I used to have my gear in a soft bag, until it fell out the back door of my van, and damaged my DA*16-50. So, I got a Vangard hardcase, and then another! Yes they are bulky, yes they are heavy and yes I've had to buy new foam twice as my collection ha expanded... But they are water proof, dust proof, secure, dry and tough.
I don't advocate them for a hike in the country, but for getting your camera safely from A to B and storing it securely they are unbeatable.
And if you find Vangaurd a bit cheap, Pelican does the same thing at a premium