Best Camera Bag of 2019 – Complete Reviews with Comparisons
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when traveling with your equipment is to bring only a padded case in which you will store your camera and extra lenses. Such a simple mistake can result in a few hundred (or even thousands) dollars’ worth of damage.
While a padded case can be a great addition to your equipment, only a proper camera bag can leave you worry-free when it comes to the protection of your camera and extras. Luckily for you, the offers available are quite wide as there are a number of high-quality models available on e-commerce sites like Amazon. It is not uncommon to find a high-quality camera bag for an extremely affordable price.
That is why investing extra time in searching for one is a must. We realize that making the right decision is not always simple, and that is the reason why we decided to come up with a top 5 list highlighting the best camera bags on the market. Along with that, we have created buyer’s guide and answered some frequently asked questions to make the buying process a bit easier.
Comparison Chart
Best Camera Bag Reviews
AmazonBasics DSLR Gadget Bag
If you thought that affordable and spacious can’t go together, you are wrong as the AmazonBasics DSLR Gadget Bag is the perfect example of such a product. Manufactured and sold by a trusted e-tailer, there is no doubt why it is one of the bestsellers when it comes to innovative camera bags.
Product Highlights
Made of sturdy canvas and featuring a water-resistant layer, this AmazonBasics bag proves to be a great deal for all photo enthusiasts. Starting off with its innovative design, this bag comes with a black exterior and an orange interior. The dimensions are 12.5 x 9.1. x 7.3 inches which fit the TSA standards when it comes to carry-on items.
Talking about the capacity of this bag, it is quite spacious, as you can fit at least one DSLR and three extra lenses in the main compartment. Apart from that, it includes a top accessory pocket which is suitable for extras such as batteries, SD cards, cables, and lens caps. Not to forget, there is a zippered front pocket in which you can put your valuables.
On top of all that, this bag features straps that support a tripod. As for the carrying methods, you can either grab it by the comfortable handle or use the adjustable shoulder strap and wear it the traditional cross way. Still, the biggest problem with this bag is the shoulder strap as it is not comfortable or sturdy enough for heavier use. However, if everything is to be considered, this is a great choice for the price you are paying.
What's to like about the AmazonBasics DSLR Gadget Bag
While this AmazonBasics camera bag comes with a number of cool features, the best thing about it is the large compartment in which you can fit a DSLR as well as a few extra lenses. Apart from that, you can turn it into a regular leisure bag and use it for iPad mini, Google Nexus, or Amazon Kindle Fire storage as well. Overall, a compact and spacious large compartment, allowing enough space for a few days trip.
What's not to like about the AmazonBasics DSLR Gadget Bag
A major flaw of this product is the weak strap that brings a lot of weight to the shoulder area. Along with that, carrying the bag itself comes with a lot of squeaky noises which can be quite irritating after a few steps.
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Altura Camera Sling Backpack
Innovative and compact, this Altura Camera Sling Backpack is another great example of a great value-for-money product.
Product Highlights
The main feature of this bag is that it allows good capacity without looking or feeling bulky. The dimensions are 17 x 8.1 x 6.4 which means it perfectly fits the TSA size requirements for overhead baggage (22 x 14 x 9 inches).
The Altura Camera Bag is well-made and with proper use, you should expect to get at least a few years use out of it. On top of everything, it comes with a 90-day warranty which will cover you for any built-in or material defects.
What makes this bag so unique is the padded sling strap which allows you to rotate this bag and bring it from your back to your front without taking it off.
When it comes to capacity, this bag can hold more than what it seems. First, it includes a large main compartment that has foam-padded internal dividers that act as shock-proof agents and damage protection. You can fit one DSLR body as well as three zoom lenses in the main pouch. It comes with a zippered mesh pocket, much like the top compartment.
While the top compartment is smaller, it still allows enough space for any extras or equipment accessories to fit in. Last but not least, there is an exterior tripod holder that comes in handy for long travel trips. Although the bag is quite comfortable, the shoulder and zipper quality isn't ideal.
What's to like about the Altura Camera Sling Backpack
There are a number of things to like about this product – still, our personal favorite is the divided main compartment. With enough space for a few days’ trip, this comfortable sling bag will allow you to stay worry-free when it comes to the safety of your camera equipment.
What's not to like about the Altura Camera Sling Backpack
Every product has a flaw, so it comes as no surprise that the Altura Camera Backpack does as well. The straps could be stronger, and while the zippers look sturdy, they tend to struggle and break after heavier use.
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AmazonBasics Backpack For SLR/DSLR
As we have already chosen one AmazonBasics product, it is easy to see why we would choose another – affordable and compact, the AmazonBasics Backpack for SLR/DSLR is a durable product, perfect for longer trips.
Product Highlights
A critical feature in any review is the material the relevant product is made of. We are talking about a polyester and nylon camera bag, and while it may not look like it, it is very well-made. Backed by a 1-year Amazon warranty, you can expect to get proper use out of it before it starts falling apart.
As with almost any AmazonBasics product, this one comes with a comfortable shoulder strap, and adjustable waist and chest straps. The whole idea is to allow for weight-free carrying, and this camera bag really does succeed at it.
When it comes to the capacity, it includes a large main compartment in which you can fit up to two DSLR camera bodies and 4-5 camera lenses. Apart from the main compartment, there is a zippered mesh pocket, as well as a front pouch that is perfect for extras such as SD cards, batteries, or your valuables.
Not to forget, the side pockets come in handy especially if you want to use it as a carry-on or a leisure travel bag and you want to have a snack or two by your side. With an ample interior to protect your equipment from damage, this bag is a great choice for the needs of a professional.
What's to like about the AmazonBasics Backpack For SLR/DSLR
There are a variety of good things about this AmazonBasics product, with the main one being the low cost it comes at. Apart from offering high capacity, and a number of extra pockets, this bag comes at an extremely affordable price allowing anyone to have a high-quality camera bag that will not leave them broke.
What's not to like about the AmazonBasics Backpack For SLR/DSLR
The main flaw of this product is the weak handle and shoulder strap. While the bag itself is quite comfortable and durable, carrying it by the handle when it is full may result in tearing.
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CADeN DSLR Camera Bag
If you are looking for an innovative camera bag that can hold a lot of equipment, you are in the right place as this CADeN product is a durable and spacious perfect for any photo enthusiast.
Product Highlights
While the attractive design doesn’t have to be the critical factor in making the right decision, it is always a plus, and as this one comes in four color variations – khaki, black, army green and camouflage – so you will get to choose the one that suits your style.
There are a number of innovative features that this product comes with. Starting off with durability, it is made out of high-resistance nylon that is waterproof and provides good external protection. Along with that, it features a breathable back panel which comes in handy if you are to be hiking in a hot environment.
With a three-piece buckle design, you can be sure of the safety of your camera equipment. While it may not look like it, this camera bag is extremely comfortable and with a shock-proof shoulder strap, carrying it for a few hours’ time will be a pleasurable experience. On top of all that, the CADeN company includes a 3-year warranty for any built-in defects.
This bag is the perfect carry-on size (12.2 x 9.45 x 4.72 inches), lightweight (0.68 lbs.), and portable. The CADeN may not be the best choice for a long trip, but it still offers enough space for one DSLR camera as well as at least three extra lenses. The main compartment is easy to access using the drawstring closure.
Along with it, there is a detachable DIY inner bag as well as a bottom tripod holder. To ensure that there is enough space for equipment extras and your valuables, this bag comes with four inner pockets (SD cards, batteries) as well as two external pockets adequate for your wallet, keys, and phone.
Not to forget, this camera bag features a cover that will protect it from any harsh weather conditions such as rain or strong wind. Overall, a versatile bag that is a great choice for a travel photographer.
What's to like about the CADeN DSLR Camera Bag
To be honest, given its size, it comes as quite a surprise that the CADeN bag is this spacious. With a large main compartment, a few inner and outer mesh pockets, as well as a tripod holder, it is a great bag that can be suitable for a long adventure.
What's not to like about the CADeN DSLR Camera Bag
Still, there are a few cons as well. First, the drawstring closure is not as simple as the instructions suggest and you need more than two seconds in order to access your camera. Along with that, the outer mesh pockets aren't big enough for anything other than your wallet or keys.
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BAGSMART Camera Bag
Affordable and sturdy, this BAGSMART product is an excellent choice for anyone who requires a small and compact camera bag.
Product Highlights
Starting off with the dimensions, this bag stands at 9.8 x 7.4 x 5 1 in size, and 0.45 kg in weight, which means it can act as a carry-on item for your airplane flight. Coming in grey, heather blue, and heather red, it is made out of durable polyester and has a water-resistant layer for external protection.
Along with that, it comes with a strengthened bottom and a rain cover to protect it from harsh weather conditions. The bag itself is well-made and with a detachable shoulder strap, it allows a few carry methods. Plus, you can attach it to your suitcase and maximize your carrying effort.
As for the capacity, this bag offers enough space for the needs of a professional. Starting off with the main compartment, it is separated with two padded dividers (removable), creating the perfect space for one DSLR camera and a few lenses. Along with that, there is enough room for SD cards, batteries, and other accessories that could be fit in some of the six mesh pockets.
While it does include enough extra pockets, the bag is still quite tight and it doesn’t fit larger DSLR cameras, which can be an issue for professional photographers. Still, it is a compact bag for a great price.
What's to like about the BAGSMART Camera Bag
The best thing about this bag is the high-resistance polyester it is made out of. While it may look cheap, this bag is quite sturdy, and you can expect to get at least a few years use out of it with proper use and care.
What's not to like about the BAGSMART Camera Bag
While this bag offers enough space for an average photographer’s needs, it is quite tight, and the mesh pockets aren't big enough. Along with that, unless you know ways of effectively packing, the main compartment can be quite shallow for large DSLR models.
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BUYER'S GUIDE
Investing in a high-quality camera bag is a must if you are to travel with your camera.
Without it, you are putting your equipment at risk of damage and a few hundred dollars’ worth of repairs.
As the online offers are quite vast, choosing the right one is not that simple. There are a number of important features that may or may not affect your decision.
In order to help you, we came up with a buyer’s guide to highlight some of the critical points. Let’s take a look.
Types
There are many different camera bag types and it all depends on what you are looking for.
The main five types are a roller bag, a shoulder bag, a sling bag, a backpack, and a modular bag. Some are better for transportation, others for on-the-go use.
Still, one doesn’t have to exclude the features of the others, which means that if you are willing to invest in proper camera equipment, buying just one will have all the features you need.
A backpack may come in handy for your hiking adventure, while a roller bag is perfect for point A to point B transportation.
Size
Once again, the size of the camera bag you choose depends on your needs. The more equipment you are planning to carry, the larger the bag must be.
Still, our recommendation is to keep it below 22 x 14 x 9 inches as anything above that can’t be considered as a carry-on. In most of the cases, a medium-sized camera backpack will be somewhere around 16 x 10 x 7 inches. This will allow you to safely take your photography gear with you wherever you go.
Style
Similar to camera bag types, style is mostly connected to the carrying method. If you enjoy a cross carry, a shoulder bag or a sling bag is the right choice for you. Along with the handle, camera pouches are always a great feature, while waist bags are pretty cool if you are off
Concept
There are two different camera bag concepts: active and passive. Active camera bags are for those people that are always on the go and want to have a light bag to keep their camera equipment safe and protected.
The active concept includes modular bags, shoulder bags, sling bags, and backpacks. On the other hand, the passive concept includes bags adequate for simple transportation, such as rollers, as these aren't the best option if you are constantly on the go.
Quality
High price doesn’t always mean high quality as it is the material that plays a critical role.
Your best bet is to look for a camera bag that is made out of durable canvas material and is double-sewn.
Along with that, common materials are polyester and high-resistance nylon. A proper camera bag should be water-resistant and include a separate rain cover.
F.A.Q.
How to pack a camera bag
The main idea of a camera bag is to protect and transport your pricey equipment safely. The most important concept in packing your camera bag is to leave behind as much as you can. Focus on extra SD cards and batteries, and take only two or three camera lenses. Less is more. Place the most important items in the easiest to reach spots.
How to organize a camera bag
While organizing and packing for your trip is the boring part, it doesn’t have to be a burden. If your camera bag includes removable dividers getting the most out of the storage spaces will not be a problem.
Use the main compartment to store your DSLR body and a few extra lenses (separately). If there is no room in the large main pouch, fit the extra SD cards and batteries inside the mesh pockets. Last but not least, if there isn’t a tripod holder, don’t take one with you.
Do I need a camera bag?
Unless you want to risk damaging your camera equipment or getting robbed, you absolutely do. A camera bag is a long-term investment into protecting your very expensive camera gear.
How to make a camera bag
If you enjoy doing DIY work, and you love making custom things, making a camera bag can be a fun process. Decide on the material (canvas, polyester, nylon), get the stitching equipment and create an outline.
Once you know the size and the number of pockets, stitch the material together and dye your DIY camera bag with spray color. Add some padding inside to keep your camera and lenses safe. Don’t forget to add a durable zip or buckle closure.
How to waterproof a camera bag
Most camera bags feature a waterproof layer that will protect your camera equipment from external damage.
A rain cover works great as well. If your camera bag doesn’t include either of the two, investing in a waterproof spray and applying it to your camera bag before travel is a good DIY method of protecting your camera bag from water damage.
FINAL VERDICT
If your plan is to become a professional photographer and travel across the globe as a part of your profession, you can’t go without a camera bag. We hope this article will make your decision a simple one, and we wish you a good luck in making the right decision. Not to forget, our personal favorite is the Altura Camera Backpack – spacious, sturdy and attractive, it is the perfect active sling bag for a traveling photographer.