article can be confusing. I’ve gone ahead and made some edits that will hopefully clear things up 🙂

It wasn’t confusing. It was simply directly conflicting your presented order. You obviously previously had the LowePro as your favourite, and the PD is your 2nd. But then Wandrd apparently jumped ahead of them. Did they pay you?

I suppose I have stumbled across the wrong site – the best budget bag on theBROKEbackpacker is $75? I need to head over to the DestituteBackpacker, then.

You could go out and buy a $15 Jansport backpack if you wanted and put your camera in that. At that point, I think you could technically call this a “budget camera bag.”

I wouldn’t advise this though because then you’d be putting the camera at risk for breaking. If you want a bag that will offer basic protection and doesn’t skimp too much usability, then $75 is a reasonable amount.

Hello Frank

The adage, “Buy cheap, Pay twice” is generally true in having to replace at least twice during the lifetime of a quality camera bag: including the faff of going to buy a replacement during that period. I take the view that my Sony A7 III and the 3 GMaster lenses (plus assorted storage media / supporting equipment) in my camera bag is valued at over £10k.

Yes, you can be insured but consider the faff in completing the myriad of paperwork, being without equipment…for how long in repair! Having spent large sums of money on camera equipment, it seem prudent (foolish not) to protect that valuable equipment to the fullest by ‘investing’ in a good / reasonably priced camera bag.

I read reviews and reader feedback as guidance but it is also my final choice. I eventually bought the ProTactic 450 AW, it was reasonably priced, gives good protection, qualifies as carry-on baggage (Africa twice, Europe many times and the USA) and is of good quality.

Enjoy your visit to DestituteBackpacker :-)))

Does anyone know what the bag is in the first picture with the guy in the creek? I’d love to check that one out!

I have a friend who really loves photography and I used to go with him on hikes and such which is what also got me into photography just recently. I’m looking to buy my first bag and was searching for reviews. This kind of review really helps me a lot. Personally I’d prefer backpack types as I’m most comfortable with them. Also I’d go with water proof camera bags regardless if it has rain cover or not cause my friend often had troubles with water getting inside his bag. Really nice review.

Hi, I’m trying to decide between the ProTactic 450 AW II and the smaller 350 AW II. I run a mirrorless setup (G85) with 2 small lenses, and a Mavic Air, with a small smartphone gimbal. Would you have any advice between the two bags? Thanks!

My initial reaction is you’ll want to go with the larger camera bag because that sounds like quite a bit of equipment. But first I suggest that you try to find the two bags at a local shop and to test them out for yourself.

Just a quick update, after trying both out at a local store, I went with the smaller ProTactic BP350 AWII. It fits my main body (Lumix G85), 3 – 4 lenses, my Mavic Air setup as well as a smartphone gimbal and Rode VideoMicro. The fit is on the tighter side, but the larger sibling was too large for my everyday use and travel. Following the 80/20 rule, the smaller of the two covers my needs a majority of the time.

Great information. I am a photographer and i am use canon 5d mark IV with 70-200mm, 85mm lens. I have no camera bag. I am searching on google which bags are best and useful. I got your blog and i am really with your blog. You share very useful info for me. Thanks!

I’m looking to buy a replacement backpack camera bag – medium size, carry-on flight luggage – and so the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW looks appealing.

However, as I’m going to dusty African deserts in the near future I need waterproof / dust-proof pockets for all the accessories such as digital stager media. Additionally, whenever I see adverts for photographic backpacks they rarely show these, and they also show lenses without covers on. appearing to fit perfectly in-between the velcro dividers – I feel that there isn’t enough protection: wouldn’t these easily get covered in sand / dust? I rarely carry my lenses in this way preferring additional (safety) pouches – though I guess these aren’t dust proof either.

It would be nice to see how the selected bags cover off keeping lenses and accessories safe from these natural threats.

Totally understand your predicament. Indeed, lots of reviews talk more about how bags protect gear instead of showing it. Though I can’t literally show you how well these do, I can try to paint a picture at least.

When it comes to dust and sand, I find that the best safeguard is just diligence. I’ve been to the Namib Desert, the Outback, Iceland, and countless other places that are just full of grit and all I can say is that you just have to clean; a lot.

Several bags (like the WANDRD PRVKE 31) do have sealed zippers but, at the end of the day, your gear is going to be exposed to the dirt no matter what. Best to just realize this and then do your best to clean it off at the end of the day. If your gear is used and packed away properly, removing sand will be less of an issue I think.

I hope that your trip goes well. If you have any further questions, please reach out.

One issue with the 400AW as a travel bag is that is larger than the airline carry on limits.

That is a valid point – if you need a carry on, that isn’t the logical choice.

Do you remember which airline would not allow this bag as a carry-on? Each company has different restrictions and I’ve heard very little in the way of the AW450 not actually being allowed.

Also, are we talking about the 400AW or the 450AW?

Cheers, Ralph

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The 20 Best Camera Bags for Travel in 2024

Amar Hussain

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Different Camera Bag Styles

Things to consider with a camera bag, 1. best for security-conscious travelers, 2. best for those who like to keep it low-key, 3. best for retro fans, 4. for women who want low-key camera storage, 1. best for discreet all-around protection, 2. for carrying drones or cameras, 3. best for dji phantom and camera combinations, 4. best for photographers with a lot of gear, 5. the super-accessible camera backpack, 6. best for flexibility and size, 7. best for low-price protection, 8. best for professionals, 1. best for hands-free photography, 2. best for budget-friendly camera storage, 3. best for photographers on the move, 4. best for cycling and hiking, for those who want function over fashion, for professionals who need a lot of gear, 1. best for keeping your camera safe in any bag, 2. best for lightweight, budget protection, final thoughts.

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Whether you take pictures for business or pleasure, ensuring that your much-loved and expensive collection of cameras, drones, lenses, and other items are well-protected on the road is key to capturing those impressive images every time.

However you choose to travel, keep your camera safe using specially-designed camera bags, backpacks, holsters, slings, and inserts that will ensure everything is protected from dents, knocks, damage, and even the elements.

Luckily, there are camera bags that suit every possible travel style. Whether you need to take a ton of gear with you or are just looking for something simple and protective, there are plenty of different types and sizes of bags available. Here are some of the most popular:

• Pouches — Every time you buy a camera, you will probably get a free pouch with it. It’ll offer very basic protection, but you can upgrade to a more secure one to protect your investment.
• Insert — If you don’t want to use a special camera backpack, a padded insert will keep your gear safe and can be hidden away in any other bag you already use.
• Holsters — These are designed to keep your camera and a few accessories safe. You can usually find one that fits your make and model exactly. These are a useful addition to your kit that can fit inside your suitcase , travel bag, or other larger backpack.
• Waist Belts — These may not be the coolest way to carry your camera around, but they are one of the most practical. Keep your camera safe and your hands-free with a padded pouch that sits snugly around your waist.
• Shoulder Bags — Also known as messengers bags, these are the most popular types of camera bags available. Roomy enough to carry everything you need for a long day’s shooting, these bags have a variety of compartments that can house your camera, drone, charger, lenses, SD cards, light meter, and other accessories.
• Backpacks — If you need to take your computer with you, a backpack is a great way to carry not only your DLSR and a variety of lenses and accessories, but also your tablet or laptop . With a separate padded compartment and several additional places to stow your camera and associated paraphernalia, a backpack looks cool and is definitely practical.

Size and Capacity

The bag you choose will need to be roomy enough to fit your camera, lenses, charger, spare batteries, and any other accessories you need to capture epic images. The amount of supporting gear you want to carry will pretty much dictate the size of the bag you need.

Even the smallest of camera bags will need space to carry SD cards, batteries, and chargers (otherwise there is no point in carrying it!). Before you commit to an expensive, hip-looking camera sling, write out a list of everything you want to take with you, and find something that can comfortably hold all your items without damaging delicate and expensive equipment.

Hot Tip: Also take into consideration that your camera gear collection may grow further down the line! Don’t choose a bag that can barely fit what you’ve got — leave room for future options, too.

Material and Durability

If you like to take pictures, chances are you don’t limit yourself to just shooting indoors. Weather conditions are a constant consideration for photographers, and ensuring your camera equipment remains safe and dry is of paramount importance.

Most camera bags are made from strong, hi-tech materials like ballistic nylon that offer water resistance and protection from harsh temperatures and conditions. If you don’t usually have to worry about poor weather — or simply prefer an old-school vibe — traditional canvas bags are hard-wearing and cool-looking, and will probably be waterproof enough to withstand the occasional downpour.

Photographers don’t sit still for long. Chasing that perfect picture will likely involve some car, bus, or even air travel. You might even need to get yourself across vast, difficult terrains to find the perfect spot to shoot. With this in mind, buying a bag that is hard to carry or uncomfortable to wear is a definite no-no!

Your bag should offer some levels of adjustability so it will be comfortable to carry for long periods of time. If you need to keep your hands free, or won’t be working in a location where you want to put your bag down, then backpacks, slings, or belt pouches will work better for you.

Ease of Use and Access

If you need super-fast access to your camera, how quickly you can grab it will be massively important. Many dedicated camera bags offer side compartments for fast access, and materials like Velcro mean you can reach in and get in as soon as you need it.

Shoulder bags and messenger bags have a definite advantage over other types of camera bags as they offer the easiest access. A waist belt could also be a good option since you will have your hands free to point and shoot at the exact moment you need to.

Customization

Most high-end camera bags offer some level of customization, meaning that you can make them more comfortable to carry as well as transforming them into the perfect space for all your supplies. On the outside, straps can be used over your shoulders or cross-body, while internal compartments can be rearranged to fit your needs.

The useable space in a fit-for-purpose camera bag will be fully adjustable. Many use Velcro squares attached to the top or bottom of the bag that can be resized to keep your kit safe and sound at all times. Some bags will even let you remove the camera storage insert entirely if you need to transfer it for use in another larger bag.

You can buy internal organizers that are designed to fit a variety of bags. These dividers are important to ensure you can accommodate a variety of lens kits, as you may need to use different size lenses for different shots.

Security and Discreetness

Sometimes it pays to be discreet, and in certain locations having a bag that screams “look at my expensive camera equipment” probably isn’t a good idea. Cameras are prime real estate for would-be thieves, and your bag will need to protect your gear from human threats as well as the elements.

It will need to have secure, sturdy zippers and fastenings, and should be easy to lock up if you need to. Your bag should also be simple and inconspicuous on the outside to prevent it from being a beacon to would-be criminals.

The 4 Best Camera Shoulder Bags for Travel

If you’re looking for the ultimate bag to protect your camera and equipment that’s lightweight and durable enough to take everywhere, check out some of these beauties:

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS200 Econyl Crossbody

Weight: 1.35 pounds

Overall Dimensions : 12.6 x 10.6 x 3.5 inches

The Metrosafe LS200 shoulder bag from Pacsafe is not only comfortable and practical — it is also designed to protect your gear from both damage and theft . Its fabric has a steel mesh embedded into it to make it slash-proof and theft-resistant.

Designed to house a DSLR camera, this bag includes 2 lockable, zippered compartments; a suspended and padded interior tablet sleeve, 2 interior zippered pockets, 2 side pockets for water bottles, and a key clip. It can be converted into a backpack, as well. It has an RFID-blocking pocket. It’s made from water-resistant recycled ocean plastic.

What We Like

• Tablet sleeve is suspended so it doesn’t hit the floor when you put the bag down

What We Don’t Like

• Too small for larger DLSRs and lenses.

Peak Design Everyday Messenger 13L

Weight: 2.43 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 16.14 x 6.69 x 11.81 inches

The Everyday Messenger from Peak Design has plenty of interior space to carry everything you need on your next shoot. A rigid multi-panel design means the bag keeps its shape regardless of how much you shoehorn into it.

Complete with dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves, you can also carry a full-frame DSLR with up to 3 additional lenses and accessories. There is a built-in tripod carry feature that works with both travel and full-size models  that has a silicone band to keep the legs together while carrying.

Good-looking yet discrete, this camera bag is made from a weatherproof waxed exterior, and it features high-density padding as well as weatherproof zippers. On the inside, the origami-inspired FlexFold dividers let you alter the internal storage to custom fit your requirements.

The unique MagLatch closure system doesn’t require a traditional lock (and is easy to open with 1 hand for fast access to your camera), and the sleek seatbelt-style straps make it incredibly comfortable to carry around with you.

Stylish, low-key, and infinitely practical, the Everyday Messenger Bag from Peak Design is a good choice for those who take their photography seriously.

• Padded laptop sleeve accommodating a 13-inch laptop
• Bag doesn’t stand up on its own

Kattee Leather Canvas Camera Bag Vintage DSLR SLR Messenger Shoulder Bag

Weight: 2.76 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 14.1 x 12.2 x 4.7 inches

This retro take on the modern-day camera bag is a stunning canvas shoulder bag that will comfortably house your DSLR camera and accessories for your next adventure . It is especially suitable for photojournalists and sports photographers — or anyone with an interest in the great outdoors paired with the charm of vintage fashion.

The bag itself can be used as a stand-alone leisure bag, too, giving you endless travel possibilities. As a camera bag, it offers 2 adjustable padded dividers for interior flexibility and customization. A built-in microfiber cloth will help protect your camera’s screen from scratches, and the numerous internal pockets will keep your accessories safe.

On the outside, brass buckles, cowhide fasteners, and metal snap buttons look amazing, and the big lid and wide strap give easy access to your camera equipment (it’s comfortable to carry, too).

• Can be used as a camera or messenger bag
• No top handle to pick up quickly

MOSISO Camera Case Crossbody Shoulder Messenger Bag

Weight: 1.43 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 11.81 x 7.87 x 9.84 inches

This feminine option is designed to look more like a regular handbag than a hardcore camera bag . Made from gorgeous pink synthetic leather, this bag will comfortably house a standard-size DSLR camera and 2-3 lenses alongside other essentials, including your cell phone and keys.

The main compartment has 3 removable modular inserts so you can divide it as needed, with the whole interior covered in soft foam. A hidden anti-theft zippered pocket can safely secure a phone or wallet. There’s also a front zippered pocket for frequently used items.

The bag is made from durable canvas and faux leather, and comes with a waterproof rain cover. A trolley sleeve makes it easy to carry at the airport.

• Stylish and practical
• Can be tricky to place the dividers inside the bag

The 8 Best Camera Backpacks for Travel

Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L

Weight: 4.86 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 14.2 x 7.8 x 20.5 inches

This 30-liter backpack has been designed with the needs of photographers like you in mind. With its chic modern look and clean aesthetic, this is a stunning camera bag designed to keep your gear safe while you travel.

Totally adaptable, this backpack offers easy accessibility, expandability, and organization. Need to grab your camera in a hurry? No problem — the patented MagLatch provides lightning-fast top access, with dual side-loading via 2 weatherproof side zips.

Inside the main compartment, the FlexFold dividers can be custom fitted to keep your drone, camera, lenses, and other important gear safe as you travel (there is also a dedicated 15-inch padded laptop pocket). Made from compression-molded, high-density EVA foam dividers, your expensive equipment will be protected against knocks, dents, and other damage.

This backpack is pricey, but it’s also made from durable nylon with a double PU-coated finish — and we think it’s worth every penny . With no fancy logo and a sleek minimalist design, this is a discreet but cleverly designed camera bag that will keep your gear safe without drawing too much attention to it.

• Side pockets for water bottles or tripods
• Hip belt must be purchased separately

Manfrotto Advanced² Befree Camera Gear Backpack

Weight: 2.86 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 10.63 x 6.7 x 17.32 inches

This discreet yet well-equipped camera backpack is designed to comfortably hold all the gear you need, including DSLR cameras and drones — but it’s still compact enough to comply with standard airline carry-on luggage size regulations . Winner!

With an external tripod strap and secure side pockets, you really can use this backpack for a variety of different shots and locations. Made from a durable and strong synthetic fabric, this backpack will protect your kit from the elements, and the new design includes rear access.

On the inside, the dividers offer custom storage solutions for your camera and accessories. There is even the option to fold them out of the way or pull them out completely. This modular protection system gives you complete control over the internal layout of the backpack and can be tailored to fit your needs.

The laptop compartment will hold up to a 15-inch laptop and 9.7-inch tablet, and the main camera compartment can accommodate a medium-level DSLR with 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached (with space for 6 additional lenses). A great choice for the photographer who takes everything with them!

• Modular dividers to suit your gear
• Backpack straps could be more padded

Manfrotto MB BP-D1 DJI Professional Drone Backpack

Weight: 4.18 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 13.4 x 9 x 22 inches

This impressive-looking backpack is perfect for carrying all of your drone gear with you . Designed to fit the DJI Phantom (or similarly-sized drones), this backpack takes the strain out of carrying the drone itself, as well as all the paraphernalia you need to fly and film on the road.

Its interior compartments offer flexible storage, and the side compartment will safely house your iPad and 17-inch laptop so you can edit your footage as you travel. There is a dedicated storage space for those all-important batteries, meaning you can stay airborne for longer, and useful pockets for keeping your cables, chargers, and mounts close at hand.

Because this bag is designed specifically with drones in mind, you can have your quadcopter with mounted propellers inside the pack, while the external tripod hook secures your tripod to the outside. The top compartment is the perfect size and shape to hold your DSLR and attached lens, keeping your camera safe in the ultra-protective pouch that fits closely around your drone and your gear.

If you use your drone regularly, a bag like this is a must-have that allows you to keep everything you need for your next drone shoot safe and sound, all in 1 easy-to-access backpack.

• Comfortable to wear hiking
• Bottom of the bag needs more padding

Lowepro Pro Trekker BP 550 AW II 40L Camera Backpack

Weight: 9.02 pounds

Overall Dimensions : 14.13 x 19.41 x 22.56 inches

This expedition backpack is designed to house your camera, lenses, and other accessories safely while you travel on location. With 40 liters of capacity, it’s big enough to fit a DSLR with an attached lens and multiple lenses and accessories, and more. You will never have to worry about taking extra baggage with you again !

Cleverly designed to maximize both the internal and external space, the patent-pending MaxFit system lets you customize the internal dividers to suit your gear, and a tripod or monopod can be cinched to the outside of the backpack for easy transportation.

You can use the lined front pocket for storing phone and ID, and the removable lid converts into a carry-on backpack to store in the overhead bin.

• Removable lid can convert into a overhead-bin backpack
• Very heavy for a backpack

WANDRD PRVKE Lite Photography Bag

Weight: 2.42 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 15.75 x 10.83 x 5.39 inches

This award-winning, innovative backpack is perfect for taking your camera and accessories wherever you’re headed. With sleek, minimalist styling on the outside and a ton of useable space on the inside, this rucksack is incredibly versatile.

Made from durable and water-resistant tarpaulin and nylon dobby, this is an investment that will last you for many years to come . The pack offers easy access to your gear, with enough space to house your camera and lenses in a removable storage cube that can be configured to suit your individual equipment.

Perfect for international travel, this PRVKE bag has a dedicated compartment for your passport that sits flat against your back, as well as a laptop sleeve that makes it easy to breeze through airport security . If you don’t want to take your camera but still want to use your awesome new backpack, simply remove the storage cubes, pack, and go!

• Great-sized carry-on bag
• No front padding to protect your gear when opening the back compartment

Think Tank Photo Airport Accelerator Camera Backpack

Weight: 4.19 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 14 x 9 x 20.5 inches

This backpack is large enough to carry a mountain of gear, yet still compact enough to meet most carry-on luggage size requirements. designed to house 2 gripped DSLRs with an attached 500mm lens, it can also carry a 17-inch laptop, a 10-inch tablet, and another 600mm lens.

The dedicated laptop compartment is padded to protect your equipment, and the inside space is designed with flexibility in mind. A variety of mesh interior pockets make carrying your cables, chargers, batteries, and memory cards super simple, and the tripod/monopod mounting system means you’ll be ready to shoot from the moment you arrive.

This backpack is also designed for comfort. The contoured adjustable harness with lumbar support and height-adjustable sternum straps make it easy to find the right fit to suit your dimensions. With handles on 3 sides, it’s also incredibly easy to move the pack around when you’re not wearing it.

The Think Tank Photo Airport Accelerator backpack also comes with a seam-sealed rain cover to make sure you’re ready to shoot, whatever the weather.

• Padded compartment for a 17-inch laptop
• Could do with some wheels as an optional way to transport

AmazonBasics Backpack for DSLR Cameras and Accessories

Weight: 1.96 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 11.75 x 8.75 x 14.5 inches

A great camera vessel from the AmazonBasics range, this backpack is the perfect fit for DSLR cameras and accessories. It has plenty of room for your camera, lenses, cables, chargers, batteries, and all the other equipment that you need to capture epic images on the go.

The main internal compartment is lined with fabric-covered foam, and you can use the dividers to reconfigure it to your needs. On the outside, you’ll find 2 side pockets with flaps that are great for keeping your keys, cell phone, and wallet safe, plus 2 large zippered pockets for your manuals, notebooks, and other documents.

Offering a lot of bag for a very low price , this AmazonBasics backpack comes with heavily padded shoulder straps and wide, adjustable waist and chest straps — all of which help make the backpack comfortable to wear, even when weighed down with all your gear.

Made from durable synthetic material, this bargain backpack is ready to handle even the toughest of assignments for both professional and amateur photographers.

• Lots of small pockets for keeping organized
• Straps are a bit small for larger people

Thule Covert DSLR Rolltop Backpack

Weight: 4.97 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 17.7 x 7.9 x 21.3 inches

This premium roll-top backpack is cleverly designed, well-made, and beautiful for the perfect way to carry your camera equipment with you everywhere. With enough internal space to comfortably house a DSLR body with an attached ultra-wide-angle lens plus a DJI Mavic Pro, everything you need to handle any shooting location can be kept close at all times.

Inside the backpack, the SafeZone removable camera pod system offers customizable storage space with a dual-density padded bottom. The divider system is designed to fold around every piece of gear, ensuring that your entire kit is kept safe. There are also 2 dedicated protective compartments that can comfortably fit a 15-inch MacBook Pro plus an iPad (or other 10-inch tablets).

But that’s not all: front pockets provide plenty of organization and quick-stash storage for items you need quickly, like your passport, keys, wallet, or important documents. And the clever side pockets offer easy access to your camera and drone gear to ensure you never miss a shot.

• Handy side-loading compartments to use as a sling or backpack
• Too large to use as a carry-on for some airlines

The 4 Best Camera Holster Bags for Travel

Case Logic DCB-306 SLR Camera Holster

Weight: 12 pounds

Overall Dimensions : 8.4 x 8.0 x 5.5 inches

If you want to safely store and transport your DSLR and selected accessories with ease, this compact holster from Case Logic offers everything you need to keep your gear protected. The well-padded main compartment will protect your camera and the zippered lid allows you easy but discrete access.

This bag is designed to hold a standard DSLR and lens and the padded bottom will ensure it’s safe from damage, even when setting it down. Carry your Case Logic Camera Holster with the padded top handle or wear it with the removable shoulder strap.

For easy access, the lid unzips away from the wearer and has a convenient zip pocket underneath for a lens cap, battery, or other small items. Zippered side pockets provide additional storage capacity.

• Sturdy base to stand up unsupported
• Won’t accommodate larger zoom lenses

AmazonBasics Holster Camera Case for DSLR Cameras

Weight: 0.88 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 6.9 x 6.3 x 9.0 inches

This AmazonBasics holster case is sleek, easy to use, and just right for budget-friendly, hands-free convenience. The holster will comfortably carry most DSLR cameras with a zoom lens attached (up to 110 millimeters), and dual adjustable Velcro straps suspend the camera securely in place for superior impact protection.

Despite the low price, this holster is big on storage and practicality . The efficient design offers extra storage space without creating any unnecessary bulk: 3 exterior zipper pockets offer just enough room for batteries, a lens-cleaning cloth, and other small items, while 2 dedicated slots in the front pocket can safely store your memory cards.

Made from quality weather-resistant material, the AmazonBasics holster has a clever waterproof wrap-around base that provides a strong barrier against bumps, too. It also helps keep the case upright, so you can reach in and grab your camera from the main compartment.

If you don’t need all the bells and whistles — and aren’t worried about logo snobbery — this is a great little camera holster for a fantastic low price.

• Waterproof base protects the camera from moisture
• Plastic clips for the straps are not that durable

USA Gear SLR Camera Holster

Weight: 10.1 ounces

Overall Dimensions : 8 x 7.25 x 6 inches

This SLR holster is tough and designed to keep pace with all your photography needs. With a durable neoprene exterior, your gear will be protected against the elements, and for those really rainy days, this bag comes with a waterproof cover.

A soft, padded interior will keep your camera safe, and the LCD screen will be protected against scratches. With a variety of zippered compartments inside, you’ll always have somewhere to stash your memory cards, batteries, power cords, and other accessories.

Compatible with most SLR cameras and a single zoom lens attachment, this holster can comfortably carry the Canon EOS Rebel T6/T6i/SL2 or Nikon D3400/D3500. Stylish and cleverly designed, this SLR camera case has professional-quality interiors that will keep your camera safe and sound wherever you are.

• Comes in a variety of colors and designs
• Zippered exterior pockets would be better

Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L

Weight: 1.21 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 7.01 x 0.39 x 9.72 inches

This lightweight and extremely versatile sling can be used for carrying your camera, drone, or other equipment around on a daily basis. It’s compact but has tons of room and plenty of padding to keep your gear safe — letting you keep your hands free for hiking, cycling, or other outdoor activities.

You can wear the Peak Design Everyday Sling as a body sling or a waist bag , offering even more versatility from this 6-liter camera bag. The internal space is perfect for housing a variety of equipment, including a mirrorless camera plus 1 or 2 lenses, a DJI Mavic or Spark drone and controller with batteries and charger, or even a full-frame DSLR and lens.

A variety of internal pockets can be used to keep your cables, chargers, memory cards, and other necessities safe, too. The 2 dividers allow for customized configurations, so you can stack and organize your gear exactly the way you want.

Made from reinforced 400D double poly-coated, DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell, this small but practical sling is the perfect solution for those who want fast access to their camera equipment without being weighed down by bulky bags or heavy luggage.

• Adjustable strap to use as a sling or fanny pack
• Too small for many medium- or large-size DLSRs

The Best Camera Beltpack for Travel

Lowepro Inverse 200 AW Camera Beltpack

Weight: 2.12 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 8.6 x 12.9 x 8.8 inches

This camera belt pack is cute but highly capable. With enough space to comfortably house a pro DSLR with a medium zoom lens attached and 2 extra lenses (or a 70-200mm lens attached in a horizontal position plus an extra lens), you’ll never be without anything you need.

Made from high-quality material with a patented all-weather cover, the 3D contoured design offers an adjustable lumbar belt to help evenly distribute weight . Not only will you find this belt pack incredibly comfortable, but your camera will be snug and safe as well.

Internal locking straps help to secure your kit, and memory card pockets on the inside offer convenient access to all the extra memory you need. There is also a front compression system with a zippered mesh pocket perfect for cable adapters, small accessories, and personal items.

Carrying your camera on your hips allows for easy access when you need it most — and the quick-access top on this bag means you’ll be ready to shoot in an instant.

• Can be worn as a waist bag or shoulder bag
• Sits quite low when packed full

The Best Camera Duffel Bag for Travel

Ultimaxx Large Water Resistant Gadget Bag

Weight: 2.05 pounds

Overall Dimensions : 17.75 x 8.5 x 7.75 inches

This brilliant travel bag offers you all the practicality of a duffel with the advanced functionality of a well-executed camera bag . You’ll have easy access to a large main compartment that can be organized to suit your gear using customizable padded dividers.

It’s the perfect size to fit in most airline overhead compartments, and its lie-flat packing design means it can be packed like a suitcase. There are exterior compartments on the sides to store the items you need quickly. Because of the amount of flexibility on the inside, you can carry your DSLR camera (or even your drone) alongside some personal belongings without the need for any other bag as you travel. A removable shoulder strap and hand straps let you carry it 2 ways as a duffel bag.

• Customizable dividers to organize your equipment
• No backpacking straps

The 2 Best Camera Inserts for Travel

Tenba BYOB 10 Camera Insert

Weight: 0.5 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 10.5 x 4.5 x 8 inches

If you already have the perfect travel bag but want to keep your camera safe on the go, then a camera insert could be for you. You can “bring your own bag” with Tenba’s clever camera inserts that are designed to fit a wide variety of camera systems . Transform your luggage, backpack, or even your handbag into a camera bag for your next shoot.

Made from water-repellent shadow ripstop nylon and featuring durable YKK zippers, this little insert is superstrong and really clever. The soft shells mold to fit the interior of virtually any bag, and they even come with extra pockets to help you organize accessories and everyday necessities you need to take with you.

Padded dividers are fully adjustable and designed to fit multiple configurations, and the soft-brushed tricot lining will keep your equipment safe from scratches or damage. In addition, the stretchy side pockets are perfect for holding your phone, wallet, and other accessories, while D-rings will keep your keys or tethered media wallet in 1 place.

Affordable and practical, this insert is great for those who want to split their time between photo shoots and everyday living without investing in a specialized bag.

• Other sizes available to suit your specific needs
• Velcro for attaching the dividers can become weak over time

S-ZONE Water Resistant DSLR SLR Camera Insert Bag

Weight: 0.55 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 12.6 x 8.27 x 5.12 inches

Using an insert, transform virtually any bag you own into a snug, safe, and discreet camera bag . The S-Zone Camera Bag Insert is designed to fit many of the most popular models of camera available today, including Sony, Canon, Nikon, Olympus, and many more.

To provide high-end protection for DSLR cameras and lenses, use these padded, fully adjustable inserts that can be moved using Velcro strips to custom-fit your equipment. It can accommodate a DSLR camera, lenses, and other gear you need to keep safe — and it’s waterproof, too.

Keep your camera away from prying eyes by using this insert in a regular backpack or bag. After all, nobody but you will know that your camera is tucked away in there! Inexpensive, practical, and easy to use, the S-Zone Camera Insert is a worthwhile addition if you don’t want to drop a ton of cash on a new camera bag but need to keep your gear protected.

• Ability to turn any bag into a camera bag
• Limited internal Velcro for customizing the dividers

Whatever type of camera you own and however big (or small) your budget, there’s a bag, backpack, holster, sling, waist belt, or camera insert that will keep your beloved camera gear safe from harm.

Make sure you get something high-quality that provides adequate protection. After all, there is no point in buying an expensive camera and then skimping on keeping it safe!

If you’re looking into purchasing some additional items for your travel adventures, be sure to check out our other product reviews:

• The Best Travel Cameras – Compact, DSLR, and Mirrorless Camera Guide
• What Are the Best GoPro Alternatives? [We Found Several Options]
• The Best Laptop Backpacks to Buy for Travel
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a camera bag considered a personal item.

A camera bag can be considered a personal item but it will all depend on its size and your airline’s requirements. As a rough guide, if the camera bag is handbag-sized or smaller, most airlines will consider this a personal item. Bigger camera bags with space for lenses or drones will usually be above the personal item size limit and count as your carry-on. Please contact the airline you are flying with to check their carry-on rules.

Can I put a camera in my carry-on bag?

Not only can you put your camera in your carry-on bag, but it is also highly recommended as it could be damaged in transit during your flight if you put it in your checked luggage.

What is the best camera bag for traveling?

• Kattee Leather Canvas Camera Bag
• Lowepro LP36775 Trekker 450 AW Camera Backpack
• Manfrotto Advanced² Camera Gear Backpack
• Pacsafe Camsafe LX8 Anti-Theft Camera Shoulder Bag
• Peak Design 15″ Everyday Messenger Bag 13L

Where should I pack my camera when flying?

You should carry your camera in your carry-on when flying as this will reduce the chance of damage or theft. Check the carry-on dimensions for your airline to ensure your camera bag does not exceed the maximum limit.

What to consider when buying a camera bag?

The bag you choose will need to be roomy enough to fit your camera, lenses, charger, spare batteries, and any other accessories you need to capture epic images. You’ll also want to consider the material and durability, comfort, ease of use and access to your equipment, and security.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The 13 Best Travel Camera Cases of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love a protective camera case for travel, especially when it includes functional compartments and a stylish design.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Grant Webster

A great camera bag doesn’t just keep gear protected during your travels. It also enhances your overall experience by adding comfort, ease, and storage solutions on the go. You don’t want to risk liquid damage or have expensive cameras and lenses get banged up during transit in a bag that doesn’t have water-resistant materials or shock-absorbing dividers. It’s also important to factor in whether you need a backpack style that can hack it in the outdoors, or if you want a heavy-duty case that can be rolled to your gate and stored in the overhead bin.

Because narrowing down a search can be tricky, we evaluated 21 camera bags on design, durability, capacity, portability, and value to see which ones go the distance. While some are better than others for specific types of photography, all 13 that made our list are perfect for anyone looking to up their game. And, as a travel photographer and writer myself, I’ve included my expertise and personal experience traveling around the world with various gear, plus spoke with professional photographer and blogger Renee Hahnel for expert insights about what to look for when shopping for a camera case, too.

Best Overall

Peak design everyday backpack 20l.

Peak Design

• Design 5 /5
• Capacity 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

It has an impressive capacity and fits under the seat when flying.

It doesn’t stand up on its own when placed on the ground.

We love the sleek design of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L, as well as its all-around functionality and portability. It’s versatile enough to use as an overnight pack or strictly a camera bag on a longer trip, with both padded laptop and tablet slots, a separate camera compartment with dividers, and top space for accessories like chargers, snacks, keys, an ID, or even a small clothing item. Three foldable dividers allow you to configure them how you prefer, fitting one or two camera bodies (DSLR or mirrorless), depending upon the lenses you’d like to include inside as well. One mirrorless camera body with three lenses can fit nicely, with room for chargers and accessories, and add another body or small point-and-shoot in the upper area with its magnetic flap-and-hook closure.

The Everyday Backpack is smartly designed with features that work well in the field. It's durability has exceeded all expectations and after six months of use, it shows no signs of wear. We love the deep side pockets, which fit a tripod or water bottle nicely, keeping it tight to the pack with added straps, and the dual side zippers for on-body access so you don’t miss getting the shot while wrangling your camera out of a bag. The bag’s weather resistance works effectively, and the bottom panel is waterproof, so you can rest it on a wet surface without worrying either. The side flaps double as interior zippered storage as well, where batteries, lens cloths, and backup SD cards have individual pockets for keeping them secure.

​​"The Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L is not only sleek in its aesthetic, but it's super practical for traveling with a small to mid-size camera set up and other tech gear, like a laptop and headphones,” Hahnel said. “Then the 30L version is a great option for those with additional gear to carry. I personally really love Peak Design's MagLatch hardware and UltraZips.”

The Details : 22.24 x 11.81 x 8.27 inches (exterior), 21.65 x 11.22 x 6.3 inches (interior) | 20 liters (also sold in 30 liters) | 3.75 pounds | 3 dividers

Travel + Leisure / Robert Caponetto

Best for the Outdoors

Shimoda adventure backpack.

It’s spacious and loaded with accessory pouches and pockets.

If you’re using the removable main compartment, you’ll actually have less space.

The carry-on-friendly Shimoda Explore V2 30 Liter Adventure Backpack is our top pick for photographers who spend a lot of time outdoors when traveling. Ideal for landscape photographers who hike or enjoy other wilderness-based endeavors, this pack has padded shoulder and hip straps for enhanced carrying comfort. The interior is very secure with plenty of options to customize padded Velcro walls for your desired configuration of your individual camera, lens, and more. The small core unit holds a mirrorless camera and a lens but additional lenses and accessories can be stored in the other main compartment, with the ability to hold up to approximately three lenses.

A padded sleeve on the backside holds a 13-inch laptop and a 3-liter bladder sleeve on the front will keep you hydrated during your outing. Water-resistant with a lightweight rain cover included, you’ll be fairly protected should you get caught in the rain or snow as well. The bag itself also holds up to the elements and, after six months of use, still looks brand new, Side and rear camera access are major highlights of this pack, so you can access your gear quickly in the event of a surprise rainbow or wildlife sighting.

The Details : 11.6 x 20.3 x 6.6 inches (exterior), 11.2 x 19.8 x 6.2 inches (interior) | 30 liters (also sold in 25 and 35 liters) | 4.8 pounds | Various customizable Velcro dividers, small and large

Travel + Leisure / Grant Webster

Best Organization

Nomatic mckinnon camera pack.

Rigid dividers keep camera equipment secure while on the go.

It’s a little heavier than other camera backpacks on the market.

Organization is key when shooting on the move and we think the Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L is at the top of its game in that department. A plethora of storage for camera bodies, lenses, SD cards, and hard drives, as well as an external slot for a laptop up to 16 inches makes this a great travel companion. Between the zippered pockets, dividers, and a designated clothing area, you’ll have no problem staying organized.

With 35 liters to work with, you can easily fit more than one camera body and multiple lenses, and, from our tests, we determined that it's possible to accommodate a camera body with a lens attached to it, if needed. The clothing/gear compartment expands by an extra 7 liters, topping the capacity out at 42 liters for trips where you need an extra T-shirt or pair of socks. Even when packed full, it's comfortable to carry thanks to added straps we loved more and more after regularly using them for six months. The bag is water-resistant, has waterproof zippers, and keeps gear dry in moderate rain. Several pockets for everything from your passport to charging cables and filters means everything will have its own place and exterior pockets are perfect for a tripod and water bottle. Side access makes grabbing your camera on the go an easy feat as well. For multi-day trips, this pack is a solid choice.

The Details : 22 x 13.5 x 9 inches (exterior), 21 x 12.5 x 5.25 inches (interior) | 42 liters | 5.75 pounds | 4 long, 5 short dividers

Travel + Leisure / Henry Wortock

Best Rolling

Think tank photo airport security.

• Portability 4 /5

The rugged design and ample padding keeps gear extremely safe for travel.

It lacks a quick access point; the whole bag has to be unzipped to access camera gear.

Give your back a break and enjoy the benefits of a rolling camera case. We love the Think Tank Photo Airport Security V3.0 for its tough, high-quality design and protective padding. The materials both looked and felt secure, promoting confidence when transporting their gear. It even protected all of the items from water during our six-month testing period. Customizable compartments came in handy to tailor-fit a wide array of camera bodies, lenses, hard drives, batteries, and more within the roomy interior. Pack up to two DSLRs or mirrorless model cameras, as well as 4-6 additional lenses and accessories, including a large 600mm lens (detached from camera body). There’s also a slot for a 10-inch tablet and up to 15-inch laptop, and a spot for your tripod and a water bottle, if needed.

Although it doesn’t have spinner wheels, it’s still a relief to roll through the airport when packed with heavy equipment versus carrying a pack. The Think Tank meets most carry-on requirements for both domestic and international flights and we noticed that it fit nicely almost anywhere, from airplane or car to the photo studio. The water-repellent treatment worked well, even in heavy rain.

The Details : 14 x 22 x 9 inches (exterior), 13 x 21 x 7-8 inches (interior) | 11.1 pounds | 10-12 dividers

Travel + Leisure / Victor Protasio

Best Messenger

Tenba dna messenger bag.

• Design 4.8 /5
• Capacity 4.5 /5

It fits more than your typical messenger bag.

It’s a bit bulkier than most bags of this style.

We love the ease of carrying with messenger style bags, and the comfy Tenba DNA 16 Pro offers a spacious interior with easily customizable compartments, too. It’s ideal for photographers looking to only carry a limited set-up as well as a laptop and some accessories . Although it can fit a full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera and up to six lenses, we noticed that it gets to be a bit bulky to carry when stuffed.

A separate padded sleeve on the backside of the interior holds a laptop up to 16 inches or an 11-inch tablet. Zippered pockets and other mesh storage spots offer plenty of additional areas to keep items like passports, keys, SD cards, cords, and more secure. The weather-resistant material with additional boot protection on the bottom is fantastic for when you need to rest it on the ground. Quick access to your gear is through the top zipper, though it felt like the slide clips made it trickier for one-handed access.

The Details : 15.75 x 12 x 7.5 inches (exterior), 14.75 x 11.5 x 6 inches (interior) | 2.9 pounds | 3 medium dividers

Travel + Leisure / Gregory Dupree

Peak Design Everyday Sling

• Durability 4.5 /5

It’s durable and sturdy, made with high-quality materials.

The bag remained a bit stiff, even after six months of regular use.

If you’re in search of a minimalist-style camera bag, the Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L is a top-notch choice. It can be worn as a crossbody bag or waist bag, and features a reversible strap and quick-access zipper for grabbing your gear. Despite being small, there are numerous areas for storage, and it can fit a mirrorless camera or a small DSLR with 2-3 lenses, depending on their size. The removable main compartment has customizable dividers that can fold down, ideal for stacking lenses.

A tablet up to 11 inches in size can fit in the included sleeve, and there are various pockets and zippered areas for other accessories like batteries, SD cards, and lens wipes. Every part of the bag seemed well-made, and it repelled water when sprayed. It was comfortable and lightweight to wear, easy to adjust, and can pack down to easily fit inside a larger suitcase for travel. Additional external straps on the bottom can hold a jacket, clothing, or a tripod, though it’s not the best bag for heavier items like the latter.

The Details : 13.8 x 9.3 x 4.7 inches | 6 liters (also sold in 3 and 10 liters) | 1.7 pounds | 2 medium dividers

Travel + Leisure / Mariah Tyler

Best for Multiple Lenses

Lowepro protactic 450 aw.

It’s very spacious and has 4 access points.

It’s a bit heavier than other camera backpacks.

The Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW is our top pick for photographers looking to carry multiple lenses and/or bodies. Its hiking-pack design adds padded shoulder and waist straps, while your gear will stay secure in the sturdy customizable internal compartments. While we noticed that the harder shell of the bag made it a bit bulky and difficult to store, they also noted that it’s extremely spacious and holds most of the camera gear you’ll need including a laptop up to 15 inches and a tripod attached using the exterior tripod cup or straps.

The 25-liter capacity is designed to hold two full-frame cameras, and up to eight lenses. The included all-weather cover will keep your bag and the gear inside protected from the elements as well. With multiple quick-access points, your photo missions will run a little smoother without having to stop and open the whole bag. We think this bag is worth the price for its durability, functionality, and abundant features.

The Details : 14.1 x 8.6, x 20.5 inches (exterior), 11.8 x 6.3 x 17.3 inches (interior) | 25 liters | 6.25 pounds | 10+ dividers, all sizes

Best Durable

Thule camera bag backpack.

It performs like a hiking backpack that’s comfortable to wear.

It doesn’t store very easily due to its bulkiness.

The Thule Aspect DSLR Camera Bag Backpack is our most durable pick, with thick interior padding that remained stiff and supportive even after six months of regular use. The bag’s weather-resistant exterior can hold up in drizzling rain, too. It also functions well as a hiking backpack with padded shoulder straps, removable hip belt, and an air mesh back panel for ventilation. Customize your gear configuration with the Velcro dividers and store your 15-inch laptop and a tablet in the back padded compartments.

The main camera section can fit a full-frame camera and two lenses and the top pack compartment is great for another compact camera, accessories, or personal gear. A tripod can be stashed in the exterior side pocket with a strap to hold it tight and a small front pocket is great for snacks or keys. Since this bag prioritizes durability, we noticed that it doesn’t compress easily like a regular backpack, making it a little more difficult to store.

The Details : 20.5 x 11.8 x 8.7 inches | 3.2 pounds | 3 dividers

Travel + Leisure / Debbie Wolfe

Best Modular

Boundary prima system.

• Capacity 3.8 /5

The modular design allows for extra tailoring to your preference and gear set-up.

Quick access is for just one camera and lens, everything else has to be accessed by taking it off and unzipping the whole bag.

We love the customizable modular design of the Boundary Prima System pack, suitable for everyday use or 2-3 day trips. A large packing cube that can be expanded with a zipper is designed for storing your camera gear, and can fit through the top or side compartments. (One body and one lens fits in this particular cube.) For those with more camera equipment, it would need to be stored in other spots within the bag, making them more difficult to access on the go.

This main module can be transformed into a separate shoulder sling bag with an included strap for when you want to explore without your entire backpack. A padded slot in the main bag fits up to a 17-inch laptop and a separate folder section can store a tablet, notebook, or other flat items. Additional storage pockets can fit chargers, batteries, cords, and SD cards. The bag kept everything inside dry even after getting caught in the rain. After six months of regular use, this bag has held up to all the elements and protected gear time after time.

The Details : 53 x 31 x 17 inches | 30 liters | 4.9 pounds | 3 modular components, 2 dividers in the camera packing cube

Travel + Leisure / Jason Donnelly

Lo & Sons Claremont

Lo & Sons

• Capacity 3.5 /5

It could easily pass for a stylish purse, yet inconspicuously holds a camera and lens.

It doesn’t fit a ton of gear and the divider pops out easily due to lack of Velcro to hold it down inside.

If you’re looking for a camera bag that doesn’t scream “camera bag” then the Lo & Sons Claremont might be for you. Made from high-quality leather, we noticed that it felt thick and durable while also looking very stylish. The bag can be worn crossbody or on your shoulder by adjusting the length of the strap, making it comfortable to wear. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a smaller lens (like a fixed 35mm or 50mm), plus an additional lens can fit nicely inside, separated by a movable divider. Two small front pockets are designed to hold SD cards and other storage spots like the discreet back zippered pocket can easily fit a wallet, passport, snacks, keys, and more. If you’re looking to travel with a lightweight personal item that also stores your camera — and you don’t need to bring a laptop or tablet — this bag is a win.

It doesn’t seem to have shock absorbent capabilities, making it better suited to hold your camera while exploring instead of using it as a carrying case for travel. The bag lacks a zip enclosure, so if water were to get under the flap with twist latch closure, it’s possible your gear could get wet as well. This camera bag is perfect for city explorations, and bringing your camera out to lunch or dinner when you want to look chic without a big backpack in tow.

The Details : 10.5 x 5.5 x 8.5 inches | 1 camera body, small lens, and additional small lens or flash | 1.5 pounds | 1 small divider

Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio

Best Colors

Brevite the jumper camera backpack.

• Durability 4 /5

It’s a multi-purpose bag in a wide array of great colors.

The dividers aren’t as sturdy as those in other bags.

The Brevite Jumper Camera Backpack is our top pick for best colors, and with 10 hues to choose from, it's easy to see why. Although hip and stylish, this pack offers more than just its looks; with a lightweight profile and ample compartments, this is a great personal carry-on item or everyday bag. After six months of regular use, it remains incredibly durable with very secure zippers that are easy to use. The main camera compartment can fit a full-frame camera with a lens up to 200mm, as well as smaller accessories like chargers, batteries, or small fixed lens. The top storage area is great for snacks, small clothing pieces, or other personal items, and a rear, padded sleeve fits a laptop up to 16 inches in size. A tripod can be carried either in the side pocket or on the bottom using the external straps, and access to your gear is quick through the side zipper.

While the material repels water at first, there was some residual wetness afterwards, so a rain cover might be a good idea. They also determined that it’s a great quality bag that works for work or pleasure travel. As a major bonus, it’s machine washable.

The Details : 16.25 x 10.5 x 5.5 inches | 18 liters | 1.9 pounds | 5 dividers

Best Leather

Ona messenger bag.

• Capacity 4 /5

It’s very stylish and doesn’t look like a regular camera bag.

It’s more suitable for carrying a smaller camera kit.

A classic style that’s as beautiful as it is functional, ONA’s The Bowery Messenger Bag is our top choice for a buttery soft leather camera bag. Crafted from Italian-tanned leather, this high-quality bag is perfect for toting a DSLR or mirrorless camera and additional lens, slung over your shoulder or worn cross-body. After six months of use, we love how much the bag is able to store, making it the perfect option for daily use. The padded strap makes it comfortable to wear while shooting, exploring, or commuting. The main compartment can be tailored to your camera size and preference with the movable Velcro divider, fitting a full-frame camera with a fixed 35mm or 50mm lens attached, as well as another smaller lens, or a camera body and detached additional lens, likely up to 100mm.

Another slot compartment on the backside and two smaller front storage spaces can hold smaller accessories like cords, SD cards, and lens cloths as well as a wallet or passport. Alternatively, a small tablet could fit in that back slot but would take up the entire space. The gear fit snugly; it was not too tight to pull out, but secure and safe inside. For days where you just want one camera body and a lens or two, this fashionable bag is the answer to that call, though at a heftier price tag.

The Details : 11.8 x 8.9 x 5.4 inches | 1 camera body and up to 2 small lenses | 2 pounds | 1 small divider

Travel + Leisure / Dera Burreson

Best Budget

Bagsmart photo camera backpack.

• Durability 3.5 /5

It’s a great value for its features and space.

It’s more of a starter bag as the durability may not last for the long-haul.

The Bagsmart Photo Camera Backpack is a top pick for both beginners and those looking for a budget-friendly camera bag. Crafted from canvas, this pack has ample storage space, fitting a full-frame camera body, two lenses, external flash and a laptop up to 15 inches in size within the padded back slot. The interior compartment is customizable to your kit, with movable dividers, and the top compartment is spacious for personal items, though it might be beneficial for some of the top compartment space to be used in the camera gear section instead. We also determined that with two camera bodies or more than 2-3 lenses, it would be fairly tight.

The side pockets accommodate both a tripod and a water bottle, and the included rain cover does a solid job at keeping things dry. Quick side access allows you to grab your camera easily, and it was very comfortable to wear as a casual backpack. This bag offers solid value for the features, and is best suited for an amateur photographer looking to get started.

The Details : 17.3 x 11.5 x 7 inches | 25 liters | 3 pounds | 2 small, 2 medium dividers

Travel + Leisure / Abby Mercer

Our team of photographers tested 21 camera bags and cases for travel. A range of tests were performed in everyday shooting situations for a wide array of photography types, from landscape to portrait and everything in between. All of the bags were packed with typical photography gear, including different types of camera bodies, various lenses, batteries, SD cards, laptops, and personal items to see how they’d perform in real-world travel situations.

We assessed how easy it was to access the camera gear on-the-move, how comfortable it was to wear or roll the case, how much can actually fit inside, and how weather-resistant the material was as well. We also took note if a laptop and tripod could fit. Additionally, all zippers, fasteners, pockets, storage compartments, and customizable divider configurations were tested.

Other Travel Camera Cases We Liked

Some of the camera cases we tested didn’t quite make the cut on our list, but they did have some notable features that may be a fit for some photographers who travel.

Neewer 2-in-1 Rolling Camera Backpack: With spacious storage compartments that are adequately padded, and room for multiple camera bodies, lenses, a tripod, and a laptop, we loved how easy this pack was to pull when using the wheels. Unfortunately, it fell short in the storage department as it would be too large to fit in overhead bins of smaller airplanes and didn’t have removable shoulder straps to help with this issue.

Travel + Leisure / Jacob Fox

Think Tank Photo Airport Accelerator Backpack: We loved the impressive storage capacity of this backpack, and the high-quality features like a theft lock, durable padding and support, and an included rain cover. Although it fits a ton of gear, it’s likely too large for most photographers who don’t carry as much on a regular basis, and the rain cover only covers three out of the four sides of the pack, leaving one section exposed.

Travel + Leisure / Fred Hardy

Bellroy Venture Sling 10L: We love this sling’s sleek design, user-friendly features, sturdy hardware, folding padded dividers, and water resistance. It fits more than you’d think, with room for a camera and plenty of accessories, but the 10-liter size is a bit bulky to carry, and the internal dividers aren’t removable.

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wojczyk Wang

Tips for Buying Travel Camera Cases

Prioritize durable materials and padding.

The bottom line to consider when shopping for a travel case or bag for your camera is safety. Evaluate what features the bag has in place to keep your expensive gear protected from drops, moisture, and anything else travel might throw at you. A camera bag that’s durable and rugged enough to withstand some wetness — or at the very least includes a rain cover and padding in the main compartment — will make all the difference. You want to be able to put your bag in the overhead bin without worrying about your gear shifting too much as well. "When buying a travel camera bag or case, you definitely want to prioritize durable materials and a high-quality build,” Hahnel said. “You will likely have this bag for a long time and it will house your expensive camera equipment, so it's worth investing in something with adequate padding, durability, and weather resistance. That includes weather-sealed zips and pockets."

Consider pockets, dividers, and other organizational features

Organization is paramount for photographers that have a lot of moving parts, so a bag that can help with this is already a winner. You don’t want to be pawing through charging cords, your passport, or snacks when attempting to quickly grab your camera for a once-in-a-lifetime shot.

“[Organizational features] include things like pockets, dividers, and drink bottle or tripod side holders,” Hahnel said. “Some bags even have hidden areas to safely store your passport away from opportunistic thieves. I personally find it much easier to access gear in my bag when it's stored in a practical way. Being able to get your camera gear out quickly could be the difference between getting and missing an incredible shot.”

Look for multiple access points and carrying options

A good camera bag allows easy and efficient access to your gear. Additionally, it’s difficult to carry a super heavy bag — and camera gear typically isn’t light. It’s important to consider how much gear you plan to carry, and how else you plan to use the bag: will you be hiking with it? Will you be storing it in an overhead compartment? In those cases, it’s nice to have a durable side handle to grab it.

"I cannot stress [enough] the importance of having a camera bag with hip and sternum straps,” Hahnel said. “Even if you don't think your bag is that heavy, it will be after you load it with gear and stand for hours on end with it on your back. Look for a bag with multiple carrying options, including an external strap to attach it to a wheeled luggage case. This will save your back on airport days! It's also important to consider how you would like to access your camera gear. Are you someone who likes to access gear from a side zip or from the top of your bag? This may depend on what type of photography you focus on, like street photography versus landscape.”

It’s really up to your preference and camera kit. But whether you have a smaller gear setup with one camera and a few lenses or a more involved setup, you’ll want to prioritize space, customizable dividers, and accessories that make sense for your shoot. Additionally, a tripod is helpful in situations where you want to take low-light, long-exposure, nighttime, or self-timer images. If you find yourself in a situation where you have a great bag but just need a cube to keep your camera safe, you can buy just a removable cube as an insert into a backpack or tote bag that you already own.

"You should pack your camera body, lenses, lens wipes, SD cards, batteries, battery charger, and a tripod if you use one,” Hahnel said. “Some people also choose to carry additional accessories such as a camera strap, circular polarizer filters, ND filters, a Rocket Blower, and portable lights. You also might want to pack your passport, ID, phone, portable charging bank, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, a snack, and a pair of headphones.”

Yes. It’s important to check the requirements for each airline , but there are many camera bag and case options that fit within these specifications.

"[Camera bags] typically fit within the suggested airline dimensions for carry-on items,” Hahnel said. “In most cases, a camera case will be over the weight limit for an airline's personal item allowance, but check the limitations before you fly.”

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Lauren Breedlove scoured our testing insights to find the best camera bags and cases for various gear set-ups. A travel photographer herself, she also used her personal experience finding the right products to suit shooting conditions around the world, including some of the recommendations on this list. Lastly, she interviewed professional photographer Renee Hahnel for more real world suggestions and tips.

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The Best Travel Camera Cases and Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your cameras and lenses organized and protected while on the go

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Debbie Wolfe

Cameras are still essential travel gear, but unlike flip-flops and toiletries, cameras require special handling and, ideally, a dedicated camera case. If you’re hitting the road (or tarmac) with expensive camera gear, it’s worth investing in a camera-specific travel bag or case that not only protects your investment but has a home for each camera, lens, and accessory you might bring along.

To help you find the perfect travel camera case, we had more than a dozen testers get hands-on with 21 of the most popular camera-specific travel cases and narrowed it down to our nine favorites. We reviewed bags on their design, layout, comfort when carrying, and even tested the waterproofing on bags that advertised it. These nine travel camera cases fit different niches within the category, giving you a wide range of options since not all photographers and videographers travel the same.

Our favorite camera bag overall was the Thule Aspect because of its smart design and layout and its minimalist, streamlined style in a size that should work for most photographers on the go. And because it doesn’t scream “photo case,” it can be used as an everyday pack even when leaving the camera gear at home. Read on for more about the Aspect and the eight other camera cases our testers found were worthy of your consideration.

TripSavvy's Picks

Other camera cases we tested, how we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, thule camera bag backpack.

Camera accessible while wearing

The understated design doesn't scream "camera bag"

Fits under airline seats

No cover, not fully waterproof

While they’re not an endemic camera brand and are probably best known for their ubiquitous roof racks and bike carriers, Sweden’s Thule makes exceptional camera luggage. Their XX-liter Aspect strikes an outstanding balance of simplicity and functionality and is unassuming enough to work great as an everyday carry pack even if your camera stays at home. The primary camera and lens storage area has a convenient side entry zip and enough space for a DSLR body with a lens attached and two to three additional lenses and accessories. Our testers loved the placement of this side access compartment because it’s accessible without removing the pack to unzip and pull the camera out quickly if needed.

You can easily rearrange the padded internal dividers to fit your specific gear needs, and there’s a mesh zippered pocket on the inside of the opening flap to hold loose items such as extra batteries and cables close at hand. The top-access compartment provides a separate area to carry extra equipment if you’re gear-heavy or miscellaneous non-camera gear, such as layers, snacks, and water. The laptop sleeve holds up to 15-inch laptops or tablets and is roomy enough that you don’t have to fight to get your device in properly, like some similar sleeves. Like most camera bags, your tripod storage is along the side and uses a mesh pocket and strap to secure it.

The Aspect is water-resistant, not waterproof, but stood up to direct water exposure in our testing. It also wears like a standard daypack and has a sternum strap and substantial hip belt if you fully load the pack. The hip belt also has mesh quick-storage built-in, so you don’t have to overload pockets with things like lens caps and batteries when you’re in the thick of shooting. There’s plenty of room for gear for your average photographer, but the size and shape are small enough to fit under most airplane seat storage areas, so you don’t have to worry about contents shifting during flight.

Capacity: XX liters | Weight: 3.2 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15.6-inch | Materials: 100 percent nylon

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Peak design everyday backpack 20l.

Peak Design

Innovative design touches

On-body access

Pricier than similarly sized bags

Peak Design started as a Kickstarter launch, and their camera bags and accessories are now some of the most sought-after camera equipment. Their Everyday Backpack (now in its second iteration) isn’t just another camera backpack and has loads of intelligent design features you’d expect from Peak Design. Our tester appreciated the ambidextrous side access that lets you into the main compartment from either side by removing one arm from the shoulder strap and slinging the bag around to your front. Inside, Peak’s innovative, origami-like FlexFold dividers keep your camera items from bumping into each other. 

The side-access panels have zippers, but the top flap closes with a dead-quiet MagLatch closure that can clamp down less or more depending on how full that compartment is. The laptop sleeve holds up to a 16-inch size but can be adjusted for smaller computers so they don’t fall down, making them harder to dig for. We tested the 20-liter model, but for a modest additional $20, you can get the same pack in a 30-liter version if you carry more gear than average. If you occasionally need even more capacity, stowaway external carry straps permit multiple configurations for lashing things like jackets, tents, or whatever your adventures call for. There are smart travel features as well. The pack’s back has a sleeve that slides over a roller bag’s handle, and there’s a quick stash top pocket for miscellanies such as phones, chargers, and passports.

Capacity: 20 liters | Weight: 4.43 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 16-inch | Materials: 400D recycled plastic

Tripsavvy / Robert Caponetto

Best Budget

Bagsmart photo camera backpack.

Stylish non-techy look

Built-in rain cover

The top compartment lacks padding

Despite being one of the few bags we tested that retails for less than $100, this is a stylish backpack you could use for everyday carry without anyone knowing you're wearing a camera pack. Our tester said, "It looks like a nice, modern backpack that doesn't scream, 'I have expensive equipment in here!'" Inside the water-resistant canvas, however, is a large lower compartment with padded dividers that holds a camera with a lens attached and three to four additional lenses or other gear items. And like more expensive camera bags, there's a side access pocket that lets you quickly grab your camera while keeping the bag slung on one shoulder.

The expandable top compartment captures the rest of your stuff with a water-resistant cinch top beneath the canvas flap that closes securely with belt-like leather straps. Side pouches with elastic hold water bottles or tripods, and the laptop sleeve keeps your computer up to 15 inches secure against your back. The canvas is water-resistant but also has a pull-out cover in case the weather takes a serious turn.

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: Not listed | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15-inch | Materials: Canvas

TripSavvy / Abby Mercer

Peak Design Everyday Sling

Easy on-body access

High durable exterior

Collapsible for travel

Not fully waterproof

If you want to travel light with a stripped-down camera gear kit, a bag or pack can be overkill, making it harder to access what you need. For situations like this, I’ve used an earlier version of Peak Design’s 6-liter Everyday Sling for years, and it’s durable enough that it still looks like new. The updated version remains largely unchanged but comes in additional sizes (you can get it in 3-, 6-, or 10-liter versions) and new color options. The latest version also adds more durable zippers and uses recycled materials. The 6-liter is only big enough to hold a tablet, but you can use the external carry straps to bring a tripod when necessary.

The collapsible sling is thick, padded, and fairly stiff and can flatten enough to store inside a larger suitcase. Alternatively, you could pack the smaller sling sizes with your gear and place it inside other luggage to keep your equipment protected in transit and ready to be deployed for lighter trips at your destination. Our tester loved carrying the smaller pack when traveling, taking just enough equipment, and quickly swinging it around to access gear.

Capacity: 3-liter, 6-liter (tested), 10-liter | Weight: 1.72 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 11-inch tablet | Materials: 400D recycled plastic canvas

TripSavvy / Mariah Tyler

Most Durable

Neewer rolling camera backpack.

Three carry options

Large capacity

Attached rain cover

Shoulder straps aren't removable

If you carry a lot of gear, many travel camera packs can make you feel cramped trying to fit Speedlites, large telephotos, and extra camera bodies. Not an issue with Neewer’s luggage-style roller bag that converts to a backpack and also has a regular suitcase carry handle and plenty of interior room and is rated to handle over 120 pounds of gear. The non-removable wheels and telescoping handle give your back a break when navigating airports and city streets, but the backpack straps (including a waist belt) let you go off-road when needed.

Our tester loved the solid structure and substantial padding to protect their gear and felt the bag could withstand drops and other abuse in transit. The exterior is made from waterproof nylon but has an attached rain cover, just in case. This extra-large backpack is just small enough to fit in overhead storage on a plane, but our tester found a few downsides. Because of the size and weight, it’s not the most comfortable for long-term wear as a backpack, and the backpack straps aren’t removable to prevent snagging when used as a roller bag.

Capacity: 60-kilogram weight-rated | Weight: 9.43 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15-inch | Materials: Nylon

TripSavvy / Jacob Fox

Best Organization

Think tank photo airport security.

Extra-durable exterior

Lots of interior space

Meets carry-on size requirement

You expect durability with “tank” in the brand name, but this airline-ready roller carry-on bag should withstand nearly anything with ballistic-grade waterproof nylon outside and heavy padding. Think Tank designed this bag to meet US and international carry-on requirements, but there’s still tons of room inside, and our tester loaded it up with two bodies and large lenses and still had about 20 percent of the volume left unused. Think Tank’s highest-capacity roller bag accommodates up to 600 millimeters of telephoto lenses.

There’s a laptop compartment that will hold up to a 17-inch device, but otherwise, the bag is essentially one giant equipment compartment with tons of dividers, giving you maximum flexibility to arrange the bag to hold your specific gear configuration. While you could fit smaller tripods inside, the bag has tripod-specific straps for exterior carry and a TSA-approved padlock and cable lock for theft prevention. Our tester loved the build and durability, but the downside is that the pack is heavy, which gets magnified when fully loaded, so you’ll want to use the rolling wheels whenever possible to avoid carrying the total weight.

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 12.76 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 17-inch | Materials: 1680D ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Victor Protasio

Most Comfortable

Lowepro protactic 450 aw.

Armored build

Lots of available accessories to attach

Ergonomic build for all-day comfort

For long days shooting in the field, you want a comfortable, ergonomic backpack, and it’s no surprise that a brand with backpacking roots makes our Most Comfortable pick. Colorado-born Lowe Alpine made the first internal frame backpacking pack, and they’ve been making camera-specific years for over 50 years. The ProTactic 450 AW is for adventurous photographers who need to keep their pack on over countless miles and long days with ActiveZone support that uses firm but supportive padding that leaves room for airflow against your back. Our tester specifically called out the extra-wide waist strap for putting the weight on their hips where it belongs instead of the shoulders. Beyond simple padding, the ProTactic 450 employs FormShell construction lands it somewhere between a backpack and hard-sided luggage.

Everything about the ProTactic 450 AW says “tactical,” and its webbing-wrapped exterior permits attachment of LowePro’s many sold-separately SlipLock accessories, such as pouches for water bottles, phone, and other accessories. Included straps and a tripod cup securely attach to the outside. Despite being stiff and armored, there are four ways into the main compartment for easy access to your gear, no matter where the pack is.

Capacity: 25 liters | Weight: 6.26 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15-inch | Materials: Not listed

TripSavvy / Gregory Dupree

Best Storage

Nomatic mckinnon camera pack.

High volume

Very expensive

Helpful accessory pouches not included

Salt Lake City-based luggage company Nomatic likely paired with popular YouTube photographer/videographer Peter McKinnon partly because of his massive following, but the 35-liter McKinnon Camera Pack has developed a loyal following of its own. The pack stands out for its ruggedly urban looks and enormous storage capacity, expandable up to 42 liters to accommodate lots of content creation gear but a few days' worth of clothes and basics. The TPU-coated 900D nylon is rugged and waterproof, forming a durable armor that's still flexible enough to feel like a backpack and retain some flexibility despite ample padding everywhere. 

We tested the Nomatic pack in the field, and both testers appreciated how the pack forms to your back and the extra padding in the shoulder straps to ease the weight when fully loaded. Like an excellent backpacking pack, the shoulder straps also have load-lifter straps to help position the weight on your shoulders, and sternum and waist straps help distribute the weight more evenly. The pack is heavy compared to backpacking packs, and it needs to be to pad and protect your equipment, but it's light for its capacity compared to other high-volume camera bags we tested. Even for such a nice pack, the price is high, so we wished Nomatic threw in a few helpful accessory pouches and packing cubes that are part of the McKinnon camera gear line.

Capacity: 35 liters (expands to 42L) | Weight: 5.75 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 16-inch | Materials: EVA back panels, 900D TPU-coated nylon  exterior, Hypalon lashing points

TripSavvy / Henry Wortock

Our testers loved the Thule Aspect and the Peak Design Everyday 20L packs for their streamlined profiles and photography-specific builds packed with many innovative features. While the Peak Design bag has tons of unique features we loved, the Thule Aspect edged it out just barely by having a more accessible price point, making it an excellent option for pros and casual photographers alike. We also got most of the same features out of the surprisingly capable Bagsmart Photo Camera Backpack, which has most of the features we loved in pricier packs but was the only one of our picks that retails for less than $100.

Thule Covert 32L Camera Pack : This well-designed, high-capacity pack is an excellent option for balancing personal and camera gear storage via a removable camera pod that works as a sling. However, we felt Thule Aspect was a better option for most travelers, thanks to a much lower price point. Pros who want more storage and versatility should consider the Covert if they find the Aspect too small or simplistic.

Manfrotto Advanced III Rolling Camera Bag : This basic camera roller bag ticks most of the boxes on paper, but our tester found the padding lacking and expected more storage from a carry-on-sized piece of luggage.

Think Tank Photo Airport Accelerator Backpack : Our tester loved this bag's size and build quality, but other options in this category edged it out by having more carry options to ease the burden of carrying a higher volume of gear.

Boundary Prima System : We loved the design and modularity of this pack and its components but wished there wasn't an extra charge to make it waterproof and that they included more parts of their system.

Manfrotto MB MA2-BP-GM Advanced² Gear M Camera and Laptop Backpack : We appreciated the comfort and design of this pack despite lacking a hip belt, but felt it was a bit small for travel since there isn't much space dedicated to clothes and personal items.

Wandrd PRVKE : We tested the 21-liter size, and our professional photographer tester felt there wasn't enough gear storage for most pros. We also felt the price was high, especially considering the additional cost of including the "essential" photography bundle.

Brevite The Jumper Camera Backpack : This stylish, small backpack scored high marks from our tester for being lightweight and easy to carry. It comes in many bright solid colors and could be an excellent choice for someone with a streamlined kit.

Hex Ranger DSLR Sling V2 : This is a more modestly priced sling than our Best Sling pick from Peak Design that could be an excellent option for photographers that don't want to spend over $100 on a camera sling. Compared to the Peak Design sling, it lacks some structure and durability but is about half the cost.

Bellroy Venture Sling 10L: This oversized sling got high marks from our NY-based tester, who loved the quality, design, and ease of use while walking around for street photography.

Tenba DNA 16 Pro Messenger Ba g: If you prefer the ease of access of a shoulder-slung bag like this, the Tenba may be a great fit as a day trip bag, though our tester wished it was a tad smaller.

Lo & Sons Claremont : While it's not for everyone, this shoulder bag looks like an oversized purse and has some basic camera-specific design touches—an excellent choice for someone who wants a camera bag that's a bit chic.

ONA The Bowery Messenger Bag : Another stylish, purse-like shoulder camera bag. Our tester loved the style and could fit her entire kit inside but felt the price was too high.

Gatta Rae Noir : Another leather purse/shoulder bag option. Stylish and reasonably priced but bulky for travel and better-suited for day shoots closer to home for photographers that want a stylish bag.

Poler Elevated Camera Cooler: A fun, lunch tote-style camera bag that converts to a light-duty lunch cooler after removing the padded dividers. A more unisex option for folks that want a shoulder carry day bag for a small camera kit.

More than a dozen recreational and professional testers took 21 camera bags out around their home bases and on road and air travel trips. Testers spent time customizing the travel bag’s organization and trying different configurations. They then took the bags into the field, testing for ease of use and accessibility of gear while worn and comfort in transit. 

We also tested the weatherproofing of the bags when present by taking them out in bad weather when possible and spraying them down at home to gauge how well they keep gear dry. Testers examined zippers, fasteners, pockets, storage compartments, and special features for durability and ease of use.

What to Look for When Buying a Travel Case for Camera

Camera bag makers use various materials to achieve their design goals, and there’s no “best” material to watch when evaluating your camera bag options. Some bags use fabrics such as nylon, and many employ coatings such as DWR or rubbery TPU to give them weather resistance. Many manufacturers will list the Denier rating of fabric, and if durability is important to you, look for exterior materials with higher Denier numbers. However, remember that higher Deniers are usually heavier, bulkier, and less flexible.

Most backpacks and camera bags measure storage volume in liters, which can be a useful way to compare the size of different bags when shopping online. We tested some slings 10 liters or less in volume, and most packs fell between 20 and 40 liters. While you can undoubtedly buy camera bags and cases larger than this, they become too big to carry on and fall more into the luggage category than travel bags. When choosing a bag size for your travels with camera gear, consider not only the amount of camera gear you need to transport but any personal items, such as clothing, computers, hard drives, water, snacks, etcetera, that you’ll want to include to estimate the volume that’s right for you.

Additional Features

With most photographers operating in the digital world, most camera bags have a slot for a laptop, and we’ve included the maximum laptop size for any bags with that feature. If you usually employ a tripod, look for bags with a dedicated tripod storage solution. More advanced bags will often have special, smaller compartments for odds and ends that photographers carry, such as memory cards, hard drives, batters, filters, and more. 

All but one of our picks above cost over $100, and camera bags are generally more expensive than comparably sized backpacks and bags because they include extra features and materials used to organize and protect your gear. You can expect to pay $150 up to $400 for a high-quality, higher-volume camera-specific pack though smaller bags and slings will generally cost less.

Cleaning and care for camera bags will vary from model to model and brand to brand, but your best bet is to spot clean whenever possible. Waterproof bags can be easier to clean as they repel water, resist stains more readily, and can also be sprayed down if they get dirty. A few bags are machine-washable, but always consult manufacturer recommendations on how to clean individual bags.

Smaller bags can qualify as personal items, and several of our picks will meet size requirements for carry-ons for domestic flights. Because these requirements can vary depending on your location, destination, and airline carrier, it always makes sense to consult your airline’s specific requirements and fees before you fly.

When traveling with camera gear, bringing any equipment you might need for a particular trip or a photo shoot is a good idea. While no one wants to lug around more gear than they expect to use, it can be expensive, difficult, or even impossible to replace items you didn’t bring when you’re far from home. If you’re like me and prefer to overpack camera gear, get a bigger pack than you think you need.

Also, anticipate your non-camera needs, such as extra clothes, personal electronics, and food/beverage considerations. If you want one pack to hold everything, choose a camera bag that holds more than just camera gear. Especially when dealing with food and liquids, it’s a good idea to have separate compartments for personal and camera items.

Over 15 years as a professional photographer and videographer, Justin Park has tested and owned dozens of camera bags and cases for both work and play. He has employed and destroyed slings, backpacks, and hard cases filming Olympic games and backcountry sporting events such as mountain bike races and ultramarathons, including Colorado’s Leadville 100.

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The Best Camera Bags of 2024

From hikes to crowded events and everything in between — you need a camera bag to protect your precious, and pricey equipment. We’ve put our favorites through their paces to bring you the best camera bags of the year.

Whether you’re an amateur who loves shooting on nature walks or a professional with back-to-back events, having a functional, high-quality camera bag in your tool kit is critical. 

With so many types of bags available, choosing the best one for your needs can be hard. The best camera bag provides padding and protection for your expensive gear, is comfortable for long days of shooting, and offers easy access during those can’t-miss moments. 

With years of professional photography experience, tester Katelyn Clement tested seven satchel camera bags varying in size, protection level, and features. Her goal: to find the best camera bags for all photographers, from the point-and-shooter to the event-going professional.

In her 8-year career, Clement has photographed several large concert events, video shoots, and outdoor excursions. She has shimmied through tight crowds and trekked up muddy trails enough to know that a reliable camera bag is necessary to keep camera gear safe, and her worries about that expensive gear in check. 

We tested on hiking trails, at crowded events in music venues, and many scenarios in between. Whether you need a simple option for everyday use or a multicompartment hauler for your camera quiver, we’ve got you covered. Scroll through to see all of our recommended models. Check out our buyer’s guide , comparison chart , and FAQ to learn more.

• Best Overall Camera Bag: Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag
• Best Budget Camera Bag: Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster
• Best Camera Bag for Event Shoots: WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L
• Best Protective Camera Bag: Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L

Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag

• Weight 2.9 lbs., /1.32 kg
• Outside dimensions 15.75" x 12" x 7.5"
• Inside dimensions 14.75"x 11.5" x 6"
• Materials TPU-coated material (waterproof) with YKK zippers.

• Exclusive Whisper Hook closure, flap
• Quick-access top zipper
• Big padded computer slot
• Lots of inside room
• Inserts foldover top
• Whole insert comes out
• Plentiful pockets
• Fits so much that it can get heavy for a shoulder bag
• May be a little too bulky for short and smaller framed photographers

Finding a bag as universal as the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag ($200) is akin to finding a unicorn. Why do we say that? Well, this modern bag not only holds a ton of gear but also makes it extremely easy to access so you never miss a shot.   

One thing about the Tenba brand, in particular, is its exclusive Whisper Hook design that allows the closure clip to slide and release with ease and securely clip back together. The more gear you have, the harder it is to unclip, but the straps adjust to accommodate the amount of gear you need to carry.

This bag also has an easy-access top zipper large enough so you can dig around for a specific lens without having to put your bag down to unhook the flap. Photography is all about capturing unexpected moments; the Pro Messenger bag is designed so you can do this with speed and ease.   

This bag was full of surprises since it felt like we kept discovering a new pocket or compartment. Our tester took this bag to a professional photo shoot at a concert and easily fit two camera bodies, four lenses, a laptop, and two water bottles, and attached a tripod using the side straps.

The one downside to all this space? It got heavy fast! At hour 2 of this 5-hour event, Clement found the bag wasn’t supportive enough to carry that much gear, so she had to find a secure area backstage for the bag.  Though the adjustable, padded strap makes carrying this bag easy and comfortable for a short amount of time, she found that if it’s loaded up her neck and shoulders start to ache. Clement also found the bag was a little too big for her body frame at 5’6” and 140 pounds. 

With its waterproof material and seam-sealed base, the Tenba fared very well when taken outside. And while the TPU-coated material does keep your gear dry, it gets a little warm in the heat, so it may make you sweat. Bonus feature: the bag comes with a rain sleeve that works well in a downpour.  

This bag may be a little pricey, but it is one of the most durable, versatile camera bags out there. It could easily become a bag you take to the office for work or one you use for exploring a new city along with your camera. If used as a traditional camera bag for professional photographers, the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag is the perfect accessory for large events like weddings and banquets.

Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag

• Weight 0.64 lbs. / 0.29 kg
• Outside dimensions 7.3” x 5.3” x 8.25”
• Inside dimensions 6.5” x 4.5” x 7.0”
• Materials Water-repellent exterior and smooth polyester lining, mesh pocket

• Quick-release buckle
• Adjustable, removable shoulder strap
• Weather resistant
• Card slots so you never run out of memory
• Front zipper pocket keeps accessories organized
• Very padded
• Plastic clips may break
• Only fits crop sensors and smaller cameras
• The mesh side pocket isn’t very thick

If you’re just starting out as a photographer or are a pro going light for the day, the Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag ($16) is a great way to protect and carry that single camera body and lens. 

Although the most affordable option on our list, this holster bag has a generous amount of padding for its size. The front zippered pocket, also padded, leaves just enough room for small accessories, while the interior has two SD card pockets just inside the lid. The padded handle allows you to carry without the risk of stressing your hand. 

The zippered top allows for quick, easy access and opens away from your body, so no one but you can use it. The adjustable strap lets you decide the length accordingly, and the nylon is strong enough to handle the weight. However, the plastic clips seem like they would break if put under enough force. 

The weather-resistant material keeps your camera dry in light rain, and the accessory strap allows the user to wear this bag in two different ways: around the shoulder or at the hip. Outdoors, this bag proved to be durable and easy to carry. The only issue we had with this bag is that it can only fit a smaller setup and does not have room for extra lenses due to its shape and size.

The Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag is perfect for quick, on-the-go photography with a single DSLR camera and one attached lens. There is plenty of room for several extra SD cards and a couple of spare batteries, so it’s a simple, well-padded, protected way to carry all you need for a day of shooting. 

Wandrd Rogue Sling 9L

• Weight 1.74 lbs. / 0.79 kg
• Outside dimensions 8.5"X 13.5" X 7"
• Inside dimensions 7.75” X 13" X 5"
• Materials 840D Jr. Ballistic nylon with 5PM coating, (weather resistant) 1680D ballistic nylon, weather-resistant YKK zippers

• Does not fall forward when you reach into it
• Three ways to carry
• Weather-resistant
• Three grab handles and key clip
• Tripod straps work well
• Fits 16" laptop
• Comes in a variety of sizes for different needs (3L, 6L, and 9L)
• When using the laptop pocket, the laptop hangs out, unprotected
• Sides aren’t very well padded

The WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L ($159) is an extremely comfortable bag with several unique qualities and many forms of protection.  

Available in several colors and three sizes (3L, 6L, and 9L), this bag can be carried over the shoulder, as a messenger bag, or “fanny pack” style. It has easily adjustable straps and three different grab handles.

Additional features make this a great option: extra straps to hold a compact tripod, clips in front for key rings, plentiful pockets for memory cards and accessories, and a “secret” pocket at the base for an umbrella, light rain jacket, or water bottle.

Thanks to these features, its waterproof material, and enough padding to protect a full-frame camera body and two to three spare lenses, this 9L bag is perfect for hiking. We found it very comfortable while on walks and appreciated that it protected our camera gear, water bottles, and snacks from a light rain halfway through the hike. 

Even with three carry options, this bag is well-balanced, easy to access, and doesn’t tip forward when we are digging through it. While we shot a 4-hour event in a concert hall, the strap remained comfortable and never caused an achy neck or shoulder.

Compared to the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag , Clement found that this bag allowed her to carry the amount of gear needed, but was easier to handle with her size and frame.  This bag kept our gear dry from outdoor elements and it also protected us from a syrupy drink spilled on us at the concert venue. The weather-resistant material is also easy to clean. 

Our only concern is that although the WANDRD bag does have a 16-inch laptop slot, there is a zipper you have to undo on the underside to give that sized laptop room to fit. This means the laptop hangs unprotected from the bottom of the bag and has limited protection on the sides. This wouldn’t be a problem for a wearer with a tablet, smaller laptop, or no device at all.

This bag is one of the more comfortable, even when we packed it full of gear. It provides considerable padding and has adjustable inserts for different-sized lenses or camera bodies, making it ideal for shooting events where you need to constantly change lenses. Since the inserts are adjustable and removable, the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L is versatile and great for other uses like travel. It does come in three sizes (3L, 6L, 9L), so finding the size right for you and your needs is easy. 

Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L

• Weight 1.72 lbs. / 0.78 kg
• Outside dimensions 13.39-10.63” x 5.12-4.33” x 9.45”
• Inside dimensions 11-9”x 4.33-3.5” x 8.27”
• Materials 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell. 100% recycled post-consumer material, nylon interior. Hardware is anodized aluminum and glass-reinforced nylon (weatherproof)

• Dedicated tablet sleeve with magnetic closure
• Divider shelves aid in organization & increase versatility
• Shell is 100% recycled
• Inside stretchy pockets increase storage and organization
• Top of the dividers fold over for added protection
• Tripod and external carry clips allow for extra gear
• Weatherproof
• Comes in 3L, 6L, and 10L for varying needs
• Rigid dividers
• The inside side pouches are too small for anything
• Inner zipper pocket fits only small things
• Front zipper pocket is very flat

The Peak Design Everyday V2 6L Sling ($120) is a slick, sleek sling that provides enough padding and safety for your camera and two to three lenses. With two different ways to wear, cross-body or over the shoulder, this bag allows easy access to your camera and provides room for many accessories. 

On hikes, the Peak Design sling proved extremely durable and comfortable. Its weatherproof recycled 400D shell keeps gear safe with its thick insulation layer. And even after hours in the sun, this material stayed cool and didn’t overheat. We loved how the swivel clips and padded strap made it easy to swing the bag around to the front for quick access. Additional quick-grab hooks and straps mean you can attach a tripod on the bottom. 

The inside of the bag has adjustable shelf dividers, allowing you to customize what you bring, and how you pack and organize your gear. You can fit a camera with two lenses on either side or stack two small lenses with the shelf used as a divider. 

The dedicated tablet sleeve is ideal for bringing along a small screen and has a magnet to keep it closed. Although we could fit an iPad, the sleeve is a bit short, exposing some of the iPad. The sleeve is thick enough to protect from rubbing up against your other gear. 

We felt that some of the storage options fell short. The outside pocket is small and compressed so it is best used for flatter gear like memory cards, phones, or spare batteries. The two inner side pockets are small, making them hard to get into, so they would be best for extra straps. 

While tested against the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L and Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag , Clement found the Peak stiffer and harder to stretch or open. However, the Peak bag could hold the same amount of gear as the WANDRD bag, even though its design was a bit sleeker. 

The Peak Design Everyday V2 6L bag is perfect for everyday carry and discreet enough for street photography. It can be used for simple photo sessions, smaller events, vacations, and hikes. This V2 series comes in 3, 6, and 10 L. We recommend the 6L or 10L bag if you need more than a basic DSLR and lens.

Amazon Basics Large DSLR Gadget Bag

• Weight 1.56 lbs. / 0.71 kg
• Outer dimensions 15” x 7.9” x 11.8”
• Inner dimensions 11” x 6.5” x 7.5”
• Materials Polyester, nylon, Velcro

• Slot for a small tablet
• Room for a full frame camera and extra lens
• Lots of side pockets
• Rubber feet on bottom
• Access to gear is a bit cumbersome
• Plastic clasps seem flimsy

The Amazon Basics Large DSLR Gadget Bag ($43) is true to its name; it is a great, basic camera bag. With tons of pockets and adjustable inserts, it can fit a full-frame camera body, two to three lenses, and a decent amount of gear like cards, batteries, and a small tablet. 

If you’re feeling brave, more gear could fit into this bag. The inside is surprisingly roomy for how small the bag first seems, and the extra pockets stretch out a small amount.

This well-padded bag protects your gear, and it even boasts rubber feet at the base, so there are no worries about wearing down the bottom when you need to set it down. 

Although the material is not considered “water resistant,” it does well at repelling moisture. During a hot day outside, the bag got a little warm, but it kept the camera and gear relatively cool. 

One of our gripes was the difficulty we had getting into the bag quickly. There is no easy-access zipper or opening, so you must unclip and open the top of the bag toward your body. But there is a “belt loop” where you can hook your camera body, or even a spare camera, for quick grabs in fast moments.

Our other concern is that the straps are not the most supportive so the bag can feel a little heavy and get hard on the neck and shoulders depending on how much gear you pack. If you’re used to bringing your entire kit on every walk or adventure, you’ll want to be more choosy when using this bag. 

The Amazon Basics Large DSLR Gadget Bag is a good starter bag for a reasonable price. If you’re a photographer who doesn’t lug around a lot of accessories, or if you work smaller events that don’t require a huge amount of gear, this is the bag for you. 

Fosoto Waterproof Anti-Shock Camera Bag

• Weight 0.58 lbs. / 0.26 kg
• Outer dimensions 7.8” x 5.9” x 4.3”
• Inner dimensions 7” x 5.1” x 3.9”
• Materials Nylon, mesh pocket

• Adjustable and comfortable strap
• Water-resistant bag is equipped with extra rain cover
• Padded anti-shock interior
• Cannot go into water or heavy downpour
• Not a lot of extra space
• Plastic clips could break

Like the Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Bag , the FOSOTO Waterproof Anti-Shock Bag ($21) is mainly for smaller-bodied cameras. It is an ideal holster bag for nature walks or simple vacations. 

This bag can be worn over the shoulder or at your hip. The excess strap could be used to carry a compact tripod; anything larger would exceed the size of the bag. The quick-release buckle allows easy DSLR access, and the anti-shock interior and padding keep the gear safe from outside forces. 

The inside zipper mesh pocket holds small gear like extra cords, batteries, and memory cards. The mesh is slightly thinner than other bags with a mesh pouch, and the zipper does not run as smoothly but does stretch enough to fit small accessories.  

The water-resistant exterior keeps your camera dry in light rain, and the rain cover that comes with it protects against heavier showers. It also stayed reasonably cool while in warm weather. 

It provides enough protection for a small-to-medium DSLR, and it is easy to carry with the straps. While testing, Clement found that the top handle also made it easy to move the bag around her body while taking photos. It was lightweight enough to keep her neck and shoulders from getting too fatigued after a few hours of walking. 

The FOSOTO Waterproof Anti-Shock Bag is perfect for beginner or hobbyist photographers. It is compact and provides enough protection that a professional photographer could easily fit into a larger camera bag. Given its protection, the low price point makes the bag a solid, affordable option.

CADeN Canvas Camera Bag

• Weight 1.87 lbs. / 0.85 kg
• Outside dimensions 16” x 8”x 9.5”
• Inside dimensions 11.81” x 5.12”x 7.87”
• Materials Canvas fabric, polyester, waterproof faux leather straps

• A tripod can be attached at the bottom
• Waterproof canvas
• Removable inserts can be used to make a small duffle bag
• Stylish design
• No padding on the outside
• Not a lot of organization in the pockets
• Snaps aren’t the best
• Not super comfortable to carry

As far as aesthetics go, the CADeN Canvas Camera Bag ($55) is for photographers who enjoy that vintage travel look. It is made of thick, waterproof canvas with leather straps and brass buckles. There are hidden snaps under these buckles, so you can quickly access your gear by simply unsnapping them without needing to unbuckle anything. 

The side pockets could be great for storing a water bottle or cleaning tools like a microfiber cloth or lens blower. We found this bag, designed to be worn over the shoulder, a bit too cumbersome even with the adjustable strap.

The adjustable straps mean the bag can fit a wide range of people, but the straps don’t really stay put if you are running or moving around a lot. The zippers, although strong, don’t move as smoothly as the zippers on some other bags. 

The inserts are not as padded as other bags we tested, but they are removable meaning the CADeN could be used as an overnight duffle rather than the traditional camera bag. The inserts could also be replaced with more padded options.  This bag, which also has straps for a tripod, could easily hold a bigger camera body and a couple of lenses, but we worry that the canvas wouldn’t be enough to protect such a load.  

At a mid-level price, the CADeN is a decent bag with stylish aesthetics; the worn canvas and leather straps are detailed to the last stitch. Its discreet look means it could be used for small events or street photography.

However, if you don’t have a lot of gear to put around the inserts, they are not stable enough to stay in place and could cause shifting within the bag. If you have a lot of gear, it quickly gets heavy on your shoulders. This bag is ideal for situations where you can put the bag down often or store it somewhere during the shoot. 

Overall, the CADeN Canvas Camera Bag is a beautiful option for casual photographers with light gear looking for just enough pockets and a roomy interior. 

Camera Bags Comparison Chart

How We Tested Camera Bags

The best way to test a camera bag is to fill it with the gear you need and put it to use “in the wild.” So, that’s exactly what our tester, Katelyn Clement, and her partner, Ethan Weise (also a professional photographer), did. With 20 years of photography experience, this dynamic duo made the ideal team to determine each bag’s performance.  

Clement’s first goal was to test whether manufacturer claims for materials between “water resistant” and completely “weatherproof” held up. Cameras, lenses, and associated equipment are never cheap. And, you don’t want something as simple as a fabric to damage an expensive lens.  

In addition to photography experience, Clement and her partner have almost 30 years of outdoor experience. They hike, camp, and raft in every free moment. They hiked these bags through forests and along muddy creeks for a couple of months. They set them down in wet gravel and used them in snow, rain, and sunshine.

Their discovery? Practically all manufacturers were honest when they claimed materials were water-resistant or weatherproof. A few of the less durable bags may show signs of wear sooner (we’ll report on this in our next update), but they survived our initial outdoor test.

The next test came when our testers were hired for photo events. Some of these bags are geared toward professional photographers, so she knew they needed to be compared against one another. At crowded events, bumps and spilled or sloshed drinks are inevitable. Thus, they offered a great opportunity to test durability and protection.

And, of course, comfort is key for any type of camera bag. They also made sure to wear each bag for at least a few hours at a time without a break.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Camera Backpack

The best way to choose a camera bag is to first look at how and where you will be using your bag. Are you a hobbyist who loves going on nature hikes with your DSLR and taking bird photos? Do you just do one-on-one shoots like engagements or family portraits? Or do you work large-scale events that require multiple full-frame camera bodies and several lenses? These answers will guide you in choosing the best bag that fits your needs.  

You’ll want to consider various factors including bag size, amount of protection, comfortability, aesthetics, durability, accessibility, and storage. Knowing how and where you will use your camera bag will guide you to the right bag for your needs. 

All the bags above that our team has tested will first and foremost protect your camera. These are over-the-shoulder and messenger-style bags that will serve you whether you are on a nature hike or working a wedding. If you prefer a backpack-style camera bag to protect your precious cargo, check out our guide to the Best Camera Backpacks . 

It’s important to find a bag that will protect your gear and last a long time. Bags with water-resistant or waterproof outer shells will keep your equipment dry and moisture-free. Materials like polyurethane laminate (PUL), vinyl, polyester, nylon, or Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), like those in the Tenba DNA16 PRO Messenger Bag , are commonly used in water-resistant or weatherproof bags.

Seams, bases, and zippers are weak spots where moisture can get in even if the materials are waterproof. YKK zippers are high quality and are often found on the best camera bags. So, choose a bag with a seam-sealed base and solid zippers. The Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag and the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L have these important features.

Finding a camera bag that’s the right size for every situation is challenging. But, choosing a bag that meets your needs most of the time is essential. You don’t want a bag that is too small to hold the number of lenses you need, but you also don’t want a giant bag that requires digging to find what you need. The wrong size bag will be inconvenient and could potentially damage your gear.  

Photographers with single point-and-shoot cameras will want a compact bag like the FOSOTO Waterproof Anti-Shock Bag with padding and protection. An event photographer will need space for two camera bodies and several lenses, SD cards, and a tripod. 

Camera bags often come in a range of sizes measured in liters. For example, the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L comes in 3, 6, and 9L sizes. Some bags, like the Peak Design Everyday V2 6L Sling , have a 10L option. A 3L bag works best for a small camera with one lens while a 6-liter bag fits a few more lenses. A 9L to 10L bag is perfect for multiple full-frame cameras, lenses, and accessories. 

A comfortable bag is important, especially considering how much gear will be crammed into it and how long you will be on your feet. An adjustable, padded strap allows you to move the bag according to your height. Padding keeps the strap from digging into your neck. We found that the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L offered the most comfort because it had adjustable straps, a strap pad, and extra padding in strategic places.

Bags that provide two or three different ways to wear them are a plus. Over-the-shoulder will give you quick access to your gear. Making your bag into a cross-body will keep your shoulder and neck from knotting up. A bag with the hip holster-style carry will keep your arms free while giving fast access. If your body is sore after a long shoot, cruise over to our guide to the Best Foam Rollers . Hopefully, you’ll find some relief.

Accessibility

Another important thing to consider when choosing a camera bag is accessibility to your camera and equipment. If you are out for a stroll and you see a bird you want to capture, or you are at a wedding and the groom does something spontaneous, you need to be able to reach into your bag and quickly grab your camera. 

Enter the easy-access zipper. These zippers allow you to reach into the bag instead of opening the main flap. The Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag has this zipper at the very top of the bag. It has a smooth glide and is large enough to fit your whole arm in.  

Another easy-access feature is when the flap or top of the bag is designed to open away from your body. The Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag has such a feature. A top that opens toward your body creates one more obstacle for getting to your camera, while a flap that opens away makes for a quick grab.

Your budget plays a role in which bag you choose. But, considering the cost of the equipment you’re trying to protect, it’s crucial to choose a high-quality bag. The Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag can fit your budget while offering a solid amount of protection and padding.  

Camera bags can be more expensive than general messengers or slings because of the added padding and protective materials.

A more expensive bag, like the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag , is probably worth the $200 if it means that your lens and several other pieces of expensive camera equipment stay as safe and protected as possible.

However, some very good, more affordable options, like the Amazon Basics Bag ($43) and the CADeN Canvas Camera Bag ($45), offer a solid amount of protection at a reasonable price. They both have the protection and room for a couple of cameras and lenses. 

Special Features

Bags’ special features will vary, but small details make the best camera bags. The Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag includes their exclusive Whisper Hook, a clasp that easily slides undone and snaps back together magnetically. 

Good quality bags have the YKK zippers, as mentioned in the materials section above . The easy-access zipper on the Tenba makes a quick grab more efficient and manageable.

Sometimes, we find special features in the oddest of places. The WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L has a “secret” pouch at the bottom of the bag that could hold a light rain jacket, poncho, water bottle, or small tripod. The small pocket at the bottom of this sling hides an excess strap, which can be used to secure items tethered to the outside of the bag.  

Choose the bag based on how you will use it.

Will you be hiking? Pick a camera backpack.

Will you be using it for travel? Pick something lightweight that fits carry-on regulations.

Will you be shooting big events with lots of people? Pick a well-padded bag with shock resistance so that if someone runs into you, you won’t feel panicked about checking your bag for broken gear.

Will you be out all day or constantly need to change cameras and lenses? Choose a larger bag that easily holds a camera body or two, the appropriate accompanying lenses, and pockets with spare batteries and backup cards. 

The number of cameras and lenses you want to carry will determine the type of camera bag you choose. If all you have is a simple point-and-shoot, the Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag would be best. If you have a DSLR, a bag at least an inch or two larger than the body will give it room. If you need to bring multiple camera bodies and lenses to an event, a larger bag with many pockets, like the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag , is ideal. 

Short answer: No. If you feel like risking it, you can keep your camera in a regular bag. But the likelihood that your camera will be damaged is increased. And if you’re attached to your bag, you can always buy a padded camera cube and then place it in the bag.

However, a camera bag be safer for your camera and will also keep your peripherals organized. This ensures you have access to everything you need when you need it.

Whether you are working an event outside or indoors, your camera bag should at least be water resistant. If it rains, the bag will keep your gear dry while you seek shelter or slip on a rain sleeve. If you’re shooting an indoor event, chances are you will sweat from running around and being in a crowded room.

You’ll want your bag to keep your equipment dry if it’s at your hip or on your back all night. Your sweat will soak through as easily as water. A weatherproof bag is ideal. But, anything that is water or weather-resistant will also work by offering some protection. 

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

The Best Camera Backpacks of 2024

We tested the best camera backpacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Lowepro, Peak Design, and more!

Katelyn Clement is a freelance writer and content creator.  She has been writing feature articles and product reviews for about eight years. She was first published in GearJunkie in 2024.

Before that, Katelyn worked as an editor for her university’s publications, The Mirror (newspaper), The EDDA (yearbook), and began the first campus student podcast, Light Reflections during her senior year. She continued her journalism career by becoming a news broadcaster at KELO Radio for two years, before ultimately deciding to switch gears and focus more on featured articles, blogs, product reviews, visual content, and editing.

Based in South Dakota, Katelyn spends her free time reading, biking, playing with polaroid cameras, and forwarding the life expectancy of her eardrums at punk concerts.

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11 Best Camera Backpacks for Travel in 2024

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Think “backpack,” and you probably think “travel.” But a camera backpack fills a special role. And it needs to do it well if it’s going to protect your gear—and your back!

In choosing the best camera backpack for travel, we were less concerned about accessibility and ease of use. Our main criteria were protection and comfort. But, of course, the best camera backpacks will shine in all areas.

Our top three choices are no exception. In fact, our favorite camera backpack for travel came second overall in our extensive review of the best camera backpacks . And even then, it missed the top spot by only a whisker. It’s brilliantly designed, roomy, and comfortable to wear.

If you buy a product through one of our referral links we will earn a commission (without costing you anything). Prices last updated on .

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What Is the Best Camera Backpack for Travel?

We will tell you more about why we like these recommended camera backpacks. But first, here’s a table with a summary of their strengths.

• Super-comfortable and practical design
• Unparalleled functionality and design precision
• Exceptional sturdiness, adaptability, and comfort
• Spacious structure perfect for serious photographers
• More than 50 years of gear-making experience
• Top-notch construction with robust, weather-resistant materials
• Thoughtfully designed features for enhanced user experience
• Compact and lightweight, perfect for travel photographers
• Ample storage with protective padding for equipment safety
• Worth the investment for its superior quality and durability
• Designed for speedy access and convenience
• Lightweight nylon material and quick-access design
• Minimal yet strategic padding for comfort and security
• Features QuickDoor access for easy and quick retrieval
• Lightweight and practical for everyday use

• Designed by renowned manufacturer and famous photographer
• Versatile storage with "ladder" insert and removable cubes
• Lightweight yet ensures gear safety with superior quality
• Comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind
• Stylish design exudes class, elevating it beyond a simple camera bag

• Offers impressive carrying capacity
• Lightweight design for easy travel
• Provides professional-level gear storage
• Showcases innovative design elements
• Comes with a lifetime warranty for quality assurance

• Ideal for casual photographers with its simple, lightweight design
• Superior all-weather resistance in a stylish black camo design
• Durable and tear-resistant, perfect for urban environments
• Middle-range placement for value, offering good features at an affordable price
• Large volume version offering ample space for equipment

• Rugged design for outdoor enthusiasts
• Durable materials ensure longevity
• Offers high level of protection for gear
• Versatile storage with customizable dividers
• Excellent weather protection for outdoor shoots

• Designed specifically for air travel
• Compact and lightweight with efficient space usage
• Features useful straps, handles, and security lock
• Comes with a lifetime warranty for long-term use
• Offers excellent storage capacity and solid protection

• Designed by photographers for outdoor enthusiasts
• Durable materials with room for large lenses
• Excellent weather protection for outdoor expeditions
• Versatile enough for air travel and endorsed by renowned photographers
• Ample storage with features like a laptop sleeve and tripod strap.

• Designed for versatility, blending seamlessly into any setting
• Withstands various environments, from city streets to harsh climates
• Unique front camera insert for discreet, easy access to gear
• Customizable compartments for convenient organization
• Ideal for travel and street photographers carrying minimal gear

• Designed by photographers for maximum utility
• Lightweight with high-tech weatherproof materials
• Tailored for mirrorless cameras but versatile for DSLRs
• Packed with thoughtful details and customization options
• Eco-friendly production in a carbon-neutral factory

Our Favorite Camera Backpacks for Travel

We’ll now look at what these camera backpacks have that makes them so suitable for travel. As you’ll see, it’s a blend of design, practicality, comfort, and protection. So let’s go over what these travel bags have that provides the optimum mix of those criteria.

You’ll also find a link to our in-depth review of each bag. And there you can see how we made our judgments and lots more detail about each bag.

1. Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader Camera Backpack

The Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader is a camera backpack that truly stands out. Manfrotto is a brand well-known for high-quality photography accessories. And it shows in this bag.

This bag is designed thoughtfully, with a focus on functionality and detail. So it’s no surprise that it’s a favorite among professionals.

This backpack’s design might be a little dull for some. But its virtues lie elsewhere. It’s sturdy, spacious, and versatile. So it’s perfect for travel.

Its comfort and adaptability are impressive, but it’s not for everyone. There are other options if you’re after a lightweight bag for a day trip.

The Multiloader’s design maximizes interior space. The quality of materials used is top-notch. And the backpack is constructed to a high standard. So it’s a reliable choice for carrying expensive camera gear.

It may take some time to figure out the configuration options. But once you work them out, you’ve got a bag that works as a backpack, a duffel, and a sling .

It has access from the front and both sides. And the rain cover is reversible, with the other side reflective and providing protection from the intense sun.

So if you’re on the lookout for a sturdy, spacious camera backpack for travel, the PRO Light Multiloader is worth considering. It’s a worthwhile investment for serious photographers.

In our full review of the Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader camera backpack , we scored it 84.9 out of 100. It’s particularly suited for taking all the gear you need for a whole day’s shoot.

If you want to see how this compares to the other camera backpacks for travel we reviewed, read our article on the best camera backpacks .

2. Wandrd Duo Daypack Camera Backpack

The Wandrd Duo Daypack is a fantastic travel companion for the avid photographer. Its robust construction and lightweight design ensure it’s both durable and easy to carry.

Crafted from quality materials, this backpack offers excellent weather protection. It safeguards your camera and equipment very well from the elements.

Wandrd is a company born from a passion for photography and wanderlust. And their vision is evident in the Duo Daypack’s design. It boasts many features that enhance user experience, making it more than just a storage solution.

It has a couple of minor drawbacks, like additional purchases for the tripod straps and hip belt. But the Duo Daypack provides ample storage.

Its versatile pockets can accommodate a variety of items, ensuring all your gear is secure and organized. And the main zipper allows easy access when you need to grab your camera quickly.

It leans towards the higher end of the price spectrum. But the Duo Daypack is worth every penny.

It features high-quality construction, thoughtful design, and overall functionality. So it’s a worthy investment for any travel photographer.

In our full review of the Wandrd Duo Daypack camera backpack , we gave it a score of 82.6 out of 100. You can compare how it fared against all others we tested in our best camera backpack post.

Use our discount code EXPERTPHOTOGRAPHY at checkout for 15% off your first order!

3. Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III Camera Backpack

The Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III is a camera backpack designed with convenience in mind, making it perfect for travel. It’s made of lightweight nylon material and has a QuickDoor access system.

This makes it a game-changer for on-the-go photographers. So it’s ideal for photojournalists and wedding photographers who need to act quickly to capture the perfect shot.

Despite its focus on speed and convenience, the Fastpack Pro doesn’t compromise on protection. The camera compartment has strategic padding for keeping your gear safe.

But its padding for the wearer could be improved. While it provides padding in the right places, it’s quite minimal and may not be as comfortable for long periods.

The QuickDoor access combines the best of side and full compartment access, providing flexibility and ease of use. So its lightweight design and quick access make it a practical everyday backpack for many photographers.

In terms of design, the Fastpack Pro is functional and user-friendly. It has a boxy shape that utilizes space effectively.

Plus, small protective features demonstrate Lowepro’s attention to detail. It has a fleece-lined section for valuables and a raised laptop compartment. It’s a camera bag built by photographers for photographers.

In our full review of the Lowepro Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III , we gave it a score of 81.5 out of 100. To check out how this compares to the other camera backpacks for travel we reviewed, read our article on the best camera backpacks .

4. Nomatic McKinnon 25L Camera Backpack

The Nomatic McKinnon 25L camera backpack is a stellar choice for travel. It’s a result of a unique collaboration between a renowned backpack manufacturer and a famous photographer.

The result is a stylish, lightweight, yet incredibly safe bag. The “ladder” insert and removable cubes add versatility that’s hard to beat.

Nomatic is a brand known for its quality and innovation. Their lifetime warranty on the McKinnon backpack is a testament to their confidence in the product.

Its design and build quality are impressive, with ripstop 80/20 nylon and polyethylene fabric adding to its durability.

The Nomatic McKinnon 25L isn’t just a camera bag. It’s a travel companion that offers style and flexibility without compromising protection.

Its only shortcoming might be the lack of quick-access side opening, but the top access arrangements somewhat make up for it. This backpack is an ideal investment for any photographer on the move.

In our full review of the Nomatic McKinnon 25L camera backpack , we scored it 79.2 out of 100. It is a truly good-looking bag while still being functional.

Read our review of all the best camera backpacks . It shows you how they all stack up against each other.

Use our discount code EXPERT15 at checkout for an extra 15% off!

5. Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L Camera Backpack

The Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L is a camera backpack that exudes the spirit of adventure. Born from a collaboration of photography enthusiasts, it reflects the mountain climbing heritage of its creators.

The backpack is lightweight and boasts an impressive carrying capacity. So it’s perfect for travel photographers. Small rucksacks inspire its design, but it doesn’t skimp on the essentials of a camera bag.

The bag offers ample storage for professional-level gear. It’s also fitted with multiple fixing points for extra gear, making it a practical choice for hikers or climbers.

But it does have some downsides. Its rucksack vibe might not appeal to everyone. And the padding between the sides and the interior could be improved for better equipment protection.

But despite these minor drawbacks, the MindShift BackLight 18L remains a top contender in camera backpack reviews. It’s a reliable companion for those travel photography adventures.

Our full review of the Think Tank MindShift BackLight 18L camera backpack  gave it a score of 76.1 out of 100. We reckon it’s one of the best for hiking.

But it also works as a general travel camera backpack. You’ll find out how it compares to the other camera backpacks for travel in our article on the best camera backpacks .

6. Tenba Fulton V2 Camera Backpack

The Tenba Fulton V2 is a camera backpack perfect for travel photographers. And its lightweight and simple design also makes it an ideal choice for everyday use.

The bag’s all-weather design ensures superior protection against harsh elements. This makes it perfect for photographers who often work in unpredictable weather conditions.

Despite not being the most feature-rich bag, the Fulton V2 provides value for the right photographer. Its simplicity and durability are perfect for street photographers. And the lightweight nature of the bag makes it a comfortable choice for long days of shooting.

A slight drawback is the limited storage space for personal items. But this isn’t much of an issue for urban photographers who don’t carry many personal items.

The Tenba Fulton V2 is a solid camera backpack that offers good value. Its all-weather design and lightweight nature make it a great travel companion for photographers. It may not have all the bells and whistles of other bags, but it does the job well.

In our full review of the Tenba Fulton V2 Camera Backpack , we scored it 76 out of 100. You can see how this compares to the other camera backpacks for travel we reviewed by reading our article on the best camera backpacks .

7. Thule Covert 32L Camera Backpack

The Thule Covert 32L camera backpack is a top-notch travel choice for photographers. Its robust build quality and durable materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.

The Swedish brand, Thule, has a longstanding reputation for quality outdoor equipment. And the Covert backpack is no exception.

Despite being on the heavier side, its weight is justified by its superior construction and functionality. It offers ample storage and customizable padded dividers, making it versatile for different gear setups.

Its weather protection is excellent, safeguarding your equipment from the elements. But the main drawback is its weight. At 4.7 lb (2.14 kg) empty, it’s noticeably heavier than many other camera backpacks.

But traveling photographers who want durability and protection over lightweight convenience will find this a good investment. It’s designed to withstand the challenges of outdoor travel, And it’s a reliable companion for your photo adventures.

In our full review of the Thule Covert 32L camera backpack , we gave it a score of 75.4 out of 100. It’s in our top ten of the best camera backpacks , and you can see how the others fared as well.

8. Think Tank Airport Essentials Camera Backpack

The Think Tank Airport Essentials camera backpack is designed specifically for air travel. It offers an efficient design and useful features.

It’s compact and lightweight. Yet it provides excellent storage capacity and solid protection for your gear. Despite its lack of versatility, it serves as reliable hand luggage for photographers on the move.

The backpack’s outer material is a robust, canvas-like, woven 600D polyester. And it has a water-repellent coating for light showers. For heavier downpours, a removable waterproof cover is provided.

The interior is a blend of polyester and nylon. And it features a layer of soft nylon, providing some protection for your gear.

Security is a major plus with the Airport Essentials. All external zippers have hoops for attaching locks. And there’s a built-in cable lock.

It has limited flexibility. But this camera backpack excels in storage capacity, protection, and design. So it’s a smart choice for photographers who frequently travel. Plus, the bag’s lifetime warranty also adds value. 

Our full review of the Think Tank Airport Essentials camera backpack gave it a score of 75.4 out of 100. This put it in the top ten camera backpacks we reviewed. You can read the article on the best camera backpacks to learn more about all the bags we tested.

9. Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 22L Camera Backpack

Renowned for its durable materials and ample room for large lenses, the Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 22L camera backpack is an excellent choice as a travel backpack. It’s also ideal for wildlife and outdoor photographers.

Its robust outer frame offers solid protection, while the interior could use slightly more padding. But it has weather-resistant X-Pac VX-21 outer material. And it includes a waterproof cover to ensure excellent weather protection. So it’s ideal for outdoor expeditions and air travel alike.

The Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 does have its drawbacks. The butterfly opening design may frustrate some photographers. And the dual opening on the front could limit the bag’s flexibility and capacity.

On the other hand, some photographers love the order and ease of use they provide. It’s also worth noting that this bag is pricier, which could be a deterrent for some.

Despite this, the bag has many strengths, making it a worthy contender for those seeking a reliable travel camera backpack. This includes robust shoulder straps and useful features like a laptop sleeve, tripod strap, and water bottle holder.

Plus, it’s endorsed by world-renowned photographers. So, all in all, the Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 is a solid investment for photographers who prioritize durability and weather protection.

In our full review of the Gura Gear Kiboko V2.0 22L camera backpack , we gave it a score of 72.9 out of 100. You can see how it compares to others we reviewed in our article on the best camera backpacks . You’ll also find details of all the bags we tested and how we made our choices.

10. Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Camera Backpack

The Tenba DNA 16 DSLR camera backpack perfectly blends style and functionality. This bag is the epitome of versatility. It transitions between various scenarios effortlessly, making it ideal for travel and street photography.

It is designed for on-the-go photographers and offers a unique front camera insert that opens like a mailbox. This provides easy and discreet access to your gear. 

Durability is another strong suit of the Tenba DNA 16. It’s built to last, from the bustling streets of New York to the extreme cold of Antarctica.

It doesn’t just look good, but it’s also made to protect your camera gear in any weather condition. Made from weatherproof materials, it promises to withstand all environments. 

Despite its robust build, the Tenba DNA 16 keeps a low profile. Its sleek design blends seamlessly into any setting, making it less likely to attract unwanted attention. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who prefer to keep a low profile while traveling.

But the Tenba DNA 16 has its drawbacks. Its camera compartment is rather small. And the padding is thin, which may not provide adequate protection for your gear. This makes it more suitable for photographers who carry minimal gear.

In essence, this is a well-rounded camera backpack for travel photographers. Its unique design, durability, and versatility make it a worthy contender in the market. But its limited camera compartment might be a deal-breaker for photographers with more extensive gear.

In our full review of the Tenba DNA 16 DSLR camera backpack , we gave it a score of 72.5 out of 100. If you would like to see how this compares to the other camera backpacks for travel we reviewed, then check out our article on the best camera backpacks .

11. Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ Camera Backpack

The Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ camera backpack is a product of photographers’ insights. And it’s an ideal travel companion.

It’s lightweight. It’s made from high-tech weatherproof materials. And it offers superior protection for camera gear. It’s designed to accommodate mirrorless cameras but can also fit a full frame DSLR.

This backpack is not just about protection. It’s also about convenience and organization. It has various dividers, allowing you to customize the space according to your needs.

It also features a laptop and tablet section. And both are padded for extra protection.

But the Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter isn’t just about functionality. It’s about responsibility too. The main component, the external fabric, is produced in a carbon-neutral factory. This makes it a great choice for the eco-conscious photographer.

But, like any product, it’s not perfect. Some may find its design a bit mundane.

Also, accessing the main flap requires removing the bag, which can be inconvenient for some. But these are minor issues and don’t overshadow its overall performance.

In our full review of the Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ Camera Backpack , we gave it a score of 72.1 out of 100. See how we came to this decision and how it compares to other travel options with our review of the best camera backpacks .

Conclusion: The Best Camera Backpacks for Travel

An ideal camera backpack for travel isn’t necessarily about being able to change lenses quickly or how easy it is to attach your walking poles . The best hiking camera backpack isn’t necessarily the best travel bag.

Let’s face it, most travel to far-flung places is by plane. So we need to be confident that our gear will be safe and easy to carry through the airport and onto the plane. That’s why some of our top picks are about capacity rather than convenience.

That said, what impressed us most at ExpertPhotography is just how good the best camera backpacks are. They turn up again and again, whatever category we are looking at.

We love these top three camera backpacks for travel. But we think you’d do well to check out the others to find the perfect solution for your needs.

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The best camera bags for travel in 2023

Keep your camera gear safe during your next adventure with these excellent camera bags.

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One excellent way to keep your gear safe when on the go is to invest in quality camera bags for travel. They truly are an essential piece of your photography kit. Being able to confidently carry your equipment no matter where your travels take you can open new creative doors and allow you to photograph even more. Whether you are hopping on a plane, going on a road trip, or simply spending the day exploring your own city, having a dedicated bag to store and carry your equipment makes a big difference. Travel cases for cameras not only keep your expensive gear safe from the inevitable jostling around of travel, but they can also help you stay organized and save you some headaches when away from home. We’ve picked these outstanding options as the best camera bags for travel.

• Best overall: WANDRD PRVKE
• Best rugged: Shimoda Explore V2
• Best for hiking: Moment Strohl Mountain Light
• Best belt bag: Domke 5XA
• Best sling bag: Peak Design 10L Everyday Sling V2
• Best roller bag: Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Switch-55
• Best protection: Pelican Air 1615

How we chose the best camera bags for travel 

When selecting the bags in this guide, we considered choices from well-trusted brands, a wide variety of styles, and bags suitable for several different travel scenarios. We also put thought into the different amounts and types of gear that a photographer or videographer might need to bring along with them while traveling. For example, it was critical to include bags suitable for long-haul trips with lots of gear and more suitable options for day trips around a new city with more basic camera equipment. It was also important to only include items and brands that we’ve had experience using in the field or tested as part of a product review.  

The best camera bags for travel: Reviews & recommendations

• Color options: Black, Aegean Blue, Wasatch Green, Yuma Tan, Sedona Orange
• Laptop sleeve: Yes, up to 16 inches
• Exterior dimensions: 19 x 12.5 x 7.5 inches
• Weight: 3.4 lbs
• Bag type: Backpack
• Durable, waterproof build 
• Multi-use, versatile bag
• Lots of organization pockets for personal items
• Camera cube must be purchased separately

The WNDRD PRVKE is one of our favorite camera backpacks on the market—a versatile choice for traveling that’s accompanied us on many out-of-town shooting trips. It can hold a lot of gear while doing an excellent job of distributing weight. The dedicated camera cube and laptop sleeve make it easy to travel through airport security, and its many pockets are great for keeping personal items organized as well. The roll-top design allows you to expand its carrying capacity by five full liters, making it easy to toss a jacket or other essentials on top. And it has clever travel-friendly features like a key clip and a passport pocket. 

A left-side pocket makes it easy to access your camera without removing the bag from your body, which is useful when you are on the go. The abrasion-resistant and waterproof material of the bag will keep your gear safe and dry, an ideal feature for the best camera bag for travel. It’s available in 21L and 31L, or if you are looking to carry less, you can check out the PRVKE Lite, which is 11L. If you are traveling with minimal camera equipment, you PRVKE the best camera bag for travel.

Mason Marsh

• Color options: Black, Olive Green
• Exterior dimensions: 11.6 x 20.3 x 6.7 inches
• Weight: 8.8 pounds
• Adjustable torso height
• Water-resistant
• Meets EU and Asian carry-on requirements 
• Removable camera cube 
• Also available in 25 or 35L sizes

Shimoda designed the Explore V2 with the idea that different people need different bags, and what’s comfortable for one person won’t work for everyone. To do this, they created the ability to adjust the torso height of the bag, a unique feature that will make it more comfortable to carry for different torso lengths. Plus, Shimoda sells different strap types to accommodate different bodies. The backpack also comes in three different sizes (25, 30, and 35L), with the 30L able to hold a medium mirrorless camera or a compact DSLR.

Built with travel in mind, the Explore V2 meets the strictest requirements of EU and Asian carry-on rules. Plus, it has a luggage passthrough, lockable zippers, a passport pocket, and a dual-access document sleeve. In addition, it has pockets on both sides for stashing a tripod and water bottle and multiple access points for camera equipment—including side access.

The bag features highly weather-resistant material and YKK AquaGuard zippers, so your gear will stay dry if you get caught in a brief rain shower. It also comes with a rain cover for more severe downpours. The Shimoda’s Explore V2 is one of the best camera bags for travel when you’ll find yourself exploring the outdoors with your camera. We liked it so much, we gave it a Pop Award as one of the best pieces of gear around.

Abby Ferguson

• Color options:  Black or Blue
• Laptop sleeve:  None
• External dimensions:  31.5 x 10.5 inches
• Weight:  2.6 pounds
• Holds a lot of gear beyond camera equipment
• Compatible with water bladders
• Durable and waterproof
• Collapses down for packing
• Doesn’t hold much camera gear

If your travels are taking you on longer hikes that require more gear than just a jacket and some snacks, the Moment Strohl Mountain Light is a fantastic choice. It comes in two different torso lengths—17-18.5 inches and 18+ inches— so you can get a better-fitting bag for your body. And there are plenty of straps to adjust the fit once it’s on.

This hiking camera bag is a stuff sack style with a small camera compartment at the bottom. You’ll either need to buy the MTN Light Camera Insert or use your own internal camera unit (ICU). It’s important to note that this bag isn’t meant to hold a ton of camera gear. Instead, it’s for those who want to travel light and fast or are prioritizing hiking and camping gear over cameras. But, with the addition of the Camera Loader , you’ll get a little extra room and faster access to your camera.

One of the biggest selling points is how lightweight this camera backpack is. It weighs just 2.6 pounds when empty. And the internal frame is removable if you want to cut down on weight even more. It packs down super small, so you can easily toss it in your luggage to use on longer trips. The pack is compatible with a hydration bladder and can expand a lot, making it capable of holding lots of gear when you need it to. I went on a two-day backpacking trip with it and was able to carry everything I needed, and it was still relatively comfortable.

• Color options: Black
• Laptop sleeve: None
• Exterior dimensions: 8 x 8 x 4.5 inches
• Weight: 1 pound
• Bag type: Shoulder/belt
• Can be worn on a belt or as a shoulder bag
• Compact, lightweight option
• Durable canvas build 
• Doesn’t fit large DSLRs or long lenses

Domke is a classic camera brand if you are looking for an inconspicuous bag for a small camera body. This particular version can be worn over your shoulder or attached to your belt—making it a great choice for using in conjunction with a larger backpack for easy access to lenses or a flash. 

The canvas bag features a padded divider wall to keep lenses and camera bodies safe when they aren’t in use. Two small pockets on the front of the bag allow for the storage of small accessories like memory cards or a spare battery. Made of durable, water-resistant material, it will age beautifully over time—there’s a good reason why this style of bag has been a long-time favorite of photojournalists. Although we wouldn’t recommend this for long-haul travel, this Domke bag is an excellent option if you are looking for something compact and straightforward and you won’t be straying far from home. 

Peak Design

• Color options: Ash, Black
• Laptop sleeve : Yes, up to 13 inches
• Exterior dimensions: 16.5 x 9.8 x 5.5 inches
• Weight: 1.94 pounds with dividers, 1.5 pounds without dividers
• Bag type: Sling 
• Quick adjusting, padded shoulder strap
• External strap for attaching a tripod
• Unique flexifold Peak Design dividers
• 13″ laptop sleeve is a bit snug if bag is fully packed
• Front stash pocket could be slightly larger 

Peak Design’s Sling bag is an excellent choice for the best camera bag for travel if you are shooting mirrorless or favor a DSLR with a short lens. It has a nicely padded reversible shoulder strap that you can adjust easily with a quick pull feature. On the inside, you will find three of Peak Design’s signature FlexFold dividers for keeping camera lenses and bodies safe and secure during travel and a laptop sleeve that can hold up to a 13-inch laptop or a tablet. A front zippered pocket on the sling bag is best suited for small, flat items—like a memory card. 

Peak Design made their Everyday Sling out of 100 percent recycled material. It has a weatherproof exterior and anodized aluminum hardware. As a sling bag, it doesn’t have the capacity of a Peak Design backpack, but if your travel setup is minimal, this is a good choice. 

• Laptop sleeve: Yes, up to 17 inches
• Exterior dimensions: 13.98 x 9.06 x 21.65 inches
• Bag type: Roller backpack
• Can be used as a backpack and roller bag
• Built-in padlock keeps gear secure
• Durable and weather-resistant
• Holds a ton of gear

If you need a lot of gear, and thus a larger bag, having wheels can save your back during long airport days. The Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Switch looks like a traditional carry-on suitcase and offers a useful wheeled format. But it also provides backpack straps, making it easier to transport the bag when you get away from terrain that makes sense for a wheeled bag.

This bag holds a ton of gear, making it ideal for pros who need an entire kit with them. It can hold a pro-level DSLR with a 40mm attached along with another body and up to four extra lenses. Mirrorless shooters will have no issues fitting expansive kits as well. There’s also a pocket on the side for attaching a tripod and a laptop sleeve that can hold up to a 17-inch laptop. The sleeve is quite narrow, though, so thick laptops won’t fit very well.

Manfrotto’s roller bag fits international carry-on sizes , so you won’t need worry about checking it, at least on larger airplanes. And it features a built-in TSA-approved padlock to keep your gear locked up and safe. It’s made of durable materials that are weather-resistant and is complete with straps on the inside of the bag to keep the lid from opening too far, which is ideal for busy airports.

• Color options: Black, Yellow, Silver, Orange, Graphite
• Laptop sleeve: No
• Exterior dimensions: 32.58 x 18.40 x 11.02 inches
• Weight: 14.06 pounds without foam or TrekPak dividers
• Bag type: Wheeled hard case
• Extremely durable construction 
• Padded protection in a crushproof, dustproof, and watertight container
• 40 percent lighter than other polymer cases 
• Expensive 

Though not technically a bag, the Pelican Air is the best travel case for cameras if you have to fly with extensive camera equipment. It’s too large to fit in carry-on compartments, so this hard case will need to be checked with your airline. But because of its highly durable construction, you don’t have to worry about your gear staying safe. I flew with one from Hawaii to Florida, and there was barely a mark on the case. It’s made of lightweight HPX polymer and has a crushproof, dustproof, and waterproof design. And there are stainless steel padlock protectors, so you can lock things up with TSA-approved locks for more security.

Inside, the Pelican Air is lined with Pelican’s TrekPak divider system, which is fully customizable. They will keep your camera equipment safe and organized no matter how far it must travel. You can also opt for foam or padded dividers if that’s more to your liking. The case has wheels on the bottom and an extendable trolley handle, so it’s easy to move around. If you need to lift it to climb stairs, it also features a carry handle. Plus, it’s 28 percent lighter than earlier models and 40 percent lighter than other polymer cases on the market.

With interior dimensions of 29.59 x 15.50 x 9.38 inches, the Air 1615 holds a lot. If you want the same level of protection but would prefer a carry-on size, the Air 1535 is the way to go. It offers interior dimensions of 20.4 × 11.2 × 7.2 inches, so still holds plenty of gear, but you won’t have to pay for an extra checked bag.

Things to consider when searching for the best camera bags for travel

If you are bringing your camera equipment along when you travel—and we absolutely recommend that you do—it’s essential to have a great camera bag to keep your gear safe throughout your trip. You’ll also want something comfortable to carry, especially if you will be lugging your gear around for extended periods, like hiking or long airport days. 

Different bags make sense for different types of travel, and there are many options when it comes to styles of bags. Finding the perfect travel bag for your camera equipment often comes down to personal preference, but before adding a bag to your shopping cart, there are some things to consider. 

In general, look for something comfortable to carry, has padding to keep your lenses and camera bodies from bashing against one another, and is big enough to fit your essential equipment. A few extra pockets to keep personal items organized are great too. Then, answering the following questions can help narrow down your choice even more.

How far are you going? 

If you are traveling far from home and will be away for a while, a larger camera backpack or a rolling Pelican bag are both excellent places to start. These bigger options will allow you to bring more equipment. And they will also have additional space for some non-photography items you may need to pack. They can also offer more protection for your gear than other options.

If your travels mean you will be boarding a plane, look for something that will fit under the seat in front of you or the overhead bin. Some bags will even specify if they are carry-on compliant. In addition, most camera backpacks feature a dedicated laptop sleeve, making it easier to get through airport security quickly. 

If you are staying close to home and taking day trips, a low-profile shoulder bag or sling bag might be a better fit. It will keep you from being weighed down while photographing your adventures while still protecting your gear when you want to stash it. 

How much (and what) gear are you bringing? 

The second thing to consider is how much gear you need to travel with. The size of your equipment is also a factor. For example, DSLR bodies are bigger than most mirrorless cameras and won’t fit in certain bags as a result. If you don’t need to bring many lenses or a laptop, something simple like a shoulder bag or hip belt might be your best bet. For jobs that require a laptop and a more extensive kit of lenses, we prefer to use a backpack because of how it distributes the weight of the gear. 

For jobs that require a ton of gear—multiple cameras, lenses, and lights, for example—we’d recommend a rolling bag. Keep in mind that you can always mix and match. Using a combination of a backpack, hip pouch, and a roller if you need to. Keep reading to learn more about some of our favorite bags for traveling with camera gear. 

How rugged will your trips be?

Lastly, you’ll want to consider how rough your trips may be. For example, suppose you will be exploring rugged, remote places. In that case, you may want features like a pocket for a water bladder or multiple water bottles, solid weatherproofing and tear-resistant material, and additional room for storing non-photography gear. Extra sturdy padding, an interior frame for structure, and exterior attachment points may also be valuable. On the other hand, if you will mostly be romping around cities, a camera bag for travel that is less robust (and potentially cheaper) with less extra room and special features may be plenty for your needs.

Q: Are there any budget-friendly camera bags?

If you are looking to save when shopping for a camera bag, consider an Amazon Basics brand item. While these bags lack some of the features of the bags in this guide and may lack style points, they typically only cost $20-$50, depending on the size and style.

Q: How much does a camera bag for travel cost?

Prices vary widely on camera bags depending on how much gear they hold, what they are made of, and the size. Brand-name bags will often start around $130, while higher-end, rugged bags can be over $300.

Q: Where should I pack my camera when flying?

We recommend packing your camera bag in your carry-on and storing it either in the overhead bin or beneath the seat when flying. While you can have cameras in checked luggage, it is generally safer (and better for your peace of mind) to keep them on you.

Q: How do you travel with expensive camera equipment?

If you are flying with minimal camera gear, we recommend packing it in your carry-on luggage. If you are flying with a lot of camera equipment, we suggest packing your gear inside a well-padded Pelican case. If you have to check your bag under the plane, remember to remove any lithium batteries and store them in your carry-on. Insurance that covers your expensive gear while traveling is also a good idea.

Q: What is the best camera bag for professional photographers?

Professional photographers enjoy a variety of camera bags depending on what they are shooting, how far they are traveling, and what gear they need to bring along with them. For example, a professional landscape photographer will likely have different taste in camera bags than a wedding or event photographer. Also, it’s not unusual for a professional photographer to have a few different camera bags to choose from based on whatever the assignment might be. 

Final thoughts on the best camera bags for travel

Having the best camera bags for travel will give you peace of mind knowing that your gear is safe and sound for use when you arrive at your final destination. It will also help you comfortably carry your camera when out and about and potentially help you bring other essentials. 

Look for a bag with lots of structured padding to avoid damage to your camera equipment and one sized to count as a carry-on item if you will be flying. Of course, the bag that’s right for you will depend a lot on where your travels take you and what you need to bring along, but we are confident that the travel bags in this guide will fit the needs of all kinds of photographers. 

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

Jeanette D. Moses is a New York City–based filmmaker and photographer known for her intimate depictions of New York's creative communities. She’s been a contributor to PopPhoto since 2014, specializing in interviews, gear reviews, and all things analog.

Abby Ferguson is the Associate Editor for Gear and Reviews at PopPhoto, joining the team in 2022. She has been involved with the photography industry in various capacities since her undergraduate training at the University of Kentucky, with work ranging from client photography to program development and management of the photo department at Evolve, a vacation rental company.

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The Best Travel Camera Bags for Experts and Amateurs Alike

By Alex Erdekian

Traveling with a camera is always A Thing. It’s stressful and high stakes. The chances of damaging a camera, losing it, having it stolen, or misplacing a key accessory like batteries, are unfortunately high on a trip. Which is why investing in a decent camera bag and doing your research is essential. When a camera is along for the ride, a bag whose design thoughtfully and specifically takes your packing list into account is a godsend. It’s important to consider that different camera backpacks and bags work best in different environments—the receptacle that's ideal for skirting along the edge of a waterfall might not be the one you choose when walking for miles in Paris . Below, we’ve selected the best camera backpacks for every situation, with styles from trusted brands including Lo & Sons, Bellroy, and Thule.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Meg Reinhardt and Louis Cheslaw.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Lo & Sons The Claremont

Best overall style

This sleek, luxurious bag from Lo & Sons is simple and beautiful, with rich, colorful full-grain leather and gold hardware. It’s a crossbody style that to the untrained eye looks like a standard purse, not a bulky camera case. Best of all, it’s specifically designed to transport and protect a DSLR camera, and even has space to throw in a small lens or external flash. Inside, padded foam compartments snugly fit the equipment, and there are also slim pockets designed to hold memory cards, as well as your keys and credit cards.

Noteworthy features: Quilted interior, turnlock clasp for security

Focus Camera square camera case

Best for Instax owners

Fans of Fujifilm’s beloved instant cameras will adore this accessory that makes bringing an Instax along for a trip so effortless and cute. The icy blue synthetic leather and artful stitching make this piece a stand-out. There’s even a detachable cover to take pictures without removing the camera from the case.

Noteworthy features: Detachable cover, adjustable strap

Only NY compact camera bag

Best for a day of street photography in Lower Manhattan

Ideal for city street photography and for small-scale cameras, this miniature camera bag from Only NY is no-frills and comes in black and camo print. It fits a camera in the padded main compartment, and has a small zip pocket for SD cards and other accessories.

Noteworthy features: Adjustable nylon shoulder strap, belt loop

Madewell The Transport camera bag

Best camera bag that doesn’t look like a camera bag

This classy leather crossbody from Madewell is perfectly suited for taking a point-and-shoot camera along for the adventure when you're city traveling, but it’s also cute enough to serve as a bag when you leave your device at home. Available in a warm chestnut as well as a glossy black, the vegetable-dyed leather is unique to each bag. We love that there are two strap options to choose from: one skinny leather strap, and one wide fabric strap in a crisp white.

Noteworthy features: Multifunctional, exterior slide pocket for your phone

Jessica Puckett

Anna Borges

Karthika Gupta

Coach Mini Jamie camera bag

Best bag for bringing back your Y2K era

Coach is a classic for a reason, and while it epitomizes Y2K style, you can rock it with even more flair today, evoking nostalgia. The brand’s Jamie Camera crossbody camera bag is 9.5" x 7", making it an ideal size for a small device that you want to tote to a party—or have on your hip while you stroll an urban street abroad. It’s made of smooth, creamy leather and lined with fabric. Chic and functional.

Noteworthy features: Credit card slots, adjustable strap

Fjallraven Kanken Photo Insert

Best for flexibility

This accessory from Fjällräven can transform any bag or backpack into one for cameras, but is specifically designed to click into the brand’s Kånken backpack dimensions. It comes in two sizes, small and medium, depending on how much gear you have. It’s padded with foam compartments that protect cameras, lenses, and other gear like microphones or lights.

Noteworthy features: Water-resistant, Velcro for flexibility

Away The Front Pocket backpack

Best for business travel

For the trip where there is no time to be spared, a backpack from Away is the way and the light. Just like the brand’s much-loved suitcases, The Front Pocket backpack makes organization a cinch, thanks to the specificity of its design. A small, compact camera easily fits within the main compartment, and there's plenty of space for a laptop and photography gear—chargers, spare batteries, memory cards—and other loose, small travel items. The back of the pack has a space to stow your passport, and a key loop hangs from the bottom.

Noteworthy features: 15-inch laptop sleeve, trolley sleeve that secures to luggage

Bellroy classic compact backpack

Best for urban exploring

Bellroy’s classic backpack is already ideal for urban adventures, but this compact version might be our preferred size, as it's slim enough that you won’t bump strangers on the subway. It’s got pockets on pockets, a cushioned sleeve for your laptop, a key loop, and more. It even has a water-resistant, padded sunglasses pocket on top. A DSLR camera body with a lens would fit nicely within the main compartment, but this isn’t the pack for toting additional lenses.

Noteworthy features: 13-inch laptop compartment, accessible front pocket, lumbar support for your spine

Brevitē The Jumper backpack

Best multi-purpose bag

Designed with shutterbugs in mind, Brevitē's The Jumper backpack has a pocket for each and every essential: there's a sleeve that fits up to a 16-inch laptop; a compartment with removable dividers, meant to hold a full-frame DSLR, three lenses, plus a 70-200mm lens or drone and SD cards; a smaller zip pocket to slide a passport and phone into; a water bottle holder; an open inner compartment to store a change of clothes; and loops on the bottom to tote a tripod. When you want to use it as a standard backpack, take the dividers out to have one large compartment inside. Consider this the personal item of choice for photographers.

Noteworthy features: Quick side access to camera, luggage pass-through sleeve to secure to carry-on

Peak Design 45L travel backpack

Best for long haul trips

For travelers heading out on a longer journey —say, a safari or an Antarctic expedition—Peak Design's expandable carry-on backpack has plenty of space for everything on your list. It does require purchasing three pieces best used as a set: the travel backpack; a tech pouch for chargers, plugs, and back-up batteries; and a camera cube to safely organize your equipment. Because it can fit so much, it can also get heavy—but padded straps make managing that weight as comfortable as possible. (For a less spacious, but all-in-one option, consider the Peak Design Everyday Backpack , which comes with padded inserts you can configure according to your load.)

Noteworthy features: Expandable side pockets, easy access to gear, weatherproof

Lululemon crossbody camera bag

Best for day trips

For a last-minute jaunt upstate , to the Cape , or wherever your local getaway may be, this crossbody camera bag from Lululemon is just the ticket. It’s lightweight and hands-free, which means bringing your camera along will feel like a breeze (though as you can surmise from the size, it won't hold all the accessories you might want on longer trips). A back pocket to slip your phone into keeps essentials handy, and water-resistant fabric makes this one safe for a winter stroll by the shore.

Noteworthy features: Drop-in phone pocket, adjustable strap

Thule Aspect DSLR backpack

Best for skiing and snow sports

The camera gear needed to capture snow sports is a whole different ball game—and that includes the bag. This roomy weatherproof option from Thule has a padded storage compartment that fits a DSLR camera body and two lenses. A pocket accessible from the side lets skiers swiftly retrieve their camera while on the slopes. Front straps help to stabilize the load so that a skier's balance remains unaffected.

Noteworthy features: Space for a drone, sternum strap

OverBoard 20L waterproof kayak deck bag

Best for aquatic environments

If you’re bringing equipment you care about aboard a boat or dangerously close to a body of water of any sort—kayaking, paddleboarding, on a waterfall hike—you would be wise to go 100 percent waterproof with your camera bag. This one floats, and contents will remain bone-dry if it falls overboard.

Noteworthy features: Removable shoulder strap, webbing, interior pocket for documents, water-resistant

Lemaire camera bag

Best for formal events

This minimalist, geometric leather camera bag can be worn as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or around the neck. Molded into the basic shape of a camera itself, with a cylindrical magnet closure that mimics a camera lens, this statement item has a subtle whimsy while still being luxurious. It's an outfit-maker and one of the best camera bags if you are your friend group’s designated party, wedding, or night out photographer.

Noteworthy features: Magnet closure, handmade, adjustable strap

Mountainsmith Tanuck 40L backpack

Best for backpacking

Mountainsmith’s Tanuck backpack was designed in collaboration with landscape and adventure photographer Chris Burkard . Tough Cordura fabric means it is as durable as camera bags get. And for practical purposes, it might as well be Hermione’s bottomless bag from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows : There's enough space for tripods, lenses, light stands, and accessories to go inside this 40-liter daypack.

Noteworthy features : Hydration sleeve to drink water through, hip belt, storm collar, and rain cover