Best DSLR Camera Bag for Travel

Travel photographers know the importance of a proper camera bag to store all their precious gear. However, the search for the perfect camera bag for travel seems like a never-ending battle. However, there is one point that everybody agrees on and that is you can never settle on one camera bag that gets all the work done.

Keeping that in mind, here is our list of the best DSLR camera bags for travel in 2019.

1. Peak Design Everyday Messenger

Stats – 17x12x7 inches, 2.5lbs

The Peak Design Everyday Messenger is one camera bag that is designed by photographers for photographers. Every minor element of this bag has been carefully thought out and it deserves a special mention in this list.

Some of the advanced features of the bag include the MagLatch closure, a weatherproof expandable protective shell, an origami-inspired FlexFold divider, Anchor-link fastenings that attach to their quick release camera strap system and a hyper-adjusting internally padded seatbelt strap.

This DSLR bag is surprisingly huge enough to accommodate a surprisingly large amount of gear including a camera, three lenses, a laptop, a tripod and a range of other accessories depending on their space requirements.

2. Domke F2 Shoulder Camera Bag

 Stats – 17×6.75×9 inches, 3lbs

The Domke F2 is designed to carry 2 DSLR cameras effortlessly along with 6-10 lenses along with accessories. This camera bag is surprisingly handy, although, it has managed to stay under the radar for quite a while now.

The F2 is the perfect shoulder bag as it is big enough to carry a wide range of camera gear, but not too big to be unwieldly. Featuring close to 12 pockets, this camera bag is composed of a tough, compressible, breathable and waterproof canvas that stays close to your hips rather than bounding around.

The wide and robust strap is adjustable and goes under the bag for added structural strength. The presence of two adjustable pockets on the interior is sufficiently spaces to carry a wide variety of lenses that you might need at a moment’s notice.

The adjustable closures are a great addition that allows you to close the bag even when it is packed to the brim. The clip-style main closure is the only downside that requires a little bit more effort to secure tightly than a Velcro. On the upside, it is safer than Velcro!

3. Think Tank Retrospective 30

Stats – 16×10.5×7.5 inches, 3.8lbs

One of the most popular DSLR camera travel bags among photographers, the Retrospective 30 from Think Tank is large enough to carry two pro DSLR camera bodies with four lenses and 2 flash guns along with a plethora of smaller accessories.

The strap is comfortable on the shoulder and has a lot of grip, especially on trips where you need to carry it around the shoulder for an extended period. Retrospective is working on their range of products and has just launched a new color variant.

4. Tenba Messenger DNA 15

Stats – 16×11.5×9 inches, 3lbs

Not only is the DNA 15 highly recommended, it is easy on the eyes and composed on some of the most durable materials currently available. A majority of camera bags are often used to carry a photographer’s personal belongings, and the DNA 15 is designed exclusively keeping that in mind.

Although the exterior is designed to handle the most rugged on terrains, the interior tells a different tale. On the inside, the fabric is delicate and is sufficiently padded to protect all the delicate camera equipment and gear.

The Tenba Messenger DNA 15 is waterproof and the stitches on the corner are specifically crafted to aid waterproofing. To prevent the bag from sliding over the shoulder the strap connects to special D-rings on the bag, which keeps it anchored behind the person at all times.

This bag is designed to house a professional DSLR with 2-3 lenses while the rear is padded and can accommodate a 15-inch laptop with ease. There is a second sleeve to carry an iPad or a similar sized tablet.

5. Billingham Hadley Pro Shoulder Bag

Stats – 13.75×4.75×11 inches, 2.4lbs

Billingham is one of Britain’s most iconic camera bag manufacturers and the Hadley Pro Shoulder Bag is one their finest offerings. Designed with clean and elegant lines, this hand-finished leather bag with brass detailing with a shoulder strap with reinforced fiberglass and carry handle on top is designed to minimize stress on the shoulders.

This bag features a removable padded insert with fabric covered foam that protects your camera equipment from every side. While the primary flap is secured from the sides for additional weatherproofing and security.

The Hadley Pro is one of the lightest camera bags from Billingham and is perfect for carrying over one shoulder. The carrying capacity is quite large for its size and this bag can carry a DSLR with an attached lens, a flash along with several other accessories. If yuo use prime lenses, you might just be able to house two DSLRs with their lenses attached.

6. Filson Original Sportsman Camera Shoulder Bag

Stats – 16×10.5×8.5 inches, 4lbs

Filson is known for manufacturing some of the most durable outdoor goods for men and the Sportsman Camera Shoulder Bag is no exception to this rule. However, the company has an annoying habit of discontinuing their greatest products prematurely.

This bag is in stock the last time we checked, although, you should search for a dealer before finalizing your travel plans. Crafted out of 22oz rugged twill and 12.5oz cotton tin cloth, this bag can handle anything that the great outdoors has in store for it.

The bridle-leather handles with wrap-around snap grips offer a nice and comfortable grip. However, being rugged has its price and this one is among the heaviest camera bags on our list today.

If you do not mind the additional weight that you have to carry around on your shoulders, the Filson Original Sportsman Camera Shoulder Bag is a great option. Unfortunately, it is a major downside, which puts this great gear at the bottom of our list today.