We rounded up the most functional and mostly budget-friendly camera bags currently on the market, for videographers on the go.

Most filmmakers will need more than one camera bag on a shoot. That’s because they’re probably carrying one or more small, lightweight DSLR or mirrorless digital cameras with a few lenses, plus countless accessories. However, for those who have found success in the micro-budget, run-and-gun style of filmmaking, there are plenty of opportunities to knock out a project with minimal amount of equipment, and just one simple bag to carry it all.

We chose bags that work for the most minimal of setups, including a single camera (maybe two if you opt for a larger size) and just a smattering of small lenses, an audio recorder, and maybe a small shotgun microphone. Any other equipment — like a tripod, lighting gear, or on-set accessories — will need to travel separately.

If you’re an on-the-fly shooter, a travel videographers, or a YouTuber and/or content creators who prefers to keep things simple, these are your best run-and-gun camera bag options on the market.

Moment Rugged Sling

This is a new camera bag on the scene, and it’s pretty exciting. I really wish this had been out before I made my last purchase, as it looks to be a functional new take on the popular sling design that many videographers (and photographers) choose for quick-access shooting. This is one of the smaller options on our list, but it features a good deal of padding and the across-the-body sling design makes it super comfortable for long days. The organization is also innovative, with lots of modular flexibility for those looking to bring along anything else besides a few extra lenses.

Key Specs:

• One DSLR or mirrorless camera…
• Or up to three lenses
• Sling functionality

Price: $90

Vanguard VEO Discover 46

Like many of the camera bags on this list, the Vanguard VEO Discover 46 is a hybrid bag that can serve as either a backpack or a more accessible sling for quick access. And, while many of the bags on this list are designed for multipurpose camera operators who shoot both photo and video, I’ve found that these smaller “to-go” bags are some of the best when operating on a bare-bones production.

The VEO Discover 46 is a solid build and has a good amount of space for one camera and up to four lenses. It can also accommodate laptops or notebooks up to 13.3″, with plenty of room for any personal belongings you might need for short travel. I can see the VEO Discover 46 being perfect for a quick documentary-style shoot with your favorite camera, one or two lenses, and utilizing the other spaces for some simple audio gear.

Key Specs:

• One DSLR or mirrorless
• Up to four lenses (or other gear)
• 13.3″ laptop or notebook
• Multiple access points
• Backpack/sling functionality

Price: $99

Manfrotto Pro Light RedBee-110

Manfrotto’s Pro Light RedBee-110 comes from one of the more familiar brands on this list, and it might be one of the best heavy-duty options for videographers. With enough space for two CSC bodies, several lenses, and accessories, the RedBee-110 works great as a single bag for a quick shoot, or as a solid backpack to go along with the rest of your full production load out. A nice bonus for the RedBee-110 is the multiple access points for quickly grabbing different pieces of gear as needed on a shoot. (These points are even conveniently labeled with red highlights that are easy to pick out in low-light situations.)

Key Specs:

• Two DSLR or mirrorless
• Multiple lenses (or other gear)
• 13″ laptop or notebook
• Multiple access points
• Backpack functionality
• Side tripod connection

Price: $165

Lowepro Tahoe BP 150

Out of all the bags on our list, the Lowepro Tahoe BP 150 wins for the best look, with a strong design that should last a while, and great color options to boot. It’s also one of the most affordable abgs for its size. The body is quite skinny, so along with a large pocket for personal items or other accessories, it’s really only recommended for a regular DSLR or mirrorless camera and two lenses, at max. It’s an ideal companion for anyone planning to do any hiking or long travels, yet wanting to keep their camera safe and with enough critical gear to get plenty of solid video footage.

Key Specs:

• One DSLR or mirrorless
• Up to two lenses
• 15″ laptop or notebook
• Thick interior padding
• Backpack functionality

Price: $70

Think Tank Retrospective Backpack 15L

Finally, for those looking to get into rough-and-tumble videography adventures, Think Tank’s mammoth Retrospective Backpack 15L is a true workhorse. As its name implies, this backpack can hold up to 15L, with 5L dedicated to the top compartment for personal items, and plenty of room for a full camera kit (sans a tripod and lighting). It’s one of the few bags in which you could consider throwing a long telephoto lens — like a 70-200 — if you’re looking to shoot macro. (And there’s still room for a 15″ laptop!) Made from a durable canvas material and featuring multiple access points, it’s perhaps your best option for maximum carry load in a single bag.

Key Specs:

• One DSLR or mirrorless
• Up to four lenses
• 15″ laptop or notebook
• Multiple access points
• Backpack functionality

Price: $250

For more run-and-gun videography tips, tricks, and roundups, check out some of these articles below.

Cover image via Rawpixel.com.