So you’ve just bought a new travel camera to capture memories on your next adventure. But how can you keep your camera safe and tote around all the camera gear you need?
You need a camera bag.
Whether you’re a pro or just love taking photos as a hobby, having a suitable camera bag is a convenient way to take your camera gear with you on your travels. From messenger bags to backpacks to bag inserts, we’ll comb through all the options and pick out some of the best camera bags in the market today.
Why You Need a Camera Bag
So you’ve just spent a great chunk of change on an unbeatable camera and now you’re ready to set out and start snapping some gorgeous shots. But wait for a second… how are you going to carry your camera?
Around your neck is just fine if you plan on simply strolling around with the body and a single lens. But what if you want to change lenses? How about if your SD card fills up? Want a still shot with a tripod?
This is why having a camera bag is imperative. By conveniently fitting all of your gear into one compact, accessible place, you’re ready for anything while shooting on the go.
Giving you a hands-free experience, camera bags allow you to have a shooting experience filled with everything you need while being free from sagging pockets. You’re able to travel anywhere to shoot without worrying about your camera bumping around.
So traverse into those mountainsides or go for some street photography in a busy city. Your camera bag allows you to carry everything you need for any situation.
Besides convenience, camera bags are designed to keep your expensive equipment safe.
Almost all camera bags come with padded pockets and compartments for storing lenses, flash, miscellaneous gear, and the camera’s body itself. You don’t have to worry about anything getting damaged because each component is packed into its own compartment for safekeeping until it’s ready to be used.
Finally, some camera bags even come with security features. This gives you some peace of mind while transporting your gear. With anti-theft components and hidden compartments, you’re able to travel around without fear of prying hands.
Types of Camera Bags
There are more than a handful of camera bag styles, so it’s good to know what your options are before purchasing one. Here are the main types of camera bags you’ll run into.
Shoulder Bags
Shoulder bags are the typical camera bag style.
With a single shoulder strap and flap top, shoulder bags allow you to access your equipment quickly and without hassle. There tends to be a few extra pockets, in addition to the main section of the bag to keep yourself organized. However, this type of bag is mainly just for the essentials.
Messenger Bags
If you like the idea of a shoulder bag but want to carry a little bit more, a messenger bag is a good solution.
Designed similarly, messenger bags also have a single strap (although typically longer), with a flap-style closure, but they’re designed to be a bit taller and slimmer. This allows you to fit not only your camera gear, but additional equipment like a laptop, notebook and anything else you need for a day of shooting.
You can also wear a messenger bag across your body whereas a shoulder bag typically stays on one shoulder.
Sling Bags
Sling bags are small bags in a backpack style, but with a single strap.
They don’t hang off your body the way shoulder or messenger bags do. Instead, they either sit on your back or come around to the front of your body when you need to access what’s inside. Sling bags are a much smaller option and aren’t for all of your gear. However, they’re a good fit for what you need on a standard shoot with a lens or two.
Backpacks
The age-old backpack is designed for allowing for hands-
free travel over any landscape. Camera backpacks are the most practical for large amounts of gear or heavy loads, as well as going farther distances. They’re comfortable to carry, and tend to be rather durable with lots of organization options.
That said, backpacks can be a pain when it comes to finding what you need with haste as you have to take the entire thing off to access what’s inside.
Also Read: Best DSLR Camera Buying Guide – Everything You Need to Know
Roller Bags
Not designed for daily use, but rather specifically for travel, roller bags are designed like your typical piece of luggage on wheels, albeit with a hard shell and internal padding to keep your things padded and in place.
Most camera roller bags are small enough to be taken into the cabin with you on a plane. However, it’s smart idea to check the exact dimensions and airline requirements beforehand.
Hard Cases
Camera Hard cases are the best for protecting your camera against impact and tough environments. With the extremely durable shell, hard cases can handle pretty much anything life throws at them while still keeping your gear safe and sound.
This option is rather heavy due to the added protection, so they aren’t practical for going far with. However, it’s worth it if there’s any concern about keeping your gear in top condition.
