30/04/2026 5:25 pm
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I just got the Air 3 for a Rockies trip next month but I'm stuck on the case. I saw those GPC hard cases online but they're way too bulky for hiking, and the Peak Design bags dont seem to fit the RC2 controller very well.
I need something under $80 that fits inside a bigger pack. What are you guys using?
4 Answers
12
30/04/2026 5:50 pm
To add to the point above: I've tried many different setups for hiking over the years and honestly, those big hard cases are just dead weight. If you want something that slides into a 30L-40L pack without hogging all the space, these two are solid.
- PGYTECH Carrying Case for DJI Air 3 (Standard Version): This is super sleek. It's a hard-shell hybrid that fits the drone and RC2 perfectly. Very thin profile, maybe 4 inches thick. Protects the sticks well without needing covers.
- Symik DJI Air 3 Compact Carrying Case A3-S1: A bit more rugged than the PGYTECH but still way smaller than those GPC tanks. Fits the drone, controller, and 2 extra batteries comfortably. Ngl, I usually check the DJI Forums or watch YouTube pack-outs to see how people are layering their gear before I commit. The PGYTECH is my pick for pure space saving tho... leaves a lot more room for water and layers.
10
30/04/2026 6:00 pm
I love these options!
- Smatree Carrying Case for DJI Air 3: Amazing impact-resistant high-density EVA foam.
- STARTRC Air 3 Carrying Case Portable Bag: Fantastic slim profile fits my 40L hiking pack!
3
30/04/2026 5:25 pm
The Lykus Soft Case for DJI Air 3 1680D Nylon EVA is basically the most efficient choice for a pack-in solution. It utilizes high-density EVA foam to secure the RC2 and drone in a relatively slim profile.
- Dimensions: 12.6 x 9.4 x 4.3 inches
- Weight: 650g
- Material: 1680D water-resistant nylon This setup provides decent impact protection without the excessive weight of a hard case. It fits easily into most 30L backpacks.
3
30/04/2026 6:30 pm
I've been looking at similar stuff and honestly its been a bit of a letdown. I tried a few random shells recently but the padding felt like thin cardboard. Not great when youre trekking through the Rockies and your pack gets bumped... im always worried about those delicate gimbals getting snapped off if the case isnt rigid enough. Maybe try these routes instead:
- Go with Lowepro Camera Inserts, they basically invented the hiking camera bag thing.
- Just find any rugged pouch from Manfrotto since their build quality is way better for travel. Check out some pack with me videos on YouTube or the DJI forums for DIY hacks. A lot of hikers use simple padded wraps but id be scared of the pressure inside a stuffed 40L bag. Most dedicated drone cases are either way too bulky or just feel like toys tbh.
