Whether you’re on the go with a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you need a bag that makes it easy to access your gear. That’s where camera sling bags come in handy. They’re a hybrid of backpack and messenger bags that allow you to carry your kit hands-free but with super-fast access to it when you need it.
The best sling bags have a padded strap and shoulder sling that molds to your body, as well as a rain cover that keeps your gear protected from the elements when you need it. Some bags also feature dividers that keep your gear organized and separated, and some even have an additional compartment for non-photographic items like water bottles or tripods.
Most of the best sling bags for cameras have adjustable dividers that allow you to create different storage space for your camera and lenses, as well as other gear you may need to stow. For example, the Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L has two customizable flex-fold dividers to organize your gear and keep everything in its place. There’s even a padded sleeve built for an iPad, and an additional pocket for other devices or memory cards you might need to carry around.
Another great option is the Caden Camera Bag Sling Backpack, which features a separate section of breathable mesh padding with a hidden pocket for your phone and other personal items. The sling itself is adjustable to accommodate both left and right-handed users, and the back of the bag includes an anti-slip pad that helps reduce the possibility of accidentally dropping your equipment.
The LowePro Slingshot 202 is another great camera sling that combines lots of small elements to make a durable, functional and useful product. The main compartment uses a system of padded velcro dividers to create five separate sections for your camera body with lens attached, some smaller lenses (such as primes or pancakes), filters, and other essentials. The front flap opens up in two stages for quick access to the gear inside, and the material is water resistant so it’ll handle any inconvenient sprinkles that pop up on your adventures.
Some of the best sling bags for cameras offer rain covers that add an extra layer of protection when you need it most. Other features to look for include a padded strap, stabilizer straps, a tripod holder, and a dedicated tablet sleeve.
In our testing, we found that the most versatile sling bags have the ability to carry multiple camera bodies with lenses. If you’re a full-time photographer, this is important because it can help you take in more of the world.
If you’re a newbie to the world of photography, you might not need such a big sling bag for your gear. A compact sling that holds an everyday camera with a couple of lenses and a few accessories will fit most people’s needs.
For a professional, the best sling bag for cameras will be comfortable and allow you to quickly grab your gear from the back without removing it. It will also protect your equipment from scratches, theft, and other damage.