Calumet WT3434 Watertight Hard Case £200, $265 (currency conversion)

The WT3434 is hardly petite, at 58 x 44 x 22cm (22.8 x 17.3 x 8.7in) inside, and you don’t get wheels to help with its hefty 8.2kg (18lbs) mass. Even the chunky rubber-coated handle isn’t enough to lighten this load, though extra handles on each end do mean that both arms – or a friend – can help you take the strain. Inside there’s space for serious amounts of gear, including a super-telephoto lens, all nestled in diced foam.

Four rugged catches, rather than the usual two, secure the lockable lid, ensuring that the neoprene seal is clamped tightly to keep out water and dust. Top notch material quality exudes robustness, helping the WT3434 take our overzealous abuse in its stride.