Finding the best camera bags for women can be tricky. As a female travel and street photographer, I want a stylish, functional, and spacious bag to fit all my photography gear. It must be comfortable to wear, even when it’s full.
Photography has been a huge part of my life since college. I enjoy travelling and walking the streets with my camera bag. I tried out many bags, and I’ve had both good and bad ones. Luckily, having some great camera bags has made my photography experience more enjoyable.
Over the years, I found the Kelly Moore Pilot Backpack is the best camera bag for women photographers. It is stylish, comfortable to wear, and has plenty of room for all my gear – with space to spare!
While I found what works for me, the needs of others will likely be different. Therefore, I’ll share my top 14 picks for the best camera bag options based on my experience. From stylish camera backpacks to chic shoulder bags, crossbody bags and sling bags, there’s something here for everyone.
To ensure everyone’s getting the most bang for their buck, I’ve included a mix of high-end and budget-friendly options.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur shutterbug, read on for the 14 best camera bags for women.
List of 14 Best Camera Bags for Women
Below is my list of the 14 most stylish camera bags for women based on preferences of size, budget, style, material, and more.
- Overall Best Camera Bag for Women – Kelly Moore Pilot Backpack
- Best Premium Lightweight Bag – Kelly Moore Kate Messenger Bag
- Best Multifunctional Bag – Kelly Moore Luna
- Best Purse Style Case – Compagnon Unique Camera and Laptop Bag
- Best Understated Option – Compagnon The Backpack 2.0
- Best for Budget-Friendly Storage – Jo Totes Bellbrook Camera and Laptop Backpack
- Best Versatile Mid-Size Bag – Jo Totes Gracie Camera Bag
- Best Mini Bag for a Cause – The Mini TOG Bag
- Best for Extra Equipment – The Full-Size Tog Bag
- Best Leather Bag – Think Tank Photo Lily Deanne Mezzo
- Best Budget-Friendly Bag – The Christie Bag By Gatta
- Best Bag for the Style Conscience – Lola Noir Crossbody by Gatta
- Best Everyday Canvas Bag – Peak Design Everyday Totepack
- Best Camera Backpack for All Conditions – Peak Design Everyday Backpack
Best Camera Bags for Women: Mini-Reviews
The best camera bags for women photographers will depend on the specific needs and preferences. A comfortable, convenient (and, let’s be honest), trendy bag will keep all your gear safe and secure, whether you’re an amateur or professional photographer.
From small SD cards to extra batteries and even large tripods, you need a durable and stylish bag that protects your gear and matches your style and taste.
Below is my list of the 14 best stylish camera bags for women, based on my experience as a professional photographer. Let’s get started!
1. Best Overall Camera Bag for Women: Kelly Moore Pilot Backpack
I recommend the Kelly Moore Pilot Backpack for a travel, street or landscape photographer who’s looking for a functional bag that can double as a stylish everyday bag.
I love this bag has plenty of room for all the necessary camera equipment. My favorite compartments and pockets includes:
- A larger front pocket that can hold a camera body and a couple of lenses
- A padded laptop compartment that can hold a laptop up to a 15”
- Several side pockets for small accessories like memory cards, batteries, etc.
Thanks to its roomy interior, I can easily add or remove padding and dividers to suit my needs. With the adjustable straps, I feel comfortable to wear this bag when capturing daily life on the streets.
Speaking of daily use, I love using this bag for school or day trips such as hiking, camping, etc. The sleek and stylish design makes it perfect for everyday use.
A versatile backpack with various features is essential, and the Kelly Moore Pilot Backpack does not disappoint. Among its various features, my favorites include:
- A water-resistant and durable bottom
- A built-in rain cover
- Side pockets, ideal for holding a mobile phone, wallet, or other small items
- Padded backpack straps and a top handle for easy carrying
- Premium full grain leather that can resistant to wear and tear
The bottom line:
The bag is comfortable to wear, thanks to its padded straps and back panel. Besides travel, you can use this bag for a variety of purposes, such as: street photography, everyday use, business or school, or day trips.
2. Best Premium Lightweight Bag: Kelly Moore Kate Messenger Bag
Lightweight camera bags are convenient and more comfortable to carry around. The Kelly Moore Kate is one of the best travel camera bags for women who love to travel light. If you’re looking for a casual option to take your camera on the go, consider the Kelly Moore Kate camera bag.
This bag is perfect for carrying a DSLR camera, an extra lens, an up to 13″ laptop or tablet, and a few other small items. It is made from high-quality canvas, padded nylon and leather and comes in various colors to match your style.
One of the top features I love about this bag is it looks like a stylish purse with its side strap rather than a camera bag. This look means I can take it anywhere without feeling out of place. The bag is also large enough to fit all the essential gear yet small enough to carry comfortably.
Other features of this premium bag include:
- Padded dividers
- Zippered pocket for storage
- Magnetic snaps and brass buckle closure
The bottom line:
Kelly Moore Kate is an excellent lightweight bag for women. Not only is it stylish, but it is lightweight and versatile in design – all of which are great attributes.
3. Best Multifunctional Bag: Kelly Moore Luna 3.0
Multifunctional camera bags are not only convenient but also help photographers save space. Kelly Moore Luna bag is not designed to be a multifunctional camera bag but it performs well. This stylish bag is a fashionable accessory for photographers. When you see the bag, you’ll immediately know whether it’s for you.
I love that the Luna bag has a removable padded basket, compartments and interior pockets, making it easy to organize my gear. Plus this water-resistant bag is comfortable to wear, even when I load it down with all my gear.
In terms of cleaning, if you’re a parent on the go, you will appreciate the easy-to-clean vegan material. With that, you won’t worry about stains!
Versatility is the name of the game with the Luna bag. It comes with several straps. With that, I can wear it as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or backpack. No matter how I wear it, the Luna bag will ensure all my photography gear is close at hand for quick access.
On the downside, if you tend to shoot with dual cameras, you may find the bag’s space is limited.
The bottom line:
The Kelly Moore Luna bag is perfect for women who want a stylish and accessible camera bag. You’ll love its roomy interior and multiple compartments, which keep your gear organized and easy to access for a trip or daily adventures.
4. Best Purse Style Case: Compagnon Unique Camera and Laptop Bag
When people see the Compagnon Unique Camera and Laptop Bag, they often think it’s a purse. While you could technically use it as one, this bag is best for the modern woman photographer.
I like the Compagnon Unique is deceivingly large and features two main compartments: one for a camera and lenses and one for a laptop.
I was thrilled that the camera compartment can hold two camera bodies and lenses up to 25 centimeters. The laptop compartment is padded and can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop.
But that’s not all!. There’s also a front pocket for storing a phone and wallet and an interior zipper pocket for valuables. With these features, I can easily store and grab my camera gear while out on a shoot, making things convenient for me.
This Northern Germany-made bag features a vintage-inspired design. It’s constructed from high-quality materials. I love this case’s beauty; it’s unlike any other!
If looking fashionable is necessary, this bag is a convenient and practical choice; with two color options, you will find one that suits your style.
The bottom line:
The Compagnon Unique is perfect for the modern woman photographer who wants to look stylish while carrying all her gear comfortably.
5. Best Understated Option: Compagnon – The Backpack 2.0
A camera backpack is best when you need to bring a lot of gear to your shoots, or keep your hands free.
The Backpack from Compagnon is a top pick when looking for something more subtle; at first glance, it’s hard to tell this is a camera backpack. With numerous pockets and straps to fit photography needs, this bag is perfect for both daily use and travel.
The first thing I love about this backpack is its design, which include a detachable lens camera insert. This is ideal if I want to use the backpack for more than just camera carry.
I also like this gorgeous camera backpack features a durable bottom panel and a comfortable shoulder side strap. With these, I feel comfortable using the backpack over long periods of time shooting.
Moreover, this bag is best for a more understated option. From the outside, the bag appears as a standard backpack; however, inside, there are multiple storage options for the safe keeping of treasured devices. I love this feature because it makes me feel conveniently secure when carrying my camera gear.
Moving on, this bag is available in various colors to match your style, including black, dark green, and grey. My favorite is dark green.
Other convenient features that I like about this cute camera backpack include:
- The bag stands upright when you set it down, so no falling over or spills
- A primary storage section
- Padded laptop storage
- Memory card holder
- Inside zipper pocket for valuables
The bottom line:
Whether you’re looking for functional, stylish, or both, this quality and durable leather camera bag is sure to please. This backpack is a great option for those who often carry a lot of gear.
6. Best for Budget-Friendly Storage: Jo Totes Bellbrook Camera and Laptop Backpack
Photography can be an expensive hobby. The Jo Totes Bellbrook Camera and Laptop Backpack is an excellent budget bag for women. This stylish camera backpack is handcrafted by using water-resistant, American-made waxed canvas. It has plenty of room for all the essentials than average camera bag.
I like that this backpack has a lower price point but still has plenty of features to keep the camera and laptop secure and safe.
Speaking of space, I was thrilled that this backpack fits the bill with ample storage space and unique compartments. For this reason, I recommend it for any women who wants a camera and lens backpack that will double as a purse with a side strap.
My favorite features include:
- Adjustable dividers to customize the bag to your needs
- Water-resistant and leather trim accents
- Padded shoulder straps that are easy to adjust for a custom fit
- The separate laptop compartment that can accommodate up to a 15 inch laptop
Additionally, I love its various colors, so I can choose what coordinates with my outfit and style.
The bottom line:
This women’s camera backpack is perfect for those with significant storage needs at an affordable price. Whether you’re looking for a budget option or a designer bag, the Bellbrook fits both categories!
7. Best Versatile Mid-Size Bag: Jo Totes Gracie Camera Bag
Versatile camera bags are an excellent choice for various types of photographers or situation. The Jo Totes Gracie Camera Bag has this ability, as it can go from a stylish purse to a full-fledged camera bag or messenger bag instantly.
I love that the Gracie comes complete with a padded insert that can be removed, making it easy to grab a camera and go. Photographers can trust this bag to keep their gear safe and sound, as it includes multiple separators that attach by Velcro to keep your gear organized.
With this versatility, the Gracie is perfect for the woman who loves to document her life through photos, whether at a family gathering or while exploring the world. In the same breath, she can also use it as her everyday purse, as it has plenty of room for all her essentials.
In terms of space, I was thrilled that the Gracie has two exterior pockets, a zippered main compartment, and an adjustable shoulder strap. With this, I feel more prepared and organized while on a shoot. And at just under $200, it’s also quite affordable.
The bag’s durability is also a plus, as it comes with high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear.
it’s worth pointing out that the Gracie isn’t the only camera bag on the market designed with women in mind. However, it is one of the best, striking the perfect balance between form and function.
The bottom line:
If you’re looking for a camera bag that’s both beautiful and practical, the Gracie is a great option. The pack also comes in various colors to match your personality. All the features make this option one of the best versatile mid-size camera bags for women.
8. Best Mini Bag for a Cause: The Mini TOG Bag
Mini camera bags are ideal when you need to move quickly with your gear. The extra incentive for buying The Mini Tog Bag is that a portion of the proceeds goes to support various wildlife charities throughout the United Kingdom. Tog and Porter will support a different charity depending on the color you purchase. Tog and Porter’s organizations range from helping elephants to gorillas to orangutans.
Speaking of the weather protection, I love that this gorgeous bag protects the lens camera and has a water-resistant exterior, which gives me peace of mind and I can focus more on shooting.
I also like an adjustable shoulder strap for comfort. Plus, this case has a padded interior and a removable camera insert, which can offer customized interior to fit my camera and lenses, and ensure great protection for the gear.
The Mini Tog is compact camera bag on this list, but it still has enough room to fit the essentials. The bag is available in black, tan, and grey. My preference is tan. Plus, the bag may come with different hardware to fit your taste.
Space-wise, there is also extra storage for notepads, batteries, and other small items on the back of the pack and space for a phone on the front. With this feature, I can keep my gear well organized.
The Mini Tog Bag is perfect for those who want to support a good cause. Plus, it’s a stylish and functional bag you can carry your camera in at all times.
The bottom line:
If you’re looking for a camera bag that also supports a good cause, the Mini Tog Bag is a great option. Help save the environment while also getting an excellent bag to carry your camera in wherever you go.
9. Best for Extra Equipment: The Full-Size Tog Bag
Extra large camera bags are perfect for photographers who need to carry extra equipment for a day of shooting or a more extended trip.
The Full-Size Tog Bag from Tog and Porter is best for protecting and organizing your extra equipment. It has room for everything from full frame DSLR to a laptop, plus all the lenses, batteries, and other accessories. Plus, it comes in various colors and patterns to suit all styles.
If you love the features of the Mini Tog but need more space, the Full-Size Tog is the perfect compromise. It costs a bit more, but the extra space is worth the money. Additionally, the inserts are removable and customizable to suit your gear and needs.
I’ve been using the Tog and Porter Full-Size Tog Bag for a few months now, in addition to my main case, and I love it. It’s been great for carrying all my gear, plus a few extras like a light jacket and snacks. And the best part is that it doesn’t look like a traditional camera bag. For this reason, I can easily use it as an everyday bag as well.
One of my favorite things about the Tog bag is that it has a lot of compartments and pockets. With it, everything has its place. I can quickly find what I want without a hassle when shooting outside.
The bottom line:
Investing in a high-quality camera bag is essential for photography enthusiasts. I strongly recommend the Full-Size Tog Bag for someone looking for a quality camera bag that can bring plenty of gear.
10. Best Leather Bag: Think Tank Photo Lily Deanne Mezzo
Leather camera bags protect your gear from the elements when you’re traveling. One of the greatest attributes of the Think Tank Photo Lily Deanne Mezzo is that the exterior is full-grain Dakota leather. This material type is durable and strong. It can withstand various outdoor elements. And on top of that, this bag is both attractive and lightweight, weighing only 2.3 pounds, making it ideal for travel photography.
I love that the bag has a padded interior with compartments for a camera, lenses, and other accessories, which ensures my gear stays in good working order.
Having a camera bag that attaches to carry-on luggage is essential when traveling. The good thing is the Think Tank Photo includes a trolley sleeve that fits over the handle of a suitcase. I love this feature because the convenience of having my hands free is priceless when I am running to catch a flight. Plus, Knowing that my equipment is safe and secure is a huge relief.
I recommend this camera bag for those looking for a bag they can alter to fit their needs. It has a sleek, sophisticated design with well-made construction and a padded shoulder strap for comfort.
The bottom line:
The Think Tank Photo Lily Deanne Mezzo is an excellent option if you frequently engage in travel with your gear. With a high level of durability, you can be sure it will withstand the rigors of travel.
11. Best Budget-Friendly Bag: The Christie Bag By Gatta
Budget camera bags are best for those on a budget or those using a camera occasionally. Gatta is a brand known for making beautiful and functional camera bags for women. Recently they have become more popular due to their level of design detail.
I have been using their products for years and can attest to their quality. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out their newest bag, the Christie Bag. Here are my thoughts.
The Gatta Christie Bag is a beautiful and well-crafted bag that is perfect for carrying your camera and all of its accessories. The bag is made of leather and suede, indicative of the quality of construction and design. Inside, the case has plenty of room for everything you need to carry. It even has a dedicated space for your laptop. With ample padding in the straps, the Christie is also comfortable to wear, even when fully loaded.
One thing I love most about the Christie Bag is its classic design. It has a timeless look that will never go out of style. The bag is available in black or brown. My preference is brown. Gatta’s Christie Bag also comes with a detachable shoulder strap. With that, I can carry it as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag.
The bottom line:
The Christie Bag is also one of the most affordable camera bags on this list at under $200. I highly recommend the Gatta Christie Bag to anyone in the market for a new camera bag. The bag has a great price tag and will last many years.
12. Best Bag for the Style Conscience: Lola Noir Crossbody by Gatta
Stylish camera bags are an excellent option for photographers who want to make a statement with their gear. I found the Lola Noir Crossbody from Gatta is the best bag for the style conscience.
The first thing I love about this bag is the unique design with a front tassel for extra character, perfect for standing out from the crowd. I also like the bag is lightweight and includes a padded interior to protect your camera from bumps, drops, and other impacts. With that, I can be sure my camera is well-protected and focus on my shooting.
Another aspect I love about the Gatta brand is it includes the Lola Noir Crossbody, which adds an extra layer to the camera security. I was thrilled that this bag had a locking system to keep my camera safe and sound. The pack also has exterior pockets, perfect for holding keys, phones, or other small items.
I recommend this bag to anyone who needs a more feminine take on the camera bag. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to make a statement with their style, and the padded interior will keep their camera equipment safe. The beauty of the Lola Noir is in the details, and it’s sure to turn heads when you’re taking pictures.
The bottom line:
The Gatta Lola Noir Crossbody is one of the best stylish camera bags for women who wants to make a statement with their style. The unique design and padded interior will keep your camera safe, and the attention to detail is sure to turn heads.
13. Best Everyday Canvas Bag: Peak Design Everyday Totepack
Canvas camera bags are best for daily use. The Peak Design Everyday Totepack is a should bag for women photographers who love a clean canvas look, and old-fashioned tote.
The tote bag has a modern, sleek look, making it one of a few cute camera bags for women. It comes in black or tan, depending on your style. The bag’s exterior is made of a durable, abrasion-resistant fabric. It’s weather proof but not a waterproof.
Speaking of functionality, I can style it as a backpack or a shoulder bag. It has a lot of compartments and pockets for organization, and the straps are adjustable.
I love that this tote bag can double as an everyday purse, which I can use for errands and daily activities. Many also use it for:
- School or quick weekend trips
- Fitting a 13-inch laptop in the main compartment
- Carrying typical items like a phone, keys, notebooks, and more
- A cooler: the inside padding allows beverages to remain cool for a long day at the beach
Another feature I love about this camera bag is I can purchase additional accessories to help me take better photos. My favorite options include:
- The Tech Pouch: Convenient for holding batteries, memory cards, and other small electronics.
- The Small Wash Pouch: A convenient accessory for storing toiletries and makeup.
- The Capture Clip: This clip allows you to attach the camera bag to a belt or purse for easy access.
The bottom line:
I absolutely love my Peak Design Everyday Totepack. It’s perfect for carrying my camera around, and I can also use it as an everyday bag when I’m not shooting.
The bag is well-made and looks great. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a camera bag they can use as an everyday bag.
14. Best Camera Backpack for All Conditions: Peak Design Everyday Backpack
Camera bags for all conditions can protect and transport your gear in many situations. I recommend the Peak Design Everyday Backpack for those looking more room than a tote can provide.
I love to photograph my daily life, but most of all I love travel photography. For this reason, I appreciate this camera backpack because I can carry around my gear without lugging around a heavy suitcase while travelling.
Speaking of the features, I like the backpack includes multiple compartments, as well as a built-in rain cover and a comfortable shoulder strap system. With these, I can adjust and customize it to fit my needs.
I was pleasantly surprised that the camera backpack comes in two sizes; the small bag is perfect for carrying around a DSLR camera and a few lenses, while the large backpack can accommodate a DSLR camera with multiple lenses and other accessories. The bag has various color options, including black, blue, and gray, to suit your taste. My preference is black.
Best women’s camera bags fit your lifestyle and meet your needs. Another great thing about this backpack is there are plenty of cases available. Some cases are great for carrying around your DSLR camera and lenses. Others are perfect for holding your mirrorless camera body with lens attached, and a few accessories.
After borrowing a friend’s Peak Design Everyday Backpack for a trip to Zion National Park, I was hooked.
One of the best things about the Everyday Backpack is that I can easily convert it from a backpack to a shoulder bag or a camera insert for another case. I can quickly remove the backpack strap, and the bag comes with a detachable shoulder strap, making it easy to switch up how you carry it.
In just a few seconds, you can pull closed the backpack zip with your camera kit inside and be on your way!
The bottom line:
I recommend Peak Design’s Everyday Backpack is ideal for those who take complex photographs and require more equipment than most.
5 Things To Consider When Buying Camera Bags
There are many things to take into consideration when purchasing a new camera bag, but here are five of the most common features to look for:
Design
Not all people care about how fashionable a bag is, but for some of us, it’s essential. While most camera bags are just about function, we want stylish camera bags that look good, and matches our overall appearance and clothing. After all, we carry our most prized possession – our cameras!
Things To Look For:
- Color
- Material
- Accessories
Shape and Size
Different photographers require various things in a case. For some, size is the primary concern, while others need something more rugged. And still, others might prefer a case that has specific dimensions for carrying camera gear and nothing else.
Things To Look For:
- Large or Small
- Rectangle or Square
- Dimensions
Security
Knowing that your equipment is safe and secure is vital for any photographer. Having adequate space and compartments to keep everything organized and in its place can make a world of difference, especially when you’re on the go.
Things To Look For:
- Various Compartments
- Removable Inserts
- Locking Mechanism
Capacity
While size is one thing, knowing what a camera case is capable of is another factor. For some, having a bag that can convert into a backpack is critical, while others might prefer a bag that resembles and can act as a purse.
Additionally, some may want a laptop pouch, whereas others prefer a side pouch. Exploring the various options is a great way to determine which capacity is best for you and your needs.
Things To Look For:
- Versatility
- Comfort Level
- Outdoor Protection
Price
It’s very common for the final decision to boil down to cost. While we want to save money, we also want something that will last and protect our expensive photography gear. Finding where the two overlap can be tricky, but it is possible with the many options available.
Things To Look For:
- Quality Features
- Competitive Pricing
- Positive Reviews
Conclusion
Picking the right women’s camera bag is not easy. I found the Kelly Moore Pilot Backpack is the best one for women photographers. It’s a stylish and functional bag, and it’s also comfortable to wear and easy to use. I have always relied on the Kelly Moore Pilot Backpack to carry and organize all my gear when out shooting. I feel confident that I have made the right choice.
Camera bags for women are essential to store camera gear. There are many factors to consider when it comes to finding the best camera bag; ultimately, the decision comes down to finding the right balance between cost and quality.
When looking for the perfect women’s camera bags, it is essential to consider the design, shape, size, capacity, price, and security before swiping your card at the register or online.
Ultimately, the bag should protect your camera gear while being stylish enough to match your aesthetic and incorporate any additional needs.
For those looking to purchase one of my highlighted products in this article, you can click on any of the links included links.
