Autobiography camera bags

In our guide to the best camera bags, we’re here to help you find the right bag for your camera kit. Whether you’re using a slimline compact camera or a chunky full-frame DSLR, a dedicated camera bag is a sensible investment for making sure you keep your gear safe and secure on your travels.

For photographers and videographers, a dedicated camera bag offers a suite of advantages over a conventional bag. Specialised camera bags come with padded interior dividers that can be rearranged and moulded around the unique contours of your kit. This prevents valuable and fragile cameras and lenses from rolling around and knocking into each other.

This guide represents some of the best camera bags our team of expert photographers have taken out and tested. We load camera bags up with kit to check their comfort and ease of use, and also test other features like weatherproofing and security measures.

We’ve included bags of all different sizes on this list to cover options at a range of price points. For more kit guides, check out our rundowns of the best tripods to buy and the best kit for wildlife photography. Scroll to the end to read some helpful tips on how to pick your ideal camera bag.

Best camera bags – the quick list:

Looking for the best deal on camera bags? Not only will you find the best camera bags, but also some of the best deals, as our ‘Buy now’ buttons are setup to automatically take you to the best prices from trusted retailers. You’ll also find a list of other retailers below each bag, so you can find the right deal for you.

• Best camera bag for photographers: Manfrotto Pro Light Multiloader Backpack M – buy now
• Best camera bag for travel: Shimoda Urban Explore 20 – buy now
• Best every day backpack: Vanguard Veo City B46 – buy now
• Best roll-top camera backpack: Wandrd Prvke 31 Backpack V3 – buy now
• Best professional camera backpack: Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II – buy now
• Best camera bag for mirrorless: Manfrotto Street Slim Backpack – buy now
• Best camera bag with laptop sleeve: Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L – buy now
• Best camera bag for DSLRs: Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack – buy now
• Best cheap camera backpack: Vanguard Veo Active 42M – buy now
• Best large camera backpack: Vanguard Alta Sky 68 – buy now
• Best camera sling bag: Think Tank Urban Access Sling 8 – buy now
• Best messenger bag for photographers: Billingham 307 – buy now

Want to know more? Read on as I run through the full specs of every camera bag on our list…

Best camera bag for photographers: Manfrotto Pro Light Multiloader Backpack

At a glance:

• 35.5 x 26 x 54 cm external dimensions
• Holds 2 cameras and 8 lenses
• 15in laptop compartment
• Price: $239 / £184

This exceptional backpack earned the full five stars in our recent review. For serious photographers, it is pretty much perfect. There’s plenty of room, with dimensions of 35.5 x 26 x 54 cm, but what sets the Multiloader apart is its quick-access functionality. The single zip running along the outside can be opened in numerous different ways thanks to four zip pulls, giving flexible access to the side panels and front section.

It’s a sizeable bag – it would be a hefty prospect full up – but I felt that the harness distributes the weight well and makes it easy to carry. If your equipment justifies its size, the Manfrotto Pro Light Multiloader Backpack M is a compelling choice.

Read our Manfrotto Pro Light Multiloader Backpack M review.

Best camera bag for travel: Shimoda Urban Explore 20

At a glance:

• 27 x 43 x 20 cm external dimensions
• Holds 1 camera and 3-4 lenses
• 13in laptop compartment
• Price: $280 / £285

Stylish, slim and brilliantly engineered, the Shimoda Urban Explore 20 earned the full five stars from our review team. It is one of the best camera bags to cross our desks. Comfortable to wear, with plenty of space for a camera, lenses and extra accessories, this backpack is designed in particular for urban photographers and those who enjoy city breaks. It has access points at the rear and the side, making it easier to grab things quickly, and is constructed from durable Cordura fabric. A metal frame inside and a protective camera compartment help keep your gear safe; from bumps and knocks as well as opportunistic thieves.

This all comes at a cost, as the Shimoda Urban Explore is one of the more expensive bags on our list. It’s also worth noting that the version we tested was the smallest 20L capacity, suited to smaller camera setups. Those using DSLRs or larger full-frame mirrorless cameras may want to consider the 25L or 30L versions.

Read our Shimoda Urban Explore 20 review.

Best everyday camera bag: Vanguard Veo City B46 backpack

At a glance:

• 21L Capacity (12L and 16L also available)
• Grey or Navy colour options
• Rear camera access
• RFID protected pocket
• 320 × 230 × 470mm, 2.4kg
• Price: $220 / £219

This brand new offering from Vanguard is a stylish everyday bag with lots of essential design features for the modern city and travel photographer. Its design is fairly typical, with a top-opening compartment for personal items and access to the main camera compartment via the rear. There is no side access to the camera compartment. It is possible to access a camera via the top, though at the expense of the top compartment.

The top compartment is adequate for ready-access things like food or a packable jacket. It also has a zipped compartment with two internal velcroed pockets. These have red and green markers; a good option for storing charged and used batteries. The top section also contains a tablet compartment, into which I was able to fit a 10″ tablet in its case.

We esteem this a premium bag; albeit with a few quirks. With plenty of sections and pockets, it should will satisfy many types of photographers.

Read our recent full review of the Vanguard Veo City B46 backpack.

Best roll-top camera backpack: Wandrd Prvke 31 Backpack V3

At a glance:

• 48 x 30 x18cm external dimensions
• Holds 1 camera and 2-4 lenses
• 16in laptop sleeve
• Price: $324 (bundle) / £285

Wandrd makes a range of wipe-clean Prvke backpacks and the 31L sits between the 21L and 41L capacity versions. Thanks to its roll-closed top section with a large hooked-fastener, its capacity can vary between 31 and 36L, and I always seem to be able to squeeze in just one more thing.

The Prvke has two sections with the lower section accepting Wandrd’s Camera Cubes, one of which comes in the ‘Photography Bundle’ that retails for $324 / £251.

As it’s a rear-opening bag, I need to remove the Wandrd Prvke 31 from the back before I can access all my gear, but it also makes it more secure. However, there’s a small side opening that gives quick access to a section of the lower part of the bag, which is perfect when I just want to swap lenses.

Read our Wandrd Prvke 31 Backpack V3 review.

Best professional camera backpack: Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II

At a glance:

• 36 x 22 x 52 cm external dimensions
• Holds 2 cameras and 6-8 lenses
• 15in laptop sleeve
• Price: $200 / £269 (new version)

This 25L pro-level backpack is very well padded and is highly customisable. It has a semi-rigid lid, a thick base and the usual collection of foam-core re-positionable dividers inside its 30x16x44cm main compartment. It’s suitable for housing a large camera with a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached and several other lenses and accessories.

The main access is via the back of the bag, but there are also access points on both sides and the top flips open to give a route to smaller items or a camera with a long lens when the centre section of the main compartment is cleared of dividers.

Read our Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II review.

Best camera bag for mirrorless: Manfrotto Street Slim Backpack

At a glance:

• 43 x 29 x 18cm external dimensions
• Holds 1 camera and 3-4 lenses
• 13in laptop sleeve
• Price: $110 / £87

This smart and affordable backpack is a great choice for a day trip with a mirrorless camera. Split into two sections, the top half is for personal effects and the bottom half for camera gear. The camera section has enough room for a body and three lenses up to 19cm long. It has 12L capacity.

I liked the unpadded top section, it is perfect for carrying an extra layer or two, a packed lunch or overnight essentials. There’s also a collection of internal pockets for personal effects and spare batteries. In addition, there are external pockets on either side to hold a drink or compact tripod.

Read our Manfrotto Street Slim Backpack review.

Best camera bag with a laptop sleeve: Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L

At a glance:

• 48.5-66 x 28 x 15 cm external dimensions
• Holds 1 cameras and 3-4 lenses
• 16in laptop sleeve
• Price: $249.95 / £249.99

With a generous 16-inch laptop sleeve, this bag from Peak Design is ideal for anyone who wants to take their photo-editing setup on the go. Part of a relatively new range, the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L is designed for those who like an outdoorsy adventure, equipped as it is a tough, weather-resistant outer material and an optional Rain Fly cover. The straps are comfortable and the interior is capacious – just what you want.

The Outdoor Backpack isn’t a photographer’s backpack in the first instance – you can make it into one by adding Peak Design’s dedicated Camera Cubes. Annoyingly, this is an extra expense, but it does all fit together rather well once you do it, with loops inside the backpack that let you clip the cubes into position. Also, the backpack isn’t too expensive in the first instance.

In our full review, we came away impressed from our time with the Peak Design 25L Outdoor Backpack. Having dual access points makes it highly useable when you’re out and about, and while the Camera Cubes are an extra expense, being able to swap the backpack from everyday to photo-focused makes it extra versatile.

Read our full Peak Design 25L Outdoor Backpack review.

Best camera bag for DSLRs: Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack

At a glance:

• 28 x 51 x 20 cm external dimensions
• Holds 1 camera body and 3 lenses
• 16in laptop sleeve
• Price: $230 / £199

The two-section DNA 16 DSLR Backpack can accommodate a mirrorless or DSLR camera and 2 or 3 lenses including a 70-200mm f/2.8. It also has a laptop section that can house computers up to 16 inches in size.

The camera compartment is at the bottom of the bag and when the padded insert is removed, it can turn the bag into a regular backpack. When the insert is in place, however, it can tip forward when the zip is opened to give easier access to your kit. Tenba plumped for a roll-close top section for this bag, which gives some flexibility in capacity.

Best cheap camera backpack: Vanguard Veo Active 42M

At a glance:

• 27 x 19 x 44 cm external dimensions
• Holds 1 camera and 3-4 lenses
• 13in laptop sleeve
• Price: $200 / £160

This 17L rear-access backpack is designed for carrying a mirrorless camera with 3 or 4 lenses including a 70-200mm in its removable camera insert. Meanwhile, the top section is available to hold accessories and personal items. There are also mounting points, which allow for carrying a tripod on the front or side of the bag. Additionally, there are dedicated pockets for a 13-inch laptop and 10-inch tablet and a sealed pocket for a 1L hydration pouch.

The outer fabric is tough ripstop nylon while the bright yellow interior makes it easy to see your kit in low light. There’s also a pass-through for a USB cable from a pocket that can hold a power bank – perfect for charging your phone on the move.

Read our Vanguard VEO Active 42M review.

Best large camera backpack: Vanguard Alta Sky 68

At a glance:

• 36 x 23 x 59.5 cm external dimensions
• Holds 1 camera body and 8 lenses
• 16in laptop sleeve
• Price: $300 / £270

Vanguard’s Alta Sky 68 backpack is designed for people who want to carry a larger camera with a lot of hefty lenses. As such, it’s big enough to cope with an 800mm f/5.6 lens attached to a pro-level DSLR or mirrorless camera. And it can carry up to around 7 other lenses.

With weight in mind, the Sky Alta 68 has well-padded and contoured shoulder straps with sternum and load-lifter straps. It is possible to adjust the padded and breathable 3D back panel, with extra padding against the shoulder blades and the lower back, across three settings according to the height of the person carrying the backpack.

Best camera sling bag: Think Tank Urban Access Sling 8

At a glance:

• 37 x 20 x 13 cm external dimensions
• Holds 1 camera and 2-3 lenses
• 8-inch tablet sleeve
• Price: $120 / £119

A good sling bag can be ideal for urban street shooting. Lightweight and manoeuvrable, these can be worn on either shoulder and slung around the body for quick access to gear without needing to remove it. The Think Tank Urban Access Sling 8 is one of our favourites. It’s designed to hold a mirrorless setup and two or three lenses to suit the light-travelling street photographer, and it offers camera access from either side.

There’s a useful tripod attachment on the front of the bag, and the Urban Access 8 also offers an 8-inch sleeve for a small tablet. A removable webbing waist belt affords some extra security and stability, if needed, and a well-sealed rain cover is included. While space is limited, it’s pitched about right for the type of user who’ll want a sling bag – if your gear is much bigger than this, a backpack will be a better fit.

Best messenger bag for photographers: Billingham 307

At a glance:

• Designed to hold a laptop
• Holds a large DSLR, several lenses plus flash
• No laptop sleeve
• Price: $496 / £483

Every Billingham bag is instantly recognisable, and the 307 displays the same traditional styling consistent throughout the Billingham range. It may be one of the most expensive bags in this roundup, by a long way, but the 307 is made to a high standard, with an exterior made of durable FibreNyte – a lightweight synthetic alternative to canvas. The bag can be carried comfortably using the padded shoulder strap or the large top handle, with the top flap secured by a quick-access buckle.

A top zip acts as a secondary seal, and easily glides open. Inside is space for a DSLR with lens attached, and a further four lens or flash units within the well padded dividers. However, there is no dedicated pocket for small accessories, or for a laptop/tablet.

You’ll be able to find this bag for up to half the price if you settle for a used option.

Choosing a suitable camera bag

Most of our picks are camera backpacks as they are the most versatile and suit most photographers’ needs. But whichever type you choose – sling bag or messenger type included – a good photographer’s bag should contain enough interior space, be comfortable to carry for long periods, and tough enough to withstand adverse conditions and the odd mishap.

Many camera bags have quick-access options, with extra flaps and zips that allow you to swing the bag around and grab kit without having to completely remove it. You may also want to think about weatherproofing – some camera backpacks are made from water-repellent fabric, and/or have pull-out rain covers.

Those already in the market for a backpack and are security-conscious about your gear should check out our Best rear-loading backpack guide to find out why they’re a good idea and the ones I rate highly.

There are great affordable options in our guide to the best second-hand messenger bags.

For extra items like a water bottle, charging bank, notebook etc., you may want to pick up a bag with external pockets. Some camera backpacks also have tripod attachments. Also, if you’re carrying a lot of weight (like a DSLR and multiple lenses), consider a bag with a waist belt or harness, to alleviate some of the weight from the shoulders. In either case, padded straps are a good idea. It’s also common for camera backpacks to have laptop sleeves for safely storing a portable computer – useful for editing your images on the go.

Are camera bags allowed on planes?

The vast majority of camera bags, and all of the ones featured on this list, will almost certainly be allowed on a plane. Most camera bag manufacturers will keep their bags within the dimensions that are commonly allowed for cabin luggage, meaning you should be able to have your camera bag close to hand and won’t need to check it in. Naturally, these requirements will vary from airline to airline, so it is always worth checking before you travel.

Taking your camera with you on a trip? Have a quick look at our top five carry-on cabin bags for flying with camera kit.

How should I pack my camera?

Always postition your camera with lens on facing down, these delicate structures are very susceptible for dust and if you store them facing upward any loose particles can make their way to your mirror or camera sensor.

Are camera bags washable?

Camera bags are not something you can just throw inside your washing machine, this can ruin the inserts and padding and disintegrate the water resistant coating. However, if it does come to cleaning it, you can try diluting a small amount of washing up liquid in warm water, and use a damp lint free cloth to gently wipe down the bag. Always make sure to air dry it completely afterwards.

How to keep your camera bag dry?

You can try dehumidifier bags or silica-gel pack to keep moisture away. Also, store your gear in an ideal environment. Remember, if you have been out on a cold day, don’t bring your bag straight into the heated house and unpack. Instead, leave it inside your camera bag in a cool dry place until it reaches room temperature.

Text by Angela Nicholson, with contributions from Jon Stapley, Michael Topham and AP Staff.

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