There are many camera bag and case options out there, but which one is the best? When it comes to camera bags and cases, there are a lot of choices and a lot of different opinions. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best camera bags and cases.
Of course, if you’re going to spend thousands on a camera, why not spend a few hundred more on the bag and case that will be protecting it?
But, finding a camera bag is not as simple as it seems, especially if you are an avid photographer and plan on going on many expeditions.
Some people use their camera bags to carry around their equipment while others use them as storage. Whatever your purpose is, there is a bag that is right for you.
What Are The Best Camera Bags And Cases You Can Buy?
- MindShift PhotoCross Backpack 13
- Tenba Skyline 13 Messenger
- Think Tank Retrospective
- Billingham Hadley Small Pro
- Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW II Modular Backpack
- Think Tank Mirrorless Mover 10
- Vanguard Supreme 53D
- CADeN Camera Bag Sling Backpack
- Tenba Solstice 10L Sling Bag
- Vanguard Alta Sky 51D
- Domke F2 Shoulder Camera Bag
- Think Tank Photo TurnStyle 10 V2.0
- Lowepro Dashpoint 10
- PGYTECH OneGo 18L
- BAGSMART DSLR Camera Bag
1. Overall Best Camera Bag And Case
MindShift PhotoCross Backpack 13
Planning a backpacking trip? Hiking through rough terrain? Not to worry. The MindShift PhotoCross Backpack is the perfect companion for your gear.
MindShift designers have created a backpack that’s not only tough enough for the outdoors but is made with the needs of photographers in mind.
It is a rugged camera bag with a minimalist design made for photographers who are out in all kinds of conditions. This bag has adjustable padded dividers, several compartments, and a rain cover that helps protect your gear in the worst weather while you shoot.
This is an all-around, outdoorsy type of camera bag that also offers a thoughtful and intelligent way to control, organize, and present your gear for almost any occasion.
The camera bag is designed to support your back, neck, and shoulders by using a firm suspension system. Also, the contoured back pad and deluxe harness help distribute weight evenly.
Features of MindShift PhotoCross Backpack 13
- Dimensions: 6.3 x 11.42 x 18.11 inches
- Weight: 2.64 pounds
- Color: Orange Ember and Carbon Gray
- Laptop/Tablet Compartment: Yes
- Laptop size: 13-inch
- Tripod attachment: Yes
Pros
- Back-panel access
- Dedicated compartments
- Daypack capacity
- Large, removable waist belt
- Two tripod mounting points
- Weatherproof zippers and materials
- Comfortable to wear
Cons
- Straps can become uncomfortable if worn for too long
2. Best Messenger Camera Bag
Tenba Skyline 13 Messenger
This is one of the best camera bags and cases you can buy. It has plenty of room for camera gear, but with its features, your telephoto lens will fit easily and safely, it opens wide enough that you can find what you are looking for quickly, and it has a stylish look.
The Tenba Skyline 13 Messenger is designed to meet airline requirements as a carry-on bag. This messenger bag will be able to organize your camera gear and still leave plenty of room for your laptop, with pockets for memory cards, lenses, and other accessories.
This messenger bag features a roomy interior, ample exterior pockets, and an advanced interior compartment to help you organize all your gear. It has handy pockets so you can find what you need quickly.
The leatherette shoulder strap also has a padded section so you can carry it comfortably.
Features of Tenba Skyline 13 Messenger
- External size: 43.18 x 29.21 x 15.24 cm
- Weight: 0.73kg
- Color options: Black, grey
- Laptop size: 13-inch
Pros
- Durable, weatherproof construction
- Comfortable to wear
- Affordable and quality camera bag
Cons
- Offer limited customization potential
3. Best Shoulder Camera Bag
Think Tank Retrospective
The Retrospective range is, without a doubt, a set of the most popular, and best-selling camera bags. I say this not only because they are extremely well made with high-quality materials, but also because literally, almost everyone is using them.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobbyist, if you shoot on location, no matter if it’s a family outing or a wedding in the Caribbean, chances are at some point you will need to tote your gear safely.
There’s nothing worse than having your gear go sideways on you while you’re at the most opportune moment to capture that defining shot… Think Tank has an appropriate solution with the retro belt pack.
Features of Think Tank Retrospective
- Dimensions: 7.01 x 12.99 x 12.48 inches
- Color: Black
- Laptop/Tablet Compartment: None
- Weight: 1.3 Kilograms
Pros
- Simple yet stylish
- Comfortable strap
- It is spacious
- Built tough
Cons
- Has no laptop compartment
4. Best Classy Camera Bag
Billingham Hadley Small Pro
The Billingham Hadley Pro (not to be confused with their non-Pro version) remains one of the most popular camera bags around and for good reason.
This beautifully made bag will easily protect even the most high-end system from bumps, vibrations, and outside elements that many amateur photographers hate.
If you are looking for the best camera bags and cases you can buy, no list would be complete without the Billingham Hadley Pro. With thoughtful design, simple and functional in appearance yet deep in capability, this bag is a perennial favorite.
For the professional looking for a small, compact, protective, and ergonomic camera bag, the Billingham Hadley Pro Small is my pick. It is designed to handle both Prosumer and high-end cameras with ease.
Features of Billingham Hadley Small Pro
- Type: Shoulder bag
- Camera: DSLR/CSC
- Laptop/tablet compartment: Tablet
- Tripod attachment: No
- Additional compartments: 2
- External dimensions: 350x120x300mm
- Weight: 1,100g
Pros
- Slimline design
- Easy access via its wide opening
- Small, compact, and ergonomic camera bag
Cons
- Shoulder pad costs extra
- Has a limited space
5. Best Camera For Airline Cabins
Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW II Modular Backpack
Keep your camera equipment safe and secure while you’re on the go with this Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW II Modular Backpack. It includes a customizable interior that accommodates various cameras, lenses, and accessory systems, as well as all of the accessories needed to keep them organized.
For the photographer who needs space, yet doesn’t want to lug around a massive bag all day, the Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW II backpack is ideal.
Whether you need it to hold just one camera and lens, or an entire system with lots of gear, this backpack has room for everything.
Its versatile design makes it ideal for storing extra gear, such as flash units, tripods, or accessories, and its strong outer shell can handle a lot of wear and tear.
Features of Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW II Modular Backpack
- Lenses: 4
- Raincover: Yes
- Padded hip belt: Yes
- Laptop compartment: 13in
- Dimensions: 30x18x47cm
- Weight: 2.2kg
Pros
- Modular design
- Loads of accessories
- Accepts a drone
Cons
- Its accessories can be quite expensive
6. Best Camera Bag With Hard Plastic
Think Tank Mirrorless Mover 10
Are you looking for a lightweight camera bag that’s easy to carry? If yes, then, look no further than the Think Tank Mirrorless Mover 10.
It is a totally different kind of bag, with a unique design and layout, but it’s built to meet the needs of today’s selfie-loving users while helping them protect their gear.
It provides stylish protection for small mirrorless cameras and travels easily with its shoulder strap. Plus, there’s plenty of room for personal items like your phone, wallet, and keys. This bag is made to fit mirrorless cameras such as Sony A7RII or Fujifilm X-T2.
The bag also comes with two removable dividers, each of which can be moved independently to create more space or better divide gear from other accessories.
Features of Think Tank Mirrorless Mover 10
- Closure Type: Zip
- Style: Messenger bag
- Material: Nylon
- Color: Black (Black )
- Dimensions: 17.72 x 21.65 x 29.53 inches
- Weight: 8.82 Ounces
Pros
- Perfect for mirrorless & super zoom cameras
- High-quality YKK RC zippers and metal hardware
- Adjustable dividers
- Also comes with a rain cover
Cons
- No laptop compartment
- Not roomy
7. Best Hard Case Camera Bag
Vanguard Supreme 53D
With durable construction and advanced weather-resistant design, the Vanguard Supreme 53D is one of the best camera bags and cases on the market today. For a top-quality, durable, and reliable camera bag, this bag is hard to pass up.
It’s waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about taking it out in poor weather conditions, and offers portability thanks to the multiple handles for carrying by hand or attaching to a wheeled luggage cart at the airport.
The exterior contains numerous pockets and compartments to stow away smaller items, while the interior has adjustable dividers to help you organize your gear.
It is built tough to stand up to the scratches, dirt, bumps, rain, sleet, and snow that can come with transporting your valuable cameras and lenses. Plus, it’s lightweight.
Features of Vanguard Supreme 53D
- Type: Hard case
- Camera: DSLR/CSC
- Additional lenses/accessories: 11
- Laptop/tablet compartment: None
- External dimensions: 630 x 520 x 240mm
- Weight: 7,820g
Pros
- Removable soft interior
- Has steel-reinforced padlock rings
- Tough, secure and weather-proof
- Automatic pressure release valve
Cons
- A bit heavy to carry
8. Best Sling Camera Bag
CADeN Camera Bag Sling Backpack
Designed for both outdoor and indoor photographers, it comes with many pockets, covering different sizes and shapes of your things. It’s light, very durable, and convenient to use.
CADeN Camera Bag Sling Backpack is designed to be the most functional and stylish bag for videographers, photographers, students, or anyone who does a lot of traveling with their cameras.
Thanks to the water-resistant material used in its construction, the shoulder bag provides reliable protection against dampness and water splash. In addition to that, it also has exterior pockets that can be used while carrying additional accessories.
Put all your gear inside the bag and go travel around the town or country if you are a professional photographer, or carry it with you when you are working on the site.
Features of CADeN Camera Bag Sling Backpack
- Type: Sling bag/Double backpack
- Dimension: 13 x 5 x 9 inches
- Weight: 1.54 pounds
- Color: Black
- Tripod Holder: Yes
- Laptop Compartment: None
Pros
- It is practical and compact
- Excellent multi-functional camera bag
- Compatible with many brand cameras
- Comes with an alloy zipper
Cons
- Too small
9. Most Compact & Functional Camera Bag
Tenba Solstice 10L Sling Bag
The Tenba Solstice 10L Sling Bag is perfect for the traveling photographer who doesn’t want to compromise load-carrying capacity. The Solstice Sling stays organized with quick-grab exterior pockets and a removable memory card pocket.
It’s packed with construction features including padded shoulder straps, a retractable mounting bracket, SafeSpace padded dividers, and a neoprene laptop sleeve to accommodate up to a 17″ MacBook Pro.
With the Tenba Solstice 10L Sling Bag, go merrily off to shoot all day long without your gear weighing you down. It’s made of high-quality materials and has a minimum of pockets, straps, buckles, and other stuff that can trip you up.
The Solstice’s form-fit design protects a mirrorless camera or small DSLR and two to three lenses. It also includes several adjustable options for holding and accessing your gear, weatherproof external pockets, and internal gear storage.
Features of Tenba Solstice 10L Sling Bag
- Dimensions: 7 x 9.5 x 17.5 inches
- Tripod Holder: Yes
- Color: Black/Blue
- Tablet Compartment: Yes
- Weight: 1.6 Pounds
Pros
- All-day comfort and quick camera access
- It is compact
- Comes with a versatile interior size
- Also fits DJI Mavic and other compact drones
- Built with uncompromising materials and hardware
Cons
- Only wide enough for a tablet, not a laptop
10. Best Heavy-Duty Camera Bag
Vanguard Alta Sky 51D
The Vanguard Alta Sky 51D takes the best of its Nikon-based predecessors and blends it into one bag that is one of the nicest full-featured bags on this list of the best camera bags and cases. With this bag, the only thing that’s left to do is go out and take some great photos!
Almost every detail of this bag has been designed with the photographer in mind: A lightweight frame, thoughtfully placed pockets and straps, easily accessible components, a firm, and protective internal shell, and a built-in rain cover; there’s almost nothing missing compared to other bags evaluated in this article.
A rear compartment has pockets for spare batteries and memory cards. The shoulder strap is comfortable and adjustable for different sizes of photographers.
Features of Vanguard Alta Sky 51D
- Dimensions: 37x26x56.5 cm
- Weight: 2.9kg
- Lenses: 5
- Tripod storage: Yes
- Laptop compartment: 15 inches
- Tablet compartment: Yes
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Includes total coverage rain cover
- Top, front, and side access
- Numerous dedicated pockets, organizers, and connectors
Cons
- A bit heavy
11. Best Camera Bag For Photojournalists
Domke F2 Shoulder Camera Bag
The Domke F2 Shoulder Camera Bag is an ideal gear bag that is great for storing a pro digital or film SLR camera and its accessories.
Featuring four large main compartment pockets, you will be able to store other small accessories and items in the four small exterior pockets.
It is weather-proof to protect its contents from rain, snow, and saltwater damage. Its top-loading design makes it ideal for photojournalists and the ergonomic shape gives it a supreme fit.
Using this bag, photographers are able to travel with their camera, extra lenses, and accessories, plus their notebook and personal items all in one pack.
The adjustable shoulder strap, heavy-duty zippers, and light padding make it the ideal camera bag for trailblazers on the go.
Features of Domke F2 Shoulder Camera Bag
- Style: Bag only
- Color: Sand
- Dimensions: 12 x 6.5 x 9 inches
- Tripod Storage: None
- Laptop Compartment: None
Pros
- 12 compartments and pockets
- Made from tough and durable 100% cotton canvas
- Adjustable non-slip Gripper Strap
- Also features a removable padded bottom stiffener
Cons
- No compartment for a laptop
12. Best Sling Camera Bag For Mirrorless Camera Outfits
Think Tank Photo TurnStyle 10 V2.0
With the Think Tank Photo TurnStyle 10 V2.0, you’ll always be ready to grab the shot that comes your way. You get the comfort of both with this all-in-one camera bag, case, and backpack for mirrorless and small DSLR cameras.
The soft case (with an exterior pocket) holds your DSLR and a lens or two, while the bag case carries everything else. And they’re both collapsible so you can stash them in your suitcase or backpack when you’re not shooting.
When you’re traveling by air, you want to keep your luggage light enough to carry comfortably — but how can you fit everything you need for a good trip into a small bag? TurnSty from Think Thank Photo is the solution.
This is a perfect bag for mirrorless photographers or anyone on the go. This camera bag allows you to quickly swap lenses and accessories on the fly.
Features of Think Tank Photo TurnStyle 10 V2.0
- Type: Sling bag
- Camera: DSLR/CSC
- Additional lenses/accessories: 4
- Laptop/tablet compartment: Tablet
- Tripod attachment: No
- Dimensions: 235 x 440 x 137mm
- Weight: 500g
Pros
- Capacious yet lightweight
- Easy access to photo gear
- Fits a standard DSLR and a larger mirrorless system
- The stabilizer strap holds the bag steady
Cons
- Doesn’t spread the weight load
13. Best Pouch Camera Bag
Lowepro Dashpoint 10
You don’t want to end up with a dusty, dirty camera left behind in the bottom of your pack or bag. Protect your gear with this handy Lowepro Dashpoint 10. It attaches to the outside of your pack with adjustable straps.
It is large enough to hold your cell phone, wallet, keys, and a couple of lenses. Or you can take it out with you on its own, and use it as an everyday carrying case for one or two smaller cameras. Also works great for a tablet.
The sturdy exterior is an ideal size for DSLR cameras and lenses, and the crushproof compartment keeps your gear safe. This small accessory bag also has a slot for a tablet, and slip pockets to hold accessories. And its convenient grab handles allow you to easily carry your gear in any situation.
Features of Lowepro Dashpoint 10
- Type: Pouch
- Additional lenses/accessories: None
- Laptop/tablet compartment: None
- Tripod attachment: No
- Additional compartments: Memory card pocket
- Dimensions: 93x60x134mm
- Weight: 100g
Pros
- Impressive build quality
- Tough but small and lightweight
- Multi-functional camera bag
- Wide-mouth opening with reverse zippers
Cons
- Quite expensive than some pouches
14. Best Camera Bag and Case Perfect For The Street
PGYTECH OneGo 18L
The PGYTECH OneGo 18L is a specially designed, stylish, and highly functional laptop or camera bag. It has more than enough room for your laptop and other gadgetry.
The water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and anti-static fabric will keep liquids, dirt, and dust off of your devices, meaning that you don’t have to baby it.
With plenty of pockets and pouches to store all manner of extra technology and cables – plus enough space for your tablet or iPad – it’s great for business or traveling.
In addition, the case can be carried in six different ways: shoulder strap, sling strap, standard handles, padded side handles, and even the bottom handle thanks to a sturdy bracket system.
Features of PGYTECH OneGo 18L
- Dimension: 12.6 x 7.09 x 17.32 inches
- Weight: 4.84 pounds
- Tablet Compartment: Available
- Laptop Compartment: None
- Tripod attachment: No
Pros
- Unique designs for men and women
- Creative design of 180° opening and two sides access
- The storage system consists of customizable dividers
- Made of waterproof material
Cons
- Not suitable for one or more mirrorless cameras
15. Best DSLR Camera Bag Suited For 15.6 Inches Laptop
BAGSMART DSLR Camera Bag
The BAGSMART DSLR Camera bag is the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. This fully padded bag will keep your Canon camera and laptop well-protected from being damaged when you are on the go.
The DSLR Camera bag also has room for accessories for your cameras such as batteries, memory cards, rechargeable batteries, tripods, lenses, extra lens covers, lens cleaners, or anything you may need to bring with you while out shooting.
With rigid interior dividers and an oversized front pocket, the bag is capable enough to fit all of your gear comfortably. It is the right size to fit your DSLR, with up to 3 lenses surrounding it, a camera body, a wallet, and an iPad Mini without giving you any extra space.
Features of BAGSMART DSLR Camera Bag
- Dimensions: 11.8 x 7 x 17 inches
- Max. compatible device size: 15 Inches
- Tripod Storage: Available
- Weight: 2.3 lbs
- Color: Black
Pros
- Large capacity camera backpack
- Quick side access
- Features anti-theft zippers
- Comes with customizable Space
Cons
- No laptop compartment
What Should You Look Out For When Buying A Camera Bag And Case?
While no size fits all, here are some of the important things you must consider when buying from one of the best camera bags and cases:
- Extra compartment and pockets
- Durability and portability
- Look out for soft padding
- Invest in waterproof bags and cases
- Storage capacity
- The height of the camera bag and lens storage
What Is The Best Camera Bag And Case To Buy?
MindShift PhotoCross Backpack 13 is the best camera bag and case for you. It has all that you need for carrying your gear. The backpack features a removable insert, with room for your laptop, tablet, or other daily essentials.
For your photography needs the bag provides insulation, rain cover, and plenty of external pockets. It is easy to open and close and the compartments are easy to access.
Best Camera Bags And Cases: FAQs
Can a camera bag be a carry-on?
Yes. No matter how you’re traveling, a carry-on camera bag can keep your camera gear safe and secure.
What should you keep in your camera bag?
- Camera of course
- Memory card or memory stick
- Lens cleaning cloth and filters
- Batteries and chargers
- Lens and lens cap at all times
- Tripod for low-light situations
What are camera bags made of?
Camera bags can be made of several different materials. While most are made of vinyl or polyester, or some combination of the two, there are also much smaller selections in nylon and leather.
Camera bags made of canvas are best for casual, short mirrorless cameras. They are inexpensive and durable.
But, these types of bags can carry only a small number of accessories, have no protection from water, cannot be used in cold temperature conditions, and cannot stand strong winds.
Best Camera Bags And Cases: Conclusion
If you’re a photographer, it’s highly likely that you need a camera bag that suits your many different types of equipment and accessories.
With different types evaluated in this article, you’ll be able to find something suitable for every occasion and built from the best materials possible.
However, the overall best camera bag and case is MindShift PhotoCross Backpack 13.
The PhotoCross is a backpack for camera enthusiasts who want their gear to go everywhere with them. MindShift created this pack for photographers on the go, with tons of versatility and functionality.
Well, MindShift PhotoCross Backpack 13 may cost a few more dollars than other bags on this list of the best camera bags and cases. So if you’re looking for something functional and more affordable, you can go for Tenba Solstice 10L Sling Bag.
Finally, since you’re out looking for the best camera bag and case for your needs, it may interest you to know I have carefully selected the best cameras for you.
Also here are the best lights for video production to shoot quality and professional videos. I encourage you to check out the lists.
I hope you found this article helpful. Thanks for reading.
Ready To Get Your Own MindShift PhotoCross Backpack 13?
Click the button below to get the best bag for your camera and gear today. It will soon be out of stock, therefore I advise you to act fast.
