How should I carry around a nikon camera?

I recently got a nikon dslr and I was wondering how I should carry it around while traveling. I have a camera bag, but that seems a bit cumbersome to carry all day. Can I just put it into a normal day bag? Or would I damage it that way?

I put mine in a day pack, or a large but pack when walking about. I usually have a light duty sweater (jumper) formed in to a "U" shape on the bottom of the day pack. I also wrap a 12" x 12" micro fiber cloth around the back of the body to protect the LCD display. The microfiber cloth has the added advantage that it cleans nose prints off the screen while in your pack. DSLR cameras are pretty durable as long as you don't bang it in to something hard. I've traveled with my DSLR to various parts of the world with minimal protection for the camera. Haven't had any problems.

I carry mine in a backback.

You can protect the camera and lenses by placing them in a soft bag.

One of my colleagues from Michigan uses heavy wool socks from his days living in the deep snow there.

I usually carry microfiber cloths I have found at Sam's Club. They are large enough to wrap around a dSLR camera and can be used to keep things clean as well. I also carry a shaving brush and "rocket" blower to keep things clean.

Get a camera bag

It all depends on how often you intend to use it.

If I'm on a photography trip, I usually carry it "naked." Out of carrying bag or any other case.

If I'm on a regular trip, I usually carry it in a bag made for just one camera with an attached lens.

If I'm in a situation where multiple lenses are necessary, then I carry my camera on my shoulder and additional lenses in my camera bag. But this gets tiresome fast.

One thing I should advise you NOT to do, is to carry it in a way that may put stress on the lens mount. You see, your camera has a shiny metal lens mount that is attached to a plastic body with just a few screws. Lenses are typically longer than wider. So if you carry it in a way it will apply force to the lens, leverage will put great stress on the mount/body attachment. It's not that delicate but it's not that strong either. So I wouldn't suggest just placing it in a "day bag". You'd want some kind of protection.

You might want to invest in a camera bag that will carry more stuff as a day bag, rather than use a day bag to carry a camera. There are backpack type with extra space, shoulder bag with extra space, and everything else. I'm sure you can find one that will suit your needs.

On my up coming trip I plan on using a back pack.
Day to day I use the strap around my neck

You can put it in your regular bag but make sure it is not tightly packed or the dSLR or lens might break. Make sure the camera is off, the lens cap is installed and the hood if present is mounted backwards.

You bought a DSLR, and hesitating to buy a good camera bag? Such a cheap