Best Camera Bags for Women: Stylish, Discrete, Affordable
Looking for a stylish and functional new women's camera bag? We tested over 50 of the latest bags that suit female needs to recommend the best to you.
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We tested over 50 of the best camera bags for women to reveal the most stylish, comfortable ways to carry your camera gear.
Obviously, women can use the same camera bags as men, but the backpacks, messengers and totes we tested are more stylish and ergonomically designed for females.
We appreciate that the term ‘camera bags for women’ may sound sexist, but the fact is, there are certain carry products that cater better to the needs and tastes of female photographers.
Compact, lightweight and great-looking, the Everyday ZIP carries a surprising amount of gear while providing quick and easy access.
Not every girl wants a camera bag disguised as a purse, but having a discrete way to carry heavy cameras and lenses while travelling is a definite plus.
Finding a stylish, cute, or affordable women’s camera bag is one thing, but as well as being aesthetically pleasing, it also needs to be functional.
With that said, let’s have a look at the top recommendations for stylish camera bags for women.
What are the Best Camera Bags for Women?
| Image | Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Peak Design Zip BEST EVERYDAY |
| Check PEAK DESIGN Price → Check AMAZON Price → |
 | Peak Design Totepack BEST TOTE |
| Check PEAK DESIGN Price → Check AMAZON Price → |
 | Brevité Jumper BEST SMALL BACKPACK |
| Check BREVITE Price → Check AMAZON Price → |
 | Shimoda Explore V2 BEST FOR HIKING |
| Check SHIMODA Price → Check AMAZON Price → |
 | Claremont Crossbody BEST CROSSBODY |
| Check LO & SONS Price → |
 | Peak Design TravelBEST FOR TRAVEL |
| Check PEAK DESIGN Price → Check AMAZON Price → |
 | The Lola By GattaBEST HANDBAG |
| Check GATTA Price → |
 | Jo Totes Bellbrook |
| Check B&H Price → |
 | Kelly Moore Pilot V2 |
| Check B&H Price → |
Peak Design Zip (20l) | Best Everyday ZIP Backpack for Women
Model Credit: Patricia Williams
- 4 attractive colors to choose from
- Dual expanding external side pockets, perfect for water bottles
- Water-resistant
- Vented mesh padding to prevent a sweaty back!
- Comfortable and easy to carry for long periods
- Doesn’t look like a camera bag
- Internal pockets can be too small in some cases
- Not as safe from theft as other bags for women on our list
Dimensions: 15″ x 10″ x 1″ | Weight: 3.42 lbs | Volume: 20 l | Colors: black, ash, midnight, bone | Peak Design Everyday Backpack ZIP Review
If you’re looking for a sleek and functional camera bag for your photographic needs, check out the Peak Design Everyday Backpack ZIP.
This stylish camera backpack includes plenty of features that make it a favorite among those looking for something that doesn’t resemble a camera bag, but does an amazing job carrying tons of camera equipment.
The Peak Design Everyday ZIP features a clean aesthetic that makes it as stylish as it is simple. The unique zip allows you to access every nook and cranny of the interior.
When it comes to storage, the Peak Design camera bag includes two internal FlexFold dividers that help you organize and customize the interior. You can even remove them all to utilise the entire internal space for carrying larger items or bulky clothing.
There are also three internal slip pockets, as well as dual external side pockets that expand to accommodate larger water bottles of tripods.
The 20L Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip fits a Canon 5D Mark III, tripod, and a lot more. Credit: Tommy Williams
The 20L Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip fits a Canon 5D Mark III, tripod, and a lot more. Credit: Tommy Williams[/caption]
The 20L Peak Design Everyday Backpack ZIP pictured above is perfect for carrying all manner of camera gear, but there’s also a 15L option if you find it too big.
The waterproof pockets and bottom liner complement the protective laptop compartment, keeping all your gear safe and secure.
In keeping with Peak Design’s pledge for environmental and social responsibility, the shell of the Zip is made from 100% recycled nylon canvas.
It also features a vented mesh back padding which is perfect for preventing the dreaded ‘map of Africa’ sweaty back! The shoulder straps are comfortable for carrying heavy loads for longer periods too.
This camera and lens backpack for women includes three padded grab handles as well as a quick-connect stowable sternum strap. This helps you keep your camera bag secure when walking for long periods, without fatigue setting in as quickly.
In addition to the custom organization features, you can also take advantage of the MagLatch closure hardware that keeps everything safe with a 270-degree durable #8 zipper.
Basically, this means that the zipper undoes the majority of the backpack, allowing you to access the top and sides for easy access – hence the ‘Zip’ name.
You can buy the Peak Design Everyday Backpack ZIP in black, ash, midnight, or bone color, in either 15L or 20L. My preference is bone, but as you can see from the photos above, ash also looks stylish too.
Peak Design Everyday Totepack | Best Camera Tote for Women
Credit: Arlene Briones
- Wide top allows ease of access
- Stretchy internal pockets perfect for odds and ends
- Dedicated laptop sleeves
- Magnetic closure is addictive!
- Can be too large for some females
- Limited color options to choose from
Dimensions: 15″ x 10″ x 1″ | Weight: 2.31 lbs | Volume: 20 l | Colors: bone, black | Peak Design Everyday Tote Review
As one of the most stylish camera bags on our list, the Peak Design Totepack is the perfect shoulder bag for any woman who enjoys a good old-fashioned tote. The perfect ladies’ camera bag that’s both stylish and functional.
Totes are traditionally used as a quick grab-and-go grocery bag, but they’ve definitely become more and more popular on the streets as a fashionable and convenient way to carry smaller items.
This tote bag from Peak Design may not be the small camera bag you’re looking for, but it certainly can hold multiple cameras at a time if necessary – take a look at the photo below to see what all you can stuff in it.
Credit: Arlene Briones
Bone and black are the two color options you’re limited to with the Peak Design Totepack – my preference is bone again, but black would work well in city environments too.
You can fit lots of camera accessories inside, thanks to the stretchy internal pockets and dedicated laptop compartment.
The Peak Design Totepack sports a clean look that makes it one of only a few cute camera bags for women that I’ve come across. Plus, the extra-wide top and padded straps allow for easy access and comfort.
A set of FlexFold dividers mount horizontally or vertically to help you organize your gear more efficiently. Plus, the dual stowable carry cinch straps make it easy to switch between carrying options.
Large pockets on this camera handbag are held together with a magnetic clasp or weatherproof zipper, or both. The magnetic clasp is great if you can’t be bothered to do the zip up completely, and is strangely addictive to fiddle with!
In addition, you can access the internal contents at any time via the quick-access points on either side of the bag.
Brevité Jumper Photo| Best Small Backpack for Women
- Variety of cute (and unusual) colors to choose from
- Lifetime warranty
- Great value (Cheap, but not in a bad way!)
- Winner of several awards from CNET, Forbes, Wired, etc.
- Dual tripod carry straps on bottom
- Doesn’t look like a camera bag at all
- Traditional school backpack look can be dull for some
- Not much in the way of back support
Dimensions: 16.25″ x 10.5″ x 5.5″ | Weight: 1.7 lbs | Volume: 18 l | Colors: lemon yellow, poppy red, powder teal, pine green, triple black, moonlit blue, boulder tan, misty blue, blush pink, nimbus gray, charcoal gray | Brevite Jumper Review
There are many camera bags for women on the market right now, but not many that offer so many cute color options as this one.
If you’re looking for camera bags that have as much variety as you and your photographs do, the Brevité Jumper may just be your new best friend… and it’s really affordable too!
Resembling more of a traditional school bag than a camera bag, the Jumper has simple, minimalist styling that slips under the radar as a bag that could be carrying lots of expensive camera gear.
This weather-resistant and machine washable camera backpack has won several awards from CNET, Wired, IndieWire, and Forbes as one of the most stylish camera bags for women.
It remains small and compact, while at the same time, there are many small accessories you can fit inside – see the photo below:
Credit: Greg Cromie
There’s a separate laptop compartment, as well as a quick access pocket on the side. You can also use the large pocket or place smaller objects within the shorter front pocket in front of it.
Dividers are included and help you to keep everything in its place. You can place the 5 dividers in multiple configurations to get the best one for your needs.
Additional features include hidden pockets for valuables, a luggage pass-through, a passport pocket, and a dual tripod strap on the bottom… which I guess could also be used to carry a yoga mat too, if you’re that way inclined!
The material is lovely to touch, but it does feel like it could wear after a few years of use. However, you do get a lifetime warranty on your purchase, so nothing to worry about there.
Shimoda Explore V2 | Best Women’s Hiking Backpack
- Really comfortable to carry
- Swappable shoulder straps to suit female physique
- Weatherproof zippers
- Anti-theft rear access
- Deployable tripod/water bottle holders
- Convenient sunglasses & phone shoulder strap pockets
- More camera backpack than a stylish camera bag
- Bit big for smaller ladies
Dimensions: 11.6″ x 20.3″ x 6.7″ | Weight: 3.6 lbs | Volume: 35 l | Colors: blue nights, sea pine, army green, black | Shimoda Explore Backpack Review
For photographers needing to lug around a lot of gear while hiking or mountaineering, the Shimoda Explore V2 is one of the best camera bags for women who aren’t afraid to get dirty.
It’s definitely not something you’d consider stylish or cute, but on the flip side, it’s functional, rugged and amazingly comfortable to carry. It also has some neat features that the other camera bags for women on our list do not.
As you can see from the picture (35L version), there are plenty of compartments and discreet pockets to choose from, including my absolute fave – the zippable pouches on the shoulder straps.
I wish every backpack had these – being able to pull out your phone, sunglasses, suncream, memory cards, batteries etc without taking your bag off your back is so convenient.
This backpack has a ton of zippered pockets, straps and pouches that allow you to easily access your gear, so you don’t have to fiddle around too much and miss the perfect opportunity.
My favorite feature: strap pockets for phone, sunglasses or even easy-to-reach cosmetic items!
Even if you’re just carrying around a small camera, the Shimoda Explore V2 is still useful since the bag itself is lightweight and has 3-4 size options (25, 30 and 35L).
In addition to the size options, you can also take advantage of the unique swappable shoulder straps, with 3-4 inches of vertical adjustment to suit any size back.
The padded belt comes in handy to distribute the weight to your hips when you’re carrying a lot of heavy gear, and you can even remove it completely for a clean look.
The Shimoda Explore V2 also features anti-theft rear access, meaning it opens to your back if you were to wear it. This helps keep thieves from opening the zipper and stealing what’s inside without your knowledge.
The Core Unit modular system helps you organize your interior depending on what gear you want to carry.
Overall, the Explore is a feature-packed bag tgat’s ready for any adventure you throw at it.
Claremont Crossbody by Lo & Sons | Best Crossbody Camera Bag for Women
Credit: Claremont
- Built-in SD card holders
- Quilted interior with internal padding
- Adjustable sternum strap length
- Won’t fit larger zoom lenses
- Handbag styling not to every girl’s taste
Dimensions: 10.5″ x 5.5″ x 8.5″ | Weight: 1.5 lbs | Volume: 8 l | Colors: black, deep navy, sienna, light grey
Reviewed by Elle, Huffpost, and Lucky, the Claremont Crossbody by Lo & Sons messenger bag is one of the most stylish camera bags for women if you’re into the whole ‘camera bag that looks like a handbag’ thing.
It’s available in various colors and spoprts a full-leather exterior. The quilted interior features internal padding made from 100% polyester. Plus, you can adjust the strap length.
Despite being small, the Claremont Crossbody by Lo & Sons actually fits most DSLR and mirrorless cameras as well as a lens or flash or two, but obviously not flagship camera bodies or superzoom lenses.
It also includes a discreet back pocket for extra security. However, you need to weigh up the pros and cons of having a camera bag that looks like a purs, which may actually attract more of the wrong kind of attention, especially while traveling.
You can store multiple SD cards in the interior pockets and there’s a hanging SD memory card holder as well for quick access.
The Claremont Crossbody definitely satisfies the more fashion-conscious females but admittedly won’t be for everyone. Personally, I appreciate how attractive it looks, and how it couldn’t look any further from a regular camera bag.
Peak Design Travel Backpack| Best for Travel
- Lifetime guarantee
- 100% carbon neutral
- Fits under airline seats
- Weatherproof
- Sleek and minimal styling
- Expandable side pockets for tripod or water bottle
- No back padding or ventilation in straps
- Lack of quick access to the large interior pocket
Dimensions: 20.9″ x 13.4″ x 5.5″ | Weight: 3.17 lbs | Volume: 30 l | Colors: black, sage, midnight | Peak Design Travel Backpack Review
Though Peak Design offers the Travel Backpack in a 45L version, the 30L version graces our list for the lighter load it puts on the wearer. Although 15L smaller, it’s plenty big enough to hold lots of photo accessories and then some.
The Travel Backpack features an oversized top opening that closes with a #10 Ultrazip zipper – this probably means nothing to you (it didn’t to me!), but basically, you can expect buttery-smooth opening and closing every time.
The side pockets of this Peak Design backpack also expand to even the bigger style water bottles. You can slide a Peak Design Tripod in there too, but anything bulkier and it doesn’t feel too secure.
One of the best features that helps to keep your camera safe while traveling is the rear hatch opens to your back rather than to the front of the backpack. There are also internal mesh zippered pockets for keeping small items secure as well.
Even the 45L version still fits under airline seats for easy traveling, but you obviously have to be mindful of the weight if you want to go carry-on only. My preference is definitely the 30L (shown in the picture above.)
The tight nylon outer means that it’s actually a waterproof camera bag, ready for even the heaviest downpour.
It comes with padded shoulder straps and axial strap attachments, meaning it’ll fit even the most petite photographer. It also includes a lifetime guarantee that protects your investment.
The Lola By Gatta | Best Purse Camera Bag
- Full-leather camera purse bag
- Lightweight and stylish
- Quick-access outer pocket
- Large enough to fit most DSLR camera bodies
- Not ideal for multiple accessories
- Limited colors available
Dimensions: 10″ x 7″ x 5″ | Weight: 1.7 lbs | Volume: 5.7 l | Colors: noir, miel (black and honey)
The Lola by Gatta leather camera purse bag is available in noir and miel, or black and honey for our non-French speaking friends!
Much smaller than a traditional messenger bag, this lightweight yet elegant camera purse is one of the more stylish bags you’ll find on our list.
With a fully padded interior, the Lola by Gatta works well for a short trip around town or as something to carry your camera for you as you sightsee.
There’s an adjustable divider you can use in the interior to make room for your DSLR camera and/or additional lenses, but you obviously need to be mindful of what you carry.
You can also make use of the camera bag purse’s outside pocket if you need quick access to certain objects, such as your smartphone or a spare filter.
I can see that some female photographers might prefer the Lola by Gatta to a larger messenger bag for a quick grab-n-go. However, it won’t be suitable for longer photo shoots or any time you want to look a bit profesh!!
Taz and Tez | Modular Shoulder Camera Bag
Credit: Sarah Lauren
- Stylish and understated
- Doesn’t look like a camera bag
- Well made
- Sponsors Australian Koala Foundation
- Removable internal camera caddy
- Tight for larger DSLRs and telephoto lenses
Dimensions: 13.5” x 8” x 5” | Weight: 2.05 lbs | Volume: 8 l | Colors: black, tan |
Tara and Tessa (Taz & Tez) are sisters who were disheartened by the poor camera bags for women on the market.
Apparently, nothing accommodated their style while protecting expensive gear… so they launched their own range.
The Bobbi is a stylish, PETA-approved premium Vegan Leather shoulder bag that features a removable ‘caddy’ for a camera and two small lenses or accessories.
The caddy is padded and lets you rearrange the 3 removable dividing strips to suit your equipment.
You can even slide it out completely to be able to use the Bobbi as a daily shoulder bag.
The flap features magnetic closures, which allow you to get your camera in and out easily.
The material is luxuriously soft and feels like it will patina well over time.
Available in black and tan, each purchase of a Bobbi helps support the ongoing costs of a koala (of the same name) at the Australian Koala Foundation.
Jo Totes Bellbrook | Discrete Camera Backpack for Women
- Water-resistant
- Hipster styling is very cool
- Padded base protects your gear
- Breathable mesh backing
- Multiple dividers in various sizes
- Squarish design can throw some women off
- Weight not as balanced as others
Dimensions: 15.75″ x 12″ x 6.25″ | Weight: 3 lbs | Volume: 19 l | Colors: black, olive | Jo Totes Bellbrook Review
This square-shaped camera backpack is a favorite among female photographers who want to look as stylish as they do professional. It’s a definite hit with any hipsters out there, with a distinct retro-vibe to it.
Though nearly as large as a messenger bag, the Bellbrook is water resistant and acts as an all-in-one solution so you can pack in all your gear.
The breathable mesh backing helps you wear it longer if necessary, and the padded backpack base makes it easy to set your camera gear down gently when you arrive.
The back is padded for comfortable long-term wear as well. Plus, the straps are thinly padded to give your shoulders a break without looking too bulky.
Credit: Meg Loeks
The Bellbrook can easily go from a photo shoot to the mall or even travel with you as well – remove the internal dividers to make it into a regular backpack that doesn’t look at all like a traditional ugly camera bag.
A zippered pocket up front keeps everything safe yet accessible, while the brushed nylon interior fabric provides a soft surface for your accessories to move around in.
With a laptop sleeve and seven padded dividers in two sizes, there’s a lot to love about the Jo Totes Bellbrook camera backpack.
Kelly Moore Pilot V2 | Stylish Women’s Camera Backpack
Credit: Kelly Moore
- Internal padding
- Handy SD card storage
- Adjustable strap length
- Fits a lot of gear
- Looks great!
- Top closure not as secure
- No loops for holding a tripod on the bottom of the bag
Dimensions: 13″ x 11.5″ x 17″ | Weight: 4.3 lbs | Volume: 42 l | Colors: olive, natural
The Kelly Moore Pilot V2 is one of the more stylish camera bags on our list – definitely one of my faves when I don’t want to stand out as a photographer.
Many female photographers choose Kelly Moore bags because they effortlessly blend camera bags for women with style. As far as camera bags for women go, Kelly Moore is one of the more well-known.
Features of the Pilot V2 include an interior padded laptop sleeve, magnetic closure, and adjustable padded straps. The front compartment also includes attachment loops, tripod straps, and organizer pockets.
The full-grain leather accents used on the Pilot elevates the style that much more and complemnents great with the olive canvas. Plus, a leather camera bag can also provide you with the durability you need to last a lifetime.
How to Choose Stylish Camera Bags for Women
A selection of the women’s camera bags we tested.
In order to keep this roundup of the best camera bags for women reasonably concise, we adhered to the criteria below, which should help you choose the right product for your needs:
- Construction/Durability – the best bags need to be rugged and well-built to last your lifetime as a professional or amateur female photographer.
- Looks – as photographers, we are conscious of the way things look. It’s hard to do female camera bag reviews without favoring the stylish ones over those that are dull/boring. This is, again, a very subjective factor, but nonetheless important.
- Design – will the bag function well for its purpose? Is it just a women’s handbag with a camera insert, for example, or has it been designed from the start as a camera bag?
- Value for Money – ‘Cost’ is obviously a large deciding factor for many. However, since everyone’s budget is different, we chose to concentrate more on whether the bag represents good value for money as opposed to trying to label it ‘affordable’, which is also subjective. An expensive leather camera backpack may actually be good value when you take into account the quality of the workmanship, for example.
In this roundup, we included a mixture of women’s camera bags that were released recently and others that have stood the test of time since their release several years ago.
Final Words
As mentioned at the start of the article, ‘camera bags for women’ is a rather uncomfortable title. However, in order to satisfy what you ladies are actually Googling, we needed to name it like this!
You’ll see in the comments below that there’s an equal number of angry (female) photographers as there are happy ones. I guess we hit a nerve with some of you, but with all else considered, I hope you found the bag you want.
If you have any other recommendations for camera bags that look great on women and function as intended, leave us a note below. Happy shooting!
Compact, lightweight and great-looking, the Everyday ZIP carries a surprising amount of gear while providing quick and easy access.
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On a budget? Need a bag that doesn’t scream “STEAL MY CAMERA”? I picked up a “last year’s style” Baggallini large hobo bag ($39 at a discount chain, lightweight and water resistant with several handy pockets), bought a DSLR sleeve with movable compartments off Amazon ($15) and it fits a DSLR with one lens on, a second lens, spare battery, speed light, mini flashlight, shutter remote, and I still have room in the purse pockets for purse stuff. When I fly with it, the whole bag goes inside my backpack (counting as under-seat personal item).
Maybe not for everyone, but it works very well for me.
I’ve been desperately searching for a decent camera bag to use for work, one that I could be comfortable walking around the city with, without looking like I’m obviously carrying,
I thought my dreams had come true with the Alice and as a fellow Aussie I was even more excited to be able to support a local company..,
I never clicked a link so fast in my life.
Imagine the soul crushing despair when I discovered that this list isn’t really updated for 2022… because if it was Lei Momi wouldn’t get a mention. Going by their Facebook and website they’ve been out of action since early 2019 😭😭😭
If anyone has a second hand Lei Momi Alice bag they want to sell hit me up. I’d even take red one ( I hate the colour red 😂)
Sorry about that, Peta – we’ve been meaning to update this article but to be honest, a few of the brands have been totally unresponsive when we reached out to them. Must be tough times for bag makers in the current climate.
You did not review the Kamrette bags! Those look beautiful and need more reviews outside of their website.
They’ve been on my radar, Nora – will have to reach out to them for a sample!
I’m actually bothered by your recommendations. Can they be more sexist? All bags looks like purses, or shoulder bags. The only one that remotely approaches the needs of a real female photographer, which apparently bag makers don’t think exist, is the F-stop. The rest are girly looking like that’s all women are about.
There are badass women photographers out there, and none of the camera bag companies think of them. Ever.
Thank you! I’m glad someone noticed how bad this “review’ is. I was very disappointed with this review. Except for the f-stop bag, these are all city bags for Instagram influencers. I can’t imagine myself hiking down a trail with most of these.
M Hughes and RRambal , your replies are pretty patronising in themselves. Not every photographer hikes down a trail. Does that reduce us in your eyes to ‘instagram influencers’? How slighting of you to say so. Some of us like to carry our camera with us every day, not just when we’re out on ‘the trail’ and therefore need to carry other things too. Some of us also don’t like backpacks. Some of us like our bag NOT to look like a rucksack or a briefcase or a fishing bag. Some of us are different to you. We’re no less valid, even if you think we’re too ‘girly’.
Mark, thanks for this list – and to others who’ve commented with other recommendations. The search for the perfect bag is a bit like looking for the holy grail but this is a real help. :-)
I appreciate that, Flora! I’ve often questioned whether or not to change the title of this article, or delete it altogether, since it attracts so much criticism and negativity. However, it’s comments like yours and my hopes that all the other people that it’s helped are remaining quiet that stop me from doing so!! PS. I agree that the search for the perfect bag is never-ending!!
When 99% of the list is useful to one general type of photographer it lets the rest of us know that we aren’t as important or as female as the other type. It is very non-inclusive. Change the title if the list and it becomes more accurate and then I won’t have a problem with it. I came back to see if the precipitation of what female photographers looks like had been changed but I guess that is asking for too much.
Agreed! I found hundreds upon hundreds of stylish and completely unisex(if needs be), durable, waterproof options readily available for women across the internet. Etsy will have many folks covered easily! What I couldn’t find, and have spent over 5 hours until now trying my very hardest to find with zero help from google (why do designer sites list those tiny purses on chains as ‘camera bags?! Argh!) was a camera bag that I could take out and fit my camera, lenses and accessories in *safely*, that would look like a normal bag, would suit my everyday needs and style, that I could take to work with me, and that I might be even be able head out to a nice dinner with afterwards with after a long day.
We all have different tastes, and it’s a really strange angle to come to one article out of millions and yell at somebody that’s obviously put the effort in to help folks out for not catering to you specifically – it’s reminiscent of going into a restaurant and yelling at the cook for not having your favourite meal!
At any rate, thanks so much for your help, Mark! I was really at my wits end. Now, to FINALLY make a purchase!
P.S. The title needn’t be changed if you don’t want to change it, I think it was the only good thing Google actually ended up doing for me during this search, haha. So in retrospect, technically they helped a little!
haha thanks Annabelle – yes, I agree that the title doesn’t sound the best in this day and age but it serves a purpose with regards to Google searches.
This article was exactly what I was looking for (I know this is way later than this comment or article) but if I am looking for “hiking camera bags” or “travel camera bags” I’m going to Google search that, but I didn’t I literally searched “best camera bags for women” in hopes to find nice leather hand bag totes to take on vacation with me to Italy. I am most definitely not an influencer, just want a small nice bag to bring my camera and one lens instead of my large professional camera bag.
If you want “best camera bags to taking hiking” there are plenty of reviews out there for those, smh doesn’t make this one sexist. So PLEASE Mark don’t delete this! This gave me great ideas even years later!!
So happy to hear that, Lyn! We’re actually in the middle of redoing the whole article with some new brands and models, so stay tuned :)
Great resource. Thank you for doing this. Unlike Heidy, I used a simple google search and found everything. I noticed the title is “Best Bags…2021”, but these comments go back to 2017. Are there new bags out there?
Thanks Dana – we’re in the process of reaching out to these brands so they can get us newer products and we can update the links. Watch this space :-)
I came across this page and thought it was a beam of hope. None of these links, work. I completely wasted my time.
We’ll make sure the links are fixed this month, Heidy!
it’s not a waste, the brands exist, you just have to do a little more leg work. The information provided was great. Thank you Mark!
Thanks for your kind comment, Carol!
Great article! A lot of the links lead to dead pages. Can you make an updated review?
argh that’s the difficulty of these round up reviews – brands change products/links without telling us. Thanks for letting me know, Darlene, I’ll try and fix them soon.
Kelly Moore didn’t respond to me about an issue with a bag I bought from them from B and H. The threads in the handles started to unravel only 3 months using it. Poor customer service. Hope that they improve because their bags look nice.
Great Post! Searching for a new bag and this was really helpful. Thanks!
So glad to hear it Mel! Let us know which one you settled on :-)
Okay, thank you.
Hi Mark,
I had previously contacted you regarding a backpack style bag for a smaller-ish woman, as most don’t fit quite rigt for me. I have the Peak Design both 20 & 30 L, The F-Stop Kashmir, Gura Gear Kiboku and probably between my husband and myself about 20 more bags. It’s insanity. Just wanted to point out my newest bag, which at the moment is working well. I picked up an Atlas Athlete backpack. The advantage for me is the frame comes in either a medium (up to 5’8″ tall) or a large frame which is 5’7 and up. In addition the belt is available in 3 sizes. It has a rear access, which I like for travel, computer area, water bladder pocket ect. If you haven’t looked at it, it might be worth checking out. https://atlaspacks.com/collections/atlas-packs/products/atlas-athlete-camera-pack#
Have a great day!
Thanks, Chris
Thank you for in depth reviews they are very informative and helpful in making a decision.
I was looking for a smaller bag to carry on vacation and am very interested in the Jill-e Designs Small Leather Camera Bag. However, Amazon is sold out and all the links I have found to Jill-E are dead. I am just wondering if you might know of where this bag may be available for purchase?
Hey Cindy, I’m not actually sure when Jll-e will be stocking that one again, but it might be worth getting in touch with them to ask – let me know how you get on.
Strange, how a male reporter is supposed to know all about women’s camera bags. Why not get a woman to write the article from a women’s perspective.
The models used in the shoot helped me with that, Arlette. Despite your comment, did you find the article useful at all?
Hey Mark!
I’m a camera bag junkie and have a TON of them, and am disappointed to not see any with some fun colors in this post. I realize this is also a manufacturer choice though, as the industry has gone more to the muted colors. House of Flynn has several in fun prints, although I don’t love HOF for several reasons. Some of us want some color in our lives, instead of brown or black! ;) I found your link while looking for a new bag. Not that I really NEED one, but I need one that is a little smaller, which is another category that hasn’t been easy to find!
Ah yes, the search for the perfect camera bag is an endless one, Brooke! I actually contacted Coraline from HOF back in January, but they weren’t able to supply us one of their Vintage Brown Everyday Bags for review unfortunately :-( Not that it’s particularly colourful!! Let me know what you end up deciding on.
Hey Mark, have you heard of the purse camera bags by British designer Mooli at all – http://www.moolilondon.com? Cheers, Sara
Hey Sarah, no I hadn’t heard of them before – are you a fan? They look great!
You missed one of the absolutely best camera bags on existence The House of Flynn. Hands-down the beat quality and most gorgeous bags for today’s photographer.
Ah that Everyday bag looks great Amanda – do you work for HOF? I’d love to get my hands on one to review…
Hi, love Figbags from the UK. Great article
Thanks for the tip, Krystina! Always happy to support my home country :-)
May I also recommend GATTA Bags? They are super stylish camera bags. They look more like fashion bags than camera bags which I love: gattabag.com
Thanks for the tip Diana!
Mark, thank you for all the research done, some of the companies are well known, some are discovery for me!
Unlike some commenters, for me as a female wedding photographer style does matter, as I dress on a wedding day to look like a modest guest, not stand out as a photographer, so carrying a stylish bag for me personally is high on the priority list. Speaking of stylish and functional bags, you are definitely missing one European brand of amazing camera bags –
http://www.pompidoo.com
I personally have three of their bags, and anxious to get a least few more in due time, because they fit different occasions so perfectly – I use my Pompidoo Cologne and Palermo bags for weddings to have Nikon gear essentials on me, also for portrait sessions. In turn Pompidoo Lima bag is my travel companion, housing compact Fujifilm gear. One could say Pompidoo bags are a bit pricey, but that European handmade quality, exceptional leathers that just don’t wear down even after years of use, and fashionable style in additional to functionality and safety are worth every penny! They ship worldwide :)
Ah thanks so much for the words of encouragement, Kristine! I discussed the title of this post with my wife after having so many negative comments (I assume as it sounds in some way… sexist?), but she couldn’t see any problem with it, so I left it!
Pompidoo has been on my radar since I wrote this article actually, but it’s good to hear some first hand feedback on their bags. I’ll definitely reach out to them when I update this. Cheers!
Keep up the good work and focus on the positive things! I sometimes wonder why people even bother writing negative comments, one can choose to read or just ignore information not useful to them. I mean you put so much time and effort into research… I don’t love every single bag on this list, but value the market information you have collected and some of it may be useful for my professional photographer matters. So thank you!
Thanks again Kristine – very kind of you to take the time to leave two comments :-)
Hi Mark, Peak Design make a great Tote that can double as a backpack… I use the tote as an everyday bag in the ash colour and also have their new 5L sling. I love them, I cant fault their quality & design by far my favourite bags!!
Hey Rachel! Yeah I’m familiar with that Tote and a big fan of PD’s bags in general. The Tote is actually the only bag of theirs that I’ve never handled, hence not including it here. Thanks for the tip though – I may reach out to them for possible inclusion in this roundup too.
Can I make a recommendation for you to check out also:
https://porteengear.com/
I have a number of them and you can borrow them for review. Not many bells and whistles but I love the look and feel, and a good size for what I carry. Cheers
They look nice, Kevin! Thanks for sharing
Seriously. Who cares about stylish? It’s about getting a good fit when one has gear that weighs a tonne. Please post reviews of gear that works for a back/body frame that is smaller than the average man…i.e. a woman’s frame. I find it hard to believe that women’s camera bags are marketed based on style…I had really hoped we’d be beyond this by now.
Well, a lot of women care about style T, just as myself and a lot of other men care about style too. This post wasn’t meant to come across negatively (or sexist?!) in any way – my apologies if it did! I’m just trying to showcase a selection of bags that are both stylish and functional for female photographers. There are plenty of other bags here: https://shotkit.com/best-camera-bags/ I hope you find one that suits your frame!
Oh come on. This post was written for women who want a stylish and functional camera bag. If that’s not you-then go read another article about functional and utilitarian bags.
Great article! I am a female in search of a stylish and functional bag and found this article informative and interesting. Thanks!
Great! Thanks so much for the support, Kelly :-)
Seriously, it’s hard enough to find cute, stylish bags without people having to rag on those of us who are looking for them. I for one do not always like to look around like I am carrying thousands of dollars of camera gear while I’m traveling.
Thanks Britt! Nice to have some support :-)
I actually find there isn’t enough info about women’s camera bags with a stylish look. Thanks to this brilliant article, I can now further research some brands which may fit my needs. I’m looking for a camera bag that looks like a handbag (one reason; so it hides the fact I’m carrying expensive gear around) and I can carry my purse, phone, umbrella, lipstick etc in as well. I hate carrying multiple bags!
Hi Chris,
I’ve been using the F-Stop Gear Kashmir UL for a couple of years already and I always take it with me when travelling overseas or just around sydney. I absolutely love it! Super light, great for small frames and full of details that make you happy. If you can, give it a try, it’s not bulky.
It would be nice to find a serious women’s camera backpack that could carry my mirrorless camera, 1 long lens, a flash, 2 small lenses and a small amount of equipment (tripod, batteries, ect.) and fit my smaller frame that I could carry about 15 miles in a day, which means that I would want a good belt, frame and harness. I think 24-25 Liter would be fine. I am currently trying out the F-Stop GuruXL 25 L .
I already own a 22L Peak Design Backpack, and the Peak design Everyday messenger bag, both which are well thought out for storage, but are agonizing to trek more than a mile or two with. I also own a Lowepro Photo Sport 200, which I like, but for a long day, lacks a frame and adequate belt & harness. I have a Guru Gear Kibokus in both 26 and 30L, several Osprey and Gregory backpacks and have bought and sold or returned many others. I really don’t want anything that resembles a purse. Any suggestions ? I’m about 5’6″ and < 120Lbs, which means that quite often I can't cinch the straps in quite enough to carry the bags correctly.. Thanks! I appreciate any suggestions!
I’ll leave this one open in the comments to other ladies who may know a good backpack for you, Chris. The ones that you own I’ve tried before and are great, but I appreciate they’re not right for you. Have you tried any by F-Stop Gear? They’re better for hiking than the others you own.
Thanks Mark!
I am currently trying out the F-Stop Guru XL, which looks like it could be a good option. The bag itself is super light to begin with. I previously had their Loka bag, but it was too big and heavy when loaded up. (and it was stolen- so bummer). The Kashmir bag – which is designed for women or people with a smaller frame, is interesting, but I don’t really want to go bigger than 25L in size.
Was lucky enough to discover your page when researching mirror less cameras (yes, I have purchased the Fuji XT20) to be my travel companion for a trip to Venice. Am enjoying receiving your newsletter; no waffle, all relevant and great for ‘beginners’ like me. Thanks ever so!
So glad to hear that, Maggie! Please spread the word, and I hope you stick around ;-)
Thank you for your hard work in putting this together. It was very helpfull.