17 Best Camera Bag Inserts

Protecting your camera and equipment during travel is critical; and while camera and lens backpacks are the only bags truly qualified to safely carry your gear, they can be expensive, out of touch with your style, and purposeless beyond holding gear. 

That’s where camera inserts come into play.

With camera inserts, it’s possible to transition any ordinary bag into a camera bag. They arrive in all different sizes and builds to accommodate all different kinds of bags and gear. 

With our list of the best camera bag inserts to date, we’ll guide you to the insert that slips right into your favorite bag and meets all of your photography needs.

 

What to Consider

1. Size and Capacity

When it comes to figuring out which camera bag insert will best suit you, size is important. 

Size will determine which of your bags the camera insert will fit into. It will also determine how much gear you can hold-- think about your future self, too. Will you be adding on to your gear? Or are you traveling light? Keep in mind that this will affect the weight of the bag, too.

2. Build Quality

When it comes to protecting your gear, quality is everything. When you’re scrolling through this list of camera bag inserts, be sure to note the materials used…

What are the dividers composed of? Are they scratch-resistant? Dust-resistant? Are they padded too little? Or are they so thick that they sacrifice space for gear? Are they adjustable? How about the zippers? While you’re taking note of the build, ask yourself: do I trust that this insert will take good care of my gear while I’m on the move? 

For example, the Voyager camera backpack comes ready with sturdy and customizable camera bag dividers to keep your gear safe. You can easily customizable the compartments to fit your needs and fit as much as 2 camera bodies and 5+ lenses (plus accessories).

3. Type

Camera bag inserts and camera cubes can have side pockets, which makes them great options for certain side access camera backpacks and bags. Some inserts are built for satchels, purses and totes while others are built for backpacks. 

Have a favorite go-to bag in mind that you’re thinking of converting to a camera bag? Make sure you consider the kind of bag you’re looking to convert, that way you can choose the insert that will best align with your backpack, purse, or messenger bag.

4. Budget

Albeit, most camera bag inserts are similar in price, but some vary in price for different reasons. Ask yourself:

Do I  want a waterproof insert? Or do I just need a shock-proof insert? Do I need compartments that will hold extra accessories? Or am I looking for an insert to just hold a DSLR and a few lenses?

Make sure you weigh out which factors are most important to you, that way you can decide if you’re spending your money right. 

 

But do you need camera bag inserts?

Now that we have outlined the different factors that you may want to look into before purchasing a camera bag insert, there is one last thing to consider. Sometimes it is easier for photographers to check out bags that already come set with inserts.

For example, Sunny 16’s Voyager camera backpack comes with Velcro dividers that are easily adjustable to fit any gear that you would like to bring with you (including a drone and tripod). To learn about setting up your camera bag dividers, watch the video below:

Having this customizable option can be better than having to worry about a separate camera bag insert in certain instances.

The Best Camera Bag Inserts for Photographers

1. Mountainsmith Kit Cube
2. F-Stop Shallow ICU Medium Insert
3. WANDRD Essential Camera Cube
4. The CIA Douchebag Insert
5. Peak Design Camera Cube
6. Tenba BYOB
7. G-raphy Camera Insert
8. Koolerton Shockproof DSLR Camera Insert
9. Thule Legend GoPro Advanced Case
10. Ape Case Cubeze 39
11. DSPTCH Large Camera Insert
12. LEXDRAY Monterey Camera Insert
13. ONA The Roma Insert
14. Vanguard Supreme Divider Insert 40
15. Crumpler Haven Medium Camera Pouch
16. Evoc Camera Block CB 6L
17. Ruggard Camera Insert for DSLR

 

Camera Backpack Inserts

Believe it or not, some camera backpacks don’t have built-in dividers; leaving photographers without much protection or possibility of organization when loading in their gear. If you’re looking to convert your travel backpack or upgrade your camera backpack so that it’s an organized and safe space for your gear, here’s a list of the best camera bag inserts for backpacks that are guaranteed to do the trick.

 

1. Mountainsmith Tan Kit Cube (Medium)

The Pros: The Mountainsmith Tan Kit Cube sports a water-resistant exterior and a fully padded interior, offering a safe and organized space to carry your gear in. This camera bag insert also features enough room for extra accessories, so you can pack batteries, SD cards, and chargers with you too. It’s bright yellow interior makes it easy to find your gear quickly and efficiently. This camera bag insert also comes equipped with cinch cord locks for extra security. While this is listed under backpacks, it can fit with any bag that aligns with its size dimensions--it arrives in small, medium or large. The medium can hold up to 10 lbs of gear. 

The Cons: Some may find that the Cinch top closure may be a hassle to undo, hindering that grab-and-go feel.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★☆☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Mountainsmith Tan Kit Cube Quick Specs

• Price: $37-$70 depending on size
• External size: 7 x 10 x 10 in
• Weight: 1.69 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses, chargers, batteries, and small accessories
• Color: Black and yellow

 

2. F-Stop Shallow ICU Medium Insert

The Pros: The F-Stop Shallow Internal Camera Unit is an insert designed to fit seamlessly with F-Stop Mountain Series packs, or bags that will be tall enough to carry this fairly large camera bag insert. With this camera bag’s organizer insert, you can fit three camera bodies and up to three lenses. This insert is composed of brushed polyester, tough water-resistant shell material, and high-density cross link foam for extra protection. The foam lid is removable, the dividers are customizable, and this insert comes equipped with high-quality full body zippers. 

The Cons: You can’t open this bag while you’re wearing it on your person. The insert stands up within your bag, so you’ll have to lay the bag on it’s back before unzipping or your gear will come tumbling out. This may be a turn off for those who want quick access.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★☆☆☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

F-Stop Shallow ICU Medium Insert Quick Specs

• Price: $90
• External size: 11 x 11.5 x 5 in
• Weight: 0.95 lbs
• What Fits: Up to 3 camera bodies and up to 3 lenses
• Color: Black and gray

 

3. WANDRD Essential Camera Cube

The Pros: While WANDRD’s camera bag insert is especially designed for the beloved PRVKE 21 camera backpack, it also works as a camera bag insert for backpacks in general. This camera cube is composed of Robic Nylon and features a weather-resistant coating and YKK zippers. It also comes with 2 long dividers, 3 short dividers, and 3 elastic straps. This is best fit for the photographer who’s travelling light or with their mirrorless and a few extra accessories.

The Cons: The all black exterior and interior can make it difficult to find gear quickly and efficiently. 

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★☆☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

WANDRD Essential Camera Cube Quick Specs

• Price: $60
• External size: 9.5 x 11 x 4.5 in
• Weight: 0.8 lbs
• What Fits: One camera body, up to 3 lenses, and two batteries
• Color: Black

 

<< If a camera insert won't do, take a look at our best selling camera backpack >>

 

4. The CIA Douchebags Insert

The Pros: Looking for the perfect insert for your Douchebags backpack or roller bag? Look no further. The CIA is a custom camera bag insert for their products, equipped with a specialized hook-up system that makes it possible for you to carry all of your gear without the fear of losing space in your bag. With The CIA’s fully foldable lid, this camera bag insert can also be folded away. The main material is composed of taffeta rip-stop and nylon fleece can be found on the interior. This sleek black case comes with padded, fully customizable dividers. 

The Cons: The way this insert is designed is very specific to Douchebag products--while you can certainly slip this into a bulky backpack, the hook-up system The CIA uses will only work with Douchebags backpacks and roller bags, which can be limiting.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

The CIA Douchebags Insert Quick Specs

• Price: $79
• External size: 10.2 x 10.2 x 4.7 in
• Weight: 0.8 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR with lens attached, 1-2 lenses additional lenses, a mic, a charger, and an extra battery
• Color: Black 

 

5. Peak Design Camera Cube (Medium)

The Pros: The Peak Design Camera Cube makes transporting your photography gear easy. The cube arrives in three sizes, so you’re guaranteed to find your perfect fit. This camera bag insert allows you to make it your own with its customizable FlexFold dividers. The main opening features a tuck-away flap for quick access when packed away. The cube contains a movable pocket for filters, lens caps and other small accessories you may need. It’s weather-proof built and made of recycled 4000D nylon canvas with high-density foam sub-lining.

The Cons: This camera cube doesn’t open from the top, so when you’re accessing your gear, you’ll have to lay the backpack flat on its back before unloading anything--unless of course, you pair it with Peak Design’s Travel Bag, in which case, you can access gear from a side compartment. 

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Peak Design Camera Cube Quick Specs

• Price: $70
• External size: 12.6 x 12.6 x 6.7 in
• Weight: 0.76 lbs with dividers
• What Fits: Camera with lens attached, up to 4 additional lenses, a charger, and an extra battery
• Color: Black 

 

6. Koolerton Shockproof DSLR Camera Insert

The Pros: While many of these camera bag inserts have ranked around the $50-$90 mark, the Koolerton insert ranks at just $16. The outer bag is composed of high-quality velvet material, polyester and cotton, this insert is both shockproof and waterproof. This insert also features a soft release pad so that your camera will remain in its designated spot when you’re on the move. The interior is padded, so you won’t have to worry about scratches occurring on a bumpy ride. 

The Cons: While it’s compact enough to fit in most backpacks, if you’re on the hunt for a camera bag insert for your backpack that will hold more than just your DSLR and an extra lens, the Koolerton insert isn’t for you.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★☆☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Koolerton Shockproof DSLR Camera Insert Quick Specs

• Price: $16
• External size: 10.6 x 6.3 x 4.7 in
• Weight: 0.35 lbs
• What Fits: Camera with lens attached and an additional lens
• Color: Black

 

7. Thule Legend GoPro Advanced Case

The Pros: This Thule case offers crushproof and padded camera bag partitions, a removable die-cut foam pad interior free of dust, mud, sand, and build-up, and pockets to store chargers and any other accessories you may need. The interior lining is bright blue, making it easy to grab what you need in a moment's notice. The semi-hardshell build and rugged finish ensure that your gear is in good hands. It even features the ability to charge your GoPro, on the go.

The Cons: This bag is built specifically for GoPro users; if you’re not looking for a GoPro case, this definitely won’t work for you.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Thule Legend GoPro Advanced Case Quick Specs

• Price: $60
• External size: 14.2 x 9.4 x 3.3 in
• Weight: 1.17 lbs
• What Fits: Up to 2 GoPro cameras, mounts, and a few accessories
• Color: Black and blue

 

<< View our best selling camera backpack >>

 

8. Ape Case Cubeze 39

The Pros: Looking for an affordable camera bag insert for your backpack? Here’s a great option. Ape Case’s Cubeze 39 is a bright yellow camera insert best fit for your mirrorless or DSLR. The removable and adjustable padded interior dividers allow you to customize this camera bag insert. If you’re not interested in the high-visibility yellow case, it also comes in gray. The fold-over cover allows you to quickly access your gear--just undo the drawstring, fold down the cover, grab your gear and go!

The Cons: The drawstring closure doesn’t provide as much protection as a zipper would. 

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★☆☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Ape Case Cubeze 39 Quick Specs

• Price: $16
• External size: 6.25 x 3.75 x 9.75 in
• Weight: 0.4 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR, up to 4 additional lenses, a charger or an extra battery
• Color: Yellow

 

9. DSPTCH Large Camera Insert

The Pros: Large and padded, this camera insert allows you to make your own set-up with it’s fully adjustable, padded dividers. This insert also features multiple velcro padded tabs so you can arrange and create compartments however you’d like. This insert also features top and side access points, so depending on what’s easiest for you, you can load and reload with ease. Composed of 1680D ballistic nylon, this insert is guaranteed to last you a lifetime.

The Cons: This may be too wide to safely fit in the average backpack and the side compartment may be useless to those who have backpacks that lack a side compartment feature. For a large size, it doesn’t seem to hold much either.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★☆☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆ 

DSPTCH Large Camera Insert Quick Specs

• Price: $44
• External size: 10 x 10 x 5 in
• Weight: 0.87 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR with small lens attached, up to 2 additional lenses, and a charger
• Color: Black and gray

 

10. LEXDRAY Monterey Camera Insert

The Pros: You can insert this camera bag into your backpack or you can attach a strap to the D-rings and use it as a bag. It’s composed of ultra-durable weather-resistant fabrics--fleece lined and rip-stop nylon pack cloth on the exterior-- and military grade hardware. The interior contains two lay-down dividers and is fully padded and fleece lined. This camera bag insert comes equipped with a zipper closure for utmost safety when travelling with your gear. 

The Cons: It’s compact, so it can only really hold a DSLR with a small lens attached and an additional small lens, or just a large lens. This won’t do for heavy gear travellers. 

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆ 

LEXDRAY Monterey Camera Insert Quick Specs

• Price: $60
• External size: 10 x 14 x 4.9 in
• Weight: .75 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR with small lens attached and an additional small lens.
• Color: Navy and black

 

11. Vanguard Supreme Divider Insert 40

The Pros: Looking for a military-grade bag insert for your camera and its gear? Look no further. The Vanguard Supreme Divider Insert 40 can hold two DSLRS and up to six additional lenses. It comes equipped with padded dividers that allow you to customize the way your camera bag insert functions and organizes your gear. The soft but thick padded provides additional cushion for your gear and zippered pockets for additional accessories ensure all of your items are safely packed away when using this insert.

The Cons: This insert is pretty heavy-- even without gear, weighing almost 2 lbs alone. Now think about how much weight you’ll be pulling with that insert full of gear...If you’re looking for a lightweight option, this isn’t the camera bag insert for you.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆ 

Vanguard Supreme Divider Insert 40 Quick Specs

• Price: $60
• External size: 15.5 x 9.6 x 5.9 in
• Weight: 1.98 lbs
• What Fits: 2 DSLRs, up to 6 lenses, and additional accessories.
• Color: Black

 

<< View our best selling camera backpack >>

 

12. Evoc Camera Block CB 6L

The Pros: The Evoc arrives as a camera bag insert with EVOC backpacks or backpacks that are 20L or larger; or it can work as a stand-alone bag. You may carry it by the featured hand strap or attach a strap to the featured D-rings. The Block features a touch-fastening, padded divider that’s both removable and adjustable, so you can customize this insert how you want. With its dual ergonomic zipper T-pulls, the Block opens and fastens securely. 

The Cons: The Evoc can only fit a compact camera and an extra small lens; and for it’s compact size, it’s a bit too expensive.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆ 

Evoc Camera Block CB 6L Quick Specs

• Price: $59.95
• External size: 11 x 7.5 x 3.9 in
• Weight: 0.55 lbs
• What Fits: Compact camera and 1-2 lenses
• Color: Black

Shoulder Bag Inserts

We’ve reviewed numerous options for backpacks, but what about shoulder bags? Are you looking to make your own camera bag out of your regular shoulder bag with an insert? Here are some of the best camera bag inserts that’ll allow for that DIY feel. 

 

13. Tenba BYOB 10

The Pros: Tenba’s BYOB 10 can fit it all, and fit in all. From backpacks and suitcases to handbags and shoulder bags, the BYOB’s soft exterior shell can mold to fit most bags. The BYOB 10 can hold a DSLR or mirrorless camera, up to 4 lenses, and more. The padded dividers are customizable and the zippered closure located on the top of the bag folds back to optimize access. This camera bag insert features front and rear pockets for additional accessories, a designated water bottle pocket, and interior zippered pockets for securing wallet contents. The exterior is composed of water-repellant shadow ripstop nylon and YKK zippers. 

The Cons: For the largest size available (BYOB 10) this insert is a bit too compact to fit all of your camera gear into your bag. 

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Tenba BYOB 10 Quick Specs

• Price: $49.95
• External size: 10.5 x 8 x 4.5 in
• Weight: 0.5 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses, chargers and cords, a water bottle, your phone, wallet contents and keys
• Color: Black and gray

 

14. G-raphy Camera Insert

The Pros: This insanely affordable, sleek camera insert comes with adjustable and removable velcro padded inserts, so that you can organize your gear your way in your camera bag. Both waterproof and shockproof, this camera insert is compact enough to work great with shoulder bags and roomy enough to fit your favorite DSLR and an extra lens. This is a great option for casual shoots, and those days when you don’t need to pack it all. The sleeve is also composed of anti-static composite material which is both durable and flexible. If you’re not fond of the all black, you can also purchase this camera insert in a neon orange, safari green, or a subtle gray. The zipper closure guarantees safety when travelling with your most prized gear. 

The Cons: There are no pockets or compartments for any additional accessories you may need. 

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★☆☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

G-raphy Camera Insert Quick Specs

• Price: $17
• External size: 10 x 5.5 x 5.5 in
• Weight: 0.15 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR or SLR with one additional lens
• Color: Black

 

15. ONA The Roma Insert

The Pros: Looking for an insert to match your ONA Bowery camera bag? ONA’s The Roma Insert allows you to make your own camera bag with this handcrafted insert. The Roma is composed of a black wax canvas and leather side handles--which make this insert an easy grab. There are five pockets on the exterior, so there’s room for any additional accessories you may need. The snap closure flap makes it easy to grab your gear in a moment's notice. This is another great option for a light travel where your favorite camera, an extra lens and some additional accessories are the only necessities.

The Cons: While the snap closure flap makes it easy to grab your gear, some photographers find it unsafe and tend to prefer zipper closures for ensured security. The exterior pockets don’t close, so any accessories you may pack in these pockets are loosely stored. The Roma is also a bit pricey for what it offers.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

ONA The Roma Insert Quick Specs

• Price: $75
• External size: 10.5 x 7 x 4 in
• Weight: 1.21 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR, 1 additional lens, small notebook, cables, and extra batteries
• Color: Black, brown and gray

 

<< View our best selling camera backpack >>

 

16. Crumpler Haven Medium Camera Pouch

The Pros: For easy and quick access, the Crumpler Haven Camera Pouch offers a drawstring with a cord lock for fast opening and secure closing. The exterior is composed of coated ripstop--tear and water resistant-- and the interior is made of plush brushed nylon lining. There are flexible polyester mesh pockets on the exterior of the pouch, so you can fit any cords, batteries, or extra SD cards you may need. The main compartment allows you to customize this camera bag insert with its velcro padded inserts to fit your organizational preference. 

The Cons: This camera bag insert won't suit a large zoom lens and the drawstring closure isn’t as secure as a zipper closure would be.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★☆☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆ 

Crumpler Haven Medium Camera Pouch Quick Specs

• Price: $69
• External size: 8.66 x 4.72 x 8.66 in
• Weight: 0.51 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR, an additional lens, cables, filters, memory cards, and extra batteries.
• Color: Purple and black

 

17. Ruggard Camera Insert for DSLR

The Pros: This affordable camera bag insert works best for the photographer who’s in need of a compact, lightweight insert. This lightweight nylon-based insert features padded touch-fastening interior dividers and a drawstring closure. It can work within a backpack, a messenger bag, or your favorite shoulder bag. The insert is also designed to collapse when it’s empty, so you can conserve space within your bag. 

The Cons: While the dividers are adjustable, the velcro patch only exists within two of the four side walls and doesn't fully extend to meet that length. This can limit the ways in which you customize this camera bag insert. There are no additional pockets or compartments for accessories. 

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★☆☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆ 

Ruggard Camera Insert for DSLR Quick Specs

• Price: $14.95
• External size: 10 x 7.5 x 12.7 in
• Weight: 0.3 lbs
• What Fits: DSLR or mirrorless body, 1 lens, flash and battery
• Color: Gray and beige 

 

<< View our best selling camera backpack >>

 

The Best DSLR Camera Bags

We’ve taken you through the best camera bag inserts that can transform your favorite backpack or shoulder bag into the ultimate camera bag. But have you ever wondered what kind of camera bag would best suit your DSLR? Check out our list of the very best DSLR camera bags to date.

Up Next: The Best DSLR Camera Bags →