As a professional photographer, carrying a single camera and standard lens with you will not be enough! It would be a bit more evident when you have undertaken a project that requires you to capture different kinds of shots, — such as when you are there to cover an event with large gatherings. In such cases, you would need a variety of lenses, tripods, different kinds of flashlights, etc. And, if you are planning to use a GoPro for full HD photography and videography, you would need some more stuff as well. Of course, you can’t hold all these in your hand, not safe either. So, obviously you would like to have one of the top camera bags at your disposal to keep all of your gears perfectly organized for outdoor photography.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Camera Bag
There are a few things worth keeping in mind before buying a camera bag (also known as camera cases). First and foremost, don’t fail to check out the material quality and durability as they play a key role in keeping your camera gears secure. The inclusion of padded straps and chest straps come in handy when you want to carry your gears comfortably.
In the smaller racks, you will be able to store a handful of various camera lenses, and they’re arranged in an easily accessible manner. There are some pretty small compartments that can be used to store further accessories such as chargers, USBs, or SD Cards.
- Made of polyester and nylon
- Multiple compartments to store accessories
- Protective design
- Durable shoulder straps
Cons:
Price: $24.90
This product from Case Logic isn’t a backpack but a camera bag that you can carry around very easily, without feeling the weight on the back. Of course, the number of devices that can be stored is limited to one. Yet, if you are sure that you would have to carry a point-and-shoot camera or a high-zoom camera, you can go with Case Logic DCB-304 Hybrid Camera Case, which is available at an incredibly affordable price.
The size of the bag is 7″x 4″x 6″ so it will not fit cameras such as Canon EOS Rebel T3 EF-S 18-55 II so do keep that in mind. Talking of additional features, you’d love to have the wall that splits the bag into two: in the first, you can store the camera body whereas dedicating the second one for a common set of accessories such as lenses, spare batteries, etc.
Cons:
Price: $11.69
Pros:
Price: $19.36
Cons:
- Doesn’t fit Mirrorless cameras or DSLRs
- Old-fashioned design
Price: $15.99
Price: $25.95
This quite-spacious camera bag can be the optimal companion for the professional photographer and cinematographers, who wants to grab not only the camera and accessories but also a laptop and related stuff. While the lower portion can house a camera body, a few lenses, and flashlight, there’s a dedicated space for media storage on top of that area.
Lastly, the dimensions of this bag are 18″x 12″x 8″, and it’s not weather-proof. Despite all these, it’s a matter of amusement that the backpack has a truly sleek design. Considering this feature-richness and affordable price, it’s good to go for.
Price: $59.99
Price: $17.99
If you are looking for a small and premium looking messenger camera bag that doesn’t break the bank, then check out the Kattee Leather Canvas Camera Bag. Costing just north of $40, the Kattee Leather Canvas Camera Bag has a lot to offer that we like. First of all, I love its durable retro design which looks really cool.
- Lacks a tripod holder
- The bottom is not padded
Price: $40.99
Pelican 1560 Carry On Watertight Case is one of the most expensive protective bags in this list, but it’s not actually a camera bag; rather, it’s a watertight bag that can be used to store your DSLR cameras and necessary accessories, as it comes with padded dividers.
It’s watertight with pressure equalization valve whereas the sturdy build ensures support from water, crush, and dust, right away. Keeping the notion of accessibility in mind, Pelican has added wheels that are made using polyurethane and the wheels have stainless steel bearings as well. Altogether, despite the cost, the camera bag does make enough sense.
Price: $213.95
10. Lowepro LP36955-PWW Photo Hatchback
Lowepro LP36955 Camera Bag is yet another full-fledged camera bag you can use when you need both comfort and spaciousness. This camera bag can be divided into different sections and each of these sections lets you store a particular kind of device or accessory. From a flexibility perspective, it’s a pretty useful feature.
- Impressive hack-back style opening
- Hatchback stand
- Removable camera compartment
- Water-repellent material
Price: $67.72
If you are looking for a premium camera bag, check out the Peak Design Everyday Messenger Bag which is one of the best messenger bags for housing and carrying cameras. Despite the fact that the bag looks so small from the outside, it can easily hold your cameras, lenses, and laptop, making this a great traveling accessory for photographers on the go.
- Seems a touch overpriced
- Interior doesn’t have a durable cushion
Price: $153.97
If you are someone who travels a lot to remote places seeking adventure then this bag is just for you. The Gitzo Adventury 30L DSLR Camera Backpack is created for people who seek the thrill of adventure and capture that thrill using their camera. The bag is perfect for landscape and adventure photographers who need to carry a full camera equipment kit in a safe, roomy, feature-rich, and outdoor-ready bag.
For example, you can easily carry cameras such as Canon EOS M5, Fujifilm X-Pro2, Fujifilm X-T1, Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7, Sony Alpha 7 II, and more.
Price: $249.88
Think Tank TurnStyle 20 V2.0 camera bag since looks starkly different from all the camera bags on this list and I love it just for that. Apart from its looks, the bag also wins big points for being highly functional. It offers easy rotation for rapid access to gear and accessories so that you don’t have to take off the bag from your back to use it.
That said, the bag cannot fit your laptop which might be a deal-breaker for many people. I feel that this bag is great for photographers who go out to take photographs but come back home to edit them. If that’s you, definitely check it out.
Price: $99.75
14. Zecti Waterproof Large Canvas Camera Bag
If you are on the look for a large camera bag, give a close look at Zecti bag. The bag features a rugged design with a cushioned interior to endure shock and keep scratches away from your camera and accessories. With the strong strap, you can comfortably carry your gears.
- Waterproof material
- Multiple pockets for accessories
- A rugged design with a strong cushioned interior
- ergonomic air mesh padding
Price: $76.99
If you have set your sight on buying a reasonably good camera bag under $30, do not miss out on this offering from CADEN. The backpack sports a rugged construction that can withstand shock with ease. And with the cushioned interior, it makes sure your camera and accessories remain protected.
The internal compartment can fit one Canon Nikon Sony DSLR SLR, three lenses, a flashlight, and other essential accessories. Notably, it also features a handy tripod holder, which enhances its reputation as a useful asset for outdoor photography. In terms of material, the camera bag is made of water repellent 900D polyester fabric, which makes it waterproof.
Price: $26.99
This offering from K&F Concept is a complete camera backpack. Featuring a modern-looking design, it has got all the bases covered to make a fine statement. First things first, it’s made of high-grade 840D high-density nylon material which makes it both water-resistant and tear-resistant.
Pros:
Last but not least, Endurax is a pragmatically designed camera bag. Featuring a spacious interior, padded dividers, and multiple pockets for accessories, it helps you keep all of your gears perfectly organized. The main compartment is good enough to let you store a DSLR, 4 camera lenses, and a flash. Additionally, it also provides a secure holder where your tripod can stay intact.
Cons:
- Doesn’t have strong padding inside
- The zipper is not strong
Price: $49.99
Why are camera bags so expensive?
Not all camera bags are expensive. Some are expensive due to high-quality water-resistant material and premium build quality.
There are several camera bags that can stake the claim of being the best in the business including K&F Concept, Peak Design, and USA Gear.
Aside from your camera, you can keep lenses, camera accessories, and even laptop/tablet in your camera bag.
What are camera bags made of?
Camera bags are made of many different materials including polyester, canvas, and water-resistant nylon material.
Yes. Most camera bags are carry-on bags so you can take the inside a flight with you.
