16 Best Camera Bags, Slings, Straps, and Backpacks (2026), Tested and Reviewed

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The Best camera bag doesn't exist. I once spent two hours at B&H in New York City trying to fit all my photo gear inside more than 20 bags at the store, and I still left unsatisfied. Everyone's needs are different, and what works for me might not work for you. But to make your search easier, the camera enthusiasts on the WIRED Gear team have tested more than 100 bags to help whittle down the choices. We’ve shoved our equipment into slings, messenger bags, backpacks, and cubes—we've even gone bag-free—all in search of a convenient way to carry everything while keeping it protected and lightweight. These are our favorite picks.

Updated March 2026: We've added new camera bags from Hershel and WaterField Designs.

Cases for Your Filters and Memory Cards

What good is protecting your camera if your memory cards and filters get ruined? You won't be able to take the shot you want! I like these protective cases.

Wandrd Lens Filter Case for $44: I'm always so bad at packing my lens filters. Either I always leave them at home, or I bring the wrong one. When I do bring the right one, I've been so lazy that I've just tossed it into a crevice in my camera bag. Don't be like me! I love this hardshell EVA foam lens filter case. When you fill it up with four, it's a smidge thick, but much more protective than what I used to do. The interior sports a soft-touch lining to keep the glass safe.

Wandrd Memory Card Case for $34: This Wandrd case also uses a harder EVA foam shell to protect your precious memory cards. It's still slim but will take up more room in a backpack. You can fit eight memory cards and two SSDs.

Lowepro GearUp Memory Wallet for $45: Lowepro's version is a softshell case that will be easier to stow in a backpack, though it's a little less protective. It's made of up to 55 percent recycled fabric, and I also love the high-visibility orange interior.

Use a Tech Organizer

Tech organizers are for all those little bits and pieces that can easily get lost in the crevices of your backpack: a microfiber cloth, an SD card, and spare batteries.

Nanuk N-Cubik T3 Storage Pouch for $65: Nanuk's tech pouch will take up a bit of room in your backpack, but it's the sturdiest pouch on this list. The foam padding makes it almost like a hard case.

Peak Design Tech Pouch for $50: Peak Design's revamped Tech Pouch is my favorite way to store all the extra stuff I carry. There are plenty of pockets and some nice elastic accessory loops. The 400D recycled nylon is weatherproof with a nice, clean design.

Moment MTW Tech Organizer for $60: This bag will satisfy anyone who carries multiple spare batteries for various devices, several cables, and filters. The water-resistant 350-denier recycled nylon exterior has held up well.

Manfrotto Street Tech Organizer for $45: This one is flimsier, with a thinner synthetic fabric. It's roomy, with space for a large battery pack and wireless mics, but it's not as easy to neatly organize the gear.

Get a Camera Cube

If you already own bags you like, consider a packing cube (also called an “insert”) instead of springing for a new camera bag.

Peak Design Camera Cube V2 for $50: Peak Design redesigned its classic camera cube. It has good padding and customizable Velcro dividers, and the weatherproof zippered opening folds back enough for easy access.

Moment MTW Camera Insert for $60: Moment's insert is one of the smallest I've used; it's thin and won't take up much room in your bag. I like the bright red interior as it's super easy to see what's inside.

Lowepro GearUp Creator Box XL II for $67: The LowePro's orange liner makes things easier in the dark. You can fit a DSLR with two to three lenses in this 8-liter bag. The nylon material makes it decently water-resistant.

Wandrd Camera Cube for $74: This cube is better for backpacks with side access. It's made of 420-denier Robic nylon and has a weather-resistant coating. You get five thick dividers you can customize.

Evergoods Civic Access Pouch for $75: This fits all but my longest lens. The top zippered compartment holds stuff like cleaning tools, extra memory cards, and batteries. The Civic Access is well-padded.