Top camera bag choices for Canon EOS 90D owners?

Question

So I finally upgraded to the Canon 90D last month and honestly I love the camera but finding a bag that actually fits this thing without being a total nightmare has been a massive headache. The 90D is way chunkier than my old Rebel and my current shoulder bag is literally bursting at the seams when I try to pack the 18-135mm kit lens and my 70-300mm zoom. I spent like three hours last night looking at reviews and I am just more confused than when I started.

I saw everyone recommending the Lowepro ProTactic 450 but it looks so bulky and tactical like I am going to war or something plus it is kinda out of my price range. Then I checked out the Peak Design Everyday Backpack because it looks sleek but then I read a bunch of forum posts saying the dividers are super frustrating for taller DSLR bodies like the 90D and they just kind of flop around and dont support the weight right.

I am planning a trip to Zion in three weeks and really need something reliable for hiking that wont break the bank—trying to stay under $150 if possible. I just want something that fits the body, two or three lenses, and maybe a water bottle without feeling like I have a giant rock strapped to my spine. Does anyone have a 90D setup they actually like for hiking? I am about ready to just wrap it in a towel and throw it in a regular backpack at this point...

harlemhustle · Accepted Answer

Regarding what #1 said about "Ugh, I feel your pain. The 90D is..."I definitely agree. Most gear manufacturers are pivoting so hard toward mirrorless that they're forgetting about the depth of a solid DSLR body like the 90D. I've tried many different setups over the years for hiking specifically. For Zion, you're gonna want something that keeps the weight high on your back and doesn't sag. In my experience, these are the most reliable options that actually fit your budget:Lowepro Flipside 300 AW III Camera BackpackThis is much more streamlined than the ProTactic. It has rear access, which is huge for hiking because you can flip it around to your front without taking it off. It fits my 90D with a lens attached plus the 70-300mm and a spare easily.Think Tank Photo StreetWalker V2.0 BackpackIf you want something that will literally last forever, this is it. It's very professional and methodical in its layout. The dividers are much stiffer than Peak Design's, so they won't collapse under the weight of a 90D.Tenba Solstice 20L BackpackThis is probably the best dedicated hiking option under $150. It has a great water bottle pocket and the harness is actually comfortable for long treks. The 90D is about 3 inches deep, so you really need a bag with at least 5 inches of internal depth to account for the padding. I'd go with the Tenba or the Lowepro for a trip like Zion... definitely dont just use a towel in a regular pack, you'll regret it about two miles into the Narrows.

Aaliyah Michelle Fleming · Answer

Ugh, I feel your pain. The 90D is such a chunky body compared to the older Rebels, and honestly, most modern bags are designed for those tiny mirrorless cameras now. I’ve had issues with so many popular bags that just couldn't handle the weight. I actually tried one of those expensive Peak Design ones and it was just not as good as expected for a DSLR. The dividers are basically paper thin... super disappointing when you've spent that much money and your gear is just sagging inside. For Zion, you definitely need something with actual support and safety. I’ve been using the Vanguard Alta Sky 45D Backpack and it’s been a lifesaver. It’s got real padding and it’s way safer for the 90D than those slim urban bags. If that’s pushing the budget too much, maybe look at the Manfrotto Advanced Active Backpack III. It’s usually under $100 and fits a body with the 70-300mm attached pretty easily without feeling like it's going to rip. Another one I liked but ended up returning only because I needed more lens space was the MindShift Gear PhotoCross 13 Backpack. It's rugged as heck for hiking, though the sling style can get tiring if you overpack it. Please dont do the towel thing tho... I tried that once and ended up with dust inside my sensor and it was a total nightmare to clean. Stay safe out there!