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10 Best Photographer Vests & Jackets to Carry Your Camera Gear

A photo vest can be a handy way to carry all your camera accessories, allowing you to move more freely than when carrying a camera bag. Here are 10 of the best.

Accessory Guides | Camera Gear Guides | By Usnea Lebendig

Depending on the type of photography you do, a photographer vest can be a handy way to carry all your camera accessories .

Photo vests allow you to move more freely than when carrying a camera bag, with the weight distributed across your upper body.

They also keep your hands free so you can operate your camera more easily.

The best photography vests are colored to blend into your surroundings, have multiple large pockets to store all your items, and are durable enough to withstand adverse weather conditions.

So, whether you’re a wildlife photographer on safari or just don’t want to carry a traditional camera bag, a photographer vest could be just what you’re looking for.

Let’s take a look at the top photo vests of the year.

Table of Contents

Best Photographer Vests in 2024

1. humvee cotton safari vest.

For summer adventures, the Humvee Cotton Safari photographer’s vest offers the best bang for the buck. Reasonably priced, 100% cotton, and featuring no less than 21 pockets, the Humvee has more than enough room for your entire kit.

The larger pockets easily hold moderately-sized telephoto lenses ( like a 70-200mm ), while the layout of the smaller pockets makes it easy to get to your smaller camera accessories. There’s also a large pocket on the backside that can hold a large lens or extra clothing.

While the cotton fabric itself is not waterproof, the many pockets are nylon-lined to help keep things dry.

Also, if you intend to wear the Humvee in hotter climates, be sure to avoid black – the material is fairly breathable, but you’ll definitely notice a difference in warmth between black and khaki,

2. Flygo Summer Vest

The best budget photography vest, the Flygo Summer Vest retails for under $30, yet can carry more stuff than the average camera bag.

It has fewer pockets than the Humvee, but its 16 pockets have more than enough capacity for the average kit (1-2 extra lenses, memory cards , spare batteries, etc.)

Originally designed as a lightweight fishing vest, much of the fabric on the Flygo is mesh making it the perfect companion on hot summer days when you really need to wear something breathable.

Note: Make sure to order a few sizes larger than you normally would – the sizes run small.

3. Rothco Uncle Milty Travel Vest

Looking for a durable vest with long-term staying power? The Uncle Milty is a photo vest that won’t break the wallet but can hold up through even the toughest adventures.

The material is only partially cotton and there’s no mesh, so it’s not quite as breathable as the Humvee or the Flygo – but it’s definitely more durable.

The carrying capacity is about the same as the other two photo vests: it features four large zippered pockets on the outside, a host of smaller velcro pockets for smaller accessories, and a zippered pocket across the backside of this vest that can hold a graphite tripod, tablet, or extra jacket.

Many photographers love this vest, both how it feels on the shoulders and the fact that it holds up well after a lot of use.

4. M&M Photography Travel Vest

The M&M travel photography vest was designed with both street photography and international travel in mind.

It comes with 14 pockets (2 inside and 12 outside), a hydration sleeve for a 2-3 liter hydration system, and a camera strap. (If you like to carry two bodies you can always order an extra camera strap.)

The photographers’ vest itself has military-grade build quality. Well-stitched, with durable hardware and YKK zippers, this vest will last you a VERY long time. The sides are adjustable and even have a space for carrying a tripod.

It’s made in the US by the Vest Guy – one of the top makers of photography vests in the US – and has a lifetime warranty…but it’s unlikely you’ll need to use it any time soon!

At around $220, this photographer’s vest is more than worth the money!

5. Urban 5 Mesh Photo Vest 

Another great photo vest from the Vest Guy, the Urban 5 Photo Vest is made from nylon breathable mesh and considerably lighter than the M&M.

Otherwise, it’s pretty similar, with attachments for carrying either one or two camera bodies, large pockets specifically designed for lenses and camera flashes , and plenty of smaller pockets so that you can easily store your wallet, memory cards, and other accessories. There’s even a MOLLE system.

The large-capacity lens pockets can hold most telephoto lenses , or, if you have smaller items, you can use the pocket dividers to keep things organized. The material – even the mesh – is fantastically durable and will likely last a lifetime.

Like most Vest Guy camera vests, the Urban 5 comes with plenty of optional upgrades, a hydration sleeve, and a lifetime warranty.

6. Billingham PhotoVest

Looking for a more elegant look? Try the Billingham Photo Vest photographer vest jacket. It’s made in true British style and can carry more photography equipment in its unassuming pockets than many camera bags.

The vest itself is comfortable, lightweight, and cut a bit shorter than most photo vests so the gear in the lower pockets won’t hit against your legs or any gear on your belt.

All of the large capacity pockets are extra wide, with the lower lens pockets able to fit a flagship camera body like the Nikon D4s with a 50mm lens attached.

Unlike some of the other photo vests in this list, the Billingham Photo Vest has the same pocket layout on both sides, making it easier to get an even weight distribution.

At just under $300, this vest is quite pricey but again, well worth it!

7. Country Innovation Raptor Waistcoat

Another photo vest made with true English style, the Raptor waistcoat is a workhorse. It’s made from heavily reinforced military-grade Rip-Tec ripstop material and can hold a huge amount of equipment in its generous 15 pockets.

The two expandable cargo pockets can hold a camera body the size of a Canon 1Dx with an attached L-bracket or a nicely-sized telephoto lens.

The upper chest pockets can hold smaller lenses and/or binoculars. One of the internal pockets is big enough to carry a tablet and the rear pouch is perfect for a jacket or other spare layers.

Other features include shoulder padding, a substantial neck collar, and has side tabs to help keep the vest in place when twisting or turning.

Fantastic for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and everyday outdoor photography .

8. Country Innovation Traveller II Jacket

When it comes to protection from the elements during outdoor photography, there are few things that can beat a solid photography jacket.

The Country Innovation Traveller II photographer jacket has everything you can want for shooting in a cold and/or wet climate: comfort, style, warmth, waterproofing, and plenty of pockets.

The Traveller II  is made with material that is both windproof and breathable – water instantly beads off the waterproof exterior, keeping everything inside dry.

The full-vision, detachable hood is particularly nice. You can adjust the hood to whatever you’re wearing, whether it be a helmet, hat, or nothing at all, all while maintaining full visibility.

An award-winning jacket, many photographers say this is the best jacket they have ever bought – both for photography and as an everyday raincoat.

With a total of 12 well-sized pockets, ample warmth, and the perfect blend of waterproofing and breathability, the Traveler II is a great choice for any outdoor adventure in cold or wet weather.

9. Langly Field Jacket

Need a photo jacket that’s not only stylish and functional but also bomb-proof? Take a look at the Langly Photography Field Jacket.

Based on the M-65 field jacket used during the Vietnam War, the Langly Field Jacket’s style works equally well in the city, on the road, or out in the field, all while offering serious protection from the elements.

The outer fabric is made of a waterproof micro rip-stop material that instantly sheds water, while the large underarm vents and adjustable hood and cuffs allow your body to breathe.

The multitude of pockets is reinforced, with the four larger pockets lined with RFID-blocking material to help keep the info on your passport, credit cards, and other travel documents safe.

There’s also an optional five-piece accessory kit that clips to the jacket. It contains lens wipes, a memory card holder, a battery/film holder, a lens cap holder, and a lens filter holder.

If you’re looking for urban style that’s bombproof, this is where it’s at – click the button above to see if this stylish photography jacket is still on sale.

10. Country Innovation Aperture Jacket

If you like the style of the Raptor waistcoat but wish there was a winter version, the Country Innovation Aperture cameraman jacket might be just what you’re looking for.

Developed primarily for wildlife photographers and birders, the Aperture jacket exudes quality in both the material and craftsmanship.

The heavyweight, rustle-free outer fabric repels briars, thorns, and brambles with ease. The waterproof lining and water-repellant front zipper keeps out cold, wind, and rain.

The upper and lower front pockets are expandable to the point of holding a medium-format setup. There are also plenty of medium-sized and smaller pockets for holding things like spotting scopes for birding and all the incidentals.

The Aperture is available in many different sizes and there’s a full sizing chart on the Country Innovation website to help you choose the jacket that’s right for you.

Pricey, but one of the nicest photography jackets on the market in 2024.

8 Benefits of Using a Photographer Vest

• Keeps equipment super handy – Photography vests keep all of your camera gear within hand’s reach. There’s no taking a pack on and off or swinging it around to get at your kit. You also don’t have to twist and turn to get to your camera gear – it’s all right in front of you.
• You have your gear with you at all times – With a photography vest or jacket, you can walk away a few meters to get a different angle and all of your photo gear will stay with you. There’s no missing a shot because you had to return to your camera bag to get something.
• Many are custom-designed for silence – Many photo vests and jackets are designed for wildlife photography, the fabric will be made to keep rustling at a minimum. Some photo vests are also velcro-free, which is important when trying to be wildlife-friendly.
• Evenly distribute weight –  A well-made photography vest will evenly distribute weight throughout your shoulders.
• Don’t worry about too much weight in your carry-on when flying – Don’t want to pay extra for checked baggage? No problem! Stash all of your photography equipment into the pockets of a photo vest and save your carry-on for personal items. Wearing your camera equipment is also a great way to avoid carry-on weight restrictions.
• Super Versatile! – Photographer’s vests can be used for much more than photography! The plethora of pockets makes them an ideal companion for fishing, hiking and camping, or any other activity where you need to carry lots of stuff with you.
• You’ll never have to put your gear down! – Tired of putting your camera bag down on muddy or wet ground? Wear a photo vest and everything will stay clean and safe…well, unless you’re lying on the ground as well…
• Fast access – Extricating your gear from the pockets of a photographer’s vest – is much quicker than getting something out of a camera bag.

Final Words

While some photographers may eschew photography vests and jackets as “not hip” or  “too obvious” or even just too geeky, there are definitely huge benefits that come along with them – especially if you’re a wildlife photographer.

What outdoor photographer hasn’t left their camera backpack a few feet away from them and then felt annoyed that they had to walk back to change lenses?

Or set their pack down at the beach only to see that the tide was coming in and their pack wasn’t in the safest of places? W

earing a photo vest nullifies both of these situations.

Of course, if crawling on the ground or climbing trees is part of how you land fantastic shots, a photo vest may not be the best idea.

Otherwise, try one out. Many photographers who try out a photo vest or jacket – even reluctantly – often like them so much they ditch the camera bag.

One thing to keep in mind, though, when buying a photo vest: make sure to pay attention to the manufacturer size charts, as figuring out the right size may not be as simple as you think.

When in doubt, choose a size larger than you think you need. Many of the better quality vests will have drawstring waists and/or straps on the sides to tighten things up.

Let’s hear from you: What’s your preference? Camera bag or photo vest?

Note: Two other excellent photography jackets – Stealth Gear Extreme Photographers Jacket2  and Domke Photogs Convertible Jacket/Vest – would have been included in this list, but they’re no longer available.

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Usnea Lebendig is an experienced photographer and reviewer who loves to photograph professionally and in moments where the world’s beauty and/or strangeness leaps in front of the lens.

11 Comments

Billingham stopped manufacturing vests in 2013.

While I agree that the Billingham vest is great, they were discontinued in 2013. It’s unlikely you’ll find one except on the secondary market.

Agree great vest but secondary market would be the place to look.

Alana Bellinger on behalf of The Tiffen Company here – the just released a new DOMKE PhoTOGS Vest last week! See link below!

https://tiffen.com/pages/domke-photogs-vest-edu

Newswear Chest Vest is awesome. Carries a lot and distributes weight evenly. Looks a little like a “bomb vest”. From a certain angle. Newswear.com

Thanks Nick! I’ll look into them!

Oh how the rest of the world laughs when they call them Fanny Packs Mind you, we call them Bumbags, but at least that’s better than the former for the rest of the world

I can personally vouch for the Humvee vest (mine is in black. Comfortable (for a tactical vest) and takes wear and abuse very well. Not only is it useful for a lot of photo excursions where you don’t want to put a bag down (like: a boat or dugout canoe, or a dusty vehicle on safari) but it’s incredibly helpful for travel. My first photo trip to Africa, they concluded my bag was overweight. I ultimately ended up taking my vest out, wearing it, stuffing it full of stuff and that lightened my luggage sufficiently to fix that problem. I had to do the same tactic for a flight from South Africa to Botswanna.

Wow! How much weight did you end up transferring to your vest? Did you transfer it back to your carryon once you boarded? I can’t help but think it would be uncomfortable doing a long flight fully loaded like that…

Don’t forget ScotteVest.com… https://www.scottevest.com . They have a great selection with lots of pockets and I have many of them covering winter and summer wear.

Thanks Peter! Were any of the pockets big enough for DSLR lenses?

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7 Best Photographer Vests and Jackets in 2024 (Updated)

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The best photographer vest solves several problems at once. It provides easy access to a wide range of items. It frees your hands to focus on operating your camera. And it keeps your gear evenly distributed on your torso, which is better for your back. These considerations are what we looked at while choosing the best photographer vest.

Our top pick is hugely practical and has a bit of military chic about it. We think it offers great value for money, great design, and long-lasting materials. The Spanye Men’s Black Utility Vest is a great choice if you’re looking for the best photographer vest.

If you buy a product through one of our referral links we will earn a commission (without costing you anything). Prices last updated on .

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What Is a Photographer Vest?

We’ve put together a range of vests and jackets. They range from entry-level prices to full-on extreme weather gear. Some are lightweight, some are waterproof. Some emphasize style, others are focused on practicality. And all of them are excellent in their own way.

Before we look in detail at the choices we’ve made, here is a summary of all our recommendations.

• 100% nylon construction
• Range of 17 colors
• 16 pockets of various sizes
• Lightweight, breathable fabric
• 550-fill goose down insulation for warmth
• DryVent shell with sealed seams for waterproofing
• Relaxed fit for layering and comfort
• Convertible design with adjustable cuff tabs
• Lightweight and quick-drying fabric
• Multi-pocketed gilet
• 20/80 cotton/polyester for comfort and strength
• Available in 15 colors

• 90/10 polyester/cotton for strength and comfort
• 6 zippered pockets
• Understated style
• Lightweight and comfortable

• 42 pockets - 40 are concealed
• Water bottle pocket
• RFID-safe pocket for security
• Detachable keychain

• 21 pockets with excellent variety of sizes
• D-rings, mesh pockets, and epaulets
• Pen pockets and large patch pockets
• 100% cotton for comfort

• 55/45 cotton/polyester mix for comfort and durability
• Huge 17 x 11-inch rear pocket
• 17 pockets in total
• Belt loop for comfort

Choosing the Right Photographer Vest

As you can see, there is quite a range out there. But here are the details of each recommendation. And why we think they are worth your consideration.

1. Spanye Men’s Black Utility Vest

This Spanye 100% nylon photo vest is a durable, tear-resistant, and versatile option. It’s lightweight, breathable, and washable. You can wear it for any activity from photography to fishing, hiking, or traveling.

It has multiple zippers and flip pockets that you can store any kind of gear in. These pockets have a large capacity, so you can easily carry smaller camera bodies or lenses in them.

You can find pockets on the inside to keep your most important things safe. D-rings also allow you to store things for easy access.

It comes in two styles and 15 colors. So you have a lot of designs to choose from. Photography vests usually don’t come in so many colors. So if you’d like to stand out from others, choose from these color options.

The Spanye vest is even available in fluorescent green. This can be practical in bad or other extreme situations.

2. The North Face Men’s McMurdo Parka III

The North Face Men’s McMurdo Parka III  is a photographer jacket. This is the perfect photography jacket for colder weather.

It’s a really cool-looking jacket that’s also practical. It’s waterproof, made with a DryVent shell, and has sealed seams. It also allows water vapor to escape, so it’s breathable.

There is an internal pocket to keep your important documents or gadgets safe and warm.

The external pockets are large, so you can fit sizable pieces of equipment in them. It’s not going to be enough for carrying several camera bodies or lenses. But if you go out with one camera, you can easily store everything you need.

Handwarmer pockets are also beneficial. You’ll enjoy your time outdoors more with warm hands. But it also makes using the buttons and menus on your camera easier. It’s not cheap, but the North Face Men’s McMurdo Parka III will protect you in almost any weather.

3. Gihuo Men’s Outdoor Fishing Vest

If you are looking for a lightweight yet durable photography vest, this Gihuo Men’s Outdoor Fishing Vest might be the one for you. It’s also a multifunctional vest. You can use it for fishing, traveling, or any outdoor adventures.

This vest is 20% cotton and 80% polyester. It’s moderately waterproof and quick drying. It won’t fully protect you from heavy rains, but it can keep your gear safe in a light drizzle.

It comes with 16 pockets. That’s enough space for your personal items and smaller pieces of camera equipment . These pockets are not bulky, so the vest feels comfortable even if you have to wear it for a long time.

The Gihuo vest is available in 15 colors, so it’s another vest that offers you more style options.

4. Beat the World Men's 9 Pocket Utility Vest for Travel & Work

This Beat the World Men’s 9 Pocket Utility Vest is a subtle yet fashionable choice. It’s 90% polyester and 10% cotton, which means it’s lightweight.

There are 11 different colors to choose from. The pockets are well-constructed, but not too big. You probably won’t be able to fit your bigger lens in them, but smaller ones can be easily carried.

You’ll still need to carry your bigger pieces of equipment with you in a bag or on a camera strap . But this Beat the World Vest helps you by keeping your smaller accessories easy to access. And there is an internal pocket that’s perfect for storing your wallet.

5. SCOTTeVEST Women’s Q.U.E.S.T. Travel Vest

This SCOTTeVEST Women’s Q.U.E.S.T. Travel Ves t is a surprising piece. At first sight, it looks like a simple vest with a clear-cut design. But if you look closely, you can see that it has 42 pockets. Yes, 42!

It comes in two colors—beige and black. They’re timeless enough so you can wear them to any occasion.

It’s perfect for carrying your camera gear, passport, or tablet. This makes it suitable for travel photography as well.

It has 18 interior pockets that help you keep your valuables safe.

It has small practical features. It has things like an eyeglass cleaning cloth, a detachable keychain, and a water bottle holder. It also comes with a hood that can be folded and hidden.

There is even an RFID wallet pocket that prevents credit card skimming.

And last but not least, the SCOTTeVEST Women’s Q.U.E.S.T. Travel Vest has a weight management system. That prevents you from being uncomfortable with your gadgets weighing down your pockets.

6. CampCo Humvee Safari Vest

The Humvee Cotton Safari Vest is 100% cotton, so it’s ideal even in hot weather. Along with photography, it can also be used for hiking, camping, or fishing.

It comes with nylon-lined pockets so you can keep your valuables dry. The hooks, D-rings, elastic, and snap epaulet pockets make organizing your gear easy. There are 21 pockets to keep your gear in, so there’s plenty of room.

It’s available in two colors—khaki and black. The black one might be better for photographing on the streets or indoors . And khaki might be better in nature.

Note that the Humvee Vests run large to allow you to stuff all 21 pockets. So if you don’t plan to carry a lot of things, maybe try a smaller size.

7. Rothco Uncle Milty Travel Vest, Black, X-Small

This Rothco Uncle Milty vest has enough pockets for all your gear. Maybe a tripod wouldn’t fit in it, but you can carry lenses or smaller camera bodies in it. And if you’re a documentary photographer or photojournalist , you could store your notebook in this.

It has 13 front, one rear, and three inside pockets.

The expandable pocket on its back has a side zipper closure. Here you can fit a sweatshirt or anything else you wish. The D-rings found on both sides allow you to clip small items and carry them without a bag.

You can purchase this photographer vest in three different colors—olive, black, or khaki. Maybe black is more versatile as it fits more situations than others. But with three choices, you can find the one that best suits your style.

The Uncle Milty is made of 55% cotton and 45% polyester, so it’s durable.

Do You Need a Photographer Vest?

Photographer vests can be very helpful while shooting. Read on to see if it’s the right choice for you.

What Are Photographer Vests and Jackets?

A photographer vest or jacket is a piece of clothing that makes carrying your camera gear easier.

They come with different-sized pockets and straps. They provide solutions to situations where it’s not possible to carry a camera bag . You’ll find them the most useful if you are into photojournalism , adventure, or wildlife photography .

They all have different features and they are made of different materials. So you’ll have to decide which best fits your needs. So you’ll need to consider size, comfort, and durability.

The price range is wide, so you’ll find something that fits your budget.

Why Do You Need a Photography Vest or Jacket?

With a vest or a jacket, you might only need a small camera bag, or perhaps none at all. They are ideal when you are photographing in crowds and it would be hard to move with a huge bag on your back.

They are also designed to distribute the weight of equipment equally so that the photographer is comfortable. You don’t have to stand with a bag strap on one shoulder for long periods. And they’re usually lightweight, which adds to mobility.

Also, you can reach small accessories quickly. Keeping all your memory cards in one pocket and your cleaning cloth in another ensures that you can grab them easily.

This is what makes these vests ideal for wildlife photography. Besides having to move a lot in nature, you also want to be silent. It’s quicker and quieter to reach in one of your pockets than having to open a bag.

They are also great against harsh weather conditions. They keep you warm. But they also protect your gear and your body heat prevents your equipment from getting too cold.

What I also like about them is that they can look professional. If you see people wearing these in any situation, you recognize that they are photojournalists or press photographers.

And last but not least, they can also be hidden. A jacket over a photo vest allows you to keep your gear away from prying eyes.

Conclusion: The Best Photographer Vest

There’s no doubt that a photographer vest can be a game-changer in a number of situations. It’s often not practical to carry a bag around with you. And many vests allow you instant access to your gear. They also keep your hands free.

We think that the Spanye Vest hits just the right balance between style, versatility, and practicality.

Popular Content

Best photo vests: waistcoats and jackets with big pockets for photographers

Need a jacket or waistcoat to help carry your camera gear? Check out our guide to the best photo vests available...

The best photo vests might not be the cutting edge of fashion, but they will save your bacon when you've got a lot of kit to carry. We've rounded up the best photo vests available to help you choose the best vest for you.

While the best waterproof jackets for photographers and the best rain covers for cameras might be better equipped to handle sudden downpours of rain, the best photo vests are designed for pure practicality and ease when you're on a kit-heavy photoshoot. With pockets aplenty to choose from, photographers can easily store away their memory cards, spare batteries, lenses and more – the hardest part will be remembering where you've put everything! 

Being able to keep all of your photo gear on your person can be crucially important, especially if you're in a situation where you don't want to carry around a camera bag . Plus, a photo vest or photo jacket that's designed with wildlife photography in mind is usually constructed from quiet fabrics that won't rustle. Plus, it'll also feature slits and openable flaps that should help make crouching down easier. Some photo vests or photo jackets will even come with a hood with a wired peak, which is designed to keep the rain off your face as you watch for your subject.

Deciding on whether you want a traditional photo vest sans sleeves or a photo jacket is the biggest decision you'll have to make. However, if you already have a trusty waterproof rain jacket, then we'd recommend going for a photo vest.

1. Domke PhoTOGS Vest

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Domke is the photo vest that has been worn by professional photographers for decades. The PhotoTogs disappeared for a number of years, but is back on sale again - providing the traditional desing that many of us have loved. This is the vest that accredited pros were given at the London Olympics. A big attraction of this vest is the two huge back pockets, in which you can stow away lenses until you need them. There are 12 pockets in all, and a detachable vinyl-windowed holder into which you can put your ID or press pass.

2. CampCo Humvee Safari Photography Vest

A traditional-style vest that is made from 100% cotton, which will appeal to those working in warm conditions, or who want something that is washable. This budget option boasts that it has 21 different pockets - ensuring that every accessory you can think of can be stored away its place

3. CampCo Humvee Combat Photo Vest

As the name suggests, this Humvee vest has a more military appearance, compared to the Safari option in the company's range. This is made of nylon and breathable mesh panels, for use in all conditions. There are 14 pockets available for storing your gear.

4. PortaBrace VV-M Videographer Vest

This vest is designed for use by professional videographers in mind. It has 23 pockets to cater for the needs of those involved in electronic news gathering - for brick batteries, walkie-talkies, tools, and much more. This has a robust feel, and made with cordura to ensure it is waterproof - but comes with a pro-level price to match its credentials.

5. Lowepro S+F Technical Vest

This is a modular system that needs to be used with one of Lowepro ’s S+F belts – so the vest itself is just one element of the purchase. You can fit any of Lowepro’s utility bags, pouches, filter holders and so on to the vest. It works well, but can prove pricey.

Choosing a photo vest

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

1. Find the right size: Most of the sizes available will be as expected, but if you're in doubt then you might want to size up – many of the vests will have drawstring waists and adjustable cuffs.

2. Pockets galore: The most useful thing about the best photo vests is how much they can carry. Some even have pockets that are big enough to hold a lens or two!

3. The sound of silence: If you're a wildlife photographer, you'll know how important it is to invest in wildlife-friendly clothing. Look for a neutral color that won't attract attention and a rustle-free fabric without any noisy hook-and-loop (also known as Velcro) fastenings to be as stealthy as possible.

Best rain covers for your camera gear Best waterproof jackets for photographers Best camera bags and cases for photographers   Best messenger bags for photographers Best camera sling bags  

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Ben is the Imaging Labs manager, responsible for all the testing on Digital Camera World and across the entire photography portfolio at Future. Whether he's in the lab testing the sharpness of new lenses, the resolution of the latest image sensors, the zoom range of monster bridge cameras or even the latest camera phones, Ben is our go-to guy for technical insight. He's also the team's man-at-arms when it comes to camera bags, filters, memory cards, and all manner of camera accessories – his lab is a bit like the Batcave of photography! With years of experience trialling and testing kit, he's a human encyclopedia of benchmarks when it comes to recommending the best buys. 

Related articles

Top 10 Best Photography Vests in 2024

By Ann Young 6 days ago Bags Reviews

Choose the best photography vest to carry all your gear on you without a bag.

10 Best Photography Vests & Jackets in 2024

Looking for a reliable method of carrying your gear? The exact vest you need will depend upon the amount of equipment you own and your photo genre.

Some people need a couple of pockets and others need 20 pockets of different sizes. Besides, a wildlife photographer would probably need a khaki color vest to camouflage themselves, while a wedding photographer would need something more lowkey, like black or beige.

There are a lot of different vests in a huge range of colors, shapes, and sizes that will help you cut down on space while having access to everything you need, wherever you are.

1. Humvee by CampCo Safari Photo Vest

Best photography vest – FixThePhoto’s choice

Material: Cotton| Number of pockets: 21

⊕ Large sizes available and ample pocket capacity ⊕ Pockets with nylon-lining ⊕ Breathable mesh back ⊖ Not found

I would definitely call this model the best photography vest. The design is impressively durable but lightweight, made of pure cotton, available in two colors and able to withstand active wear.

It counts a total of 21 pockets to fit every necessary detail. The nylon lining will protect the items in the pockets. Much thought was obviously put in the pockets because they come in a variety of shapes and places to conveniently hold items like a wallet, a lens, a passport, and a number of other things.

This vest for photographers has other convenient small touches like the front snap enclosure, side tabs to be loosened or tightened, rings for clasps. The mesh back allows you to be cool in a hot environment.

I want to single this model out as the most durable and convenient way of carrying around gear and accessories.

2. Gihuo Photo Vest

Best value vest

Material: 20% Cotton, 80% Polyester | Number of pockets: 16

⊕ 14 colors and 3 styles ⊕ Lightweight fabric ⊕ Strong stitching ⊖ Zipper on the wrong side ⊖ Poor quality velcro

The garment counts 16 pockets: 5 zip pockets in different shapes, 5 Velcro pockets, 2 concealed outer slant hand pockets, a pair of zipping deep inside pockets on the top and another pair on the bottom.

The vest is made of lightweight no-crease material with strong stitches. It can also resist humidity from morning dew to a slight drizzle. The pockets can fit everything you need.

This is the best photography vest in terms of color and style. It can become a great present for your photographer friend or even yourself.

3. Beat The World Men's 9 Photo Vest

Best budget vest for photographers

Material: 90% Polyester, 10% Cotton | Number of pockets: 9

⊕ 11 color variations ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Durable ⊖ Flimsy zippers

If you find most photographer vests too bulky and lacking elegance, this model, which comes in 11 colors, could be the right match.

The design is distinctive because of the concealed zippers and the absence of pocket flaps. It is lightweight and has a smooth design. The seams are reinforced where stress may be an issue.

The developer could use better zippers or a few snaps instead. The ones used here are too flimsy and tend to get stuck or separate, plus they are pretty hard to substitute.

This is the best photographers vest for people with distaste for bulging pockets. Big lenses or similar items might not fit but the vest can still hold many objects and hide that fact from the view while letting you access everything easily.

4. Billingham Photo Vest

Best vest for professional photographers

Material: Cordura | Number of pockets: 18

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⊕ Impressively breathable ⊕ Machine washable ⊕ Soft and noiseless material ⊕ Lightweight ⊖ Expensive ⊖ Few color options

Made of soft and finely-fibred Cordura 500 material, Billingham Photo Vest is perfect for the cases, when minimum noise has crucial importance. It is indispensable for wildlife photographers and even comes in a discreet khaki color, although this restricts you when the surroundings differ drastically.

It has 18 conveniently placed pockets, 12 of them on the outside, distributing the weight of your belongings in a clever way. This allows you to take a reasonable amount of gear with you and not feel encumbered.

The flap design at the back allows the air to reach your back and take away some of the heat.

To sum up, this is a comfortable and lightweight photographer vest which preserves the freedom of movement and does not show signs of wearing for a long time.

5. Ziker Photo Vest

Best for women

Material: Polyester, Nylon | Number of pockets: 15

⊕ Breathable mesh back ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Quick dry ⊖ Few color options

Women photographers struggle to find the best photography vest because most of them are too big. Luckily, this brand thought of designing a model specifically for women.

The vest is robust and practically weightless, plus it takes little time to dry.

There are only two color options, khaki for blending in and red for standing out. The vest has many pockets of various shapes that can fit and secure many items. The mesh on the back makes sure you don’t overheat.

• Check out about recommended bags for women photographers .

6. AyeGear V26

Water and windproof photography vest

Material: Diamond Membrane | Number of pockets: 26

⊕ Discreet pockets ⊕ Waterproof and windproof ⊕ Breathable ⊖ Upper compartment is bulky

You will probably find this model in every photographer vest review because of it’s versatile, well-balanced, durable, and crease-free design.

It counts as many as 26 pockets, most of them being distributed on the inside and only 7 hidden on the outer front and back part. Incredible features are the two touch-sensitive pockets that allow you to use gadgets with sensor screens without taking them out of the vest.

The camera vest was designed for use in a hot climate so it keeps you cool at high temperatures. Apart from that, it doesn’t let the air through and keeps your belongings safe from water. You can work in showers and snow without fearing anything.

On the outside, it looks pretty minimalistic, but considering the amount of gear it can store, hardly any vest can do better.

• Read more about best photography gloves .

7. Domke Photo Vest

Best for hot weather

Material: Cotton | Number of pockets: 18

⊕ Mesh panels for keeping you cool ⊕ Padded and quilted shoulders ⊕ Heavy-duty reversible zipper ⊖ Too long

Considering that this company makes the best camera bags it’s easy to imagine that the Domke photo vest will be of equally good quality.

The vest is made of pure cotton, even the mesh parts at the back and front, and is machine washable. You have 18 pockets to hold small and large items and since some are concealed the vest doesn’t look too bulky.

There are a few cargo pockets, sealed zipper pockets, large capacity back pouch, separate holders for pens and bottles, plus two hand warmers.

Unlike the common bomber-style design of camera vests, this one is longer, reaching way below the belt. On the one hand, it allows you to fit more stuff or larger items, on the other hand, it might feel cumbersome and prevent you from easily moving around.

8. FlyGo Photo Vest

Comes in 16 colors

Material: 35% cotton, 65% polyester | Number of pockets: 16

⊕ 3 designs and 16 color variations ⊕ Breathable & durable ⊕ Resistant to drizzle ⊕ Lightweight ⊖ Flimsy zippers

Regardless of the field of photography you work in, you will find the best photography vest to match your needs there. Just select one of the styles and 16 colors that work the best.

Whether you need to fit extra lenses, or tiny memory cards, or different equipment pieces, you are likely to find at least one of the 16 pockets to fit them comfortably.

All filled up, it might look a bit bulky. The vest is reliable, breathable, and dries very quickly. If you often find yourself working in a hot environment, then the mesh on the back will help you stay cool. It’s a great photographer waistcoat for summer.

9. Bassdash Photo Vest

One size fits all

Material: Polyester | Number of pockets: 18

⊕ Adaptive suspension ⊕ Padded shoulder straps ⊕ Ventilated mesh back ⊖ May be too big for some

This is the best photography vest among the adjustable ones. The straps on the shoulders and waist are very sturdy and can be adapted to your size, which makes it an ideal match for the majority of photographers.

If you wear smaller sizes, it might feel too big on you, though.

The fabric dries fast, lets air through, and weighs next to nothing. The vest can be worn in a variety of environments including the hot summer days and the wet fall ones.

With padding and the mesh insert, you will feel comfortable moving in this loaded vest for photographers.

There are 18 pockets scattered around, 14 of which have concealed zippers of high quality. This allows you to stay organized and efficient.

10. Rothco Uncle Milty Travel Vest

Most stylish vest

Material: 55% Cotton / 45% Polyester | Number of pockets: 17

⊕ 3 D-rings ⊕ Back pocket for an iPad or small laptop ⊕ 3 colors ⊖ Inaccurate sizing

This photo vest has numerous pockets inside and at the back to fit all your gear. The latter is even big enough for a tablet or even a laptop. The stitching is reliable and overall the vest is convenient to wear and move around in.

The mix of polyester and cotton ensures that the waistcoat is breathable, durable, and crease-free. On both sides, you have convenient D-rings that can be used to clip things on them and free your hands.

This vest comes in the three most convenient colors: khaki, olive, or black.

Many people claim that these camera vests come one size bigger and you should keep that in mind when placing an order. In all the rest, this model is great and one negligible manufacturing flaw shouldn’t prevent you from considering it.

List of 5 Best Photographer Vests

How to choose a photography vest.

These are several things you need to pay attention to in order to find the best photography waistcoat:

SIZE: Probably the biggest marker of comfort is the fit of your new vest. If it doesn’t fit you right, you will be distracted from work with constant adjusting. Make sure it isn’t too loose or too tight when you try it on in a shop. If you’re buying online, seek for the manufacturer’s sizing guidelines and also comments of other people.

• View more about the best camera holster .

NUMBER OF POCKETS: The second most important thing is that there are enough pockets on the waistcoat to fit all the important items. Consider the amount and size of gear you need and see if the pockets can comfortably distribute that. Also, mind the method of fastening, because a press photographer vest shouldn’t have Velcro unless you want to make loud noises every time you need something in the pocket.

• Read more about high quality rolling camera bags .

FABRIC: A lightweight blend of materials with ventilation mesh will help you avoid overheating in hot environments. Even though a lighter vest is generally more comfortable to use and care for, get a thicker one if you’re going to work outdoors in winter.

EXTERIOR PROTECTION: The walls of the pockets should be thickened and padded. This way you will make sure that if you carry a fragile object, you won’t damage it by pushing against a hard surface.

WEATHER RESISTANCE: If you happen to work outdoors sometimes, select a vest made of a material that offers some protection and with a number of sealed pockets. You need to feel secure that dust, mud, rain, or snow won’t damage your equipment while you’re doing your job.

Hi there, I'm Ann Young - a professional blogger, read more

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February 26, 2022

ACT NOW! SAVE UKRAINE. DEFEND DEMOCRACY.

Team Skylum

Photography

At 5 am on February 24, Russia began the full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. They are violently trying to steal our country.

Russian forces have invaded Ukraine, confirming our worst fears. At this very hour they are attacking us on the streets of many Ukrainian cities.  We are at war.

Skylum was proudly founded in Ukraine, and our core development center is based in Kyiv. At this harrowing time, unfortunately we cannot guarantee the on-time delivery of updates to Luminar Neo. We strive for excellence in everything we do, and we will make sure to further develop and improve Neo and to keep you updated on any news. 

However, today we ask our community for help and support. Here are some details on what has happened and how you can support Ukraine in this difficult time.

!   At 5 am on February 24, Russia began the full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. They are violently trying to steal our country.

! Right now, there are missile strikes and bombardment of peaceful Ukrainian cities.   We must hide our families in bomb shelters and protect our land with weapons in our hands as part of the territorial defense forces.

! This disastrous and entirely unprovoked Russian war has already taken the lives of 198 civilians. 33 children have been injured, and 3 have been killed.

! The Armed Forces of Ukraine, young and brave heroes, are fighting all over the country not only for Ukraine but for Peace and Clear Skies in Europe. 

As we write to you from a city under attack, we want to be very clear: This war is not just something you see on TV. It is not happening in some distant lands. It is happening right now here in Ukraine, and the Russian forces who are invading our lands and threatening our families may come to your doorstep one day too if we do not stop them.

Sanctions that world governments are currently imposing are not enough. Russia must be completely isolated from all spheres of the civilized world: the financial system, technologies, sports, culture.  

Here is a list of simple actions you can take to help Ukraine. We MUST unite to quite literally save the world before it’s too late:

- Contact your local representatives and pressure them to provide more support for Ukraine and stricter sanctions on Russia. We need military and humanitarian aid and Russia must be cut off from SWIFT.

- Donate money to humanitarian aid organizations. Find a full list over here:  https://how-you-can-support-ukraine.super.site/  

- Follow the news from official channels. Avoid fake news and disinformation!

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa  

https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba  

https://twitter.com/Hromadske  

https://twitter.com/DefenceU  

https://twitter.com/backandalive  

Telegram:  https://t.me/Forbes_Ukraine_official  

- Support the Ukrainian Army —  Official Account of the National Bank of Ukraine

We stand together

Please share this information with your community.

#Ukrainians #NATO #Ukraine #StandWithUkraine

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• All Men's Vests Jackets Hoodies
• Button Downs T-Shirts, Polos & Pullovers Pants & Shorts PJs & Underwear Accessories
• All Women's Vests Jackets Hoodies
• Shirts, Cardigans & Pullovers Dresses, Skirts & Skorts Pants Accessories

How To Find the Perfect Photography Vest

When you encounter that rare deer in the forest or a bald eagle swooping down to snatch a fish from an osprey, the last thing you want to do is spend time searching for the right lens or detangling camera straps.

To capture the right photo, you have to keep your gear ready at all times. For photographers, this presents a considerable challenge. Taking out a camera from a backpack now and then is a constant nuisance, while a camera bag or a neck strap becomes cumbersome.

A photographer vest (or jacket) serves as an ideal alternative for keeping your gear safe, secure, and ready to capture whatever scene unfolds in front of you.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

Why You Should Invest in a Photography Vest

Choosing a photographer vest, scottevest photographer apparel, check out these vestimonials from actual photographers, women’s photography apparel, men’s photography apparel, final thoughts: how to find the best photographer vest | buyer’s guide.

Camera bags are great for photography if you’re a professional photographer staying in one place or shooting pictures in a studio. However, a photojournalist or travel photographer needs to carry all the equipment without affecting their speed.

A camera vest lets you keep all your equipment on-hand, safe, and ready to go when the need arises. Available in both sleeveless and sleeved variations, they keep your core comfortable whether you are hiking the amazon or trekking the Alps.

Even a wedding photographer can use a photo vest to avoid fumbling with camera bags and missing key candid moments.

So why not pick up any old vest with a few pockets for your gear? Fishing vests may have a number of pockets, but they’re rarely big enough to accommodate all your lenses, filters, batteries, or even a gimbal or tripod.

Photography equipment is typically heavy, too. That means that even weight distribution is key so you can focus on your subject without being burdened by lugging your gear around. Unlike the pocketed vests you might find at Patagonia or Columbia, SCOTTeVEST carefully considered how each pocket will spread weight, so you hardly feel like you’re carrying anything at all.

Plus, SCOTTeVEST’s photographer vests offer streamlined profiles and subtle, classic designs. That means you can blend in when traveling and look still refined at formal occasions. You don’t always want to announce to the world you’re carrying thousands of dollars’ worth of gear on your person — and SCOTTeVEST keeps your valuable equipment nearby and protected.

The nondescript styling and pockets large enough to accommodate even long zoom lenses beat out comparable vests like the Domke, which offer only noticeable vest pouches that aren’t designed to blend in.

When choosing your photographer vest, look for vest pockets that can handle all your camera gear — from your memory cards to your lenses. Depending on the climate, get high-quality breathable materials (for summer) or sleeved variations (for fall and winter).

Additionally, you want to ensure that your vest pockets:

• Prevent equipment from falling out
• Keep everything organized and accessible
• Distribute the weight throughout the vest to avoid extra burden on your body

Scott Jordan founded SCOTTeVEST when he realized that existing vests couldn’t handle the increasing number of gadgets people carry.

For photographers, this dilemma isn’t new. Items like a safari vest or fishing vest might keep you warm, but their cargo pockets weren’t designed to carry technology and camera equipment.

Scott embarked on a journey to figure out what makes the best pockets for technology. Here’s how decades of research — pocket science — have made SCOTTeVEST apparel some of the best photographer’s vests around.

DeepPockets TM Keep Equipment Secure

The trademark DeepPocketTM design protects your equipment from falling out whether you bent over to reach something or climbed a tree to snap a shot. Vest and jacket pockets use various closures, including velcro, zipper, and magnet, to ensure that you don’t lose any gear.

Pockets Designed for Camera Gear

SCOTTeVEST apparel includes pockets specifically designed to hold cameras and tiny equipment like SD cards and USB drives. You can also benefit from the Personal Area Network (PAN) to charge your camera on the go by connecting your camera to a power bank located in a separate pocket.

Maximum Versatility and Comfort

Most SCOTTeVEST jackets come with removable sleeves and hoods. You are equally prepared for both hot and cold climates.

Also, Scott worked with chiropractors to ensure that his products protect you from pain in your neck , back, and shoulders.

Attractive Design With Minimal Bulk

SCOTTeVEST’s vests feature well-designed pockets that balance weight throughout the vest without layering on top of one another. It means that you can carry all your gear without adding bulk or restricting your movement.

With all these features, it’s easy to see how DigitalTrends named his vests one of the best pieces of gear for photographers, and the entire line consistently receives praise in publications like Business Insider , Forbes , The New York Times , and many more .

“I have two versions of this terrific vest, for slightly different purposes. On short trips, I prefer not to check luggage. A carry-on and an e-vest is all I need. On one recent trip, I stowed a 30” photo reflector in the rear pocket of my vest and a standard iPad in an inside pocket. I’m a professional photographer and, personally, I very much dislike the fishing vest look. Besides, those fishing pockets weren’t designed to carry what I want.” — Bruce P.

“My complete vlogging equipment, point and shoot camera, mini tripod and snacks fits in my RFID travel jacket. If minimal traveling is possible I think I can accomplish it easily.” — Ramon B.

“Love my Scott’s Vest! I use it for traveling & for my camera lenses when I am taking pictures for the day... no need to carry a camera bag...which is huge!!!” —Micki T.

Well-known photographer Thomas Hawk is another fan of SCOTTeVEST . Here’s a photo he took of SCOTTeVEST’s founder Scott Jordan using his vest to store photography gear.

While you can wear any SCOTTeVEST apparel and get well-made, real pockets to secure your camera gear, here are the best photographer’s vests and jackets for women to take it to the next level.

Q.U.E.S.T Vest for Women

The Q.U.E.S.T Vest for Women is the ultimate travel vest for adventurous photographers that need all their camera gear with them. Whether you want to shoot pictures or edit them, you can carry anything you need with the Q.U.E.S.T. With 42 pockets and spaces specially designed for SD cards, USB drives, managing your gear, large and small, will be a breeze.

Best photographer vest for : Long treks

Essential Jacket 2.0

The Women’s Essential 2.0 Jacket is one of our best sellers. It’s perfect for photographers who are always on the go. Removable sleeves let you convert this photographer jacket into a photographer’s vest with ease, making it a decent all-around choice. The extra-deep chest pocket is ideal for long lenses, and water-resistant material means you’ll be prepared for anything in the field.

Best photographer vest for : Hiking and general traveling

All SCOTTeVEST products are designed to protect your gear. Nevertheless, here is the men’s best camera gear apparel that stands out due to its better fit for the photography lifestyle.

Q.U.E.S.T Vest for Men

The Q.U.E.S.T Vest for Men is the ideal vest choice for professional photographers who need all their photography gear with them. Whether you want to capture wildlife up close or edit your raw photos, the Q.U.E.S.T will empower you in every step. The 42 pockets, including a space for your laptop and tablet, means not only can you take photos on the go, but you can also upload and make edits too. 

Best photographer vest for : Remote hiking and wildlife photography

Revolution 2.0 Jacket

With its detachable hood and sleeves, the Men’s Revolution 2.0 Jacket is a photographers’ favorite due to the comfort and practicality it presents for a modern photographer. The well-rounded 25 pockets offer spaces for your camera, memory cards, tablet, and water bottle. No matter what your day of shooting holds, the Revolution 2.0 Jacket can help you meet it. 

Best photographer vest for : All-around use — hiking, traveling, and event photography

As a professional photographer or travel photography enthusiast, you should live your life without regret, without missing the opportunity for the perfect shot. Invest in a photographer vest that protects your camera equipment and prepares you to capture any moment, anywhere.

To discover more travel and tech-friendly apparel, explore all SCOTTeVEST products .

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Photography Vests

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Mirrorless Camera Vest

The Alaskan Photo Vest

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Urban 5 Photo Vest

Metro Fire Photographer Vest Reflective

M&M Treker Photo Vest

Fire Photographer Vest Reflective 2 pocket

Wedding Photographer Vest

M&M Travel Photo Vest

Scott Bourne Photo Vest

Black Mesh CSI Vest

Slimline Ultra Photo Vest

ANSI II Fire Photography Vest

Press Photo Vest

Safari Photo Vest

Safari Lite Photo Vest

Zipper Silencers

Alaskan Deluxe Detachable Pouch

Alaskan Detachable Pouch

Safari, Photographers Vest pockets like TONS . Now in Forrest Green, Khaki & Stone

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• Domke Photogs Jacket/Vest

Domke Photogs Jacket/Vest - £154/$150

This is the lightest of the full jackets we had on test, plus the sleeves can be unzipped to convert it into a vest, making it particularly versatile too. The Domke Photogs Jacket/Vest – thanks to its lightweight nature – packs down relatively small when not in use and, with 16 pockets in total, offers plenty of storage capacity whether you're using it as a full jacket or a vest.

Both the jacket and lining are made from machine-washable, 100% cotton fabric, keeping it light, soft and breathable, while – with its pre-washed, weathered-looking khaki finish – it looks unobtrusive.

The material also means it's rustle-free when you're moving about, making it less likely that you'll spook any wildlife, although some of the Velcro-fastened pockets will need to be avoided in situations where stealth is required.

The generous front pockets feature a bellows-style design to accommodate larger pieces of kit such as camera bodies and/or lenses, plus there's a good range of additional pockets with varying dimensions liberally spread across the front of the jacket, as well as inside and on the sleeves.

The clear plastic press pass holder that attaches to the right-hand top chest pocket (which can be detached when you're not using it) along with the pen-holder slots and convenient business-card sized pocket on the arm hints at this jacket's suitability for photojournalists and travel photographers in particula. However, this relatively keenly-priced jacket will serve enthusiasts and professionals of just about any persuasion.

Longer-style tailoring and drawstring adjustment around the waist are further noteworthy features, and the jacket also incorporates a lightweight water-resistant nylon hood that rolls away into a zipped collar compartment when it's no longer required.

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These 12 Wrinkle-free Travel Clothes Will Be the M.V.P.s of Your Suitcase — and They’re Starting at $23

They pack like a dream.

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Travel + Leisure

I’m one of those people who can’t leave the house in good conscience with wrinkles all over my outfit. But it’s hard to avoid when you travel. I’ve tried every method — rolling things up Marie Kondo-style, laying each item flat and piling it, using packing cubes — but wrinkles are just a reality of the jet-set lifestyle. Sure, I could bring a travel steamer or mini iron, but there's not always room for one in my carry-on. Or, I could curate a wardrobe packed with wrinkle-resistant tops, bottoms, and one-pieces . That way I can skip the part where I have the ironing board set up and my travel companions are impatiently scrolling through their phones because they’re inevitably ready before me.

Some clothes are specially constructed to be wrinkle-resistant, and you’ll find that in the product messaging. But other times, you just have to look at the materials on the label. Some fabrics, like linen and cotton, though great for the warmer weather, are notorious for wrinkling at the drop of a hat. Others have the natural ability to resist and repel wrinkles. These fabrics include (but are not limited to) Supima cotton, lyocell (brand-name Tencel), an eco-friendly acetate called triacetate, charmeuse, and certain types of polyester. Luckily, a lot of your favorite brands are already on board with the convenience of wrinkle-free clothes. Among them are Athleta, Everlane, Madewell and Summersault. And of course, you can dig around Amazon and find your fair share of wrinkle-resistant clothes that travel well, too. 

Below, I've rounded up 12 of my favorites, from tanks and polos to rompers and cover-ups. Bonus points for the pieces that include other travel-friendly features, like UPF protection and moisture-wicking fabrics. Bottom line: packing these pieces will make your trip go a lot smoother. Your travel buddies can thank me later.

Timeson Three-quarter-sleeve Blouse

A crisp white blouse is a travel M.V.P., but it’s usually made of quick-to-wrinkle cotton. Not this sheer Timeson blouse from Amazon, though. It’s got wrinkle-resistant polyester (with a touch of stretchy spandex) and has a more relaxed silhouette than a traditional Oxford shirt with its tunic-style design. My white blouses are in constant rotation when I travel because they’re so versatile, and this one is unique in that its precise length allows it to look great tucked in or left loose. Plus, it pairs nicely even with yoga pants. Take it from this shopper : “I packed this blouse in a suitcase for a trip and it didn't wrinkle." 

PrettyGarden Midi Summer Dress

Twirl your way through the vineyards in this pretty poplin PrettyGarden dress made with wrinkle-resistant polyester. Its pleated skirt, ruffled hem, and keyhole front make it fun and flirty for any warm-weather destination. And, you can dress it up or down depending on your accessories, so wear it straight out of your suitcase for whatever's next on your itinerary. According to one Amazon customer , it “washes well, never wrinkles" and is "very classy and feminine." 

Babaton New Power Blazer

This long, versatile blazer by Aritzia-favorite brand Babaton is my go-to for travel and the perfect layer to help any outfit transition from day to night. I’ve worn it to elevate a white-tee-and-jeans look and over a bodycon dress for a bit more modesty. Its open front, collarless design and ruched, three-quarter sleeves keep it looking chic instead of stuffy, and the fabric is made of eco-friendly triacetate with a touch of polyester — which is the reason why I can literally ball it up in my suitcase and it will never wrinkle. 

Summersalt The Silky Luxe Beach to Brunch Wrap Skirt

With Summersalt's Beach to Brunch Wrap Skirt, You can pack up your beach bag with all of the essentials and not have to worry about your swimsuit cover-up getting smushed by your towel, books, snacks, and sunscreen. It's made with silky charmeuse fabric and is specifically designed to resist wrinkles. As the name implies, this skirt can be worn as part of your post-beach outfit thanks to its stunning print, stylish details, and maxi skirt length that provides the right amount of coverage for a restaurant or walk around the city. 

Amazon Essentials Lightweight Open-front Cardigan

I’m so glad cardigans are on-trend again because they truly come in handy when I visit places that are hot during the day and chilly at night (Mexico City and Lisbon, I’m talking to you). Roll up this lightweight, best-selling Amazon Essentials cardigan and pop it in your tote without worry because it’s got modal and polyester mixed in, so it won’t look crumpled when you pull it out at night. A reviewer confirmed that it's “wrinkle-resistant and packs well,” and you have your choice of 20 colors and prints to help it maximize your travel wardrobe. 

REI Co-op Sahara Bermuda Shorts 

Outdoor activities in warmer temps call for shorts that are comfy and rugged, and this pair by REI Co-op is the brand’s answer for Bermuda shorts fans. Not only are these water-repellent, stretchy, and outfitted with UPF sun protection, but they’re also wrinkle-resistant thanks to their resilient nylon construction. I’m not even a regular hiker, but there seems to be a spontaneous hike on almost every extended trip that I take, so this pair is going in my cart for summer. 

Madewell Pull-on Wide-leg Pants in Softdrape

Another great fabric option for the wrinkle-free travel life is lyocell — also known by its brand-name Tencel — a sustainable type of rayon that’s known for being super soft, durable, and breathable. That’s what Madewell’s Softdrape fabric is made up of, making its elastic-waist Wide-leg Pants the perfect pair for all-day wear. They can be dressed up or down and paired with anything from a T-shirt or tank to a button-down blouse or bodysuit. According to one reviewer, "They're so comfortable, flattering and stylish. The material is super lightweight and flowy. They'd be flattering on any body type." 

Lands’ End Moisture-wicking UPF Sun Curved Hem Tunic Tank Top

Land's End 

A soft polyester blend fabric is responsible for making sure that this performance tank top won’t wrinkle, and its UPF 50 sun protection helps shield you from UV rays on long walks and hikes. The ribbed top also wicks away sweat and resists odors, comes in eight cute colors, and pairs perfectly with leggings and shorts. I wore a top just like this to go off-roading in a military tank in the Czech Republic, and wish that I had it for my jeep tour of Sintra, Portugal. It also would have come in handy during my Kenyan safari. Moral of the story? Your travels will often present you with hot-weather, open-sun activities, so you’ll never regret packing a top that does as much as this one does. Use the code " FAVORITES " to get select colors on sale for as little as $23. 

Athleta Essential Tee Dress

You’ll always find an occasion to wear this T-shirt dress from Athleta, a brand that masters the intersection between stylish and high-performing activewear and travel clothes. The dress has a playful, flowy shape constructed of breathable, wrinkle-resistant Supima cotton and comes in four colors, including classic gray and black (plus bold hues like orchid pink and rosewood red). The dress makes getting ready a breeze, too — just put it on and pair it with sandals or sneakers, and you’re good to go. One customer wrote, ”I took to Hawaii for spring break… [it was a] comfortable, cute, easy-to-pack, pretty dress." 

Basudam Golf Polo Shirt

If a round of tennis, pickleball, or golf is on the agenda, this wrinkle-free polyester polo shirt should be in your suitcase. Its modified V-neck collar gives it a visual twist to make it more fashionable than your average polo. It’s also moisture-wicking and stretchy enough to handle a day filled with sports, but polished enough to keep you looking put together for post-game drinks or grub. “Female golfer here," an Amazon shopper began their review. "This shirt will be my go-to and I plan on buying every color. It's lightweight, super cute, and comfortable."

Everlane The Supima High-neck Riviera Dress

The importance of a comfy midi or maxi dress that doesn’t cling can’t be overstated. I’ve had at least one in my luggage since I became a travel writer, and this High-neck Riviera Dress from Everlane that's made with wrinkle-resistant Supima cotton fits the bill beautifully. It’s the perfect style to pair with Birkenstocks or with your favorite pair of white, all-day walking sneakers. “I am not usually a huge dress girl, but I will definitely be wearing this for spring and upcoming summer months, too," an Everlane shopper raved, adding that they "have already paired it with a jean jacket and black slides." 

Athleta Brooklyn Utility Romper

Another wardrobe essential that I’d never travel without is a romper or jumpsuit, as one-pieces just make an easy no-brainer for getting dressed and looking put together fast. They also cinch my waist and skim my figure in a way that leaves me feeling confident and securely covered to handle whatever's on my itinerary for the day. Athleta’s Brooklyn Utility Romper takes it the extra mile by being wrinkle-free, too. Plus, it has UPF-protective fabric and resists snags and rips. According to one reviewer, it's “lightweight and simple" and you can "dress it up with a jacket or just go sleeveless." 

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Tomsk Memorial to locals killed by Stalin

Tomsk Memorial to Poles killed by Stalin

Tomsk ul Tatarskaya

After several blocks we walk back up the hill to ul Lenina, pass the local Travelers Coffee and continue down to the Tom River.  It’s about 1800 now and the locals are getting off work and are strolling down the broad walkways near the River.

Around 2000, we return to the hotel where there is a small restaurant.  We  have had great meals in these small restaurants, so we decide to try once again.  This time we have a menu in both Russian and English.   Some of the entrees are Fried Salmon, Stuffed Squid, Cordon Blu, Beef a la French, and Roast Meat Russian Style with Mushrooms.   The waitress is young, shy, pretty and speaks a little English.  I have the Beef a la French and Jeff has Dumplings and we both have some Tomsk Beer.

We return to our room about 2100 and Jeff starts taking pictures from the window.  The street is filled with young people now and the most common sight is young women walking together, and young men walking down the street by themselves or with a buddy, drinking beer.

Friday night in Tomsk

Around midnight, ul Lenina is still filled with people and our room is a little noisy but we’re dead tired and sleep well.

Saturday May 7 Tomsk

The next morning I wake up a little early, around 0700 and decide to walk down to a common area, and use my computer to back up some photos.   The maid sees me and hands over our laundry.  Then she hands 200 rubles saying that she found it in my shirt.   I pay her for the laundry and give her 200 rubles($7) for a tip which return a big smile with a spaciba.  By the way, the clothes looked not only clean but almost new.

Next I boot up the computer but within 3 minutes it quits and will not boot up.   Eventually I would discover that the power cord went bad and the battery was dead. (I would later find a replacement power cord in Mongolia). Frustrating, as a computer is a necessity for me when I travel.

A little later, Jeff gets up and we walk downstairs for breakfast, which is included in the price of the room.  We have the same waitress from last night and we order scrambled eggs from the menu.    While waiting for our order, I step out into hall to use the bathroom.   It’s unisex once again with a female in the ante room, so I wait outside.  Still not sure how this works.

We’ve got about 4 hours left before we need to leave the hotel for the train station.   There are some other historical sights we would like to see in Tomsk, but there is not enough time so we go for a walk in a different part of town.    A few weeks ago, while we were planning this trip, Jeff was insistent that we see Tomsk even though it was off the main Trans-Siberian path and really kind of difficult to get to, and also awkward for us to get back to the Trans-Siberian.  I had been complaining about this because it was difficult to find a train at the times we needed one, and also I had wanted to spend more time in Beijing than  in Siberia.  But Tomsk and Siberia grow on you.   I really would have liked another day or more here.

Tomsk Supermarket,

We are walking south now on ul Sovetskaya and come upon a supermarket.  Time to stock up for the next train ride which will last 28 hours and cover nearly a thousand miles.  Didn’t find any good souvenirs this time, but we buy Ramen, fruit, nuts, Siberian chocolate cookies and some bread.

By the time we are done we have to return to the hotel and checkout and catch a cab to the train station.   Our driver charges us 130 rubles and is driving a Toyota, but the driver and steering wheel sits on the right side for some reason.   Apparently it is a Japanese Toyota made in Japan for Japan where they drive on the left side of the road.

View from Tomsk Train Station

We walk up to waiting area on the second floor and take turns walking around the station which has beautiful marble floors, arched ceilings and entrances,  and is pristinely clean.   The marquee says that train 211 for Tayga will depart at 1600.

Tomsk Train Station 2nd floor

Next:   Train Trip from Tomsk to Tayga and Irkutsk

Prior:   Bus Trip from Novosibirsk to Tomsk

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Tomsk: Cultural treasure of central Siberia

Tomsk. Church of the Resurrection on Resurrection Hill. East view. September 24, 1999

At the beginning of the 20th century the Russian chemist and photographer Sergey Prokudin-Gorsky developed a complex process for vivid color photography. His vision of photography as a form of education and enlightenment was demonstrated with special clarity through his images of architectural monuments in the historic sites throughout the Russian heartland.

In June 1912, Prokudin-Gorsky ventured into Western Siberia as part of a commission to document the Kama-Tobolsk Waterway, a link between the European and Asian sides of the Ural Mountains. The town of  Tyumen  served as his starting point for productive journeys that included Shadrinsk (current population 68,000), established in 1662 on the Iset River. By the time of Prokudin-Gorsky’s visit, the town already had several enterprises, including a ceramics factory, and a population of some 15,000. 

Prokudin-Gorsky’s photographs of Shadrinsk include the rapid construction of pine log buildings for a railroad station complex – part of a secondary rail line built in 1911-1913. The partially completed buildings show an efficient use of standardized design, with measured log stacks in the foreground. Tall, spindly pine trees complete the picture.

Shadrinsk. Construction of standardized log buildings for a railroad station complex. Summer 1912

In a broader context, these photographs reflect the expansion of Russia’s rail system from Yekaterinburg to the Far East. Although Prokudin-Gorsky did not reach Tomsk (in central Siberia), I visited there in the late Summer of 1999 and saw the extensive use of log structures in an urban environment.

Tomsk beginnings

Tomsk. Church of Kazan Icon of the Virgin at Virgin-St. Aleksy Monastery, south view. Built in 1776-89; bell tower added in 1806. September 26, 1999

Archeological evidence suggests that Tomsk Region, part of the vast Ob River basin in central Siberia, has been settled for at least four millennia.

Epiphany Cathedral, southeast view. Built in 1777-84; expanded in 19th century; severely deformed in Soviet period for use as factory. This historic photograph shows the process of restoration, completed in 2002. September 25, 1999

By the time detachments of Russian Cossacks arrived in 1598, the native inhabitants included the Khants and Siberian Tatars, who, in 1603, accepted the authority of Tsar Boris Godunov.

In 1604, a fort was founded on the banks of the River Tom (a tributary of the Ob) and, throughout the 17th century, the Tomsk settlement served as a bulwark against the Kalmyk and Kirghiz steppe tribes.  

Church of the Resurrection on Resurrection Hill, north view. Built in 1789-1807; excellent example of "Siberian Baroque" architecture. September 26, 1999

With the expansion of Russian control to the south during the 18th century, the military significance of Tomsk was replaced by trade and transportation, centered on caravans of tea from China.

Former Stock Exchange Building, begun in 1825. September 25, 1999

The expansion of the Moscow Road through Siberia in the middle of the 18th century provided further stimulus for growth that was reflected in the construction of large brick churches, such as the Epiphany Cathedral (first completed in 1784) and the Church of the Resurrection (1789), a masterpiece of Siberian baroque architecture.             

Alexander Vtorov & Sons Building, Lenin Prospect 111. Built in 1903-05 as a department store & hotel; a major example of Art Nouveau architecture in Siberia. September 24, 1999

During the 1830s, the development of gold mines in the territory greatly increased the town's significance as a center of mining operations and administration. Tomsk Region also continued to serve as a place of political exile, as it had in the 17th and 18th centuries.             

‘Diverted’ opportunities

N. S. Zaslavsky "Fashionable Store," Lenin Prospect 105. Built in 1898-99; example of "Brick Style" commercial architecture. September 24, 1999

During the construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway at the end of the 19th century, Tomsk missed a second golden opportunity when the Ministry of Transportation decided to place the railroad crossing over the Ob’ River to the south. There are conflicting explanations for this decision, which slighted Tomsk, but created the town of Novonikolaevsk, subsequently to become the major Siberian metropolis of Novosibirsk.

Former building of the Flour Exchange, Lenin Square 14. Built in 1906-08; an example of Art Nouveau architecture. September 25, 1999

Tomsk settled for a branch line constructed in 1896 through the small junction of Taiga (80 kilometers south of the city) and that spur enabled Tomsk to remain a center of trade and agricultural development in central Siberia.             

Commercial building of A. V. Shvetsov, steamboat magnate. Built in 1882 in the "Pseudo-Russian" style (based on late medieval Russian architecture). September 25, 1999

The impressive scale of its commercial and residential architecture illustrates the diversity of Siberian culture at the turn of the 20th century. The Vtorov firm built one of Siberia’s largest department stores, which still graces Tomsk’s central district. Tomsk also became one of Siberia's preeminent educational centers, the location of Siberia's first university, founded in 1878. Among Russian institutions of higher learning, Tomsk State University is distinguished not only by its academic luster but also by its attractive, spacious campus.             

Main Building of Tomsk University. Built in 1885 in a late Neoclassical style. September 27, 1999

It should be emphasized that Tomsk accepted religious faiths in addition to Russian Orthodoxy. By 1910, the city had a Catholic Church of the Holy Rosary (now restored for use), two mosques (both of which have been restored), a Lutheran church (rebuilt), an Old Believer Orthodox church and a large synagogue that is among the most beautiful in Russia. The dome over its entrance has now been reconstructed.

Catholic Church of the Rosary of the Blessed Virgin. Consecrated in 1833 for the community of Polish exiles. Bell tower added in 1856. September 26, 1999

Architectural heritage

In 1911, the city’s northern area gained the neo-Byzantine Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul, the only church to remain open for most of the Soviet era. Some of the churches were built of wood, such as the Old Believer Church of the Dormition, completed in 1913 and lovingly maintained today by the parish. I was particularly honored to be asked to photograph Metropolitan Alimpy (Gusev; 1929-2003), who was visiting Tomsk at the same time.             

Choral Synagogue, Rosa Luxemburg Street 38. Built in 1902 to replace a wooden synagogue built in 1850. View before restoration of dome above main entrance. September 25, 1999

The most distinctive part of the city’s architectural heritage is displayed in its neighborhoods of elaborately decorated wooden houses, structures of solid logs often covered with plank siding.

Cathedral of Sts. Peter & Paul, southeast view. Built in 1909-11 in Neo-Byzantine style. September 24, 1999

It is no exaggeration to say that the "lacework" of Tomsk's wooden architectural ornament – particularly the window surrounds, or nalichniki – is unrivaled in Russia for its lavish detail and the extent of its preservation. Many of these extraordinary wooden houses were built for merchants who lived in the Tatar Quarter.  

Old Believer Church of the Dormition, southwest view. Wooden structure built in 1909-13 for the Old Believer Orthodox community in Tomsk region. September 27, 1999

The Tatar Quarter also contains the renovated White Mosque and a cultural center, located in a mansion built at the beginning of the 20th century for Karym Khamitov, a Tatar financial magnate.  Other ethnic groups include Russian  Germans, composed of settlers who moved to the area beginning in the 19th century. One of them was Viktor Kress, the governor of Tomsk Region in 1991-2012. 

Old Believer Church of the Dormition. Historic photograph of Metropolitan Alimpy (Gusev), spiritual leader of Russian Orthodox Old Believer Church. Photograph taken with the blessing of the prelate, who is standing in front of icon screen. September 27, 1999

Decline & rebirth

The many positive trends in the region’s development during the early 20th century were crushed by the savage fighting of the Civil War between 1918-1921. After that conflict, Tomsk entered a decline that was reversed by the evacuation to the city of industrial and research facilities during World War II.

Wooden house, Belinsky Street 19. Excellent example of "Carpenter Gothic" style. September 24, 1999

This momentum, reinforced by strong institutions of higher education in Tomsk, continued after the war with the development of nuclear research installations for both military and energy purposes.             

Wooden house built by architect Andrey Kryachkov. Fine example of Art Nouveau architecture in wood. September 26, 1999

With over a half a million inhabitants and a regional population of almost a million, Tomsk remains a leading Siberian center for administration, education, industry and energy resources.

Wooden house & courtyard gate, Tatar Street 46. One of many distinctive wooden houses built in the district of Tatar merchants. September 26, 1999

Protecting the environment has been a major concern, particularly in an area of stunning natural beauty. 

White Mosque, built in Tatar District in 1912-16. September 26, 1999

At the same time, dedication to the city’s historical environment – including its houses of worship – has succeeded in preserving an architectural legacy that represents a Russian national treasure.

House of merchant Karym Khamitov, built in Tatar District in 1894. Under conversion into cultural center for Tatar community of Tomsk region. September 25, 1999

Indeed, a walk through the historic neighborhoods of Tomsk reminds just how much Russian culture belongs to the forest.  

Ornamental wooden gate leading to courtyard of house on Solyanoi Lane 18. September 26, 1999

In the early 20th century, Russian photographer Sergey Prokudin-Gorsky developed a complex process for color photography. Between 1903 and 1916, he traveled through the Russian Empire and took over 2,000 photographs with the process, which involved three exposures on a glass plate. In August 1918, he left Russia and ultimately resettled in France, where he was reunited with a large part of his collection of glass negatives, as well as 13 albums of contact prints. After his death in Paris in 1944, his heirs sold the collection to the Library of Congress. In the early 21st century, the Library digitized the Prokudin-Gorsky Collection and made it freely available to the global public. A few Russian websites now have versions of the collection. In 1986, architectural historian and photographer William Brumfield organized the first exhibit of Prokudin-Gorsky photographs at the Library of Congress. Over a period of work in Russia beginning in 1970, Brumfield has photographed most of the sites visited by Prokudin-Gorsky. This series of articles juxtaposes Prokudin-Gorsky’s views of architectural monuments with photographs taken by Brumfield decades later.

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