Best DSLR Camera Bags Reviewed & Rated for Quality

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
 BAGSMART Compact Camera Shoulder Bag
Test Winner: BAGSMART Compact Camera Shoulder Bag
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Virtually everyone loves quality images captured using a high-quality camera. Whether you are a professional photographer or do photography for fun, you would appreciate a good camera with high-quality lenses.
High-quality lenses make it even more important to carry it in a sturdy bag that will ensure it remains protected from scratches and accidental falls. The bag should also feature several padded interior compartments for easy organization and extra protection.

Taking good care of your DSLR camera ensures it lasts long enough to serve all of your photography needs without thinking about replacement shortly. With so many camera designs on the market, manufacturers of camera bags have been forced to improve their models to match those of modern-day cameras constantly. Without wasting much time, below are the best camera bags reviewed for quality.

Standout Picks

 Canon 2400 SLR Gadget Bag
Those who love Canon products will be well-satisfied with the Canon 2400 SLR Gadget Bag. It is excellent for those who don’t like Canon products also. It is a shoulder strap bag that is easy to get off and on. The size of the bag makes gear accessible. Dividers let you move items around inside.
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 BAGSMART Compact Camera Shoulder Bag
The BAGSMART Compact Camera Shoulder Bag allows customizing spaces for a mirrorless camera or small DSLR gear. It is made of water-repellant and rugged polyester. The bag has padded shoulder straps.
Amazon Link
$27.99
 AmazonBasics Large
This large bag is great for carrying your digital camera and lenses or any other camera accessories that you may wish to bring on your photography mission. The removable interior allows you to adjust it to fit the body of virtually any DSLR camera, including up to 3 camera lenses as well as other camera accessories you may be having.
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 Kattee Leather
This leather product allows you to bring your dear DSLR camera with you whenever you are going on outdoor trips to the wild. This will give your camera equipment and accessories all the protection needed to ensure they are safe. If you are a digital photojournalist or sports and news photographer, then this canvas shoulder bag is for you.
Amazon Link
 eCostConnection Medium
This medium carry bag features soft padding for your camera equipment. Whether you have a Canon, Nikon, or Sony camera, you can be sure that your equipment will be safe and protected once you pack it inside here. The sturdy construction makes it durable and easy to carry to your travel destination for your photo-shoot event.
Amazon Link
$13.99
 USA Gear Digital
This quality construction camera bag is another one of USA Gear’s great innovation works. You can quickly grab your camera through the side door while ensuring the rest of the equipment and accessories remain intact inside the bag so that you will never miss a shot. Its durability is based on the heavy-duty buckles, metal zippers, and reinforced handles.
Amazon Link
$69.99
 Vanguard CSC
This backpack is designed to fit your DSLR camera with lens attached. You can also bring 2 extra lenses, a 13-inch laptop, a flash drive and a couple of other accessories to your travel adventure. The padded interior will ensure that your equipment and other personal effects are safely protected during the whole journey. You will enjoy your leisure time or vacation without distraction.
Amazon Link
$150.00
 DSLR BBK 3
This vintage-design DSLR/ SLR camera messenger bag is the true meaning of durability. Not only is it guaranteed to last longer than most other camera bags on the market, but the bag will all offer maximum protection even from water that might damage your equipment, thanks to its waterproof functionality. You never have to worry about the safety of your camera when it rains.
Amazon Link
 Altura Sling
Altura has designed yet another sling backpack suitable for virtually any DLSR camera. Its lightweight makes it the perfect travel companion, with enough room for keeping your accessories and accessing them easily when needed. The padded divider compartments are highly customizable to fit your camera, lenses, as well as other accessories you might need to carry to your next trip to the world of adventure.
Amazon Link
$150.00
 Altura Photo Medium
This camera bag is both lightweight and portable. It is suitable for travel because of its compact nature, allowing you on-the-go access to your expensive camera for the ultimate photography session. It will comfortably store your items and protect virtually any DSLR camera, thanks to its versatile case. Whether you have a hybrid superzoom or mirrorless camera and its essentials, this is your ideal storage solution.
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Criteria Used for Evaluation

Materials

Material & Construction

Construction is one of the most important things to consider when shopping for your next camera bag. Whether you plan to use the camera bag for jungle trekking, hiking, or taking a stroll through the city, it is essential to consider the material used to make the bag. If you are an everyday photographer, the bag should be sturdy enough to withstand the rigor of day-to-day use.

The material should match the toughness required to withstand the harsh elements of the environment and outdoor activities. While it should be made of sturdy material to resist wear and tear, it should also be breathable to ensure you do not sweat so much that you feel uncomfortable carrying the material.

If you are a photographer residing in a wet city frequented by rains, then you should opt for waterproof material to keep out all the water and protect your equipment from water damage. You may also consider bags with total coverage cover to ensure you have less stress when there is a downpour.

Water damage potential makes it even more important to consider one with sealed zips to prevent water from seeping into the camera bag, as being outdoor exposes you and your equipment to various elements of weather.

Weight

Weight

The material used determines the bag’s weight. If you like carrying lightweight, then you should probably consider bags made of light material. Thick, waxed leather or canvas could significantly add to the overall weight of the bag and package.

While it might not become immediately apparent how much your package weighs, the weight of the bag when empty and the weight of the equipment and accessories you are carrying will make the bag so heavy that people with back issues will worsen their condition. It is advisable to avoid heavy material if you tend to experience back problems.

The material tends to affect the durability of the camera bag as well. In this regard, camera bags made from animals skin or leather material often outlast all of the other materials regarding strength. If leather is stitched together rather than glued, it is more likely to last longer.

Size

Size

Contrary to popular belief, bigger is never always better. The same is holds in the case for camera bags. Most people want bigger bags because they can be able to pack most things and move with them on the go. They can also have access to whatever they need while exploring the world of natural beauty.

However, are you ready to handle the weight that comes with size? Besides the weight, another issue of concern is the number of compartments and pockets or pouches. The more pouches and pockets there are, the better.

If you purchase a bag that has several compartments, you can have a place to store your camera equipment, lenses, laptop, tablet, phone, memory cards, flash drives, and any other accessories you may need during your field trip or crazy adventure.

However, all this depends on you as a person and the nature of the photography task you intend to undertake. If you are a professional photographer, then you should go for a large bag with several compartments, pouches, and pockets, as you are probably going to need more than just camera equipment on your photography assignment.

On the other hand, if you are a seasoned traveler who loves to document his or her journey and capture the beauty of nature, then you probably already know the importance of traveling light. You need to pack light and distinguish between what you want and what you will need during your field trip. In that case, you should probably choose a smaller, lighter camera bag that can accommodate your camera equipment, lenses and a few accessories you might need to make your travel complete.

Comfort

Comfort and Fit

Photography can be a tiring task, especially if you are going to be doing it for a significant part of the day. If you need to walk around with your gear all day long, then you need to feel comfortable while at it. If your camera bag does not feel comfortable to carry around, then you probably won’t be doing it for longer.

On the other hand, if you are an experienced photographer, then you know the importance of having multiple camera bags to suit different occasions. You can alternate between a messenger bag, a shoulder bag, and a backpack. The choice depends on you as an individual, as people prefer to carry different types of backs as a matter of personal preference.

The backpack option is excellent for carrying several items. With two padded straps, it will be able to distribute the heavyweight evenly to allow you to carry the package more easily. You will feel comfortable carrying the bag all day long.

Also, backpacks are a lot more spacious than messenger bags. The only challenge comes in when you have to take it off your back to gain access to your camera equipment and other accessories. Unlike messenger bags which you can flip the top cover over and remove your camera equipment and lenses, there is no shortcut with the backpack.

If you keep changing the lenses and accessing your accessories continuously, then this option could be a little inconvenient. You probably need the messenger bag for quick and easy access to your equipment and other items.

The messenger bag is ideal for shooters who are quick and continuously change the lenses. If you will need to be accessing your bag several times as you take shots, then this option is probably good for you. All you have to do is swing the bag over, flip the top and remove your gear. Once you are done, you can then return the cover and swing it back.

While this can be convenient when keeping and retrieving cameras, it can feel uncomfortable if the photographer has to spend a major part of the day walking around carrying the bag and taking photos. Therefore, it is imperative to know what you will be carrying as well as how frequently you’ll need to use the items inside the camera bag.

Style

Presentability

While this might not be important as far as the functionality of the bag is concerned, appearance does appeal to personal taste and preference. Sometimes the appearance can impact the safety of the carrier. If you are going to carry the camera in a risky area frequented by gangs and thieves, then you are better off carrying a bag that conceals what is inside.

When someone looks at your bag, it should not immediately become apparent that you are carrying a DSLR/ SLR camera in an expensive-looking camera bag. Flashy and fancy bags tend to attract thieves everywhere you go.

Experienced photographers know the importance of concealing your items when going to an unfamiliar place. They ensure that the camera bag does not look appealing to potential muggers. If a mugger gets the idea that the bag contains thousands of dollars’ worth of expensive gear or state-of-the-art equipment, then you risk losing your camera equipment, camera bag and all the accessories inside. You could also lose your important pieces of works or pictures you have already taken. Sometimes, looking fancy in an unfriendly neighborhood can be costly.

Top 10 Picks

1. Canon 2400 SLR Gadget Bag

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Canon 2400 SLR Gadget Bag
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Those who love Canon products will be well-satisfied with the Canon 2400 SLR Gadget Bag. It is excellent for those who don’t like Canon products also. It is a shoulder strap bag that is easy to get off and on. The size of the bag makes gear accessible. Dividers let you move items around inside.

Features

There are two quick-release buckles on the front flap. The flap covers the entire bag. Five movable, padded dividers on the inside of the bag can be configured to meet the gear needs. There are two convenient buckled tripod loops on the underside of the bag. The smooth back of the bag minimizes wear and tear, and friction caused when the bag bounces against the body.

Two rubber feet protect the bag from damage when placed on the ground. The Canon logo is displayed on the front. An overlapping strap that is touch fastened connects two top grab handles. There is also an adjustable, removable shoulder strap that is ergonomically curved and non-slip.

Pockets

A large front pocket with a zipper can hold accessories and small items. Inside there are two additional slash pockets for carrying such things as a battery, a lens cloth, and memory cards. The two zippered accessory side pockets are meant for filters and other items similar in size. The bag has a mesh pocket on the inside of the lid.

Cost and Value

The Gadget Bag 2400 is a Cordura bag that is rated to hold a lens attached Canon DSLR. It is designed to carry the DSLR camera having a standard lens, accessories, and a tripod. The bag is compatible with many cameras and lens kits. It is reasonably priced.

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2. BAGSMART Compact Camera Shoulder Bag

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$27.99
 BAGSMART Compact Camera Shoulder Bag
Amazon Link

The BAGSMART Compact Camera Shoulder Bag allows customizing spaces for a mirrorless camera or small DSLR gear. It is made of water-repellant and rugged polyester. The bag has padded shoulder straps.

Features

There is room to store a DSLR, one or two exchange lenses, water bottle and accessories like a charger, battery, cables, and memory cards. Features of the bag include a solid, padded handle.

A trolley strap attaches to a suitcase while traveling. The adjustable, padded shoulder strap and padded grip handle provide versatility and comfort. The bag is compatible with Nikon, Canon, Sony, and Olympus cameras.

Protective Design

The bag offers superior protection. The design has extra cushion to protect the camera. It has an opening style that protects the camera from falling. A reversed zipper design prevents water from getting into the bag.

Concealed on the back is a rain cover for unexpected weather. The bottom is reinforced with thick vinyl to ensure long-lasting use and provide extra protection. The three padded dividers have velcro that makes putting and fixing portable accessories easy. They protect the equipment from shock and bumps.

Cost and Value

There are three main compartments and six mesh pockets. There are so many pockets that often, some go unused. Two side pockets hold water bottles. A front zipper pocket holds the camera and accessories such as memory cards, a battery, and cables. The back pocket holds valuables like wallets, iPhones, earphones, and keys.

The rain cover is an unexpected perk. There is a small piece of velcro on the luggage strap that can be attached to the handle to keep rolling luggage in place. The bag is available in three colors - grey, heather blue, and heather red. The bag is priced in line with other camera bags.

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$27.99

3. AmazonBasics Large

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 AmazonBasics Large
Amazon Link

This large bag is great for carrying your digital camera and lenses or any other camera accessories that you may wish to bring on your photography mission. The removable interior allows you to adjust it to fit the body of virtually any DSLR camera, including up to 3 camera lenses as well as other camera accessories you may be having.

Tablet Compartment

There is no need to leave your tablet at home on your way to the wild and yet there is plenty of room left for it. The bag features a padded slot for tablet devices.

Comfort

The AmazonBasics bag provides comfort on the go using its adjustable, extra-padded, shoulder straps. It would still feel comfortable even when fully loaded with your gear.

Cost and Value

The bag provides enough space for camera and accessories, including your tablet gadget, which will enjoy a padded compartment to protect it against damage caused by impact. The bag is pocket-friendly too.

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4. Kattee Leather

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Kattee Leather
Amazon Link

This leather product allows you to bring your dear DSLR camera with you whenever you are going on outdoor trips to the wild. This will give your camera equipment and accessories all the protection needed to ensure they are safe. If you are a digital photojournalist or sports and news photographer, then this canvas shoulder bag is for you.

Durable Double Bags

This retro and classic style SLR camera bag is durable with a cotton liner to deliver the ultimate comfort your camera needs. It will outlast most bags on the market.

Flexible Inner Liner

With two adjustable and fully padded dividers, the bag features a flexible and highly customizable interior with a built-in microfiber cloth to help provide the protection your camera’s LCD screen needs, as nicks and scratches could ruin your shot.

Cost and Value

The interior of the camera bag is very soft and offers your equipment the protection it needs against scratches, all for a small price of a few dollars.

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5. eCostConnection Medium

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$13.99
 eCostConnection Medium
Amazon Link

This medium carry bag features soft padding for your camera equipment. Whether you have a Canon, Nikon, or Sony camera, you can be sure that your equipment will be safe and protected once you pack it inside here. The sturdy construction makes it durable and easy to carry to your travel destination for your photo-shoot event.

Sturdy Construction

This is medium in size and features sturdy construction for durability and ease of movement. You can easily pack the essentials on the go.

Comfortable Carrying Handle

The bag has compact compartments to hold your camera equipment, with a carrying handle to make it easy to move around the forest while documenting the beauty of nature.

Cost and Value

The bag has 2 side pockets to hold as many accessories as the space will allow. The removable shoulder strap provides great convenience. In addition, it is affordable.

Amazon Link
$13.99

6. USA Gear Digital

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$69.99
 USA Gear Digital
Amazon Link

This quality construction camera bag is another one of USA Gear’s great innovation works. You can quickly grab your camera through the side door while ensuring the rest of the equipment and accessories remain intact inside the bag so that you will never miss a shot. Its durability is based on the heavy-duty buckles, metal zippers, and reinforced handles.

Room for Everything

Eight pockets are designed into the bag to hold your camera, batteries, adapters, flash drives, memory cards and other equipment you might find necessary. The space is large enough to keep all the gear yet the bag remains lightweight and portable.

Padded Protection

The laptop slot is fully padded and zipped for superior protection. Accidental bumps would not harm your laptop or cause scratches to your valuable camera equipment.

Cost and Value

The bag is fully padded for complete protection from accidental bumps that may cause scratches to your pieces of equipment, and the bag is spacious and has room for everything. It is affordable too.

Amazon Link
$69.99

7. Vanguard CSC

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$150.00
 Vanguard CSC
Amazon Link

This backpack is designed to fit your DSLR camera with lens attached. You can also bring 2 extra lenses, a 13-inch laptop, a flash drive and a couple of other accessories to your travel adventure. The padded interior will ensure that your equipment and other personal effects are safely protected during the whole journey. You will enjoy your leisure time or vacation without distraction.

Padded Insert

This model comes with a thick, padded insert located in the lower compartments to hold your camera equipment with lens attached. Your camera will be fully protected from unexpected impact.

Complete Coverage Rain Cover

This product comes with a total coverage rain cover to help protect it and its contents from rain. Your equipment and accessories will stay dry in the event that there is a heavy downpour.

Cost and Value

With a padded 13” laptop compartment and padded insert for the camera, the bag offers the ultimate protection your items need. The rain cover will keep the water away. In addition, the price is quite modest but higher than most bags.

Amazon Link
$150.00

8. DSLR BBK 3

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 DSLR BBK 3
Amazon Link

This vintage-design DSLR/ SLR camera messenger bag is the true meaning of durability. Not only is it guaranteed to last longer than most other camera bags on the market, but the bag will all offer maximum protection even from water that might damage your equipment, thanks to its waterproof functionality. You never have to worry about the safety of your camera when it rains.

Waterproof

This product is made of waterproof material to make you worry less about the rain and focus more on the wild experience. You can be sure that your equipment will be kept from moisture.

Various Compartments

This DSLR/ SLR camera holder is designed with several compartments to hold the camera, 2 lenses, a tablet, phone, and chargers. You can even bring your flash drives and memory cards with you.

Cost and Value

The product's waterproof design ensures you never have to worry about rainfall. With several compartments to carry accessories at a humble price of a few dollars, this is the real deal.

Amazon Link

9. Altura Sling

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$150.00
 Altura Sling
Amazon Link

Altura has designed yet another sling backpack suitable for virtually any DLSR camera. Its lightweight makes it the perfect travel companion, with enough room for keeping your accessories and accessing them easily when needed. The padded divider compartments are highly customizable to fit your camera, lenses, as well as other accessories you might need to carry to your next trip to the world of adventure.

Customizable Divider Walls

The bag features a highly customizable interior to accommodate your camera equipment no matter the shape or size. You can pack every accessory or item in its own place.

Mesh Pockets

This sling backpack also features mesh pockets to make it easy to carry camera accessories or other items to your adventure.

Cost and Value

With a customizable and padded interior designed to make it easy to store virtually any DSLR camera equipment, you can be sure that your money will be invested in the right product.

Amazon Link
$150.00

10. Altura Photo Medium

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Altura Photo Medium
Amazon Link

This camera bag is both lightweight and portable. It is suitable for travel because of its compact nature, allowing you on-the-go access to your expensive camera for the ultimate photography session. It will comfortably store your items and protect virtually any DSLR camera, thanks to its versatile case. Whether you have a hybrid superzoom or mirrorless camera and its essentials, this is your ideal storage solution.

Durable Polyester Material

Crafted from a highly durable polyester material, the bag is definitely long-lasting. The carry handle is also fitted with reinforced padding to make it durable and comfortable to carry.

Velcro Insert

Velcro-fastened padded insert is for keeping your camera and lens separate. You can also keep any other small camera accessories separately.

Cost and Value

Crafted from polyester material to ensure the bag will serve you for longer, and Velcro-fastened padded insert for keeping camera accessories separate, this bag gives peace of mind. It is also pocket-friendly.

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