Best Camera Bags for Photographers

The prospects of capturing stunning images and panoramic sights at breathtaking locations may get your adrenaline pumping and creative juices flowing. However, your plans may get derailed without a sturdy camera bag for carrying your camera gear safely.   

The high-tech cameras come equipped with expensive and high-quality lenses. It becomes imperative to ensure the safety of such high-tech camera equipment while travelling. A camera bag is designed to accommodate the camera, lens, and other accessories easily.

Whether you are a novice photographer or a professional cameraman, you can’t do without an efficient and spacious camera bag. It not only provides ample storage space for organizing your camera gear but also features an ergonomic design for comfortable carrying.

In this review, you will read about a buying guide our top nine recommendations and FAQs.

Top 8 Camera Bags in India

Product (Best Brands)Average User RatingPrice RangeBest Price
The Stylish Sling Camera Bag
4.5/5
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Our Choice
4.3/5
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Comfortable and convenient to travel
4.6/5
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The Multipurpose Backpack
4.3/5
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Quality on a Budget
4.3/5
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The easy to Access Camera Bag
4.3/5
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The Best Rolling Case Camera Bag
5/5
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The Best Camera Pouch
4.3/5
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What is a Camera Bag?

A camera is a spectacular gadget gifted to us by technology.

Its ability to seize beautiful moments is undoubtedly remarkable, making it one of today’s most popular gadgets. Almost every individual has a camera.

Photographers invest in the cameras and equipment available in the markets. Hence, they need to protect this investment.

This is where camera bags come in. Apart from the camera and equipment, a camera bag is an essential accessory required by a photographer.

Camera bags are made of strong, durable materials of nylon, polyester, or leather, which enables it to protect and carry the camera with ease.

All of them are designed to resist any weather conditions so that the camera is protected from damage.

A photographer or a photojournalist is a traveller who travels to different locations to get the perfect click. It is not possible to carry your camera, lenses, and other gear in hand.

That is where this bag comes in handy. It is the perfect travel bag for a photographer.

Every camera bag is designed to have compartments and pockets to store your gadget and equipment. This makes it convenient to find things when needed.

The padding in the bag and the straps are designed to carry heavy gear comfortably. Some of them also come with extra storage space allowing you to carry your laptop or tablet.

The camera bag has various options for you to choose from. It adds to the style and comfort of a photographer. So, photographers buy your perfect camera bag now!

Types of Camera Bags

Camera Pouches

Camera pouches are designed for small body cameras. They have enough room for just one camera along with one or two small items like SD cards and a battery.

They are compact, durable, and can protect your camera from scratches while taking shock and vibrations.

Camera Pouch

It is very convenient to carry these pouches for any outing. The pouch comes with an adjustable strap which enables you to carry it in the way you find most comfortable or it can be attached to the loop of your belt.

Holster Cases

Holster cases are very similar to pouches. However, they offer more storage space than a pouch.

Holster cases are designed especially for the longer zoom lenses. They are perfect for accommodating DSLR cameras like the Nikon EOS 100 D.

Holster Cases

They provide enough storage capacity for a traveller who would want to carry a camera, lens, and a few accessories. Hence, it is a good DSLR camera bag that provides waterproof protection for keeping your product safe.

Backpacks

Backpacks are multipurpose bags, which is one of the best types of camera bags. These bags come with ample storage space which can accommodate up to 2-3 cameras, 4-5 lenses along with a laptop or tablet.

They come with adjustable compartments to fit perfectly while the extra pockets can store other accessories like chargers, cables, and batteries.

Camera Backpack

The backpack provides comfortable long-distance travelling for all the travellers due to its padding.

Some of them are also able to carry a tripod. They are convenient as they can also be used as a regular backpack by removing the grids.

Shoulder Bags

The most popular and traditional camera bags are shoulder bags, also referred to as messenger bags. These bags come in various sizes and are designed to meet the specific requirements of a photographer.

They usually come with a top-loading feature with the capacity to hold an SLR along with the extra lenses and its other camera accessories. These bags are carried over the shoulder or by the hand strap.

Shoulder Camera Bag

These bags come with high durability and quality, making it a bit more expensive than other bags. They are ideal for every photographer. However, it might cause damage to a person due to carrying all the weight on one shoulder.

Waist Belts

Waist Belt Camera Bag

Waist belts are the most compact and easy to use camera bags for DSLR and mirrorless cameras. They are also called belt packs, fanny packs, or hip packs. They are worn in the form of a belt around your waist.

Waist belt camera bags can help you move around freely and enjoy your photography experience to the fullest.

Sling Bags

These crossbody camera bags are the perfect lightweight and stylish bags which can hold a DSLR along with two to three lenses easily.

They provide easy access to your gear like a shoulder bag along with great storage capacity. The primary strap is worn across the body.

Sling Camera Bag

You can take out your camera for a shot without having to take off the bag. It can store a laptop and tablet along with accessories like batteries and cables.

Rolling Cases

Rolling cases, also known as travel cases, are the perfect portable camera bags. They have a huge storage capacity along with extra protection and security for your expensive gear.

Rolling cases are the perfect travel partners to carry while travelling by air.

Rolling Case

The wheels on this bag allow comfortable and easy pushing and rolling. Hence, the weight of the heavy equipment is not felt by the traveller preventing tiredness and fatigue.

Camera Bag Buyer’s Guide

A photographer needs to choose an ideal camera bag. The wide range of bags in the market makes it difficult for the photographer to choose the right and suitable camera bag.

Here we list and explain the essential things to consider while buying the best camera bag.

Weight

The camera bag will be used for carrying heavy equipment and gear. Hence, you wouldn’t want to add the extra weight of the bag to your shoulders.

For this reason, ensure that the bag you go for is light-weight so that you are comfortable during the journey. A light-weight camera bag with padded shoulder straps will prevent you from having back and shoulder aches.

Type of Camera

The first thing to consider before purchasing an ideal camera bag is the type of camera you will carry. There are a wide variety of camera bags available.

If you have a small camera like a point and shoot camera, the camera pouch would be a suitable camera bag that allows you to store an extra SD card or battery.

On the other hand, for larger cameras like a digital SLR, you have options like camera backpacks, shoulder bags, or sling bags to choose from.

For cameras with a long lens, holster cases are the most preferred camera bags. Thus, it is important to make your purchase according to the type of camera you have.

Size and Storage Space

The second factor in your checklist should be the size and storage space of the bag. It is important to have a bag that has the capacity to store your gear and the accessories which you need to carry.

The size of the bag should be per your camera lenses. Look for a bag that can easily store your laptop and tablet.

It is better to look for additional space for holding your accessories. Inside pockets for holding smaller items like chargers and batteries are always an added advantage.

A good storage capacity enables you to use the camera bag as the perfect travel bag enabling you to store all your essentials in one place.

Adjustable Compartments and Ease of Access

The camera bag is required to have specific compartments for every item present in your bag. The main compartment should be able to hold your camera in place.

On the other hand, the compartments should be adjustable so that your accessories fit perfectly in their desired spaces. The adjustable compartments keep everything organized and in one place.

So now, you don’t miss out on taking the perfect shot by wasting time on finding the equipment you need at that moment. Moreover, these adjustable compartments can be removed to use the camera bag as a normal bag.

Weather Resistance

The main function of the camera bag is to protect your expensive cameras and accessories from damage. Hence, the bag needs to be able to offer resistance against rain, dust, and storm.

You will find many options for waterproof camera bags.

Material and durability

The next essential factor required for purchasing a camera bag is the material and durability of the bag. Camera bags protect the camera from damages.

Hence, the bag’s material should be of good quality so that it is durable enough to withstand any wear and tear that might arise over time. This increases the longevity of the bag.

The interior of the bag should be made of soft fibre to prevent scratches on the lenses. Extra padding in the interior absorbs shocks and vibrations which offer better protection to your gear.

Adjustable Strap

Camera bags are designed with straps that can be worn on both shoulders or across your body. Buy an adjustable camera bag so that you don’t feel the burden of carrying a heavy load.

You would want to move around comfortably to capture those beautiful moments. Hence, choose a bag that has padded adjustable straps for extra comfort.

Extra Pockets

Along with your camera, monopod, and lens, it is essential to have extra storage space in the form of pockets.

These pockets in the bag’s interior allow you to carry small accessories like chargers, cables, batteries, memory cards, or other personal items.

Having extra mesh pockets on the exterior is extremely useful as it allows you to carry quick-grab items like water bottles.

Thus, look out for a bag that has extra storage pockets on the exterior.

Additional Things to Keep in Mind

While purchasing your ideal camera bag, make sure you know the answers to certain questions.

What are you going to carry in your camera bag? How many lenses are you going to carry? What type of lenses are you going to carry? This will help you choose the right camera bag.

Apart from this, choose a bag that offers good security to prevent theft of your expensive possession while travelling.

The camera bag needs to have a good locking system with zip closure.

1. AmazonBasics Camera Case 

AmazonBasics hard camera case is a large camera case for providing reliable protection and safe storage for your delicate and costlier camera gear. It features rugged construction with a hard plastic shell for withstanding drops, bumps, and knocks.

This camera case is designed for ensuring the safe transport of camera gear from one place to another. It is a hard camera case that meets carry-on regulations for the majority of US domestic airlines. It meets the maximum size criteria for carry-on bags.

Main Features
  • It features a large and hard-shelled protective case that provides robust safety while storing and transporting camera gear
  • It is IP67 rated camera bag that has a watertight design for easily withstanding the water pressure for up to 30 minutes at 1-meter depth.
  • It comes with a pressure-equalization valve that provides watertight and airtight sealing storage for ensuring enhanced safety of the stored contents
  • It features pre-cut foam squares that give you the flexibility for customizing the interior
  • It comes with an extendable durable handle that provides easy carrying
  • It is a sturdy case that features smooth-rolling wheels for providing easy transportation like a rolling suitcase
  • It provides extra secure closure with its dual holes for optional locking
  • It comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty from the date of purchase
  • The exterior dimensions of the camera bag measure 21.9 x 13.7 x 9.76 inches and its interior dimensions measure 20.4 x 10.9 x 8.6 inches
PROS (What we liked)
  • It features a sturdy and comfortable design that makes it an ideal camera bag for the adventure travel photographer
  • This camera bag can be quickly converted to a rolling case with its smooth-rolling wheels
  • It combines the triple advantage of portability, durability, and ease of storage
  • It is equipped with an extendable top handle and a fold-down side handle that ensures convenient transportation while using it as a roller case
  • Its hard camera case with a watertight design can keep your stored camera equipment safe and dry even if you are caught in heavy rainfall or encountered splashes near a pool
  • Its foam squares provide easy interior customization by reshaping, removing, and re-arranging the squares for your desired placement
  • The top handle can be conveniently accessed for rolling the camera case during transportation, and it can be easily collapsed in one smooth move for easy storage in compact spaces when not in use
CONS (What we didn’t like)
  • No negative points were observed so far

2. Smiledrive Camera Backpack

SMILEDRIVE Camera Backpack
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This camera bag is suitable for carrying any type of camera and camera accessories. It comes with removable dividers in the interior that enable you to make adjustments to fit all your gear and accessories.

Moreover, the dividers are padded to ensure the safety and protection of your valuable equipment. The shoulder straps are breathable and padded for ensuring a comfortable experience while travelling.

This camera bag also comes with a rain cover to keep your gear safe during rain while the anti-skid base provided extra protection.

Main Features
  • Made using high-quality polyester and nylon
  • Dimensions: 25.4 x 15.24 x 33.02 cm
  • The interior has removable dividers which can be adjusted to fit cameras, lenses and other accessories
  • Comes with padded and breathable heat dissipation shoulder straps
  • It has a zipper enclosure for a rain cover
  • The two rubber anti-skid base ensures added protection
  • Compatible with Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax, and other DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, and GoPros
PROS (What we liked)
  • It is light-weight and comfortable to carry
  • Durable and water-resistant
  • The exterior has velcro straps that enable you to carry your tripod
  • The mesh pockets allow you to carry your charger, lens, battery, and other accessories
CONS (What we didn’t like)
  • The size of the bag is small
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3. AmazonBasics Camera Case 

AmazonBasics Holster Camera Case
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Amazon, one of the leading E-commerce websites, has launched several private label brands under many categories. One such brand launched, mainly consisting of electronic accessories, is AmazonBasics.

It is the best selling private label brands on Amazon that has gifted us with a wide range of innovative electronic accessories like the AmazonBasics holster camera case.

It is one of the best selling camera bags on Amazon and is our topmost recommendation for its amazing features. This holster case is designed to be compatible with most digital SLR with a zoom lens attached up to 270 mm.

It comes with a waterproof EVA base that can protect your expensive gear from rain or any hard impacts which might arise while travelling.

If you are looking for a stylish camera bag having ample storage space, this bag is a perfect choice. It is comfortable and convenient to travel with.

Main Features
  • External dimensions 6.9 inches× 6.3 inches ×9.0 inches
  • Internal dimensions 6.5 inches ×5.9 inches× 7.5 inches
  • The holster camera case is compatible with most digital SLR with a zoom lens attached (up to 270 mm)
  • Waterproof EVA base
  • Adjustable padded shoulder strap
  • Three compartments for accessories with two slots for SD cards
  • One year limited warranty
PROS (What we liked)
  • The main compartment comes with double zipper closure, and the Velcro straps are adjustable, making it suspend the camera securely for impact protection
  • The sturdy base of the bag protects the camera from any hard impact and provides support to stand upright
  • It is comfortable and convenient to travel with
CONS (What we didn’t like)
  • No sufficient space to carry an extra lens
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4. Cosmus Horizon Backpack

Cosmus Horizon Backpack Bag
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Cosmus bags have emerged as one of the most trusted manufacturing companies that create innovative products like sling bags and office messenger laptop bags.

Unlike any other camera backpack, this bag is known for its ample storage capacity of 30 kg. This navy blue backpack is something you must have if you have many gears to carry while travelling.

It comes with a waterproof EVA shell and a hard fibre protected outer body which provides full protection to your camera. The grids are adjustable and well padded to fit all your gear perfectly. The bag offers both style and comfort to the traveller.

It is a multipurpose bag that can also be used as a normal backpack if the grid is removed.

 

Main Features
  • Well padded digital SLR camera backpack that protects your camera under any circumstances
  • Size of the bag 18.5× 13× 10 (inches)
  • Waterproof EVA base that helps it stand upright without any support
  • The outer body is made of hard fibre
  • It has a 30 kg super loading feature
  • The material of the bag – polyester
PROS (What we liked)
  • Adjustable grids to fit any lens size
  • The front dynamic, streamlined design, and back ergonomic design makes it easier and comfortable to carry
  • This bag comes with a large capacity enabling it to store 1-2 camera bodies, 4-6 extra lenses along with a 15.6-inch laptop, 10-inch tablet
  • It can also be used as a normal backpack if the grids are removed
CONS (What we didn’t like)
  • Low-quality padding and no strap to keep the camera in one place
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5. Nikon DSLR Shoulder Camera Bag

Nikon Dslr Shoulder Camera Bag
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Nikon is one of the leading names when it comes to cameras. It has launched suitable shoulder bags for the convenience of the photographer and the protection of the camera.

The Nikon DSLR shoulder bag is an ideal camera bag for most standard size SLR cameras with attached lens. This compact yet spacious design comes with a removable shoulder strap and a padded top handle.

The interior is well padded with Velcro cushions which can be removed and adjusted as per your requirements. The extra pockets allow you to store smaller items making it an ideal shoulder bag to have.

This Nikon camera bag is reasonably priced considering its quality and material. This is a perfect budget-friendly option for photographers with a standard size camera and fewer accessories to carry.

Main Features
  • Extra slots and pockets for small accessories
  • It comes with a shoulder strap buckle
  • The well-padded interior which can be removed and adjusted
  • Two mesh side open pockets
  • Perfect for a standard size camera and lens
  • It comes with a padded handle on top so that carrying it to places isn’t an issue
PROS (What we liked)
  • It has enough pockets to store small accessories like camera cords, chargers, or personal items
  • The two side pockets are usable for quick-grab items like water bottles
  • Padded shoulder strap and handle makes it comfortable to carry
  • Quality waterproof material that protects your camera from rain
  • It is very durable and reasonable in price
CONS (What we didn’t like)
  • It does not have enough space to accommodate extra lenses or a laptop/tablet
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6. Lowepro Flipside Camera Bag 

Lowepro Flipside 400 AW II Camera Bag
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Lowepro is a well-known brand of camera bags, laptop, and consumer electronic bags. It is a line of protective camera bags whose focus is to prevent any damage to the camera or gear while travelling and hiking.

Our top ten list would be incomplete without mentioning the Lowepro Flipside 400 AW II Camera Bag. This bag’s main feature is its flip side body, which allows you to have easy access to your gear without having to remove your bag.

It is ideal for carrying this bag around film crews and wildlife where you can seize the perfect beautiful moments without any disturbance.

It has a patented Lowepro cover that offers resistance against any weather conditions, keeping your belongings safe.

Main Features
  • Exterior dimensions –  11.22×8.27×19.29 inches
  • Interior dimensions – 9.84× 5.43×15.94 inches
  • The flip side body allows you to access the gear without having to put the bag down along with increased security
  • It comes with a removable padded accessory pouch
  • Silent zipper and two stretch mesh side pockets
  • This LowePro camera bag has enough space to fit DSLR with 300mm mounted lens, 4-6 extra lenses, and flash
  • It has CradleFit pocket which can easily protect 15” laptop and 10” tablet
  • Hideaway Tripod Mount in this bag secures a compact tripod to the pack
  • You can do additional storage to Exterior SlipLock strap
  • Having All Weather AW Cover for protection
PROS (What we liked)
  • The quality of the bag is good and is comfortable to use
  • You can easily load your DSLR camera with up to 7 lenses and flash or compact drone, plus 15” laptop, 10” tablet and compact tripod
  • It has a dynamic storage capacity which can fit a wide range of gear
  • It has extra storage space for small items like cords and chargers
  • The mesh side pockets help for quick-grab items storage
  • The patented Lowepro cover offers weather resistance to the camera and gear
CONS (What we didn’t like)
  • The buckles could be stronger
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7. Think Tank Camera Bag 

Think Tank Airport Roller Derby Rolling Carry-On Camera Bag
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Think Tank Photo is the leading US-based designer and manufacturer of camera bags and other accessories. These bags are designed especially for professional photographers who require ample storage capacity for all their gear.

One such Think Tank bag designed to meet all the professional requirements of a photographer is the Think Tank airport roller derby rolling carry-on camera bag.

This is a trolley case or a rolling case camera bag that can be used for carrying heavy gear while travelling.

It comes with four dual wheelsets capable of smooth rolling and pushing, which reduces tiredness and fatigue from carrying a heavy load.

The zipper can be secured with a lock and cable protecting your camera from theft. This is the perfect rolling case camera bag for a professional photographer making it one of our top ten choices.

Main Features
  • Fits in a lot of things like two standard DSLR with lenses attached or  1 gripped DSLR and one standard both with lenses attached, 6-7  standard zoom lenses, 400 mm f/2.8, a 15″ laptop and a 10″ tablet
  • Lock and cable secure the lockable zipper and tether this rolling case camera bag
  • It has a seam-sealed rain cover included
  • It comes with a bottom handle and water bottle pocket on the side
  • It has a four dual wheelset
  • 2-position locking handles extending 39-42″
PROS (What we liked)
  • There are three ways to roll the bag- upright at your side, back wheel tilt or side-wheel tilt, which reduces tiredness and fatigue
  • Top zippered pocket for wallet or cell phone to keep personal valuables safe
  • Extremely durable with its reinforced back panel
  • It is easy and comfortable to push and roll this bag
CONS (What we didn’t like)
  • Very expensive
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8. Fujifilm Zipper Camera Case

Fujifilm FJ342 Zipper Camera Case
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The Fujifilm FJ342 Zipper Camera Case is the best camera pouch to have. It is perfectly suitable to fit an Instax mini camera or any other small camera along with a cartridge. The strap is adjustable as per your requirement.

The interior of this pouch is designed with soft microfiber to prevent scratches on the screen. The wear resistance material quality makes it durable.

This reasonable camera case is ideal for carrying on short outings with family or friends. This is truly the best camera pouch to have on our list!

Main Features
  • Designed to fit Instax mini cameras
  • It has an attached belt loop
  • There is a case strap included with it
  • The straps are adjustable
PROS (What we liked)
  • The soft microfiber inner design prevents scratches on the screen and absorbs shock
  • It provides your camera with protection and wear-resistance, increasing its longevity
  • It is durable and perfect for outings
  • It comes at a very reasonable price
CONS (What we didn’t like)
  • It has space to hold only one Instax mini camera and a cartridge
  • This case is not waterproof
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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best camera bag for Travelling?

The best camera bags for travelling are:

2. What is the most comfortable type of camera bag?

The most comfortable type of camera bags are as follows:

Conclusion

A camera bag is specially designed to store your camera, lenses and other equipment safe and organized. It perfectly complements the fast-paced and on-the-go lifestyles of photographers. It can be easily carried on shoulders or tied to your back with straps.

Our top picks are AmazonBasics Camera Case, Smiledrive Camera Backpack and Cosmus Horizon Backpack.

It ensures that you can easily and securely carry your delicate and costly camera gear to faraway natural landscapes while traversing the rough terrains for capturing the beauty of scenic locales.

The camera bags have tough exterior covering that protects against any vibrations and environmental impacts. These bags feature numerous padded compartments and pockets for convenient storage and effortless retrieval when required. 

Get a camera bag that empowers you to freeze the moments in time anytime and anywhere.

Anaida Sutherland
 

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