13 Best Camera Pouches to Try Out
If you’re using a smaller camera, like a point and shoot compact camera — then a camera backpack might not be necessary. A camera pouch bag might be the most ideal option for you since it's lightweight and very flexible.
Not sure which one to grab? We've actually compiled the best camera pouches that will work for many photographers and filmmakers.
Before diving into the list and making a purchase, let's look at some...
Things To Consider
Size
Camera pouches come in different sizes. The best camera pouch should be sleek and compact, but also the right fit for your gear. If you’re storing it in another bag or everyday carry, it shouldn’t take too much space. If you can fit in some accessories and small items without making it bulky, that would be a plus. The right size also allows for alternate uses, such as a camera lens pouch.
Style
Choosing the right style can mean two things: the form and the look. For example, a camera pouch for RX100 is as small and sleek as the pocket camera it houses. A DSLR camera pouch may have a protruding part that accommodates the lens attached. Some styles may serve both as a camera carry or camera lens pouch. Of course, it also helps if your pouch sports an elegant and eye-catching design. It doesn’t need to be a Louis Vuitton camera pouch, but if you can afford a bit of luxury, that also makes a difference.
Build Quality
Most camera pouches offer essential protective elements like padding and durable materials. But, the kind of photography you do may also need extra protection. Weather-proof materials or shock-proof components address this. If you’re always shooting outdoors, a dry camera pouch is the obvious choice. A leather camera pouch or waxed canvas pouch is best for urban photographers. Make sure that you choose a pouch with ample padding inside.
Functionality
Many camera pouches are now more functional, versatile, and easy to use. Some also come in top-loading style for quick access to gear. Others also work great as a camera lens pouch or drone case. You can slip your Louis Vuitton camera pouch into your everyday bag. Many of these pouches also double as slings or belt bags. A combination of these details is often ideal for functionality and versatility.
Okay, let’s jump into the list!
The Best Camera Pouches
- Manfrotto Street CSC Camera Pouch
- Manfrotto Nano VII Camera Pouch
- Holdfast Explorer Lens Pouch
- Tenba BYOB 9 Camera Insert
- Crumpler Triple A Camera Pouch 200
- Ruggard Lyra 30 Camera Pouch
- Lowepro Tahoe CS 20 Camera Pouch
- LowePro Dashpoint 30 Camera Pouch
- Artisan & Artist ACAM-75 Camera Pouch
- S-ZONE Water Resistant Camera Insert Bag Version 2.0
- OP-TECH USA Soft Pouch Digital DSLR ZOOM
- Aquapac Stormproof DSLR Camera Pouch
- Think Tank Photo Stuff It! Belt Pouch V3.0
1. Manfrotto Street CSC Camera Pouch
Pros: This Manfrotto camera insert will also transform any bag you own into a camera carry. With options like this, there’s no need to get a Louis Vuitton camera pouch; use your designer bag as is! Slip the pouch into another bag if you need to switch. It can hold and protect mirrorless and compact cameras plus a lens or small gear. It’s also possible to fit a small DSLR with a lens attached. Removable dividers make it a full-fledged camera carry that you can configure. There are also pockets for storing your phone and other small items. You can keep the drawstring opening closed, or open it and fold it around the pouch for quick access to your gear.
Cons: Pulling down the drawstring top around the pouch also covers the pockets around it. So, you might have to take out the pouch to close the top if you need something from the pockets.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Manfrotto Street CSC Camera Pouch Quick Specs
- Price: $30.54
- External size: 7.87 x 3.94 x 3.15 in
- Weight: 0.22
- What Fits: A mirrorless camera or small DSLR with lens
- Color: Green
2. Manfrotto Nano VII Camera Pouch
Pros: Many camera pouches are now more functional, versatile, and easy to use. Some also come in top-loading style for quick access to gear. Others also work great as a camera lens pouch or drone case. You can slip your Louis Vuitton camera pouch into your everyday bag. Many of these pouches also double as slings or belt bags. A combination of these details is often ideal for functionality and versatility.
Cons: Since it’s meant to be used with a main bag, it only has minimal padding. That could put you off against wearing this as a waist pack.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Manfrotto Nano VII Camera Pouch Quick Specs
- Price: $19.88
- External size: 4.92 x 2.36 x 3.15 in
- Weight: 0.084 kg
- What Fits: A small mirrorless camera or compact camera, some accessories
- Color: Black
3. Holdfast Explorer Lens Pouch
Pros: Aside from a camera pouch, you may also need a camera lens pouch to protect your extra glass. This all-weather carrier is another stylish option. It's a waxed canvas bag with leather trimmings and plush sheep wool insulation. Inside is a removable divider for both lenses and small cameras. It also has pockets for keeping small items, personal effects, and other accessories. It comes in two sizes. The Small Explorer for small to medium lenses or small cameras. The Large Explorer for bigger lenses and gear. At the back are belt loops and D-rings that allow you to use it as a compact camera belt case or attach your own straps. If you already own the Hold Fast MoneyMaker camera strap, this pouch will pair great with it.
Cons: Since it's pricey, it’s not likely to be the first choice for many photographers. This handsome pouch is more of a splurge item, not that much different from a Louis vuitton camera pouch. Still, most users love it, save for some loose sheepskin fiber/fur that will shed all over your gear at first. According to Hold Fast, it should clear up after a day or two.
Style: ★★★★★
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Holdfast Explorer Lens Pouch Quick Specs
- Price: $295 for Small Explorer; $390 for Large Explorer
- Internal size: 7 x 6.5 x 4.5 in (Small Explorer); 10 x 9 x 5 in (Large Explorer)
- Weight: ?
- What Fits: A small camera with lens, small to medium lenses, other small gear like flash (Small Explorer); two medium lenses and longer lenses like 70-200mm f2.8, other small gear like flash (Large Explorer)
- Color: Olive, Navy, Black
4. Tenba BYOB 9 Camera Insert
Pros: Looking for more options to transform any bag into a full-fledged camera carrier? The Tenba BYOB camera inserts actually encourage you to Bring Your Own Bag. It can be your everyday backpack or a Louis Vuitton camera pouch. It comes in several options for cameras of all sizes and configurations. The BYOB 9 fits a mirrorless camera or small DSLR with 2-3 lenses. The soft shell allows it to mold into the shape of any bag. The padded dividers are adjustable to any configuration. The interior has a soft brushed tricot lining that won’t scratch your gear. Its zipped top cover is also foldable and tucks into the back pocket for quick access. These details make it a great option if you’re after something durable but also discreet.
Cons: This is a very simple bag for its price, and the lining doesn’t seem robust to last regular use.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Tenba BYOB 9 Camera Insert Quick Specs
- Price: $39.85
- External size: 9 x 6.5 x 4 in
- Weight: 0.181 kg
- What Fits: A mirrorless camera or small DSLR camera, 2-3 lenses
- Color: Gray, Lime
5. Crumpler Triple A Camera Pouch 200
Pros: Need an extra carry for essentials and accessories? This waterproof top loader pouch makes sure you have extra batteries and SD cards. It’s also compact enough to fit into a bigger bag. Take it out and wear it as a sling when you’re ready to roll! This one can also fit a small mirrorless camera with a pancake lens. It also makes a perfect camera pouch for RX100. For slim compacts or point and shoot cameras, the smaller Triple A Camera Pouch 100 could be a better fit. Aside from the strap loops, there’s also a velcro belt loop for carrying as a belt pouch.
Cons: The size limits the mirrorless camera and lens combos you can fit in this camera pouch.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Crumpler Triple A Camera Pouch 200 Quick Specs
- Price: $29
- External size: 4 x 7.1 x 3.15 in
- Weight: 0.115 kg
- What Fits: A small mirrorless camera with pancake lens
- Color: Navy, Black, Tactical Green, Red
6. Ruggard Lyra 30 Camera Pouch
Pros: This simple camera pouch is a good option for digital point and shoot cameras. The clamshell opening provides easy access. The nylon exterior is durable, weather-resistant, and keeps out moisture, dirt, and dust. The interior is also cushioned to protect your camera. It also has an SD card pocket. This pouch also has a belt loop with touch fasten tabs. But you can also turn it into a sling using the removable shoulder strap.
Cons: This camera pouch has a bright yellow accent and interior. It’s supposed to make it easy to find stuff while shooting in low light. But, it can be distracting in the daytime.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Ruggard Lyra 30 Camera Pouch Quick Specs
- Price: $14.95
- External size: 3 in x 1.75 in x 5.25 in
- Weight: 0.062 kg
- What Fits: A small point and shoot camera, extra SD card, spare battery
- Color: Black
7. Lowepro Tahoe CS 20 Camera Pouch
Pros: This is a great camera pouch for RX100 or similar sized cameras. It’s lightweight and has a weather-resistant exterior. The interior has a padded, non-abrasive polyester liner. Its zippered, wide-mouth opening provides quick access to your camera. The zippered front accessory pocket fits a memory card, spare battery, or small items. It also comes with a removable shoulder strap.
Cons: The belt loop at the back also doubles as a hand strap. So, the camera pouch may move or shift around when worn as a belt carry. The strap loop on the pouch and the removable strap clip are plastic. The strap itself is also too thin and isn’t adjustable.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Lowepro Tahoe CS 20 Camera Pouch Quick Specs
- Price: $11.95
- External size: 3.5 in x 2.1 in x 5.6 in
- Weight: 0.0567 kg
- What Fits: A point and shoot digital camera, memory card or spare battery, small items
- Color: Black, Blue
8. LowePro Dashpoint 30 Camera Pouch
Pros: Are you a mirrorless or compact camera user who shoots outdoors a lot? You'll benefit most from this simple yet durable camera pouch. The LowePro Dashpoint range is available in three sizes to accommodate smaller cameras. The Dashpoint 30 is the biggest in the series. It fits mirrorless and compact cameras with a zoom lens attached. But, many users also found it perfect as a camera pouch for RX100 and camera lens pouch. The ripstop nylon and polyester build makes it lightweight. The EVA padded interior protects against impacts. It can also carry a GoPro or other gear with the same size. The top loading, wide-mouth opening with reverse zippers allows easy access to gear. You can also carry this pouch in different ways aside from stashing it in a bigger bag.
Cons: Some users have found issues fitting their cameras due to the rounded shape for the top and bottom. Sizing may also be tricky with some cameras. It also lacks space for extra batteries.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
LowePro Dashpoint 30 Camera Pouch Quick Specs
- Price: $19.95
- External size: 12.3 x 4.33 x 5.63 in
- Weight: 0.1 kg
- What Fits: A mirrorless or compact camera with zoom lens or GoPro and other similar sized gear
- Color: Galaxy Blue, Slate Grey
9. Artisan & Artist ACAM-77 Camera Pouch
Pros: Don’t need weather-proofing but want a quality everyday case? This lightweight leather camera pouch is worth your consideration. The Japan-made case keeps your mirrorless camera protected against dust, dirt, and scratches. Need a simple camera pouch mirrorless or camera lens pouch for daily use? This unique leather option does the job. It’s on the pricey side being a soft leather pouch, but still way more affordable than a Louis Vuitton camera pouch.
Cons: The elastic band closure allows the pouch size to adjust to any camera. But it may not be appealing to some since the elastic can stretch out over time.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Artisan & Artist ACAM-77 Camera Pouch Quick Specs
- Price: $155.55
- External size: 5.51 x 4.92 x 4.33 in
- Weight: 0.126 kg
- What Fits: A mirrorless or compact camera with lens
- Color: Black, Brown
10. S-ZONE Water Resistant Camera Insert Bag with Sleeve Version 2.0
Pros: Need a bigger pouch or insert for your DSLR camera? This upgrade of the water-resistant S-ZONE insert fits a DSLR with two extra lenses. The top flap has a mesh zipped pocket underneath for accessories and small items. The interior has detachable dividers that attach on the liner. As with the other inserts on this list, you can use this to DIY your camera backpack or messenger bag.
Cons: It’s a very simple insert that doesn’t have any other storage or carrying options. So, your bag of choice needs to cover for these requirements.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
S-ZONE Water Resistant Camera Insert Bag with Sleeve Version 2.0 Quick Specs
- Price: $17.99
- External size: 10.2 x 6 x 4.7 in
- Weight: 0.15 kg
- What Fits: A DSLR camera body and two lenses
- Color: Black
11. OP-TECH USA Soft Pouch Digital DSLR ZOOM
Pros: This soft dry camera pouch allows quick access for a full-sized DSLR camera with a zoom lens. Since it’s made of neoprene, it can also stretch to accommodate a wide range of sizes. This camera pouch also comes with a retaining strap that lets you attach it to the tripod mount or around the lens. The flap cover doesn’t get in the way of your camera strap, so it’s easy to remove when you need to take photos. For a budget dry camera pouch, it’s a good choice for outdoor shoots.
Cons: It’s sleek and simple, but it’s not the most stylish camera pouch. It may also be uncomfortable using the ring attachment for the retaining strap on the lens. The last option would be to wrap it around your bag strap. There are no other carrying options or alternate attachments. If you don’t use the retaining strap, you’re left with holding the pouch once you take your camera out to shoot.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
OP-TECH USA Soft Pouch Digital DSLR ZOOM Quick Specs
- Price: $21.76
- External size: 6 x 4.5 x 8 in
- Weight: 0.0907 kg
- What Fits: A DSLR camera with zoom lens attached
- Color: Black, Nature
12. Aquapac Stormproof DSLR Camera Pouch
Pros: This option is a large dry camera pouch that can fit a DSLR. Its style and size makes it more of a bag than a pouch. But, there are also smaller sizes available. It has a waterproof construction and foam padding. But, it's the roll-down seal that makes it ideal for the toughest weather conditions. There are dividers with padding for a camera body and lenses. There's also a separate zipped pocket or storing accessories. It also comes with a shoulder strap and belt for versatile and secure carrying. If you drop it in the water, it will float!
Cons: It looks the part of a dry camera pouch (or bag) built for the adventurer. Urban photographers will most likely skip this one.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Aquapac Stormproof DSLR Camera Pouch Quick Specs
- Price: $46.84
- External size: 11.02 x 10.24 x 5.12 in
- Weight: 0.40 kg
- What Fits: A DSLR camera body and two lenses
- Color: Grey and Black
13. Think Tank Photo Stuff It! Belt Pouch V3.0
Pros: While this pouch goes with the Think Tank Modular Belt System V3.0, it’s also a versatile option on its own. Wear it as a belt pouch or slip it into your bag. It can accommodate a slim compact or point-and-shoot camera. It's also great for accessories and small equipment. So, this could be an option if you’re looking for a camera pouch for RX100. The front has a durable stretchy pocket for small accessories like SD cards. A nice and surprising touch is the rain cover stashed in the bottom pocket.
Cons: The back has Velcro-lock flaps. These may be bothersome if you’re not using it with any Think Tank Belt or Backpack. Only the back and the bottom have padding. Many have also found that sizing is tricky for this tiny pouch.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Think Tank Photo Stuff It! Belt Pouch V3.0 Quick Specs
- Price: $25.75
- External size: 3.7 x 5.6 x 2.5 in
- Weight: 0.1 kg
- What Fits: A point and shoot camera or smartphone or other small gear
- Color: Black
The Best Camera Holsters
This is only a short list of options if you’re looking for a camera pouch. A dedicated camera bag may be too bulky if you’re shooting with minimal gear. But a camera pouch works great as a simple and stylish carry for cameras and lenses alike. Some of them can even rival the luxurious look of a Louis Vuitton camera pouch. Got some other recommendations that you think should be on this list? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!
Some of these camera pouches work like camera holsters. If you want to know more about this style, we also made a list of the best camera holsters for you to check out!
