9 best camera bags for protecting your equipment

Weight: 2.2kg

Bag type: Backpack

Protection: Waterproof cover, all-weather cover

Available colours: 1

This is an excellent backpack that uses LowePro’s modular design philosophy and setup to make it well-suited to more rugged adventures. If you’re in need of something a little more hardwearing, but with the flexibility of a backpack, this is well worth taking a closer look at.

We found there was loads of space inside, with additionally enough room for a 15in laptop (rather than the 13in found on slightly smaller bags) and a number of super-padded customisation options. We even managed to fit a drone in alongside a camera, which is testament to its size and flexibility.

Weight: 3.9kg

Bag type: Hard case

Protection: Waterproof, dustproof, crushproof

Available colours: 4

A good hard case is vital if you’re travelling on flights, checking in luggage to the hold or using your photography gear in environments where it is susceptible to getting knocked around. We really like Peli products, and its 1535 air case is a lightweight option with retractable handles and wheels. It also qualifies for most airlines’s carry-on luggage dimensions so can be fitted in overhead lockers. Its watertight seal works well, and it has easily gripped handles and an automatic pressure release valve for breaking the seal after pressure changes when flying. One of the best hard cases around, we think it’s well worth the investment.

Weight: 1.2kg

Bag type: Backpack

Protection: All-weather cover

Available colours: 1

This is a compact option from LowePro, which is still intended to fit full-size DSLR and mirrorless cameras. We liked the pocket, which is a snug sleeve intended to fit up to a 13in laptop or tablet, and its padded waist belt and quick store two-stage access, which allows you to access the top and bottom halves of the bag independently, making it it comfortable to use and wear when out on shoots. LowePro is a well-known name in the camera world, and this is a good price for a quality bag.

Weight: 1.2kg

Bag type: Hybrid

Protection: Water repellent

Available colours: 1

One of the most versatile bags we tested, the advanced hybrid backpack can also act as a shoulder bag and a handle bag, meaning it’s suited to a wide range of use scenarios and situations. The included shoulder strap attaches and releases without any problems and the interior space of the bag is big enough for a DSLR or mirrorless camera and a couple of lenses. It has a smooth, smart appearance and is water repellent, and also ships with a waterproof cover if you’re caught out.

Weight: 4.3kg

Bag type: Roller bag

Protection: Padding and water-resistant material

Available colours: 2

Four-wheeled roller cases come into their own when carrying heavy items, and we liked this option as it can seamlessly transition into a backpack when rolling it along the ground is not possible. We’d definitely recommend this option for travellers and those photographers who usually spend a fair bit of time in the airports of the world. The dividers allow plenty of flexibility in the internal space, and the side tripod pocket means you can attach accessories to the bag, too. As with many Vanguard items, it feels well-built, is made out of quality material and adds a degree of flexibility to your luggage solution.

Weight: 539g

Bag type: Handle bag

Protection: N/A

Available colours: 1

We wanted to include a smaller option, and liked this flexible, customisable hold bag, which feels perfect for storing larger lenses that need their own protection, hard drives and other miscellaneous items. It would also be perfect for compact cameras and smaller setups. It has a detachable shoulder strap and feels weighty and nicely padded without being cumbersome or unwieldy when on the move.

Weight: 1.8kg

Bag type: Backpack

Protection: Ripstop fabric, waterproof material, taped seams, water-resistant zips

Available colours: 1

Marketed as a “go anywhere” bag, we were impressed with this carrier due to its adjustability, practicality and flexibility. As with most Stubble & Co bags, it feels like it’s made of tough stuff, with a durable and hard-wearing outer material complemented by sturdy straps, laptop pockets, well-thought-out card pockets and a clam-shell interior design for segmenting out your packing. We’d recommend this bag for packing a mix of camera equipment, spare clothes and travel items, and for that reason it may well be one of the most adaptable bags on the list.

Weight: 539g

Bag type: Handle bag

Protection: Waterproof fabric and liner

Available colours: 2

This is a classic style, and a workhouse of many on-the-go photographers who need a simple, easily accessible option for travel. These bags are well-respected in the industry, and are small, compact and lightweight while being able to house a deceptively large number of items. The organisation options are impressive and the interior space feels surprisingly effective, with dividers to separate out your gear. One word of warning, it’s best to pack items up as closely as possible, as with smaller setups things can rattle around a bit.

Weight: 1.1kg

Bag type: Shoulder bag

Protection: Waterproof fabric

Available colours: 9

We’ve had our Billingham for years, and that’s half the point. It may not be the most versatile, or largest, bag on this list, but it’s hard-wearing and offers up a timeless, classic style that’ll never go out of fashion. It looks flimsy but the fabric is actually entirely waterproof and the leather is real – it’s all handmade and it feels like it is, too. It’ll fit most decent camera setups at a push but space can sometimes feel a little limited and the front pockets are a bit too small to fit anything other than bits and bobs. If you want a bag that will last forever and stand the test of time, however, this is a great option.