Camera Bags & Photo Backpacks for Every Setup
Whether you're looking for a compact camera bag for a city trip or a spacious photo backpack for a big adventure—you'll find the right model for your camera gear here. Our selection includes photo backpacks, messenger bags, and lens cases from brands like Peak Design, Lowepro, Bronkey, and EVOC. Well-padded, thoughtfully organized, and secure for everyday use and on the go.
Camera Backpack or Camera Bag?
If you want to carry a camera, lenses, and accessories, you’ll have to choose between different types of bags. A compact camera bag or messenger bag is a good choice if you want quick access to your camera and are traveling with a manageable amount of gear. It’s comfortable to carry over your shoulder and is ideal for short outings, street photography, or photojournalism.
A camera backpack offers significantly more storage space and distributes the weight evenly across both shoulders. This makes it the better choice for longer trips, travel, and outdoor shoots where you’ll be carrying multiple lenses, a tripod, and often a laptop as well. The trade-off: You have to take it off to access the camera. Many models solve this with a side quick-access feature.
Camera strap, wrist strap, or holster?
Not every camera belongs in a bag. If you want to shoot quickly while on the go, it’s best to carry it directly against your body.
A camera strap slung over your shoulder distributes the weight and keeps the camera ready at hip level. Wide, padded straps are more comfortable for heavy setups consisting of a full-frame camera and a fast zoom lens, while narrow, lightweight versions are sufficient for compact systems and can be folded up small. Adjustable models like those from Peak Design can be lengthened with one hand, which noticeably speeds up the transition between carrying and shooting.
A hand strap is the minimalist solution. It prevents the camera from falling without anything dangling over your shoulder or getting tangled. For small cameras—and for anyone who’s out and about with the camera in hand all the time anyway—it’s often the most comfortable option.
A holster shifts the weight to your hip instead of your neck. The camera hangs from a plate attached to your belt and can be removed with a single motion. This significantly reduces strain during long shoots and is the standard solution when you need to carry two cameras at the same time, such as at a wedding or a sporting event.
Compatibility and Systems
Straps and holsters use different mounting systems. Peak Design uses Anchor Links—small loops that attach to the camera’s mounting points and allow you to switch straps in seconds. Spider Holster uses a plate with pins that snap into the holster. Many plates are also Arca-Swiss compatible, so the camera can be mounted on a tripod without any modifications. Make sure the strap, plate, and tripod head are compatible—this will save you from constantly having to reattach them.
The Right Size
Before buying, measure your largest camera-and-lens combination, including the lens hood if you attach it backwards. Allow room for what you’ll add in a year, but don’t buy more than you need: A half-empty bag offers less protection because the gear shifts around inside. For delicate lenses, a lens case is also worth it; for travel, an insert that fits into a regular backpack is useful.


























