The Best Camera Bag

The Best Camera Bag

An exhaustive study of several hours among about forty models was necessary to assert that the Lowepro Tahoe BP 150 is the best value for money for photo enthusiasts who make occasional shots. This backpack combines comfort and ergonomics. However, if you are a professional and carry a lot of equipment, we recommend the Peak Design Messenger V2 or the Peak Design Everyday Backpack, both stronger, more practical, more durable and more versatile.

Why do you trust us

The Selectos editorial team spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and comparing products to find those that offer the best value for money.

None of our articles is sponsored. We sometimes get a commission when you buy a product through our links, which allows us to finance our work while remaining totally impartial.

How did we make a choice?

After the purchase (often expensive) of a camera, it is necessary to ensure that you can transport it safely (with all its accessories) so that it remains impeccable for as long as possible. So buying a photo bag is the next logical step.

But how to choose it? Here are some important criteria to take into account:

Protection: the main goal is to optimize the life of your equipment by protecting it from shocks, bad weather and dust. The quality of the bag depends on its design. Ideally, it benefits from waterproof materials or at least comes with a protective cover. A double-closure system is to be preferred wherever possible. The quality of the sewing is also an aspect not to be neglected.

Size and compartments: It’s about what accessories you bring with your camera. If you are poorly equipped, two compartments are sufficient while a professional will need several modular compartments for his objectives, its tripod, its flash etc. A pocket that can accommodate one computer and another to put your personal belongings there is always good to take. The advantage of removable compartments is that the bag can turn into a travel bag. In addition, check the total capacity of the equipment.

Comfort: it is necessary to choose a model that is comfortable to wear. Choose a bag with padded back, breathable and airy panel, well-padded shoulder(s) and ventral strap if necessary. Beware of the weight of the vacuum bag, it will also affect the comfort when it is full. For ease of use, learn about easy access to your photographic equipment and integrated compartments.
Design: with this criterion, one evokes aesthetics but also ergonomics. For example, for hiking in nature, a backpack is the most suitable. For small rides and devices, turn to shoulder or belt photo bags. The latter are practical but do not allow to transport a lot of equipment. For travel by plane or car, choose the wheeled suitcase (which generally guarantees optimal safety against shocks and bad weather).

Compatibility: it is essential to take a compatible camera bag to avoid unnecessary expenses. Some can only be compatible with major brands like Canon.
We have researched each of these aspects for about forty models from which we have been able to extract about fifteen more interesting bags.

The final values of each piece of equipment were determined through expert or user comments, opinions and tests found at various English and French sites.

This is how we were able to elect the 6 camera bags with the best quality/price ratio of the moment.

Best bags for a cheap camera

Small prices sometimes reflect a lack of solidity, practicality and versatility within camera bags.

The two models found below are flexible, elegant and comfortable to wear. However, their use is reserved for amateurs with little equipment who practice their passion only occasionally.

Lowepro Tahoe BP 150: the best cheap

Available at a very affordable price, the Lowepro Tahoe BP 150 combines practicality, compactness, protection, and comfort with modular compartments that ensure versatile use for a less-equipped user.

Rather light (0.8 kilos) and of rather small size (27.5 x 21.7 x 40.3 cm), this backpack is pretty and not very imposing.

From the very beginning, it looks robust and has a waterproof coating, which is reassuring when you want to protect fragile devices. But a protective cover in case of difficult conditions is missing.

Despite its small size, its customizable and modular compartment is used to optimize space. Well padded, it provides good protection not only of your camera but also of its accessories (flash, lenses and others), to allow you to lead an active life without risking damage to your equipment.

In its large front pocket (24 x 2 x 26.5 cm), it is possible to slide other items like a tablet, for example. Small nets on the sides of this bag are provided to place objects that you want to easily reach, such as a water bottle.

It offers you the possibility to stay really active while having your device and the necessary at hand. An asset of size therefore for the moppers who like the photo!

It is possible to remove the bulkheads from the main compartment in order to use this bag to carry something else. A versatility that is appreciated at its true value!

Very comfortable, this bag has shoulder pads and a padded back that avoid being directly in contact with the photo material for maximum comfort. A handle is another option to carry the bag at arm’s length when necessary.

It just lacks a location for a tripod, often used in photos. However, it is possible to improvise it with the straps and net pockets on the side, if necessary, which is not necessarily ideal, but always better than nothing.

All this, as you will have understood, in fact, an excellent option for all who do not have a lot of equipment to transport, but still wants good protection.

Amazonbasics bag: the cheap alternative

Here is an entry-level model par excellence which, if not large, offers the necessary space for a photo lover. Light, comfortable and pretty, it ideally protects your business but reserves itself exclusively for photographic use.

This bag comes in two versions that are marked by different sizes: Medium (26 x 18 x 13 cm) and Large (31.8 x 23 x 18.5 cm). It weighs only 725 g, which puts it in the featherweight category.

If Amazon provides some impermeability, beware of its resistance, which is not entirely infallible in the face of dust, sand and especially, heavy rain.

The interior is adjustable by means of removable partitions. The same applies to straps which, from the outside, allow to attach a tripod. According to the users, this tie is a bit complicated to apprehend.

Several pouches are available including one on the front to accommodate your phone and other accessories. Another one admits a small tablet, like the Ipad Mini.

You will be able to drop off an SLR camera and up to three lenses at the same time. It is little, but enough for a little equipped amateur.

The interior is fastened via a zipper and the outer closure clips. This provides good protection but gives it more difficult access.

Level of comfort, you will not have to complain about its adjustable and padded shoulder strap that does not cause pain to your shoulder.

In fact, this bag owes its place as an alternative only to its lack of versatility and its difficult access. But for its price, it is difficult to deny its assets.

The best mid-range camera bags
In this section, we come across versatile models, which stand out thanks to more robust construction and better accessibility.

These bags are aimed at an audience with additional equipment and already familiar with the environment.

Manfrotto Rear Access: the best midrange

This shoulder bag from Manfrotto is very versatile, for a photo, computer and many others. It allows you to have everything at hand, and to organize optimally your objects, which are secure and easily found. Semi-professionals appreciate it all the more as its price has decreased since its release.

Its size is very correct since it has external dimensions of 32 x 19 x 45 cm. Supplied with a rain cover, it protects everything you need under all weather conditions.

At the photo level, this bag has enough room for an SLR with three lenses thanks to flexible separators that adapt best to your equipment.

The opening is made at the back for a very secure access (but not necessarily practical) and it even has slots for locks in order to block the closures to avoid the risk of flight.

An extendable side pocket offers a place of choice for a compact tripod, an indispensable tool for experienced photographers.

There is another compartment on the front that is large enough to fit your laptop (up to 13’’).

Finally, one last compartment on top ensures that your belongings find a location. A small 10’’ tablet can also sneak in easily!  As its name suggests, it promotes accessibility.

For the price, the bag is clearly well thought out and of quality. The small touch of design brings more elegance to this product which currently benefits from an interesting price/quality ratio. A safe investment, then!

GoPro Seeker V2: the mid-range alternative

Notice to Gopro enthusiasts, the Seeker V2 exists to make your job easier. Lightweight, durable and flexible, this backpack has hooks to place your camera. The brand, faithful to itself, comes with a model that blends well with its devices.

Proposed in black and blue tones, it is aesthetically pretty, fine and is not of the bulkiest.

With a very good capacity of 18 L (50.8 x 29.2 x 22.9 cm), it includes a padded computer compartment, space for your personal belongings, GoPro cameras and accessories.

The computer compartment can accommodate a 15” model or a 2 L water pocket (not included). Nice flexibility that is appreciated!

The customizable soft-lined compartment offers the possibility to carry up to five cameras, multiple batteries and microSD cards. Enough to make beautiful videos with everything at your fingertips.

Really designed for Gopro users, it can nevertheless also be used for classic cameras thanks to removable dividers. Tripods and poles, for their part, will also find their place.

With built-in chest and shoulder fasteners, you can easily capture immersive images. The removable chest mount allows you to capture images in subjective view while keeping your hands free, while the adjustable shoulder mount retains easy access to your GoPro, thus ready to capture the action.

Lightweight and weather-resistant, this bag features padded and breathable shoulder straps for a very comfortable carry under all circumstances.

Unfortunately, despite its high price, it does not have a protective cover and you will either have to buy one more or settle for its water-repellent material, which gives it resistance to small rains.

Visually, this bag is very eye-catching. This does not prevent it targeting a particular niche consumer of the brand, which is why we have placed it as an alternative.

The best premium camera bags
Beyond a certain budget, we have focused on superior quality demonstrating both durability and absolute strength, flawless ergonomics and excellent comfort.

Peak Design Messenger V2: the best upscale

Ultra popular on the market, the Design Messenger V2 makes the sunny days of Peak by displaying unfailing waterproofness, undeniable versatility and quick access to the elements inside. In addition, the profit of bags has an eco-responsible connotation.

Small and lightweight, this shoulder bag is available in two separate sizes: 13” and 15” for a capacity of 6 to 14 L. We will focus on the smallest size, which is: 12 x 38 x 27 cm. Note that it is available in three colours (Charcoal, Heritage Tan and ASH).

Semi-rigid, it incorporates a water-repellent fabric. Its bottom as well as its top zip closure are waterproof and you should not fear any rain.

Its main interior compartment is divided into three by two removable separators. There is of course a double compartment (32.5 x 23 x 2.5cm) for tablets and 13” computers. Finally, the presence of the side pockets is very practical.

It is possible to insert a compact tripod. Access to find your belongings is fast and you should know that they are protected by a secure magnetic closure.

To take it away, you have a low strap and a comfortable shoulder strap. The advantage is that thanks to its ergonomics, it turns into a versatile bag, useful for work or travel.

Finally, always know that Peak gives 1% of its turnover realized with the sale of these bags, to preserve the planet. An excellent brand initiative!

Peak Design Everyday Backpack: the high-end alternative

It is the alter ego of the Messenger V2 which, built according to the same line of conduct, presents many advantages in terms of solidity, flexibility, practicality and waterproofness. It is a perfect mixture between resistance and durability and for the blow, he is his brother.

The difference? This time it’s a backpack. Its dimensions are therefore different with an exterior of 51 x 33 x 59 cm for a maximum capacity of 30 L. Its materials ensure the same sealing as the previous one.

For convenience, you have a notepad compartment, a tablet compartment (33 x 22 x 1 cm) or computer compartment (up to 16”), and a side pocket. Everything is, of course, freely scalable, whether vertically or horizontally.

It displays universal compatibility and offers a multitude of storage. At this level, convenient side openings greatly facilitate access.

On the comfort side, it features padded shoulder straps and a belt that accentuates the support. The design is quite comparable to that of the shoulder bag.

In reality, it is difficult to distinguish it from the Messenger V2, and we do not recommend one more than the other. While offering an equivalent quality, they have a different ergonomics. We leave you the responsibility to decide according to your tastes and needs. Still, Peak is a formidable leader!

Honourable mentions

Amazonbasics backpack: lightweight, this backpack is made of polyester and nylon. The interior is padded and soft to effectively cushion shocks. The weight is perfectly distributed and all is pleasant to wear. A large number of accessories can be placed in the nine compartments, all separated by velcro-fastened partitions. Nevertheless, we notice that the walls are impractical to position, that there is no room for a computer and that it can absorb water in case of heavy rain.

Every case: with a rigid shell and waterproof liner against rain and shock, this polyester backpack features ergonomic shoulder straps and a breathable, padded support system. Highly designed, we appreciate its removable bag and versatility as it can also accommodate a computer up to 15.6” and is convertible into a travel backpack. We appreciate its ease of access and the quality of its finishes, but users emphasize its heavyweight and the insecurity of the back closures.

Lowepro Runner BP 450 AW II:  This nylon and polyester built backpack can be used as cabin baggage in aircraft. Its thick mesh back padding, shoulder pads, sturdy harness and removable belt make it comfortable. Its modular compartment allows accommodating all kinds of objects, from the tripod to the camera via the computer. Even if it is a bit heavy and imposing, its weight is well distributed. Nevertheless, it's quality/price ratio is slightly lower than that of its competitors.

Tenba Cooper 13 Slim: This shoulder bag is waterproof and abrasion-resistant. Its full-grain leather design and EVA foam offer optimal protection and undeniable comfort. Its shoulder cushion is removable and non-slip. The compartments are flexible. Easy to clean, it seduces by its discretion and versatility. But even if it is light and solid, its buyers are disappointed by the fragility of the inner seams.

In conclusion, which camera bag to choose?

The best price/quality ratio is offered by the Lowepro Tahoe BP 150. Its comfort, ergonomics and resistance satisfy amateurs who take part in occasional shoots with little equipment to take away or holidaymakers who wish to take several objectives with them.

If you are a more confirmed photographer without being a professional and you need to take more cameras with you, the Manfrotto Rear Access does very well. Everything is easy to access and you don’t waste time getting your instruments out. In addition, it is secure, well thought out and stylish.

Finally, the Peak Design Messenger V2 and the Peak Design Everyday Backpack both represent THE professional bag par excellence. Their durability is undeniable, while their waterproofness is infallible. Ergonomic, versatile and comfortable, they have everything you need to stand out.