The Best Camera Bags for Every Type of Travel Photographer in 2023

If you are a travel photographer, you know how important it is to have a reliable and comfortable camera bag that can protect your gear and fit your style. A good camera bag should be able to accommodate your camera body, lenses, accessories, and personal items, while also being durable, weather-resistant, and easy to carry.

But with so many options available on the market, how do you choose the best camera bag for travel? We will review some of the best camera bags for travel in 2023, based on different types, sizes, features, and budgets. We will also give you some tips on what to consider when buying a camera bag for travel.

What to Consider When Buying the Best Camera Bag for Travel?

When choosing the best camera bag for travel, you should consider the following factors:

• Size: The size of your camera bag should match the size of your gear and personal items. You don’t want to buy a bag that is too big or too small for your needs. A good rule of thumb is to measure your camera body and lenses and compare them with the dimensions of the bag. You should also check the weight and volume of the bag when empty and when full.
• Capacity: The capacity of your camera bag should reflect the amount of gear and personal items you want to carry. You don’t want to buy a bag that is too spacious or too cramped for your needs. A good rule of thumb is to list all the items you want to pack and check if they fit in the bag. You should also check the number and size of the compartments and pockets in the bag.
• Durability: The durability of your camera bag should withstand the wear and tear of travel. You don’t want to buy a bag that is too flimsy or too rigid for your needs. A good rule of thumb is to check the material, stitching, zippers, buckles, and straps of the bag. You should also check the warranty and reviews of the bag.
• Modularity: The modularity of your camera bag should allow you to customize and organize your gear and personal items. You don’t want to buy a bag that is too fixed or too loose for your needs. A good rule of thumb is to check the dividers, inserts, pouches, and accessories of the bag. You should also check the compatibility and versatility of the bag.
• Style: The style of your camera bag should suit your taste and personality. You don’t want to buy a bag that is too bland or too flashy for your needs. A good rule of thumb is to check the color, shape, design, and brand of the bag. You should also check the aesthetics and functionality of the bag.

How and Where We Tested To Find The Best Camera Bags:

To find the best camera bags for travel, we tested various models from different brands and types. We evaluated them based on their size, capacity, durability, modularity, style, and price. We also considered their features, pros, cons, ratings, reviews, and feedback from other users.

We tested the camera bags in various scenarios and locations, such as urban, rural, indoor, outdoor, sunny, rainy, and snowy. We also simulated different travel situations, such as walking, biking, driving, flying, and hiking. We checked how the camera bags performed in terms of comfort, convenience, accessibility, security, and protection.

[Read: Travel & Tourism Industry]

Based on our testing and research, we selected the best camera bags for travel in 2023 for each category and type. We also provided some alternatives and honorable mentions for each category and type. We hope that this article will help you find the best camera bag for travel that meets your needs and expectations.

Types of Camera Bags for Travel

There are different types of camera bags for travel, such as messenger bags, backpacks, belt bags, and holster-style bags. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences and needs.

Messenger Bags

Messenger bags are shoulder bags that have a flap cover and a single strap that goes across your chest. They are usually stylish and discreet, making them ideal for urban photography and blending in with the crowd. They also offer quick access to your camera and gear without having to take off the bag.

However, messenger bags can also be uncomfortable and unbalanced if you carry too much weight or walk for long distances. They can also be less secure than other types of bags, as they can be easily opened or snatched by thieves.

Some of the best messenger camera bags for travel are:

• Kodiak Messenger Bag: This is a rugged and versatile messenger bag that can fit a DSLR or mirrorless camera with 2-3 lenses, a laptop up to 15 inches, and other accessories. It has a water-resistant waxed canvas exterior, a padded interior with customizable dividers, a magnetic closure system, and multiple pockets and compartments. It also comes with a removable rain cover and a shoulder pad for extra comfort.
• Boundary Supply Prima-System: This is a modular and expandable messenger bag that can transform into a backpack or a sling bag. It can fit a DSLR or mirrorless camera with 2-3 lenses, a laptop up to 15 inches, a tablet up to 13 inches, and other essentials. It has a durable nylon exterior, a magnetic buckle system, a removable camera insert, and multiple access points. It also comes with a waterproof dry bag and a lifetime warranty.

[Buy These Messenger Bags on Amazon]

Backpacks

Backpacks are the most common type of camera bags for travel, as they offer the most space and comfort for carrying your gear and personal items. They usually have two shoulder straps, a padded back panel, a waist belt, and multiple compartments and pockets. They are great for hiking, camping, or any outdoor adventure where you need to carry more stuff.

However, backpacks can also be bulky and heavy if you pack too much or choose the wrong size. They can also be less convenient than other types of bags when you need to access your camera quickly or go through airport security.

Some of the best backpack camera bags for travel are:

• WANDRD PRVKE 31: This is our overall best travel camera bag pick. It is a stylish and functional backpack that can fit a DSLR or mirrorless camera with 4-6 lenses, a laptop up to 16 inches, a tablet up to 12 inches, and other essentials. It has a water-resistant tarpaulin exterior, a roll-top design that expands from 31L to 36L, a side access panel, a removable camera cube, and multiple pockets and features. It also comes with a rain cover, a tripod holder, and a lifetime warranty.
• Nomatic Mckinnon 35L Camera Bag: This is our runner-up pick for the best travel camera bag. It is a sleek and versatile backpack that can fit a DSLR or mirrorless camera with 4-6 lenses, a laptop up to 16 inches, a tablet up to 12 inches, and other essentials. It has a water-resistant nylon exterior, a clamshell opening that allows full access to the main compartment, a removable camera insert, and multiple pockets and features. It also comes with a rain cover, a tripod holder, and a lifetime warranty.

[Buy here: Nomatic Mckinnon 35 L Camera Bag]

Belt Bags

Belt bags are small pouches that attach to your waist belt or strap around your hips. They are ideal for minimalist photographers who only need to carry their camera body and one or two lenses. They offer easy access to your gear without having to take off the bag or reach behind your back.

However, belt bags can also be limiting and uncomfortable if you need to carry more gear or walk for long distances. They can also be less discreet than other types of bags, as they draw attention to your waist area.

Some of the best belt camera bags for travel are:

• Domke F-5XA: This is a simple and compact belt bag that can fit a DSLR or mirrorless camera with one or two lenses and some accessories. It has a water-resistant cotton canvas exterior, a padded interior with removable dividers, a zipper closure, and two front pockets. It can also be used as a shoulder bag or a cross-body bag with the included strap.
• HEX Back Loader DSLR Camera Bag: This is a stylish and modern belt bag that can fit a DSLR or mirrorless camera with one or two lenses and some accessories. It has a water-resistant nylon exterior, a fleece-lined interior with customizable dividers, a zipper closure, and a front pocket. It can also be used as a sling bag or a cross-body bag with the included strap.

[Buy Here: Domke Camera Bags]

Holster-Style Bags

Holster-style bags are designed to hold your camera with the lens attached and ready to shoot. They are perfect for photographers who want to have their camera always at hand and don’t need to carry any extra gear. They usually have a single strap that goes over your shoulder or across your chest, and a top flap that covers your camera.

However, holster-style bags can also be restrictive and risky if you want to change lenses or carry more gear. They can also be less protective than other types of bags, as they expose your camera to dust, moisture, and bumps.

Some of the best holster-style camera bags for travel are:

• Lowepro Toploader Zoom 50 AW II: This is a durable and lightweight holster-style bag that can fit a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a zoom lens up to 17cm long and some accessories. It has a water-resistant polyester exterior, a padded interior with an adjustable divider, a zipper closure, and a front pocket. It also comes with a rain cover, a shoulder strap, and a belt loop.
• Echo Niner Low Profile Covert: This is a sleek and discreet holster-style bag that can fit a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a prime lens up to 10cm long and some accessories. It has a water-resistant nylon exterior, a soft interior with a magnetic closure, and a rear pocket. It also comes with a shoulder strap, a belt loop, and a lifetime warranty.

FAQ about the Best Camera Bag

Here are some frequently asked questions about the best camera bag for travel:

Q: How do I clean my camera bag?

A: To clean your camera bag, you should follow the instructions from the manufacturer or the label on the bag. Generally, you should avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or hot water on your camera bag. You should also avoid machine washing or drying your camera bag. Instead, you should use a soft cloth, mild soap, and cold water to gently wipe or spot clean your camera bag. You should also air dry your camera bag in a shaded area.

Q: How do I pack my camera bag?

A: To pack your camera bag, you should follow these steps:

1. Empty your camera bag and remove any unnecessary items.
2. Arrange your gear and personal items in order of priority and size.
3. Place your camera body and lenses in the main compartment of your camera bag, using the dividers or inserts to separate and secure them.
4. Place your accessories, such as batteries, memory cards, filters, cables, etc., in the pockets or pouches of your camera bag.
5. Place your laptop, tablet, documents, books, etc., in the laptop or tablet sleeve of your camera bag.
6. Place your clothes, toiletries, snacks, water bottle, etc., in the remaining space of your camera bag.
7. Close and zip up your camera bag and check if it is comfortable and balanced to carry.

Q: How do I protect my camera bag from theft?

A: To protect your camera bag from theft, you should follow these tips:

1. Choose a camera bag that has a discreet and inconspicuous design that does not scream “expensive gear inside”.
2. Choose a camera bag that has a lockable zipper or a combination lock that prevents unauthorized access to your gear.
3. Choose a camera bag that has a slash-resistant material or a wire mesh that prevents cutting or tearing of your bag.
4. Choose a camera bag that has a RFID-blocking pocket or a RFID-blocking sleeve that prevents electronic scanning of your cards or documents.
5. Keep your camera bag close to you at all times and never leave it unattended or out of sight.
6. Use a strap or a carabiner to attach your camera bag to a fixed object or to yourself when sitting or resting.
7. Use a luggage tag or a label to identify your camera bag and provide your contact information in case of loss.

Conclusion:

Finding the best camera bag for travel can be challenging but rewarding. A good camera bag can make your travel photography experience more enjoyable and successful. A bad camera bag can ruin your travel photography experience and damage your gear.

We hope that this article has helped you find the best camera bag for travel that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you are looking for a messenger bag, a backpack, a belt bag, or a holster-style bag, we have reviewed some of the best options available on the market.

Remember to consider the size, capacity, durability, modularity, style, and price of your camera bag before buying it. Also, remember to clean, pack, and protect your camera bag properly.

Happy travels and happy shooting! 📸