Five things to look out for

A good sling bag is All About compromise, so choose carefully

Size it up Most of the slings in this round-up are capable of carrying a full-frame DSLR body and at least two small lenses. Many bags can also be had in smaller sizes designed for mirrorless kit. Essential extras Though a sling is meant to carry just the essentials, most have room for a tablet, or a small laptop. Some also have mounting points for a tripod, and even a compact drone. Weather the storm Easy-access sling bags are well suited to life off the beaten track, but if you’re out in all weathers, ensure your chosen bag is weatherproof and has a separate rain cover. Strap in Some sling straps rest on your right shoulder, and some the left. This dictates which way you swing your sling to get access, and one direction may feel more natural to you than the other. Stabilizing influence With only a single strap, a sling bag can feel less secure on your back than a normal backpack. An additional waist or stabilizing strap will keep everything securely anchored.