The best DSLR camera bags for travel is one that you can carry around, use as a backpack, and hold a nice short distance. This helps you to manage various distances, diverse conditions, and different climates. Many photographers make heavy use of their camera bags to travel every day. They change the filters, grab additional equipment, and still search deep. A compact bag is a must for all travel photographers. Who doesn’t love a bag to carry or pass around easily?
Whether you’re taking pictures for business or enjoyment, making sure your much-loved and costly set of DSLR cameras, drones, lenses, and other gears are well-protected on the road is crucial to catching those amazing photographs at all times. However you want to travel, using specially made camera bags, backpacks, camera hiking backpacks, holsters, slings, and adapters to keep your camera secure, ensuring it is shielded from dents, bumps, damage, and even the weather.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 11 hrs of research
Manfrotto Advanced Befree Backpack for DSLR/CSC Cameras – Premium Pick
Why is it better?
- The webbing for the backpack and hip straps are barely an inch wide but made of very high-quality materials
- The design is very discreet
- The tripod pocket is very nice
- There are almost no sewn-in loops for accessories on the outside, which really makes it stealthy
AmazonBasics Large DSLR Camera Gadget Bag – Best Value
Why is it better?
- Very spacious while remaining compact at the same time
- Can easily fit a DSLR body with two lenses (and more accessories)
- Small tablet fits easily in the inner sleeve
- The main compartment has 2 straps, velcro, and a zipper
Best DSLR Camera Bags for Travel – Overview
The best DSLR camera travel bag is important for the photographer on the move. You need a pack that is compact and has space for all your tools, so you can store your stuff properly and prevent damage to the equipment. Here is a list of the best DSLR camera bags for travel. Featuring different choices for everybody, from stylishly made cloth bags, hardshell packaging for harder conditions, and even sling bags for easy shots and minimal style.
DSLR Camera Bags for Travel Reviews
1. Manfrotto Advanced Befree Backpack for DSLR/CSC Cameras – Premium Pick
The Manfrotto Advanced Befree Backpack for DSLR/CSC Cameras fits the standard to fit as carry-on luggage. This bag comes with the option and proper connections to attach your tripod externally. The custom-designed dividers have the option to fold out of the way when needed or to be pulled out to protect your equipment in special situations.
This bag comes with a special internal compartment to carry your tripod internally. Protect your laptop during transport in the compartment. For easy wheel along transportation simply slide the designated strap connector over any standard trolley or luggage handle. A specially applied coating to the fabric keeps resistant to moisture.
Key Features:
- Rain cover included
- Manfrotto 5 Year Limited Warranty (2 Year + 3 Year with Registration)
- Rear access for your camera and lens
- Holds a 15″ laptop and 9.7″ tablet
- Fits a medium level DSLR with 70/200 mm f/2.8 lens attached
Specifications:
- Brand: Manfrotto
- Dimensions: 17″ H x 12″ W x 12″ D
- Weight: 3 lbs
- The webbing for the backpack and hip straps are barely an inch wide but made of very high-quality materials
- The design is very discreet
- The tripod pocket is very nice
- There are almost no sewn-in loops for accessories on the outside, which really makes it stealthy
- The outermost side pouches may not fit a water bottle once the zippered side pouches have been filled up
2. Lowepro Pro Runner BP 450 AW II DSLR Camera Backpack
The Lowepro Pro Runner BP 450 AW II DSLR Camera Backpack features padded, touch-fastening dividers for storing two Pro DSLR cameras with an attached 70-200mm 2. 8 or 300mm lens, 5-6 extra lenses, Speedlight’s, and various accessories. Padded sleeves inside the front, zippered compartment holds an up to 15″ laptop, 10″ tablet, and a Wacom type tablet. Also inside this compartment is a zippered, clear-mesh pocket for cables and related items.
Cradle Fit construction suspends and protects your valuable gear from bumps and contact with the ground during transport. At the bottom of the main compartment is a useful, removable accessory case for your hard drives, cords, and other small items. Numerous interior and exterior pockets accommodate a wide variety of gear, and help keep your backpack free of clutter and well organized.
Key Features:
- Clear-mesh pocket for cable
- Removable accessory case
- YKK locking zippers
- Adjustable shoulder straps
Specifications:
- Brand: LOWEPRO
- Dimensions: 19.49″ H x 13.7″ W x 7.09″ D
- Weight: 6.40 lbs
- The straps and padding work really well
- The internal dividers are easy to adjust and there are enough of them to create separate compartments
- The handles on the top and side make it easy to carry
- There’s a good size pocket for a large water bottle
- With two bodies, in the top and bottom of the bag, the fit is really snug on the side with the camera grip. It’s not so snug that you can’t get the cameras in or out
3. AmazonBasics Large DSLR Camera Gadget Bag – Best Value
The AmazonBasics Large DSLR Camera Gadget Bag is a must-have for carrying your DSLR camera, lenses, and other camera accessories. No matter what equipment you use, the removable interior of the AmazonBasics backpack can be adjusted to fit a DSLR camera body, up to three lenses, and other accessories. The bag also features adjustable straps on the exterior to attach and carry a tripod.
Don’t worry about leaving your tablet or eReader at home. The large gadget bag features a padded slot that is able to fit iPad mini, Kindle Fire, Google Nexus 7, and other small devices. Additional pockets in the front offer a space for a cell phone and other electronics and accessories. The AmazonBasics adjustable, heavily padded, shoulder strap makes the gadget bag comfortable to wear even when loaded with all your gear.
Key Features:
- Slot for iPad Mini, Google Nexus 7, Amazon Kindle Fire
- Customizable padded interior
- Exterior straps secure tripods or other bulky accessories
- Holds 1 DSLR body and up to 3 lenses
Specifications:
- Brand: AmazonBasics
- Dimensions: 9″ H x 7″ W x 12″ D
- Weight: 1.56 lbs
- Very spacious while remaining compact at the same time
- Can easily fit a DSLR body with two lenses (and more accessories)
- Small tablet fits easily in the inner sleeve
- The main compartment has 2 straps, velcro, and a zipper
- No bottle holders or outside pockets
4. Beschoi DSLR Camera Backpack
The Beschoi DSLR Camera Backpack has plenty of rooms for all your photography equipment. Designed to hold your photo and editing tools with ease and comfort while on the move. The waterproof multi-use camera backpack features a customized interior to hold and protect 1-2 DSLR cameras, 4-6 lenses, flash Speedlite, laptop up to 13.3 inches, lightweight tripod and other photo essentials.
Equipped with antitheft zippers for the main compartment without code lock. Also, the dual zipper sliders connect and are compatible with standard luggage locks for added security. Honeycomb board design, breathable air-mesh widened and adjustable shoulder straps make the professional camera backpack comfortable to wear even when loaded with all your gear.
Key Features:
- Movable dividers
- Interior slip pocket with Velcro
- Equipped with antitheft zippers
- Side attachment cup
Specifications:
- Brand: Beschoi
- Dimensions: 17.3″ H x 5.5″ W x 11″ D
- Weight: 2.31 lbs
- The padding is great
- Compact bag with plenty of storage for accessories
- Has a clear pouch inside, perfect for seeing what you have instead of having to dig for memory cards and such
- The backpack is light
- If you run an attached battery grip on your camera body, this bag is too shallow for it to fit while attached and sit in the pocket zippered up
5. Thule Covert DSLR Rolltop Backpack
Thule Covert DSLR Rolltop Backpack is a versatile rolltop backpack for the urban explorer’s photo equipment and personal gear. Fits up to prosumer DSLR body with attached ultra-wide-angle lens plus a drone and accessories. Easily access camera and drone gear from protective storage pod while on the go. Ergonomic design provides the perfect balance of support and cushioning.
Custom-fit and protection, thanks to origami-inspired divider system that folds around the smallest to largest pieces of gear. Dedicated, protective compartments for a 15″ MacBook Pro and an iPad or 10″ tablet. Spacious rolltop compartment stores personal items and expands when the camera pod is removed. Front pockets provide plenty of organization and quick-stash storage for accessories. Our handy guide to the best roll top backpacks features more great products like this.
Key Features:
- Quick side access
- Custom-fit dividers
- Front pocket organization
- Ergonomic chassis system
Specifications:
- Brand: Thule
- Dimensions: 21.3″ H x 7.9″ W x 17.7″ D
- Weight: 4.97 lbs
- Very comfortable
- There’s a secure pouch inside
- Laptop sleeve up to 15″
- There’s room for a water bottle outside
- Lack of pockets with pen holders
6. AmazonBasics Holster Camera Case for DSLR Cameras
Experience a camera case that will keep up with your quest for capturing great shots with this sleek AmazonBasics Holster Camera Case for DSLR Cameras. Designed with an adjustable, padded shoulder strap for wearing as an over-the-shoulder bag, the camera case ensures hands-free convenience and easy access to your gear. Whether world traveling, road tripping, or simply enjoying a stroll around the neighborhood, the camera case offers exceptional comfort while keeping your camera at the ready.
The AmazonBasics holster camera case accommodates most digital SLR cameras with a zoom lens attached (up to 110mm). The case’s main compartment features a double-zipper closure and dual adjustable Velcro straps that suspend your camera securely in place for superior impact protection. Thoughtfully designed, the AmazonBasics holster camera case features a waterproof EVA base, which wraps up the sides about an inch, adding enhanced protection for your stored camera.
Key Features:
- Fits most DSLR cameras
- 3 exterior pockets for small accessories
- 2 dedicated slots for SD memory cards
- Waterproof EVA base offers added protection and stability
- Adjustable padded shoulder strap
Specifications:
- Brand: AmazonBasics
- Dimensions: 9″ H x 7″ W x 6″ D
- Weight: 0.88 lbs
- It is a great camera bag for beginners
- Substantial padding to protect from bumps and minor drops
- Convenient pockets for memory cards and other small items
- Durable nylon material
- Plastic D-rings and strap clips
7. Peak Design Everyday Camera Backpack
Built for the imaginative and active individual, Peak Design Everyday Camera Backpack has been built to secure and stretch comfortably to fit a range of gears. This DSLR camera bag has been designed to fit a complete DSLR 3-4-lens mount. The bag also includes a dedicated laptop compartment.
Three FlexFold contact fastening dividers can be installed to create cubbies and pass-throughs to cover a variety of camera and lens configurations, as well as other gear types. The MagLatch device lets you stretch your bag if you find yourself wearing extra clothing. Two outer side pockets and a nylon strap attached to your backpack will hold a sturdy tripod, cover, or water bottle.
Key Features:
- Laptop sleeve/pocket holds laptops up to 16″
- 3 Flexfold Dividers protect cameras, drones, and lenses
- Waterproof 400D nylon canvas shell
- Exterior & sub-divided Interior pockets
Specifications:
- Brand: Peak Design
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 13″ W x 7.75″ D
- Weight: 2.9 lbs
- Solid construction & durable materials
- Actually useful divider system
- Versatile, you don’t need to be a photographer to get a lot out of this bag
- The key tether keeps keys in place yet out of sight
- Price is on the expensive side
8. Lowepro LP37177 ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera Backpack
The Lowepro LP37177 ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera Backpack expands upon the rugged versatility and armored protection. Modular includes two quick-lock straps and a slip lock tripod cup to mount a tripod securely also fits multiple accessories in the Lowepro range with the slip lock system.
Tough EVA molded top armored section and protective padding all around the bag ensures equipment inside is protected. Flexible and adaptive dividers inside allow multiple configurations of the camera kit to be positioned with ease. Comfortable carrying with the activzone system technology delivers targeted support at shoulder blades lumbar and waist for all-day carry comfort
Key Features:
- Tough EVA molded top
- Flexible and adaptive dividers
- Modular Includes two quick-lock straps
- Comfortable carrying with the activzone system
Specifications:
- Brand: Lowepro
- Dimensions: 20.5″ H x 14.2″ W x 8.7″ D
- Weight: 5.95 lbs
- Movable panels inside the backpack
- The top compartment access is perfect for a quick run and gun scenario
- This bag is not big or flashy and keeps logos to a minimum
- Since the zippers are on the inside, if you are in a country or location where theft is a problem, this bag will keep your gear safe
- Good quality YKK zippers but not smooth
9. Evecase Extra Large Professional DSLR Camera/Laptop Travel Backpack
Carry your Digital SLR Camera, laptop, or tablet and all camera accessories/equipment with ease and comfort using the Evecase Extra Large Professional DSLR Camera/Laptop Travel Backpack. This comfortable, multi-use backpack features a number of internal and external accessory pockets for storage, offering convenience and portability for avid photographers on the go.
Convenient side holder straps and mesh pockets to hold a tripod, other bulky accessories, or water bottle. The heavily padded shoulder straps and wide, adjustable waist and chest straps make the backpack comfortable on the go. Includes a rain cover to protect valuable camera and equipment from water and moisture.
Key Features:
- Dedicated laptop pocket
- Heavily padded shoulder straps
- A number of internal and external accessory pockets
- Convenient side holder straps and mesh pockets
Specifications:
- Brand: Evecase
- Dimensions: 19″ H x 12″ W x 10″ D
- Weight: 6.06 lbs
- Zippers are good
- Rain cover works great
- Excellent protection for gear
- Lots of versatility for interior configuration
- The side straps that hold a tripod are not durable
10. Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack Bag for DSLR
The lightweight, durable Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack Bag for DSLR is ready for all your daily escapades! Adjustable, padded dividers allow you to customize the main compartment to the various combinations of cameras and lenses you might pick to accompany you on your daily adventures.
The top compartment above it holds flashes and other accessories, while the zippered interior pockets in both compartments keep batteries and cards safe and sound. It even has a tripod holder on the side. The soft, padded, cross-body strap wears comfortably and can be rotated to bring the bag to the front of the body. This – and the zippered side opening – allows you quick and easy access to your travel companions without removing the bag.
Key Features:
- Side-zippered main compartment with customizable, sturdy, padded dividers
- Top compartment for flashes and other shooting essentials
- Mesh interior pockets for smaller items
- Tripod/monopod holder on exterior
Specifications:
- Brand: Altura Photo
- Dimensions: 16″ H x 8.5″ W x 5.5″ D
- Weight: 1.1 lbs
- Easily fits smaller DX lenses and body
- Lots of small pockets
- Nice looking bag and lightweight
- Has a space for a tripod
- Slightly small if you are using FX lenses
Buying Guide
Size
The camera bag you select must be adequately large to suit your camera, lenses, charger, spare batteries, and all other accessories that you need to capture awesome pictures. The amount of stuff you choose to bring will determine pretty much the size of the pack you use. Also, the smallest camera bags would need room to hold SD cards, batteries, and chargers.
Comfort
Chasing the perfect picture would potentially require some travel by car, bus, or even by air. You may also need to find the best place to shoot through vast, challenging terrains. Buying a bag that is hard to hold or awkward to wear is a big no! Your bag should have some adjustability standards and it’ll be easy to wear for long periods of time.
Customization
Many high-end camera bags provide a degree of versatility, which ensures you can make them more convenient to wear and make them the ideal room for all of your accessories. The straps can be placed on the outside over the shoulders or cross-body, while the interior compartments can be rearranged to suit the needs. Many use Velcro squares that are clipped to the top or bottom of the bag, which can be re-sized to keep your camera secure and stable.
Security
Cameras are gold for would-be thieves, and your bag will need to protect your kit from human threats as well as the elements. It will need to have secure, sturdy zippers and fastenings, and should be easy to lock up if you need to. Your bag should also be simple and inconspicuous on the outside to prevent it from being a beacon to would-be criminals.
Value
When you need super-fast access to your camera, it’ll be hugely important how easily you can catch it. Most dedicated camera bags provide easy access side compartments and fabrics such as Velcro so you can get in and in as quickly as you need them. Shoulder bags and messenger bags have a clear advantage over other camera bag types as they provide the fastest access possible. Even a waist belt could be a smart idea because you’ll have your hands free to aim and shoot at the very moment you like.
Frequently Ask Questions
What should I keep in my camera bag?
That very much depends on you and where and what are you taking photos off. Your camera, filters, replacement batteries, flash, sd cards, tripod, microfiber cleaning fabric, rain cover, external hard drive, and a laptop/tablet are some items you should keep in your bag.
Can a camera bag be a carry-on?
Most are designed to fit into airline carry-on baggage size requirements (just make sure the proportions are double checked). As for if, in addition to another hand luggage, you should carry your camera, it will depend on the airline and class you are flying, so you’ll need to review the individual criteria of each airline.
What are camera bags made of?
The most effective are weather-resistant ones as they can keep your DSLR well covered and in harsh weather conditions. Many goods options include weatherproof cotton canvas, nylon, and leather.
Conclusion
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best DSLR camera bags for travel as well as our guide on features to look for in a DSLR camera bag for travel. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.