I just got my first real camera which is a Fujifilm X-T5 and honestly I am so scared I am going to drop it or scratch it before I even get to use it properly. I am heading to Japan in about three weeks for a dream trip and I really need to figure out how to carry this thing plus the two lenses I bought which are the kit 18-55mm one and that big 70-300mm zoom lens. I have literally zero experience with camera gear so sorry if this is a super basic question but I am totally lost looking at all the options online and my head is kinda spinning.
My logic was just to put everything in my regular North Face backpack but then I started worrying about the lenses clinking together or the screen getting smashed while I am on the plane or the train. I saw these hard plastic cases like Pelican ones but they look so heavy and I dont want to carry a literal suitcase around the streets of Tokyo all day. Then I saw these soft shoulder bags but some of them are like $200 or $300 which feels insane? My budget is really tight now because the camera and lenses already broke the bank so I am trying to stay under $100 if possible.
I was thinking about maybe getting one of those padded insert things? Like a little box with dividers that goes inside a normal bag? But I dont know if they actually protect anything or if the gear just slides around inside and gets ruined. I also saw some people talking about wraps that look like thick cloth? It all seems so confusing and I dont know what is actually safe for a 12 hour flight.
I really want something that doesn't scream I have an expensive camera inside but also I dont want to be cheap and have my lens snap off if I bump into a wall. It is all very overwhelming and I keep switching between wanting a tiny leather case and a giant waterproof box and I just cant decide what makes sense for a beginner...
Ive used several setups for my Fuji gear and honestly a padded insert is perfect for your backpack. It keeps everything snug and safe.
To add to the point above: inserts are smart, but avoid generic foam. In my experience, it compresses during flights, leaving gear loose. High-density padding is vital for protecting that heavy 70-300 zoom lens.
Re: "Ive used several setups for my Fuji gear..." - agreed, inserts work. The Peak Design Camera Cube V2 Small fits that 70-300mm easily. Also, Domke Protective Wrap 15x15 is a solid, cheap alternative.