How to Choose a Camera Bag: A Quick Answer
If you're searching for how to choose a camera bag, start with these four factors: the size of your current gear, your shooting environment, how long you carry the bag, and whether you need quick access to your camera. A compact mirrorless kit suits a slim shoulder bag or sling, while a full DSLR setup with multiple lenses calls for a dedicated backpack. Street photographers prioritise low-profile designs that don't advertise expensive gear, while hikers need padded straps and weather resistance. Match the bag to how and where you actually shoot - not just how much gear you own. The sections below break each decision down step by step.
How to Choose a Camera Bag: What You Need to Know First
Knowing how to choose a camera bag comes down to three core questions: what gear do you carry, where do you shoot, and how long are you on your feet? Before browsing styles, take stock of your current gear - body, lenses, batteries and accessories - and consider how your kit might grow. Choosing a bag with a little extra room now saves you buying again later.
It takes time and money to put together your camera kit, so it makes sense that you should put some consideration into choosing the right camera bag to protect it from harm. Beyond choosing the right bag, it's also worth exploring camera insurance options in Australia to ensure your gear is fully protected. A good camera bag is vital to keep your camera gear safe while travelling, as well as when it is stored away and not in use.
Find out how to choose the right camera bag for your mirrorless camera kit and photography style with our helpful guide to camera bags.
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How to choose the right camera bag for your camera
When choosing a camera bag, the first question you need to ask yourself is: how much do you need to carry? There are several factors that will ultimately decide which type of camera bag is the right one for you. You need to make sure that the style you choose meets your needs, and that is durable enough to last you a long time.
The most important consideration is what type of camera bag you want to carry. Are you looking for the best camera bag for your mirrorless camera? If you are looking for something that carries all of your mirrorless camera kit, including additional lenses, flashguns and accessories, a larger backpack may be in order. If, however, you only want to carry the essentials or you are heading away for the weekend, you may be able to get away with a compact travel camera bag.
What are the different types of camera bags?
Here is a rundown of the common types of camera bags and what gear each is best suited to.
Backpacks
Stylish camera backpacks are a great option if you need to take all or most of your favourite gear on the road with you, or for storing your gear safely at home. If you can't choose between the wide-angle lenses or telephoto lenses for your trip, a backpack has room to comfortably store both. You can also fit in your flashgun to improve your chances of getting better shots in low light conditions.
Gadget bags
Gadget bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they generally allow you to take a few of your favourite lenses with you, but not your full kit. If you are heading for a weekend away and you know you will take some landscape shots, but also some portraits of your family, a gadget bag will have room for your wide-angle lens and your prime lens attached to your camera body.
Sling bags
Sling bags are perfect for day trips and street shooting, as they allow you to access your gear quicker than gadget bags. When your gear is not in use, you can comfortably carry the bag at your side, while it can quickly be swivelled to the front of your body when the perfect shot comes along.
Messenger bags
Messenger bags are a good option for maintaining your stylish reputation while you photograph. The best camera messenger bags don't look like your typical camera bag, which is not only good for your image but can also avoid any unwanted attention that a stacked camera bag can bring.
Snoot bags
Snoot bags are the perfect compact travel camera bag. If you have a favourite camera and lens combo, or even an adventure camera, a snoot bag is the best way to keep that kit safe and secure when you head out for a hike or a day walking the streets of the city.
Extra considerations and features
Modern camera bags are typically made to a high standard, but there are still a few things you can look out for to make sure you find a bag that's suitable for your camera kit.
Size matters
See the How to Choose the Right Size Camera Case section below for the full breakdown of matching case size to your kit.
Is it waterproof?
To ensure your electronic equipment is safe from the rain or small splashes of water, you should ensure it is made from weather-resistant materials. For use in inclement weather, go one step further and select a camera bag that has an all-weather cover.
Don't forget the little things
Choosing a camera bag with compartments is great to store your favourite camera accessories. This includes smaller items, such as memory cards and batteries, which can usually be housed in small zippered pockets, and specific accessories that need a dedicated space, such as smaller tripods, laptops or tablets.
Where are you going with your camera bag?
See photography trip packing guide below for our full recommendations if you're travelling internationally.
Top tips for choosing the best camera bag
Here are a couple of extra tips for choosing the best camera bags:
- Read reviews to see how other photographers have got on with the bag - positive reviews can be a good indication of quality.
- Make sure the bag you choose has comfortable and supportive straps - camera equipment can be heavy and you want to protect your back and shoulders as much as possible.
- Choose a material that will be easy to keep clean - keep in mind that lighter fabrics will show colour transfer from denim, etc. more easily than darker colours.
Find the perfect camera bag today
If you're looking for a new camera bag, we have what you need at Ted's Cameras. We stock a range of camera bags from messenger bags to backpacks that can transport and protect your precious camera kit. Our stock is 100% Australian, with a 14-day exchange on all orders - in case you change your mind!
Curious about what gear to pack once you've chosen your bag? Planning a trip? See our 7 camera bag essentials for a New Zealand photography trip for a practical packing checklist. Check out what's in a photographer's camera bag in 2026 for inspiration.
How to Choose the Right Size Camera Case
Choosing the right size camera case is one of the most common challenges photographers face. A case that is too small risks damaging your gear, while one that is too large becomes cumbersome to carry. Start by measuring your largest item - typically your camera body with its biggest lens attached. Most manufacturers list internal dimensions, so compare these against your measurements before buying. As a general rule, allow at least 2-3 cm of padding clearance on all sides. If you carry a mirrorless body with two or three lenses, a medium-sized case or backpack (15-20L) is usually sufficient. For a full kit including a tripod, flash and accessories, consider a large backpack or rolling case. Always check the divider system - adjustable dividers let the case grow with your kit.
Best Camera Bag for International Travel
Finding the best camera bag for international travel means prioritising security, carry-on compliance and comfort over long distances. Look for a bag with TSA-friendly organisation, lockable zippers and RFID-blocking pockets for passports and cards. A weather-resistant exterior is essential for protecting gear across varied climates. For carry-on use, check airline size restrictions - most overhead-bin-friendly camera backpacks sit around 20-25L. A bag with a dedicated laptop sleeve doubles as your personal item on flights. Discreet styling is worth considering too; bags that do not look like camera bags attract less unwanted attention. Brands like Lowepro, Peak Design and Manfrotto offer travel-focused options that balance capacity with airline compliance, making them popular choices among travelling photographers.
How Do I Choose the Right Size Camera Case?
See the How to Choose the Right Size Camera Case section above for the full breakdown. If you're new to shooting on the streets, our street photography tips and techniques guide covers the best cameras, settings and approaches to get started.
