The question of which camera bag to use for your digital camera is not easy to answer. These pointers and guidelines will help you make an informed choice.
Some compact digital cameras are so small that they fit easily in a handbag or coat pocket. Even so, however small and compact your camera may be, buying a camera bag is highly recommended. It protects the camera from unnecessary wear and damage.
What should you keep in a camera bag besides the camera itself? Always carry spare batteries, memory cards, and a cleaning kit, plus any extra lenses and/or filters you expect to need for the photo shoot that day.
If your photography gear matters to you, do not put your camera bag in with the rest of your luggage!
When you go out to take photographs, do not pack all your equipment. Bring only what you really need; it will make a considerable difference in weight. One option is to own two camera bags: a large standard bag that holds everything without forcing it in, and a smaller bag for outings when you need only a little equipment.
Clean your camera bag regularly. Dust is certainly not good for your camera and related equipment. It easily settles on cameras and lenses and, over time, has a decidedly negative effect on the quality of your gear.
Traveling by air with your photography equipment? If your gear matters to you, do not put your camera bag in with the rest of your luggage. Most airlines allow you to take one piece of carry-on baggage plus one personal item into the cabin. Your camera bag can serve as that personal item. This lets you keep an eye on your valuable equipment, as you do not know how ground staff will handle your baggage while loading and unloading the aircraft.
What Types of Camera Bags Are Available?
A good choice is a weather-resistant shoulder bag with an opening at the top. This type of bag can be placed on the ground without tipping over, and you can unzip the top for easy access to your camera equipment.
The size of your future camera bag naturally depends heavily on the size of your digital camera. If you have a large camera with many accessories, consider a large wheeled camera bag. That makes it easy to move and take with you without carrying all the weight on one shoulder. Some wheeled camera bags can even be converted easily into backpacks for use when you are out and about.
If you own a compact or pocket-size digital camera, a small bag is more than sufficient. You might choose a small bag worn around your neck (rather than a bag on your back) or around your waist, so you have less reason to worry about theft.
Buying Your Camera Bag
When buying a camera bag, it is wise to consider the following details before making your final decision. Preferably avoid a bag with a brand name on it. Especially if you own an expensive camera and accessories, choose a neutral bag that does not look like a camera bag. Thieves are everywhere, and a bag bearing a camera brand practically shouts, ‘valuable equipment—take me!’ Choose a less conspicuous camera bag instead; an added advantage is that such bags are often less expensive. Before buying, consider which accessories you want to store and carry alongside your camera, such as lenses, filters, a memory card and a memory-card holder. Also consider purchases you may make in the future and factor them into your final decision.
Tip: Label compartments ‘Used Batteries’ and ‘New Batteries’
A camera bag with flexible compartments inside is very useful. It allows you to adjust the interior to your needs and to the camera and accessories you want to carry at that moment.
Buy a camera bag with plenty of zippered compartments and pockets. You can use one compartment for used batteries and another for new, unused ones. Tip: label the compartments ‘Used Batteries’ and ‘New Batteries.’ The same naturally applies to memory cards.
Compare Prices and Do Not Rush Your Decision
Finally
Pay close attention to the prices of camera bags—and, of course, other photography accessories. This is especially important if you buy a camera and camera bag at the same time. Many stores have the annoying habit of slightly lowering camera prices as a lure, then sending customers home with expensive accessories, such as a matching camera bag. This offsets the discount, so you ultimately still pay too much. Compare prices and do not rush your decision.
