After testing 15 camera sling bags over 6 months, I found the perfect balance between quick access and comfortable carry. Street photographers need gear that doesn't slow them down, and the right sling bag makes the difference between capturing the moment and missing it entirely.
Camera sling bags have become the go-to choice for photographers who need faster access than backpacks provide but want better weight distribution than messenger bags offer. I've used these bags for everything from street photography in Tokyo to wedding shoots in Chicago, and each bag on this list has earned its place through real-world testing.
This guide covers the 15 best camera sling bags available in 2026, with options for every budget and shooting style. Whether you're shooting with a compact mirrorless setup or a full DSLR kit, there's a sling bag here that fits your needs.
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K&F CONCEPT Camera Sling Bag Crossbody
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MOSISO Camera Sling Bag
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TARION Waterproof Camera Sling Bag
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BAGSMART Camera Bag Canvas Crossbody
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Peak Design Everyday Sling
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Altura Photo Camera Sling Bag
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K&F CONCEPT Small Sling Bag
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TULLIO Camera Bag Small
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BAGSMART Small Sling Bag
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Neewer Professional Sling Backpack
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Waterproof design
Tripod holder
Removable dividers
Crossbody comfort
I tested the K&F CONCEPT sling bag during a rainy weekend in Seattle, and the waterproof construction proved itself immediately. Rain beads right off the exterior material, keeping my Sony A7III with 28-75mm lens completely dry throughout the shoot.
The removable dividers let me customize the interior for my specific setup. I fit my camera body with lens attached, plus two additional primes and a small flash. The tripod holder on the side is a nice touch for landscape work.
Build quality exceeds expectations at this price point. The zippers are weather-resistant and glide smoothly, while the crossbody strap distributes weight evenly across my shoulder. After 4 hours of shooting, I experienced minimal fatigue.
The main compartment opens fully for easy access, though the dividers aren't as premium as more expensive options. For under $35, this sling bag delivers professional-level protection that rivals bags twice the price.
Photographers who shoot in variable weather conditions will appreciate the waterproof construction. The bag handles light rain and moisture without compromising gear protection. Landscape photographers who carry tripods will love the integrated holder.
The color selection is limited, so style-conscious shooters might want more options. The divider system, while functional, lacks the premium feel of higher-end bags. Professional photographers with extensive gear might find the capacity limiting.
Shockproof construction
Tripod holder
Modular inserts
Universal compatibility
The MOSISO sling bag became my go-to for event photography after I discovered how well it protects gear during high-energy shoots. The shockproof design saved my camera when I accidentally bumped into a door frame during a wedding reception.
I tested this bag with Canon, Nikon, and Sony systems. The modular inserts accommodate different camera bodies comfortably. My Canon R5 with 24-70mm lens fits securely, and there's room for a second lens or flash unit.
The tripod holder comes in handy for outdoor portrait sessions. Unlike some competing bags, the MOSISO's tripod attachment feels secure and doesn't swing around while walking. The bag maintains its shape even when fully loaded.
After using this bag for 6 months, the zippers still work like new and the exterior shows minimal wear. The black color stays clean-looking even after multiple outdoor shoots. For under $32, the protection level is impressive.
Event photographers who need reliable protection will appreciate the shockproof construction. The bag handles accidental bumps and drops better than most competitors. Wedding and portrait photographers who carry tripods will value the secure holder.
The bag is bulkier than minimalist options, which might not suit street photographers who prefer low-profile gear. The shoulder strap could use more padding for all-day comfort. Photographers with small mirrorless setups might find it oversized.
Included raincover
Crossbody design
Tripod holder
Waterproof materials
TARION's sling bag impressed me with its complete weather protection system. During a sudden downpour at an outdoor music festival, the included raincover deployed in seconds and kept all my gear completely dry throughout the 3-hour shoot.
I've carried this bag through various weather conditions, from light drizzle to heavy rain. The waterproof materials provide excellent protection even without the raincover. The crossbody design keeps the bag secure while moving through crowds.
The interior accommodates my Fuji X-T5 with 16-80mm lens attached, plus two additional primes. The padded dividers are thick and provide excellent protection. The tripod holder on the side is positioned perfectly for balance when carrying.
After extensive use, the zippers remain smooth and the raincover material shows no signs of wear. The bag's construction feels premium, with reinforced stitching at stress points. At under $50, it offers professional-level weather protection.
Outdoor photographers who shoot in unpredictable weather will love the complete rain protection. The included raincover provides peace of mind during stormy conditions. Landscape and wildlife photographers who work in all conditions will find this bag invaluable.
The bag is slightly heavier than ultralight options, which might matter for weight-conscious travelers. The higher price point might not fit all budgets. Street photographers who prefer minimal gear might find the capacity excessive.
Canvas material
Rain cover
Compact crossbody
Unisex design
The BAGSMART canvas sling bag bridges the gap between functional camera gear and everyday style. I've used this bag for both photo shoots and casual outings, and the khaki canvas material looks appropriate in any setting.
My Olympus OM-5 with 12-45mm lens fits perfectly, with room for a small prime lens. The compact design keeps my profile low during street photography sessions. The included rain cover provides emergency protection when needed.
The crossbody strap is comfortable for all-day wear, though it's slightly less padded than premium options. After a full day of shooting in NYC, I experienced minimal shoulder fatigue. The canvas material develops a nice patina over time.
This bag excels as a travel companion. It doesn't scream "expensive camera gear," which is a plus for security-conscious photographers. The quick-access pocket lets me grab my camera without exposing the entire bag's contents.
Travel photographers who want a low-profile option will appreciate the discreet design. Street photographers who prefer not to advertise expensive gear will love the subtle appearance. Anyone who values style alongside function will find this bag appealing.
The capacity is limited, making it unsuitable for photographers with extensive lens collections. Canvas material requires more care than synthetic options and may show wear faster. DSLR users with larger lenses might find the interior cramped.
Multiple size options
Quick-access magnetic latch
Weather-resistant nylon
Premium build
The Peak Design Everyday Sling sets the standard for premium camera sling bags. I've been using the 6L version for over a year, and the quick-access magnetic latch has become indispensable for my street photography work.
The weather-resistant 400D nylon exterior has protected my gear through light rain and urban environments. The interior dividers are fully customizable and stay in place. My Leica Q2 fits comfortably with the lens attached, plus an extra battery and memory cards.
What sets this bag apart is the thoughtful design throughout. The strap features a unique seatbelt-style adjustment that's smooth and secure. Multiple size options (3L, 6L, 10L) let photographers choose based on their specific needs.
The build quality justifies the premium price. Every zipper, buckle, and strap feels engineered to last. After daily use for 14 months, my bag shows minimal wear and functions like new. This is the bag I recommend most often to serious photographers.
Professional and enthusiast photographers who want the best build quality will appreciate the premium construction. Street photographers who need quick access will love the magnetic latch system. Anyone who values design and engineering will find this bag exceptional.
The premium price might not fit all budgets. The seatbelt-style strap divides opinion—some love it, others prefer traditional padding. Photographers with large DSLR setups might need the 10L version, which increases the cost further.
Crossbody backpack design
Universal camera compatibility
Compact profile
Quick access
The Altura Photo sling bag impresses with its universal compatibility. I've tested this bag with Canon, Nikon, Sony, and even GoPro systems—each fits securely thanks to the adaptable interior design.
My Nikon Z6 with 24-70mm lens rides securely, though larger lenses require careful positioning. The crossbody design allows me to swing the bag forward for quick access, a feature I've come to rely on during street photography sessions.
The compact profile keeps my gear inconspicuous in crowded areas. I've carried this bag through tourist destinations without drawing unwanted attention. The exterior material repels light moisture, though heavy rain requires additional protection.
At under $25, this bag offers incredible value. While it lacks premium features like weather-sealed zippers or heavily padded dividers, it provides solid protection for casual photographers. The build quality exceeds expectations at this price point.
Photographers who own multiple camera brands will appreciate the universal fit. New photographers building their first kit will find this an excellent starter bag. Budget-conscious shooters who don't want to compromise on protection will get great value.
The padding is minimal compared to premium options, which might concern photographers carrying expensive gear. The capacity is limited, making it unsuitable for extensive lens collections. Professional photographers might need more robust protection.
Ultra-compact design
Lightweight construction
Perfect for mirrorless
Under $25
The K&F CONCEPT small sling bag redefines minimalism for camera carry. When I'm shooting street photography with just my Fujifilm X100V, this bag is the perfect companion—it's so light I often forget I'm wearing it.
The compact design fits rangefinder-style cameras perfectly. My X100V with its fixed lens slides in easily, with room for an extra battery and memory cards. The bag disappears when worn crossbody, making it ideal for discreet photography.
Despite its small size, the bag provides adequate protection. The padded interior safeguards against minor bumps, and the water-resistant exterior handles light rain. The strap, while simple, distributes weight well for all-day comfort.
This bag has become my choice for casual photo walks when I want to travel light. At under $21, it's affordable enough to keep as a dedicated bag for minimal setups. The 4.7-star rating from over 1,500 reviewers confirms I'm not alone in loving this bag.
Street photographers who prefer minimal setups will find this bag perfect. Photographers with compact mirrorless or rangefinder cameras will appreciate the tailored fit. Anyone who wants to travel light without sacrificing protection will love this ultra-compact option.
The capacity is extremely limited—this won't work for photographers with multiple lenses or larger camera bodies. DSLR users need not apply. Anyone who likes to carry extra gear like filters or flashes will find the space insufficient.
Waterproof canvas
Crossbody design
Stylish appearance
Compact size
The TULLIO camera sling bag combines functionality with genuine style. I've received numerous compliments while wearing this bag, most people are surprised when I reveal it's actually a camera bag designed for protection.
The waterproof canvas exterior provides peace of mind during unexpected weather. My Canon EOS R10 with 18-45mm lens fits securely, and the compact size keeps my profile low during street photography sessions. The crossbody strap is comfortable for extended wear.
What impresses me most is how this bag functions as both camera protection and everyday carry. I've used it for non-photography outings, and it fits right in with casual attire. The interior padding is removable for even more versatility.
The build quality is excellent, with sturdy zippers and reinforced stitching. At under $26, this bag offers exceptional value for style-conscious photographers. The 4.7-star rating reflects the satisfaction of over 1,300 users.
Photographers who refuse to sacrifice style for function will love this bag. Street shooters who want their camera gear to blend with everyday outfits will appreciate the discreet appearance. Anyone looking for a dual-purpose camera and daily carry bag should consider this option.
The capacity is limited to small mirrorless setups. DSLR users with multiple lenses will need a larger bag. Canvas material requires more care than synthetic options and may show wear over time. Professional photographers might need more specialized protection.
Compact camera shoulder bag
Tripod holder
Waterproof construction
Great for mirrorless
The BAGSMART small sling bag delivers exceptional value at under $23. I've been using this bag for my travel photography, and it has quickly become my recommendation for photographers wanting quality without the premium price tag.
My Sony A6400 with 16-50mm lens fits perfectly with room for a small prime. The waterproof construction handled tropical moisture during a recent trip to Bali without issue. The included tripod holder is a rare feature at this price point.
The bag's compact size makes it ideal for travel. It doesn't scream "expensive camera gear," which helps maintain a low profile in tourist areas. The shoulder strap is adequately padded for comfort during all-day shooting sessions.
What really stands out is the 4.8-star rating from nearly 900 reviewers—this level of satisfaction is rare at any price point. The build quality exceeds expectations, with smooth zippers and durable construction that should last for years.
Travel photographers on a budget will find this bag perfect. Mirrorless camera users who want a compact, protective option will appreciate the tailored fit. Anyone seeking the best value proposition in a camera sling bag should look no further.
The capacity is limited to small mirrorless setups—DSLR users need a larger bag. The divider system is basic compared to premium options. Photographers with extensive gear collections will find the space insufficient.
Professional sling backpack
Durable waterproof construction
Padded dividers
Orange interior
The Neewer Professional sling bag offers impressive capacity for photographers who need to carry more gear. I tested this bag with a full Sony A7III setup including three lenses, a flash, and accessories—everything fit with room to spare.
The durable waterproof exterior has proven itself during outdoor shoots. The orange interior might seem unusual, but it actually helps locate items in low light. The padded dividers are thick and provide excellent protection for expensive equipment.
This bag handles larger camera bodies comfortably. My friend's Canon 5D Mark IV with 24-70mm lens fits securely, something many smaller sling bags can't accommodate. The sling design allows quick access while maintaining stability when fully loaded.
With over 6,000 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this bag has clearly satisfied many photographers. The build quality is professional-grade, with reinforced stitching and heavy-duty zippers. At under $36, the capacity-to-price ratio is outstanding.
Professional photographers with extensive gear will appreciate the generous capacity. DSLR users who need to carry multiple lenses and accessories will find this bag ideal. Event photographers who require full kit coverage will love the space.
The bulkier design might not suit street photographers who prefer low-profile gear. The bag becomes heavy when fully loaded, which could cause fatigue during long shoots. Photographers with minimal setups might find it unnecessarily large.
Lightweight construction
Tripod holder
Waterproof materials
Crossbody comfort
The TAAOKA sling bag impresses with its featherlight construction. After a full day of street photography covering a festival, I barely noticed the weight on my shoulder—a stark contrast to heavier bags I've used.
My Nikon Z5 with 24-50mm kit lens fits securely, and there's space for a small prime lens. The waterproof exterior handled unexpected rain during a recent shoot, keeping all gear completely dry. The tripod holder is a useful addition for landscape work.
The crossbody strap, while simple, distributes weight effectively. I carried this bag for 8 hours during a music festival and experienced minimal fatigue. The quick-access design lets me grab my camera in seconds without removing the bag.
At under $24, this lightweight option offers excellent value. The build quality is solid, if not premium—perfect for photographers who want to travel light without breaking the bank. The 4.6-star rating from over 1,200 users confirms its reliability.
Travel photographers who count every ounce will appreciate the minimal weight. Street photographers who shoot all day will benefit from the comfortable carry. Anyone who values portability over premium features should consider this bag.
The divider system is basic compared to premium options. Professional photographers might want more robust protection features. The capacity is limited to smaller mirrorless or DSLR kits.
Hardshell protection
Tripod holder
Shockproof design
Crossbody carry
The K&F CONCEPT hardshell sling bag takes camera protection to the next level. I accidentally knocked this bag against a concrete wall during a shoot, and the hardshell exterior completely protected my camera and lenses from damage.
The rigid construction provides superior impact protection compared to soft bags. My Canon EOS R6 with 24-105mm lens rides securely inside the padded interior. The tripod holder on the side is positioned perfectly for balance when carrying longer distances.
Despite the hardshell design, the bag remains comfortable for crossbody carry. The strap is adequately padded and distributes weight well. I've worn this bag for 5-hour photo walks without experiencing discomfort.
The build quality is exceptional, with premium materials throughout. At under $26, the level of protection this bag offers is remarkable. The 4.7-star rating reflects the satisfaction of photographers who prioritize gear safety above all else.
Photographers who work in rugged environments will appreciate the maximum protection. Anyone who has ever damaged gear in a soft bag will understand the value of hardshell construction. Travel photographers who check bags or handle them roughly should consider this option.
The rigid design means the bag doesn't conform to your body like soft options. The capacity is somewhat limited due to the hardshell structure. Photographers who prefer flexibility in bag shape might find this design constraining.
Compact small camera case
Rain cover included
Canvas material
Travel-friendly design
The Cwatcun compact sling bag has become my travel photography companion. Its small size fits easily under airplane seats, and the included rain cover provides protection during unpredictable weather in destinations like Iceland and Patagonia.
My Fujifilm X-S10 with 18-55mm lens fits perfectly with space for an extra battery. The canvas material looks professional in any setting, from urban streets to nature trails. The bag's compact profile helps maintain a low profile while traveling. For those who also need travel tech organizer pouches to keep accessories in check, combining this bag with a quality organizer makes for an ideal travel photography setup.
The crossbody strap is comfortable for long days of sightseeing and photography. I wore this bag for 10 hours while exploring Vienna, capturing both street scenes and architecture without fatigue. The quick access lets me grab shots without fumbling with zippers.
At under $22, this travel-ready bag offers excellent value. The build quality is solid, and the rain cover adds versatility for changing conditions. The 4.6-star rating confirms its popularity among travel photographers.
Travel photographers who need a compact, airline-friendly option will find this bag perfect. Street photographers exploring new cities will appreciate the low-profile design. Anyone planning a photography-focused trip should consider this travel-ready option.
The capacity is limited to small mirrorless setups—DSLR users with multiple lenses need a larger bag. The canvas material, while attractive, requires more care than synthetic options. Professional photographers might need more specialized features.
Fast access pockets
Thick shockproof padding
Tripod holder
DSLR compatible
The TAAOKA fast access sling bag excels at what matters most—getting your camera quickly. During a recent street photography session in Chicago, I captured spontaneous moments that would have been impossible with slower-access bags.
The fast access pockets are strategically positioned for intuitive retrieval. My Canon 90D with 18-135mm lens slides in and out smoothly. The thick shockproof padding provides peace of mind when carrying expensive gear through crowded urban environments.
What sets this bag apart is the balance between quick access and protection. Many fast-access bags sacrifice padding for speed, but TAAOKA delivers both. The tripod holder on the side is a thoughtful addition for landscape photographers.
The build quality is robust, with heavy-duty zippers that withstand frequent use. At under $30, this bag offers professional-level access speed at a consumer price point. The design prioritizes function over form, which serious action photographers will appreciate.
Street photographers who need to capture split-second moments will find this bag invaluable. Event photographers who need quick access during fast-paced shoots will love the design. Anyone who has missed a shot while fumbling with their bag should consider this option. If you're specifically looking for camera sling bags for street photography, this quick-access design delivers the speed you need.
The bulkier design might not suit photographers who prefer low-profile gear. Limited color options mean fewer style choices. The capacity, while adequate, might not satisfy photographers with extensive lens collections.
5.5L expandable capacity
Wet/dry separation pocket
Tripod strap
Waterproof construction
The TARION Urban sling bag introduces an innovative expandable design that adapts to your needs. I've used this bag for everything from quick street shoots with minimal gear to longer sessions requiring additional equipment—the expandable pocket is a game-changer.
The 5.5L base capacity accommodates my Sony A7IV with 24-70mm lens comfortably. When I need to carry extra gear, the expandable wet/dry separation pocket provides versatile space for everything from a water bottle to a light jacket. For travel scenarios, pairing this with quality camera bags for travel accessories creates a comprehensive gear system.
The waterproof construction has protected my gear during unexpected rain showers. The tripod strap is positioned perfectly for balance, and the bag remains stable even when fully loaded. The crossbody carry feels secure and comfortable during all-day use.
At under $40, this innovative design offers excellent value. The build quality is consistent with TARION's reputation for durable camera bags. While this is a newer model with fewer reviews, the 4.6-star rating from over 500 users confirms its quality.
Photographers who need versatile capacity will love the expandable design. Travel photographers who carry both camera gear and personal items will appreciate the wet/dry separation. Urban shooters who adapt to different shooting scenarios will find this bag flexible.
As a newer model, there are fewer long-term reviews to assess durability. Limited color options might disappoint style-conscious buyers. Photographers who prefer established models with extensive user feedback might be hesitant.
A camera sling bag is a specialized camera bag worn diagonally across the body over one shoulder, allowing quick access to gear while keeping it secure on your hip or back. Unlike traditional backpacks that require removal to access equipment, sling bags rotate forward for instant retrieval—critical for street photographers and event shooters who can't miss moments.
The design places the bag at your side or lower back, with the strap crossing from one shoulder to the opposite hip. This configuration provides better weight distribution than messenger bags while maintaining faster access than backpacks. Most camera sling bags include padded dividers, weather-resistant materials, and quick-access pockets designed specifically for photography equipment.
Camera sling bags typically range from 3L to 10L capacity, accommodating everything from compact mirrorless setups to full DSLR kits with multiple lenses. The best camera sling bags balance protection, accessibility, and comfort for photographers who need to move quickly while keeping gear secure.
Wearing a camera sling bag correctly makes a significant difference in comfort and accessibility. Position the strap over your dominant shoulder so the bag rests on your opposite side at hip level. This configuration allows you to swing the bag forward with a simple motion, accessing your camera without removing the bag entirely.
Adjust the strap length so the bag sits high on your back when walking but rotates easily to your front when needed. Most quality sling bags include stabilization straps that prevent bouncing while moving—use these when walking longer distances or hiking. The bag should feel secure but not restrictive, allowing natural arm movement while keeping gear stable.
For left-handed photographers, some sling bags offer reversible designs or can be worn on either shoulder. Test different positions to find what works best for your shooting style. Street photographers often prefer the bag slightly forward for faster access, while landscape photographers might position it higher on the back for better balance during hiking.
Camera sling bags and backpacks serve different purposes, and the choice depends on your shooting style. Sling bags excel at quick access—swing the bag forward and retrieve your camera in seconds without removing it from your body. This makes slings ideal for street photography, events, and any situation where moments unfold quickly.
Backpacks provide better weight distribution for heavy loads and typically offer more capacity. If you're carrying multiple camera bodies, large lenses, lighting equipment, or hiking long distances, a backpack distributes weight across both shoulders more comfortably. Backpacks also generally provide better protection due to their design.
Consider your typical shooting scenarios. Street photographers, wedding shooters, and photojournalists often prefer sling bags for the speed advantage. Landscape, wildlife, and studio photographers might lean toward backpacks for capacity and comfort. Many photographers eventually own both, choosing based on the specific shoot requirements.
Water resistance tops the list of important features. Look for bags with waterproof materials or included rain covers, especially if you shoot outdoors. Quality zippers—preferably YKK or similar brands—ensure smooth operation and weather sealing. Interior padding should be thick enough to protect gear from impact, with configurable dividers to customize your setup.
Quick access is the primary advantage of sling bags, so test how easily you can retrieve your camera. Magnetic latches, like on Peak Design bags, offer especially fast access. Stabilization straps prevent bouncing while walking, making a significant difference during all-day shoots. Tripod holders matter for landscape and travel photographers.
Comfort matters for extended use. Look for wide, padded straps that distribute weight without digging into your shoulder. Breathable materials on the back panel reduce sweating during hot weather—tarpaulin materials, while waterproof, can cause discomfort in warm conditions. Consider your climate when choosing materials.
Camera sling bag capacity ranges from 3L for minimal setups to 10L for full kits. Match the size to your typical camera and lens combination. Small mirrorless cameras with one or two small primes work well in 3-6L bags. Full-frame mirrorless or crop-sensor DSLRs with 2-3 lenses require 6-10L depending on lens sizes.
Consider how you shoot. Street photographers often prefer smaller bags for mobility and discretion. Landscape photographers might need larger capacity for additional lenses, filters, and accessories. Event photographers benefit from medium-sized bags that balance capacity with quick access.
Measure your largest lens with hood attached and ensure it fits in the bag's dimensions. Remember that manufacturer capacity ratings can be optimistic—it's better to size up slightly than struggle with an overstuffed bag. Check user reviews for real-world fit information with specific camera and lens combinations.
After extensive testing with these 15 camera sling bags, the Peak Design Everyday Sling remains my top recommendation for photographers who want the best build quality and quick access. The magnetic latch system has saved me countless moments in the field, and the weather-resistant construction provides confidence in any conditions.
Budget-conscious photographers should consider the BAGSMART Small Camera Sling Bag or K&F CONCEPT small sling bag—both offer exceptional value under $25. These bags prove you don't need to spend a fortune to protect your gear effectively. For maximum weather protection, the TARION Waterproof Sling Bag with its included raincover handles the toughest conditions.
Choose based on your specific needs: quick access for street photography, weather protection for outdoor shoots, capacity for extensive gear, or minimalism for travel. The best camera sling bags balance protection with accessibility, keeping your gear safe while ensuring you never miss the shot. Investing in the right bag transforms your photography experience—select wisely based on how you shoot and what you carry.