Finding the Right Bag for Your Gear
As a photographer, choosing the perfect mirrorless camera bag for travel can be a challenge. Many of us have closets filled with bags that seemed like the best option at first but turned out to be lacking in one way or another. Over time, I’ve realized that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for carrying mirrorless cameras, lenses, and gear comfortably
while keeping them protected. Whether you’re hiking with champagne and water, flying with your photo gear, or simply exploring the streets of New York City, you need a backpack that fits under your seat, offers a waist strap with loops, and allows you to hang your camera when necessary. The pain of constantly searching for the right bag is real, but after years of experience, I’ve learned what truly matters when picking the best travel camera bag.
Camera Backpack or Sling Bag for Travel
Picking the right bag for travel depends on your camera setup, gear, and how you prefer carrying it. A sling bag is lightweight, accessible, and great for quick shoots, especially in city shooting, but a larger, dedicated backpack provides extra space, better organization, and can protect your equipment while changing gear on the go.
If you need to fit multiple bodies and lenses, a backpack is a better option, especially for longer trips, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits. The Peak Design sling bag is ideal for urban photographers, while the LowePro backpack works well for adventure travelers.
A make-shift ledge on a backpack helps with swaps, and if you want to avoid a bulky setup, a minimal approach with a sling is ideal, but choosing the right best photography backpacks ensures efficiency for your needs.
Features That Matter in a Camera Bag
Many enthusiasts struggle with finding the right balance between a lightweight design and sufficient storage space. A bag-free approach might work for some, but if you’re carrying multiple cameras, lenses, and accessories, a messenger bag, sling, or backpack is often necessary.
WIRED Gear Team has tested over 80 camera bags, stuffing them with photo equipment, from compact cameras to mirrorless setups, ensuring that each bag is convenient and protected. Personally, I’ve spent hours at B&H checking different options, and while no bag is truly perfect,
there are some that come close. Whether you need a tech pouch from Peak Design, a sling from Moment, or memory cases from Lowepro and Wandrd, having the right setup ensures you can travel without worry. The right gear keeps everything secure, safe,
and easy to carry, so you can focus on capturing unforgettable moments instead of struggling with a poorly designed bag.
What to look for in a camera bag for travel
When choosing a camera bag for travel, it’s important to find a balance between comfort, size, and safety. A good bag should not be too bulky or awkward to carry for extended travel days, especially for an active traveller exploring different locations. A lightweight option with a low profile is a great choice, as it doesn’t attract unnecessary attention. If you’re always on the move, a bag that fits comfortably on your back and doesn’t feel too big or small is ideal. Manufacturers use smart padding and dividers to keep gear safe while reducing bouncing inside.
A well-designed camera bag should have space for at least two or three lenses, especially if you use mirrorless cameras like the Sony A6000 or A5000. Whether you carry a wide-angle lens like the Rokinon 12mm, a mid-prime 35mm, or a telephoto 55-210 with a teleconverter, the bag should have room for these essentials.
Don’t forget other must-haves like cards, batteries, a passport, and a phone. Thankfully, some bags include smart compartments that easily store everything you need. A big concern for many photographers is the horror of arriving at their destination to find their gear broken—always check if your bag can fit under an airplane seat or if it must go in the expensive checked luggage.
Security is another great concern when carrying a DSLR or mirrorless camera on your adventure. A bag with thick straps, secure zippers, and a discrete design can help protect against pickpocket attempts. Some bags have cut-resistant materials to prevent thieves from slashing them open.
Proper padding helps absorb abuse, keeping delicate equipment from getting damaged. Many photographers rely on Reddit threads, subreddit discussions, YouTube videos, and forum posts for reviews on different models.
The advantages of choosing the perfect camera bag are clear—it should be a comfortable, small package that easily balances power, style, and functionality for an effortless quest to capture photos while traveling.
My Mirrorless Camera Bag – The Peak Design Everyday Sling
The Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L is the best camera sling bag I’ve used for travel. Before purchasing, I researched different options on Amazon, ensuring it checked all the boxes for my needs. This version is conveniently sized, lightweight, and compact,
yet it performs exceptionally well in carrying gear without feeling bulky. The adjustable strap allows the bag to hug my body tightly, making it comfortable to carry for extended periods, whether I’m walking, cycling, or running. When I need extra stability, I can tighten the strap to prevent bouncing while moving. The shape makes it easy to take a quick step back to access my camera without disrupting my workflow.
For storage, this deceptively large bag fits my camera body with a telephoto lens and teleconverter attached, plus space for other lenses and a tripod like the Ultrapod. The compression straps provide expansion when necessary and allow me to compress the package when empty, helping it meet airline guidelines and fit under an airplane seat.
The main compartment is well-organized with dedicated pockets for SD cards, batteries, a passport, and my phone. The flex-fold dividers make organization a breeze, keeping my accessories easily accessible while protecting delicate items. I also appreciate the separate sleeve for my iPad, Asus Zenbook, and portable hard drives, which reduces the risk of them getting lost or stolen while traveling.
Safety is a major priority, and this bag does an excellent job of protecting my equipment. The zippers feature a loop layer security system that prevents quick access, keeping my valuables safe from pick pockets on buses or crowded streets. The strong strap is designed to withstand attempted cut attacks by a thief,
while the cushioned padding helps absorb shocks from an accidental fall or bump. If needed, I can secure the main compartment further with a padlock. Since the bag doesn’t scream camera gear, it blends in well, making it a decent option for urban photography where you don’t want everyone to know you’re carrying expensive cameras and lenses.
This bag has handled rough conditions during my trip through South America, proving its durability and top-notch build quality. It has shown minimal wear and tear, even after weeks of use. The waterproof material has kept my gear safe through unexpected rainfall and a full downpour, while the included pack cover provides extra protection when needed.
Whether for short trips or long adventures around the world, this bag continues to perform beyond expectations. If you’re looking for a sling bag that offers the perfect mix of comfort, security, and storage without compromise, this is the one to go for.
Other helpful camera accessories for travel
When traveling with a camera, having the right gear is just as important as choosing a reliable bag. Peak Design makes high-quality products that many photographers trust for everyday use. The SlideLite strap is a strong and smartly designed option that holds a telephoto lens with a converter without feeling too thick around the neck.
It also has cut-resistant materials, making it harder for a thief to grab and cut it while you’re on the road. Another game changer is the Capture Clip system, which I highly recommend for hiking and long walks. It attaches securely to a strap, belt, or pack, keeping your camera accessible without the risk of dropping it.
For those who prefer a sling bag, the Peak Design 10L is perfect for mirrorless travel, fitting one body and multiple lenses while staying durable enough to last a long time. If you want something even smaller, the 5L version is a more compact option, though pricier. Despite being expensive, both bags are designed to protect your gear without compromising on space or convenience. Investing in the right accessories can make a big difference in how you carry and use your equipment on the go.
Not Convinced? Other Options to Carry your Camera while Travelling
Not every camera bag suits everybody’s preference, as travel photography depends on unique needs and style. While I love my Peak Design bag, I understand that other options might work better for some photographers and fellow bloggers. Many have detailed reasons for their favourite choices, and it’s always helpful to explore different bags that match your specific requirements. Whether you prefer something compact or with more storage, considering different designs can help you find the best fit for your adventures.
N2 Canvas Bag
The Caden N2 canvas bag is a perfect size for a day of shooting, and I’ve really enjoyed carrying it on my latest trip to Colombia. It’s strong enough to hold my Sony A7, an external flash, 2 lenses, a charger, and cables, making it a reliable choice for protecting gear. With so many camera bags on the market, it can be difficult to choose, but this one stands out for being stylish and functional. It quickly became a favourite, and I was never let down, as everything arrives home in one piece. If you have any questions or comments, I’d love to hear your personal experiences with similar bags!
F-stop Tilopa
The F-stop Tilopa is a great bag for hiking and travel, offering a real balance between structure and padding for carrying cameras safely. While not the smallest option, it provides substantial support with a hip belt, loops, and a hook to distribute weight evenly. The champagne cube design keeps gear well-organized, and I love how it lays flat for easy access, even on steep cliffs.
There are water pouches on either side, plus a zipper pocket for extra memory cards and batteries. It’s slightly longer and heavier than other bags, but it fits in an overhead bin when traveling. For weddings or carrying a larger atlas frame, this bag is a big upgrade from lighter options.
Peak Design
The Peak Design bag is a great choice for traveling, offering a comfortable, padded, and customizable design that keeps camera gear secure. It has expandable storage and water bottle holders, making it versatile for both a hike and daily use. The carry-on size ensures it fits easily at the airport, and the waist straps can hide when not needed.
The cube system helps organize gear efficiently, and the slide-through clasp and buckle design add convenience. While it’s not huge, it never feels dwarfed by larger bags and still carries much more than expected.
Wandrd
The Wandrd backpack is a great choice for hiking, thanks to its simple design and smart pocket placement that makes gear easy to open and access, even on steep surfaces. The flat-lay back allows for quick setup, while hooks on the arm straps are perfect for attaching extra accessories like a speaker or for tying small cameras securely.
However, the camera cube feels a bit flimsy, and the 35L size may be too small for those needing more space. While it has water bottle pockets, they feel awful and almost useless due to their positioning. The bag also has no back structure, which can make it uncomfortable when hitting brush or rocks at waist level.
Peter McKinnon
The Peter McKinnon bag is a great choice for those who need extra space and customization in their camera setup. Unlike the Peak Design bags, this one is built with high-quality materials and features a well-designed camera cube that helps keep gear organized. It can lay flat for easy packing, and the waist straps and shoulder straps provide support, though some find they suck at reducing strain during long trips. While the padding is good, the movement can feel a bit clunky, making it a different experience compared to other bags on the market.
Atlas Packs
The Atlas Packs is an adventure-ready pack designed for the athlete who needs a sturdy and customizable bag. It fits different torso sizes with an adjustable waist belt, making it comfortable for long trips. One of its best features is the pop-out and built-in storage that expands and contracts between 20-40 liters, giving flexibility based on your gear needs. The lens pouches and hip belts allow you to attach extra accessories, while the rain cover tucks neatly into the bottom for protection. The thick padding keeps gear safe, and the padded belts make carrying larger loads easier. Whether you need a smaller bag or something that holds more, this one adapts well. It even has a champagne water pouch and a stretchy bottle pouch on the side, making it perfect for travel. It’s discreet enough to fit under a seat on a plane, which is a great bonus!
Best Everyday Sling
The Wandrd Rogue sling is a top choice for those who need a compact and flexible pack for daily use. It comes in 3, 6, and 9 liters, giving enough space to carry cameras, lenses, and accessories while staying lightweight. The soft padding conforms to your back, making it comfy for long periods, whether riding an ebike, electric scooter, or going on short treks.
Made from 840-denier and 1680D ballistic nylon, it’s water-resistant and uses YKK zippers, ensuring durability. The tripod cinch straps at the bottom and a rear-most pocket for a tablet or laptop case add to its practicality. At $59, it’s worth the price, offering an elegantly designed messenger waist bag with smart slots that hold gear vertically, making it a favorite for photographers on the go.
Best Everyday Backpack
The Brevite Jumper is one of the best backpacks I’ve tested for everyday use, offering a compact 18-liter bag that blends stylish design with practical storage. Available in bright, eye-catching colors like lemon yellow and poppy red, it stands out while keeping things functional.
The side pocket provides easy access to your camera by simply unzipping the front, while the zippered mesh pouches inside hold lenses, batteries, cables, and SD cards securely. The main compartment is surprisingly roomy, with enough space for a sweater, lunch, and other essentials. There’s also a rearmost waterproof zipper to protect your laptop, making it an excellent travel option.
Unlike traditional camera bags, it has no cube, but the Velcro divider helps create a normal fold to keep things organized. The tripod attachment at the base and the luggage pass-through add convenience when moving through airports. Made from durable 600-denier polyester material, it has held up well after a year of use, showing no stains or significant wear.
The additional comfort features and lightweight design make it an easy choice for those who need a functional yet compact camera bag that doesn’t compromise on style. At $200, it’s a solid investment for daily carry.
My Favorite Camera Bag
After years of testing different camera bags, the Prvke V3 has been my best upgrade so far. Available in green, blue, black, camo, orange, and tan, it offers different sizes to choose from, including 11, 21, 31, and 41 liters. I personally prefer the 31-liter version because of its expandable roll top, which gives an additional 5 liters of space when needed.
Compared to the prior model V2, the V3 has better padding and comfort, especially with its improved back panel and shoulder straps. The luggage pass-through, passport pocket, and stronger magnets on the handles make traveling easier, while the updated zippers and other tweaks improve durability.
The internal organization is well-designed, with a spacious main compartment that fits everything I need for a shoot or video field work. The side-access panel makes it quick to unzip and grab gear, while the buckle system ensures that my tripod secures properly.
The exterior is built with waterproof tarpaulin and Robic 1680-denier ballistic nylon, making it strong enough to handle tough conditions. Over time, this bag has truly held up, offering both protection and ease of use.
One of my favorite features is the laptop sleeve, which fits a 16-inch computer and a tablet, along with several pockets and pouches to store smaller items. The Photography Bundle includes the Essential Camera Cube, which helps keep my gear well-organized.
There are also smart attachment straps on the exterior for carrying extra accessories. Whether for everyday use or extended travel, this bag is one of the best options out there for photographers who need reliability and space without compromising on style.
Another Good Backpack
The Everyday Backpack Zip is a solid choice for those who want simple, traditional storage with easy camera access. With its 20-liter capacity, it provides plenty of room for a Nikon Z6, multiple lenses, an external monitor, and a recorder while staying compact. The side pocket makes slinging it over one shoulder effortless, and the front zippered opening allows for quick organization. I’ve tested it with the Peak Design Travel Tripod, which stays secure thanks to the sturdy straps. The bag also includes a water bottle holder and well-thought-out pouches for spare batteries, storage cards, chargers, and cables, keeping everything in place without a tight squeeze.
For tech storage, the Everyday Backpack Zip comes in 15-liter and 20-liter versions, with a dedicated sleeve for a 16-inch laptop or a 13-inch tablet. The internal organization ensures that extra gear stays neatly arranged, while the 400-denier water-repellent nylon canvas shell keeps gear protected from a sudden downpour. It’s constructed from recycled post-consumer material, making it an eco-friendly option. The reinforced grab handles and comfy design create a perfect blend of portability and durability, offering excellent features for the money.
A Travel-Friendly Camera Backpack
When I traveled to Cupertino for an Apple announcement, I needed a bag that could handle my camera gear without feeling bulky. My Nikon Z6, an extra lens, and my Ekster Grid Tech Case ($60) kept my chargers, batteries, storage cards, and cables neatly organized. The main compartment was cavernous, fitting a mobile gimbal, speedlight, video light, and even my 16-inch laptop with a portable monitor in the rear-most section. Everything stayed secured, even when moving through crowded spaces. I appreciated the dedicated slot for my Peak Design Travel Tripod, which stayed firmly in place thanks to the built-in strap.
The thoughtful design of this carry-on system made traveling hassle-free. A water bottle pocket with a cinching strap kept things balanced, and the structured base helped it stay upright when placed on the ground. The secret side zippered passport pocket provided extra security, while the luggage passthrough made airport transitions seamless. Despite having a slim profile, the bag could expand when needed, offering flexible access to my gear.
Made from upcycled PET bottles, the Grid hardware was lightweight yet water-resistant, ensuring my equipment stayed safe. Even with a heavy load, the bag remained comfortable for hours on the go. It truly felt like the best rucking backpack, giving me confidence that my gear was secure, accessible, and easy to carry throughout my trip.
An Excellent Camera Tote Bag
When traveling, a Tote bag that fits Everything you need is a game changer. I once carried a camera, a spare lens, and even my dog’s food in a single roomy bag while on a beach trip. The dividers inside made it easy to organize my accessories, and the zippered pouch kept my gear protected. I could stow my extra clothes, sunglasses, and towels while still having space for water bottles and sunscreen. The fabric was soft, making it comfortable for long periods, and the shoulder strap had a shoulder pad for added comfort.
The crossbody design allowed for a short or long carry, solving the problem of carrying a heavy load. A magnetized small side pouch provided easy access to my Tech gadgets. The top could be secured by zipping it, ensuring everything stayed in place. Plus, I could quickly dig through and fill it with items I needed on the go. It was the perfect travel companion, balancing style and practicality while keeping all my essentials inside without hassle.
Best Budget Camera Backpack
For those who want a backpack that is both functional and budget-friendly, the Manfrotto Street Slim is a shocking find. I’ve filled its 12-liter capacity with my Nikon Z6, a strobe light, and even a Peak Design Travel Tripod without feeling overloaded. The synthetic fabric makes it lightweight yet durable, and the firmer padding at the base adds extra protection. I love how the camera cube helps convert it from a regular day bag into a full camera setup. Plus, there’s a dedicated sleeve for a laptop, making it ideal for work and travel.
The front pouch is great for small accessories, and I can quickly grab my gear by swinging forward and unzipping it. The side pockets are expandable, perfect for spare batteries, wireless mics, or even an external video monitor. The tech organizer keeps charging cables and adapters in place, so nothing gets tangled. The luggage pass-through makes it easy to attach to a suitcase for an all-day shoot. Though some pricier picks offer more features, this bag balances affordability with top-notch storage for all my gizmos.
How do I pack my camera for travel?
When traveling, it’s best to pack light and only bring what’s truly necessary for your photography. A minimal approach helps avoid carrying bulky items, allowing for better mobility and convenience. Choosing a compact bag with well-organized gear compartments will help maximize space while keeping the weight low. To be efficient, opt for a portable and practical setup that allows easy access to your equipment. Streamline your load by selecting essential accessories and leaving behind anything that adds extra weight without real benefit.
To carry your camera securely while maintaining convenience, use a discreet backpack instead of an obvious camera bag. This not only offers protection and storage but also helps avoid drawing attention to your expensive gear, reducing the risk of theft. A safer and more practical alternative is a lightweight backpack with a modular removable camera cube for added security and organization. This setup keeps your camera padded, enclosed, and weatherproof, ensuring protection from dust, moisture, and other elements while keeping your gear hidden from potential threats.
Can I bring my camera bag on a plane?
Yes, most airlines permit you to bring your camera bag as carry-on luggage, but it must follow airline size and weight restrictions. Before traveling, always check the airline’s rules to ensure your bag meets the requirements for carry-on baggage. If your bag fits within the dimensions allowed, you can store it in the overhead storage compartment or under your seat. TSA allows digital cameras in both carry-on and checked baggage, but security screening at the airport may require an inspection or scan before approval.
To minimize the risk of damage or loss, it is recommended to keep your camera and other valuable equipment in your carry-on rather than checking it. Ensure your bag is compliant with airline limitations, and be aware of battery restrictions since lithium-ion batteries have safety concerns. Some airlines have rules on quantity and power limits for electronics, so verify the latest regulations before you travel. At the TSA checkpoint, you may be asked to remove your camera for an x-ray scan or mandatory inspection, so pack it in an organized, padded case to ensure protection from impact and rough handling.
Which is the best camera backpack?
For those who prefer a compact, lightweight, and modular design, the Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack 21L is an excellent choice. This camera backpack offers smart organization with customizable storage to fit your gear efficiently. Its portable build makes it ideal for travel, while the padded interior provides added protection. The durable materials ensure longevity, and its secure compartments keep everything in place. Whether you’re carrying a full setup or just a few essentials, this versatile bag is designed to adapt to different needs while maintaining comfort.
For more professional use, the Gomatic McKinnon Camera Backpack 25L is a premium option with adjustable compartments and weatherproof materials for added protection. It is designed for photography enthusiasts who need secure, padded storage for their gear without sacrificing portability. If you’re an outdoor explorer, the Shimoda Explore V2 35L provides rugged, spacious storage for adventure and expedition needs. Meanwhile, city travelers may prefer the Shimoda Urban Explore 25, a stylish, lightweight, and secure option that offers mobility and durable protection for everyday use.
Are camera bags still trendy?
Yes, camera bags remain a staple accessory for photographers, combining style and function. In 2021, they started evolving with more practical designs that make it easier to carry gear while staying stylish. They continue to be popular, with emerging choices like vegan leather, modern materials, and unique colors that match different aesthetics. Whether for fashion or function, these bags are still trending, offering both protection and a sleek look.