If you’re a serious photographer or videographer, one of the best camera bags is an essential purchase. I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing camera bags, and the options on this list are the ones our review team and I genuinely recommend, based on comfort, durability, ease of use, weatherproofing, security, and more.
Dedicated camera bags differ from regular backpacks; they include padded, configurable dividers that protect cameras, lenses and accessories from knocking into each other in transit. Many are also weatherproof and come with extra features such as padded straps, waist belts, laptop sleeves or tripod holders
I tend to favour camera backpacks, so this list is quite backpack-heavy, but I have also included other bag types, like sling bags and messenger bags, and ‘bag inserts’ that convert regular backpacks into camera-ready storage for the budget-conscious. If you’re unsure how to choose, scroll to the bottom of this page, where I’ve included answers to some of the most common questions we receive about camera bags plus links to other kit guides like best tripods to buy and the best kit for wildlife photography.
Best camera bags – the quick list:
- Best camera bag for photographers: Vanguard VEO Metro B25L – Buy now
- Best roll-top camera backpack: Wandrd PRVKE 21 V4 – Buy now
- Best camera bag for day trips: Manfrotto Street Slim Backpack – Buy now
- Best camera bag with laptop sleeve: Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L – Buy now
- Best front-opening camera backpack: Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack – Buy now
- Best trekking daypack: Vanguard Veo Active 42M – Buy now
- Best backpack for long lenses: Vanguard Alta Sky 42 – Buy now
- Best sling bag for photographers: Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling Bag 5L – Buy now
- Best messenger bag for photographers: Billingham Hadley Pro 2020 – Buy now
- Best compact rangefinder-style camera bag: Billingham TEN-16 – Buy now
- Best backpack insert: Vanguard VEO BIB F33 – Buy now
- Best shoulder bag insert: Tenba BYOB 10 – Buy now
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 set 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.
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The best camera bags you can buy today:
Best overall
Best camera bag for photographers: Vanguard VEO Metro B25L
Amateur Photographer verdict
The Vanguard VEO Metro B25L looks good and will hold a useful amount of camera kit. It’s packed full of useful pockets and features and is really nicely made, too.- Sensibly sized
- Vast array of useful pockets
- Good protection for your camera kit
- Comfortable to carry
- Can’t really think of anything
| Specifications | Vanguard Veo Metro B25L |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 12 x 8.9 x 18,3 inch / 30.5 x 22.5 x 46.5 cm |
| Weight | 4,2lb / 1.9kg |
| Capacity | Holds a camera and 4 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | 16-inch laptop sleeve |
This exceptional backpack earned the full five stars in our review. There’s enough room for up to four lenses and a camera body, with dimensions of 30.5 x 22.5 x 46.5 cm. The removable upper section lets you reconfigure it from shoot to shoot. Add to this the versatile design which allows for quick access from the rear, side and top and you have a perfect everyday camera backpack.
There’s sensible space for camera gear, personal items and a 16-inch laptop, while the harness system makes it comfortable to carry even when fully loaded. Its clean urban design doesn’t scream camera bag, making it ideal for everyday use and travel.
Read our full review of the Vanguard Veo Metro B25L
Best roll-top
Best roll-top camera backpack: Wandrd PRVKE 21 V4
Amateur Photographer verdict
Weather-resistant, modular and secure, this brilliant backpack is a great daypack for photographers without too much kit.- Comfortable and durable
- Modular design moulds to your setup
- Side, rear and top access options
- Less capacious than rivals
- Waist belt costs extra
- Camera Cube only included in bundles
| Specifications | Wandrd PRVKE 21 V4 |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 17 x 11 x 5.5" / 43.2 x 27.9 x 15.9 cm |
| Weight | 2.98 lb / 1.3 kg |
| Capacity | Holds 1 camera and 2-4 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | 16-inch laptop sleeve |
I’ve been a huge fan of Wandrd’s camera bags for some time now, and the refined V4 version of the PRVKE 21 is one of the best I’ve ever tested. Retaining the stylish roll-top design of previous incarnations, now it includes a zipped opening for faster access to the upper section, as well as more comfortable straps. The internal storage feels really versatile; it moulded brilliantly around my setup, but could easily be reworked for something quite different. You get a laptop sleeve, a tablet sleeve, an AirTag pocket and memory card organisers, and multiple options to access your kit.
It is hardy enough to protect your gear, with PVC-coated tarpaulin and DWR-treated zips repelling rain and dirt. Tote-style handles also give you an extra option for grabbing the bag off a shelf or luggage rack (though if I do have one nitpick, it’s that these handles interfere a little with accessing the roll-top zip). While you can buy the bag on its own (Wandrd offering 15L, 31L and 41L versions), it’s worth spending a little more and getting the Photography Bundle which includes the Essential Camera Cube for storing and protecting your camera and lenses. As the name implies, it is, well, essential.
Read my Wandrd PRVKE 21 V4 review.
Best for day trips
Best camera bag for day trips: Manfrotto Street Slim Backpack
Amateur Photographer verdict
Cleverly designed and well made, the Manfrotto Street Slim Backpack would be a good choice for photographers taking a day trip or city break.- Very light
- Camera and laptop inserts are removable
- Front and back access
- I found this to be uncomfortable when full
| Specifications | Manfrotto Street Slim Backpack |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 16.9 x 11.4 x 7.1" / 43 x 29 x 18cm |
| Weight | 1.8 lb / 0.8 kg |
| Capacity | Holds 1 camera and 3-4 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | 13-inch laptop sleeve |
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 a 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 a compact tripod.
Read our Manfrotto Street Slim Backpack review.
Best for laptops
Best camera bag with a laptop sleeve: Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L
Amateur Photographer verdict
Comfortable and spacious, the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L is great for hikers and photographers like (as long as you get the Camera Cubes) – plus, there’s a generous 16-inch laptop sleeve.- Comfortable to wear
- 16-inch laptop sleeve
- Dual entry points to main compartment
- Modular design
- Camera Cubes cost extra
- Front pouch not 100% secure
- Could do with a small top pocket
| Specifications | Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 25L |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 25.79 x 10.83 x 5.71" / 48.5-66 x 28 x 15 cm |
| Weight | 2.54 lbs / 1.2 kg |
| Capacity | Holds 1 camera body and 3-4 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | 16-inch laptop sleeve |
This bag from Peak Design is ideal for anyone who enjoys outdoor adventures. Equipped with a tough, weather-resistant outer material and an optional Rain Fly cover, it is ideal for those who want to take their photo-editing setup travelling. It even has a generous 16-inch laptop sleeve. The straps are comfortable, and the interior is capacious – not surprising it won the Reader’s Choice accessory of the year award at the AP Awards in 2025.
At first glance, an ordinary backpack – but by adding Peak Design’s dedicated Camera Cubes – which are annoyingly sold separately – it transforms into a photographer’s backpack. The cubes fit together rather well, with loops inside the backpack that let you clip them into position.
Thanks to the dual access points, it is highly usable 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. Also, if this one is a little large for your setup, we’ve also reviewed the excellent Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 18L, which is a great little daypack with many of the same features.
Read my Peak Design 25L Outdoor Backpack review.
Best front-opening
Best front-opening camera backpack: Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack
Amateur Photographer verdict
A versatile and customisable backpack that will carry a regular sized kit and accessories, however when fully loaded the shoulder straps could be more padded- Water-repellent materials
- Rolltop expands
- Removable camera insert
- On the pricey side
- Straps could be more padded
| Specifications | Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 15.7 x 12 x 5.5" / 28 x 51 x 20 cm |
| Weight | 2.7lbs / 1.22kg |
| Capacity | Holds 1 camera body and 3 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | 16-inch laptop sleeve |
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.
Read our Tenba DNA 16 DSLR backpack review.
Best trekking daypack
Best trekking daypack: Vanguard Veo Active 42M
Amateur Photographer verdict
A perfect size for a weekend photo kit for a city break and landscape shooting. However, wildlife photographers are advised to look at some of the larger sizes in the VEO Active range- Multiple tripod mounting points
- Useful USB pass-through for charging
- Tough outer material
- Other bags are more capacious
| Specifications | Vanguard Veo Active 42M |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 23.4 x 15 x 10.25" / 27 x 19 x 44 cm |
| Weight | 4.32 lbs/ 1.96 kg |
| Capacity | Holds 1 camera body and 3-4 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | 13-inch laptop sleeve |
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, plus a 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 for long lenses
Best camera backpack for long lenses: Vanguard Alta Sky 42
Amateur Photographer verdict
This specialist backpack will hold your camera with a large telephoto lens attached. It’s comfortable to carry and provides a good amount of space, with lots of dividers to keep things organised.- Holds pro camera with long telephoto zoom attached
- Comfortable to carry
- Lots of attachment points
- No space for personal items
| Specifications | Vanguard Alta Sky 42 |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 10.6 x 9.4 x 19.9in / 27 × 24 × 50,5cm |
| Weight | 4.1 lbs / 1.9 kg |
| Capacity | Holds 1 camera body with lens attached + 3-5 additional lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | 12.9in tablet (235 x 25 x 380mm) |
Vanguard’s Alta Sky backpack is designed specifically for sports, action or wildlife photographers who need to be able to carry their camera with a large telephoto lens attached. 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 4 other lenses.
With weight in mind, the Sky Alta 42 has generously padded back and shoulder straps, making it comfortable to carry even when fully loaded. The semi-rigid design allows it to stand upright, providing convenient access to your camera with the lens attached. There’s also a 12.9-inch tablet sleeve and multiple mounting points to carry things like a tripod, monopod, hiking poles, folding stool, and water bottles etc.
Read our Vanguard Alta Sky 42 review.
Best sling bag
Best camera sling bag: Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling Bag 5L
Amateur Photographer verdict
The Nomatic McKinnon camera sling 5L bag is a stylish and versatile camera bag made for smaller mirrorless cameras- High quality materials
- Water resistant
- Comfy strap
- No outside pockets
| Specifications | Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling Bag 5L |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 55 x 11 x 7in / 14 x 28 x 18cm |
| Weight | 2.54 lbs / 0.59 kg |
| Capacity | Holds 1 camera body and 1-2 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | No |
The Nomatic McKinnon 5L slingbag takes a small or mid-sized mirrorless camera and one or two lenses. A small and easy-to-carry bag with a quick latch system, ideal for street photography or short trips where you don’t want to carry too much equipment around. A convenient choice for travel, as the grab handle can also be used to attach the bag to a suitcase, while the shoulder strap can be minimised to become a hip strap.
On the inside, there are three pockets for SD cards and another two for camera batteries and filters. But by moving the velcro divider, you can easily rearrange the inner compartments to fit different-sized lenses or other accessories. There is also a useful foldout section that can be used as a tray for changing lenses or SD cards.
Read our Nomatic McKinnon 5L slingbag review.
Best messenger bag
Best messenger bag for photographers: Billingham Hadley Pro 2020
Amateur Photographer verdict
Not just a stylish retro looking, but functional and practical too. The Billingham bags are made to last, however they also have a price to match- Built to last
- Classic and timeless style
- Relatively high price
- No sleeve for laptop or tablet
| Specifications | Billingham Hadley Pro 2020 |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 43 x 14 x 28cm (including top handle) |
| Weight | 2.4 lbs / 1.1 kg |
| Capacity | Holds a large DSLR, several lenses, plus flash |
| Laptop sleeve | No dedicated sleeve (but fits a 13" laptop) |
Every Billingham bag is instantly recognisable, and the Hadley Pro 2020 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 Hadley Pro 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.
Read our Billingham Hadley Pro 2020 review.
Best for compacts
Best compact rangefinder-style camera bag: Billingham TEN-16
Amateur Photographer verdict
The Billingham TEN-16 may just be the perfect high-quality bag for small rangefinder-style cameras like the Fujifilm X100VI. It’s beautifully designed and gives excellent protection. But it’s pricey.- Perfect fit for Fujifilm X100VI
- Beautifully designed and made
- Gives excellent protection
- Flexible carrying options
- Choice of attractive colours
- Limited space for accessories
- Expensive (but will last forever)
| Specifications | Billingham TEN-16 |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 5.9 x 2.7 x 2.5in / 15 x 7 x 6.5 cm |
| Weight | 0.73 lb / 0.33 kg |
| Capacity | Holds one compact camera |
The Billingham TEN-16 accepts flat-bodied rangefinder-style cameras up to about 14cm wide, 8cm tall, and 7cm deep, including the lens, and thanks to the flexible design, there’s a bit more wiggle room. Inside, there is one large main compartment and two slim pockets at the back. The smaller front one would fit a spare SD card, whereas the one behind can comfortably take a smaller smartphone. A neatly designed drawstring fabric closure helps keep your camera protected from the elements, and you can secure the cover via Billingham’s signature ‘clogball’ closure.
It comes with an adjustable and removable leather shoulder strap and has two loops at the back, which let you attach it to your belt or to certain Billingham bags as an end-pocket. It is available in Black/Black, Burgundy/Chocolate, Sage /Chocolate and Black/Tan colour combinations.
Read our Billingham TEN-16 review.
Best backpack insert
Best backpack insert: Vanguard VEO BIB F33
Amateur Photographer verdict
A budget solution if you want to use your existing backpack to carry your camera gear safely. Its own strap is a handy bonus too; just don’t rely on it for a long time- Fits a good amount of kit
- Well-made and generously padded
- Comes with plenty of dividers and pockets
- Useful carrying options
- No external pockets
- Uncomfortable to carry using its own strap
| Specifications | Vanguard VEO BIB F33 |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 12.4 x 7.6 x 12.4in / 31,5 × 19,5 × 31,5cm |
| Weight | 1.9 lbs. / 860g |
| Capacity | Holds a full-frame camera and up to 5 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | 11" Tablet |
The Vanguard VEO BIB F33 is a smart, affordable way to turn your everyday backpack into a camera bag. It fits a full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera and up to five lenses, with padded dividers that can be rearranged to accommodate various setups. It has a dual opening, one on the top and one on the front, to give quick access, while the inside pockets neatly store cards, batteries, and filters.
It’s ideal for beginners or anyone inheriting their first camera kit. A basic strap lets you carry it on its own as a shoulder bag or backpack in a pinch, though it’s best slipped into a rucksack for comfort, as the strap is not padded. If you like the idea of using your own backpack to carry a well-protected camera bag but need a different size, the wider VEO BIB range offers 11 variations with prices starting from as low as $35/£30.
Read our full Vanguard VEO BIB F33 review.
Budget shoulder bag insert
Best shoulder bag insert: Tenba BYOB 10
Amateur Photographer verdict
The Tenba BYOB 10 is perfect for when you want to turn an everyday bag into a camera bag, with a good level of protection. It’s well made and surprisingly capacious, and can work on its own if needed.- Well padded all round
- Plenty of dividers makes best use of space
- Lots of pockets
- Removable shoulder strap
- Not especially stylish when used standalone
- Full-frame users may do better with next size up
| Specifications | Tenba BYOB 10 |
|---|---|
| Size (external) | 10.5 x 8 x 4.5 in / 27 x 20 x 11 cm |
| Weight | 0.8lb / 0.36kg |
| Capacity | Holds 1 mirrorless or DSLR with 2-4 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | No |
The Tenba BYOB 10 is a versatile padded camera insert that turns your favourite shoulder bag into a camera bag. Compact yet spacious, it measures 27 x 20 x 11cm and can hold a camera body with 2–4 lenses plus accessories. With five adjustable dividers, multiple internal and external pockets, and durable water-repellent nylon construction, it keeps your gear neatly organised and well protected on the go.
Ideal for photographers who prefer using their own stylish bags, the BYOB 10 offers great flexibility and value at around £38. It can also double as a lightweight, standalone camera bag thanks to its detachable shoulder strap. It’s best suited for mirrorless or smaller DSLR kits, so full-frame users or those with larger lenses may prefer the next size up, the BYOB 13.
Read our full Tenba BYOB 10 review.
Specifications compared
| Specifications | Vanguard VEO Metro B25L | Wandrd PRVKE 21 V4 | Manfrotto Street Slim | Peak design Outdoor Backpack 25L | Tenba DNA 16 DSLR Backpack | Vanguard Veo Active 42M | Vanguard Alta Sky 42 | Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling Bag 5L | Billingham Hadley Pro 2020 | Billingham TEN-16 | Vanguard VEO BIB F33 | Tenba BYOB 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Backpack | Backpack (roll top) | Backpack | Backpack | Backpack | Backpack | Backpack | Sling bag | Shoulder bag | Small cross body bag | Bag insert | Bag insert |
| Size (external) | 30.5 x 22.5 x 46.5 cm | 17 x 11 x 5.5inch / 43.2 x 27.9 x 15.9 cm | 16.9 x 11.4 x 7.1inch / 43 x 29 x 18cm | 25.79 x 10.83 x 5.71inch / 48.5-66 x 28 x 15 cm | 15.7 x 12 x 5.5inch / 28 x 51 x 20 cm | 23.4 x 15 x 10.25inch / 27 x 19 x 44 cm | 10 x 9.4 x 19.9inch / 27 × 24 × 50,5cm | 55 x 11 x 7inch / 14 x 28 x 18cm | 43 x 14 x 28cm | 5.9 x 2.7 x 2.5inch / 15 x 7 x 6.5 cm | 12.4 x 7.6 x 12.4inch / 31,5 × 19,5 × 31,5cm | 10.5 x 8 x 4.5inch / 27 x 20 x 11cm |
| Weight | 4,2lb / 1.9kg | 2.98 lb / 1.3 kg | 1.8 lb / 0.8 kg | 2.54 lbs / 1.2 kg | 2.7lbs / 1.22kg | 4.32 lbs/ 1.96 kg | 4.1 lbs / 1.9 kg | 2.54 lbs / 0.59 kg | 2.4 lbs / 1.1 kg | 0.73 lb / 0.33 kg | 1.9 lbs / 0.86kg | 0.8lb / 0.36kg |
| Capacity | 1 camera 3-4 lenses | 1 camera 3-4 lenses | 1 camera 3-4 lenses | 1 camera 3-4 lenses | 1 camera 3-4 lenses | 1 camera 3-4 lenses | 1 camera 3-5 lenses | 1 camera 1-2 lenses | 1 camera, 3-4 lenses, flash | 1 compact camera | 1 camera 3-5 lenses | 1 camera 3-4 lenses |
| Laptop sleeve | 16 inch | 16 inch | 13 inch | 16 inch | 16-inch | 13-inch | 13-inch | N/A | No dedicated sleeve (but fits a 13" laptop) | N/A | 11-inch | N/A |
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 your 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.
Other considerations for camera bags
For extra items like a water bottle, a charging bank, or a notebook, 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 take the load off your 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.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
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.
Always position your camera with the lens facing down; these delicate structures are very susceptible to dust, and if you store them facing upward, any loose particles can make their way to your mirror or camera sensor.
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.
You can try dehumidifier bags or silica-gel packs 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.
Related reading:
How we test camera bags
Every camera bag reviewed by us is tested in a wide range of real-life conditions. During testing we consider not just the number of features, but how practical a bag is in real-world use.
We pack each bag to its maximum capacity. For backpacks like the Manfrotto Pro Light Multiloader Backpack, this means two camera bodies, various lenses of different sizes, a flash, tripod, and laptop too. For a compact camera bag like the Billingham TEN-16 we add an extra SD card, lens wipes and even fit a smartphone in too. This way we can assess pocket layout and versatility and how well they handle their intended load.
Ergonomics and comfort are key, whether you’re after a smaller sling bag for street photography or a large backpack to hike to your favourite landscape location. By wearing the fully loaded bag over extended periods, we evaluate how comfortable shoulder straps, back support and weight distribution feel, and how easy it is to use quick-access points for cameras and lenses as well as accessories like filters and more.
We also assess weather protection and security design features, such as whether the main compartments can be accessed only from the back or a hidden angle to enhance overall safety. We then take all these factors into account when giving our final conclusion and score. You’ll find the full breakdown of how each camera bag has performed in our full reviews.
Recent updates
- June 2026: Specifications comparison table added.
- April 2026: Although very useful and practical entries, we felt that there were too many backpacks on our list. We streamlined the selection by removing the Manfrotto Pro Light Multiloader Backpack M, Shimoda Urban Explore 20 and the Vanguard Veo City B46, replacing them with the Vanguard VEO Metro B25L, which is now our top choice as the best overall camera backpack for photographers.
- March 2026: Frequently asked questions and specs tables reorganised.
- February 2026: Re-ordered list by type of bag, with backpacks first.
- January 2026: The Vanguard Alta Sky 42 was added as best backpack for long lenses, replacing the Vanguard Veo Alta Sky 68
- December 2025: Billingham bag updated to Hadley Pro 2020, list tidied up to make it quicker to find the best bags.
- November 2025: Tenba BYOB 10 added as the best bag insert on a budget
- October 2025: Added Vanguard VEO F33 as the best budget camera bag for beginners, prices updated.
Text by Angela Nicholson, with contributions from Jon Stapley, Michael Topham and AP Staff.
Related articles:
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- Best rear-loading backpacks
- The best cameras for photography
- Best cameras for video, vlogging, and videography
- Best camera phones for photography
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