13 Best Camera Waist Bags

If you're not shooting with tons of gear, a waist bag or fanny pack camera bag is a good option for your essentials. It's lightweight, compact, and provides quick access to your gear.

Camera waist bags are usually designed for compact cameras. But the DSLR waist pack is not uncommon either. Here are our recommendations for the best camera waist bags (aka fanny packs) to help you take your pick.

But before diving in, let's keep in mind a few of these considerations first.

What to Consider:

1. Size

When you're looking to purchase a camera waist bag, you need to consider the different sizes that are available. 

2. Weight

If you plan on trekking up a mountain with a lot of camera equipment, it can get really heavy. When choosing the ideal camera waist bag, you'll need to first consider the weight and whether there is any additional hip support.

3. Gear 

Are you going to be carrying a lot of gear? Then you may need to look into other options like a camera backpack that is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

4. Build Quality 

The build quality of a waist bag is critical because it needs to be thick enough to safely protect your gear. When scrolling through this list of the best waist bags, keep an eye out on the materials used (for both the interior and exterior). Is it scratch-proof? Water-resistant? How thick is the padding? How about the zippers? Are they weather-sealed?

Before you buy a waist bag

Learn more: Voyager Camera Backpack

Now let's dive into the list!

13 Best Camera Waist Bags

1. HEX Ranger DSLR Mini Sling
2. Peak Design Everyday Sling 6
3. WANDRD D1 Fanny Pack
4. Moment Fanny Sling
5. Billingham 72 Camera Bag
6. Manfrotto Street Camera Sling/Waistpack
7. Evoc Hip Pack Capture 7L
8. Lowepro M-Trekker HP 120
9. Cosyspeed Camslinger Outdoor MKII
10. Crumpler Quick Escape Toploader 300
11. Think Tank Photo Speed Freak V2
12. Matador Hip Pack
13. Porta Brace HIP-3LENS Hip-Pack Lens Case

1. HEX Ranger DSLR Mini Sling

Pros: This is one of the most stylish camera waist bags. It's also popular for mirrorless cameras and drones despite being a DSLR waist pack. Its exterior is water-resistant Genuine Cordura. The interior sports collapsible dividers and fleece lining. Several other details make it the best camera waist bag for many photographers today. These include front access organizer, hidden stash pockets, adjustable load straps. It also has adjustable straps for bottom carry. Stow your phone or sunglasses in the faux-fur lined pocket so they don't get scratched.

Cons: The straps may not feel premium. The belt strap may be too long as well. The internal separator of this camera waist bag is not so easy to reset due to the strong velcro. So, you’ll most likely need to make a configuration that you’ll stick with.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★☆

HEX Ranger DSLR Mini Sling Quick Specs

• Price: $69.95
• External size: 5.5  x 10.5 x 3 in
• Weight: 0.36 kg
• What Fits: Small DSLR or mirrorless camera, 1-2 lenses, DJI Mavic MIni Drone
• Color: Black, Camo, Glacier Camo

2. Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L

Pros: It's one of the most recommended camera waist bags from Peak Design. This stylish camera waist pack now comes in three sizes: 3L, 6L, 10L. While it’s a cross-body sling, you can also wear the 3L or 6L as a camera waist pack. This makes this option a versatile camera bag. Being the smallest and lightest in the Everyday Line, it’s best for mirrorless cameras and drones. But it can also fit a pro DSLR, depending on the DSLR waist pack size and the configuration. It also has waterproof construction and customizable FlexFold dividers. Use the internal pockets and padded tablet sleeve for other essentials.

Cons: Sizing may be tricky, especially if you’re thinking of using the 3L or 6L as a DSLR waist pack. You may find that the 6L isn’t big enough for your needs. But, the 10L can be too big for everyday use. If you’re trying to fit a pro DSLR with a zoom lens, it may not work without compromising the quick access.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L Quick Specs

• Price: $149.95
• External size: 9.74 in  x 7.02 in x 0.23 in
• Weight: 0.58kg without dividers; 0.78 kg with dividers
• What Fits: Small mirrorless or DSLR camera or drone kit,  1-2 lenses, 11” tablet
• Color: Black, Ash, Midnight

<< Sometimes a waist bag won't cut it. View our best selling camera backpack >>

3. WANDRD D1 Fanny Pack

Pros: Don’t let its simplicity fool you into thinking that this fanny pack camera bag isn't a great camera carry. In fact, it’s often recommended as one of the best camera waist bags out there. You can wear it hip style or crossbody style. It also boasts of a weatherproof construction, and internal organization. It’s no DSLR waist pack. But it’s a minimalist yet capable option for pairing a compact camera with a small and sleek bag.

Cons: It can only accommodate smaller cameras or gadgets and a few accessories. It's likely you’ll use this only as a camera lens waist bag. This fanny pack camera isn’t an option if you want something flexible in size.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

WANDRD D1 Fanny Pack Quick Specs

• Price: $69
• External size: 9 in x 6 in x 3 in
• Weight: 270 g
• What Fits: Compact camera, some accessories
• Color: Black

4. Moment Fanny Sling

Pros: If you shoot outdoors a lot, here’s another to add to your list of weatherproof camera waist bags. The Black and Olive Canvas versions have PU backed canvas exterior. The Black Ripstop version sports vegan ripstop fabric. The soft nylon straps are comfortable and super adjustable for all photographers. As its name indicates, you can also wear this fanny pack camera bag as a camera sling bags. Apart from the convenience of this style, the side straps are also noteworthy. They allow the bag to expand up to 4 inches thick. This lets you store a variety of gear combinations for both urban and outdoor shoots.

Cons: This option is definitely for minimalist gear so it won't double as a DSLR waist pack. This would also be too small for content creators who use many equipment or accessories. Unfortunately, there isn't a bigger version available. Still, it can still work as a camera lens waist bag for those who want quick access when switching lenses.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★☆

Moment Fanny Sling Quick Specs

• Price: $59
• External size: 8 in x 5.5 in x 3.5 in
• Weight: 0.286 kg
• What Fits: A compact camera, some accessories
• Colors: Black Ripstop, Black Canvas, Olive

5. Billingham 72 Camera Bag

Pros: Need a small, waterproof, and stylish fanny pack camera bag for your compact camera? Then, this is the best camera waist bag for you. Billingham camera bags scream luxury, and this offering is no exception. It comes with the same premium build quality and meticulous craftsmanship. The traditional canvas and synthetic FibreNyte outer materials both ensure weatherproof protection. While a camera sling bag, you can opt to remove the adjustable straps. Use the belt loop instead to convert it into either a camera waist pack, or a secondary carry as a camera lens waist bag.

Cons: It may be a bit pricey for its size and what it accommodates. If your mirrorless camera has a zoom lens, it won’t fit. So you’re limited to pairing your camera with a small standard lens if you’re interested in this camera waist pack.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★★

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

Billingham 72 Camera Bag Quick Specs

• Price: £110.00 (Approx $138)
• External size: 6 in x 5.12 in x 7.48 in
• Weight: 0.33 - 1.01 kg
• What Fits: A compact camera or mirrorless camera body
• Colors: Khaki Canvas / Tan Leather, Black Canvas / Tan Leather, Black FibreNyte / Black Leather, Sage FibreNyte / Chocolate Leather, Burgundy Canvas / Chocolate Leather

6. Manfrotto Street CSC Camera Sling/Waist Pack

Pros: Most of the fanny pack camera bag options on this list are for small cameras. Here’s one of the larger camera waist bags from Manfrotto. It accommodates a small DSLR or premium compact camera with some lenses. But it’s also among the best camera waist bag choices for a DJI Mavic Pro. It can even fit a 9.7” iPad. You can also wear this DSLR waist pack as a sling. It has a large, top loading opening for quick access. The main compartment also has the Manfrotto Protection System. The dividers are removable.

A tablet compartment, and outer front pocket for small items. If you’re a frequent outdoor shooter, the extra details may make this the best waist pack camera bag for you. The bottom part has a zippered pocket for holding a water bottle and a strap for a small tripod or selfie stick.

Cons: Beware of cramming too many items inside this bag. It also won’t fit high-end DSLRs, or a camera body equipped with a telephoto lens. The camouflage design of the inner lining may also not be appealing to everyone.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

Manfrotto Street CSC Camera Sling/Waist Pack Quick Specs

• Price: $74.88
• External size: 12.6 in x 4.72 in x 9 in
• Weight: 0.58 kg
• What Fits: A small DSLR with standard zoom lens or premium compact camera, or drone, 2 extra lenses (depending on the size), 9.7” iPad Pro tablet
• Color: Green

Need something a bit more substantial than a waist bag? Shop our best selling camera backpack!

7. Evoc Hip Pack Capture 7L

Pros: This is a camera waist bag popular with outdoor photographers, hikers, and bikers. It has plenty of space and quick access for system cameras. It’s also one of the best waist pack camera bag choices for content creators. Aside from a dedicated camera waist pack, they can also use it for small drones.

The padded main compartment and customizable using the adjustable dividers. The VENTI Flap system makes it easy to adjust the space between the bag and back for comfort. As a bonus, there’s also an integrated rain cover and belt holder for a compact tripod. There’s also a pocket for a water bottle so you can keep hydrated during a long day of shooting outdoors. Learn more about how to pack a backpacking pack for hiking and camping.

Cons: It's not the best camera waist bag for DSLRs or full frame cameras with long lenses. The price point may also

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

Evoc Hip Pack Capture 7L Quick Specs

• Price: $100
• External size: 7.87 in x 12.2 in x 5.51 in
• Weight: 0.61 kg
• What Fits: A mirrorless camera with lens attached, flash, small drone with accessories
• Colors: Heather Carbon Grey, Heather Light Olive

8. Lowepro M-Trekker HP 120

Pros: This camera waist pack is for those who often shoot outdoors with small cameras. It boasts of durable Black Cordura® or Grey Canvex™ construction. You also have the option to wear it as a camera waist belt bag or sling bag. It also has pockets for holding accessories and small items. It’s good enough for a budget or basic waist pack camera bag, or as a secondary carry as a camera lens waist bag.

Cons: Is style one of your main considerations? Or, are you more interested in camera waist bags that can accommodate a variety of sizes? If so, this option likely isn’t the best camera waist bag for you.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

Lowepro M-Trekker HP 120 Quick Specs

• Price: $46.38
• External size: 15.75 in x 3.94 in x 5.71in
• Weight: 0.34 kg
• What Fits: A small mirrorless camera or mobile video kit with LED light and audio gear
• Colors: Black, Charcoal Grey

9. Cosyspeed Camslinger Outdoor MKII

Pros: Here's another best waist pack camera bag for the active photographer. This camera waist pack provides comfort, protection, and quick access. This improved version boasts of improved hardware. There's also an extra flap with a zipper for extra protection. Its build is waterproof and shockproof. Another option is to make this your dedicated camera lens waist bag or accessory bag.

Cons: Unlike most bags of this style, it doesn’t double as a sling bag; you can wear it over the shoulder instead. The new Fidlock magnetic fastener promises quick, one-handed operation. But, having to unzip the extra flap may slow you down a bit.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

Cosyspeed Camslinger Outdoor MKII Quick Specs

• Price: EUR 129.99 (approx $148.62)
• External size: 6.30 in x 7.48 in x 3.74 - 4.33 in
• Weight: 0.5 kg
• What Fits: A mirrorless camera or small DSLR or drone, 1-2 lenses, batteries
• Colors: Grey, Olive, Black

10. Crumpler Quick Escape Toploader 300

Pros: This Crumpler offering is very straightforward. So, it's a good choice for a first waist pack camera bag. It's a perfect fit for larger mirrorless cameras and medium-sized DSLRs. But there’s also a smaller option (Quick Escape 150) for compact cameras. You can wear these two ways as well, like most camera waist bags. Water-resistant construction and integrated rain cover protect your gear from the elements. You'll also have the advantage of quick top loading access with this simple waist pack camera bag. This is likely to be the best waist pack camera bag for beginners. It's simple, comes at a reasonable price, and has waterproof construction.

Cons: Because of its design, it can only fit one camera with lens attached and a few accessories. It may not be the best camera waist bag if you tend to bring an extra lens or drone during your shoot.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

Crumpler Quick Escape Toploader 300 Quick Specs

• Price: EUR 39.90 (Approx. $45.63)
• External size: 7.87 in x 8.07 in x 4.72 in
• Weight: 0.312 kg
• What Fits: A DSLR with a short zoom lens, accessories
• Color: Dull Black, Blue

11. Think Tank Photo Speed Freak V2

Pros: Here’s one of the older fanny pack camera bag choices that still work great today. This camera waist bag converts into a contoured shoulder bag if you don’t need to wear it as a camera waist pack. It’s small enough for a premium mirrorless camera with extra lenses. But it's also roomy enough to be a DSLR waist pack for a body with a 70-200mm lens. It includes an integrated waist belt that stows in two zippered pockets. The durable exterior also has a water-repellent coating.

Cons: There are more stylish, and less bulky options within the same price range and details.

Style: ★★☆☆☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

Think Tank Speed Freak V2 Quick Specs

• Price: $159.75
• External size: 12.5 in x 10.5 in x 8.5 in
• Weight: 0.9 – 1.1 kg
• What Fits: A mirrorless camera or standard DSLR with lens attached, 1-2 extra lens
• Color: Black

Discount: Use code SUNNY10 to get 10% off our best selling camera backpack!

12. Matador Daylite Hip Pack

Pros: This waist bag is great for carrying small cameras or extra accessories. Simple, lightweight, and waterproof, it’s perfect for outdoor photographers. The exterior is waterproof 30D Cordura or 30D ripstop polyester for patterned options. The sealing zippers are also water-resistant. The internal zippered compartment also has a key clip. The front zippered compartment provides quick access to other small accessories. This hip pack is also puncture-resistant for added durability and security. It also comes with a stuff sack for convenient stowing away.

Cons: Since it’s packable and ultralight, this hip pack is thin and isn’t padded. So, it also doesn’t have structure or hold shape. So, it’s most likely only good as an emergency camera waist bag or accessory carry.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

Matador Daylite Hip Pack Quick Specs

• Price: $44.99
• External size: 9 in x 6 in x 8.5 in
• Weight: 0.082 kg
• What Fits: A small mirrorless camera or point and shoot camera, small accessories
• Color: Charcoal, Indigo, Leaf Pattern, or Pop Pattern

13. Portabrace HIP-EOSR

Pros: This is another versatile waist bag for small cameras and accessories. It has a main compartment with a semi-rigid frame for great protection. The exterior has a Cordura material that is resistant to scratches. Inside, there’s a foam padding layer and soft Veltex lining. It also has two foam-padded layers which allows you to configure the bag according to your gear. There are also plenty of extra pockets on the top, front, and sides. These are perfect for storing accessories and small items. The belt strap is extra wide for better support and comfort.

Cons: Function comes first for this bag, so it’s not the most stylish option out there. You also can’t carry this bag as a sling. If you’re not carrying extra accessories, there are more sleek and compact choices out there.

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

Portabrace HIP-EOSR Quick Specs

• Price: $139.00
• External size: 11 in x 3.5 in x 6.0 in
• Weight: 0.816 kg
• What Fits: A small mirrorless camera, lenses, small accessories
• Color: Black

If you're still not sure about these waist bags, then consider looking at our best selling camera backpack!

The Best Camera Holsters

A fanny pack camera bag isn’t the first to come to mind for a camera bag. Some prefer a camera and lens backpack and others prefer a waist camera bag. But the versatility, simplicity, and quick access it provides have led to it being a great choice for many. Did we miss any of your favorites? Think you’ve found the best waist pack camera bag? Let us know what makes them among the best camera waist bags in the comments below!

Did the fanny pack camera bag style catch your interest? Check out our recommendations for the best camera holsters as well!

Up Next: Best Camera Holsters →