The best camera bag of 2024

Lowepro has been around for decades now, and they never seem to disappoint. The Nova 180 AW II isn't the biggest camera bag on this list, nor is it the most eye-catching - but it is absolutely brilliant when it comes to balanced features. It's large enough to carry essential equipment needed for most DSLR shoots, and it's highly durable and well-made. You can adjust the dividers for a snug fit with your kit. Although, we do think that it could benefit from an extra layer of inner base padding if your camera and lens are larger and heavier than most. That said, for most photographers, this is going to tick all of the right boxes when it comes to practicality, portability and overall quality.

Budget can mean cheap and nasty - but not here. Users report that this camera backpack offers a lot more than the price tag would suggest. TARION has a large range of camera storage gear on the market, and this one really stands out for a number of reasons. Firstly, this is large enough and inconspicuous enough to double as a normal day bag for trips out and about, and it's also designed to take a laptop. There's a removable rain cover (although it's only up to withstanding light drizzle) and it has lots of compartments and adjustability. Handy straps mean you can even attach a small tripod. Amazing for the price.

More of a traditionally styled option, this Think Tank Digital Holster 10 V2 Messenger Bag is the best camera bag for anyone looking for a more standard camera case. It fits one standard DSLR camera body with a compact or telephoto lens attached. It also has some extra breathing room down the bottom with an extendable zip. There's an easy-access pocket for batteries and other smaller accessories too. One excellent feature of a bag this size is that the height can be increased slightly to accommodate a longer lens.

When Amazon's 'Basics' range gets the balance right between affordability and quality, they really do get it right. This Camera Sling Bag is perfect for throwing over your shoulder on a day out. It's large enough to carry your camera, lens and some essentials. You get the obligatory adjustable dividers of course, but the padded waist belt and some easy-access external pockets make for a practical all-purpose bag too. A really well-considered feature is the two-step access to reach the camera itself - ideal if you're wearing this cross-body in crowded streets. Of course, at this price, not everything is perfect - the rain cover is reportedly unreliable; so, buy a separate one and you'll be all set for slinging this over your shoulder and heading out to shoot.

Not everyone wants to wear their camera around their middle, especially if it's one of the heavier ones, but if you do, this Mantona ElementsPro 20 is ideal. It's large enough, yet well-balanced enough, to stay where you need it as it keeps your essential gear close at hand. The waist belt has zipped pockets and side mesh pockets as well, putting practicality first. This is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants their camera bag to have a quick-access design. And if you're sitting down or need a change, there's a strap to use this as a shoulder bag too.

We think this crossbody messenger bag from MOSISO is a refreshing alternative to all of the black and grey nylon that seems to dominate camera cases. Not only does it have a softer, more relaxed look to it, but it also has all the features you need in an ergonomic camera bag. Again we have the padded adjustable dividers, but there are also front-facing pockets to help it double up as a general-purpose messenger bag. There's an included rain cover too, but don't expect too many external straps - understandable as they would break the whole messenger bag look. There is, though, a clever hidden anti-theft pocket that's just the right size for your phone or wallet. Put your DSLR, spare lens and extras into one of these smartly designed bags and your shoots will take on a whole new, more casual feel.

This list wouldn't be complete without an absolute beast of an outdoor all-weather backpack. And it's no surprise that Lowepro is back on the list as they have a reputation for making these very well indeed. Not only is the build rugged enough to take a battering out in the wilderness but if you're flying to your destination, it's been designed to fit into overhead luggage. There are more attachment points and straps than you'll probably need and of course a huge amount of storage space. Importantly for a bag of this type, it's been built for comfort - so you can hike as far as you like and be ready to shoot when you get there.

Not too many camera bags come with a combination lock built-in and those that do often aren't worth using. The Neewer Pro Camera Backpack has been designed with security in mind, and that includes having access to the camera compartment via the back panel. The combination lock is neatly integrated too, so you can relax knowing that all of your precious gear is safe and sound on your back. With side pockets and straps a-plenty, you can really treat this as a travel companion just as much as a photographer's bag. A huge benefit is the anti-shock construction which, alongside waterproofing, will keep your lenses and the rest snug and secure. It looks great too and is another departure from the more utilitarian design to be seen in other backpacks.