Camera Bags and Rollers for On-the-Go Photographers & Videographers

Camera Bags and Rollers for On-the-Go Photographers & Videographers

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Camera bags, backpacks and other carry gear are essentials for anyone using a camera outfit complete with lenses and accessories. That’s why photographers and videographers ranging from pros on assignment to enthusiasts pursuing their passion and casual shooters need to own at least one. And preferably two or more camera bags and rollers.

Bag manufacturers create literally hundreds of precision-engineered camera-toting products based on extensive hands-on input from end users. Moreover, carry gear is precisely targeted at specific consumer niches. A good example: the increasing popularity of outdoor, adventure and wildlife photography has resulted in a proliferation of brilliantly designed high-tech photo backpacks aimed at attracting this expanding and lucrative market segment.

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Vanguard VEO Range 21M

What’s more, with the profusion of new pro, enthusiast-aimed and compact DSLR and mirrorless cameras, there’s a need to accommodate a wider variety of outfits and accessories. As a result, ingenious new systems that vastly enhance the convenience, flexibility and setup options are now available.

Another significant feature in camera carrying gear is the inclusion of laptop/tablet compartments. This clearly reflects the increasing connectivity demanded by today’s content creators operating in the field. Consequently, many of the latest bags incorporate impact-absorbing layers or inserts to protect delicate equipment and computer screens. They also provide a variety of access points to enable photographers to remove the equipment they need without disturbing the rest.

In addition, ruggedized and water-repellent materials plus more effective closures and sealing better protect equipment in inclement weather. The overall quality of construction, finish as well as materials in camera bags have come up several notches in recent years. This is a sure sign that the camera bag market is not only becoming more sophisticated but also more varied and competitive.

A Guide to Camera Bag Types

Our scintillating selection of 12 camera bags represents four categories offered by leading manufacturers. Please note, every manufacturer on our short list also offers excellent bags of other types. Furthermore, similar high-quality carry gear is available from other reputable companies not included here. We therefore urge you to use this article as a starting point for checking out the entire cameras bag category! But first, let’s look at the four categories.

Sling Bags

Also known as holster bags, their chief virtues are compactness and convenience. They fit across the shoulders and chest, and most provide quick access to equipment from the right or left. They also work best with a small basic outfit—a camera body with one or two lenses and small accessories. While some models offer a larger capacity, photographers are probably better off choosing a larger shoulder bag if they’re toting multiple cameras plus large lenses.

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Domke F-5XB RuggedWear
Shoulder Bags

They’re the most popular class of camera bag because they provide an optimal combination of convenience, carrying capacity as well as configurability. They also come in the widest variety of attractive styles. They span from spartan minimalist and rugged military-look models to bags aimed at women shooters that resemble high fashion handbags in a choice of colors.

Photo Backpacks

Photo packs come in a wide range of sizes from compact to full size. They’re the hot ticket among pros as well as serious enthusiasts because they can transport a full complement of gear in comfort—including a large laptop. Due to their increasing popularity among active lifestyle shooters, the number of backpacks on the market has expanded exponentially in recent years.

Roller Bags

They often have protective hard-sided exteriors and wheels that make them a great choice for gliding through the airport. Many roller bags will also fit in airline overhead luggage bins. Very popular among pros, these bags are a great choice for any serious shooter who needs to take the whole kit and caboodle along to a travel destination. In addition, they are a great way to organize and store equipment at home.

      A Cross Section of Carry Bags and Rollers

Vanguard VEO Range 21M

This small Vanguard messenger bag is ideal for protecting and transporting a mirrorless/hybrid camera outfit that includes 2–3 lenses, a flash and assorted accessories. The fashionably understated bag has a light-colored padded interior that makes it easy to identify gear in dim light. It also features a full top access flap that opens away from the user and touch-fastening dividers. A padded interior sleeve holds a 7-inch mini-tablet, and there are multiple storage pockets.

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Vanguard VEO Range 21M

In addition, it provides a comfortably wide shoulder strap and handy tripod straps on the front. Double buckle closures on the front flap provide added security, and there’s an elastic side pocket for a water bottle or a similar sized accessory. Travel documents and wallets are conveniently secured in a front pocket. Moreover, it will accommodate a small drone. The bag also comes with a full rain cover. It measures 10.6×8.6×6.3 inches externally; 9.3×7.5×4.4 inches internally. It also weighs in at a portable 17 ounces. Beige or navy blue, $54.99.

Peak Design Everyday Sling v2

Good-looking, well-constructed as well as versatile, this Peak Design nylon bag comes in 3L, 6L and 10L sizes. It has a dual-adjustment shoulder strap allowing right- or left-shoulder carrying. In addition, a weatherproof UltraZip provides quick, easy access. Plus, there’s a briefcase style handle. Furthermore, its two touch-fastened, foldable FlexFold dividers permit a wide range of custom configurations.

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Peak Design Everyday Sling v2

The 10L sling accommodates a DSLR or mirrorless body with 2–3 lenses, a 13-inch laptop or tablet plus a tripod or monopod attached to the exterior via compression straps. What’s more, there’s an expandable pocket for frequently used items and slip pockets for storing batteries, pens, etc. A weatherproof 100% recycled 400D shell with a DWR weatherproof coating keeps gear safe and dry in inclement weather. The 10L measures 12x6x8.4 inches in the interior and weighs 17 ounces with dividers. Ash or black, $159.95.

Jo Totes Gracie

This fashion-forward Jo Totes shoulder bag in colorful, water-resistant faux leather is aimed at female content creators. The Gracie is suitable as a high-capacity handbag or a camera bag. It holds a DSLR or mirrorless system, including lenses, an iPad as well as essential accessories in its seven storage pockets. Furthermore, four removable touch-fastened dividers let users configure the interior. Plus, two front accessory pockets have stylish buckle accents. And it provides front and rear zippered pockets, as well as an easy access open rear pocket.

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Jo Totes Gracie

Moreover, a full-length zipper provides access to the main compartment. It also features a zippered iPad-sized pocket on one side and a smaller zippered pocket on the other for personal items. The light gray cotton interior is sewn with foam on all sides and the bottom. Further, there’s extra protective padding within the main two-thirds of the bag, and four metal feet protect the bottom. Carrying options include a removable, adjustable shoulder strap, cross-body straps and a removable shoulder pad. Butterscotch, $99; mint, $99; black, $119.

Think Tank Photo Airport Security v3.0

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Think Tank Photo Airport Security v3.0

This pro-caliber rolling case from Think Tank Photo meets most airline carry-on requirements. It’s constructed of water-repellent 1680D ballistic nylon, closed-cell foam padding and reinforced PE board dividers for strength and durability. A spacious interior holds two large gripped DSLRs with lenses attached and six other lenses (up to a 600mm f/4 detached or an attached 500mm f/4 with hood reversed). It also holds a 17-inch laptop, a 10-inch tablet and various accessories, all in lockable compartments.

The case rolls on 80mm ABEC grade 5 ball-bearing wheels. It has a retractable tubular aluminum trolley handle, and grab handles on three sides make for easy lifting. Additional niceties are a tripod mount; a water bottle pocket; straps for larger tripods; zippered interior compartments for memory cards, batteries, etc.; and reinforced dividers and corners.

Moreover, it has TSA-approved zipper locks for the main compartment and a serial number for lost-and-found registration. The case comes with a TSA travel padlock, a cable lock and a seam-sealed rain cover. Exterior dimensions, 14x22x9 inches; interior dimensions, 13x21x7.8-inches; weight, 12.9 pounds. Black, $449.75.

ProMaster Cityscape 15

This holster sling bag from ProMaster offers sleek and understated contemporary styling. The versatile bag is designed for today’s shooters on the go. Photographers can wear the Cityscape 15 as a shoulder bag, a sling bag or attached to a belt. Furthermore, when they attach the included secondary strap to the extra set of D-rings on the back, the holster sling will hug the wearer’s waist in the sling position. Consequently, this prevents the bag from bouncing around.

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ProMaster Cityscape 15

The holster sling accommodates a DSLR or mirrorless camera body. In addition, the bag’s extendable bottom section will accommodate a large lens. It also provides handy memory card pouches in its interior top flap. What’s more, the ProMaster sling includes a rain cover to protect equipment from the elements. Constructed of strong, durable, lightweight fabrics, the bag’s light-colored interior makes it easy to locate small items even in dim light. The Cityscape 15 measures a compact 5.8×6.8×3.8 inches. Brown or charcoal gray, $59.95.

Pelican 1510TP

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Pelican 1510TP

Meeting FAA carry-on requirements, this Pelican case features Pelican’s TrekPak divider system. Moreover, the virtually indestructible, watertight, airtight, dustproof, corrosion-proof hard case protects equipment from practically anything short of a thermonuclear explosion. Made in the USA, it’s fabricated of high-impact structural copolymer and has a ¼-inch neoprene O-ring seal. An automatic purge valve provides quick equalization after changes in atmospheric pressure. Further, the hinged case has double ABS latches and theft-resistant padlock protectors.

The case also has long side handles, a long front handle and a retractable extension handle with a low-effort release latch. Its robust polyurethane wheels have stainless steel bearings.

What’s more, the TrekPak system uses pre-installed wall sections, divider panels and locking pins. An easy-to-use cutting tool enables custom configuration. Once the dividers are cut to size, users can lock them in place with the provided steel U-pins. The 7/16-inch-thick divider sections are made of waterproof, closed-cell foam that’s laminated to a rigid, tear-resistant corrugated plastic panel. External dimensions, 22×13.8×9 inches; internal dimensions, 19.8x11x7.6 inches; weight, 14.9 pounds. Black, tan or green, $229.95.

Domke F-5XB RuggedWear

This timeless Domke classic shoulder and belt bag features waxed, weatherresistant RuggedWear canvas. The durable bag can hold a DSLR or mirrorless camera body plus one or two lenses. In addition, it has five separate compartments and pockets to accommodate essential accessories. Photographers can remove its gripper shoulder strap and use the belt loop and presto—it’s a handy waist/hip bag.

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Domke F-5XB RuggedWear

What’s more, the shoulder bag’s padded main compartment has both zipper and touch-fastening closures for extra security and easy access. In addition, the RuggedWear imparts an attractive “distressed” patina that is easily restored by using the included environmentally friendly refinishing wax. Exterior dimensions, 10×7.3×4.5 inches; interior dimensions, 9.5x6x4 inches; weight: 1.6 pounds. Brown or military green, $120.

Manfrotto Advanced Befree III

Spacious enough to fit a large DSLR with an attached 70–200mm f/2.8 zoom and six additional lenses, the backpack still meets airport carry-on requirements. Well-configured, the upgraded 15-liter backpack features a Manfrotto M-Guard protection system with high-density EVA foam dividers. They provide improved shock protection in a slimmer profile and permit folding patterns that fully protect gear while maximizing space.

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Manfrotto Advanced Befree III

Made of water-resistant polyester nylon, it features a removable 10L, 9.8×5.5×10.6-inch insert. The above top section measures 9.8×5.5×4.7 inches for personal items. Moreover, a separate tech compartment accommodates a 15-inch laptop and an 9.7-inch tablet with easy access to both without unpacking the bag.

Other features include dual side tripod holders; a water bottle pocket; a rear “hidden pocket” for passports and valuables; adjustable shoulder straps; a soft top handle; and a trolly sleeve. Internal and external pockets and pouches organize gear. It also acts as a drone pack. The pack comes with a rain fly. Exterior dimensions, 19.3x13x8.3 inches; internal dimensions, 9.8×5.5×17.3 inches; weight, 2.7 pounds. Black, $149.99.

MindShift Gear PhotoCross 13

This large-capacity photo backpack holds an ungripped DSLR or mirrorless body; 3–5 lenses, including a 70–200mm f/2.8 detached; and a 13-inch laptop. The MindShift Gear bag offers easy front access to the camera compartment via a top-facing zippered panel. Along the inside are two zippered, mesh pockets for organizing small items. Further, there’s a slip side pocket that holds the laptop. Adjustable, removable dividers also allow users to configure the main compartment for various outfits.

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MindShift Gear PhotoCross 13

The PhotoCross also has another zippered pocket for books, notepads, etc. Other features include a top handle and side handle; wide, padded shoulder straps with 3D mesh padding; a stretchable side pocket for a 32-ounce water bottle; weather-resistant nylon and polyester construction; and a seam-sealed cover.

What’s more, six exterior gear loops and dual compression straps enable users to attach a tripod. Exterior dimensions, 12.6×17.7×7.1 inches; interior dimensions, 14.2×9.4×5.5 inches; weight: 2.4 pounds. Orange ember or carbon gray, $142.75.

National Geographic Africa M

This rugged-looking Nat Geo backpack accommodates a compact mirrorless or DSLR camera outfit whether on safari or simply exploring the urban scene. Ingeniously configured, the pack has a small removable insert for organizing and protecting the camera plus 1–2 lenses, as well as accessories. There’s also an interior padded sleeve that holds a laptop up to 15 inches and provides extra room for personal incidentals.

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National Geographic Africa M

Other features include padded dividers, a flap and strap closure, a top carry handle, a trolley strap, an external connection for attaching a tripod, as well as multiple accessory pockets. Users may wear the pack using the fully adjustable shoulder straps and chest connector. Moreover, high-quality durable canvas, breathable cotton and genuine leather ensure a long lifespan. The Africa M backpack has external dimensions of 12.2×7.1×17.3 inches; internal dimensions of 10.2×4.7×8.3 inches; and weighs a trekkable 3 pounds. Brown, $119.99.

Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II

This handsome, large-capacity backpack holds up to two pro DSLRs—one with an attached 70–200mm f/2.8 zoom—and eight additional lenses or flash units. The Lowepro bag also accommodates a 15-inch laptop in its suspended CradleFit laptop pocket. What’s more, it can hold a 360º camera, a small drone and gimbals. Moreover, the pack provides four access points at the top and sides for retrieving items without disturbing the rest. Further, its upgraded interior makes it easier to create customized configurations with the SlipLock-compatible strap system and adjustable interior dividers.

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Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II

The pack’s super-adjustable ActivZone system harness delivers targeted support at the shoulder blades. Its easily removable waist belt also provides added security on the go.

In addition, the bag features a built-in, all-weather cover; a water bottle pouch; an accessory case; a tripod cup; two cinch straps (SlipLock compatible); a carry handle; as well as accessory loops for attaching items. Constructed of top-quality nylon and polyester, the pack measures 20.5×14.2×8.7 inches externally and 17.3×11.8×6.3 inches internally. It weighs in at 6.3 pounds. Black, $370.95.

Tamrac Velocity 7z v2.0

This compact sling bag can hold a DSLR or a mirrorless camera with a short lens, an extra lens as well as a flash or another small accessory. Further, Tamrac’s Velocity series has a design that allows users to carry them comfortably like backpacks, but they don’t have to remove the slings to access photo equipment. This stylish, upgraded, black-and-gray sling features a zippered front compartment and an accessory organizer. Moreover, a padded inner sleeve accommodates a small tablet, while padded touch-fastening interior dividers keep everything securely in place.

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Tamrac Velocity 7z v2.0

Also featured is Tamrac’s customizable Modular Accessory system. In addition, the sling has a clear mesh zip pocket under the lid; a stretchable side pocket; and a small, zippered pocket on the shoulder strap for holding a phone or wallet. It also has a padded shoulder strap and an adjustable waist belt for securely carrying gear in comfort.

The Tamrac Velocity 7z v2.0 is made of high-spec nylon. Exterior dimensions, 11.8×6.5×12 inches; interior dimensions, 9×3.5×10.5 inches; weight, 2 pounds on the nose. $59.99.

Tenba Roadie Roller 18

This commodious Tenba roller case has a large main compartment with adjustable dividers that hold most photographers’ entire kit. That includes two pro DSLR or mirrorless bodies, one with an attached 300mm f/2.8 lens, plus 4–5 additional smaller lenses, flash units as well as accessories. The interior of the main compartment lid has four clear mesh pockets for easy identification of the contents. One exterior pocket holds a portable battery bank that charges devices in transit. Plus, a quick-access rear zippered battery pocket holds common portable batteries.

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Tenba Roadie Roller 18

There’s a side drop-in tripod carrier for strapping tripods, and a zippered front pocket organizes items like pens and passports. Additionally, a padded, divided sleeve holds a 16-inch laptop and tablet. The case has four handles: a two-stage telescoping top handle; a leather trimmed non-telescoping top handle; a side handle; and a bottom handle that facilitates overhead storage. A built-in TSA-approved combination lock secures the main compartment zipper.

Also included is a braided steel side cable to secure the case to a fixed object. A honeycomb frame and nylon construction ensure weather resistance. A rain cover and protective wheel housings afford extra protection. Further, its shock-absorbing wheels with carbon steel bearings, wheel housings, foot stands and telescoping handle are replaceable. The Roadie 18 meets airline carry-on requirements. Exterior dimensions, 14.x18x9 inches; interior dimensions, 11x14x5 inches; weight, 8.8 pounds. Black, $329.95.

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