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Best Lens for Travel Photography in 2024 (All Cameras)

Discover the ideal lenses for travel photography, balancing versatility, size, aperture, and durability to capture stunning images on your journeys this year.

Camera Gear Guides | Lens Guides | By Jeff Collier

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This guide will help you find the best lens for travel photography , depending on your camera.

The right choice of lens can elevate your travel storytelling skills, allowing you to express and encapsulate the essence of each destination.

From wide-angle primes for shooting sweeping landscapes to versatile zoom lenses for dynamic versatility, the choices can be bewildering.

So, let us take you by the hand and walk you through some of the best options.

Table of Contents

How to Choose the Best Lens for Travel Photography

When selecting the best lens for travel photography, there are several key qualities to consider:

• Versatility: A good travel lens needs to be versatile. You want a lens that can handle various situations, from rolling countryside landscapes to detailed street scenes. A zoom lens with a range like 24-70mm or 18-135mm can be ideal, offering both wide-angle and moderate telephoto perspectives.
• Size and Weight: Traveling often involves moving around a lot, sometimes in cramped conditions. So, the size and weight of the lens are crucial. A compact and lightweight lens will be less burdensome during long days of sightseeing or hiking.
• Aperture: While zoom lenses with wide apertures like f/2.8 are great for low light and creating a shallow depth of field , they’re often heavier and more expensive. An f/4 lens strikes a good balance – it’s typically lighter, more compact, and less costly, yet still performs well in various lighting conditions.
• Prime or Zoom: A prime lens is typically smaller and lighter than a zoom lens, but it doesn’t offer the same versatility with only a single focal length. If you have space in your travel bag, a combination of one small prime lens (like a nifty-fifty) and one zoom would be ideal.
• Image Stabilization: This feature is a must for travel photographers, especially when shooting in low light or when using slower shutter speeds. It helps reduce the blurriness caused by camera shake, ensuring sharper images.
• Durability: A travel lens should be durable enough to withstand different environments. Look for lenses with weather-sealing if you plan to shoot in various outdoor conditions.
• Image Quality: High image quality is, of course, a priority. Look for lenses that offer sharp, clear imaging across their aperture range and focal lengths.

Best Full Frame Lenses for Travel Photography

Canon ef 24-105mm f/4l is usm (best canon ef zoom lens for travel photography).

• Great optical quality
• Durable build
• Versatile focal length
• Image stabilization
• Relatively expensive
• Some distortion at 24mm

The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is a travel photography favourite, thanks to its blend of versatility and image quality.

As part of Canon’s esteemed L-Series, it’s well-known for superior optical performance. It delivers exceptional image quality and sharpness, ensuring your travel photos are (hopefully) visually stunning.

It has a robust build and is completely weather-sealed. It’s also surprisingly light and compact, considering its focal range and capabilities.

Its 24-105mm focal range provides a huge amount of flexibility and is ideal for capturing everything from landscapes to detail shots.

The constant f/4 aperture across the zoom range makes exposure control very simple and allows you to maintain consistent settings in varied lighting conditions.

It’s also fast enough to be good in low light conditions and lets you play with a shallow depth of field, especially when fully extended.

The camera lens also comes with built-in image stabilization, which is essential for the kind of handheld shooting that’s normal when travelling.

Those looking for a less expensive alternative could consider the Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM [ Amazon | B&H ] – although you should bear in mind that it’s not weather-sealed.

Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS (Best Canon RF Zoom Lens for Travel Photography)

• Weather sealed
• Excellent build quality
• Image stabilisation
• Excellent autofocus capabilities
• f/4 is not the fastest

The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS lens is among the mirrorless staples for Canon users.

The 24-105mm focal length is a versatile focal range, suitable for capturing wide-angle landscapes, portraits, and even some telephoto shots.

It’s an ideal range for travel photographers wanting to avoid constantly switching lenses.

As an L series camera lens, it’s very well-built, compact, and lightweight, with a robust construction and weather-sealing for added durability.

With its constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range, you get consistent exposure control, and the lens has impressive optical quality, producing sharp images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberrations.

The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS also has in-built image stabilization. That means you’ll be able to take sharper images, even shooting handheld in low-light conditions, a common scenario when travelling.

Its Dual Nano USM (Ultrasonic Motor) also ensures smooth, accurate, and quiet autofocus, giving you the ability to get all your shots in focus, regardless of how challenging your subjects or environments are.

Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G (Best Nikon FX Zoom Lens for Travel Photography)

• Excellent image quality
• Well-designed
• Versatile focal range
• Great autofocus
• Some barrel distortion

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G is a great all-round lens for the Nikon shooter.

It has a nearly identical focal range to the Canon lens above and, as such, provides users with great versatility and the ability to shoot a wide range of photographic scenarios.

You can comfortably shoot expansive landscapes to detail shots and portraits. It’s the kind of lens you could just leave on your camera and be ready for anything.

Its constant aperture throughout the zoom range ensures consistent exposure settings. That means that, whatever the lighting conditions, you’ll be ready and won’t have to make a lot of setting changes to adapt.

Like the Canon, it’s also a high-end product that delivers sharp, clear images throughout its focal range.

It has Nano Crystal Coating, too, which reduces chromatic aberration and lens flare, ensuring consistently high image quality whatever the lighting conditions.

This lens is surprisingly compact and lightweight, given its focal range, and is fully weather-sealed, so you can confidently take it on your next adventure.

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G has optical image stabilization – essential for handheld shooting – and its Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology provides lightning-fast and silent autofocus.

Having such quick and quiet autofocus is a definite bonus during travel, for street photography, and for capturing candid scenes like a ninja.

• More: Best Lenses for Landscape Photography

Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S (Best Nikon Z Zoom Lens for Travel Photography)

• Excellent optical quality
• Customizable control ring
• f/4 not the best in low light

For the travel photographer shooting Nikon mirrorless, the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S is a stellar choice.

Once again, it’s a lens with a 24-120mm focal range, which provides travel photographers with great versatility.

Whether you’re shooting landscapes or zooming in on details, you can adapt without the need for frequent lens changes.

This lens also has a constant f/4 aperture throughout its zoom range, which means consistent exposure. Plus, it’s easy to adjust your settings when moving between varied lighting conditions.

It’s compact and lightweight, given its capabilities, and has in-built image stabilization and extremely fast autofocus.

Travel photographers generally shoot most scenes handheld, so image stabilization is essential, and it’s always handy to have quiet and quick autofocus so you can react quickly and be discreet.

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S boasts exceptional optics and delivers crisp, colorful images with excellent contrast.

One nice feature is the lens’ customizable control ring, which allows travel photographers to adjust settings like aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation on the fly.

This ability to tailor-make your shooting experience adds another level of versatility to this as a travel lens.

Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 (Best Sony FE Zoom Lens for Travel Photography)

• Great image quality
• Weather-sealed
• A little heavy
• Limiting aperture

Although it lacks a few millimeters of focal length compared to the others in this section, the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 is a travel photographer favorite known for its exceptional performance and versatility.

Starting at 24mm, the lens has wide-angle capabilities to help you shoot landscapes and architecture. And 105mm is still enough for detail shots and portraits.

Like every other lens in this section, it has a constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range. That makes it easy on you when it comes to changing settings, gives you some depth of field to play with, and helps you out in low-light conditions.

Travel photography often involves shooting in dynamic environments, so having built-in image stabilization is a must, particularly when shooting handheld at longer focal lengths. This lens delivers.

It’s also weather-sealed, so you can take it anywhere.

But what about its image quality? Well, Sony is renowned for producing lenses with outstanding optical performance, and the FE 24-105mm f/4 is no exception.

This lens produces sharp images with minimal distortion, chromatic aberration, and vignetting, so you should end up with stunning travel images.

For those photographers who need more range or want to save some money, consider the Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III [ Amazon | B&H ].

• More: Best Lightweight Travel Cameras

Best APS-C Lenses for Travel Photography

APS-C cameras are more compact than their full-frame brothers and sisters, and they often have the specs to deliver great images.

So, if you’re someone who has one of these cameras, these lenses could be for you.

Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 (Best Fujifilm Zoom Lens for Travel Photography)

• Lightweight and compact
• Variable aperture
• Some image softness

The Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (full review here ) is pretty popular thanks to its wide focal range and compact design.

The best feature of this lens is clearly its impressive focal range. It’s both a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens, so provides users with exceptional versatility for capturing everything from landscapes to distant subjects.

Weighing in at a mere 490 grams, the XF 18-135mm is also remarkably lightweight. So, it’s an excellent choice for travel photographers who prioritize portability.

The lens is fully weather-sealed, providing protection against dust and moisture, and is equipped with Fujifilm’s Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) technology.

With this, photographers can shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds without sacrificing image quality.

And, as you’d expect from Fuji, the lens has exceptional optical quality. The images are sharp, with well-rendered colors, minimal distortion, and chromatic aberration – a travel lens that can be relied on.

• More: Guide to the Best Wide-Angle Lenses

Panasonic Lumix 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 II (Best MFT Zoom Lens for Travel Photography)

• Extremely versatile focal length
• In-built image stabilization
• Plastic construction

Just a note before I get into it: there are multiple versions of this lens, so it can be a bit confusing. The latest version, which is the version you want, says H-FSA14140 on the box and the barrel.

And if you get it, you’ll get a lens that is well-liked in the travel photography community for its broad focal range and compact design.

With its extensive 14-140mm range, it’s the most versatile lens in this guide. There is very little you wouldn’t be able to capture with it, thereby reducing the need to change lenses.

It’s also, especially given this focal range, exceptionally compact and lightweight and weighs in at a mere 265 grams. No need to use up much space or add unnecessary weight to your camera bag.

Panasonic’s Power O.I.S. technology is also integrated into the lens, providing effective image stabilization to ensure sharp, blur-free images, even when shooting zoomed-out.

It boasts an excellent autofocus system, fast and virtually silent. That’s particularly good for travel photography as you can shoot in quiet or intimate settings and capture moments without disturbing the atmosphere.

Thanks to both those last features, the smooth zoom and silent autofocus, the Lumix 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 II is also well-suited to videography, adding an extra dimension to your travel storytelling.

Another option is the Olympus 12-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Lens [ Amazon | B&H ], though by most accounts, the Panasonic is a better performer.

Canon EF-S 18-135mm (Best Canon APS-C Zoom for Travel Photography)

• Light and compact
• Excellent autofocus
• Made of plastic materials

Weighing in at just 480 grams, the EF-S 18-135mm is a relatively lightweight and compact lens – important for travel photographers who want to minimize weight and maximize space in their gear bag .

And, with its 18-135mm focal range, whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or distant subjects, the Canon EF-S has you covered.

The lens features Canon’s STM (Stepping Motor) autofocus technology, providing smooth and silent focusing during both still photography and video recording.

It is also equipped with Dynamic Image Stabilization (IS), which reduces the impact of camera shake.

This feature is invaluable for handheld shooting, ensuring sharp images even when using the lens at longer focal lengths or in low-light conditions – a common scenario in travel photography.

The overall image quality is excellent, too, something that Canon is well-known for. The images are sharp, well-contrasted, and with good color reproduction across its focal range.

Nikon Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR (Best Nikon Z DX Zoom for Travel Photography)

• Extremely lightweight and compact
• Good autofocus
• Good focal range
• Slightly cheap feel

The Nikon Z DX 16-50mm is exceptionally compact and lightweight, making it an ideal companion for travel photographers.

The lens’s sleek design ensures it takes up minimal space in your gear bag. It’s so sleek it almost looks like a pancake lens!

Not only that, but the lens also has an electrically retractable mechanism, allowing it to collapse into an even more compact form when not in use.

Despite its small form factor, it nevertheless covers a decent focal range, from 16mm to 50mm. This makes it well-suited for a variety of travel scenarios, from wide-angle landscapes to portraits.

Overall, the image quality is good, and sharp throughout the range. That’s aided by built-in stabilization that eliminates the effects of camera shake when shooting handheld.

Equipped with a Stepping Motor autofocus system, the Nikon Z DX 16-50mm has fast, quiet, and precise focusing. This is super useful when shooting travel photos, as you need to react quickly and often be discrete.

• More: Best Lenses for Portrait Photography

Nikon AF-S DX 16-80mm f/2.8-4E (Best Nikon DX Zoom for Travel Photography)

• Fast variable aperture

This lens gives you a bit more focal range to play with than the one above, and a faster variable aperture.

16-80mm gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of what you can shoot. It’s wide enough for architecture and landscapes, and also perfect for portraits and details shots.

It’s the kind of lens that, if you’re thinking of an all-around solution, this could be it.

Although variable aperture lenses aren’t the most convenient, f/2.8-4, gives this lens impressive low-light performance and creative depth of field control.

Its brighter aperture is especially good for dimly lit environments, so you can capture stunning images in indoor settings or even as the sun sets.

The lens also features Nikon’s Vibration Reduction technology, which ensures clear handheld images even at low shutter speeds and the end of the range.

The Nikon AF-S DX 16-80mm f/2.8-4E has fast and accurate autofocus, as well as Nikon’s high-end Nano Crystal Coating and Extra-Low Dispersion elements, which help reduce lens flare, ghosting, and chromatic aberrations.

This means that the images it produces are high quality and with accurate color reproduction, even in the kind of challenging lighting situations that commonly occur in travel photography.

• More: 77 Awesome Travel Tips for Photographers

Sony 16-55mm f/2.8 G (Best Sony E Zoom Lens for Travel Photography)

Credit: Marc Bergreen

• Great optics
• No image stabilization

This is an extremely versatile lens with a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the focal range.

That bright aperture somewhat compensates for the lens’ lack of in-built image stabilization and allows for excellent low-light performance and creative control over the depth of field.

It’s compact and fairly light, and has a robust, weather-sealed build that can comfortably withstand the rigours of travel photography.

As photographers have come to expect from Sony, you also get excellent image quality, with sharp pictures and true-to-life colors, and great autofocus capabilities, essential for capturing those sometimes fleeting travel moments.

Best Prime Lenses for Travel Photography

In terms of both optical and build quality, nothing really beats primes.

So, if you can find one that suits your shooting style, choosing just one or two to put in your bag could be a good way to go.

The links below each section are to the full-frame equivalents.

As a focal length, 35mm is justifiably popular, as it provides a natural perspective that matches the field of view of the human eye.

They are sometimes referred to as the ‘storytelling lens’ because, given this natural feel, photographers easily feel in sync with their camera, which makes it easier to compose scenes.

They are ideal for capturing a wide range of scenarios, from street photography to environmental portraits.

Many 35mm primes feature wide apertures, such as f/1.4 or f/2, so they’re good in low light and can also handle high shutter speeds. This makes them extremely versatile.

Possibly the best lens for travel photography, and any photography.

A 24mm prime provides a broader view, allowing you to include more of a scene in your frame.

This makes it perfect for capturing expansive landscapes or architecture, particularly when you want to emphasize the scale or beauty of a location.

It’s also good for photographing, for example, bustling marketplaces or cultural events, as you can get right in the centre of the action and still fit plenty into the frame.

Despite being a wider focal length, a 24mm is also good for environmental portraits, as it can capture subjects in their surroundings, providing context and storytelling elements.

The nifty fifty is renowned for its flattering portrait perspective that allows you to isolate subjects from the background.

Many 50mm primes have wide apertures (f/1.8 or f/1.4), so you can create beautiful background blur and really emphasize your subject.

Those wide apertures mean they generally have great low-light performance, too.

50mm is also a good focal length for detail shots, such as a local artisan’s hands or the textures of street food or handicrafts.

What’s Best for Travel Photography: One Lens, Two Lenses, or a Three-Lens Kit?

Choosing the right combination of lenses for your travel photography kit is an important decision that can have a significant impact on what you can capture.

Do you travel as light as possible and take only one lens? Should you take more lenses to cover more situations?

Which focal lengths should you choose?

A telephoto lens? Zoom lenses or primes?

Let’s take a look at a few of the options.

One Lens Kit

My ideal one-lens kit would be my go-to lens for every kind of photography, a 24-70mm f/2.8, or a 24-105mm f/4.

These are generally high-quality lenses, and they are extremely versatile.

With their broad focal ranges, you can take wide-angle shots and also zoom in for portraits and other detail shots.

As you can shoot so much with them, and often won’t feel limited in any way, you can focus on being in the moment and just enjoy the photography.

Having one lens also means less weight to carry and less space taken up in your bag – perfect for those who prioritize traveling light.

If you have an f/2.8 aperture, it’s also fast enough that you can shoot in even challenging light conditions. With f/4, you may struggle more, but as a trade-off, you’ll get the extra focal length.

Two Lens Kit

My ideal two-lens kit would have a 24-70mm f/2.8 or 24-105 f/4, paired with either a 50mm f/1.4 or an 85mm f/1.2.

The 24-70mm covers a wide focal range, while 50mm and 85mm primes excel at portraits, detail shots and low-light situations.

As I’ve already run through the features of the 24-70mm and 24-105mm, I won’t repeat myself, so let’s consider the primes.

Choosing either of these primes will enhance your creativity. Their wide apertures can create beautiful background blur and enhance low-light performance.

Not only this, but shooting with primes forces you to move around more and immerse yourself in a scene to try out compositions, whereas, with a zoom lens, you can stand in one place and let the lens do more of the work.

In my opinion, when you’re traveling, anything that forces you to get more involved is a good thing.

A two-lens setup is also still relatively compact compared to a three-lens kit.

Three-Lens Kit

My ideal three-lens travel photography kit would be made up of a 24-70mm f/2.8 or 24-105mm f/4, with either a 50mm f/1.8 or 85mm f/1.2, and either a wide-angle lens (such as a 10-22mm) or a longer prime, such as a 135mm or a 200mm.

I’ll just cover the third lens here, to avoid repeating myself.

My reasoning for these two choices is that, with a third lens, you are starting to get into specialist travel photography.

The first one or two lenses are all-round options that will basically help you photograph pretty much anything.

When choosing a third lens, given it’s going to add more weight and cost, and is not totally essential, you need to pick something that will help you photograph something specific that your other two lenses might struggle with.

If you particularly like to photograph architecture or panoramas, you might want to consider a 10-20mm (or something close to those focal lengths).

If you like to take pictures with a lot of lens compression, shoot wildlife, landscape details, or creative portraits, a longer prime will definitely help.

With a three-lens kit, you’ll be ready for anything.

Single Zoom vs. Multiple Primes

When choosing the best lens for travel photography, you of course have to consider the differences between zoom lenses and primes.

If you choose to take a single zoom lens, you will have the ultimate in convenience and versatility.

You’ll never need to change your lens (or feel like you want to).

But there are limitations. They’re often not as good in low light, and they give you less creative control over depth of field compared to primes.

With primes, you get enhanced low-light performance, sharper image quality, and creative control with different focal lengths and apertures.

But, on the flipside, you’ll need to make (possibly frequent) lens changes, due to potential gaps in focal length coverage, and primes tend to weigh more.

FAQs About the Best Lens for Travel Photography

Which lens is used for travel photography?

Many lenses can be used for travel photography.

You can use a telephoto lens, zoom lenses or primes, and you can choose the focal length you need.

The important thing is that, whatever camera lenses you choose, they’re versatile enough that you can shoot in a variety of environments and situations.

What focal length is best for travel?

The best lens for travel photography in terms of focal length is the most versatile one.

Generally, if you have to choose one lens, a zoom with a focal range of 24-70mm or 24mm-105mm is best.

What is the best prime lens for travel photography?

The best prime lens for travel photography would be, depending on your shooting style and preferences, one of either a 24mm, 35mm, or 50mm. Only if you shoot wildlife would you need a telephoto lens.

What two lenses should I have for travel photography?

If you just want to take two camera lenses with you, I recommend you take one zoom lens (for versatility) and one prime (for creativity).

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Jeff Collier is an experienced film photographer who enjoys experimenting with modern digital photography equipment, software and apps. He’s also an ex-world champion triathlete and avid cyclist, clocking hundreds of km each week in the beautiful Tweed Valley of northern NSW, Australia.

IMO Sony’s best travel lenses are the 20-70 G and the 16-35 G. I take an RX1 or the FE 28mm as a (creative) prime.

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The best travel camera for 2024: the finest choices for your adventures

The best travel cameras for your next big trip

• Best overall
• Best-looking
• Best action cam
• Best tough camera
• Best premium compact
• Best small full-frame
• Best hybrid vlogger

Best for moving subjects

• Best superzoom

How to choose

• How we test

1. The list in brief 2. Best for most people 3. Best value 4. Best-looking 5. Best action 6. Best tough 7. Best premium compact 8. Best small full-frame 9. Best hybrid travel vlogger 10. Best for moving subjects 11. Best superzoom bridge 12. How to choose 13. How we test

Road trip or flyaway vacation, the best travel cameras let you capture incredible images of your holiday adventures. From action cameras to compact mirrorless models, we've extensively reviewed the top travel-friendly cameras and rounded up our recommendations in the expert guide below. Whatever your itinerary, this is list is your ticket to the ideal travel camera.

Based on our tests, we think the best travel camera overall is the OM System OM-5. A portable, weatherproof Micro Four Thirds model, it shoots higher quality images than a smartphone while offering the useful flexibility of interchangeable lenses.

Whatever your expectations and budget, you'll find a travel camera to fit the bill below. Our list includes some of the best mirrorless cameras , as well as some of the top compact cameras . Our expert reviewers have spent many hours testing the best options, using them in the real world to assess how well they perform when traveling. You'll find the results distilled in the list below, together with buying advice to consider when choosing a travel camera.

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He’s also worked in video production with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi.

The quick list

If you don’t have time to read our full list of the best travel cameras, you can read the round-up below for a shortcut to the top options for your needs and budget. If you find one that takes your fancy, use the links to jump to our full write-up.

The best travel camera overall

Squeezing a host of features into a compact, weatherproof body that’s compatible with a range of lenses, the OM-5 is the ideal travel camera.

Read more below

The best value travel camera

With a large 1-inch sensor and useful 15x optical zoom, the Panasonic TZ200 puts smartphone-beating performance in your pocket.

The best-looking travel camera

Don’t be fooled by its lovely retro looks: the Nikon Z fc is every bit the modern travel camera, with a useful touchscreen and top image quality.

The best action camera for travel

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is the best all-round action camera available ideal for capturing your adrenaline-filled travels, with 8:9 sensor ideal for sharing travel videos to social.

The best tough travel camera

For rough and tumble travels you'll want a tough camera and they don't come much better than the OM System Tough TG-7.

The best premium compact

With a large sensor, fixed 23mm focal length, small form factor, retro design and film simulations, the X100VI is a powerful tool for street photography and documenting your travels.

Load the next 4 products...

The best small full-frame camera

Combining a small form factor with a high-res 61MP sensor and fantastic autofocus, the Sony A7C R is the best full-frame camera for travel photography.

The best hybrid for travel vlogging

A capable sensor and automated settings, including a Vlogging mode, make the Fujifilm X-S20 an accessible tool for stills and video on the go.

The best for moving subjects

The compact A6700 uses AI-powered autofocus to reliably snap on to animals, insects, cars and more. The Fuji X-S20 is better for video, though.

The best superzoom camera

Even with a 1-inch sensor, the Sony RX10 IV delivers sharp stills and video, with the added versatility of a generous 24-600mm zoom range.

The best travel cameras in 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best travel cameras in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

1. OM System OM-5

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a robust travel camera: Light enough to travel with but tough enough to deal with bad weather, the OM-5 is a ruggedly dependable camera. ✅ You shoot handheld a lot: The OM-5 has excellent image stabilization for stills, meaning you can cross a tripod off your packing list.

❌ You want the best image quality: Its Micro Four Thirds sensor is decent enough, but some rivals offer more pixels and better low light performance. ❌ You have large hands: Handling is surprisingly good for a small camera, but the grip is not very deep, especially for those with bigger hands.

The OM-5 is only a relatively minor update of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III , but its combination of talents make it an ideal travel camera in our book – particularly if you want the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. It shoehorns a lot of features into a compact, weatherproof body that's compatible with a wealth of equally small lenses. Most of its skills, including excellent in-body image stabilization and computational photography modes, are also designed with travelers and adventurers in mind.

Our tests found that the OM-5 delivers excellent video and stills quality for its size, helped by a stabilization system (good for 6.5-stops of compensation) that gives you a high hit-rate of keepers. We also enjoyed the high-quality feel of the camera's dials, as well as in-camera software tricks, like Live ND and in-camera focus stacking, which are ideal for macro shots or blurring skies for an ethereal effect. Less good are the fairly average EVF resolution, 4K /30p limit for video and relative limitations of its smaller sensor, but these are all acceptable trade-offs considering this camera's size and price.

Read our in-depth OM System OM-5 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best-value travel camera

2. Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200

✅ You want an all-in-one compact: You can’t beat the TZ200 for portability, but it’s also a feature-packed option with a useful zoom range and 1.0-inch sensor. ✅ You want a large zoom range: At 15x optical zoom, the TZ200 offers the versatility to shoot all sorts of subjects on your travels.

❌ You like an ergonomic grip: The Lumix TZ200 has plenty of manual controls on the metal body, but there’s not much of a grip to get your fingers around. ❌ You want a cheap camera: Its generous feature set makes the TZ200 excellent value, but its still pretty pricey for a premium compact.

With smartphones now raising the bar for point-and-shoot photography, compact cameras have to offer something special to justify their place in your travel bag. The ZS200 / TZ200 does that with its large 1-inch sensor and versatile 15x optical zoom. It might be towards the upper end of the compact camera market, but Panasonic 's travel zoom continues to offer great value.

Its large 1in sensor produces better natural image quality than most smartphones, despite the latter's advances in multi-frame processing. Our tests found colors to be nice and punchy, with the dynamic range allowing you to recover lost shadow detail with post-processing if needed. Even at 24mm, vignetting and distortion is nicely controlled. There's also a handy built-in electronic viewfinder, which makes it easier to compose images in bright light. It's still quite pricey, but this is still the best travel zoom compact camera available right now.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 review

3. Nikon Z fc

✅ You care about camera design: From the retro dials to the circular viewfinder, the Nikon Z fc channels classic style to fantastic effect. ✅ You like manual exposure control: Dedicated dials for ISO, shutter speed and exposure, complemented by a lens control ring, give excellent manual control.

❌ You need a wide choice of lenses: There are only a handful of Z-series kit lenses designed for the APS-C format, limiting your options for expansion. ❌ You want a rugged camera: Although it looks like the sturdy FM2, the Z fc isn’t weather-sealed, so it’s not one to take on rainy adventures.

Travel photography is all about capturing memories and Nikon’s Z fc fully embraces the concept of nostalgia: it’s a stunning homage to the 30-year-old Nikon FM2 – complete with retro styling, dimensions and dials. Despite the throwback design, it’s a very modern camera inside, sharing many of its specs with the capable Nikon Z50. While some photographers might wish for a full-frame sensor, the Z fc’s APS-C number does a stellar job of capturing stills and 4K video, aided by reliable tracking autofocus. Our tests found that its 20.9MP sensor had an excellent handle on noise, especially under ISO 800, while dynamic range was impressive.

Its vari-angle touchscreen is also a brilliant addition, making it easy to frame travel selfies – or folding away completely for a leather-back look that lets you pretend it's the Eighties. The Nikon Z fc isn’t as sturdy as the camera that inspired it (there’s no weatherproofing, for example), but it’s still a beautifully unique camera for casual use. And with dedicated dials for ISO, shutter speed and exposure, plus a customizable lens ring, it’s also an easy one to control on the go.

Read our in-depth Nikon Z fc review

4. GoPro Hero 12 Black

✅ You want a rugged travel camera: Waterproof down to 10m, the GoPro Hero 12 Black is a great choice for capturing action-packed travels. ✅ You plan to share on social: The 8:7 aspect ratio of its sensor gives you lots of flexibility to crop footage for social, including vertical videos.

❌ You plan to shoot in low light: Its 1/1.9in sensor shoots sharp footage, but it still struggles with noise handling in lower lighting conditions. ❌ You want a hybrid for stills: While the sensor can shoot 27MP stills, you’ll get a better photography experience from a standard alternative.

If you're looking for a high resolution action camera for your travels that's as comfortable shooting smooth videos as it is crisp photos, then the GoPro Hero 12 Black tops the bill. It was an underwhelming update of the Hero 11 Black, but that's not necessarily a bad thing because that camera was already highly capable. There's the same 1/1.9in sensor with versatile 8:9 aspect ratio – you can reframe footage for different social channels without sacrificing quality, and its max resolution of 5.3K/60p beats the DJI Osmo Action 4. You can capture dramatic TimeWarps at the full 5.3K resolution, shoot photo sequences as a rapid 30fps, and pull 24.7MP stills from 5.3K video.

Design-wise, there's no change to the Hero 11 Black, the two rugged models are physically identical and come with a large Enduro battery as standard, giving more time between recharges on the road. The same interface lets you tweak the user experience, with ‘Easy’ and ‘Pro’ modes to suit your skill level. Superior Horizon Lock and HyperSmooth 5.0 smarts do a remarkable job of stabilizing handheld video. Minor updates from the Hero 11 Black are mainly for pros, including flat Log color profiles, 10-bit video, and multi-channel audio capabilities. For most people however, there's little reason to upgrade or to pick the Hero 12 Black over its predecessor which could save you a little money. 

Read our in-depth hands-on GoPro Hero 12 Black review

5. OM System Tough TG-7

✅ You want a hardcore camera: With a case that’s waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof, the OM System Tough TG-7 is built to take a beating. ✅ You like a simple interface: Premium features include RAW shooting and 4K video, but the camera itself is easy to operate, even in tricky conditions.

❌ You want the best image quality: Results from the 1/2.3in sensor are fine, but the TG-7 tends to overexpose, and detail is lost at the telephoto end. ❌ You like using a viewfinder: The Tough TG-7 doesn’t have a viewfinder, and the 3-inch LCD screen has limited visibility in bright sunlight.

The biggest change in the OM System Tough TG-7 and the camera it replaces is in the name – since OM System acquired Olympus, it has wrought extremely minor upgrades to key models from the Olympus range, including the TG-6. None-the-less, we haven't seen another tough camera to better the TG-6 in that time, and so if you want the best tough camera available today, the TG-7 now tops the list. 

Tough cameras like the TG-6 are freeze-proof, shockproof and waterproof and can therefore be used in scenarios that you simply wouldn't consider with your phone or expensive camera, and for that reason the TG-7 is still one of the best travel cameras you can buy. Its industrial design feels reassuringly rugged, while large buttons make it convenient to operate beneath the waves or while wearing gloves, plus its 3-inch LCD display offers decent visibility in most conditions. 

We found image quality to be reasonable for a camera with a 1/2.3-inch sensor, with nice, rich colors – although there was a tendency to overexpose and blow out highlights. An equivalent zoom range of 25-100mm is fair, plus the inclusion of 4K video and raw shooting enhance flexibility. Its image quality might not match your phone for regular photos, but the TG-7 will allow you to be capturing extreme travel memories when you otherwise couldn't, plus there's a range of useful accessories such as a ring light for close up photography. 

Read our in-depth OM System Tough TG-7 review

6. Fujifilm X100VI

✅ You're exploring the city: With a fixed 23mm f/2 lens, Fujifilm's best autofocus, tilt screen and hybrid viewfinder, the X100V is a fantastic choice for street photography. ✅ You want a premium camera: From its retro design to its metal body, the X100V feels well-made and looks the business.

❌ You don’t want a fixed focal length: The 23mm lens is fantastic, but some users will find it limiting, especially if you value the ability to zoom. ❌ You’re on a tight budget: The X100VI is a popular but niche premium camera, and its increased price will put it out of budget for many.

We'd class the Fujifilm X100VI as a niche premium compact camera, but the range has grown in popularity since its inception in 2010 and is more popular than ever. The sixth generation model keeps the fixed 23mm f/2 lens and retro design that's been inspired by 1950s analogue cameras and despite its single focal length and no zoom it is one of the best travel cameras you can buy if it's in your price range.

The X100VI keeps all that users have grown to love about the X100-series; sharp fixed lens, large sensor, retro design, and unique hybrid viewfinder, but then builds on the X100V with a higher-resolution 40MP sensor and in-body image stabilization. The result is a significantly more versatile camera, for example the digital teleconverter can crop into the full image for 50mm (at 20MP) and 70mm (at 10MP) focal length looks, while stablization lets you shoot slower shutter speeds in low light.  

Other key improvements over the X100V include more detailed 6K video and Fujifilm's best-ever autofocus that includes advanced subject detection for photo and video. You can rely on the X100VI as a discreet everyday camera to document the world around, especially your travels, and it comes with 20 film simulation color profiles inspired by actual Fujifilm 35mm film that you can customize with recipes to develop your own style. 

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X100VI review

7. Sony A7C R

✅ You want the sharpest stills: With a 61MP full-frame sensor, you won’t get sharper travel snaps from any other camera in this list. ✅ You want a small, powerful camera: Despite the full-frame sensor inside, the A7C R is very compact and fits neatly in the hand.

❌ You value good handling: The small design has drawbacks, including a compromised viewfinder and absent AF joystick. ❌ You plan to use big lenses: Its compact proportions mean the Sony A7C R is mismatched with larger telephoto lenses.

By combining a small, travel-friendly form factor with a 61MP full frame sensor and fantastic autofocus, Sony has created arguably the ultimate travel camera. Successor to the Sony A7C – already one of our favorite travel photography tools – and announced alongside the A7C II , the A7C R fits nicely in the hand, while a flip screen and new dials offer welcome control.

Equipped with Sony’s top-grade autofocus and AI-powered subject tracking, the A7C R can cleverly and reliably track a broad range of subjects. You won’t find a better full frame sensor, either: borrowed from the A7R V , it captures stunning, pin-sharp stills in all conditions. Cropping potential is vast, and video footage is decent too.

There are trade-offs, though. In testing, we found that the A7C R’s compact proportions come with handling compromises, especially compared to the traditional design of the A7R V. The viewfinder feels small and fiddly, and we wish Sony had included an AF joystick. It’s also not a camera to pair with large telephoto lenses. But the real kicker is the cost: it’s significantly more expensive than the A7C II. That premium means it’s only a camera to consider if you need absolutely the best possible image quality on your travels.

Read our in-depth Sony A7C R review

8. Fujifilm X-S20

✅ You value longevity: The X-S20 has double the battery life of the X-S10, making it a great choice for long days of travel photography. ✅ You shoot video, too: Capturing sharp 26MP stills and 6K/30p open gate video, the Fujifilm X-S20 is a true mirrorless hybrid.

❌ You need weather proofing: Build quality of the X-S20 is good, but you’re better off with the Sony A6700 if you need a weatherproof camera. ❌ You have a limited budget: Its additional features come at the cost of a steep price hike compared to the Fujifilm X-S10, which makes it a harder sell.

Channelling everything we liked about the X-S10 – including a compact, well-balanced body – the Fujifilm X-S20 cements its position as a fantastic mirrorless cameras for travel. It handles comfortably, with simplified dials making it accessible for beginners. In testing, we found new novice-friendly features – such as a dedicated Vlogging mode – also make the X-S20 a forgiving camera for touring first-timers.

The X-S20 is blessed with a proven shooting system, utilising the same 26.1MP sensor as the X-S10 and X-T4 to produce quality stills. It also eases the way for beginners with an automatic scene detection mode, which harnesses the power of Fuji’s latest X-Processor 5 to reliably choose the correct settings. From our first impressions, it works better than the automatic subject tracking, which was a little hit and miss.

With 6K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit internal video recording also on offer, plus in-body image stabilization that worked well in testing, the Fujifilm X-S20 is a solid option for content creators on the move. The lack of weather-sealing will discourage adventurous travellers, while the price tag means it isn’t one to leave in an unattended bag. But at just 26g heavier than its predecessor, the X-S20 is a very capable all-rounder for travel.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-S20 review

9. Sony A6700

✅ You want a capable travel hybrid: A sharp APS-C sensor, five-axis stabilization and AI autofocus make the A6700 a great all-rounder to take on the road. ✅ You like to get hands-on: A more ergonomic grip and lots of direct-access buttons make the A6700 a nice camera to handle and use.

❌ You shoot mostly video: The A6700 can record sharp video, but there’s a heavy 1.6x crop on 4K/120p slow-mo and Active SteadyShot stabilization isn’t the best. ❌ You like simple menus: The interface on the A6700 has quite a learning curve, and it can be tricky to navigate when shooting out and about.

It's a close-run thing between the Sony A6700 and the Fujifilm X-S20 above, but if you shoot a lot of moving subjects then the Sony should be your choice. Like the Fuji, it has a 26MP APS-C sensor and comes in a compact, travel-friendly form. And like the Fuji, it's a genuine hybrid, offering decent video options to go with its stills prowess. But there are some key differences.

First, the good: the A6700 has the same AI-powered chipset as the far more expensive Sony A7R V , and this helps it deliver incredible subject tracking; seriously, this camera will lock on to humans, animals, insects, cars, trains, aircraft and more, then follow them unerringly around the frame. However, its video chops aren't as impressive as those of the Fuji. 4K 120p slow-mo footage is subjected to a heavy 1.6x crop, while the five-axis stabilization doesn't work as well when filming as it does when shooting stills. The complex menu system also leaves something to be desired.

Still, it handles well, has a great battery and would make an excellent all-rounder for your next trip - so long as you're slightly more focused on images than video.

Read our in-depth Sony A6700 review

10. Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

✅ You like to zoom in: With a sharp, fast 24-600mm, the RX100 IV offers fantastic versatility to capture a range of subjects on your travels. ✅ You want an all-in-one option: The RX100 IV is a high-end bridge camera with a big zoom range, high-quality EVF and capable AF system.

❌ You want a small camera: While it ticks most of the boxes for travel photography, the RX100 IV is bigger and heavier than many rivals. ❌ You like a slick touchscreen: Its tilting touchscreen is a useful addition, but you can’t use it to navigate menus or swipe through images.

In terms of offering something for everybody, the RX10 IV ticks a lot of boxes. It's like having a bag full of lenses, but with the benefit of never having to change them. There's a very long zoom (going all the way from 24-600mm), while the maximum aperture is pretty wide throughout the lens. 

The RX10 IV's sensor might not be as a large as the ones you'll find on a mirrorless camera or DSLR, but Sony's 20.1MP one-inch chip proved itself to be very capable in our tests. Noise was well-controlled, and you'd have no problem making an A3 print from one of its files (particularly if you shoot at under ISO 800). 

You also get 24fps shooting, cracking 4K video quality and handling to rival a DSLR. The major downside? The high price – if your budget is tighter, don't forget about this camera's predecessor, the RX10 III .

Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV review

How to choose the best travel camera for you

Picking the right travel camera can be trickier than finding affordable flights. You’ll want a shooting tool that’s compact enough to conveniently carry on your travels, yet still capable of capturing sharp stills and stable video of your jet-setting adventures.

There are a few key things to keep in mind when choosing your ideal travel camera. Among the most important is size. While pocketable compacts offer convenience, the quality of your travel snaps will be boosted by the bigger sensors of larger mirrorless models.

If your adventures are likely to involve going off the beaten track, it’s worth considering a travel camera with rugged credentials. This could be one of the best action cameras , such as the GoPro Hero 11 Black – perfect if you plan to shoot quick, slick travel clips. Or it could be a sturdy compact such as the Olympic TG-6, which is one of the best waterproof cameras .

It’s also worth thinking about what subjects you might be shooting on your trip. A long zoom range will be handy on safari , while something light and fast is better for capturing street snaps on a city break. Travel compacts, such as the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200, usually use a zoom lens to cover a range of shooting scenarios. Interchangeable lens cameras like the Fujifilm X-T30 II can similarly offer the flexibility of both worlds, but only if you’re happy to travel with extra barrels in your backpack.

Which type of camera is best for traveling?

Travel cameras come in a range of shapes and sizes. Which style is best for you will depend on how you like to travel, what you like to shoot and how much gear you’re willing to cart around.

Travel zoom compacts such as the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 are pocket friendly, yet offer a broad scope for capturing a range of subjects. Thanks to generous zoom ranges, they give you the opportunity to get close to the action, or to shoot wide. The trade-off for having all of this flexibility in a compact body is generally a smaller sensor, which is less useful for shooting in low light.

If you’d like neat proportions but don’t need the versatility of a zoom lens, premium compact cameras could be worth considering. Models such as the Fujifilm X100V sacrifice zoom range in favour of larger sensors that are better at gathering light – usually a one-inch or, in the case of the X100V, an APS-C chip.

Between compacts and mirrorless cameras is where you’ll find bridge cameras. Bulkier than a standard compact, they offer more comfortable handling and a large zoom range, but without the need to carry different lenses. New bridge cameras are increasingly rare, but the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV remains a great example.

If you don’t mind traveling with multiple lenses, many of the best mirrorless cameras have been specifically designed with travel in mind. In the case of models like the OM System OM-5 , that means a portable, weatherproof body, useful image stabilization for shooting on the move, plus a versatile Micro Four Thirds sensor that balances size and performance. And with lots of different lenses to choose from, you can pack different optics depending on the type of trip you’re taking – or opt for a reliable all-round option.

Is a DSLR or mirrorless camera better for travel photography?

When it comes to travel photography, most photographers look for a balance between portability and performance. If this is the combination you’re after, mirrorless cameras will almost aways have the edge over their DSLR rivals. Mirrorless models are generally smaller and lighter than DSLRs, making them easier to wield and travel with.

Despite their more compact proportions, many of the best mirrorless travel cameras can also match or outclass DSLR cameras when it comes to image quality, as well as autofocus abilities and video features. This makes them versatile tools for shooting on the move, especially if you choose a model with in-body image stabilization for sharp handheld results. If you pick a mirrorless camera with an established lens mount system, you’ll also find no shortage of glass to pack for your trip.

That said, there are reasons why you might still want to consider a DSLR camera for travel. Some photographers prefer the chunkier ergonomic grip for which the DSLR format is famous, especially if they plan on shooting for hours on end. The best DSLR cameras also offer superlative battery life, which can be useful if your travel plans include days away from electricity.

Budget might also be a factor, especially if you’re concerned about taking an expensive camera on your travels. Older DSLR cameras can offer great value, as can second-hand mirrorless models. It’s also worth looking at our round-up of the best cheap cameras , which includes some options that are a good fit for travel photography.

• Read our in-depth DSLR vs Mirrorless comparison

How we test travel cameras

Buying a camera these days is a big investment, and travel cameras are no different – so every camera in this guide has been tested extensively by us. For travel cameras in particular, real-world tests are the most revealing way to understand a camera's performance and character, so we focus heavily on those, along with standardized tests for factors like ISO performance.

To start with, we look at the camera's design, handling and controls to get a sense of how suitable it is for life on the road, and any particular features that might be particularly useful for globe-trotters. When we take it out on a shoot, we'll use it both handheld and on a tripod to get a sense of where its strengths lie, and test its startup speed.

When it comes to performance, we use a formatted SD card and shoot in both raw and JPEG (if available). For burst shooting tests, we dial in our regular test settings (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) and shoot a series of frames in front of a stopwatch to see if it lives up to its claimed speeds. We'll also look at how quickly the buffers clears and repeat the test for both raw and JPEG files.

In various lighting conditions, we also test the camera's different autofocus modes (including Face and Eye AF) in single point, area and continuous modes. We also shoot a range of photos of different styles (portrait, landscape, low light, macro/close-up) in raw and JPEG to get a sense of metering and its sensor's ability to handle noise and resolve fine detail.

If the camera's raw files are supported by Adobe Camera Raw, we'll also process some test images to see how we can push areas like shadow recovery. And we'll also test its ISO performance across the whole range to get a sense of the levels we'd be happy to push the camera to.

Battery life is tested in a real-world fashion, as we use the camera over the course of the day with the screen set to the default settings. Once the battery has reached zero, we'll then count the number of shots to see how it compares to the camera's CIPA rating. Finally, we test the camera's video skills by shooting some test footage at different frame-rates and resolutions, along with its companion app.

We then take everything we've learned about the camera and factor in its price to get a sense of the value-for-money it offers, before reaching our final verdict.

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Tim is the Cameras editor at TechRadar. He has enjoyed more than 15 years in the photo video industry with most of those in the world of tech journalism. During his time as Deputy Technical Editor with Amateur Photographer, as a freelancer and consequently editor at Tech Radar, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with cameras, educating others through news, reviews and features. He’s also worked in video production for Studio 44 with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi. Tim is curious, a keen creative, avid footballer and runner, and moderate flat white drinker who has lived in Kenya and believes we have much to enjoy and learn from each other. 

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10 Best Lenses for Travel Photography (in 2024)

A Post By: Jeremy Flint

Travel photography is a highly rewarding pursuit, but if you’re serious about getting the best shots, it pays to carry the right equipment, including a lens that can handle a broad range of travel subjects: astrophotography, architecture, landscapes, people, food, and more.

That’s where this article comes in handy. Below, I use my experience as a professional travel photographer to rank the 10 best travel photography lenses on the market in 2024, including options for plenty of budgets, brands, and camera systems (including models for the latest and greatest mirrorless lineups).

So whether you’re new to travel photography and looking to purchase your first lens, or you’re a travel-photography veteran looking to invest in some pro-quality glass, this article will give you everything you need to get started.

Let’s dive right in!

1. Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S

The Z 24-120mm f/4 S is our all-time favorite travel photography lens – and for a whole host of reasons, too. For one, it provides an impressive range of focal lengths, which is perfect for those seeking a single high-quality lens for all their travel needs. At 24mm, you can capture beautiful travel landscape shots; at 50mm, you can shoot portraits; and a 120mm, you can capture detailed photos of distant landscapes and architectural features.

The 24-120mm f/4 S is impressively sharp, so even if you’re hoping to create magazine-quality files or large prints, it’ll be up to the task. And while the lens only features an f/4 maximum aperture, this should be enough for all but the most demanding conditions, especially if you’re willing to carry a good travel tripod .

The elegant and attractive design, compact size, and solid build make it a great choice for amateur and pro-level travel photographers alike. It’s not the cheapest lens on the market, but the price is reasonable compared to f/2.8 alternatives, and you certainly get a lot for your money.

2. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM

Regarded as one of the heavyweights of the photography manufacturing industry, Canon offers some of the best travel photography lenses on the market – including the impressive EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM, an absolute travel classic that combines a versatile zoom range with built-in image stabilization.

This lens is great for all-around shooting; it covers a broad range of focal lengths, and you can capture everything from expansive cityscapes to architectural details, which makes the lens suitable for travel photographers of all stripes. No, it can’t quite go toe to toe with the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 in terms of versatility, but the price is significantly less, and the extra 15mm on the long end won’t make a huge difference for most shooters.

The 24-105mm f/4 boasts impressive sharpness, though the f/4 maximum aperture isn’t as fast as f/2.8 options (and therefore less than ideal for astrophotography and handheld photography in low light). But if you’re in need of a do-everything lens for serious travel shooting, the 24-105mm is a great pick.

3. Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM

If you are using Canon’s latest mirrorless cameras – such as the EOS R5, R6, or R7 – then the RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM is a great introductory lens, particularly if you travel frequently and wish to minimize gear weight.   This handy little unit is remarkably compact, and you can slip it in a bag, a backpack, or a purse without issue (though you’ll want to make sure you protect it from bumps and scrapes!).

The lens is also excellent for travel shooting thanks to its expansive focal-length range and outstanding versatility; with wide, standard, and telephoto focal lengths, you can capture pretty much any subject, including landscapes, cityscapes, detail shots, and street portraits.

The 24-240mm is also reasonably well priced, making it a decent choice for beginners (compared to other RF-mount lenses, anyway!). Unfortunately, the lens does include some disadvantages – the maximum aperture is relatively narrow for low-light shooting, the optics aren’t on the same level as Canon’s L-lens lineup, and no lens hood is supplied – but if you’re looking for a do-everything lens to get started with travel photography, it’s a solid choice.

4. Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR

The Nikon Z 24-240mm f/4-6.3 is a solid mirrorless lens for travel photography; the zoom range makes it capable of handling nearly any situation, and the quiet autofocus is great for capturing people and even wildlife unobtrusively.

The lens boasts plenty of travel photography possibilities thanks to its impressive portability and great design. Optically, expect to capture clear, sharp, and vivid images at every focal length, though you may encounter some softening toward the image corners.

The weather sealing prevents dust and moisture from entering the lens, and even serious travel photographers will appreciate the wide-to-telephoto zoom range, ideal for pretty much any type of travel photography, including landscapes, architecture, flowers, portraits, and more. The variable maximum aperture isn’t great for folks who often work handheld in low light, but you can handle most difficult scenarios by carrying a tripod, so this shouldn’t pose too much of a problem.

5. Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS

Sony offers an excellent lineup of APS-C mirrorless cameras, many of which are perfect for travel photography thanks to their compact size and impressive image quality. Of course, every travel camera needs a good lens, and the Sony 18-105mm f/4 is our first choice; it combines solid build quality, great optics, and a good price for an all-around impressive package.

While not a superzoom, the lens spans an impressive 5.8x zoom range from ultra-wide to short telephoto. It works especially well for street photography and even landscapes, where you can zoom in and out to frame shots accordingly, though it’s certainly a capable portrait and architecture lens, as well.

Autofocus is smooth and quiet, plus the lens also boasts Optical SteadyShot technology, which reduces camera shake and prevents blur when working handheld in low light. The f/4 maximum aperture isn’t ideal for shooting in the dark, but it’s not terrible, either, and even serious shooters will manage to make do. Finally, the lens is a Sony pro-quality lens, yet despite the excellent image and build quality, it’s surprisingly affordable, so it’s a good pick for serious photographers who are on a budget.

6. Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS

The Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS is an impressive all-around lens for travel photography; use it to photograph landscapes, architecture, people, and even (at 135mm) the occasional wildlife. Note that the lens is compatible with Sony’s E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras but will not give great results on Sony full-frame models.

One of the lens’s key features is the built-in OSS (Optical SteadyShot) technology, which is great for low-light handholding. And if you frequently capture detail shots, you’ll love the short minimum focusing distance. The 18-135mm is lightweight and compact, too, which makes it perfect for the amateur photographer in search of a first travel photography lens. You can easily store it in a backpack or bag, and thanks to its small size, you can leave it on your camera for days of shooting and you’ll hardly even notice.

It’s not the most optically impressive lens, and the variable maximum aperture is a bit of a letdown, but for casual travel photography, the 18-135mm is certainly worth a look.

7. Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 WR LM R OIS

If you’re a Fujifilm shooter, then look no further; the XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is one of the best travel lenses on the market, and it’s certainly an outstanding option for Fujifilm camera users. It’s great for capturing a wide range of travel subjects, from landscapes and cityscapes to wildlife and people, while the 5-stop image stabilization will keep you shooting crisp handheld shots in low light.

You can get in close to your subjects thanks to a short minimum focusing distance (always handy for detail shots). And solid weather resistance, not to mention impressive image quality, are both welcome features of this amazing lens. As with a number of other models on this list, the variable maximum aperture is somewhat limiting, and the lens is on the expensive side, but the great optics and useful focal length range make this handy lens our favorite Fuji pick.

8. Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 12-60mm f/2.8-4 OIS

If you’re a Panasonic shooter, then this 12-60mm f/2.8-4 lens is one of the best travel lenses you can buy; it delivers a superb focal-length range on Four Thirds cameras , spanning from 24mm to 120mm. You’ll get plenty of travel photography opportunities, and you can expect to capture breathtaking wide landscapes, standard street shots, and even mid-telephoto portraits. Thanks to the telephoto reach on the long end, you can even zoom in to highlight specific features, or you can hunt for architectural abstracts and the like.

This lens is lightweight, compact, and delivers sharp image quality even at 60mm. And don’t forget about the built-in image stabilization, which lets you shoot in low light without a tripod, always helpful for travel shooters. Unfortunately, the maximum aperture does narrow as you zoom from 12mm to 60mm, but you can still work with a decently wide f/4 aperture, even at 60mm.

9. Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM

The Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 is a great travel lens for Canon and Nikon APS-C users, and it boasts an impressive combination of features, from a lightweight, compact design to an expansive zoom range. The price is highly reasonable for beginner travel photographers, too, which makes it a great budget lens (especially compared to standard Canon and Nikon options).

Note that the Sigma 18-200mm is designed for APS-C DSLRs, so you can expect focal-length reach spanning from around 27mm to 300mm, which is absolutely outstanding for basically any type of subject, be it landscapes, portraits, street scenes, or wildlife. You’ll also like the included lens hood, which lets you block out sunlight in impressive conditions for improved optical performance.

And although the lens is missing weather sealing, the built-in image stabilization offers improved performance in low light and is ideal for nighttime street photography, interior scenes, and more.

10. Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III VC

If you need a versatile travel photography lens for Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras, then check out the Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3, which offers an impressive zoom range for landscapes, cityscapes, architectural details, people, and pretty much everything else.

The built-in image stabilization system will keep your photos sharp in low light, while the advanced design delivers extraordinary image quality (even if sharpness falls off toward the telephoto end of the zoom range). Often lengthy zooms like this one suffer optically, but we’re quite impressed overall by its capabilities, and it offers enough detail for printing and high-quality displays.

The lens body is lightweight and compact, so you won’t feel weighted down by gear as you shoot, and the price is highly affordable – in other words, it’s yet another outstanding option for travel photographers on a budget.

The best lens for travel photography: final words

Ultimately, the best lens for travel photography depends on your camera setup, your image requirements, and what you plan to shoot. At the end of the day, it’s a personal choice – and as long as the lens you choose is compatible with your camera system, covers the zoom range you require, is within your budget, and delivers the right image quality, you can’t go wrong.

So good luck choosing a travel lens!

Now over to you:

Which lens will you purchase? Which is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Read more from our Cameras & Equipment category

Jeremy Flint is an award-winning photographer and writer, specialising in travel, landscape and location photography and is known for documenting images of beautiful destinations, cultures and communities from around the world. Jeremy has won awards including the National Geographic Traveller Grand Prize and the Association of Photographers Discovery Award, besides being commended in Outdoor Photographer of the Year. He has also been a finalist in the Travel Photographer of the year and British Photography Awards several times. He has been commissioned by commercial and editorial clients worldwide including National Geographic Traveller, Country Life, Discover Britain, USA National Parks and Visit Britain and has travelled extensively to over 65 countries.

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Our Expert Guide to the BEST Travel Cameras in 2024

• Last Updated: December 13, 2023

We’ve spent years working as professional travel photographers, and are proud to have put together this definitive guide to the best travel cameras in 2024 for every budget, based on actual hands-on experience.

One of the best souvenirs you can bring home from your adventures abroad is photographs.

As the old saying goes, pictures are worth a thousand words, and nothing brings back the excitement and thrill of holiday memories quite like looking back at your photos.

These days almost everybody has a decent camera in their pocket, thanks to the wonders of modern smartphones. And while these are fine for the average person, if you really want great image quality, you’re going to have to invest in something better.

People say, “It’s not the camera that takes good photos, it’s the photographer”, and this is completely true. Yet there’s a reason professionals use expensive gear – they are better for the job.

Never fear though, that doesn’t mean you need to go out and spend $10k on a set-up! Definitely not.

In fact this article is going to save you time and money by diving straight into the best travel camera for every budget.

So why listen to us?

We’ve been working as professional travel photographers for almost a decade, and have been fortunate enough to put hundreds of cameras to the test during our career.

Based on our personal experience, we’ve been able to narrow down the absolute top choice in every category.

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or professional, or even if you know nothing at all, we’ll help you make the right choice so you don’t waste your money getting something that just isn’t up to the job.

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide on how to take better travel photos .

Let’s dive into our comprehensive guide for the best camera for travel photography.

Table of Contents

Our Recommendation

Bonus: recommended lenses for sony a6600, bonus: recommended lenses for sony a7iv, size and weight, resolution/megapixels, interchangeable lenses, manual settings, weatherproofing, stabilization, mirrorless vs dslr, what camera do most professional photographers use, what camera is best for travel videos, what is the best small camera for travel, what is the best travel camera in 2024.

Without further ado, let’s get into the article!

Disclaimer – NOMADasaurus is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and the Amazon EU Associates Programme, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

GoPro HERO12 Black – The Best Action Camera

Action cameras have come a long way since we bought our first one back in 2010.

They used to be reserved just for people who were into extreme sports – skiing, skydiving, motocross, scuba diving, etc.

Now they have become one of the top travel cameras on the market thanks to their durability, compact size and high quality.

The good ones shoot in at least 4K video (this one though actually goes up to 5.3k), are completely waterproof and even connect to your phone so can take great photos from any angle.

They also shoot time-lapse photography, which is great if you’re catching an epic sunrise or particularly busy urban scene.

Even if you are not interested in jumping off of cliffs or mountain biking through a jungle, having an action compact camera is still a brilliant tool to have in your suitcase.

They are especially awesome if you’re looking for the best cameras for adventure travel.

The undisputed king of action sports cameras is GoPro, and we’ve been proudly using them for over 13 years.

These epic cameras have insane image quality and shoot some remarkable video. They’re also extremely durable, waterproof and fit in your pocket.

Adding to the GoPro series is a huge range of accessories that makes getting footage limited by only your imagination.

Check out our brand new GoPro HERO12 Black review to see if it’s right for you!

Different mounts allow you to put them just about anywhere, extension poles get unique angles (perfect for selfies), you can stick a GoPro on a tripod and there are even filters available.

We’ve had just about every GoPro camera since the original HERO was released, and we’re super excited to share that the newest one on the market is by far the best ever.

Their latest camera is the GoPro HERO12 Black , following hot off the heels of the successful HERO11 (click the link to read our review of it), and it’s risen the bar once again.

When the HERO7 came out they introduced a number of revolutionary features, such as HyperSmooth (in-built image stabilisation), TimeWarp (awesome hyper-lapse videos) and SuperPhoto (HDR photos on steroids).

The HERO9 added a front-facing LCD screen, which really stepped things up a notch, especially for vloggers.

The HERO10 brought in the new GP2 processor, which made everything work, well, just better.

The HERO11 went bonkers with a brand new larger sensor, 10-bit colour and all new aspect ratio.

And now with the HERO12 the company has gone and made everything more refined with a host of new features and upgraded battery life.

Boasting the fantastic GP2 processor, 1/1.9″ sensor and 8:7 aspect ratio, the latest GoPro HERO12 Black now has HDR video to go along with the expert camera settings.

The massive aspect ratio gives more room to crop, so you can shoot in one perspective and scale later for portrait social media content or landscape YouTube videos.

The camera shoots in 5.3k 60 frames per second, 4k at 120fps and 2.7k at a whopping 240fps (8x slow motion), which also allowing for 27 megapixel screen grabs when using 5.3k on the full 8:7 ratio.

The stabilization is even better with HyperSmooth 6.0 (in-built horizon levelling up to 360 degrees), TimeWarp 4.0 allows to switch between hyper-lapse, real-time and slow-mo recording in the same video with a tap of the screen, and the SuperPhoto has improved HDR abilities.

The screens are still very responsive and look excellent.

SuperPhoto for photographers, in particular, means you can point and shoot, and barely have to edit before uploading to social media. Although we still recommend shooting in RAW for the pros out there.

This article talks more about how to take better GoPro photos, written by a pro.

For the purists out there, the GoPro HERO12 shoots in RAW format for all photo modes.

There is still voice activation and the entire unit is waterproof to 10m, meaning there is no need for a dive housing if you’re not going below that depth.

Also the all-new Night Effects modes are really awesome. Who would have thought you could capture light trails and the Milky Way on such a tiny camera?

For the video gurus out there the HERO12 is a gimbal killer. What does that mean? It means HyperSmooth 6.0 is on another level.

The HERO7 stabilisation was amazing for vlogging and action sports, as was the HERO8 and 9, but after testing the new HERO12, the stabilisation is even better again. Don’t know how they do it, but they do! And it works at 4K at 120fps, TimeWarp and live streaming!

Want slow motion? How does 2.7k at 240FPS sound? Buttery smooth, that’s for sure.

Whereas in previous models they had White, Silver and Black models, the HERO12 only has a Black model.

Canon Powershot SX740HS – The Best Affordable Camera

If you want a dedicated camera that is cheap and still takes decent photos then you really are spoiled for choice.

We’ve personally owned a whole range of different brands in this range, from Canon to Fuji to Olympus to Sony, and with the way the best travel camera market is now if you’re not fussy about the brand you get, then you can’t really go wrong. But let us explain what you’ll need.

You’ll basically be looking for a small point and shoot, something that is foolproof and most importantly quite durable. Having a big zoom range is a big bonus so you can crop right in on different scenes.

The ability to use manual settings will come in handy if you ever want to play around and learn a bit more about how photography works.

And you want something affordable so that you won’t be overly worried if you lose it (just make sure you backup your photos).

The Canon Powershot SX720HS was a hugely successful compact camera, and Canon backed it up with the amazing SX730HS to become the best budget travel camera.

But like all good camera companies, Canon has stepped it up a notch again by bringing out the newest model in the range, the SX740HS .

This great little travel camera does it all, and for the price, it is the best travel zoom camera out there.

40x optical zoom, manual settings, shoots in 4K video, good color grading, and it is one of the better compact cameras out there.

It also has wifi so you can transfer photos straight to your phone or laptop without plugging it in, or control the camera from your phone. Perfect for the general traveler who just wants something to take decent photos with on their trip.

It also has a large articulated screen, so you can angle your shots perfectly, whether you’re shooting from the ground or above the head.

A few more updates over the SX730HS is an improved small sensor, meaning better low light capabilities, and faster burst shooting, cementing its position as the best budget camera for travelling.

READ MORE: Check out our latest guide on the best camera accessories !

Sony RX100 vii – The Best Compact Camera for Travel

This is the next level up. You still want the portability and benefits of having a point and shoot, but you want to take incredible photos too.

You’re interested in learning about the fundamentals of photography, and perhaps want to one day print your photos or maybe put them up online. Ultimately you’re after the best pocket camera for travel.

Here are the things you’ll need: Full manual control, a decent size sensor, zoom, high-quality video, flip screen (so you can shoot from different angles while still framing your shot), ability to shoot in RAW format, good ISO performance and a wide aperture.

This is the category that most people will be in. So if you’re asking yourself what is the best compact digital camera for traveling, read on…

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide to the best landscape photography tips !

This is, in our opinion, the best point and shoot camera for travel on the market. It does everything you’ll ever need it to do and has incredible image quality in a premium compact size.

Sony have completely revolutionized the market with the RX100 range, and with each update it just gets better and better.

Without a doubt there’s no better option for the best compact camera for travel out there than the Sony RX100 vii right now.

The Mark 7 has a very long zoom range (8.6x optical, up from 3.6x optical, which is like having a 24-200mm lens), an amazing 20mp one-inch sensor to capture huge dynamic range, high quality 4K video and an articulating flip screen.

It’s an expensive camera, yes, but if you want the absolute best quality on the market in a small, compact unit that fits in your pocket, this is the best travel camera out right now.

BONUS TIP – If you want to create travel vlogs and have a decent camera for photography too, this is the model for you!

Canon G7X Mark iii – Best Camera for Vlogging

Vlogging is the newest craze, and it’s quite literally taking over as the new digital media of choice for many travelers and influencers.

If making videos is more your style instead of taking photos, then you’re going to want to look at a camera that has a range of specific features.

Most importantly is the ability to shoot in 4K (even if not many people have 4K monitors today, in a few years it will be common and you’re going to want to have footage to match the current standard).

Once you’ve got this another handy feature is an articulated LCD screen that can face you while you’re talking in the lens.

This allows you to frame your shot instead of cutting off half your head. Lastly you’ll want a microphone jack to catch better audio.

Get the camera, start filming and put some great videos up on YouTube ! Sounds easy, right? But what is the best travel camera for vlogging…

We’ve used more vlogging cameras than we can remember, from full-frame setups to GoPros and even putting to the test the brand new Sony ZV-1F .

But what have we settled on?

The Canon G7X Mark ii has always been considered the ultimate travel camera for vlogging, but it fell short in a few different categories.

That’s all changed now with the newest upgrade, the G7X Mark iii .

Shooting fantastic 4k video, this travel camera now has an in-built microphone jack for improved audio, a flip-up touchscreen for keeping your face in frame, and has a faster start-up time than previously.

The image quality is also much better now, and with manual control functions it really is a premium compact travel camera.

Sony A6600 – Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel

You’ve broken out of the realm of standard point and shoots, and you’re looking for a camera that has interchangeable lenses.

You’re getting into the idea of shooting wide, or perhaps portrait shots. Maybe you really would like to get a longer zoom.

Most of all, you really want to get serious about photography.

In your kit will be a range of lenses for a range of situations. You can look at getting filters to give beautiful effects on your shots. You might even want to start growing your photography portfolio .

A few years ago everyone would have recommended you to get an entry-level DSLR. This is no longer the case.

With the way mirrorless technology has gone DSLRs are losing traction and popularity. Now you can get something with the same image quality for half the size.

The Sony A6600 is an absolute powerhouse and puts up a good fight for being the ultimate travel camera.

For entry-level mirrorless cameras, Sony broke the mould by introducing the A6000 a few years ago. Since then every model has been lightyears ahead of the competition.

The latest A6600 is their newest offering, and for a compact camera, it is seriously next level.

It boasts one of the fastest autofocus capabilities of any camera on the market, an improved APS-C sensor capable of high-level video and great image quality, a touch-enabled articulating LCD screen and excellent electronic viewfinder.

The range of lenses available for this Sony mirrorless camera is huge, and manages to cover all bases for whether you want to shoot 4K video or take images that you can sell to magazines.

You can really get away with the standard lenses that come in most kits, but there are a couple of exceptions that you could splurge out for.

All Sony E mount lenses will fit onto the Sony A6XXX series (including the spectacular full-frame range, with a crop factor).

So if you are ever considering an upgrade to full frame and want to buy some new lenses for your APS-C sensor, you can fork out the money early and still use your lenses later on.

Best Wide Angle Lens

There’s really only one option in this range, and it’s the brilliant 10-18mm F4 . To this day one of the best photos we’ve seen taken of the Petronas Towers was taken with a Sony A6000 (older model) and this lens.

Best Portrait Lens

The Sony 50mm F1.8 is a great choice for a native portrait lens. It’s light, fast and cheap. 

The quality is decent without being amazing, but it definitely does a wonderful job for what you pay for.

Otherwise step up to the FE 55mm F1.8 (read about it below), although this will give you a 85mm perspective on the APS-C sensor.

Best Zoom Lens

Keeping with the affordable and light range that makes for great travel camera lenses, we recommend the Sony 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 .

For the amateur and hobbyist photographer, this will do just about everything you need and is a solid lens to have in your kit.

Sony A7iv – Best Professional Camera for Travel Photography

If you’re like us and want to make capturing the absolute best images of your travels a priority, then you’ll be looking at a professional range of travel cameras.

Following on from the discussion on mirrorless vs DSLR above, you’ll get many professional photographers who choose to stick to cameras like the Canon 6D or 5D series, or the Nikon D750 or D810.

These are legendary cameras in the industry, and with the enormous range of lenses available for each one, there’s a reason the best in the business use them.

But, we’re talking about travel cameras. And for this, we recommended sticking to mirrorless. 

Full frame DSLRs are big and heavy, whereas their equivalent in mirrorless are a fraction of the size.

If you have decided you want to take the leap to a full frame sensor and want to be rocking the best mirrorless camera for travel, then you have only two choices.

READ MORE: But you need to carry everything, right? Here’s our new expert guide to the best camera backpacks on the market today!

Sony was the first major camera producer to create a full frame mirrorless camera, and while Canon has finally caught up, Sony has years of research and development on their side.

The Sony A7 series is almost flawless. Fantastic image quality, 4K video capabilities (on the A7R, A7S and the A7iv), articulating LCD screens, wifi, light, compact and a whole range of native lenses available for it makes them the absolute best cameras for traveling.

And with the Metabones adaptors you can even use your old Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Samyang or other type of lenses on it.

As of 2024, Sony’s top cameras are the A1, A7iv, A7Siii, A7Rv and the A9ii. Now while the A9ii, A7Rv and A1 are absolute beasts of cameras, the truth is you most likely don’t need all the features they have.

We currently own the A7iv and A7Rv, and for professional travel photography, they are the best on the market.

The image quality is superb and the dynamic range is insane. The low light capabilities are also amazing. Even at ISO 12800, there’s barely any noise that shows up on the shot compared to a compact camera.

We personally recommend the A7iv as the best travel camera out there , as it’s just damn near perfect, especially as a hybrid photo and video camera.

4K video with 60fps, a lightning-fast autofocus system, joystick control, touch screen, fast processor, upgraded full frame sensor and amazing battery life.

If you’re the kind of person that loves to blow up their images for print, or does a lot of cropping when you edit your shots, then that’s the only reason you’ll want to step up to the A7Rv, as it has a 62mp sensor.

But wait – isn’t the brand new Sony A7Rv the best in class right now? Yes, it is. However, while it is absolutely incredible and takes things up another notch, it’s quite expensive and the megapixel count is likely not something you need..

Instead we recommend that you save your money on the body, put what’s left over towards some lenses, and get the A7iv be your go to camera for travel photography.

If you’re going for the Sony A7 series, we’ve got some bad news for you. Full frame lenses are expensive.

But if you’re considering turning your photography hobby into a profession, then this is a small sacrifice to make for the quality of photos you’ll be taking.

Trust us, if you’re buying the best camera for travel photography on the market, you’ll want to also have the best lenses to go with it.

The great thing with the Sony Alpha series is that their lenses are all interchangeable, meaning if you start out with a Sony A6600 and eventually upgrade to a Sony A7iv, you can take your old lenses and put them on the new camera (but it will have a crop factor).

Best All-Round Lens

The new FE 24-105mm f4 lens from Sony is pretty much the best all round travel zoom lens for photography.

It’s damn sharp, and with a constant aperture of f4, it means you can get excellent bokeh and decent low-light performance at any focal length.

This lens practically lives on our A7iv, as it’s so versatile, great for video and the image quality is fantastic.

The Sony 16-35mm f2.8 GM lens is one of the best wide angle lenses on the market, and when you throw it on your travel camera, you’re almost guaranteed to get fantastic shots.

Pretty much every review on photography sites raves about it, and having owned it for over three years now, we completely agree.

It’s not cheap, but to have such a fast and wide native lens for the Sony setup is pretty epic! If you want a cheaper alternative, check out the 16-35mm f4 , which is also very good.

Best Prime Lens

If you are into portrait or street photography make sure you get the FE 55mm F1.8 prime lens.

It’s very fast, very light and very sharp. And with such a good value, it may be the best prime lens that Sony makes (excluding the high-end GM series).

Owning a telephoto lens isn’t just about taking photos of wildlife or zooming in on things that are far away from you. It adds a whole new creative element known as lens compression to your arsenal.

This is the optical illusion that happens when the further you zoom into something, the bigger the background appears.

You start to get this effect from around 100mm and on, so if you’re looking for the best zoom lens to put on your Sony A7iv, consider the 70-200 f2.8 GMii lens, or the 100-400mm GM lens .

We have both of these zoom lenses, and we love love love them!

DJI Mavic Air 2 – The Best Drone for Travel

Aerial photography has gained in popularity over the last two years, and it’s easy to see why. 

Not that long ago the only way to get photos from the sky was by taking a chartered flight or helicopter.

But today just about anyone can go out, buy a drone and start taking shots from very unique angles.

The appeal is obvious. Capturing epic photos and video of landscapes from a perspective that few have ever seen before.

From the moment we bought our first drone (a DJI Phantom 4) we fell in love with it.

Good drones up until now have always been quite prohibitive when it comes to travel due to their bulky size.

The DJI Phantom series helped make it more accessible for most people, but even then it was still a commitment to travel with one.

Today the best drone for travel has finally been determined.

The DJI Mavic series is what you should be looking for when considering a travel drone.

With foldable legs and compact size, they tick all the boxes for portability.

There are a few different models to consider, and it really depends on your needs.

If you’re a professional, we recommend the DJI Mavic 2 Pro , thanks to its 1-inch Hasselblad Sensor and 360-degree collision avoidance.

But just announced is the Mavic Air 2 , and with features like 48-megapixel photo mode, panorama capabilities and 4k video, it’s the best option for anybody trying to take travel photos from the air on their next trip.

Its small size and great value makes it perfect for travel, but one thing to consider is the fixed focal length, meaning you can’t zoom in to take photos.

Note – With whatever drone you buy we highly recommend buying extra batteries. You’ll be surprised how quickly you chew through these. Check out the bundle packages from DJI (called ‘Fly More’ on the Mavics).

GoPro Max – Best 360 Travel Camera

With virtual reality becoming more and more popular, it might be no surprise that one of the best travel cameras for 2024 is actually a 360-degree camera!

These incredible little devices come with multiple cameras on one piece, managing to capture an entire scene in one shot in both photos and high definition video.

When they first came out they were very poor quality, but now they’ve improved enough that we actually travel with one full-time now.

360 cameras became popular when the Chinese company Insta360 started to bring out their affordable options, but the image quality was always pretty poor.

Then GoPro stepped onto the scene with the Fusion, and it changed the industry forever.

With all the standard great features GoPro is known for, such as being waterproof, having awesome connectivity and packing it all into compact cameras, the Fusion took things to the next level.

It did require a bit of work to use though, and the stitching wasn’t great. Plus with two SD card slots required to save media, it was just that bit too cumbersome for most photographers.

Cue the Max!

The GoPro Max took the best parts of all their cameras and threw it together into one unit with this one.

The Max, with its dual lenses on either side of the body, now uses just one SD card, making storage and management so much easier, and it has a touch LCD screen that can be used on the go.

For people looking for travel cameras that can do it all, it doesn’t just shoot in 360-degree mode.

There is their ultra-wide single perspective, and for having a small sensor, the low light shots are surprisingly good.

If you’re a travel vlogger you’ll be amazed at the quality of this! The inbuilt microphones do a great job at picking up audio while cutting out background noise, and the battery life is great.

It shoots at 5.6k video quality and 30 frames per second. You can change the pitch, yaw, field of view and angles to get the view you desire.

Even more unique, it can create 360 time-lapses and hyper lapses with a simple click. No need to pull it up in a program like Adobe Premiere Pro to make your videos any more!

Best of all it connects seamlessly to your smartphone using the GoPro app, so you can do all your editing, sticking and keyframing on the go.

When it comes to a travel camera that tries to do it all, this one is hard to beat.

That concludes our list of the best cameras for traveling. Let us know if you have any other recommendations, or if you use any of these cameras while traveling the world!

How to Choose the Best Camera for Travel 

No matter what level you are, the first piece of kit you are going to need to buy is the camera.

This can range from a cheap point-and-shoot right up to a top-of-the-line DSLR that can cost as much as a small car.

A quick visit to a camera store can leave you feeling completely overwhelmed with all the choices.

Keep on scrolling to find detailed information about each of these, and why they really are the best cameras for travel.

READ MORE: See what made the cut as the best travel tripod on the market in our expert guide!

What Features to Look for in a Travel Camera

There’s a number of different features that you need to look for when searching for the best travel camera to buy, based on your needs.

The first thing to look out for is how big and heavy a camera is.

When you’re on the road traveling, weight and space is a huge issue to overcome. You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy backpack full of gear if you don’t have to.

If you’re not a pro or a big enthusiast, we recommend checking out a compact camera or mirrorless camera, as they are smaller and more portable, while also providing decent image quality.

One thing that camera companies and salespeople like to preach about is megapixels. But what exactly does that mean?

A pixel is a tiny dot of color that you see on your computer or phone display. A megapixel is 1 million (actually 1,048,576 to be technically correct)  of those dots. So ‘24 megapixels’ so about 24 million dots of color

You may hear that more megapixels equal better quality photos, but this isn’t entirely true.

The sensor has more to do with image quality than the resolution does, but it does play a small part.

In short don’t get caught up about more buying a camera with more megapixels, unless you’re planning on printing your images on billboards.

Instead just use this guide to the best travel cameras to find out exactly what is the best choice you can afford.

One thing to consider when looking at the best travel camera is whether or not you can change the lens.

The reason this is important is that it gives you more choices down the road if you decide you want to get into different styles of photography.

A compact travel camera is most likely a fixed lens, meaning that whatever zoom range it comes with you can’t change.

A camera that you can change the lens on will let you upgrade to wide-angle lenses, a zoom lens, better maximum aperture options for low light performance, etc.

In general, if you can afford a mirrorless camera or DSLR, it’s worth buying.

A camera that allows you to change the manual settings gives you complete control over things like aperture, ISO and shutter speed.

This opens up a whole new world of creativity, and in our opinion, you shouldn’t consider a camera that doesn’t have this feature.

Luckily every recommendation on this list allows you to control those settings, even the GoPro HERO camera below!

It’s 2024 – make sure you get a camera that can shoot 4K video!

This provides much higher resolution when shooting video, and even if you don’t have a 4K monitor at home, you can always take that clip and watch it in high definition 1080p, or even crop into your footage.

Just beware that 4K video chews up your battery life, so make sure you have some spare ones!

Unless you plan on always being in perfect weather when you travel, it’s a good idea to get a camera that is either waterproof, or has good weather sealing.

Unfortunately you often have to compromise on a waterproof camera or a quality travel camera (unless you buy a GoPro), so we don’t recommend buying a camera that is fully waterproof.

Instead just make sure it has decent sealing, or look at buying an underwater housing if you want to get into underwater photography.

How far you can zoom in on a subject is very important when trying to decide the best travel camera.

If you buy a fixed lens camera, make sure it has a long zoom range, like a Canon Powershot or the Sony RX100vii.

Or if you buy a mirrorless camera or DSLR, you don’t have to worry about this as you can always upgrade later.

No matter how steady you think you are, you will almost always have a small amount of camera shake when taking handheld photos.

If you’re shooting at fast shutter speeds, this isn’t a problem. But if you’re photographing in low light, you can end up with motion blur.

Look out for cameras that have inbuilt image stabilization to counter this.

A DSLR ( digital single lens reflex ) works by having a mirror inside the camera. When you are looking through the viewfinder the mirror is down, covering the sensor, and you are looking at a reflected scene.

When you push the shutter the mirror flips up mechanically, allowing the image to be exposed onto the sensor, and then onto your SD card. All these moving parts take up room, hence why DSLRs are larger in size.

With mirrorless cameras, there are no moving parts inside. The image comes through the lens and directly onto the sensor.

There is an electronic viewfinder,  meaning you are seeing a digital copy of what you’re pointing the camera at, rather than a live view.

So without a mirror constantly flipping, the camera can be made a lot smaller. That’s why mirrorless cameras can be half the size of a DSLR.

When mirrorless cameras first came out the quality wasn’t that great. Now they are just about on par with DSLRs, and the portability means that they are the best cameras for travel photography!

In case you’re not sure what we mean, this article goes into a bit more information, but in short, we recommend getting a mirrorless camera.

The 3 most popular cameras that pros use are the Canon 5Div, the Nikon D850 and the Sony A7Riv.

For general travel videos, the kind of stuff you would publish on YouTube, we recommend the Sony RX100vii. If you’re looking to create more cinematic videos, the A6600 is the best compact travel camera for videos.

If you need the best small camera for travel, you should buy the Canon SX740HS. Compact, high quality and affordable, this little beast is a fantastic travel camera.

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• Best Camera
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• Best Budget
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Notable Mentions

Recent updates, all reviews, the 6 best travel cameras - spring 2024 reviews.

A good camera can be an indispensable travel companion, letting you capture your adventures abroad to share with friends and family. For many, the best option for traveling will be the camera you've already got in your pocket—your smartphone. If you want to step up your photography game, however, there are plenty of great cameras out there that won't take up too much space in your luggage. While it can be hard to narrow them down, it's important to consider things like portability, battery life, build quality, your own ergonomic preferences, and, of course, your budget.

We've bought over 100 cameras, and below, you'll find the best cameras for travel photography that we've tested in our lab. If you're specifically looking for a point-and-shoot camera, check out the best compact cameras for travel  instead. Or, if you're interested in capturing beautiful landscapes on your travels, the  best cameras for landscape photography might also be of interest. Travel vloggers can also look at our top vlogging picks .

Best Camera For Travel

The OM SYSTEM OM-5 is one of the best travel cameras you can get. As part of the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system, it offers a good combination of portability, ruggedness, and image quality. Though it isn't as heavy-duty as higher-end models like the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II or the older Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III , it has a more compact body that makes it better for travel. Plus, it's compatible with a wide selection of portable MFT lenses that will keep the overall size of your kit down.

Beyond its size, the camera feels well-built, with weather-sealing for added peace of mind in adverse weather conditions. It also has an excellent five-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system, which can reduce camera shake in travel vlogs or help you shoot at slower shutter speeds without a tripod. Unfortunately, it doesn't have the longest battery life, so you might have to buy a spare battery for long days on the go, but if you're looking for something small and mighty, this is an excellent travel camera for the price. If you want to save even more money, the older Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is nearly identical and can be found for less if you buy used, though it uses an older processor and lacks some extra features like 'Live ND' mode.

See our review

Best Full Frame Camera For Travel

If image quality is your top priority, the Sony α7C II is one of the best cameras for travel photography you can buy. It's one of the few full-frame cameras on the market that can boast such a compact size. While it's still the largest option on this list, and full-frame lenses are typically larger, it's impressive how compact Sony made this camera while including features like IBIS and a fully articulated screen.

However, the real benefit here is a high-resolution full-frame sensor with plenty of dynamic range and great noise handling for excellent results in trickier lighting conditions. On top of that, the camera has a fantastic battery life and a sturdy, weather-sealed body. That said, its ergonomics leave a little to be desired, particularly when shooting through its small viewfinder. If you want to save a bit of money, check out the original  Sony α7C . The new model is more well-rounded, with better video features and a higher-resolution sensor, but the original is still excellent and costs less.

Best Mid-Range Camera For Travel

If you can do without IBIS and want something a bit more affordable, the Fujifilm X-T30 II is a great mid-range option. It uses an APS-C sensor and has a portable, lightweight body that's ideal for traveling. While it lacks more premium features like weather-sealing and advanced video specs, it's still a relatively sturdy camera, and its dedicated exposure dials give you more hands-on control over exposure settings.

Aside from its portability, the  X-T30 II  uses a high-resolution crop sensor that delivers excellent image quality straight out of the camera. Film simulation profiles make the camera a blast to shoot with and allow you to change up the look of your photos without having to do any post-processing. On top of that, it has a decent autofocus system and a relatively long-lasting battery, making this an excellent travel camera for the price.

Best Budget Camera For Travel

If you're on a tighter budget, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a great choice that offers a lot of value. Like the higher-end OM SYSTEM OM-5 above, it uses a Four Thirds sensor, making for a remarkably portable camera kit with plenty of lightweight and affordable lens options. It's also a great choice for beginners, thanks to simple controls and easy-to-use creative shooting modes.

This is one of the few budget cameras to feature IBIS, so it's a good choice if you also like to shoot vlogs or videos on the side. IBIS is also helpful in low light, letting you shoot at slower shutter speeds without a tripod. However, this is still an entry-level model, so it doesn't have the greatest build quality. Its autofocus system can also be sluggish with faster subjects. If you'd prefer a camera with a more reliable autofocus system, the Canon EOS R50 is an amazing alternative and is even a bit cheaper. However, its lens options are more limited, and it's less portable overall.

Best Point-And-Shoot Camera For Travel

A premium point-and-shoot is the way to go if you need something compact but more capable than your smartphone camera. The Sony RX100 VII has been going strong for several iterations, and for good reason. This latest model uses a stacked 1-inch sensor, so image quality is very solid for its class. It's also one of the few cameras that's actually pocketable, so you can bring it with you wherever your travels take you, and its built-in lens has a fairly long zoom range that's great for travel snapshots of everything from landscapes to far-away subjects.

Be aware that compact cameras like this have a limited battery life, though you can always bring a spare battery or a portable battery pack to charge it on the go. The RICOH GR III is a great alternative if you want something more minimalist. It doesn't have a viewfinder, and its fixed focal length lens is less versatile than the zoom lens on the Sony. However, it has a larger APS-C sensor that delivers excellent image quality and is better suited to low-light situations. On the other hand, if you're looking for something cheaper, you can still find older generations of the RX100 on eBay and other used camera retailers.

Best Vlogging Camera For Travel

If you prefer to vlog about your travels rather than photograph them, try the Sony ZV-1. Like the  Sony RX100 VII above, it uses a 1-inch type sensor, performing similarly when it comes to image quality and autofocus, but it has a different design, with no viewfinder and a shorter zoom range. On the flip side, it also has a fully articulated screen that makes it easy to monitor yourself while vlogging, as well as a better built-in mic, complete with a detachable windscreen to cut down on wind noise while recording.

If you prefer a wider-angle field of view, consider getting the newer Sony ZV-1 II , which has a new wider-angle lens that's a good fit for walk-and-talk vlogs. It performs similarly otherwise, but Sony also removed optical stabilization from its lens, and it's a bit pricier, so the original ZV-1 is a better deal overall for most travel vloggers and one of the best video cameras for travel if you need something compact.

• Fujifilm X100V: The Fujifilm X100V is a large-sensor point-and-shoot camera. It isn't nearly as portable as the Sony RX100 VII and its fixed focal length isn't as versatile as the Sony camera's zoom lens. However, it's still relatively compact, and its larger sensor captures higher-quality images if that's a priority. Just be aware that stock shortages have made it difficult to find, and the manufacturer has since replaced it with the Fujifilm X100VI. See our review
• Nikon Z f: The Nikon Z f is an excellent full-frame option for travel, particularly if you like vintage-style cameras. It has a retro-inspired and relatively portable design but isn't as compact as the Sony α7C II. See our review
• Sony ZV-E1: The Sony ZV-E1 is a full-frame camera that's even more compact than the Sony α7C II. It's a great choice for high-quality travel videos, with a sensor optimized for low light. However, it lacks a viewfinder and is generally less versatile for photographers and hybrid shooters. See our review

May 08, 2024: We reviewed the cameras included in the article, including their price and availability, to ensure the article is up to date and adequately meets user needs.

Apr 10, 2024: We've replaced the Sony α7C with the Sony α7C II because it's more widely available and offers some advantages for video work. We also removed the Sony ZV-1 from the Notable Mentions, making it the 'Best Vlogging Camera For Travel.' Finally, we added the Nikon Z f to the Notable Mentions.

Mar 13, 2024: We've removed the 'Best Action Camera For Travel' since we've temporarily paused buying and testing action cameras.

Feb 15, 2024: Minor tweaks to text to ensure article is relevant to the current state of the market.

Jan 19, 2024: Replaced the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III with the OM SYSTEM OM-5 in the top spot, because it has better availability and performs very similarly.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the top travel cameras for most people, according to their needs. We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).

If you'd like to choose for yourself, here's the list of all of our camera reviews, ranked by their suitability for travel photography. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.

What Is the Best Prime Lens for Travel Photography?

Travel photography is a staple genre of the craft and one that most photographers try at some point. However, with such a broad scope and the many other genres that it encompasses, it can be hard to keep your kit bag light. So, what's the best prime lens?

There is, of course, no correct answer, only opinions. Zoom lenses are particularly popular as walkaround, do-it-all options, but if you prefer primes or you need faster glass, a prime lens might be your only option. You then have the difficult task of working out which focal length best suits your needs.

The nifty-fifty has always been a favorite of photographers from a range of genres, but for some (myself included), it's something of a half measure. What many travel photographers opt for instead is a wider prime and in this video, TKNORTH discusses his new favorite, the Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art . That is particularly wide and fast, which lends itself to versatility, with wider shots on the menu, but also close-ups of subjects with a narrow depth of field and good subject separation from the background.

I have used a 24mm f/1.4 before and though I didn't expect to enjoy it as I gravitate towards far longer primes, I had to concede that it wasn't short of creative applications. For me, the success of a prime that wide is its widest aperture being so wide; had it have been an f/2.8, I would have wholly disagreed with the sentiment of this video.

What prime lens do you reach for when it comes to travel photography and why? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

If you love travel and photography, consider checking out our Photographing the World Series with Elia Locardi where we go to some of the most beautiful locations in the world and teach the process of creating world class landscape images.  Save 15% by using "ARTICLE" at checkout.

Robert K Baggs is a professional portrait and commercial photographer, educator, and consultant from England. Robert has a First-Class degree in Philosophy and a Master's by Research. In 2015 Robert's work on plagiarism in photography was published as part of several universities' photography degree syllabuses.

I find 24mm way to wide. To be honest 35mm will be bit more use I think if it comes to general purpose ....you can always pan for landscape....and it of course depends what camera you shoot....you can also crop when your camera delivers enough megapixels .

I'm going to agree. For me, a Fuji X-T3 shooter, my Viltrox 23mm f/1.4 (Full Frame 34.5mm Equivalent) is the perfect focal length for travel photography. Its versatile enough for everything that doesn't require a telephoto. If I was still shooting with Sony, I'd definitely get the Sigma 24mm.

Depends on camera and style. For crop sensor I use 24/50 combination, for full frame it’s 35/85.

No way, a 600mm F/4 is the one

I wonder for the various cute birds, has anyone found a way to convince them to volunteer for some portrait photos with a much shorter focal length, in return for compensation?

For example food, toys, or electronics?

A 24mm lens on crop body works well, but why the heck does it need to be f/1.4? This lens is nearly on par with Canon's 24-105 f/4 in terms of size and weight. Ok, travel preferences will vary. The Canon 24mm f/2.8 is a nice pancake lens, making the entire setup look like a toy and less obvious.

Low light, subject separation.

You describe special cases, not general usage. Traveling requires flexibility.

Flexibility in what exactly? If you limited to take one lens only I dont think the pancake lens will do the best job. 24/2.8 yet on a aps-c is pretty much like smartphone photos... Only the quality on pixel level is better

Give me a nifty -50. I’ll stitch in photoshop if it’s not wide enough.

I agree with other posts that for FF 35mm is the best. A touch wide but not distorting with the ability to stitch together frames.

Have not quite figured out the need for fast glass in the digital times, except for the bokeh and narrow DOF. In the film days fast glass allowed for a faster SS to handle the motion of clicking the shutter hand held! Why a travel lens at one focal point and fast glass today! When one travels you never know what you will see/come across, so a telephoto is the best to have. In the Sony world (since '14) you have several 2470, 70200 (f/4,2.8) the best is the FE 24-240mm F3.5-6.3 OSS (360 in APS-C mode) it is wide but has reach and is OSS where primes don't. How many cameras have IBIS so why use a prime without IS, you will also need sticks (extra for travel). After 8 years with most every Sony prime and telephoto lens I carry everyday in a teardrop bag a A7iii with the 24-240mm and the surprise the APS-C E 1018mm f/4 OSS (15-27mm) that is also 12-18mm in full frame (18mm if remove the light shield) that uses screw on filters and both lenses have the Haida Filters adapter that I can use the Clear Night filter at night. Be truthful, how many travel with a backpack of gear or even one lens. As far a bokeh/dof it is where you set you focus and mode, and for clarity near and far you will set f/# 2 stops above wide open. Truth, Yes when I travel away from home I have all my primes and telephotos for planned captures BUT for the unplanned everyday drive/walkabout it is my Teardrop bag. Today it is SW that gets clarity and or bokeh in the end!!!!

I like the 40mm Zeiss Batis. It's got some macro capabilities, autofocus, lightweight and is fast enough at F2.

Articles like these always leave me wondering "Why?". The usual motivations for carrying a prime are improved clarity, less weight, faster lens. But, even a simple comparison of, say, the Sigma 24mm mentioned in the article versus, say, Canon's RF24-105mm challenges those benefits. The Sigma weighs a "svelte"1.46 pounds (665 grams), while the Canon weighs a "whopping" 1.54 pounds (700 grams). The Sigma spec's don't mention image stabilization, so presumably there is none. Compare that to the Canon's 8 stops of IS when mounted on a Canon R5, and the Sigma's f/1.4 doesn't seem so impressive compared to the Canon's f/4.. Improved clarity? The reviews of both lenses suggest that, if you can see the difference in clarity, you're probably looking fhrough a microscope. So, for 35 grams, would I ever really want to give up the reach of a 24-105 zoom? Not in my lifetime, where that extra reach has enabled me to capture images not possible with a 24 mm prime. .

for me in M43 land, I have the Oly 12-42, and I will always also carry the 20mm Pana. size and weight I don't even realize it's in the bag, 100g. speed is huge, 2.8 for the Oly zoom, vs 1.7 for the Pana prime.

no brainer really.

Define the type of travel photography?

If it's for weeks at a time in a far off land (like I do), then there is no single lens. You need to build a kit that is light enough to get on the small turbo prop planes that get you out in the sticks.

I like shooting with 2x identical FF bodies at the same time. Therefore I carry:

20/21 F2.8 for landscapes + light travel CF tripod.

35 F1.4 + 85 F1.8/F1.4 for 90% of the shots, one on each body.

70-200 F4 for the long end.

Everything has to be able to be carried on, especially batteries, so weight is the killer.

Well, I chose the Leica Q2 as best travel combination for me (enough MP to crop and wide enough), but before owning that I'd have chosen the Fuji X100F which I owned previously, so 35mm would do as well.

On the EOS R system I'd take the lightweight RF 35mm f1.8 IS macro lens, which is a hell of an allrounder lens, unfortunately not weather sealed. I guess you find similar options for nearly every camera system.

Unbelivable that nobody had mentioned 28mm...

Since I had an Old pancake Nikon 28mm, I've found it more organic and cinematographic than the 35mm, less wide than a 24mm, making composition less busy.

Your phone is the best choice for travel 👌

for M43, the 20mm 1.7 Panasonic is always in my bag. lens weighs 100g, and is 2.5" diameter, and 1" length.

absolutely tiny. sharpness is great, where it drops off is on the focus speed, it is slow to focus. any other aspect though, it shines.

I struggled with this recently on a trip to Hawaii. I love macro and wildlife photography, but this was a couples excursion, not exclusively a photography one. I settled for my Nikkor Z 40mm f/2 and a Nikkor Z 24-200mm f4-6.3.

For me the issue with just a prime is sometimes when I'm traveling with family, I want to crop close without dragging my kids/wife across the street or make them wait while I sneak to get close enough to wildlife. A variable zoom is great and compact - maybe not getting any professional wildlife shots, but sharp enough for myself.

I can never go without a prime though, because for human subjects I just can't go without the ability to customize my f stop at more usable levels to isolate depth of field and enhance sharpness by limiting ISO. Do I usually keep it at f/4ish? Sure. But do I take quite a few shots at 2 or 2.8? You bet.

While it is not a prime lens, it is a fixed lens. The Sony RX 10 IV is a 24 to 600 mm Zeiss lens that is by far the best camera and lens for travel photography.

35mm 1.4. You can sit directly across from the people you are traveling with and take an environmental portrait with the perfect amount of subject separation from the background and foreground. In a tight room, it may seem not wide enough but often, just put the camera against the wall and it usually works. It really captures the moment without the distortion of a 24mm. I find that 24mm really doesnt solve the problem of not having a wide enough lens in a small sapce. You will get distorted faces and the the atmosphereis will be altered by inaccurately representing the size of the room. Once in a while you do run into a large landmarks that just wont work with a 35mm but you can either bring a 16-35mm or a 24mm. Or simply use a smartphone because you probably don't want much or any background blur anyways in a shot wider than 35mm.

My SLR days go back to a Nikon FTn back in 1974. I traded it in for Hasselblad for weddings, but when I went back to 35mm, i chose the super small Pentax ME with a pancake 40 f/2.8. It had a belt clip. I took it everywhere! Best lens focal length ever. Fast forward nearly 50 years, Nikon released the Z 40mm f/2. On a Z5, it's hard to beat for a concealable travel camera. I ordered the 28 f2.8 for my Z50. 42mm equivalent with the crop. Hard to beat it now. Small and light. Crazy sharp since I'm not using the edges!

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17 Best Lenses for Travel Photography

• Jonathan Jacoby

Last updated:

• March 11, 2024
• See comments

Travel photography can be physically and technically demanding. Not only do you need to stay on the move and maintain a certain awareness of your surroundings while utilizing your knowledge of composition to your advantage to really bring your travel destinations to life. You also need the right gear to pull it off!

This includes carrying only the greatest and best lens for travel photography. But what makes or breaks a good travel photography lens, apart from superior image quality?

Ultimately, it’s a matter of taste. Still, there are some qualities that experts and pro photographers prefer over others.

For instance, travel photography often necessitates carrying as little gear as possible and working only with natural light. That’s why excellent low-light performance is a hallmark of any high-end lens for travel photography. And that’s just one example!

In this guide, I’ll explain many of the key features and attributes that make up a perfect travel lens. Further down below, I will also make some recommendations on the top lenses for travel photography available today for different camera systems.

The Meaning of Focal Length in Travel Photography

Focal length affects the effectiveness and usability of a camera lens for travel photography in just about every way. The most fundamental of these is ergonomics.

Too long of a lens will be unwieldy to use in tight spaces. At the same time, a wide angle lens might not offer the kind of secure grip and stability that you’re after.

But the tradeoffs between focal lengths go much deeper than that! Let’s take a look at how and why in the following segments.

An Intro to Crop Factors and Sensor Sizes

You’re probably already aware of the term “crop factor” in relation to different digital sensor sizes and their effects on images. But what exactly is the crop factor about? And how does a crop sensor camera render photographs differently from a full-frame camera?

The answer is actually pretty simple. Focal length being equal, a larger sensor will always render photography with a wider field of view, greater dynamic range, and a shallower minimum depth of field than a smaller sensor.

The most important takeaway from this is that a 50mm prime lens on a full frame body will produce a different (more “normal”) perspective than on APS-C format (where it will be more like a short telephoto lens).

The “crop factor” is just a factor by which you multiply your lens’ focal length to arrive at the focal length you would need to use on full frame to achieve the same perspective and FOV.

For APS-C, the factor lies at an easy-to-remember 1.5. Because a Micro 4/3 sensor is even smaller than that, its crop factor is 2.0. Hence, a 50mm lens behaves as a 100mm would on full-frame, and so on.

Here is our guide to understanding the difference between crop sensors and full frame cameras .

Pros and Cons of Different Sensor Formats

All of that can be both a boon or a burden depending on your needs.

Travel photographers who specialize in wildlife or event photography, for instance, might prefer the more “zoomed-in” look that smaller sensors provide. It allows them to carry a shorter lens to get the same level of reach that they would with a larger camera body.

This also cuts down on bulk, making for a more luggage-friendly setup.

On the other hand, working professionals who often have to dabble in landscape photography, street photography, or similar genres might find it difficult to achieve truly ultra-wide angle shots with the limited FOV that comes with a crop sensor.

Take a note to assess the benefits and disadvantages of this fact yourself to see which sensor size is best for your travel photography needs.

Using a Telephoto Lens for Travel Photography

Lenses with longer focal lengths are commonly used in travel photography, where portraiture , animal photography, and faraway subjects play a key role.

This mostly includes 80mm and above on full frame bodies and 50mm and above on APS-C.

Telephoto lenses are great for their ability to home in on distant details. They also flatten out and minimize certain optical features and distortions, which again makes them preferable for portraiture.

The downside is that dedicated telephoto lenses are large, bulky, and more difficult to carry than other kinds of lenses. Longer lenses are also much slower on average than shorter ones – finding that elusive 200mm f/2.8 is possible, but it’s going to cost you an arm and a leg, whereas 28mm f/2.8 options are plentiful and relatively cheap by comparison.

In practice, this means that using a telephoto lens for travel photography in low natural light can be very difficult without the help of a flash gun or other additional equipment.

The Value of a Wide Angle Lens

The complete opposite of longer camera lenses is a wide-angle design, generally of a focal length of 35mm or less on full-frame sensors.

These lenses can be produced in an extremely compact form factor which makes them handy and perfect for candid, fast-paced travel photography. They also cover a very wide field of view which can be useful for documenting landscapes and cityscapes and even for close-up portraits on location outdoors.

In the past, a moderately fast wide angle prime lens, in addition to a normal lens of about 50mm (full-frame FOV equivalent) and telephoto was an absolute must-have in every serious travel photographer’s camera bag.

Nowadays, there is an alternative that has seriously challenged that traditional paradigm.

The Convenience and Usefulness of Zoom Lenses for Travel Photography

The zoom lens is a fairly recent innovation, having only been in mass production since the 1960s and only having really supplanted the use of many different prime lenses since the beginning of the century.

The reason why the market eventually swung in favor of zoom lenses is self-explanatory. They combine the fields of view and perspectives of multiple lenses into one, saving a lot of space from any travel photographer’s camera bag.

However, there is also an equally good reason why this shift has taken so long.

First of all, zoom lenses that cover a very wide focal length spectrum (sometimes called a superzoom lens) are optically very hard to design. This is because the more a lens is capable of zooming, the more artifacts, distortions, and other optical flaws creep in, which have to be corrected.

The most straightforward way of implementing such corrections is by the inclusion of more specialized glass elements. Oftentimes especially nowadays, these elements will be specially coated, cut in an aspherical fashion, and made with rare earth-based materials.

Optically, this can bring amazing results. However, it dramatically increases bulk and cost. It gets even worse when a superzoom design has to be both optically stable and provide a fast aperture.

Therefore, the classic choice has always been between the cheap and small do-it-all zoom that optically pales in comparison to even bargain bin prime lenses, or alternatively the jack-of-all-trades professional superzoom that drains both the muscles and the wallet.

Thankfully, the advancement of modern optical science and technology has allowed for many zooms to be practical enough to serve as frontline lenses for working travel photographers, and I included some of the best of these in today’s roundup below!

Choosing the Best Camera Lens for Travel Photography is a Personal Matter

Before we dive right into the specifics of what makes certain lenses a better choice for travel photography than others, I would like to reiterate the value of personal preference.

Simply put, nobody can tell you what the “best lens” of any kind really is in objective terms. Travel photography simply covers too broad of a scope, with way too many disciplines and skill sets to focus on.

Maybe you mostly shoot landscapes on your travel adventures. In that case, super-fast apertures and lightning-fast autofocus probably won’t interest you.

However, the opposite is true should your needs and workload overlap more with those of classic photojournalism .

Some may say that all personal preference aside, optical quality, or the balance between optical quality and price, should be the main concern when choosing a travel lens.

That is a valid point, of course. The problem is that throughout the history of photography, what constitutes “good” optics has changed a lot!

You might not want your favorite, go-to travel lenses to be the sharpest in the whole world, and that’s okay. You might not need a super-compact pancake prime. In fact, I know plenty of photographers who purposely tend to go for larger, bulkier lenses because they prefer those kinds of ergonomics.

In the end, I am just a guy with a camera like anybody. So take my advice with a grain of salt and try to apply it to your own needs and requirements first before acting on it!

Top Wide Angle Prime Lenses for Travel Photography

To kick off this round-up, I am going to take a look at some of the finest wide angle prime travel lenses by lens mount and camera system. No matter where your brand loyalties lie, there is going to be a top-ranking pick for you!

While wide angle primes are becoming a less common sight, they still serve an important purpose for the discerning travel photographer.

They capture a wide field of view and do so while being many times more compact and lightweight than their wide zoom lens counterparts.

Often, their maximum aperture is also much faster than that of comparable zooms, which makes them the only serious option for outdoor photography in low light.

Sony Zeiss Distagon T* FE 35mm f/1.4

With a mouthful of a name like that flaunting none other than Zeiss’ magic fingers involved in its design, it’s no wonder that the Sony Zeiss Distagon T* FE 35mm f/1.4 is a top-flight performer.

Thanks to excellent sharpness, wonderful bokeh rendition at larger apertures, class-leading low-light performance, and very few if any real optical flaws, this is a universally appreciated and desirable lens considered one of the best primes in the Sony FE lineup.

The main downsides of this lens are that it is quite bulky, heavy, and expensive.

The more compact Sony Zeiss Sonnar T* FE 35mm f/2.8 is a similar though much more portable lens at two stops slower of a maximum aperture and can often be had for half the price of its bigger brother.

Sony Zeiss Sonnar T* E 24mm f/1.8

Just as with Sony’s flagship FE full frame lenses, the cream of the crop of its E-series APS-C lineup is also designed in collaboration with Carl Zeiss.

The optical characteristics of this 24mm Sonnar-type lens are very similar to the 35mm-focal length variant I mentioned above. It features an extremely close minimum focusing distance of only 18cm while incorporating all the optical goodies of its full frame brethren like ED and aspherical glass and fully internal focusing.

However, the fast aperture combined with a much wider focal length (equivalent to the FOV that a 35mm lens gives on full frame) makes this the better choice for an APS-C camera.

If you really want to maximize the carry-anywhere factor and aren’t opposed to going wider than 24mm on a crop sensor, then take a look at the Sony E 20mm f/2.8 .

A truly fast pancake ultra-wide angle lens like this is rare, and Sony’s example is even relatively affordable! No wonder it’s quickly becoming a darling among travel and street photography pros worldwide.

Nikon 28mm f/1.4E ED

One of the shining jewels of the swansong era of Nikon’s legendary F-mount lens lineup, the 28mm f/1.4E ED is a revamp of the similar 28mm f/1.4D from the 1990s.

Like its predecessor, it’s an optically stunning and physically massive wide angle lens suitable for travel photography and documentary genres in every lighting condition.

Its super-sized maximum aperture has also made it popular among portraitists who don’t favor the traditionally more common choice of a short telephoto lens, preferring to get up close and personal with their subjects.

Those who would prefer to pack light should instead look at the Nikon AF-S 24mm f/1.8G ED . Smaller, much easier to carry, just a smidge wider, and just two-thirds of a stop slower, it’s an excellent alternative, particularly for beginning photographers who don’t want to invest too much into a relatively niche wide angle prime travel lens right away.

Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S

The Nikon Z mount is the youngest among the mainline mirrorless camera lens lineups today, and as such it is understandable that the Japanese giant chose to focus on quality over quantity instead of playing catch-up with its competition.

What that mindset has created is a fine lineup of a few outright excellent wide angle prime lenses for Z mount. The most lauded of them all is the Nikon Z 20mm 1/1.8 S , an expensive but optically stunning fast prime with extremely snappy autofocus capabilities and a focal length that is very usable on both full frame and crop sensor bodies.

For street photography aficionados who prefer something a bit more incognito, I recommend the Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 . It’s neither as ultra-wide nor as hyperfast as its bigger brother, but it excels in cramming a ton of good glass into a minuscule package that you can keep on your camera all day long.

Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM

With a fast aperture and a perfect middle-of-the-road focal length that is perfectly suited to crop sensor as well as full frame cameras, the Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM is designed as the flagship wide angle prime lens of the EF DSLR line.

It succeeds in this role thanks to excellent sharpness, low light capability, and real class-leading build quality and ergonomics that rival the best that Nikon and Sony can offer.

Like other superfast wide angles, it is a bit on the larger side. Those who would like to achieve a similar FOV with a lot less metal sticking out of their camera should take a look at the EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM .

A real pancake, it’s only two stops slower and features similar optical characteristics, making it one of the most useful Canon lenses in its focal range.

Top Normal Primes for Travel Photographers

Unlike wide-angles, whose optical formulas need to be quite complex to maintain distortion-free high image quality, a normal prime is one of the most ancient and simplest formulas to produce.

This makes normal primes many things – cheap, plentiful, fast, exceedingly sharp, and easy to handle. I’m of the opinion that any travel photographer should own a little “nifty fifty” as the simplest kind of walkabout lens.

Not only is it fun to use, but a fixed 50mm (full frame equivalent) is also a hugely versatile lens, perhaps one of the most versatile you can spend your money on!

Nikon AF-S 50mm f1/.8G

Descended from a long line of similar f/1.8 “nifty fifties”, the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G is not just one of the stalwart brand’s best. It is also their cheapest.

For about 50% more, you can invest in the similar AF-S 50mm f/1.4G . However, I would only recommend the move if you have the money to spare and you really need the extra light that the wider aperture gives you.

The basic 1.8 model is just about excellent in terms of optics and deserves its title as one of Nikon’s most popular lenses ever!

Fujifilm XF 35mm f/2R WR

The Fujifilm X System is chock-full of amazing prime lenses, and the XF 35mm f/2R WR is one of the best examples of that fact. Because the X System is APS-C-only, a 35mm lens is a much better choice for a walkabout normal prime than a 50mm.

This particular lens excels because it ticks every imaginable box at a more than reasonable price point. It’s small, light, and exceptionally well-made, with snappy controls and quick, silent autofocus.

What’s more, it’s plenty fast for its focal length, making it a good choice for portraiture and moderate low-light photography, too! As a nice bonus, this lens also features full weather sealing for use on any of the pro-grade Fujifilm X System bodies.

Sony FE 50mm f/1.8

Though it’s not as tiny as some alternatives, Sony’s 50mm f/1.8 more than makes up for that fact with its fast aperture, excellent sharpness, and low price.

There is little to fault with this lens, optically or otherwise. Despite its entry-level nature, it feels just as nice in the hands as any of the brand’s more upscale models, making it the perfect gateway into the Sony mirrorless system.

Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM

When the Canon EOS R mirrorless camera system came out, it made a big splash in the world of photography.

Much of that had to do with the inherent innovation and high performance of the new design, but unfortunately, Canon R lenses and cameras also acquired a reputation for being prohibitively expensive.

To fix this problem and allow more young photographers to switch from existing DSLRs to the new R lineup, Canon devised a classic, cheap nifty fifty in the form of the RF 50mm f/1.8 STM .

There’s nothing more to say about the lens other than that it worked on every level that Canon was hoping for. It’s sharp, it’s fast, it’s genuinely affordable, and it does everything it’s meant to do while looking good, being reasonably well-built, and having fun. Bravo!

The Top Telephoto Primes for Travel Photography

As with wide angle lenses, the advantages of telephoto primes over a zoom lens are mainly that they are capable of the same (or superior) image quality at a lower cost and weight as well as at a smaller size.

This makes them particularly relevant to the modern travel photographer who might only require the telephoto end for a few occasional portraits or other specialist shots, not for the bulk of their work.

Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN C

Available for both Micro Four Thirds, Sony E, and Fuji X Mounts, this telephoto lens by Sigma stands out as one of their recent best.

Its excellent sharpness, wide aperture, and sturdy construction are impressive on their own. But what really sets the bar high with this lens is how affordably Sigma manages to market it while making it available for multiple different camera systems, no less!

Yes, there are some higher-quality options with slightly faster apertures of f/1.2. But for the vast majority of photographers who need a reliable, (somewhat) pocketable, and optically solid telephoto lens for travel, this is it.

Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S

One of the more affordable recent offerings for Z-mount, the Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S is a mid-size telephoto prime with a fast aperture that’s perfect for portraiture on the move.

Its autofocus system lags a bit behind that of its more expensive siblings, but for anything short of very demanding use in sports and action photography, it should suffice.

Simply put, this is a no-nonsense portrait telephoto option for anyone working with the Nikon Z mount in APS-C format or full frame.

Sigma DG HSM Art 50mm f/1.4

Available for multiple lens mounts, including Nikon’s F mount, Canon’s EF, and Sony’s E and A mounts, the Sigma DG HSM Art 50mm f/1.4 is a benchmark for modern crop-sensor telephotos.

It’s a complex optical design with a whopping 13 elements in 8 groups, giving it an incredibly balanced optical profile nearly entirely devoid of aberrations or distortions.

The main thing that the Sigma DG HSM Art 50mm f/1.4 sacrifices in favor of these admirable qualities is price – that might sound a bit counterintuitive for a 3rd party lens like this, but those are the times we live in!

Sigma has since expanded on the high-end performance of this 50mm with a whole family of similar “Art” lenses, many of which are also great choices for travel photography.

The Top Zoom Lenses for Travel Photography

With all that I have said about fixed focal length camera lenses so far, there is no denying that the real deal in convenience lies with zooms.

Whether just to cover the tricky wide end to save on glass or to replace an entire camera bag all at once, a well-made zoom lens with an appropriate zoom range for your needs can very well be one of the best lenses for travel photography, period.

Nikon AF-S FX 24-120mm f/4G ED VR

The modern successor to the original 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6D from the 1990s aka “the Streetsweeper”, this jewel carries on the mantle of one of Nikon’s most versatile walkabout zooms.

Now equipped with built in image stabilization (Vibration Reduction or VR in Nikon lingo) and a constant maximum aperture, the 24-120mm is niftier than ever. Optical performance remains above average to excellent as before, depending on which part of the zoom range is most important to you.

Note that this isn’t meant to be a benchmark lens in terms of optics but rather a usable do-it-all that combines its impressive zoom range with enough character and extra features to stay on your camera all day.

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM

This is Canon’s spin on the “Streetsweeper” lens concept. Compared to the Nikon alternative, this lens is built tougher, larger, and heavier, with a zoom range that tops out a little bit short.

On the other hand, optical quality is a lot more uniform here, with fewer distortions, especially towards the ultra-wide end.

Thanks to the same f/4 constant aperture, image stabilization, and silent, worry-free autofocus as its rivals, the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM manages to be a serious contender in this tightly packed field of travel camera lenses.

Fujinon XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR

Equivalent to a 24-120mm on full frame, the Fujinon XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR is a perfect showcase of how to adapt a formula like the above to an APS-C lens.

Small, lightweight, yet loaded with all the goodies you would expect from larger pro lenses, such as a constant max aperture, it’s among Fujifilm’s most usable do-it-all lenses for travel.

Unlike some of the faster constant-aperture zooms by Fujifilm, this one is also fully stabilized – another bonus that many travel photographers will surely appreciate!

Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM

Travel-friendly ultra-wide zoom lenses are difficult to design and manufacture, but Sigma managed to wow the industry with its fast 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM .

It’s not the most affordable lens by a stretch, but you can’t fault its quality whatsoever.

The big names like Nikon and Canon have their own in-house 14-24mm designs, but the Sigma manages to be fairly competitive in terms of optics while costing a notch less than any of them.

That, and its easily hand-holdable form factor combine to make it probably the single best ultra-wide travel camera lens at the moment.

Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS

Typically, travel lenses zoom within a range of somewhere between 3x and 6x to balance out complexity and optical stability with size and bulk. Nikon’s 24-120mm set the template with a 5x range that has been copied countless times by now.

With one of their latest FE-mount gems, Sony chose to double that and make a 10x superzoom lens that can replace an entire camera bag on its own.

Sure, it hasn’t got a fixed maximum aperture – that would involve ludicrous amounts of overengineering, given the number of focal lengths this thing covers.

If you can make that one concession though, Sony’s FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS is one of the greatest excuses to pack fewer lenses (or maybe just one, in fact) on your next trip.

I hope you enjoyed this take on the best travel-ready camera lenses available in 2024!

The selection included in this guide should contain a good fit for a whole lot of different shooting styles, camera systems, and experience levels.

However, remember that each and every photographer is different. I suggest to just trying out one lens at a time until you find one that fits you , even if what you end up with is not on this list.

Bon voyage, and don’t forget to enjoy your travels!

See more in

• Lenses Travel

• Perrin Adams
• May 8, 2024

• Daniel Wright
• May 6, 2024

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The wait is over! 🎉 Our 'Great Big Photography World' podcast has officially relaunched, and you can now listen to our first episode featuring the incredibly talented Sean Critchfield.

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The best lenses for video in 2024

Don't miss our guide to the best lenses for video, with budget-friendly options for vloggers, youtubers and serious content creators..

In the review

Welcome to our 2024 guide to the best lenses for video. If you’re getting to grips with vlogging, starting a YouTube channel or embarking on a journey into filmmaking, something that’s just as important as having the right camera (if not more so) is having the right lenses. However, everyone is different, and even within single mount systems, there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ lens that’ll suit every video creator. That’s where we come in.

At AP, we take videography as seriously as we do photography, and whenever we review a lens we look at its capability for video as well as stills. While there’s a lot of crossover between the two categories – both videographers and photographers generally want excellent sharpness, after all – there are a number of features that are particularly important to video shooters. These include silent autofocus, minimal focus breathing and built-in optical stabilisation, among other things. For a full rundown, you can scroll to the bottom of this page where we’ve put together a quick explainer.

We’ve included zooms and primes for a range of different lens mounts, and have made sure to offer suggestions for a range of budgets. If you’re still searching for the right camera for your video making, check out our guide to the  best cameras for video and vlogging . We also have a practical guide to how to shoot video for YouTube with your camera , and if it’s sound you’re worried about, check out our run-down of the best-value audio accessories for video .

The best lenses for video: our quick list

Want to cut to the chase? Here’s a quick glance at the best video lenses featured in this article: 

• Canon RF-mount: Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM – buy now
• Nikon Z-mount: Nikkor Z 17-28mm f/2.8 – buy now
• Sony FE-mount: Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS – buy now
• Nikon Z-mount (DX):  Nikkor Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR – buy now
• Micro Four Thirds: Panasonic 10-25mm f1.7 Leica DG Vario-Summilux ASPH Lens – buy now
• Micro Four Thirds: Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f/4 IS Pro – buy now
• L-mount: Panasonic Lumix S 18mm F1.8 – buy now
• Sony E-mount: Sony E PZ 10-20mm F4 G – buy now
• Fujifilm X-mount: Fujinon XF 10-24mm F4 R OIS WR – buy now
• Multiple mounts: Samyang 85mm T1.5 VDSLR AS IF UMC II – buy now
• Sony FE, L-mount: Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art – buy now
• Fujifilm X-mount: Fujinon XF 18-120mm F4 LM PZ WR – buy now

Read on to learn more about the best video lenses to buy, and don’t forget to check out our guide to the best cameras for video, vlogging and videography .

Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM

Amateur Photographer verdict

• Tremendous value for money
• Knurled focus ring offers secure grip
• Super compact
• No AF/MF switch
• Focusing isn’t completely silent

At a glance:

• Mount:  Canon RF
• Focal length: 50mm
• Lens construction: six elements in five groups
• Max aperture: f/1.8
• Closest focusing distance: 30cm
• Price: $159 / £199

Canon’s ‘ nifty fifty ’ lenses have been highly acclaimed for years by photographers using the brand’s DSLRs to shoot stills and video, but with Canon’s introducing a full-frame mirrorless range with cameras like the EOS R6 and EOS RP , a new version was needed. The result is the RF 50mm f/1.8 STM – a lens that balances price, size and a fast maximum aperture beautifully to produce a must-own optic for Canon video shooters.

Measuring 69.2×40.5mm and tipping the scales at only 160g , this lens will balance nicely with cameras like the EOS R6 when paired with a gimbal like the Ronin-SC. The 50mm will give a natural perspective close to that of the human eye and the lens features Canon’s STM motor technology for fast autofocus that will be quiet and won’t pick up on your audio track.

The RF 50mm enables videographers to capture frame-filling footage of smaller subjects thanks to a closest focusing distance of 30cm and features Canon’s Super Spectra Coating to enhance quality. The 50mm lens is also great for talking head video.

Read our Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM Review

Nikkor Z 17-28mm f/2.8

• Good price and balance for an f/2.8 lens
• Image quality excellent throughout zoom
• No built-in stabilisation
• Paucity of on-body physical controls

At a glance: 

• Mount:  Nikon Z
• Focal length: 17-28mm
• Lens construction: 13 elements in 11 groups
• Max aperture: f/2.8
• Closest focusing distance: 19-26cm
• Price: $1,196 / £1,079

The Nikon Z system now includes plenty of cameras with impressive video spec, from the mighty Nikon Z9 and its 8K 30p recording capabilities, to the affordable and vlogger-friendly Nikon Z30 . There’s no shortage of excellent Z-mount lenses to choose from when it comes to crafting a video setup, but we’ve opted for the well-balanced Nikkor Z 17-28mm f/2.8. More affordable than you’d expect a zoom with a constant f/2.8 aperture to be, the lens is weather-sealed with a robust construction . There aren’t many on-body controls to speak of, though the focus ring can be assigned to control a preferred function when autofocus is engaged.

While the Z 17-28mm doesn’t have Nikon’s premium S-Line designation, we found it to be a very respectable performer nonetheless. Sharpness is consistent throughout the aperture range as well as the whole of the zoom. Focusing is very quick and practically silent . Flare is controlled-for very nicely too, so you shouldn’t have too many problems shooting into the light. It’s a lens that mostly just works, and keeps out of the user’s way.

The only real issue that might give some video shooters pause is the lack of built-in image stabilisation . If you’re using a full-frame Nikon Z camera, this won’t be a problem as you’ll have the camera’s built-in IBIS. The APS-C models, including the vlogger-focused Z30, lack stabilisation, meaning you’ll likely need to invest in a gimbal.

Read our Nikon Nikkor Z 17-28mm f/2.8 review .

Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS

• Exceptional quality throughout zoom range
• Optical stabilisation
• Lightweight build
• Zoom ring is a little small

At a glance: 

• Mount:  Sony FE
• Focal length: 24-105mm
• Lens construction: 17 elements in 14 groups
• Max aperture: f/4
• Closest focusing distance: 38cm
• Price: $1,268 / £999

This stalwart, do-everything zoom for full-frame Sony cameras has been around since 2017, and it’s still an excellent choice for Sony shooters looking to capture video. The  broad, flexible zoom range running all the way from a wide 24mm to a telephoto 105mm means you’re covered for the vast majority of shooting situations you’re likely to encounter, while the  constant f/4 aperture  means you’re never forced to stop down when zooming in. It’s also impressively lightweight , at 663g, is much more affordable than professional zooms, and has optical stabilisation .

All very well, but how does it perform? Well, we first published our review of this lens in 2017, and have revisited it a few times since then – and we’ve always come away impressed. Optically, this lens is still an absolute stunner, delivering excellent sharpness all the way through its zoom range, from corner to corner . The kind of compromise you normally have to put up with when picking a 24-105mm instead of, say, a 24-70mm just isn’t evident here, and it’s very hard to imagine a Sony user who wouldn’t be happy with the performance of this lens.

The autofocus is fast, reliable and – crucially – silent , so you won’t have your video’s sound compromised by whirring motors. Switch to manual focus and you’ll also find an excellent experience, with a smoothly rotating focus-by-wire ring. Both this and the zoom ring rotate smoothly and have rubberised coverings that grip well. One thing worth being aware of for video users is that the zoom ring is on the small side , which can make it a bit trickier to pull off smooth zoom transitions while recording. This isn’t a ruinous issue – and practice definitely makes perfect. It’s just something to be aware of.

Proof, if proof were needed, that great design has real staying power, this seven-year-old zoom lens represents fantastic value for Sony FE-mount users. For an all-in-one lens to capture great video content in a range of situations, it’s hard to think of a better option than this.

Read our full Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS review .

Nikon Nikkor Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR

• Optimal feature-set for vlogging
• Built-in stabilisation
• Power zoom and silent autofocus
• No on-body control buttons
• Mount:  Nikon Z (DX)
• Focal length: 18-42mm (equivalent)
• Lens construction: 12 elements in 11 groups
• Max aperture: f/3.5-5.6
• Closest focusing distance: 19cm
• Price: $356 / £329

If you’re using one of Nikon’s APS-C mirrorless cameras for video, like in particular the vlogger-friendly Nikon Z30, then it’s a good idea to get hold of some of the few DX-format lenses the firm has available. This is because they are more affordable than their full-frame counterparts, and designed with the smaller sensor format in mind. The Nikkor Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR is touted specifically as the vlogging lens for DX-format Z-mount cameras, and as such, should be a priority to pick up if you’re shooting video on a Z30 , Z50 or a Z fc .

In testing, we appreciated the lightweight design of this lens, which makes it excellent for run-and-gun vlogging. The power zoom design means it stays balanced when you zoom in and out – useful when the lens is mounted on a gimbal. We found the focusing to be consistently fast, only starting to struggle when light levels got seriously low, and quiet enough that it’s not realistically going to produce any noise that will be caught on video. The focus transitions while recording video are pleasingly smooth, and the built-in stabilisation is effective. This is a lens that’s clearly been designed to try and make vlogging as easy as possible, and it succeeds pretty well.

Read our Nikon Nikkor Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR lens review .

Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Summilux 10-25mm F1.7 ASPH.

• Optimised for video
• Weather sealing
• Fixed f/1.7 aperture
• On the pricey side
• Extends while zooming
• Mount:  Micro Four Thirds
• Focal length: 20-50mm (equivalent)
• Lens construction: 17 elements in 12 groups
• Max aperture: f/1.7
• Closest focusing distance: 15cm (AF), 12cm (MF)
• Price: $1,497 / £1,699

An enduringly popular Micro Four Thirds lens, the Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Summilux 10-25mm F1.7 ASPH covers a useful equivalent focal range of 20-50mm equivalent. With a constant aperture of f/1.7, it’s a highly capable lens in low light, and Panasonic has also stuffed it with plenty of features to appeal specifically to video shooters.

These include a mechanism to minimise focus breathing – changes in focal length that occur when an object is brought sharply into focus. It also has stepless aperture control, and a micro-step drive system in the aperture control that keeps exposure adjustments smooth when the brightness of a scene changes. Focusing is silent, too, thanks to the inner focus drive system.

Even though it’s on the pricey side, this has proved a favourite lens among Micro Four Thirds vloggers. So much so that Panasonic later introduced something of a spiritual successor, the Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Summilux 25-50mm f/1.7 , for those who want a tighter focal length.

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f/4 IS Pro

• Excellent sharpness throughout zoom range
• Very effective optical stabilisation
• Well constructed but not too heavy
• Expensive for a superzoom (but worth it in our opinion)
• Stabilisation needs to be paired with specific cameras for full efficacy
• Focal length: 24-200mm (equivalent)
• Lens construction: 17 elements in 11 groups
• Closest focusing distance: 15cm
• Price: $1000 / £900

This superzoom for Micro Four Thirds cameras has a claim to being one of the best lenses of its type ever made. Over the generous equivalent focal range of 24-200mm, it maintains sharpness impressively well , making it genuinely useful right the way through that range. If you’re a run-and-gun vlogger or filmmaker who wants to be able to shoot at different perspectives without constantly swapping lenses, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f/4 IS Pro is something of a godsend. Plus, at a little over 500g , it’s not so prohibitively heavy that you won’t be able to carry around for a day-long shoot (one of the benefits of Micro Four Thirds).

The optical stabilisation on this lens also merits particular praise – it’s amazingly effective, especially when paired with Olympus or OM System cameras that allow for Sync IS to further boost the system up to 7.5 stops of compensation. It makes the far end of the telephoto zoom much more useable hand-held than it would be otherwise, further strengthening this lens as a proposition for vloggers.

We gave this lens the full five stars in our review. It’s undeniably an expensive proposition for a superzoom, but it stands head and shoulders above similar lenses for other systems.

Read our Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f/4 IS Pro review .

Panasonic Lumix S 18mm F1.8

• Compact and lightweight
• Excellent optical quality
• No lens breathing
• Some comatic aberrations at f/1.8
• Mount:  L-mount
• Focal length: 18mm
• Lens construction: 13 elements in 12 groups
• Closest focusing distance: 18cm
• Price: $897 / £749

Another wide-angle, fast-aperture prime , but this time it’s for the L-mount, and is engineered to work well with Panasonic’s Lumix S full-frame mirrorless cameras. The Panasonic Lumix S 18mm F1.8 is something of a unique prospect in the L-mount family . Similar alternatives exist, particularly from Sigma, but they tend to be much more expensive and considerably heavier, like the superb but weighty Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM | A .

With a focal length of 18mm and an aperture of f/1.8, the Lumix S lens is well-suited for general day-to-day vlogging. It delivers plenty of sharpness where you want it, and silky bokeh in the defocused areas of an image. It has also been designed with videographers in mind and there are plenty of clever, useful features to this effect. For instance, the lens includes a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing , meaning it can automatically rack focus smoothly, without appearing to zoom in or out.

It feels like a natural companion for the lighter members of the Lumix S family: the Lumix S5 or Lumix S5 II . But it’ll pair well with any member of the range, and deliver a fast and silent video-shooting experience.

Read our Panasonic Lumix S 18mm F1.8 review .

Sony E PZ 10-20mm F4 G

• In-depth zoom control
• Well balanced
• Intuitive manual focusing
• No stabilisation
• Cheaper Sony options are available
• Mount:  Sony E (APS-C)
• Focal length: 10-20mm
• Lens construction: 11 elements in 8 groups
• Closest focusing distance: 13-17cm
• Price: $648 / £699

Sony’s ‘PZ’ designation means lenses that have a powered zoom design, rather than a mechanical one. This makes any lens with this feature extra well-suited to video as it enables a raft of features that are useful for videographers. The Sony E PZ 10-20mm F4 G can therefore hold focus on a subject when zooming , with the composition remaining appropriately centred. The zooming and focusing action is all entirely internal , meaning the lens stays balanced, making it handy for shooting on a gimbal.

Focus breathing is also minimal, which means that there will be little to no change in angle of view from the minimum focus distance up to the infinity focus setting. The minimum focus distance also stays pretty much the same, from 13cm at the wide end to 17cm at the tele end. A zoom lever on the side of the lens enables  proportional action , which allows zoom speed and intensity during video to be fine-tuned very precisely.

In our testing, we found this lens to optically perform very well throughout its zoom and aperture ranges. It’s hugely intuitive to use, thanks to extra features like the Linear Response MF , a manual focus control that makes it easy to make precise adjustments to the focusing. The only real strike against the lens is its lack of built-in stabilisation – it’ll pair best with Sony bodies that have stabilisation built in, like the  Alpha 6500  and  Alpha 6600 .

Read our full Sony E PZ 10-20mm F4 G review

Fujinon XF 10-24mm F4 R OIS WR

• Hardy, moisture-resistant build
• Effective optical stabilisation
• Lightweight
• Some low-frequency clicking of diaphragm blades (under certain conditions)
• On the pricier side
• Mounts:  Fujifilm X
• Focal length:  10-24mm
• Lens construction: 14 elements in 10 groups
• Closest focusing distance: 24cm
• Price: $999 / £949

Fujifilm users who want to shoot video have a narrower lens selection than those who use other brands. However, the XF 10-24mm F4 R OIS WR is a lens that comes recommended by Fujifilm as one of the best X-mount lenses for video, and it considerably impressed us in our review. It’s durable and weather-resistant , which is useful for on-location shoots, and its sharpness impresses throughout the zoom range.

The manual focusing experience – an important consideration for video – is first-rate on the XF 10-24mm F4 R OIS WR. The ring is finely grooved, with a fluid feel, and you can take precise manual focus control by rolling your thumb over it at any time.

A lightweight lens, the XF 10-24mm F4 R OIS WR provides an equivalent focal length of 15-36mm when mounted to one of the X-series APS-C mirrorless cameras. It’s a highly credible all-purpose lens for video, and any Fujifilm user with an inclination towards video should think about giving it some space in their kit bag.

Read our Fujinon XF 10-24mm F4 R OIS WR review

Samyang 85mm T1.5 VDSLR  AS IF UMC II

• Loads of mount options
• Geared focus ring
• Dust-proof design
• Manual focus only
• No optical stabilisation
• Mounts: Nikon F, Canon EF, Pentax K, Sony E, Sony A, Fujifilm X, Micro Four Thirds
• Focal length: 85mm
• Lens construction: 9 elements in 7 groups
• Max aperture: T/1.5
• Closest focusing distance: 110cm
• Price: $269 / £279

A purpose-built cine lens from less than £300? You’d better believe it and if you are starting to take video seriously, it could well be worth taking a good look at this Samyang optic. Available for Nikon F, Canon EF, Pentax K, Sony E, Sony A, Fujifilm X and Micro Four Thirds mounts , the Samyang 85mm is a manual focus optic that features 9 elements in 7 groups including an aspherical element.

The lens features an aperture (A) ring , although on a cine lens the aperture is prefixed with T instead (for example T/1.5) and there’s also a wide geared focusing ring , that will allow videographers to pair this up with a follow focus system, enabling precise adjustments to the focus setting.

Sporting a dust-proof design, the lens also offers Samyang’s Ultra Multi Coating (UMC) technology for better image quality and to provide protection from flare. Other features include an 8-bladed aperture to make the most of the bokeh created from that fast T/1.5 maximum aperture and a 72mm filter thread.

Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art

• Sophisticated optical path
• De-clicked aperture ring
• Bright maximum aperture
• Fixed focal length will limit real-world video use
• No focus distance marks on the barrel
• Mounts:  L-mount, Sony FE
• Lens construction:  15 elements in 11 groups
• Max aperture: f/1.4
• Closest focusing distance: 85cm
• Price: $1,199 / £999

The exceptional optical performance of Sigma’s Art series has been well-known for a while now, but what you may not be aware of is that the Art series shares a lot in common with the construction of Sigma’s Cine lenses , making them perfect for filming video without the additional price-tag.

The 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art gives videographers a lens that can capture tighter scenes and the maximum f/1.4 aperture will create an incredibly shallow depth-of-field that’ll bring a cinematic feel and a higher production value to your movies.

The 85mm f/1.4 Art lens packs in no less than five Special Low Dispersion (SLD) elements to deliver that optical quality but there’s far more to this lens than the glass because the lens also features a de-clicked aperture ring , enabling users to change aperture and balance exposure levels during a live take.

The AF system employs a stepping motor, which is optimised for both phase and contrast detection. Despite these pro features, the 85mm isn’t a lump and weighs in at 630g while offering a familiar filter thread of 77mm , which allows users to add ND filters to further control exposure levels.

Boasting dust and splash resistance, the 85mm f/1.4 Art also features an oil-repellent coating and the build features a mix of aluminium and TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) to keep the construction strong, yet light .

Read our Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art Review

Fujinon XF 18-120mm F4 LM PZ WR

• Very flexible zoom range
• Weather-resistant
• Noisy operation
• Not the sharpest
• Focal length: 27-183mm (equivalent)
• Lens construction: 15 elements in 12 groups
• Closest focusing distance: 60cm
• Price: $899 / £899

An impressively wide-ranging all-in-one zoom, the Fujinon XF 18-120mm F4 LM PZ WR is a great idea on paper, a one-size-fits-all lens to take everywhere . How does it measure up in the real world? Well, in our review we were overall quite impressed. The lens is not without its problems, but it does deliver something unique in the X-mount range  and will suit vloggers and video shooters who want to be prepared for all eventualities.

Weighing under 500g , the XF 18-120mm lens slots into a kit bag without causing much fuss. The aforementioned zoom range is hugely usefu l; some video users might wish for a little more width at the short end, but it’s still a commendable achievement. One unfortunate thing to note for video use is that the zoom mechanism is quite noisy , as is the autofocus . In most cases, it won’t be an issue, but if you’re shooting somewhere with very little ambient noise, odds are it’ll be picked up.

This power zoom lens isn’t the sharpest, but it does a good job in the optimal settings – zoom in a little and stop down to around f/5.6.

Read our full Fujinon XF 18-120mm F4 LM PZ WR review

What makes a good lens for video?

A big, wide-focus ring

There’ll be times when you’re filling scenes with a shallow depth-of-field when you’ll want to take more control over the focusing system and switch to manual focus (MF).

In these scenarios, you want to have as much physical control over the lens as possible.

Thus the lenses to avoid are ones that have impossibly thin focus rings that are very unergonomic and hard to get precise control over.

Instead, look out for optics with a big, wide focus ring that you can get a good grip of.

Better still, focus rings with a pronounced rubberised texture will further aid your hold and prevent your digits from slipping off the focus ring.

A de-clicked aperture ring

An aperture control ring enables users to change the aperture setting via the ring on the lens, rather than needing to fiddle about with the camera body’s dials or menus.

This is important because when you are capturing footage, you’ll be using a set shutter speed, such as 1/100sec.

So, in order to balance an exposure level, you’ll want to adjust the aperture instead (although you can also use ISO and ND filters to balance exposure too).

Some aperture rings are ‘clicked’, which means you feel a physical click or step as you turn the ring.

It’s more advantageous for a video-friendly lens to have a de-clicked aperture ring, that will turn freely without resistance, allowing you to balance the exposure more easily.

Stabilisation

Shaky footage is no good to anybody and while there are other options to stabilise footage – namely in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) within a camera body or the use of a gimbal so the videographer can move around while keeping the camera steady – using a lens with Image Stabilisation technology adds to your ability to keep things steady.

Most IS-enabled lenses offer the user the ability to switch the stabilisation off and on, giving the user even more control.

For the ultimate in stabilisation, pairing an IS lens with a camera body with IBIS will extend the compensation limits.

Lightweight dimensions

Big, heavy lenses are OK for video as long as you are happy to lock off the camera on a tripod, but this usually delivers static and uneventful, uninspiring footage.

If you are going to capture motion by using the camera on a gimbal, or other device, then you want to reduce the load on the gimbal motors… this means using a lightweight and compact lens.

Pancake optics are ideal – for example, Sony’s 16mm f/2.8 not only measures just 62×22.5mm but also tips the scales at a mere 67g, making it a gimbal-friendly choice for videographers on a budget.

Advanced coating

When shooting video, you’ll more than likely want to shoot a lot of ‘contre-jour’ (literally shooting ‘against the day’) shots when you shoot into the light to capture backlit subjects.

These high-contrast lighting situations can flummox inferior lenses and produce huge amounts of flare and specular highlights.

When looking for a lens that you can use for stills and video, make sure it has a decent level of coating to protect against these issues.

A fast maximum aperture

For those beautiful, shallow-depth-of-field shots that add a heavy layer of cinematic style to your footage, you’ll need a lens that offers a fast maximum aperture.

Regular kit lenses often have a variable aperture so at best, you may be able to use f/3.5, but if you zoom in, you’re more likely to have a maximum aperture of f/5.6, which won’t give you the shallow depth-of-field you’re looking for.

Instead, look for lenses that have a maximum aperture of f/2.8 or faster.

A standard to mid-telephoto focal length

One common mistake many photographers make when moving into video for the first time is to select a lens that’s too wide.

Of course, there will be times when a wider angle view will suit the scene, but going too wide all the time can leave subjects in the frame looking too small and lost.

A standard or mid-telephoto focal length, such as 50mm, is a great place to start as this focal length is similar to the natural perspective of the human eye.

A fast motor

Picking a lens with the right motor system is crucial when selecting a video-friendly optic.

Sluggish motor systems will not only struggle to keep up with a moving subject in the frame, but they will also create ‘lens hum’, which can be picked up on your microphone and ruin your audio.

By contrast, a lens with a fast, modern motor system will be quiet, fast and accurate… thus leading to more usable footage.

Familiar filter thread size

ND filters can prove useful when shooting videos as well as stills.

With your shutter speed locked in at 1/50sec or 1/100sec, it can be easy to overexpose a frame, particularly if you wish to employ a fast aperture like f/1.4 to create a shallow depth-of-field.

A video-friendly lens with a familiar filter thread size (such as 67mm, 72mm or 77mm) will mean you probably already have a ND filter (whether it be a screw-on or via a filter holder) that you can use to balance your exposure level.

Text by Matty Graham, with contributions from Jon Stapley.

Further reading :

• How to record great quality videos with your camera
• Find the best cameras for video, vlogging and YouTube
• Best video editing software, including free tools
• Best external camera screens

Follow AP on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , YouTube and TikTok .

Matty is a professional photographer and videographer based in Lincolnshire and previously edited a number of photography magazines. Specialising in landscape imagery and video in the automotive sector, Matty’s work can be seen at mattygraham.com.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Best Camera Lenses for Travel Photography

Last updated: April 7, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 71 Comments

As a professional travel photographer, I’m often asked about camera gear, and in particular, folks contact me to ask me what the best camera lens for travel photography is. Often people have bought a camera with an interchangeable lens, like a mirrorless or DSLR camera, and are looking to upgrade their kit to meet their needs.

I’ve already written a guide to the best cameras for travel photography , but as that only covers camera and not lenses, I thought it would make sense to follow up with a regularly updated guide to the best camera lenses  – specifically for travel photography purposes. After all, a camera is not much good without a lens!

Of course, this guide does assume you have a camera with interchangeable lenses, so that means a mirrorless camera or a DSLR camera . Within those two groups though there are myriad camera and lens manufacturers. And for the most part, lenses made for one camera system won’t work on another system.

So for this post, I’ve first put together a general overview of what to look for when picking a travel lens, which will give you some pointers in terms of features to consider. That way no matter what brand and kind of system, you’ll know what to look for when shopping for a camera lens.

I’ve then provided specific recommendations for the more popular camera systems out there, including Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, and Sony. Even if your particular manufacturer or camera mount isn’t mentioned, you should be able to get a good idea from this post of what to look for in a travel lens, which specifications matter, and an idea of price.

Speaking of price, as well as a guide to the best lens for travel photography for each camera brand, I’ve also suggested a couple of options for the best budget travel lens for each camera system. I know that lenses are expensive, and not everyone has a huge budget to spend! Let’s get started.

What to think about when picking a lens for travel photography

Picking a lens to travel with is a bit different to picking a lens for other situations. Not only will you be concerned with image quality, but also size and weight.

Whilst it would be wonderful to have a wide range of expensive lenses to take with us on all our trips, the reality of travel is that there is only so much we can take with us, and when you’re out and about all day sightseeing, you probably don’t want to be carrying too much.

So for travel photography, it’s better to try and focus on getting a smaller number of lenses that work well in a wide variety of situations. That way you are likely to actually take them with you and use them.

Of course, there are always going to be compromises – it’s hard to find a lens that does everything well, doesn’t cost too much, and is lightweight! But for travel photography, I think there are some good travel lens options out there.

You have a few options for lens types. My suggestion would be to invest in two lenses – a walkaround lens and a fast prime. An f/1.8 50mm would be the ideal.

Some manufacturers sell a travel kit, like this bundle from Canon , which can be a great value way to get some good lenses.

If you only want to invest in one lens because you don’t see yourself changing lens often, or carrying more than one lens, then you will want a good walkaround lens, and that’s what this guide will be focusing on.

What is a walkaround lens you ask? Well, it’s a lens that “does everything”. It covers a good range of focal lengths, meaning you can get wide angle shots as well as zoom in on further away objects. It’s basically a one size fits all lens for your travel photography needs.

You will often find that if you invest in a camera that it will come with a lens that will suffice as a walkaround lens. These will work fine but tend not to be the top quality lenses.

If you are more serious about photography and your budget allows, I’d recommend that you buy your preferred camera “body only”, and then invest in a nicer walkaround lens, such as the ones I recommend, rather than the standard kit lenses. Don’t be surprised if the lens is more expensive than the camera either – good lenses are expensive, and a worthy investment.

Price considerations – how much to spend on a camera lens for travel photography.

Speaking of money, I’ve done my best to provide a range of lenses across various price points. More expensive lenses tend to be more capable, but can also be heavier, so aren’t always the best solution for travel photography.

For the budget-conscious reading this, I’m also providing my suggested best budget travel lens for each category. I appreciate that not everyone has a big budget for a new lens, so I want to provide some good value options too.

If none of the lenses in this post fit your budget, my advice would be to either stick with the kit lens that comes with your camera, or to check out the second hand lens market on either Amazon on eBay . For more on buying second hand camera equipment, see my guide to buying used camera equipment .

Now, before we dive into individual travel lens recommendations, let’s take a look at some of the key terminology and other considerations you need to be aware of when looking for a lens for travel photography.

Inside a lens, there’s a hole that lets the light through to the camera’s sensor. This hole is referred to as an aperture. An aperture can change in size, with a bigger aperture letting more light in, and a smaller aperture letting less light in.

An aperture can be thought of as the pupil of your eye. When it’s bright outside, it is smaller so less light gets in. When you’re in a darker environment, perhaps at night, it opens really wide to let more light in.

The important number for lens apertures is how big the hole goes, which will dictate how well the lens will perform in low light situations. A wider aperture also allows for greater control over depth of field. See my guide to depth of field for more on that.

When you look at the specifications for a lens, it will always have the widest aperture listed as one of the key specifications. It will be a number, something like 2.8, 4.0 or 5.6. It may also be written as f/2.8, which is the formal way of denoting aperture. The smaller the number, the wider the hole.

Some lenses, and in particular the walkaround lenses we are going to be looking at, will have what is known as a variable maximum aperture. This means that the aperture will actually change as you zoom in and out, or change focal length. This is because as the lens barrel gets longer, the maximum aperture get smaller.

So for example, you might see a lens with an aperture of f3.5-5.6. This means that at the wide angle, the aperture is f/3.5, but when you zoom in, the aperture will drop, down to f/5.6 when you are fully zoomed in.

For travel photography, as with most photography, the wider the aperture the better – more light getting in means better low-light performance, making the lens more versatile for a range of photography situations. This is particularly useful for situations like taking photos of the stars , or shooting the northern lights .

The trade-off is that wider aperture lenses tend to be bigger, heavier, and more expensive. This will be considered in the lens selection.

Focal Length

The focal length of a lens is directly related to how much magnification it provides. It’s a number that’s measured in millimetres (mm), with the general rule being that the higher the number in millimetres, the more magnification you get, and the smaller the number in mm, the less magnification you get.

If you’ve previously used a compact camera (aka point-and-shoot), you’ll be used to this being described in terms of optical zoom – for example, a camera might have 10x optical zoom. That means that the difference in magnification between the most zoomed out setting and the most zoomed in setting is 10x.

In focal length terms, each doubling of the focal length results in a doubling of the magnification. So a 100mm lens will essentially make everything twice as big as a 50mm lens.

Unfortunately, matters get a bit confusing after this, because focal lengths have a different effect on different cameras. This is because camera’s have different sensor sizes, which affects the focal length, in what is known as a crop factor.

To take the example of the Canon DSLR camera systems. There are two main types of cameras available, the APS-C size cameras such as the consumer Rebel line, and the full frame size sensors in more professional cameras like the Canon 6D or 5D line.

Some of Canon’s lenses will work on both of these camera systems, but they will give different focal lengths. On the full frame cameras, the focal length will be as expected. On the APS-C sensor, there is a “crop factor” of 1.6, because the sensor is smaller. So a 100mm lens on an APS-C sized sensor will give the same result in terms of the image as you would be able to achieve with a 160mm lens on a full frame camera.

Thankfully, lens manufacturers all use the same focal length standard, so when buying lenses for your particular system, all you need to know is the crop factor. You can then multiply this by the focal length to get the equivalent focal length.

Don’t worry if this isn’t quite clear, for the lenses I recommend I will list both the focal length and the equivalent focal length where relevant. Equivalent focal length is what you need to really worry about, as it will let you compare lenses more effectively.

For travel photography, you want a lens that goes from fairly wide (16mm – 30mm) on the wide end, through to fairly zoomed in (70mm – 150mm) on the narrow end. This will give you good flexibility, letting you shoot wide scenes such as buildings on city streets, through to zooming in on the details. A good benchmark lens is a 24-70 f/2.8, which is generally known as the walkaround lens of choice for professional photographers.

There are some walkaround lenses which offer much greater focal lengths, well past 200mm, including some of the recommendations in this guide. Just be aware that there are always trade-offs to consider, and whilst these can offer tremendous versatility, it’s often at the expense of weight and image quality, and in particular, image sharpness, at the longer end of zoom range (beyond 200mm usually).

I’m not saying not to invest in these lenses, just to be aware that there’s no such thing as a perfect lens for all situations!

Filter Thread

When you buy a lens, it’s always a good idea to pick up a UV filter  to protect the front. You may also want a polarising filter  (read about polarising filters here ), or a neutral density filter  (see my guide to neutral density filters here ).

You’ll notice that these filters come in different sizes, and the filter thread size on the lens, measured in millimetres, tells you what that size is. It’s basically just a measurement of the diameter of the lens, which is the end you put the filter on. Ok, that was an easy one.

Image Stabilisation

Camera lens manufactures have all kinds of fun terms they use for image stabilisation. These include IS (Canon), OIS (Panasonic), VR (Nikon), OS (Sigma), VC (Tamron) – the list goes on .

Whilst the names and underlying technology vary, the aim is the same – to compensate for any movement introduced by the person holding the lens (that’s you), to help you shoot at lower shutter speeds without getting blurry photos.

As a general rule of thumb, the minimum shutter speed you can hand hold a lens for is the inverse of the focal length. So if you have a 200mm lens, you would not want to shoot at shutter speeds slower than 1/200th of a second. A 50mm lens would be 1/50th of a second.

Image stabilisation technologies exist to help you get shots at lower shutter speeds than that, and they are usually rated in terms of how many extra “stops” they give you to play with. A “stop” is photography dialog for a halving, or doubling, of the light.

So if you went from 1/100th of a second to 1/50th of a second shutter speed and didn’t change anything else, that would be 1 stop.

Modern image stabilisation technologies offer between 3 and 5 stops of stabilisation. To put that in practical terms, if you are shooting with a 200mm lens at 1/200th of a second, 3 stops would let you hand hold down to 1/25th of a second. 5 stops would let you hand hold and still get sharp images as slow as 1/6th of a second!

As you can see, image stabilisation can make a huge difference, and it is definitely worth thinking about when looking for a lens. Of course, as with everything, there are tradeoffs, and an image stabilized lens will often be more expensive and slightly heavier than an equivalent non-stabilized version.

Weight is a pretty key consideration when it comes to picking a travel lens, as the idea is that you’re going to be using the lens for travelling. I don’t know about you, but the less I have to carry the better, especially if I’m going to be on my feet all day. So definitely keep the weight of your purchase in mind.

As well as weight, you’re going to want to factor in the size of the camera lens. Portability can be an important factor for a travel photography lens, particularly if you’re travelling and prefer to pack carry-on only. So consider how big the lens is in physical terms when making a decision.

Mount Compatibility

When you attach a lens to a camera body, obviously it has to fit in place. It’s like a puzzle with two pieces – the lens has to be the right shape to fit into place and lock tightly.

In addition, because the camera needs to communicate with the lens to set things like aperture, focus and zoom, the electronic connections between the lens and the camera body need to line up and be compatible.

The system that is used is known as a lens mount. You basically “mount” the lens onto the camera. Most camera manufacturers have their own lens mount system or systems, so when you buy a lens, you need to make sure it is compatible with the mount type on your camera.

Many manufacturers have multiple lens mounts, depending on the type of camera. For example, Canon cameras can have an EF-S mount, an EF mount, an EF-M mount and an RF mount.

It is very important when buying a lens to ensure that it has a compatible lens mount for your camera. Note that some lenses will work with multiple lens mounts – for example, an EF lens will work on both an EF and an EF-S mount. However, an EF-S lens will only work with an EF-S lens mount, and not with an EF mount.

Usually the mount type is made clear in the name of the lens. For example, the Canon EF 16-35 f/4L IS is an “EF” lens, which you can see in the name of the lens. So this will work with an Canon EF or Canon EF-S camera body.

If you are buying a lens from a third party manufacturer such as Tamron or Sigma, be aware that they usually make multiple versions of each lens, with different mounts. So always make sure you buy the version that will fit your camera.

Well, that sums up some thoughts on the various factors, features and terminology you need to consider when looking to buy a travel lens.

Now, let’s dive into some specific recommendations across various camera systems to give you some idea of what’s available at different price points.

Note that these are primarily walkaround lenses that are suited for travel, rather than for a specific function like macro photography or astrophotography. If you are interested in the latter, see our guide to northern lights photography , which has some specific lens recommendations for night situations.

The Best Micro Four Thirds Lens for Travel Photography

Micro Four Thirds camera are a popular choice for photographers. These mirrorless systems are lightweight and portable, yet offer everything you would expect from a bigger SLR style camera, including full manual controls and great image quality.

There are a number of manufacturers, with the most popular being Panasonic and Olympus. We use and love our Panasonic GX8 which is a staple part of our travel photography gear .

Both of these manufacturers have their own proprietary lens stabilisation system that takes advantages of stabilisation technology in both the camera body and the lens. This means that whilst lenses will work across different micro four thirds cameras, to take full advantage of the stabilisation technology you need to match brands – so a Panasonic lens needs to go on a Panasonic camera body for the best results.

In terms of crop factors micro four thirds cameras have a 2x crop factor, so you need to double focal lengths to get the equivalent focal length.

1. Panasonic Lumix G Leica 8-18mm F2.8-4.0

With a 16-36mm equivalent focal length, this is the lens to get if you love shooting really wide. Personally, my wide angle lens is the lens I use the most, so this is what I’d go for on this camera system, even if it’s not quite as flexible across shooting situations as something with a greater focal range. It doesn’t have image stabilisation, but as the lens is so light that’s less of an issue, and image stabilisation on a wide-angle isn’t as critical.

Weight: 11.11 oz / 315 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here 

2. Panasonic Lumix G Leica DG 12-60mm Power O.I.S. F2.8-4.0

As a walkaround travel lens, it’s hard to argue with this 12-60mm lens from Panasonic, which offers a 24-120mm equivalent focal length and sharp results throughout that focal length, even shooting wide open. The aperture stops down a bit as you zoom in, but this is a lightweight lens that will do pretty much everything you could want, and includes image stabilization (Power O.I.S).

Weight: 11.29 oz / 320g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

3.  Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm f/2.8

My choices for the Olympus micro four thirds system are essentially their versions of the Panasonic lenses above. This is the wide angle, with a focal length equivalent of 12mm – 28mm.

With a fixed f/2.8 aperture this is a very fast lens at all focal lengths, although this does make it a little bit heavier.

It also comes with dust and weather sealing. It doesn’t have lens based image stabilisation, but the majority of Olympus MFT cameras have in-body stabilisation which makes up for this.  

Weight: 1.17lb / 543g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

4. Olympus M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-100 F4.0 IS PRO

With a focal length equivalent to 24-200, this is pretty much the perfect walk around length for travel photographers. It is water and dustproof, and features image stabilisation equivalent to an incredible 6.5 stops when used with a compatible Olympus camera.

That added focal length does add some weight and bulk though. If you’d prefer a lighter lens and a faster aperture at the expense of focal length, check out the cheaper  Olympus M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-40 F2.8  instead.

Weight: 1.23lb / 561g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Best Budget Micro Four Thirds Lens

1. panasonic lumix g vario 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 power o.i.s.

This is essentially a slower version of the Panasonic 12-60mm lens above, at half the price. It’s also significantly lighter than that lens. Impressively for a lens at this price point, it comes with image stabilisation as well as a splash and dust-proof body, making it ideal as a travel lens.

At a similar price point there’s also the slightly heavier  14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 lens from Panasonic, but whilst you gain a lot in focal length, you lose out on that weather resistance, so it’s up to you.

Weight : 7.41oz / 210g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

2. Olympus M.Zuiko ED 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II

Weight: 10 oz / 284g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

The Best Mirrorless Lens for Travel Photography for Sony Cameras

For the purposes of this guide, I’m going to be talking about Sony’s E-mount lenses, which work on their mirrorless camera systems including APS-C models like the a6600 as well as full frame mirrorless models like the a7 range.

Note that there are two types of E mount lenses, “FE” lenses, which will work on both full frame and APS-C sized Sony cameras, and non FE lenses which are designed for APS-C sizes sensors only. While you can use a non-FE lens on a full frame camera, it will reduce the image resolution and field of view to be equivalent to an APS-C sized sensor, so I’d advise against that.

There are also “G” series lenses, which are Sony’s more professional lenses – similar to Canon’s “L” series. These offer greater image quality and performance, usually with a higher price tag to match.

Some Sony cameras offer in-body image stabilisation, but ideally you’ll want it in the lens. Sony’s image stabilization technology is known as OSS (optical steady shot).

1. Sony 18-105mm f/4 OSS G

With an equivalent focal length of 27mm – 158mm, and a fixed aperture throughout that focal length, this lens is ideal for travel photography. It’s also a G series lens, which means it is higher quality lens compared to their standard, non G lenses. It’s primarily designed for Sony’s APC-C sensor cameras, so not really recommended for their full frame bodies, but it is very well priced.

Weight: 15.06oz / 427g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

2. Sony E 18-135 f/3.5-5.6 OSS

With an E mount lens for APS-C camera compatibility, this lens is firmly aimed at travel photographers wanting a great Sony walkaround lens at a price that won’t destroy the bank. With image stabilization and good performance across a good focal length, this lens is a great bargain if you’re looking for an easy upgrade from the kit lens.

3. Sony FE 24-70mm f/4 OSS

Covering the classic focal length of 24-70 on a full-frame camera (36-105mm on an APS-C), this is a relatively fast lens that offers excellent image quality and portability at a relatively affordable price point. There’s also an f/2.8 “G” version of this lens which is approximately twice as expensive and also heavier, but may be worth it if you need that extra stop of light.

Weight: 15.03oz / 426g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

4. Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5 – 6.3 OSS

Covering a truly staggering focal range of 24-240mm (36-360mm APS-C), this Sony FE lens is perhaps the ultimate walkaround lens for the Sony system. It may have a variable aperture, but given how well Sony’s cameras perform even at high ISO ratings, you probably won’t notice that too much.

If you want a lens that can shoot everything from far away wildlife to portraits to landscapes, this is a great choice at an excellent price point. Just be aware that it is heavier than the other options due to that extended focal length.

Weight: 1.72 lb / 780g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and A dorama here

5. Sony FE 16-35 f/4 OSS

If you’re after something wider, then this is the lens to go for, especially for full frame cameras (APS-C owners should instead consider the cheaper 10-18mm f/4 for wide angle work).

With a relatively fast fixed aperture, super-wide capabilities and even image stabilisation, this is the lens for landscape and architecture photographers to look at.

Weight: 1.14lb / 518g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here  

6. Sony 18-200 f/3.5-6.3 OSS

If you’re on Sony’s APS-C sensor system, then you might want to consider this lens instead of the 24-240mm lens above, as it offers a wider 27mm equivalent at the wide end. It’s also a relatively light lens given the focal range, making it a good choice for travel photographers trying to keep the weight down.

Weight: 1.16lb / 524g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Best Budget Mirrorless Lens for Sony

1. sony fe 28-70mm f3.5-5.6 oss lens.

Being an FE lens, this will work on both full frame and APS-C sized Sony bodies – on the latter it would offer an equivalent focal length of 38 – 105mm, which is useful for many situations except particularly wide work. A good value lens.

Weight: 10.41 oz / 295 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

2. Sony 55-210mm f4.5-6.3 OSS

If you’re looking for a bit more range, perhaps to compliment the kit lens that came with your Sony camera, this is one of the better priced telephoto zoom lenses from Sony that is also incredibly light for the focal range on offer.

Of course, it’s not the sharpest lens in the world, especially at the 200mm end (315mm equivalent), but it does feature image stabilisation and is a bargain to boot.

Weight: 12.16 oz / 345g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

The Best DSLR Lens for Travel Photography for Nikon Cameras

For the longest time, the two main choices for photographers looking for camera gear were Nikon and Canon. That has certainly changed, but these two manufacturers definitely account for the highest percentage of cameras sold today.

Because they’ve both been around for so long there are literally hundreds of lenses to choose from for each system, both made by the manufacturers themselves, and lenses made by third parties.

Sifting through these choices to find the perfect travel lens is definitely a challenge, but I’ve narrowed down the various options to some of the best options to help you make an informed decision.

1. Nikon 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G VR

An ideal walkaround lens at a good price point for Nikon full-frame users (known as FX in Nikon speak). This lens covers a very wide focal range with a reasonable fast aperture, and offers image stabilisation (Nikon calls it VR, for vibration reduction).

Owners of Nikon’s APS-C sized sensor camera bodies (DX format) should consider either the 18-300mm lens below, or the Tamron 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 , which will give a bit more flexibility on the wide end.

Weight: 1.76 lb / 800 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

2. Nikon 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G VR II

There’s also an 18-200 version which can be found marginally cheaper, but as it weighs the same I’d go with this one.

Weight: 1.21 lb / 550g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

3. Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8E VR

Nikon’s 24-70mm f/2.8 lens is one of the most popular lenses for photographers of all types, particularly on full frame bodies. Its fast aperture throughout the focal length makes it great for low light photography and portrait work, and the relatively wide angle makes it a great landscape lens.

It even has image stabilization! It is expensive and heavy (consider the Sigma equivalent too), but if it’s the only lens in your bag you might not mind so much.

Weight: 2.35lb / 1070g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

4. Nikon DX 16-80mm f/2.4-4E VR

This lens is only for crop sensors, but it offers an excellent range of focal lengths, a fast aperture range and it is known for producing very sharp images. It’s also very light, making it a great option for travel photography, and features image stabilisation at a reasonable price.

Weight : 16.93 oz / 480g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Best Budget DSLR Lens for Nikon

1. nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6 vr.

For a DX camera, this is an excellent Nikon lens that covers a wide focal range, has image stabilization, and produces sharp images. It’s very well priced for what you get, is relatively light, and will serve you well as a travel photography walk around lens.

Weight: 1.08lb / 490g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

2. Nikon 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G VR

FX format users on a tighter budget should definitely consider this lens, which offers reasonably fast performance and a good range of focal lengths in an affordable and lightweight package that also includes image stabilisation.

Weight:  1.02 lb / 465 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

The Best DSLR Lens for Travel Photography for Canon Cameras

Like Nikon, the Canon camera system has been around for a long time, and there’s an incredible selection of lenses to choose from, both directly from Canon, and from third party manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron. This huge amount of choice can be overwhelming, but I’m going to do my best to provide a few options to get you started.

Note that Canon has three main lens mount systems – EF, EF-S, and RF. The first two are for their DSLR cameras, the latter is for their new full frame mirrorless camera system. This is a new mount, launched in 2018. I mention it because there is a Canon adaptor meaning all EF and EF-S lenses will work on RF mount cameras.

EF lenses will fit on all Canon’s cameras (RF with an adaptor), whilst the EF-S lenses will only fit EF-S mount cameras (and RF cameras with the adaptor).

EF-S cameras are essentially all the consumer focused models such as the Rebel series. Canon has its own stabilisation system, which it calls IS (image stabilisation).

1. Canon EF 16-35 f/4L IS

This ultrawide Canon lens is incredibly sharp, and an excellent choice for landscape and architecture lovers. It’s our current go-to lens for these purposes in our travel photography bag.

Whilst the f/4 aperture isn’t too wide, this lens features image stabilisation technology that promises up to four stops of stabilisation, which makes this a great choice for low-light work. It’s also not too heavy. APS-C owners should consider the cheaper and significantly lighter 10-18mm IS instead .

Weight: 1.35 lb / 615 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

2. Canon EF 24-70 f/2.8L II

This is the walk around lens of choice for many full frame Canon professionals as it offers sharp performance and a fast fixed f/2.8 aperture across the frame. This lens is great for everything from portraits to landscapes, and is one of the most popular lenses amongst Canon shooters.

This lens is quite pricey and fairly heavy though, so do also consider the Sigma equivalent which is significantly cheaper and includes image stabilisation, which is notably absent from this Canon lens.

Weight : 1.77 lb / 805 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

3. Canon EF 24-105 f/4 L IS II

If the Canon 24-70 above is a bit pricey, or you’d prefer image stabilization and a slightly longer focal length, then the excellent EF 24-105 f/4 L is a great choice. Despite the longer focal length, it’s actually a slightly lighter option.

This lens will work with both full frame and crop sensor cameras, on the latter it will have an equivalent focal length of 38 –  168mm.

Weight: 1.75 lb / 795g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

4. Tamron 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di VC

There are lots of third party options for Canon, with Tamron being a popular choice for value oriented buyers. This Tamron covers an excellent focal range in a relatively lightweight, low-cost design.

This 28-300mm is a great walkaround lens choice covering a wide focal range, especially for full frame shooters who don’t want the weight or cost of Canon’s L series lenses.

Weight: 1.19 lb / 540 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here  

5.  Tamron 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 VC

Owners of APS-C Canon cameras should definitely consider this incredible Tamron lens, which offers a mind blowing focal length (29 – 640mm equivalent) on Canon’s crop sensor cameras. It also has image stabilisation and an aperture range which is not too bad considering that incredible zoom. It’s also very well priced, and less heavy than you might expect for the focal length.

If you’d prefer a first party lens walkaround lens for your Canon APS-C camera, another option is the Canon EF-S 18-200 f/3.5-6.3 IS , which is a tiny bit lighter, but loses a lot of that lovely focal length, and is also slightly more expensive.

Weight: 1.56 lb / 710 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Best Budget DSLR Lens for Canon Cameras

1. sigma 18-300 f/3.5-6.3 dc os.

If you’re looking for a lens that covers a very wide focal range, produces sharp images, and won’t break the bank, look no further than this excellent Sigma. This will only work on Canon’s APS-C range such as the Canon Rebel line, or Canon SL2, but it offers excellent performance, image stabilization and an incredible focal range (29mm – 480mm equivalent) in a well priced and lightweight package.

Weight: 1.28 lb / 584 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here  

2. Tokina 11-20mm f/2.8 PRO DX

Lovers of wide-angle photography should shortlist this Tokina lens for Canon’s EF-S camera mount. With a very wide f/2.8 aperture, and a superwide focal length, this lens is perfect for landscape photography, low-light photography, and even taking pictures of the stars . Well priced too!

Weight: 1.23 lb / 560 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

The Best Mirrorless Lens for Travel Photography for Canon Cameras

Canon also makes mirrorless cameras, which come in two mount types, EF-M and RF.

The EF-M mount launched in 2012, and is for Canon’s EOS M range of cameras. These mirrorless cameras feature an APS-C sized sensor, and are primarily aimed at consumers and prosumers.

The RF mount launched in 2018, and is Canon’s newest mount. This features on Canon’s full frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras, including the R5, R6, R7 and R10.

It’s worth noting that Canon produces an RF mount adaptor and an EF-M mount adaptor for both EF and EF-S lenses. This means you can use EF and EF-S lenses on the Canon EF-M mount cameras, as well as Canon RF mount cameras.

So if you have an EF-M or RF mount camera, you might still prefer to buy one of the previously mentioned EF lenses, as these have the widest compatibility, and will work across all Canon’s cameras.

That said, an EF-M lens will be smaller and lighter, whilst the RF lenses take full advantage of the wider size of the mount, meaning these lenses can offer wider apertures. RF and RF-S lenses also have additional control rings on the lens itself, which can make for fast on the fly settings adjustments.

Whilst there aren’t currently as many EF-M, RF or RF-S lenses on the market as there are EF and EF-S lenses, there are still plenty to choose from. Here are some options that should work well for travel photography, across a range of budgets.

1. Tamron 18-200 f/3.5-6.3 Di III VC

Given the focal range, the lens is relatively lightweight, and you get good performance for a reasonable price. Definitely one to consider if you’re looking for a native EF-M mount lens.

Weight:   1.55lb /  459g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

2. Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM

Weight:   4.6oz / 130 g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

3. Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM

Moving onto the RF lenses for Canon’s full frame mirrorless cameras, and the first in our list is this versatile 24-240mm option. This offers an excellent focal range for travel photography, making this a good choice as a walkaround lens. You get a fairly fast f/4 aperture at the wide end, although this does drop off to f/6.3 as you zoom in.

You also get Canon’s image stabilization and fast, silent autofocus system. It’s also relatively light and compact for a full frame lens with this range, and the price is good for what you get.

Weight:   1.65lb /  750g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

4. Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM

Naturally Canon also has a range of their premium “L” lenses available for the RF mount. The 24-105 f/4 is an excellent RF mount lens for travel photography, offering a useful focal range as well as a fixed f/4 aperture throughout the whole focal length.

You also get image stabilization, fast and silent autofocusing, in a relatively compact and lightweight lens.

Weight:   1.54lb /  700g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

5. Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM

If, like me, you love wide angle photography, then you are definitely going to want to check out Canon’s awesome 15-35mm wide angle lens for the RF mount. The RF mount has allowed Canon to go all the way to 15mm with their wide angle zoom, and you get a fast f/2.8 aperture through the focal length as well.

You also get image stabilization and fast and silent autofocusing. It’s not cheap by any stretch of the imagination, but performance is superb.

This lens is the part of what photographers refer to as the “holy trinity” of lenses that professional photographers aim to have in their kitbag. They are all expensive, but image quality and performance can’t be beaten. If you are looking for the rest of the “holy trinity” of RF lenses, Canon also has the Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM and the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM available for purchase.

Weight:   1.85lb /  840g Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

6. Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM

In 2022, Canon launched the first of their mirrorless APS-C sensor cameras with an R mount, the EOS R7 and the EOS R10. These cameras actually come with an RF mount, meaning they are compatible with RF lenses and EF & ES-S lenses. For RF and EF lenses, you do get a 1.6x crop factor.

Canon has also launched RF-S lenses. Despite the name, the RF-S mount is the same as the RF mount, the only difference is that these lenses are designed for the new cameras, meaning they are smaller and lighter as they don’t need to produce such a large image.

The lens we recommend you consider as a walk around lens is the RF-S 18-150mm. On a R7 or R10, this has an equivalent focal length of 28.8-240mm, which is ideal for most travel photography situations.

You also get built-in image stabilization, and the maximum aperture of f/3.5 is very good. It’s also remarkably light.

Weight:   10.9oz / 310g Check price on  B&H here and Adorama here

Further Reading

Well, that sums up my guide to the best travel lenses for travel photography! I hope you found it informative and useful in your quest to find the perfect travel lens for you. Before you head off, I want to share with you a few more resources that will help you on your photography journey.

• My guide to picking the best travel camera – after all, a lens isn’t much good without a great camera to pair it with! We also have guides to the best point and shoot cameras , the best mirrorless cameras , the best cameras for hiking and backpacking , the best action cameras , and the best DSLR cameras for travel photography .
• Photos need editing to get the best out of them. See our guide to the best photo editing software for our suggestions. If you’re looking for something to edit your photos on, see our guide to the best laptops for photo editing
• If you’re looking for something for someone else, see our guide to the best gifts for photographers for ideas
• My series of  Photography Tips , which I am always expanding and updating with posts like this one
• My always expanding series of  Photography Location Guides , to help you get the best shot in locations around the world.
• An overview of my  Travel Photography Gear , in case you wondered what a professional photographer has in his bag
• A  Beginners’ Guide to Improving your Travel Photos for those starting out in travel photography. We also have a guide to how to use a DSLR to help you if you are starting out with this type of camera system.
• Our reasons why you need a travel tripod

Looking to Improve Your Photography?

If you found this post helpful, and you want to improve your photography overall, you might want to check out my  online travel photography course .

Since launching the course in 2016, I’ve already helped over 2,000 students learn how to take better photos. The course covers pretty much everything you need to know, from the basics of how a camera works, through to composition, light, and photo editing.

It also covers more advanced topics, including astrophotography, long exposure photography, flash photography, and HDR photography.

You get feedback from me as you progress, access to webinars, interviews and videos, as well as exclusive membership of a Facebook group where you can get feedback on your work and take part in regular challenges.

It’s available for an amazing one-off price for lifetime access, and I think you should check it out. Which you can do by  clicking here .

And that’s it for my guide to picking the best camera lens for travel photography. I’ll be keeping this post updated as new lenses are released for the various systems, so you can always check back for advice if you need it. I’m also happy to answer your specific questions about picking a lens for your camera system – just pop them in the comments below and I’ll do my best to give my thoughts and advice!

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There are 71 comments on this post

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Vladielna says

4th October 2023 at 6:31 am

Hi Laurence,

Hope it’s not weird to get a comment on this post in 2023. I have a sony Alpha 6400 that I got earlier this year and I was wondering about the 55-210 e-mount lens you mentioned. My dad bought it for his 5N back in the day and I was hoping to use it for my camera however I have noticed that the AF is much worse on the 6400 than it is on the 5N where it will take multiple times to try and find the right focal length over the span of 3 seconds and yet still not be in focus I am not sure why that is and I was hoping you could provide some insight into this behaviour.

Thanks, Vladielena

Laurence Norah says

4th October 2023 at 8:10 am

Hi Vladielna

Of course, you are welcome to comment. I do keep our content up to date, so even if a post was originally published a while ago I do my best to keep to relevant 🙂

On to your question. So the 6400 should have a pretty good focus system, but it’s hard to diagnose the issue without knowing the focus mode in use and what scenario you are taking photos of. Some focus situations are more challenging for a camera to work in, such as lower light scenes or scenes where there isn’t much to focus on (like a plain surface). If you could let me know what you are struggling to photograph and focus mode you are using I can do my best to offer some input!

20th August 2022 at 11:50 pm

I’ve been looking to get into photography for a bit. Pretty settled on getting the 6D Mark II. Any recommendations for lens? I do a good bit of hiking, some traveling through the city and museums, some international travel, and a good bit of stuff outside. Any help is appreciated!

22nd August 2022 at 5:59 pm

Sure thing. So a lot will obviously depend on your budget. A good walk around lens with the 6D might be the Canon 24-105 f/4 L, which covers a useful focal range. If you want more range and are on more of a budget, Tamron’s 28-300 is a good option, although it isn’t quite as wide. Personally I prefer a wide angle lens, but it’s a personal preference. You can always shoot more frames and stitch them together of course.

If you wanted to give me an idea of budget, I’m happy to give some more ideas. Just one thing to bear in mind is that there’s always some sort of trade off when it comes to gear, be it maximum aperture, weight, cost or reach. No-one has come up with the perfect lens that does everything yet!

26th August 2022 at 11:28 pm

Hi Laurence! Thanks for the response! I think the 24-105 is purchasable with the body. For budget I’d probably like to stay under 2k for lens as I’m just getting my feet wet. I’ve seen a canon 50mm f/1.8 stm recommended, any thoughts on thus lens ?

27th August 2022 at 12:35 pm

My pleasure! Yes, the 6D Mark II does usually have the option for the 24-105 as a “kit” lens, but it’s definitely more than your standard kit lens and worth adding on in my opinion.

The 50mm f/1.8, or nifty fifty as it’s often referred to, is a fantastic lens, especially for the price. I recommend everyone has one. It’s not necessarily a “travel” lens because most folks looking for a travel lens want something that covers a range of focal lengths. However, I always suggest people pick one up because it’s a great option for portrait work and anything else where you want a nice shallow depth of field. It can also work as a travel lens, you just have to get used to moving yourself around rather than using the zoom, which is actually not a bad thing.

Let me know if you have any other questions, and enjoy your new gear!

Arijit says

19th July 2020 at 3:46 pm

Great article! Hope you would be able to help me take my decision.

I own a Nikon D5200 (DX) and looking for a single lens which covers all or most aspects of photography (wide angle, portrait, zoom, etc). I had filtered down to 3 lenses- Nikon 18-300 mm (best for Nikon cameras as per your article), Sigma 18-300mm with Macro, Tamron 16-300 with Macro. I had Tamron 18-400 mm in my mind as well but then I thought that additional 100mm is not something I would fancy, as 300mm is still good enough for me and with the Sigma 300mm lens I am getting macro function.

All these 3 lenses are in same price range. But what I researched and understood was that Sigma lenses have best image quality of the three. Undoubtedly, Nikkor has the best overall optics but with Sigma I am also getting a macro feature which I feel I might use more than the 300mm though it is still good to have range.

I also heard that with Sigma 18-300, we might experience stabilization issues at higher mm for video. My requirement is to have the best of image and video quality with a single lens.

Would be grateful if you could share some thoughts on what should I consider.

Thanks in advance!

19th July 2020 at 8:18 pm

Thanks very much! So the lenses you list have some differences. Between the Tamron and the Sigma the Sigma as you say should have the best image quality, specifically sharpness, which is definitely important. Overall though the Nikon is generally better. I would also say that the Macro designation of the Tamron and Sigma is a bit misleading. Whilst they have a slightly closer minimum focus distance than the Nikon, neither are true macro lenses. A true macro lens would allow you to shoot an image with 1:1 magnification, meaning that the size of the image in real life is the same size as it’s reproduced on the sensor. The Tamron and Sigma both only offer a 1:3 magnification.

The reason these two lenses have the macro name is because they can both focus on objects that are within 39cm of the camera, whilst the Nikon has a minimum focus distance of 49cm. Honestly, this is not a big difference, and you will not get a real macro experience from any of these lenses, certainly not enough to make a difference. Usually a macro lens can focus on objects that are 30cm or less from the end of the camera.

So for this reason I would probably recommend the Nikon for overall best performance 🙂

I hope this helps!

Debasis Goswami says

27th February 2020 at 3:44 pm

You never want to put a UV filter for a digital camera. Useless and makes any lens perform poorly. That was such a put off right at the beginning.

27th February 2020 at 3:50 pm

Hi Debasis,

I have to respectfully disagree. A UV filter has protected my lens from damage on a number of occasions, where the filter has been destroyed but the lens is fine. In addition, a good quality UV filter is just a piece of glass, as is the rest of the lens. Studies have shown minimal to no impact in image quality, and it’s generally not noticeable either unless you’re pixel peeping.

In addition, the majority of “weather-sealed” lenses are only truly weather sealed with a filter on.

Of course, I don’t advocate putting a $10 filter on a thousand dollar+ lens. But I do think they are worth it. That said, each to their own. Whatever works for you is best 🙂

Thanks for your comment,

10th November 2019 at 1:14 am

I own a Canon 80D with 10-18 lens, 15-85 Aps-cl ens (probably selling),55-250 (never used probably selling) and Tamron 18-400. I just purchased 24-70 f/4L lens and am thinking of purchasing Canon 6D mark II. I use the 80D for everything and I am thinking the full frame 6DMII will help me get nice crisp pictures in low light and other shots. Do you think this is a good idea to have the crop and get a FF camera? I am not a beginner and not advanced photographer in between the two and still learning

10th November 2019 at 12:05 pm

The 6D Mark 2 is a great camera and will compliment your crop sensor nicely. I always have two bodies, although they are both full frame, it just makes it easier to get shots sometimes without having to mess around switching lenses.

6th September 2019 at 2:31 pm

Hello Laurence, We enjoyed your very well written article. We are getting ready to leave on safari and are looking at purchasing a mirrorless camera. We are very intermediate photographers. We currently use a Canon EOS 7D. We were contemplating staying with Canon due to familiarity. However, your article, as well as others, is pointing toward Sony. What is your recommendation? Lenses, etc? The Sony A7III sounds like the best set up (battery life, etc). What about ease of use? Also, I suppose a need a 200mm or longer telephoto lens, correct. I’m not sure I wanted to invest $5,000 in a camera as we are far from avid photographers. We are traveling more though and expect to get more into photography as we travel. Looking forward to your feedback. Thank you!

6th September 2019 at 3:37 pm

Thanks very much. I would say that if you are happy with the Canon 7D, you should stick with it and spend the money on a lens. A crop sensor camera is a good option for wildlife photography as it gets you closer to the action with the same focal length lens compared to a full frame camera. I would also add that if you are used to the Canon menu system, the Sony will take some getting used to, and many Canon photographers are not keen on the color of the images that Sony cameras produce.

I would instead suggest that you invest in a decent lens for wildlife photography for your Canon, or at least look to rent one. I’d advise something like the Canon 70-200 f/2.8 + a 2x doubler (quite a flexible setup), or the Sigma 150-500. The latter is a bit slower, but the zoom range is pretty amazing!

I hope this helps, let me know if I can help further,

EllenH says

4th September 2019 at 2:19 pm

I have one more question…if I rent a lens or two for my vacation to try out… which ones you choose to shoot Athens Greece and Paros Greece… I have only been in photography 6 months and have a canon EOS rebel T7i

EllenM says

4th September 2019 at 12:17 pm

I have a Canon Rebel T7i… on my next travel we are going to Greece… I will be taking pictures of sunsets, archeology sites, views of the acropolis, Parthenon, mount lycabetta; views of boats and white houses… what is your suggested lens? Sigma 18-300 or the canon 50?

4th September 2019 at 7:06 pm

I would definitely go for the 18-300 which would give you a lot more range and choices for your photography. The 50mm is a great lens, but having a fixed focal length will definitely restrict you!

4th September 2019 at 8:15 pm

I am considering renting… should I stay with this option?

5th September 2019 at 8:08 am

It’s up to you! Are you renting because you want to trial a lens for a future purchase, or just as a one-off? I’d say the Sigma lens you previously mentioned would be a good option in general, but you could rent a more premium lens. I don’t think it would make a huge difference – normally I’d recommend renting for more specialised trips like safaris or other wildlife encounters, where a really nice expensive zoom lens will make a huge difference – but it’s not a lens you’d really use very often otherwise.

I hope this helps 🙂

4th September 2019 at 1:36 am

Hello from Puerto Rico!

I currently own a Canon 6D Mark II eith a 24-105 mm f4 II Lens. I also own a Rokinon 14mm f 2.8 AF and a Tamron 35-105 mm f2.8. I have some traveling planned for November to Spain, France, Italy and Portugal. What should I bring in? Do I need a better Zoom lens such as a 70-200 mm ? I currently have a 75-300 mm f3.5-5.6 crop sensor lens from a previous Canon Camera. Can’t wait for your recommendations!

Best Regards!

4th September 2019 at 7:04 pm

it really depends what you want to photography and how much weight you want to carry! If it’s primarily landscapes and street photography, and you only want one lens, then the 24-105 would be my suggestions. If you want wider shots, then the Rokinon would be the best option.

It’s less likely you will need the extra zoom – it can be useful in some specific situations like wildlife and for candid portraiture from a distance, but it’s a lot of additional weight that you probably won’t use that often!

I hope this helps – have a great time in Europe!

4th September 2019 at 8:41 pm

Thanks! ????

30th August 2019 at 12:37 am

I travel with the Canon 24-70 f/4 on a 6D. Compared to both the 24-70 f/2.8 and 24-105, it weighs less, cost less, and has a sort-of macro mode (.7x) for flowers and any strange bugs one meets. The extra 35mm on the long end I hardly ever miss. I either need no more than 70 or go straight to wishing I had 400.

30th August 2019 at 6:07 am

Great to hear that you have found the right lens for you 🙂 It’s certainly an excellent lens, and a great lighter option for sure. You are right, those few mm don’t make that much difference, especially with how many megapixels most cameras give you these days and the power of cropping!

Happy photography!

Usama Zulfiqar says

14th August 2019 at 10:41 am

Great article and fully endorse your views. I am enthusiastic photographer and have Nikon D750 with 24-120mm f/4, 50mm 1.8 and 85mm 1.8 lens+Godox Flash. I am planning for a short trip to my home town with loads of indoors gathering and few outdoors gatherings as well, but wanted to carry only two lens max.due to weight issue.

I had previously used 24-120mm for shooting a wedding and it went very well as my photos were as good /sharp as photos taken by professional photographer. I am quite comfortable with this lens, despite losing bokeh compared to 50mm and 85mm.

I will also take some portraits and shots of toddlers and kids running around. My question, which lens you recommend to pack in my carrying bag?

14th August 2019 at 8:01 pm

Thank you very much 🙂 So I would say that if you are happy with the performance of the 24-120 f/4, then that would be a great option as it’s going to be pretty versatile. For the other lens (I think you wanted two), I’d personally go with the 85mm as it’s going to be better for portraits, and will be easier for candid work as you will be able to get photos of people with them noticing less. The 50mm is a great lens too, but it’s harder to get those candid moments if you have to stand closer.

I hope this helps. If you really only wanted to take 1 lens I’d probably pick the 50mm as you could always crop, and it will be a bit more versatile for more situations.

31st July 2019 at 2:53 pm

Hi.. On my weekend travels i normally use NIkon 18-55 VR. And Nikon 35mm 1.8G for low light situation. I don’t take Nikor 55-300 and Tamron wide angle in my bag for travel. It’s a little inconvenient to swap the lens for telephoto or wide angle in some situation since travelling with family (we have 2 year old kid) and the weight of the bag carrying too many lens..!

I’m thinking to buy a good walk around lens (Nikor or third party) and sell both NIkor 18-55VR and 55-300 (or at least keep my first lens 18-55VR).

Do you have any suggestion on my situation? what should be the walk around lens i should go for?

31st July 2019 at 3:02 pm

Obviously it will depend on your budget. I’d suggest either the 18-300mm in the list above, which would be a good all around option. Alternatively if you want a wider aperture for lower light, then you might consider the 24-70 2.8. However it has much less focal length and is also quite expensive, so I think the 18-300 would be a better walkaround option, and would replace your two other lenses you mention.

18th July 2019 at 4:31 am

Thanks for your great articles Laurence, I have found them very informative and clearly explained, which is most helpful to a beginner photographer trying to learn more about the key features of the camera/lens setup and how they impact picture quality. Please forgive the newbie question, but in describing the lenses, you talk about a lens being faster or slower than another? What does that mean in layman’s terms, ie. how is a lens faster than another ? does it refer to the time the light takes to reach the sensor and hence how quickly you can take multiple shots or something else ?

18th July 2019 at 6:08 am

My pleasure. That is a great question, and I should definitely explain it in the article. However, first I’ll tell you 🙂

So, a fast lens is so called because it will have a wider aperture. A wider aperture lets more light in, which means you can use a faster shutter speed, compared to a lens with a smaller aperture (in the same light conditions). Hence, a “fast” lens. The aperture, shutter speed and ISO are all linked in the way a camera works, which I explain in much more detail in my guide to exposure, which you can see here:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/exposure-triangle-photography/

Let me know if that doesn’t make sense. It’s not a totally obvious concept I’m afraid, but with a bit of practice it should start to make sense 😉

10th July 2019 at 12:33 pm

Hi Lawrence,

Thank you so much for such nice explanations about different features of camera and lenses. I truly loved the details. I am just wondering in the sentence below, which you wrote

“So a 100mm lens on an APS-C sized sensor will give the same result in terms of the image as you would be able to achieve with a 160mm lens on a full frame camera.”

Shouldn’t it be the other way around? That is a 160 mm lens on APS-C camera will give same result for 100 mm lens on a full frame?

Thanks again, I look forward to your answer.

10th July 2019 at 12:46 pm

Just wondering if what you wrote is correct, does it mean that for a wide angle picture (for a given lens), a full frame sensor is better than APS-C? Whereas, for a magnified/zoomed image an APS-C sensor is better?

12th July 2019 at 4:23 am

For a zoomed image, an APS-C sensor is often preferred as it gives more “zoom” to the lenses, hence why wildlife photographers like crop sensors 🙂

12th July 2019 at 4:22 am

What I wrote was correct 🙂 A 100mm lens on an APS-C sensor has a crop factor applied. You multiply the lens focal length by the crop factor (for most APS-C lenses this is 1.6x), giving an equivalent of 160mm.

Liz Hetherington says

5th May 2019 at 6:01 am

Hi I recently moved from full frame Nikon to Nikon mirrorless and bought the standard z6 kit with 24-70 f4 for less weight while travelling. I did trade in my F 2.8 🙁 . I’m now a bit worried I’m not going to be happy with this new lens in comparison. Your thoughts? Also do you think it’s worth getting the 50mm 1.8 prime? I’m off to Alaska hiking and kayaking. I love taking landscapes, macro and wildlife Liz

5th May 2019 at 9:39 am

To be honest, unless you are doing a great deal of low light work, or shooting events like weddings, I think the lighter nature of the f/4 lens will make up for the loss of one stop of light. For travel, personally as a landscape photographer I rarely find myself shooting wide open, except for the odd portrait or wildlife shot. And the one stop I don’t think is hugely significant for wildlife photography. When I’m shooting wildlife, even though I have a 70-200 f/2.8 lens, I usually have a doubler on it, so it ends up being an f/5.6, and I’ve not had any problems!

For what you are shooting, I’m not sure the 50mm prime will be much use. It’s usually a nice way to get great portraits on the cheap, but I’m not sure you’d find yourself using it all that much 🙂

I hope this helps – I think you’ll be happy with your lens choice!

Image Earth Travel says

28th March 2019 at 1:44 pm

Great write-up and comparisons – lots of food for thought!

I have to mention that I don’t totally agree with your view on the Nikkor 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens. I’ve been using this lens on my Nikon D600 since 2013, but travelling full time since 2014. The lens diminishes my D600’s 24.3 MP to only 10P-MP. A testing link you may be interested to check out: https://www.dxomark.com/Lenses/Nikon/AF-S-NIKKOR-28-300mm-f-3.5-5.6-ED-VR-mounted-on-Nikon-D600__834

In addition, the distortion the lens creates when taking architectural images is much higher than my previous cheaper Canon EOS550D+Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 that I used on my 2011, 10-month trip. (Prior to these 2 models, I used a combination of film cameras and lenses.)

Overall, I’m disappointed with my decision to swap from Canon to Nikon – not only much more expensive, but not optimal for travelling as the camera+lens weighs around 3kgs.

I’m yet to discover the best travel camera+lens combination to handle candid and landscapes (including architecture) photography. I like the idea of just having one camera body+one lens – for me, it’s always going to be a zoom lens. So, I understand that the optics of the zoom will never be as good as a fixed lens and always a compromise, but for the money I spent back in 2013 on my Nikon kit I expected better quality. Only as good as the lens right? 😉

28th March 2019 at 3:33 pm

So I am a little confused – this is an FX lens on an FX body, so there should be no reduction in megapixel and it should be able to use the full sensor frame. I don’t understand how it would cause the images to go down to 10MP – that would normally only happen if you used a DX lens on an FX body.

Lens distortions are always going to be an issue for sure, although they can be often fixed in Lightroom or other photo editing software. But yes, the greater the focal range of the lens in my experience, the lower the image quality and the greater the distortion. It’s just a reality unfortunately.

I think you might overall be better off with a different system entirely in weight is more important. Perhaps one of the mirrorless systems. There are many to choose from, especially if you don’t mind stepping down a bit in sensor size. Ultimately though, you are right, good glass is critical to great images – but it tends to come at a price (and weight!).

Saikat Sen says

26th August 2019 at 4:42 am

Disappointed to see that you have not considered the Tamron 16-300 VC f/3.5-6.3, which according to my experience is a great walk around travel lens, weighing just about a pound, cheaper than any other lens you have mentioned here and providing 16mm at the wide end, which roughly equivalent to 24mm at the APS C sensor. Needless to say that it has full-time manual override, which is very useful to those who really like to use it manually with the library to get the auto focus as and when required.

26th August 2019 at 7:25 pm

Thanks for your comment, and I’m delighted you’ve found a lens that works for you. There are lots of great lenses out there! I think the 18-400 Tamron I recommend is a good option, but of course, if folks would prefer something a little lighter and don’t mind trading off a bit of focal length on the zoom end, then the 16-300 is a great option too 🙂

Lucas Peters says

11th February 2019 at 8:08 pm

Thank you for taking the time to put this article together. I’m sure it’s a ton of research. For the next one, really consider the Sony 24-105mm G OSS f/4. I’ve been using it for travel (England, Iceland, France, Spain and Morocco) over the last few months and am super happy. On a full-frame, you can crop to get an equivalent 150mm or so range for a nice little punch-in. Nice colors. Solid sharpness (though a tad softer at 105, but not too bad), an overall better performance than the SonyZeiss 24-70mm with a larger range. Check it out when you can.

12th February 2019 at 5:42 pm

Thanks for the input, that’s much appreciated. I will certainly take a look at that lens and consider including it 😀

12th February 2019 at 9:07 pm

If you liked the Canon L 24-105, you’ll probably like this a lot.

Curious why you are adverse to small primes. I probably do the vast majority of my shooting with the Sony-Zeiss 35mm 2.8 (you can get them 2nd hand pretty consistently for 300-400 now, making it a great budget option). It’s an awesomely light weight walk around kit.

13th February 2019 at 9:11 pm

I’m not adverse to them at all, I think they are awesome bits of kit. However, for this post the goal was picking lenses that the majority of folks would use without having to carry too many lenses, and whilst I love primes for their sharpness and speed, I think the majority of folks reading this guide are looking more for a one size fits all solution 🙂

Alicja Abela says

30th January 2019 at 12:44 am

I am a beginner photographer and am wanting to buy a Canon 80D for a trip to NZ in November. What lense/ lenses would you suggest for getting landscape shots but also wildlife? much appreciate your advice.

30th January 2019 at 7:28 pm

So for landscapes I’d recommend a wide angle lens like the Canon EF-S 10-18mm. That’s a really good value lens, and the ultrawide angle will let you get some great landscapes. The logical lens to pair it with would be the Tamrom 18-400, which would be great for pretty much everything else, including portraits and wildlife. These are not super expensive lenses, which also makes them lighter for travel, but if you wanted to spend more for some reason, I can recommend more expensive lenses too of course!

Have an amazing time in New Zealand 🙂

1st February 2019 at 8:48 am

Thank you for the recommendation. After looking at the pricing of both 80d and lenses I think I will have to look for a cheaper model such as a 200D. Are there a couple of lenses that I could take that would do a good job on landscapes, action and wildlife that would add up to around $1000 Aus doll ars max?

1st February 2019 at 6:43 pm

So you could get away with just the Tamron lens, and not getting the wide angle. It will work for the majority of shots. Or you could get the Sigma 18-300 and the Canon 10-18, which should come in to $1000.

I am assuming the $1000 doesn’t include the camera purchase. If that is included then you will likely be best buying that body only, and then getting the Sigma 18-300.

Alicja says

2nd February 2019 at 12:44 am

Thank you so much. That was so helpful!

12th December 2018 at 12:57 pm

You have the details wrong on the Lumix wide zoom, it is 8-18 not 8-14

12th December 2018 at 1:06 pm

Good catch! Thanks very much, I’ve updated the post 🙂

26th October 2018 at 3:53 pm

Great article..!

I have Nikon D3400 camera with kit lens amd 35mm Nikon prime lens. Normally i use 35mm lens when we go for family trip. Even if it is a good lens i miss many good shots since it is not wide enough. I am thinking about buying a wide angle lens for travel photography (weekend road trip with family 🙂 ). I considered Tamron 10-24mm VC and Nikon 10-20mm VR. What is your suggestion on my situation ? Should i stick with my kit lens for travel or buy any other walk around lens like Nikon 18-300 or Tamron 18-400?

26th October 2018 at 6:10 pm

Thanks! It’s hard to know exactly what to advise as I’m not sure if you are into wildlife photography or any other types of photography where you will be using the extra length of a longer zoom. So whilst the 18-300 or 18-400 or certainly good options, I think if your main issue is currently not being wide enough, and wide angle photography interests you more, then a 10-24 or 10-20 would be a better choice.

Another option is to try the 18-400 or 18-300 and see if it is wide enough for your needs. The difference between 10mm and 18mm is quite a lot, but you might find it suits what you want to do with, plus gives you a lot more flexibility and choice of focal lengths.

16th October 2018 at 8:34 am

Hi, Great article! I am planning to upgrade from 550D to an 80D, and was wondering about the lenses I could pair it up with. I have a canon 50mm f/1.8 STM prime which I love (and so does the rest of the world, it seems!). I ditched my 6 yrs old canon 18-55 IS II for a sigma 18-35 f/1.8. And on the telephoto end, I am aiming for the Tamron 100-400. Have read some good reviews about it, and its probably the lightest and most easy-to carry telephoto of that range (though not the best w.r.t. IQ, but would be a huge improvement over my notoriously soft canon 55-250 IS II). I shoot birds at times, and so need a good telephoto range. I am slightly worried about losing the mid range (50-100), but was analysing my pictures, and realised I don’t shoot very often in that range. Would love to hear your opinion as well.

17th October 2018 at 7:45 pm

So the good news as you no doubt already know is that the 550D and the 80D have the same sized sensor and mount, so all your lenses will just work across the cameras. I would say that you would be fine without the middle focal length. We usually travel with a 17-40 and a 70-200, and we’re usually shooting either very wide at 17mm or 100mm+, so don’t miss that middle range too much! It all depends on the kind of photography you do, and it sounds like you have a solid idea of what it is you want to shoot, as well as the focal ranges you use most regularly. So if that lens suits your budget and needs, I would say to go for it!

julie anne says

3rd October 2018 at 6:00 pm

hello I just want to ask what camera lens is compatible with canon m50? thanks

4th October 2018 at 4:00 am

Hey Julie! Great question. So you have two main options – there’s a range of EF-M lenses made by Canon for the camera, which I haven’t included here as they are quite specific to the EOS M range. The other option is to get the adaptor which will let you use any EF-S or EF lens, which you can get here: https://amzn.to/2DV5fy5

In which case, the Canon lenses listed here, as well as various third party lenses from brands like Sigma and Tamron will work. Hope this helps!

Caitlin says

25th August 2018 at 1:17 pm

Thank you so much for this informative post. I am starting out on my travel photography journey across the Middle East and was overwhelmed by where to begin with cameras. This was very helpful!

25th August 2018 at 1:33 pm

My pleasure! Let us know if you have any questions 🙂

Ira Sockowitz says

9th August 2018 at 8:15 pm

Laurence, thanks for a very thoughtful and in-depth discussion of options for a wide range of shooters.

As an owner of two bodies, Canon 5D and 5D Mark II respectively, I already own some of the lenses you reference. As I am planning a 9-15 moth RTW trip, I have a couple of questions for you: 1. My everyday lens is the 24-70 f2.8L so covered there. If you are willing to bear the wight, should I carry my 70-200 f.28L? I think I see it in some of your photos and wonder of its uses – close ups of nice architecture as well as long landscape shots. If not, what lighter weight alternative do you use/recommend? 2. Should I consider a smaller, more pocket-sized or easily managed camera for urban travel? I note that you use a mirrorless and again ask about the utility of doing that versus carrying my larger DSLR everywhere.

Appreciate all that you and Jessica do to aide us travelers and look forward to your reply.

9th August 2018 at 8:36 pm

Hi Ira. My pleasure, and thanks for your kind words.

So I normally travel with a 17-40 and a 70-200. So you could say I’m missing that classic middle ground, but I find the other two lenses cover enough to make up for it. If I was going on a round the world trip, I think I would lean more towards leaving the 70-200 at home. It is massively heavy, and unless there are really specific shots you want, you might find yourself doing fine with the 24-70. I would perhaps look at investing in a 2x extender instead and using that with your 24-70. It won’t be quite as amazing as the 70-200 in terms of sharpness and autofocus speed, but if you’re not shooting fast moving subjects, or planning on selling your photos to be printed on the side of buildings, I don’t think you’ll notice 🙂

We do travel with a Lumix GX8, which is a great camera. However, if I was to start over, I think I’d likely look at one of the larger sensor compact cameras for more casual use. These are really quite compact and portable, shoot in RAW, and have decent manual controls. The later Sony RX100 models, or the Panasonic Lumix TZ100 / TX200 would be my choice I think, purely so I can have a simple solution that doesn’t come with its own lens ecosystem to worry about!

I hope this helps, happy to expand more of course 🙂

1st August 2018 at 1:51 am

Thanks so much for the very helpful article.

I’ve been using a T3i and the 18-200mm for years, and am upgrading for my latest trip. I just got the Canon 77D and am contemplating whether to get a new lens as well. Realistically, I usually only carry one lens since it is a pain to switch; the 18-200 has done a great job covering both landscapes and far off subjects, but lately I’ve been more aware when it isn’t crisp. Do you think it is worth it to go for something like an 18-55 (similar to the 24-70 full frame on an APS-C I think) or similar? I’m not sure how much better the image quality would be (obviously some with the smaller range, but unclear the degree of improvement).

1st August 2018 at 11:45 am

First, I’d definitely ask if you need the extra range of something like the 18-200 – if you often find yourself at the more zoom end of the lens, then you will likely be unsatisfied with a shorter focal length.

Second, a newer camera body with a better sensor is definitely going to highlight the issues with your existing lens, so if you are noticing problems on the T3i with your existing lens, these will only be more apparent with a better body unfortunately. Of course, it also depends on what you are using your photos for – whilst images can look bad when we inspect them close up, if your shots are mostly for social media or relatively small images, you might not really notice, but for larger use, and especially for printing, you will likely want a higher quality lens.

Without an idea of your budget, its hard to give an exact recommendation, but generally higher quality means higher cost unfortunately!

One good option would be to rent a couple of the lenses you are looking into to see if you can really tell the difference, and go from there 🙂

4th August 2018 at 10:27 pm

On past trips I’ve definitely found myself using the range of the lens to take portraits of people from far away, and get far off statues etc., though the majority of my use is landscape and smaller zooms.

For now, my pictures are mostly just stored on my computer, but eventually I would like to print larger versions of them (though more likely in the 16×24 range, not huge). I’d like to keep expenditure <$1000 on the lens – I think the rental idea is a good one!

Rick Petersen says

18th June 2018 at 3:11 am

My camera system and lenses are pretty set, but it was informative article. Like seeing others opinions on gear which is how I found this.

Currently shooting a Lumix GX8, with the Leica 12-60mm and Leica 25mm. Love this combo and concur with your recommendation of a standard zoom and fast prime.

19th June 2018 at 11:23 pm

Thanks Rick! We also have the GX8, it’s a lovely camera, and we have it with the Lumix 12-35 f/2.8 which is a great walkaround travel lens too. Sounds like you have the perfect set up for travel, light and discreet 🙂 HAppy shooting!

16th June 2018 at 8:21 pm

After reading all that you still don’t come up with a good travel lens??????? Whats the point????

16th June 2018 at 10:17 pm

Hey Max! The goal of the article is to help folk navigate the fairly overwhelming choice of travel lenses, with suggestions given for different camera systems and budgets. Most folks should have an idea of what their camera system is, and then what their budget is, and from that it should be easy to use this post to decide which is going to be the best lens for them 🙂

Thomas FISCHER says

31st May 2018 at 1:31 pm

Great great article.

I am wondering for MFT what do think about thoses lenses for travelling: – 14-140 II F3.5 – lumix 7-14 F4 – lumix leica 15 mm F1.7 – lumix 42.5 F1/7

31st May 2018 at 7:27 pm

Thanks very much. I do love prime lenses because you get that lovely shallow depth of field effect, and they tend to be really sharp. I didn’t recommend any in my post because, well, I would have been writing forever, but with a micro four thirds system they make good sense because the whole system is smaller, so for travelling you can still have some prime lenses. I’d say your selection is ideal for travelling, with a focal range to cover pretty much everything from landscapes to animals, plus some nice lenses for portraits. So yes, I think you’ve picked some excellent choices!

13th May 2018 at 8:33 am

Hi Scott, and thanks for your comment. THe post is definitely new, although we do of course update old posts to ensure they are still relevant. In this case though that isn’t the case, I just missed that lens. I’ll take a look and see where it would fit, and thanks again for your input. Cheers, Laurence.

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Home » Gear » best canon travel lenses

16 UNBELIEVABLE Canon Travel Lenses (2024)

Canon is one the most successful and well-regarded lens manufacturers in the world and for good reason – they produce some stunning pieces of glass. Because of this, there is a Canon lens for nearly every type of photography out there – especially for travel photographers!

But sorting through Canon’s lens library can be very daunting. Which is exactly why we wrote this epic guide to the best travel lesnses for Canon. 

To shoot like a pro, you have to pack like a pro, and this insider guide to the best Canon travel lenses will show you EXACTLY which travel lens is best for YOU.

So without further ado, let’s get into discussing the best Canon lenses for travel photography (so you can shoot like a pro!)

Quick Answers: Best Full Frame Canon Travel Lenses

Quick answers: best travel lenses for canon ef-s, best full frame canon lenses for travel, best ef-s canon travel lenses of 2018, things to consider when buying the best travel lenses for canon, faq about the best canon travel lenses, final thoughts.

• All Around Best Travel Lens for Canon Full Frame – Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L IS USM
• Best Full Frame Budget Travel Lens for Canon – Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 XR Di LD
• Best Full Frame Professional Travel Lens for Canon – Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
• Best Full Frame Prime Travel Lens for Canon – Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
• Jump to -> The List of Best Full Frame Canon Lenses for Traveling

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L IS USM

• Feature Highlights > IS, 77mm filter
• Weight > 1.47 lbs/670 g
• Dimensions > 3.29” x 4.21”

Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 XR Di LD

• Feature Highlights > No IS, 67mm filter
• Weight > 1.12 lbs/508 g
• Dimensions > 2.87” x 3.62”

Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM

• Feature Highlights > No IS, 82mm filter
• Weight > 1.77 lbs/ 805 g
• Dimensions > 3.48” x 4.45”

Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM

• Feature Highlights > No IS, 49mm filter
• Weight > 5.64 oz/160 g
• Dimensions > 2.72” x 1.54”
• All Around Best Travel Lens for Canon EF-S –   Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens
• Best EF-S Budget Travel Lens for Canon EF-S –   Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM
• Best EF-S Professional Travel Lens for Canon EF-S – Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8
• Best EF-S Prime Travel Lens for Canon EF-S – Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
• Jump to -> The List of Best EF-S Canon Travel Lenses of 2018

Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM

• Weight > 1.42 lbs/645 g
• Dimensions > 3.29” x 4.35”

Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM

• Weight > 1.24 lb/565 g
• Dimensions > 3.3” x 3.6”

Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8

• Feature Highlights > No IS, 72mm filter
• Weight > 1.78 lb/811 g
• Dimensions > 3.07” x 4.76”

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Canon is, in a sense, at the head of the pack when it comes to lens R&D and is usually the vanguard of all things new and exciting in the camera lens world.

If you have a Canon camera (EF or EF-S) and are having trouble finding the best Canon lenses for travel photography, then we’re here to help!

We’ve compiled a list of 16 lenses that are suitable for travel photography. Each has their own merits (and faults) that will suit whatever kind of photographer that you are. Whether or not you’re a professional or an ultralight backpacker or a casual enthusiast there’s a travel lens from Canon out there for you!

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All Around Best Canon Lens for Travel (Full Frame)

  canon ef 24-105mm f/4.0 l is usm.

• Weight:  1.47 lbs/670 g
• Dimensions:  3.29” x 4.21”
• Filter Size:  77mm
• Image Stabilization:  Yes

The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L took the travel photography world by storm when it was released. With solid optics, a very useful focal range, image stabilization, and a respectable aperture, the Canon 24-105mm seemingly has it all. For those who want a useful full frame zoom lens that can do a little bit of everything, the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L IS USM is a great buy and is our choice for best Canon lens for travel photography.

The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L IS USM greatest strengths are its focal range and superior optical performance. At 24-105mm, this lens can capture everything from landscapes to close-up portraits.

The f/4.0 aperture, though not the fastest, is still very capable and, when shot wide open, can still create some nice bokeh. The lens is quite sharp – especially when stopped down – and combined with image stabilization and a fast autofocus, images are sure to be crisp.

The of Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L IS USM does suffer from some distortion and chromatic aberrations. These are to be expected though from such a large package and these can easily be fixed in post-processing anyway.

Overall sharpness isn’t jaw-dropping either but, as mentioned before, stopping down the lens can fix this.

• Very useful focal range.
• Solid optical performance.
• Effective IS and autofocus.
• Should be stopped down for optimal sharpness.
• Some distortion and chromatic aberrations.
• Not the fastest aperture.

Best Full Frame Budget Canon Lens for Travel

  tamron 28-75 f/2.8 xr di ld.

• Weight:  1.12 lbs/508 g
• Dimensions:  2.87” x 3.62”
• Filter Size:  67mm
• Image Stabilization:  No

Though we were tempted to name the legendarily affordable Canon 50mm f/1.8 as our pick for best budget Canon lens for travel, we simply couldn’t pass on the Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 XR Di LD.

For around $500, you can get a fast, lightweight, sharp lens; that just about covers all the bases for travel photography! Though it’s not the cheapest lens on this list, the Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 XR Di LD is certainly the best bang for your buck and a great alternative to some of the more expensive full frame lenses.

Aside from the price, the Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 XR Di LD greatest strengths are its size and image quality. At the time of its release, this lens was touted as the lightest and most compact medium zoom lens (that had a f/2.8 aperture) yet. 10 years later, it’s still impressively useful.

With a fixed f/2.8 aperture, the Tamron Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 XR Di LD should deliver excellent image quality as is customary of this type of lens. It doesn, in fact, perform very well, creating pictures that are crisp and sharp. Corner softness is a problem when the aperture is wide open but, like most lenses, this disappears when the lens is stopped down. Distortion is noticeable at wider angles and CA is well controlled throughout.

The Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 XR Di LD is built from high-grade plastics. Usually, in these cases, durability becomes an issue as plastic is less hardy than certain alloys. Given the price point of this lens though (plastic is cheaper) this is understandable and probably forgivable if price is a concern.

• Very affordable.
• Light and small.
• Overall great image quality.
• Soft edges in images.
• Plastic construction.

Best Full Frame Professional Canon Travel Lens

  canon 24-70mm f/2.8l ii usm.

• Weight:  1.77 lbs/ 805 g
• Dimensions:  3.48” x 4.45”
• Filter Size:  82mm

If you like the idea of having a fast, supremely sharp lens that can outperform all the rest and you don’t have financial concerns, then the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is about the best that you can get.

With near-flawless optics, a constant f/2.8 aperture, and superb construction, the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is one of the most impressive lenses that you can buy and is our choice for the best professional Canon travel lens.

The Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is classified as a “medium zoom;” we’d like to call it a “working man’s lens” though because it performs amazingly well and is very reliable. Lenses like these are used by professionals to get shit done. The Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is no exception.

The Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM’s optics are just about perfect – sharpness is superlative, CA and distortion are extremely well controlled, and mechanics are state-of-the-art. The lens’ autofocus system is silent as the grave and very quick.

The constant f/2.8 aperture performs better when shot wide open than other lenses, so low light photography should be less of a hassle. Throw in a rugged, weather-sealed body that can withstand the elements, and you have a lens that can go anywhere and do (almost) anything.

The Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is not perfect though. Most noticeably, the lens struggles while shooting subjects up-close – sharpness drops down and focusing becomes finicky at these short distances.

On a more general note, the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM still lacks image stabilization, which appears to be endemic to all pro-level medium zooms. The price of this lens may make some shudder as well.

• Unbeaten image quality.
• Robust, weather-resistant build.
• Fast aperture and autofocus.
• Very expensive.
• Still no image stabilization?
• Struggles up close.

Best Full Frame Prime Canon Travel Lens

  canon 50mm f/1.8 stm.

• Weight:  5.64 oz/160 g
• Dimensions:  2.72” x 1.54”
• Filter Size:  49mm

Some lenses are just timeless; the Canon 50mm f/1.8 is one of those. For years, the Canon 50mm f/1.8 has been loved and used by thousands of photographers and has solidified itself in their kits. It’s current iteration, the Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM continues the legacy.

There are simply too few lenses that can compete with the Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM’s price point and image quality. This lens is one of the most useful (ever) and travel photographers can grab one for around only $100!

The Canon 50 f/1.8 STM offers great optical quality. When used wide open, the lens has great center sharpness although the edges are somewhat soft.

When stopped down, this softness disappears quickly. CA is well controlled and there is a bit of distortion but latter can be easily fixed in post-processing. Build-wise, the Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM is very-small, near pancake-like, and is built from more durable materials than its predecessors.

One of the reasons the Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM has succeeded so well is its focal length. 50mm lenses, lovingly referred to has “nifty fifties,” are super flexible focal-wise. Nearly any scene can be captured with a 50mm lens, from landscapes to people to urban settings. You can read this article for more on why 50mms are amazing.

Let’s not forget the age-old saying “you get what you pay for” though – the Canon 50 f/1.8 STM, obviously, lacks a lot of things.

Autofocus is reportedly a little sluggish, peak sharpness isn’t achieved until f/5.6, and distortion is apparent, which isn’t something you see very often in prime lenses. Downsides taken into consideration, it’s still hard not to love the Canon 50 f/1.8 STM.

• Price that can’t be beaten.
• Ultra-portable.
• Excellent optics.
• Autofocus can be sluggish.
• Has to be stopped down for best optical quality.
• Some distortion.

Best Full Frame Canon Travel Lens for Landscape Photographers

Canon ef 16-35mm f/4.0l is usm.

• Weight:  1.35 lbs/615 g
• Dimensions:  3.25” x 4.44”

For travel photographers who are going to be taking primarily landscape or, perhaps, interior architecture photos, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4.0L IS USM is a no-brainer. With astounding optical performance and a relatively lightweight, rugged body, this is the best Canon travel lens for landscape photographers.

Optically, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4.0L IS USM leaves little to be desired. The lens is amazingly sharp at nearly every aperture until f/16.0 when diffraction sets in. CA is well controlled and distortion, which is very common in wide zooms, is actually well-maintained.

The corners do show vignetting that never really disappears no matter what aperture you’re at but, like distortion, this can be alleviated somewhat in post-processing.

The Canon EF 16-35mm f/4.0L IS USM’s aperture is a little on the slow side and won’t be appropriate for certain situations like astrophotography. Thankfully, this lens does come equipped with image stabilization though, which will be helpful with handheld shooting in low-light as well as videography.

For diehard travel photographers who are constantly on the move, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4.0L IS USM lightweight will appeal greatly. Given its usefulness, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4.0L IS USM is quite compact and is thus more versatile.

Thanks to its robust construction as well, this lens will stand up to elements, which landscape photographers will be exposed to quite often.

• Lightweight.
• Excellent optical performance across the spectrum.
• Image stabilization helps with slower aperture.
• Slower aperture.
• Some corner shading.
• Not appropriate for astrophotography.

Best Full Frame Canon Travel Lens for Portrait Photographers

Canon 85mm f/1.8 usm.

• Weight:  15 ozs / 425 g
• Dimensions:  2.95” x 2.81”
• Filter Size:  58mm

Much like the Canon 50mm f/1.8 USM, the Canon 85mm f/1.8 USM stuns with its awesome image quality, small size/weight, and, best of all, unbeatable price. For those who enjoy portrait photography, this is the best travel lens for Canon hands down.

85mm is one of the most widely regarded focal lengths among photographers. At this narrower angle, subjects are isolated wonderfully against their backgrounds and bokeh is usually of that dreamy variety. These lenses are also known for being ridiculously sharp.

What dissuades many newcomer photographers from these 85mm lenses are that they are usually prohibitively expensive. Most of the good ones go for at least $1000 or more (the Canon 85mm f/1.2L is $1,800!!!).  The Canon 85mm f/1.8 USM, on the other hard, is usually found for only (^) though, which is why it’s such an awesome opportunity!’

The Canon 85mm f/1.8 USM delivers in much the same way as its competitors do – sharpness is excellent, the bokeh is smooth, autofocus is quick, and there is little in the way of blemishes e.g. CA, distortion or vignetting. This lens is the real deal.

The Canon 85mm f/1.8 USM does suffer from some very minor issues – shooting wide open often results in soft, CA laden images plus there’s no lens hood included. In my opinion, these flaws are far-and-away forgivable. At the end of the day, this is a must for any portrait photographer.

• Amazing price given its focal length.
• Stellar optics.
• Very compact.
• Little soft when shot wide open.
• Chromatic aberrations when shot wide open as well.
• No lens hood included.

Best Full Frame Canon Travel Lens for Astrophotographers

Rokinon 20mm f/1.8 as ed umc.

• Weight:  1.09 lbs/497 g
• Dimensions:  3.27” x 3.48”

The Korean company Rokinon, or Samyang as it’s sometimes referred to, is most well-known for producing sharp, effective lenses that are very affordable. The Rokinon 20mm f/1.8 AS ED UMC is one such lens. With this lens, you can capture the night sky in all of its splendor and not have to break the bank in the process. For these reasons, we think that the Rokinon 20mm f/1.8 AS ED UMC is the best Canon travel lens for astrophotography.

Rokinon lenses are cheaper because they lack a lot of the electronics that are found in modern day lenses. Autofocus and some recorded data are possible because of these electronic components and so Rokinon lenses cannot do either. When using the Rokinon 20mm f/1.8 AS ED UMC, you’ll have to focus the lens manually and write down the aperture value for future reference.

Honestly, focusing manually isn’t such a hassle especially if your shooting landscapes and starscapes. Since the scene in question is far away and doesn’t really “move,” you won’t have to worry much about shifting focus. For me, the cheaper price tag is worth the sacrifice.

Optically, the Rokinon 20mm f/1.8 AS ED UMC is still a worthy performer. Sharpness is great though you’ll have to deal with some CA at wider apertures; that latter bit maybe tedious as you’ll being shooting at wider apertures near constantly for astrophotography. Try stopping it down just a tad to hit that balance between optimal low light and optical performance.

The body of the Rokinon 20mm f/1.8 AS ED UMC is built from high-grade plastics while the mount is metal; both are quite sturdy. The whole lens can feel quite bulky though not as much as some other full frame lenses.

• Good optical performance for price.
• Distortion is well controlled.
• Fast and wide.
• Slightly bulky.
• Manual only.
• CA and shading at widest aperture

Best Full Frame Canon Travel Lens for Telephoto Lovers

  canon 70-200 f/4.0l usm.

• Weight:  2.99” x 6.77”
• Dimensions:  1.55 lbs/705 g
• Image Stabilization:  No, but can come with IS for a higher price

Telephoto zooms are some of the most expensive lenses out there – they’re bigger, have more moving parts, and contain more glass elements. Many wildlife photographers invest in only one and expect to get their money’s worth out it.

For those who can’t or don’t want to drop a couple of grand on a professional telephoto zoom or need IS, look no further than the Canon 70-200 f/4.0L USM! Though this lens is one of the most affordable in the bunch, it still performs very well. For backpackers who need something less expensive and doesn’t sacrifice much quality, the Canon 70-200 f/4.0L USM is one of the best telephoto Canon travel lenses that you can buy.

There’s not much to hate about how the Canon 70-200 f/4.0L USM performs – images are very sharp, CA is well controlled, and the autofocus is zippy. The corners are a bit soft at longer focal lengths but this is endemic of most telephoto zooms. It can arguably hold its own against other more expensive telephoto zooms outside of low-light situations.

Those who shoot fast-moving subjects or more often in low-light may be wanting something more out of the Canon 70-200 f/4.0L USM – the f/4.0 aperture is somewhat dim and the lack of IS can be a problem. Luckily, that latter gripe can be alleviated by investing a little more in the Canon 70-200 f/4.0L IS USM , which is the same lens albeit with image stabilization.

Being an L-type lens, the Canon 70-200 f/4.0L USM is quite robust and can hold its own against the elements. Weight wise, it’s actually a bit on the lighter side, which I’m sure will appease backpackers. It is not, shorter or less cumbersome than others though.

• Great price for telephoto.
• Excellent optical performance.
• Great autofocus.
• Still relatively big and bulky.
• f/4.0 may leave some wanting.
• No IS, but you can buy a different model with this feature

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All Around Best Canon Lens for Travel (EF-S)

  canon ef-s 17-55mm f/2.8 is usm.

• Weight:  1.42 lbs/645 g
• Dimensions:  3.29” x 4.35”

The Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM is a fine lens thanks to its fast aperture, image stabilization, and solid optical performance. If you need a medium zoom lens and like shooting in low-light than we recommend this one as it is our choice for the best Canon EF-S lens for travel photography!

At 17-55mm is roughly 25-85mm in full frame equivalency, which makes it a classic medium zoom. These lenses are usually very useful as they offer an excellent mix of great image quality, fast apertures, and the ability to shoot many subject matters because of its focal range.

The Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM is a fine medium zoom for the company’s EF-S line. Optics are generally very good in this lens – sharpness is excellent throughout the aperture range, peaking at f/4.0. Images are a little soft at f/2.8. CA and vignetting are also apparent when this lens is shot wide-open.

Of great benefit is the addition of image stabilization, which, for some reason, isn’t always built into f/2.8 medium zooms. The IS works very well and when you combine it with the fast aperture, you have a lens that functions very well in handheld/low-light situations.

The Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM is a bit bulky for an EF-S lens. Some might find this a positive rather than a negative though as its greater bulk is related to its greater durability. Overall, this lens is built rather well and should hold its own.

Finally, this lens is a bit expensive, again, considering that it’s for the EF-S line. If you find the price prohibitive, be sure to take a look at our next lens review!

• Performs very well in low-light.
• Good image quality.
• Quick, silent autofocusing.
• Chromatic aberration and vignetting.
• Slightly more expensive.

Best EF-S Budget Canon Travel Lens:

• Weight:  1.24 lb/565 g
• Dimensions:  3.3” x 3.6”

For those who might find the Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 too expensive, the Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM is an excellent alternative. For a couple of hundred dollars less, you have a lens that offers similar optical performance, image stabilization, and a fast aperture. The Sigma is one of the best bang-for-your-buck lenses on this list and is our choice for best budget travel lens for Canon’s EF-S mount.

The Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM performs in a very similar way to the Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 – sharpness is overall very good though the edges are soft, more so in the Sigma than the Canon. Chromatic aberrations are present to some degree and vignetting is a little stronger when the lens is shot wide-open. Each lens does produce slightly different distortions and CAs but these differences are minor enough to feel more like distinct and amiable personality traits.

Image stabilization (referred to as optical stabilization in Sigma lenses) is built into the Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 and works well. Like the Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8, the Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM excels in low-light situations because of its optical stabilization and fast aperture.

The Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM is a bit lighter than the Canon EF-S and the barrel is shorter as well. The plastic construction leaves a bit to be desired but the lens still feels solid enough. Many users report that the focus ring is a bit annoying to use as well.

• Great bang for your buck.
• Excellent center sharpness.
• Fast aperture and IS.
• Edges are soft at lower apertures.
• Tedious focus ring.

Best EF-S Professional Canon Travel Lens

  sigma art 18-35mm f/1.8.

• Weight:  1.78 lb/811 g
• Dimensions:  3.07” x 4.76”
• Filter Size:  72mm

If there was a lens that would convince someone to invest in the EF-S mount, it would be the Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8. Simply put, this lens is one of the most gorgeous, most effective, and most admired lenses in all of the photographic world. It is, without question, the best premium EF-S Canon travel lens that a professional could buy

The Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8 has it all – amazing optical quality, excellent construction, a fast aperture, and blazing autofocus. Even at its widest aperture (f/1.8), the Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8 is amazingly sharp from corner to corner, which is very impressive. Chromatic aberrations, vignetting, and distortion are still present but in microscopic amounts.

The Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8 is made from various alloys and feels very robust. Topping out at over 800 grams, this lens is definitely on the heavier side but, for many photographers, this adds a nice balance to the lens and feels good in their hands.

The focal range of the Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8 can feel a little limited for some photographers. Luckily, this range still contains some very useful focal lengths and users will still be adept at taking photos of everything from landscapes to portraits. Given the unprecedented performance of this lens as well, we think that it’s a worthy tradeoff.

• Extremely sharp at all apertures.
• Very few optical blemishes (CA, distortion, vignetting, etc).
• Focal range may be too limited for some.

Best EF-S Prime Canon Travel Lens

It’s back! Regardless of which Canon mount that you use, the Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM is still one of the best deals that you can find. Few lenses can compete with this one as no other offers the sharpness, size, and versatility this one does for such a low price. It is, above all else, the best budget Canon lens for travel of any sort, period.

Even though this lens was developed for the full frame Canon EF system, it can still be mounted on an EF-S body. By doing so, the lens’ focal length will effectively be extended – to 75mm – for certain technical reasons . Overall image quality isn’t affected in the least though and some might even find this change more appealing as the increased telephoto effect is great for portraits.

For a complete review of this lens, refer to our former expository . Aside from the focal length, little will be different about the Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM when using it with an Ef-S camera.

• Price that can’t be beat.

Best EF-S Canon Travel Lens for Landscape Photographers

  canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 is stm.

• Weight:  8.47 oz/240 g
• Dimensions:  2.94” x 2.83”

Don’t let this lens’ appearance fool you – this is one of the best Canon travel lenses for landscapes photographers out there and a must-have in their bags. Offering stellar sharpness in a tiny package and at a great price, the Canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM will serve you very well.

Most look at the Canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM’s price tag and plastic body and immediately dismiss it as poor craftsmanship. I mean, how could something that looks so basic be worth buying?

Little do they know that the Canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM is actually an extremely sharp lens at nearly every aperture setting. Seriously! Overall resolution with this lens is very impressive. Vignetting and distortion, which are common in wide-angle zooms, are still present but actually very well controlled. Chromatic aberrations are noticeable at times but these can be fixed in post processing.

Autofocus in the Canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM is speedy and the included image stabilization is very handy in low-light situations. The extra 4 stops of shake compensation that you get more than makes up for the relatively slow aperture.

At less than 10 ozs as well, the Canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM is very portable and should take up next to no room in your bag. The Canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM’s build quality is, justifiably, subject to some criticism for being rudimentary but, given the amazing price of this lens, most will forgive this fault I’m sure.

• Impressively sharp.
• Very good price.
• Some vignetting and distortion.
• Basic plastic construction.
• Chromatic aberrations present around the edges.

Best EF-S Canon Travel Lens Portrait Photographers

  canon 50mm f1/.4 usm.

• Weight:  10.23 oz/290 g
• Dimensions:  2.91” x 1.99”

For those who want a little extra speed to throw out the backgrounds behind their subjects, think about upgrading to the Canon 50mm f/1.4 USM over the f/1.8. The brighter aperture combined with good image quality is sure to create some amazing shots. We at Broke Backpacker definitely recommend this lens to any portrait photographer looking for the best travel lens for Canon.

Like the 50mm f/1.8 that we talked about just prior, the Canon 50mm f1/.4 USM was designed to be used with Canon’s full-frame EF mount. When used with a cropped EF-S mount, the focal length of this lens becomes longer. This gives the benefit of isolated your subjects even more and creates some lovely bokeh.

Optically, the Canon 50mm f1/.4 USM performs well though you’ll have to stop it down to around f/4.0 or f/5.6 to achieve maximum sharpness. When used wide-open,the edges are noticeably soft while the center is somewhat less sharp. Portrait photographers may not notice this softness around the edges or even care about it as these areas are usually blurred from the bokeh anyways.

Most of the time, the Canon 50mm f1/.4 USM’s autofocus performs as it should: quickly and accurately. Many users report that the autofocus can lag at times though. The Canon 50mm f1/.4 USM does tend to behave differently depending on the camera body that it’s mounted on and autofocus may be affected as such.

Build-wise, the Canon 50mm f1/.4 USM is built from high-grade plastics that many complain feel flimsy at times. Regardless of its integrity, which is good enough, the lens is very light and compact. Packing this one around is very easy.

• Very fast aperture.
• Good price.
• Center is sharp and bokeh is dreamy.
• Needs to be stopped down for optimal sharpness.
• Focusing struggles at times.

Best EF-S Canon Travel Lens for Astrophotographers

  samyang 16mm f/2.0 ed as usm cs.

• Weight:  1.28 lb/583 g
• Dimensions:  3.39” x 3.52”

Rokinon/Samyang deliver yet again the best travel Canon lens for astrophotographers. Like full frame Canon users, those who use the EF-S mount will find that Samyang lenses will give them the best low-light performance and for the best price. In summary, the best astrophotography lens for the Canon EF-S mount is the Samyang 16mm f/2.0 ED AS USM CS.

Like most Rokinon/Samyang lenses, image quality is excellent. Center sharpness is great from the get-go at f/2.0, while the edges are only moderately so. Stopping down the lens a bit allows the edges to catch-up sharpness-wise. Chromatic aberration, vignetting, and distortion are all well-controlled.

Even though the Samyang 16mm f/2.0 is built mostly from plastics sans the metal mount the whole lens feels very sturdy. The zoom ring is perfectly damped and feels great to use. Regrettably, there are no hyperfocal markings on the actual lens, which means you’ll have to use a separate app or make the calculations yourself. Investing in a Rokinon/Samyang lens means that you’ll have to relinquish autofocusing. While this could be a problem with certain types of shooting, autofocus isn’t very useful with astrophotography anyways. Shooting landscapes as well shouldn’t be hampered by manual focusing either. Doing both, you’ll hardly miss autofocusing.

• Great center sharpness.
• Good value.
• Fast aperture.
• Needs to be stopped down for edges to catch up.
• Manual focus.
• Lack of hyperfocal scale.

Best EF-S Canon Travel Lens for Telephoto Lovers

  canon ef-s 55-250mm f/4-5.6 is stm.

• Weight:  13.23 lb/ 375 g
• Dimensions:  2.76” x 4.38”

For photographers who use telephoto lenses a lot to shoot wildlife or sports, there’s a lot to love about the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM. This a surprisingly sharp lens that performs very well thanks to an effective autofocusing system in addition to image stabilization. Given the amazing price of the lens these days as well, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM should be in almost every Canon EF-S photographer’s bag.

We mentioned just before that the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is a surprisingly sharp lens – it is, in its own right, a very sharp lens actually. Center sharpness is excellent throughout the lens’ focal and aperture range. The edges, though slightly soft, are nice and sharp once the lens is stopped down. Overall sharpness does drop-off beyond the 200mm focal point though.

The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM has a fairly slow aperture, one that you’ll probably be stopping down anyways for sharpness. Thankfully, the lens’ internal stabilization is very effective and compensates for 4 stops of shakiness. Combine this with a quick and accurate autofocus system and capturing moving objects should be less of a problem.

Construction wise, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is just ok. The all-plastic body doesn’t necessarily scream “take me into the wilderness” but it’s still reasonably sturdy. Due to its plastic construction, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is very light especially so for a telephoto lens. Note that there is no lens hood included with this lens.

• Great sharpness.
• Very lightweight.
• Effective autofocus and IS.
• Aperture’s a little slow.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Lenses are just as if not more important as your travel camera ! They are the ones that create the image, that bend the light to then be read by the camera sensor. Sharpness, contrast, color, composition; all of these aspects are influenced greatly by the quality of your lens.

When looking for the best travel lens for your Canon camera, there are many qualities to take into consideration. Size, aperture, IS, and more are all vital components to the making of a great travel lens.

Below is a list of features to consider when looking for the best travel lens for Canon. Note that I’m going to glossing over a lot of photographic concepts here. I’ll try and keep things clear; otherwise, feel free to post any question regarding photography in the comment section below.

Size/Weight

Lenses come in all shapes and sizes from pint-sized pancakes to behemoth, tree-trunk-like tools. How big and heavy a lens thus influences how you carry and use it.

Larger lenses obviously take up more space and so leave less for other lenses or accessories. As you start packing more as well, the weight of your bag gets heavier and heavier. I personally have carried both heavy backpacks and shoulder bags and can say it’s fun for about 5 minutes.

If you have limited space in your camera bag or like lenses that happen to be larger, you’ll have to pick and choose your equipment wisely. Take note of how much a lens weighs and its dimensions and then think about how much you’re willing to carry.

If you’re going to be bringing a lot of equipment with you, be sure to invest in a good travel camera bag as well! You’ll need something spacious and secure to protect your equipment to the max. Read our article on the best travel camera bags for some suggestions!

Along with shutter speed and ISO, aperture is a key part of the exposure triangle , which must be considered if you want to take great photos. Though shutter speed and ISO fall within the realm of the camera, the aperture is directly controlled by the lens. How an aperture behaves directly influences what kind of photos you can take and can also lead to some pretty creative compositions.

A fast aperture – one that is less than or around f/2.8 – is almost always preferable. Though not always the case, a faster aperture is usually indicative of optical quality, It is also useful during certain photographic situations. Without going too deep into the mechanics, a faster aperture means that your camera can take in more light and, thus, be more suited for dimmer situations. Moral of the story: a smaller aperture number (meaning faster) is most often a good thing.

A quick aperture is not always necessary though. Lots of lenses with slower apertures can offer exceptional image quality e.g. the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4.0L IS USM. Besides, most lenses don’t even reach optimal sharpness until they’re stopped down to f/5.6 or f/8. Unless you really need a fast aperture for low-light performance or for creating bokeh, you may not need to spend the extra money.

Focal Length/Type

A lens’ focal length dictates its field of view , which, in turn, determines how large the compositional frame is. The wider the focal length, the wider the field and the more you can capture in a photo. In addition, depth is influenced as well – foregrounds and backgrounds appear closer when shot with a longer lens and further apart with a wider lens. Focal length is measured in millimeters e.g. 12mm, 50mm, 70-200mm.

Certain lenses with certain focal lengths are better for capturing certain scenes. Longer lenses, renowned for their shallow depth of field and isolating qualities, are great for portraits. Wider lenses, with their expansive fields of view, are great for interior shots when space is tight or for capturing big vistas.

Whether or not a lens covers a single focal length or many is something to consider as well. Prime lenses only cover one focal length but are usually sharper and less prone to optical abnormalities. Zoom lenses cover multiple focal lengths but can suffer from image softness, chromatic aberrations, and distortion. Higher quality zoom lenses suffer less from these issues but you’ll have to pay a pretty penny for them.

What type of photographer you are will determine what kind of focal length you find most useful. You’ll often find that certain lengths are more attractive to your style of shooting or that you favor a particular lens over others. Remember too that any lens can be useful if they’re used by a skilled set of hands. A good photographer can take beautiful landscape photos with a telephoto lens or create an alluring portrait using a super-wide angle.

Not every autofocusing system is created equal – some are lightning fast, utilizing state-of-the-art technology, while others are sluggish doofuses that can’t make heads or tails of a subject. How well an autofocus system behaves in a lens may or may not frustrate you depending on your photographic style.

Generally speaking, most lenses autofocus pretty well. Only in rare situations does a lens really suffer from poor autofocus and most of the time these are pretty much shunned.

Certain photographers, like sports or wildlife photographers, may need better than average autofocusing to keep up with their subjects. If you need an autofocus system for your style of shooting, be sure to see if your potential new lens is up to parr. Also know that camera sensors play an important part in autofocusing as well so, if you keep finding yourself unimpressed, it could be more than the lens.

Though autofocusing is currently the dominant trend in modern photographic equipment, lens that use manual focusing are still common. Of particular note, Rokinon/Samyang lenses are only manual focus, a decision made by the company to cut costs.

Manual lenses can still be useful in certain situations. Landscape and astrophotographers feel their limitations less, due to their subject matter, and may even enjoy their vintage-like feel, much like a musician might enjoy an old record.

Filter Thread

Each lens has a certain filter threading found at the front of the barrel, which is used to attach various (you guessed it) filters. These filters e.g. polarizers, NDs, UVs are used for both creative effects and sometimes additional protection.

There really isn’t such a thing as a proper filter threading. Most filter sizes have become standardized and there is almost always a full set of filters for each one. No matter your lens, there’s a filter that will fit it.

Filter sizes do play in part in costs though. If you have multiple lenses with multiple filter threadings, you may end up spending more money for more filters, many of which maybe perform in the same way. Buying the same filter twice just to accommodate different lenses is super annoying.

To avoid this issue, try investing in a single set of filters, preferably with a larger threading, and than use step-down rings. These handy accessories are adapters for your filters and will allow you to install larger filters on lenses with smaller threadings. Or think about investing in a slot-in filter system, which uses a screw-in adapter to hold a plate-like filter. Polarizer filters are not effective with slot-in filter systems.

Image Stabilization

Image stabilization or optical stabilization technology has become extremely commonplace in modern-day lenses. This tech is found in all sorts of lenses, from cheap pieces of shit to luxurious professional-grade glass. It is, at the end of the day, a very useful feature to have in your lenses as it can allow for some very crisp images.

Image stabilization (IS) works by compensating for shake caused by hand holding a camera. This shakiness is, unless you’re using a tripod, often unavoidable. Shakiness appears as blurring in images and so they are usually unusable (though some photographers have found a creative way to use shake). With image stabilization, handheld shooting becomes much easier as you have to worry less about steadying your hand.

Whether or not you need image stabilization is something to consider in choosing the best Canon travel lenses. If you’re a landscape photographer who constantly has their camera mounted on a tripod, image stabilization is pretty redundant. On the other hand, if you shoot subjects that require you to move often or you just like to have your camera ready in your hands, then IS would be useful.

Sensor Size

You’ll see two types of Canon lenses out there: EF and EF-S. This is because certain lenses are designed for certain sensor sizes. EF lenses are meant to be mounted on full frame Canon cameras while EF-S lenses are meant for APS-C or crop sensor Canon cameras.

Lenses are designed to be paired with their corresponding sensor sizes for reasons that are technically challenging and too time-consuming to explain right now. Just understand that a lens will most often function best with the sensor that it was designed for. Some lenses do get along quite well with different sensor sizes and you’ll have to study which ones these are. Keep this in mind when purchasing a travel camera lens.

You can mount full frame lenses on APS-C cameras (and not vice versa), again, for certain technical reasons. Optically, the lens should perform somewhat similar to its native sensor type – vignetting may increase but sharpness is often not affected. Of very important note, the focal range will be lengthened when mounting a full frame lens onto a crop sensor body – a 24mm EF lens mounted onto EF-S camera will behave more like a 35mm lens.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What Canon lens do professional photographers use?

Professional Photographers that use (full frame) Canon cameras often use the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM . If you’re shooting with a Canon EF-S, check out the Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8 .

Which lens is best for travel photography?

Travel photography is different than shooting professionally or shooting fixed set ups. Therefore, we recommend the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L IS USM , which is ideal for your travel adventure.

How can I protect my camera lens?

When storing your camera, make sure you have a high quality camera and lense bag that will prevent pressure points and scratching. Having an additional UV filter will add more protection as well.

How do I know what camera lense I need?

First, find out what kind of camera you have. There are all kinds lenses for different camera types. Then figure out what your main shooting style (travel, professional, landscape, etc) will be and choose the lense accordingly.

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So there you have them – the best travel lenses for Canon! We’ve covered 16 lenses – 8 for each of Canon’s mounts – and every one of them is unique. Each one has its own strengths and weaknesses and each quality needs to be taken into consideration when looking for the best Canon lenses for travel photography.

Consider what kind of photographer you are and what kind of lens(es) you need. Do you like to photograph wildlife or faraway subject? Then buy a telephoto lens like the Canon 70-200mm f/4.0 L USM. Maybe you like to shoot landscapes and want to try your hand at astrophotography? Invest in a fast, wide-angle prime like the Rokinon 20mm f/1.8 then!

Once you’ve realized what kind of travel photography you want practice, it’s just a matter of choosing the best Canon travel lens for yourself. Know that each one will be different and that each will dramatically affect the quality of your pictures. Lenses are, after all, the apparatus that creates the image in the first place.

So think carefully about which Canon travel lens is best for you. As one photographer once told me: “you don’t invest in an expensive camera; you invest in great glass.” Upon reaching a conclusion, just buy it! You’ll feel good knowing that you did your homework and bought the perfect lens for yourself.

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great article but surprised not to see 18-135 or 15-85 for EF-S.

I’d suggest the two Canon EF pancake lenses, the 40 and 24 F2.8s, for full frame and crop Canons respectively. Great, discrete, inexpensive and super light lenses.

nice article, thank you 🙂

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The best travel camera in 2024: compact and portable cameras to take anywhere

The best travel cameras are small, lightweight, easy to use and offer a range of features – here are the ones to look at

• The Quick List ↩

Best overall

• Best full frame
• Best budget
• Best hybrid
• Best for size
• Best waterproof
• Best action cam
• Best for 360º
• Best for vloggers
• How to choose
• How we test

The Quick List ↩ 1. Best overall 2. Best full frame 3. Best budget 4. Best hybrid 5. Best for size 6. Best waterproof 7. Best action cam 8. Best for 360º 9. Best for vloggers How to choose How we test

The best travel cameras have to do one crucial thing: be better than your phone. That means the best travel cameras need to combine compactness with image quality, advanced features with simple operation, and ideally the ability to share your holiday photos and vacation videos fast. 

Even though the best camera phones can produce great images, you just don't get the same quality as you would if shooting with one of the best point-and-shoots or best mirrorless cameras . Smartphones are restricted by smaller sensors offering lower still and video quality, reduced low light performance, and minimal control over depth of field (for those blurry backgrounds). 

We'll look at mirrorless cameras that offer better image quality and more versatility than compact systems but at the cost of increased size and weight. Compact cameras, perfect for keeping on you at all times, won't weigh you down, and are really simple to use – although they have smaller sensors and fixed lenses. And finally, action cameras that are robust cameras made for wild adventuring!

Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World, and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. He never misses an opportunity to travel, or an excuse to take photos while traveling, so is best placed to judge what are the best travel cameras for all sorts of different vacations and adventures.

The Quick List

Travel cameras should be small and light, but not lacking in features for amazing photos and video. The Fujifilm X100VI ticks all of those boxes, with a diminutive size, but 40MP images and 6.2K video. And does all this while looking great, with some stunning retro charm.

Read more below ↓

Despite aging a little, the Sony A7 III still offers some features that are competitive with new models like IBIS, auto-tracking, and 4K video. Best of all, the camera is incredibly well-priced, making it the best option for traveling without worrying too much about damaging expensive kit.

If you want a small camera that shoots great stills and video, and cost costs the earth the Panasonic Lumix G100D is the best budget option out there for travel. Although the G100D is only a slightly newer G100, which is much the same, but with a USB-C port and upgraded EVF.

The Fujifilm X-S20 is a camera for everyone, with great quality stills, but is set apart by its deceptively powerful video skills. This makes the X-S20 the perfect travel camera for any hybrid creator who is a versatile and lightweight camera, all at a price tag that won't break the bank. 

When picking the best travel camera, we're focusing on portability. If you want to fit a whole photographic kit – that's a camera and several lenses into a bag, then the dinky but mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best portable cameras around.

If you're planning on a coastal adventure then you need a camera that is fully waterproof and rugged enough to take on the most challenging adventures. This camera offers better stills than your average action cam, so if photos are your main priority  – the Tough TG-7 is for you.

View the full list ⇩

This is a camera that can withstand some serious adventuring, action cameras are made for extreme conditions, and the best of the bunch is the Osmo Action 4. The Osmo 4 offers an incredibly wide field of view, image stabilization, and waterproofing for action-packed vacations.

If you want to remember every little bit of your vacation, then you can't go wrong with a 360º camera to capture not what only is going on in front of you, but all around you. The Insta360 X3 is the best all-encompassing camera you can buy, best of all it is easy to slip into a pocket or bag for travel.

If you are looking for a small yet mighty all-in-one camera with quality video and audio made to go straight on social media or YouTube then the Sony ZV-E10 is the best choice. It does take decent pictures, but if you are looking for something more hybrid, check out the X-S20 above.

The best travel camera in 2024

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. Fujifilm X100VI

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a pocketable camera:  the Fujifilm X100VI is a very compact camera, the whole package of camera and lens are so small that you can easily slip this into a jacket or rucksack pocket. ✅ You want a camera that looks good:  The X100VI is easily one of the best-looking cameras you can buy. The stunning retro looks of old-school film cameras are matched with superb build quality.

❌ You want a range of lenses:  the lens is fixed on the X100VI, so you are stuck with the 23mm focal length, although its digital cropping modes give the illusion (but not performance) of more focal lengths ❌ You want a cheap travel camera:  the X100VI has a premium price tag, and there are options that produce a similar image quality, if you don't mind a different style of camera that is.

If you are looking for a camera for traveling, then one of the major things to look out for is something small and lightweight that can easily slip into a bag or a jacket pocket and won't be a drag to carry around for long periods – enter the Fujifilm X100VI .

The X100VI is a fixed-lens camera, which means that it has a single lens that can't be changed. The lens is 23mm, or equivalent to a 35mm length lens on on a full-frame camera, a perfect length for travel photography as it is wide enough to get in landscapes and street scenes, but narrow enough for portraits and family shots. While there are converters available for the X100V to change the length of the lens, I find these have an adverse effect on image quality. The X100VI does have a trick to crop images when taking them to give the illusion of additional focal lengths, although at a reduced size. 

The X100V packs in some lovely 40MP photos, and while not the most ideal camera for video, you can get 6.2K (cropped), 4K, or HD video with slow motion reaching 240 frames per second. There is also human, animal, bird, and vehicle autofocus tracking, so you can snap away with confidence that your shots will be in focus. Finally, image stabilization helps cut out hand jitters in low light or shooting video, for more stable footage.

And for those who want to share travel snaps as you go, you get access to Fujifilm 's awesome film simulations and custom recipes, which takes the work out of editing, and with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity and the Fujifilm X App, you can quickly share ready to post photos and video to social from your phone.

The X100VI's design will catch a few eyes while traveling. The camera is lovely to hold, made with premium materials, and with a wonderful hybrid optical viewfinder that shows either the real picture or how it looks through the sensor with a flick of a button. However, as a major downside for travel, the X100VI lens is not weather-sealed without an adapter – at an additional cost.

Speaking of cost, this premium camera comes at a premium price, with some similar tech available for less in other models. But for the build quality and features, I think it does a lot to justify its higher price, but if you want the best compact camera, there is nothing better than this.

Read our full Fujifilm X100VI review for more

• Back to the top ⇪

Best full frame on a budget

2. Sony A7 III

✅ You want full frame quality:  full frame cameras can produce more focus separation and are better in low light, the A7 III is the most affordable step into full frame. ✅ You want a camera to use outside of traveling:  the A7 III is a pro-level camera that is not just for travel, you can shoot brilliant photos all year round with a multitude of lenses available for different subjects.

❌ You don't want the expense of lenses:  the cost of lenses can add up, especially ones for full-frame cameras, if you want to keep costs low, choose a fixed lens camera or an option with smaller cheaper lenses. ❌ You want a small camera:  the A7 III isn't huge, but it also isn't small. With a lens attached, it is going to take up quite a bit of room in a bag, and won't be sliding in any pocket.

While the Sony A7 III might be the oldest Sony Alpha camera still being sold as new, even being replaced by a newer Sony A7 VI, it more than holds its own today. Any photographer looking for an excellent full-frame hybrid camera for traveling should seriously consider this camera as an option.

Why? Well, I don't think there is a better value full-frame camera out there, which when traveling can take some of the jeopardy out of damaging or losing your incredibly expensive kit.

It might be getting on a little, but the camera still has a very competitive 24.2MP back-illuminated image sensor, which delivers great tonal range and makes high ISO settings possible, which anyone who is shooting a lot in low light on their travels will really appreciate. A 5-axis image stabilization system also delivers less shake when shooting at night, or capturing video. 

And if you are also looking to get some video footage on your travels then the A7III has very capable 4K video, although has been surpassed by a few other models on this list which would be more suitable if video is a priority.

The A7III has a speedy and accurate 696-point AF system, and while not the latest algorithms, the A7 III also has some solid human face and eye tracking, so you can take reliably focused photos of your friends, family, or any interesting denizens you meet out on your travels. 

Whilst the A7III can be thrown a little off-balance with big pro lenses, Sony's lens range is extensive and there are many smaller primes to suit this camera perfectly for those who don't want to carry a lot while traveling. Or superzoom lenses like the Sony FE 24-240mm will empower you to capture everything from near to far.

Read our full Sony A7 III review

Best travel camera on a budget

3. Panasonic Lumix G100D

✅ You want an affordable camera:  the Lumix G100D is a great deal for the features it offers, and an affordable way to get great travel snaps. ✅ You want a range of small lenses:  there are a lot of Micro Four Thirds lenses, so there is something for every occasion, and best of all, they tend to be on the smaller side for easy travel.

❌ You want the very latest tech:  the G100D is a little on the older side and doesn't have Panasonic's latest autofocus, which puts it a little behind the competition. ❌ You want more serious creative video:  intended as a hybrid camera, there are lots of video-focused features, but the camera lacks IBIS and a headphone jack/USB-C found in rivals.

Sometimes, you just want to create quality images and video while you are traveling, beyond what your phone is capable of, but you also don't want to pay a small fortune for the privilege. The Panasonic Lumix G100D is the best camera you can get for traveling that offers all the quality features you will need but at an affordable price.

The G100D is a super-small, super-cute camera with a Micro Four Thirds sensor. It is still easy to capture high-quality video and stills with simple controls, menus, and its approachable button layout. The camera can be paired with numerous dinky Micro Four Thirds lenses too, especially small pancake lenses to keep the overall size down. Micro Four Thirds also has the benefit of doubling the focal length, so 100mm becomes 200mm, so you can pair the G100 camera with telephoto lenses for capturing far away subjects like wildlife without having to carry huge lenses.

A downside though is there is some compromise for the low price, and the G100D is not the most technically advanced camera on this list, and its autofocus uses Panasonic's cruder contrast-detect technology, which is a little slower than other cameras and is notorious for "pulsing" and "hunting" during video. 

Despite this, the G10S0 is also a perfect camera for vloggers, with an articulating screen and ready to share footage. But while there’s an inherent risk of dumbing things down too much when creating a camera for social media creatives, Panasonic has avoided that pitfall with the Lumix G100D, and this is a great camera if you're just as interested in vlogging as you are in travel photography. 

Read our full Panasonic Lumix G100D review

Best hybrid travel camera

4. Fujifilm X-S20

✅ You shoot video and photos:  the Fujifilm X-S20 is the best of both worlds, with great-looking photos and awesome video skills too! ✅ You want to balance price and features:  the X-S20 offers a lot for its price, and it is one of the best-value cameras around, you will struggle to find matching video specs at this price point.

❌ You don't really care about video:  there are other options that might suit photographers more than the X-S20 with higher megapixel counts. ❌ You might need weather resistance:  the X-S20 is not weather-sealed, so if you plan to get adventurous, a camera that can handle dust and water might be a better choice.

When I tested the Fujifilm X-S20 I was just so impressed at the amount of features that Fujifilm had managed to squeeze into its petite body – it's not just a great stills camera, it is also one of the best video cameras available, and the cherry on top, it is really well priced! For anyone looking for a hybrid camera to shoot a mix of photos and video, I think this is the best camera for any traveler right now.

Fujifilm chose not to update the X-Trans IV sensor from the X-S10, but this sensor despite its age still holds up very well today when it comes to stills. The X-S20 is also able to use Fujifilm's excellent film simulations and programmable film recipes to create ready-to-use images straight from the camera, which makes any regular social media posting that much easier.  The new X-Processor 5 also brings brand new subject recognition and tracking autofocus, making taking photos on the fly quicker and more reliable.

Despite its compact size, the X-S20 is a deceptively powerful video camera. The new processor combined with the modest resolution sensor means the X-S20 is capable of 6K video using the entire sensor (open-gate). The camera is also capable of numerous codecs and F-Log for getting in-depth with color grading. The subject recognition and tracking also carry through into videos and there are dedicated vlogging video features too.

Some might prefer the classic retro style like the X-T5 or X-T30 II, but with fewer manual dials, the X-S20 is a more user-friendly camera, with a more useful fully articulating screen than any of the X-T range. The camera is small, but handling is great with enough of a comfortable grip for long days, and the camera pairs really well with Fujifilm's small zoom and prime lenses, making traveling light with a kitted-out X-S20 a little easier. While the price is a little higher than the X-S10 that preceded it, I think the price bump is justified as this is one capable camera for traveling.

Read more: Fujifilm X-S20 review

Best travel camera for size

5. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

✅ You want a small system:  the whole OM Micro Four Thirds system is tiny, with small cameras and lenses, so you can take a lot more gear to cover more subjects. ✅ You want a good-looking camera:  with a cool vintage style based on Olympus's OM film cameras, the E-M10 IV looks as good as the footage it shoots.

❌ You shoot a lot in low light:  the Micro Four Thirds sensor in the E-M10 IV doesn't handle low light as well as larger sensors, not good for frequent nighttime shooters. ❌ You won't use the retro dials:  if you are looking for just fast auto controls then the dials on the top of the E-M10 IV will be largely redundant for your needs.

When picking the best travel camera, we're focusing on portability, and the dinky but mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best portable cameras around if you are looking for a whole system including lenses that can easily slip into a bag. The best Olympus lenses include positively tiny optics that can go a long way for travel photography, helping you keep your kit and weight size down. So if you are the type of carry-on-only travel photographer but with big photography ambitions then this is for you.

Not only does it have an incredibly lightweight body, but the camera will look great on your travels too, with a cool retro design that harks back to Olympus's long pedigree in film cameras. The camera has tactile dial-led controls for anyone who wants to get creative with manual photography, although don't let that fool you into thinking the camera is complicated, as there are lots of automatic modes and helpful features built into the camera.

The OM-D E-M10 Mark IV uses the smaller but still powerful Micro Four Thirds sensor. This has some slight disadvantages in terms of low-light capabilities, so if you like to go out a lot at night when you travel, then a larger sensor might be better for you. 

But Micro Four Thirds does have one big advantage, it effectively doubles the focal length of any lens mounted to the camera; so a 50mm will behave like a 100mm, so if you are about to head off on safari, then this could make all the difference to getting up close to wildlife. Its snappy burst shooting, its accurate autofocus, and its impressive 4K video will also all assist you with creating amazing content. It's a terrific all-around camera. 

Read our full Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review for more

Best waterproof compact travel camera

6. OM System Tough TG-7

✅ You want a rugged adventure camera:  the TG-7 can certainly withstand some serious adventuring with a rugged water/dust/freeze/drop-proof build. ✅ You want a photography-first adventure camera:  the TG-7 puts photography first and foremost, offering a better experience than smaller fiddly action cameras.

❌ You want to strap the camera to things:  while action cameras have numerous accessories to strap to your sports equipment, there is far less for the bigger TG-7. ❌ You only care about video:  if you are just looking for the best rugged video camera for travel, then action cameras have you covered (see below).

Following the acquisition of Olympus's camera division, the OM System TG-7 is essentially an update to the much-loved Olympus Tough TG-6 under a new brand name. Although that camera has long been the top-regarded travel compact for adventurers who are as invested in photos as video. Action cameras might be smaller and just as hardy, but can't compete with the TG-7 for photography experience.

The TG-7 is ready for any travel adventure and is water-proof, dust-proof, crush-proof, drop-proof, and freeze-proof, so whether your hiking, climbing, swimming, or otherwise take you to the hottest deserts to the coldest tundras, the camera should come out the other side unscathed.

The TG-7 might have a relatively conservative 12MP resolution, although this helps dramatically when it comes to low-light images, as each pixel is larger allowing it to capture more light. Why is this important? Well if you are shooting in darker underwater environments, in gloomy forests, or at night, then you will get higher-quality images. 

The Touch also has RAW images, so you can get even more creative control over the final edit of your images. The camera also has a pretty incredible macro mode as well if you find some small details on your travels that you have to capture.

While it might not be up to the same standard as the best action cameras for video (see below for that), the Tough can capture decent 4K video, and will get some perfectly serviceable footage for social and YouTube of your wild adventures!

Read our full OM System Tough TG-7 review

Best action camera for travel

7. DJI Osmo Action 4

✅ You want a camera that can keep up with your travel adventures:  the Osmo 4 is hardy enough for whatever conditions you throw at it, weather-sealed and fantastic stabilized footage. ✅ You want a tiny camera:  action cameras like the Osmo 4 are great as they are so small they are effortless to travel with.

❌ You want to shoot high quality photos:  the 12MP photos from the Osmo 4 can't compete with more dedicated cameras, and the wide angle lens needs lots of corrections. ❌ You need accessories:  the market for DJI accessories isn't as big as the more famous GoPro, so if you need niche or cheaper accessories, that might be the brand to choose.

For most adventurer-creators, the Osmo Action 4 is the perfect balance of quality and price. Stabilized 4K video looks great and the camera can take a lot – not just rough and tumble but temperature extremes and it's waterproof to 16m without a case. Best of all, it has a larger image sensor than any other camera on the list, so it is better in lower light, making it more flexible.

DJI did have an interesting experiment with modular design, now seemingly abandoned, with the Action 2, but they do retain powerful magnetic mounts which can even partially survive the heat of an oven (we tried accidentally – see our full review). 

Like the more famous competition, DJI has high-quality horizon balancing and image stabilization, which has improved on the Action 3. The resolution limit is 4K, but in practice, this is the ideal resolution for action (and the limit of almost all TVs). More useful is the 120fps capability (or 240fps at 1080P).

The fact that Action 4’s isn’t interwoven with subscription software is one we wholeheartedly appreciate, too, but GoPro seem to finally growing out of this.

Read our full DJI Osmo Action 4 review

Best 360º camera for travel

8. Insta360 X3

✅ You want to capture everything:  the Insta360 X3 can capture all that goes on around you, perfect for capturing immersive travel content. ✅ You want to travel light:  the Insta360 X3 is very small and lightweight, and won't trouble your carry-on bag limits.

❌ You want a versatile camera:  the Insta360 X3 is made for one thing, and that is great 360º footage, if you want to capture more, you might need to bring a second camera. ❌ You want artistic images:  the Insta360 X3 has big 72MP images but the small sensor means they aren't as creative as a bigger camera.

The new Insta360 X4 has just launched offering 8K video and an updated design, but I still think the X3 offers great features for a much better value, so it remains in this guide for now!

There are times when handling even an action camera's wide-angle lens becomes a problem, and that's where a 360-degree action camera can step in. With two back-to-back lenses and enough smarts to eliminate a selfie stick from the footage, this almost magic camera can capture an image from a point within reach looking any direction you see fit.

I tried it with the bike attachment – which holds the camera a little way in front of the bike, over the front wheel – and was amazed at the footage which makes it look like I'm cycling toward a perfectly controlled drone. Better still, by syncing with my phone I could draw GPS data and have it overlaid, in the form of a speedometer, by the Insta360 app before sharing.

The only real worry is how naked those glass lenses are when the camera is in use; the joy of re-positioning the camera angle after the fact can be hours of fun. 5.7K is good enough for sharing, but more resolution would help pro work.

Read our full Insta 360 X3 review for more details

Best for travel vloggers

9. Sony ZV-E10

✅ You want ready-to-share footage:  this Sony is made for capturing footage with minimal editing to get up on YouTube and social media straight away. ✅ You want excellent audio:  the ZV-E10 has built-in stereo microphones that capture some of the best audio possible on a camera without external mics.

❌ You are more interested in photos:  the ZV-E10 is not a bad photography camera, but its video focused build means other cameras are better for stills shooters. ❌ You want a viewfinder for framing:  if you love a viewfinder for framing shots, then the Sony A6400 is almost the same camera, but with an EVF. 

The ZV-E10 makes for an excellent traveler's camera and is one of the cheapest vlogging-focused cameras yet. Combined with its slim dimensions, and wide choice of lenses, this makes it a perfect choice for travelers who want to shoot a lot of video. 

The big selling point of the ZV-E10 over other cameras capable of similar video is that the ZV-E10 comes with sophisticated built-in mics and a clip-on windshield for noise reduction, making it much easier to get clean audio on your vlogs even outdoors – which works excellently. Sony has put its years of audio experience into this camera and it shows.

The ZV-E10's 4K UHD video is of excellent quality too, and as we've come to expect from Sony, the autofocus is best in class, whether shooting video or stills. The camera has tracking modes for easy autofocus and digital image stabilization that crops your footage slightly but attempts to iron out any shake, which works well except for in very heavy movement.

And a point worth mentioning is that, while the ZV-E10 may be optimized for vlogging, it's still a capable stills camera with a 24MP sensor, and 11fps burst shooting, so photographers needed worry about restricting themselves with it. 

However, if you are more keen on photography than video, cameras in the Sony a6xxx range (like the Sony a6400 ) offer almost the same specs, but with a viewfinder, but you do lose the built-in stereo mics. Making it a tough choice for a hybrid shooter that might want the best of both worlds. 

Read our full Sony ZV-E10 review

How to choose the right travel camera

These are five key things to look out for when choosing the right travel camera for your needs.

1) Image quality: Ask yourself how you will use any photos or videos you capture. If you only plan to share content online on social media then any of the above cameras will be suitable. If you plan to print your pictures, though, then mirrorless cameras with larger sensors and higher megapixel counts will produce better-quality results.

2) Focal range: What kind of range do you need for your traveling activities? Compact cameras can have impressive zoom ranges, but to achieve their tiny size they often lack quality compared to mirrorless cameras. For mirrorless cameras, what lenses are available? So-called standard zooms are a great option for all types of travel, but they can also be large and heavy. A wide-angle lens might be best for capturing cities and landscapes, or if you are going to see wildlife or a sporting event then a compact telephoto lens might be best.

3) Size and weight: If you're going on vacation then the last thing you want to take is a heavy kit – especially given things like baggage restrictions when traveling. With that in mind, both your camera and lens(es) need to be small and light. If you want something that can fit in your pocket, get a compact camera – but if you don't mind taking a bag, a mirrorless system with one or two lenses could be more versatile. 

4) Simplicity: Don't want to get bogged down with camera settings? Most modern cameras have a range of auto modes – especially compact cameras, which take away the stress. Advanced modes and complicated controls don't usually mix with spur-of-the-moment snaps, so decide what is important to you and pick your camera based on that.

5) Price: The cameras in our list have a range of prices, and we try to include cameras that suit every budget. The price of a camera usually reflects its capabilities, although all the options listed here will take great images and video – so try to strike the right balance between what you need in a camera and what you can afford.

Is it better to use phone or camera for travel?

We covered this a little bit at the start of the article, but the answer is that it is always better to use a camera for stills or video when possible. So the question really becomes, "Do your travel plans make using a camera possible?" Phones are so small and quick to use that they go where cameras are too bulky and slow to shoot. A great compromise is a compact camera – or the Olympus Tough TG-6 , which is a weather-proof camera that goes the places that you wouldn't dare to use your phone! 

Is a DSLR or mirrorless camera better for travel photography?

As a travel camera, mirrorless cameras are usually the better choice for most people. They are much small and lighter than DSLRs, and also usually have a selection of smaller and lighter lenses to match. This makes traveling easier as it takes up less space and weight in increasingly restricted carry-on bags. Mirrorless cameras also are generally newer than DSLRs and most likely have more modern technology, making photography and video easier to capture and of better quality.

What size camera lens is best for travel?

Again, this comes down to what your travel plans entail and what you plan to shoot. The kit lens that comes bundled with many cameras will cover the most commonly used focal ranges, so that's a good place to start (though kit lenses do not deliver the best image quality). We recommend checking out the best lenses for travel photography to see what's right for you.

How we test travel cameras

When we are reviewing cameras, we carefully think about what scenarios each camera could be used for. When considering which cameras would make ideal travel cameras, we judge each camera on how small and lightweight it is for easy packing and transport, as well as carrying for long periods of the day while out exploring. 

We also consider the technical capabilities of each camera, and how suitable they are specifically for travel photography scenarios from beach vacations to safaris, to city breaks. Finally, we consider the price of the cameras to select options that cover a range of budgets and requirements.

We use our real-world experience with each camera and our in-depth camera knowledge to determine a final selection of top cameras that we would recommend as the ideal camera traveling companions.

Want to find out how we test and review DSLR and mirrorless cameras? We trial cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and in carefully controlled lab conditions. Our lab tests will generally measure resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio, which gives us a benchmark by which to compare cameras. 

Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. Our compact camera evaluations are based on real-world testing alone.

For our real-world testing, our reviewers spend time with each camera, testing it in a variety of shooting situations and providing their qualitative thoughts on how the camera was to use and evaluating the images and video it produced. Here's an example of how we literally take a camera on vacation to evaluate it!

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Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.

• James Artaius Editor

Related articles

The 5 Best Sony Lenses for Travel Photography

Table of Contents

The viewfinder fills with the awe-inspiring sight of Machu Picchu emerging from the clouds below. I rapidly fire shots, adjusting settings and swapping lenses to capture the perfect image before the mist shifts and the scene changes once again. Having the right lenses for my Sony Alpha camera makes all the difference in seizing moments like this on my travels. After much trial and error, these 5 lenses now always accompany me on my photographic journeys. As an avid travel photographer constantly balancing gear against airline weight restrictions, I’ve become meticulous about selecting only the most versatile, portable and high-performing lenses. Through extensive personal use and research, I’ve identified the best Sony lenses for travel photography and landscape enthusiasts like myself.

In this guide, you’ll discover which lenses consistently capture the highest quality travel images for Sony mirrorless cameras. I evaluate key criteria like sharpness, bokeh, size/weight, aperture range and value. You’ll also gain insight into recent developments from Sony and third parties indicating the direction of travel-friendly lens technology.

Quick overview of the Sony lenses in this article

Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 gm : the landscape photographer’s dream.

Landscape photographers overwhelmingly praise the Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 GM as the number one e-mount lens for dynamic wide scenics. Its fast aperture excels in low light conditions, while providing tack-sharp images across the zoom range. It captures those expansive vista shots that social media eats up.

Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 OSS : The Versatile All-Rounder

For standard zoom needs, the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 OSS produces amazing quality for its reasonable price and weight. Its versatility as a walkaround lens suited for landscapes, portraits and street scenes makes it a staple in every travel photographer’s kit.

Sony E 16mm f/2.8 Pancake : The Discreet Street Specialist

Prime lenses like the diminutive Sony E 16mm f/2.8 pancake offer discreet and ultra-portable options perfect for street photography . Its tiny size means high quality images with no extra weight or bulk.

Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS : The Detail Master

For intimate detail shots, the Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS serves up life-sized close-ups of local cuisine, artifacts and small wildlife encountered on one’s journeys.

Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G : The Astrophotography Ace

And for nights spent chasing the Aurora Borealis or capturing the Milky Way, the Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 ‘s compact design and bright aperture excels at astrophotography from anywhere on the planet.

By the end of this guide filled with sample images and lens comparisons, you’ll have the knowledge to select an ideal travel lens kit that fits your camera, photography objectives and wanderlust adventures.

A more in-depth look at these extraordinary Sony lenses

Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 gm.

If you’re looking to capture expansive scenic vistas and sweeping landscapes on your travels, then the Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 GM lens should be at the top of your gear list. Over 80% of travel photographers recently surveyed by Popular Photography magazine rated this remarkable wide-angle as the number one Sony lens for capturing epic landscape and architectural photos.

After testing it extensively on trips everywhere from the soaring peaks of Patagonia to the ancient streets of Rome, I can confirm that the 16-35mm GM absolutely delivers. Here’s why it’s so special:

Unrivaled Image Quality

Sony pulled out all the stops engineering this flagship lens, which features an advanced optical design with specialized XA elements to virtually eliminate chromatic aberration and unwanted flare. The result? Tack sharp images from edge to edge, even when shooting directly into the sun. Vivid colors, microcontrast and spectacular bokeh further contribute to images so lifelike you’ll feel transported back to the iconic places you photograph.

Perfect Focal Range

Spanning an ultra-wide 16-35mm range, this lens captures the world exactly as your eyes see it – with a sweeping cinematic perspective. 16mm gets everything in the frame from tight spaces like castle corridors to the entirety of vast mountain landscapes. The zoom range lets you effortlessly compose the perfect shot without having to switch primes. You’ll capture epic scenics, dazzling interiors and creatively exaggerated perspectives that make travel photography exciting.

Built Like A Tank

While not as portable as some primes, the 16-35mm GM still travels well and can withstand tough conditions. Its magnesium alloy body is precisely engineered for rugged reliability to handle the bumps and jolts of globetrotting. The lens is also weather sealed to resist dust and moisture when shooting seascapes or in light rain. Its fluorine coating further repels fingerprints and smudges to keep shots spotless.

Crystal Clear Close-Ups

A standout feature of this lens is its minimum focusing distance of just 9.5 inches for crystal clear close-up shots. Capture intimate detail of local crafts, food at markets or exotic flora and fauna on hikes. Combine the close focus with selective focus at f/2.8 and you can shoot frame-filling portraits against stunning backdrops.

As Sony’s top wide-angle zoom, the 16-35mm f/2.8 GM delivers professional quality optics designed for travel photography. While carrying a premium price tag, its versatility, rugged build and sheer image quality make it a sound investment for landscape shooters.

Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 OSS

If you’re looking for a great all-around travel lens, look no further than the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 OSS. This handy mid-range zoom lens has become a staple for many Sony shooters due to its versatility, image quality, and reasonable size and weight.

Compact Yet Capable

Weighing in at only 1.5 pounds, the 24-105mm f/4 OSS offers a useful focal range while still remaining fairly compact and lightweight. As SonyAlphaLab puts it, this lens “packs a punch without breaking your back.” Compared to similar Canon and Nikon lenses , Sony’s option shaves off noticeable weight – almost 25% less heft to lug around ancient ruins or down narrow alleyways. That’s a big perk for globe-trotting photographers.

Crisp Optics

Don’t let the lighter weight fool you – this lens captures impressively sharp, vivid images. The advanced optical design incorporates 4 aspherical elements and 3 ED glass elements to effectively minimize chromatic and spherical aberration. This results in excellent edge-to-edge image quality throughout the zoom range. Whether shooting sweeping scenic vistas or candid street photography, the 24-105mm f/4 OSS delivers crisp, color-accurate results.

A Low Light Option

The fast f/4 constant aperture gives you extra flexibility for low light situations. While not as bright as some primes, f/4 allows you to shoot handheld even in fading evening light. This expands your creative possibilities to capture night markets, sunsets, or passing street scenes after dark. Compared to variable aperture zooms, the 24-105mm f/4 OSS makes low light, motion-free photography much more achievable.

OSS: Built-in Stabilization

Sony’s advanced optical steady shot (OSS) image stabilization is also a huge asset for avoiding blurry images when shooting on the go. With a 4.5 stop shutter speed advantage, OSS enables sharp handheld shots even with slower shutter speeds. This allows you to leave the tripod behind more often without sacrificing sharpness. For travel scenarios where you need to react quickly to get the shot, OSS helps ensure tack sharp images to better convey the scene.

The Sweet Spot for Travel

If you want one lens to handle everything from landscapes to details shots while exploring, the 24-105mm f/4 OSS is it. Its versatility, lighter weight, advanced optics and stabilization make this a go-to choice. For Sony shooters investing in full frame over APS-C , this could be the first lens you buy or the only zoom you need. It hits a sweet spot for travel photography in terms of convenience and performance.

Sony E 16mm f/2.8 Pancake Lens

When traveling light is a priority, the wonderfully compact Sony E 16mm f/2.8 Pancake Lens should be strongly considered. Weighing only 2.4 oz (69g) and measuring a mere 0.75 inches thick, this lens epitomizes portability without compromising quality.

I’ve found the 16mm focal length (24mm in 35mm format) to be extremely versatile for walking city streets and capturing daily life. The wide angle gives you that sweeping vista when taking in scenic urban views, while also lending itself nicely to contextual environmental portraits. F/2.8 may not be the fastest aperture, but for daytime travel shooting it’s perfectly adequate.

The compact form factor means the 16mm pancake can fit in even the smallest camera bag or jacket pocket. I barely notice it’s there most of the time. This allows you to travel unencumbered while always having a quality lens on hand to freeze those fleeting travel moments.

Some key advantages of the Sony 16mm f/2.8 lens:

• Weighs only 69 grams – ideal for frequent travelers
• 24mm equivalent focal length suits environmental shots
• Sharp from edge to edge even when shooting wide open
• Smooth manual focus ring with distance markings
• Metal lens mount adds durability
• A common concern is the lack of image stabilization, but at this focal length hand-holding down to 1/30 second is not an issue. Others note occasional vignetting and softness on the far corners when shooting at f/2.8, but stopping down to f/5.6 or f/8 solves this while retaining plenty of foreground/background separation.

At an affordable price, the tiny 16mm f/2.8 offers tremendous value as a lightweight prime lens perfect for documentary-style travel shooting on the go. Paired with a compact Sony mirrorless body, it’s my top pick for a versatile yet portable prime lens kit. Concert goers, street photographers, world travelers – don’t leave home without it!

Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS

As travelers, we often find ourselves captivated by the small intricacies that tell the stories of the places we visit. From the flakes of a masterfully crusted pastry to the weathered textures of an ancient artifact, details reveal so much character. This is where the Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS lens shines – delivering life-sized 1:1 magnification for creative close-ups that spotlight the subtle beauty in tiny subjects.

Weighing just 602 grams, the 90mm Macro packs an impressive punch into a portable package. The bright f/2.8 maximum aperture gives you that defocused background bokeh effect when isolating details up close. And built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization lets you capture handheld macro shots as low as 0.5 seconds without blur from camera shake. No more lugging around a hefty tripod!

When it comes to image quality, this lens renders exquisite detail and sharpness even at its widest aperture settings. As one reviewer described it: “Razor sharp from edge to edge, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8.” The advanced optical design incorporates an XD linear motor for fast, precise autofocus – crucial for tracking jittery bugs and creatures.

So whether it’s immortalizing the ornate patterns of a Buddhist temple door or freezing the flittering wings of a rainforest butterfly in mid-air, the 90mm Macro lets your photography zero in on the hidden wonders that surround you. Before leaving for your trip, just slip this slender lens into your camera bag. When inspiration sparks, pull it out and discover an entirely new perspective to fall in love with.

Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G Prime Lens

As a travel photographer, you never know when you’ll have the opportunity to photograph a clear night sky filled with glittering stars. That’s why the Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G prime lens is such a versatile option for your camera bag. Weighing just 373 grams, this compact prime lens offers a super-fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, making it a top choice for astrophotography and capturing the magical glow of the Northern Lights or Milky Way galaxy during your travels.

A lightweight travel companion

Unlike bulkier alternatives such as the Sigma 20mm f/1.4, Sony’s native 20mm f/1.8 G lens provides a brighter maximum aperture in a body that is nearly 80% lighter. The fast f/1.8 aperture allows you to use faster shutter speeds to capture those fleeting moments of celestial activity before conditions change. Comparatively, the smaller physical size of just 3.07 x 3.07 inches is easier to pack and carry over long distances.

An astrophotographer’s dream

As you venture to dark sky preserves or plan photography excursions to see majestic Auroras in places like Iceland or Alaska, the 20mm focal length delivers an ultra-wide field of view . This allows you to capture expansive nightscapes filled with glittering stars trailing overhead. The advanced optical design incorporates extra-low dispersion elements to minimize chromatic aberration and color fringing when shooting wide open at f/1.8. The lens also has a dust and moisture-resistant construction, giving you the confidence to photograph in harsher environments.

While the Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G does not have built-in optical stabilization, it pairs well with Sony mirrorless cameras featuring in-body image stabilization, enabling sharp images even with longer exposures. This makes it easier to achieve those artistic shots of star trails or the Milky Way’s cosmic core. The fast autofocus is also beneficial for quickly adjusting to subjects in low light.

So if your travel plans involve capturing more nocturnal photography or the magic of nature under moonlit skies, then the Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens is perfectly suited to help you achieve this with its compact size, bright maximum aperture, and superb optical quality. Pair it with a Sony a7 IV or a7R IV, and you have a lightweight kit ready to produce stunning astrophotography images from your travels near and far.

Conclusion: The Best Sony Lenses for Travel Photography

After reviewing the top recommendations, it’s clear that Sony offers an impressive range of lenses well-suited for travel photography. From wide-angle zooms perfect for capturing expansive landscapes to compact primes ideal for discreet street scenes, Sony has travel shooters covered.

The Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 GM emerged as our number one choice for its best-in-class image quality, fast aperture, and ultra-wide perspective, making it easy to photograph sweeping vistas that convey the grandeur of a destination. Weighing just 1.5 lbs, it’s light enough for prolonged handheld shooting. Meanwhile, the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 OSS came in as our top mid-range zoom pick due to its versatile focal range, lighter weight, and built-in stabilization for tack-sharp images on the go.

For travel photographers focused on minimizing size and weight, the diminutive Sony E 16mm f/2.8 pancake prime lens allows you to capture high-quality images without the burden. The wonderfully compact Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G prime entices with its combination of portability, speed, and performance, proving an ideal option for astro shots on clear nights from unique locales.

Rounding out the recommendations, the Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS makes it easy to showcase intricate cultural details other lenses would miss. So whether it’s flavorful street food, ornate tiles, or the wings of a butterfly, this specialized optic helps reveal hidden beauty.

Looking forward

In the future, Sony’s lens offerings will likely continue improving to meet demands from globe-trotting photographers for quality, compactness and capability. Excitingly, third parties like Zeiss already supplement Sony’s range with well-regarded primes like the Batis 25mm f/2 and 85mm f/1.8.

So if you are looking to travel freer and return with captivating, creative compositions, be sure to consider one of our top 5 Sony lenses recommendations to take your photography to the next level on your journeys. Find out more about necessary filters , hoods, and carrying cases to protect your investment in our accessories guide.

And if you have any personal favorites to use while traveling with Sony cameras, please share your experiences in the comments below! Bon voyage and happy shooting!

I’m a professional travel photographer, and I’ve been living the digital nomad lifestyle since 2016. I make money by working on client assignments, selling stock photography and helping other photographers by sharing my experiences on this website. I move around at my own pace (I hate fast-paced travel) and like to spend a few months getting to know each place I base myself in.

My writing and photos have been featured on industry leading websites such as Digital Photography School , Atlas Obscura and the world’s leading underwater photography resource The Underwater Photography Guide . I authored an eBook called “ Breaking Into Travel Photography: The complete guide to carving out a career in travel photography ” that has been published on Amazon. My stock images have also appeared in ads promoting destinations and companies that sometimes has been a surprise, even to me. But I guess that’s the nature of stock photography, you never know who will license them!

I’m always happy to connect, so feel free to reach out!

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9 Best Nikon Lenses for Travel Photography in 2024

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Finding the best Nikon lenses for travel photography is the best way to prepare yourself for your next adventure.

Our guide highlights the nine best Nikon lenses for mirrorless and DSLR cameras, ensuring you capture every moment perfectly. We’ve carefully selected lenses that offer both quality and convenience for travelers.

Our top picks include the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S for its lightweight design and sharp images, and the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G for its compact size and low-light performance. But if these are not the lenses you’re looking for, we have seven more incredible Z-mount and F-mount Nikon lenses for travel.

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What Is the Best Nikon Z Lens for Travel Photography?

When selection best Nikon Z lens for travel photography, you need to consider weight, versatility, and optical performance. These Z-mount lenses offer a balance of portability, range, and image quality, making them ideal for capturing diverse travel scenes, from bustling streets to serene landscapes.

• Exceptional sharpness, even at wide apertures
• Fast, accurate autofocus system
• Durable, weather-sealed construction
• Pleasing bokeh for portrait work
• Versatile for street and everyday photography

• Compact, lightweight design for easy travel
• Versatile zoom range for diverse photography needs
• Quick, silent autofocus perfect for video recording
• Customizable control ring for intuitive adjustments
• Effective in-body stabilization compatibility

• Constant f/4 aperture for consistent exposure control
• Professional-grade build, weather-sealed for durability
• Exceptional sharpness across zoom range
• Dual stepping motors for fast, silent autofocus
• Versatile 5x zoom for landscape to portrait photography

• Broad 18-140mm zoom range for versatility
• Vibration Reduction for sharp, stable shots
• Lightweight, travel-friendly design
• Fast, precise autofocus mechanism
• Great for both wide landscapes and detailed portraits

Our Favorite Nikon Z Lenses for Travel Photography

Let’s take a closer look at our favorite Nikon Z lenses. From prime lenses that excel in low light to versatile zooms perfect for capturing everything on your travels, there’s a Nikon travel lens here for every globe-trotting photographer.

1. Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S is the perfect prime lens for travel photography. Prime lenses might not be as versatile as zooms, but the 50mm focal length gives you plenty of shooting options. You can shoot anything from landscapes to portraits. 

Its optical construction includes two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and two aspherical elements, reducing chromatic aberrations and ensuring edge-to-edge sharpness. This makes it great for capturing detailed landscapes and vibrant street scenes.

Its f/1.8 aperture is excellent for low light conditions, giving you seriously good exposure control. It allows you to use faster shutter speeds to avoid motion blur. And it allows you to create a beautiful bokeh effect that isolate subjects in busy environments.

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S does not have built-in image stabilization, relying on the camera’s in-body stabilization. This works well in most scenarios, but in extremely low light, photographers might need to increase ISO or use their travel tripod .

A durable build that includes weather sealing adds to the lens’s travel credentials, proving that the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S is the best Nikon lens for travel photography.

2. Nikon Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3

The Nikon Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 is a compact zoom lens that’s great for travel photography. It covers a wide to standard focal range, making it useful for a variety of shots, including landscapes and portraits. Its light build means it won’t weigh you down on long days of exploring.

However, its variable aperture of f/4 to f/6.3 might not be the best in low light. This lens doesn’t have its own image stabilization. But when used with Nikon Z cameras with in-body stabilization, it still produces sharp images in most situations.

It’s surprisingly sharp for a lens in this price range. Imperfections like chromatic aberrations are kept to a minimum thanks to three aspherical and two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements. 

With a minimum focusing distance of 0.35 meters, it allows for detailed close-ups, adding to its versatility. The autofocus is quick and quiet, which is perfect for capturing fleeting moments without drawing attention.

The Nikon Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 is a great option for travelers looking for a light, versatile lens. It’s a popular choice with vloggers, too. It’s a good choice if you also want to capture some travel footage. 

3. Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S is a versatile zoom lens perfect for travel photography. Its wide focal range allows photographers to capture everything. You can shoot landscapes, portraits, and close-ups with this one lens. This flexibility is key in vibrant travel locations.

The constant f/4 aperture provides a good balance of light intake and depth of field control. It isn’t the fastest of maximum apertures. But it is constant throughout the zoom range, meaning you don’t lose any stops as you zoom in.

It’s relatively light considering the zoom range. And it’s an easy fit for any travel camera backpack . Its build is sturdy, with weather sealing that protects it in different weather conditions. This durability is essential for travel photographers who often face unpredictable weather.

The lens impresses with sharp images and minimal distortion. The crisp picture quality is due to its high-quality glass and coatings that reduce flare and chromatic aberrations.

The autofocus is quick and reliable. And the barrel has a custom control ring, giving you more hands-on control. You can use it to control ISO, aperture, or many other settings. 

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S is a great choice for travel photographers looking for a single-lens solution. Its combination of range, image quality, and build makes it a valuable companion for capturing any journey.

4. Nikon DX Z 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR

The Nikon DX Z 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR is the best travel lens for Nikon APS-C mirrorless cameras. Its broad focal range covers most shooting scenarios, so you don’t have to travel with multiple lenses. This makes it a practical choice for photographers looking to travel light.

The lens delivers good sharpness and controls aberrations well, thanks to its ED glass elements. And while it may not offer the low-light capabilities of other lenses, its VR system compensates by allowing for slower shutter speeds without a loss in image quality.

Weighing just 312g, it’s notably lightweight and compact. Despite its plastic construction, it includes weather-sealing features, offering some protection against the elements. This combination of portability and durability is key for travel photography, where conditions can vary.

The Nikon DX Z 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR is a good option for those seeking a single, versatile lens for travel. It offers a balance between performance, convenience, and portability. And it’s an affordable option for your Nikon APS-C mirrorless camera.

What is the Best Nikon F Lens for Travel Photography?

In this section, we dive into the best Nikon F lenses for travel photography. Selected for their balance of portability, image quality, and versatility, these lenses cater to a variety of shooting conditions.

From prime lenses offering exceptional low-light performance to zoom lenses that cover a broad focal range, each has been chosen to enhance your travel photography experience without the bulk. We’ve made it easy to find a travel lens for your Nikon DSLR camera.

• Exceptional low-light performance with f/1.8 aperture
• Ideal for portraits with natural perspective
• Compact and lightweight for travel convenience
• Fast, accurate autofocus for sharp images
• Produces beautiful bokeh for professional-looking photos

• Wide f/1.8 aperture enhances low-light shooting
• Versatile for street and environmental portraits
• Lightweight design, perfect for on-the-go photography
• Superior sharpness and color accuracy
• Quick, silent autofocus for discreet shooting scenarios

• Vibration Reduction for sharp images in low light
• Quick, silent autofocus for capturing fleeting moments
• Durable build with dust and moisture resistance
• Excellent sharpness and color correction across zoom range

• Constant f/4 aperture across entire zoom range
• 5x zoom versatility for wide to telephoto
• Effective Vibration Reduction for stable handheld shots
• Robust build with weather-sealing for durability
• Excellent optical performance with minimal aberrations

• Wide focal range for versatile shooting options
• Built-in Vibration Reduction for steady shots
• Compact and lightweight, ideal for travel
• Fast and silent autofocus mechanism
• Excellent value for a broad zoom lens

Our Favorite Nikon F Lenses for Travel Photography

Now we take closer look at our favorite Nikon Z lenses. Whether you’re capturing bustling city streets or serene landscapes, there’s a Nikon F lens for you. With a section of primes and zooms, we have all the best options for your Nikon DSLR.

1. Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G

The Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G is the best place to start with travel lenses if you have a Nikon DSLR. Its 50mm focal length offers a natural perspective, ideal for capturing everything from street scenes to portraits.

However, its fixed focal length limits versatility compared to zoom lenses like the Nikon AF-S 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR , which can cover wide angles to short telephoto shots without changing lenses.

With an aperture of f/1.8, this lens excels in low light, allowing photographers to shoot in a variety of lighting conditions without increasing ISO too much. This wide aperture also helps achieve a shallow depth of field, isolating subjects from the background beautifully.

It does lack built-in image stabilization. And most Nikon DSLRs don’t have sensor-shift stabilization either. But stabilization isn’t necessary with a standard focal length and such a fast max aperture. 

Thanks to its aspherical element, the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G delivers sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration. Its Silent Wave Motor (SWM) autofocus is quick and accurate, capturing fleeting moments with ease. As the name suggests, it’s also silent in operation, helping you keep a low profile.

The optical quality and portability make the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G a top choice for travel photographers. It’s a must-have lens for any traveler with a Nikon camera.

2. Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G ED

The Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G ED is another exceptional prime lens for travel photography. Its 35mm focal length gives you a wider field of view than the 50mm lens. This allows you to capture more in tight spaces. And it allows you to include more architectural features in your exterior images. 

With an f/1.8 aperture, this lens works well in low light, allowing for crisp images with ISO settings. It also gives you excellent depth of field control, helping you produce a blurred background in portraits or close-ups. 

This lens is quick to focus, catching fast moments with ease. It’s also sharp across the frame. The ED elements ensure high-quality images with no distortion or lens flare.

The Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G ED is a brilliant prime that’s ideal for travelers looking for a wider viewing angle. It’s compact enough for any travel camera backpack. And the price is more than reasonable for a lens of this standard. 

3. Nikon AF-S 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR

The Nikon AF-S 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR is a versatile zoom lens travel photographers will love. Its focal length covers wide landscapes to intimate portraits, making it a single-lens solution for many.

Thanks to its ED glass and aspherical elements, the lens offers good sharpness and controls chromatic aberration effectively. While it shows some distortion and vignetting at extreme settings, these flaws are barely visible and easily fixed in post-processing.

Its variable aperture is not the best in very low light. You are limited to a max aperture of f/4.5 at 85mm, which isn’t ideal. But the lens does have built-in stabilization. This gives you four stops of exposure compensation, allowing you to shoot with slower shutter speeds. 

The lens is relatively light and compact, easing the burden during long days of exploration. You’ll have no problem stowing it in your camera backpack.

For those looking for a solid mix of versatility, image quality, and portability, the Nikon AF-S 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR is a very useful choice for travel photography.

4. Nikon AF-S 24-120mm f/4G IF-ED VR

The Nikon AF-S 24-120mm f/4G IF-ED VR offers a broad zoom range, making it a versatile pick for travel photographers.

The lens includes elements that minimize aberrations and ensure clear and vibrant images. The inclusion of two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and three aspherical elements helps maintain image quality across its zoom range. While some distortion and vignetting occur at extreme settings, these are manageable in post-processing.

A Nano Crystal Coating on the glass improves light transmission and reduces lens flare and ghosting. 

Its constant f/4 aperture balances light intake and depth of field control across the entire zoom range. This feature, combined with the lens’s Vibration Reduction (VR), helps you capture sharp images in varied lighting conditions.

However, its weight might be a consideration for those who prefer lighter gear when traveling. The build quality is excellent, and weather-sealing makes it safe for outdoor use. Some will consider the extra weight worthwhile.

This lens is a good option for those seeking a single, adaptable lens for a range of subjects. The Nikon AF-S 24-120mm f/4G IF-ED VR is a versatile lens that delivers stunning images. 

5. Nikon AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

The Nikon AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is the best travel lens for Nikon APS-C DSLRs. It’s a versatile zoom lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths, making it ideal for travel photography. Its ability to go from wide-angle to telephoto without changing lenses is a big advantage when traveling. 

The lens offers good sharpness in the center, with only the faintest softness at the edges when wide open. Thankfully, the lens has ED elements to keep major problems like chromatic aberration at bay. A Super Integrated Coating (SIC) also reduces glare for better image quality.

A variable maximum aperture is never ideal. And with only an f/5.6 at 105mm, it does present limitations. However, the built-in stabilization helps remedy this problem. It gives you an additional three stops of exposure compensation.

The lens is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for long periods.

For those looking for an affordable, all-in-one lens for Nikon DX-format cameras, the Nikon AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a practical choice. It balances versatility, image quality, and convenience in one affordable package.

Conclusion: The Best Nikon Lenses for Travel Photography

Choosing the best Nikon Lenses for Travel Photography is a sure-fire way to enhance your travel experience. The article provided a comprehensive guide on the best Nikon lenses, focusing on their portability, optical performance, and versatility.

It highlighted the importance of selecting lenses that offer a balance between weight and image quality, ensuring photographers can capture stunning images without being weighed down.

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S and Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G stand out for their exceptional clarity and lightweight design. The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S gives you sharp images and a durable build. And the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G is perfect for its low-light performance and compact size.

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Take Your Best Ever Photos on Vacation: The Essential Gear You Need

From cameras and filters to bags and tripods, this is the gear you should take for pro-standard travel photos.

• Shortlisted for British Photography Awards 2022, Commended in Landscape Photographer of the Year 2022

Vacations can provide amazing opportunities for gorgeous travel photos, whether you're jumping on a jet to a tropical island, hiking into the mountains or spending a long weekend away in your local countryside. And with powerful cameras stuffed into phones like the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the Galaxy S24 Ultra , along with a plethora of  amazing mirrorless cameras from the likes of Canon, Sony and Fujifilm, getting great images doesn't mean hauling a huge kit bag with you. 

I've been a professional photographer for over a decade and have traveled the world taking photos. Here, I'll take you through the essential gear you need to bring with you on your trip. I'll also recommend some extras to consider if you want to return home with creative pieces of art, rather than just holiday snaps. 

Read more:   Take Pro Travel Photos This Summer With These Easy Tips

Choose the right camera

While you're unlikely going to buy an entirely new camera system just for an upcoming trip, if you're in the market already for a new camera then an imminent vacation is a great excuse to invest. While traveling with a camera used to mean hauling a bulky DSLR in your backpack everywhere you go, modern mirrorless cameras are typically much smaller and lighter, making them superb for traveling. I took just my Canon R5 and a small, lightweight 50mm f1.8 lens on a three-week trip to Sicily and loved the shots I got from this compact setup.

The R5 doesn't come cheap, nor is it the smallest camera around, but it offers stunning image quality from its full-frame sensor, amazing video skills and has pro features like in-body image stabilization. Want something a bit smaller? Look towards a micro four thirds camera like the Fujifilm X-S10 or the fixed-lens X100VI. Check out my guide to the best cameras if you want inspiration on which model to go for. 

Keeping your lens choices to a minimum will help reduce the weight. A standard zoom like a 24-70mm gives a great range for capturing wide, sweeping vistas, while providing enough zoom to get closer up on your subjects. I'd also recommend packing a small prime lens (like the 50mm f1.8) as these tend to be lightweight and compact enough to always have in your bag or slung around your shoulder for whenever inspiration strikes.

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But maybe you don't need a camera at all -- today's top phones can take amazing images and can shoot in raw format allowing for the same sort of editing you'd typically do with images from regular cameras. The iPhone 15 Pro Max takes gorgeous images -- especially using Apple's ProRaw format -- and its multiple rear lenses give creative shooting options for whatever scene you find yourself in front of. 

Canon's EOS RP offers full-frame quality but in a very compact size, particularly when paired with the tiny 50mm f1.8 lens.

The best travel tripod

A tripod certainly isn't essential for all travel photography, but when the light fades and you need to slow the shutter speed to several seconds to get a good exposure, you'll need one to secure your camera. You'll definitely need a tripod if you want to nail those nighttime shots overlooking a gorgeous bay, capture the stars above those snowcapped mountains, or pull off those artful long exposures of waterfalls.

By using a sturdy tripod, I was able to slow the shutter speed right down to capture the motion of the water and clouds over the Forth Bridge.

Again, size matters and you should look for a compact, travel tripod that can easily fit in your backpack -- or attach to the outside of it. Modern materials like carbon fiber will keep the weight down, but they also tend to be more expensive, so you'll need to decide how much you're willing to shell out. 

As its name suggests, the Peak Design travel tripod is a great tripod for traveling, thanks to its small size when folded down and its light weight. I've done all-day hikes with this strapped to my back and barely noticed its presence -- something I can't say for most tripods. Make sure to check out my full roundup of the  best tripods you can buy . Or, if weight is really an issue, you can even try using your own DIY tripod .

A proper adventure backpack

A dedicated photo bag should be high on your list. After all, you don't want your fancy new gear getting knocked around and breaking, do you? A good bag will have compartments to keep your camera safe and secure, but will also let you access it quickly. It's important, too, to find one that also has plenty of space to keep other items you'll need while out and about.

If you're going to be out with it all day, I recommend a backpack with two shoulder straps, rather than a single-strap messenger bag. It'll spread that weight over both your shoulders and keep you comfortable longer. Look for things like side-access zips, so you can quickly get your camera out when inspiration strikes; plenty of additional pockets for batteries and snacks; weather-resistant materials; and mounting points to help carry your tripod. 

I've done a lot of the hard work for you in rounding up my top photography backpacks . There are options for all kinds of photography, from short city breaks to multiday hikes with lots of gear. Have a read through that list, and make sure that what you're taking is suitable for where you're going.

Always keeping your camera handy means you're ever ready to shoot when you see a good opportunity.

The important extras

The list above is really the essential stuff you'll need to take with you. How much more you bring will depend on how seriously you take your photography and the sort of images you hope to take. Those of you going on wildlife safaris, for example, will benefit from packing a big telephoto zoom lens. Always consider having multiple spare batteries and a charger, as even the best cameras will tend to give you only a day of photos. There's nothing worse than getting to a beautiful afternoon destination only to find you exhausted your power in the morning. Keeping a spare in your bag will let you swap it out and keep on shooting into the evening.

Read more: Best Accessories for Photographers

The same goes for storage. It's easy to take hundreds of raw images a day in a beautiful location and all those shots can quickly fill up your card. Thankfully, SD cards are pretty cheap these days, so it's worth buying a few 64GB or 128GB cards to keep with you. 

Then there's the wide array of photographic filters that may help you get certain shots. A circular polarizer can be used to help make blue skies more vivid, or reduce the reflection on water, while a neutral density filter darkens the image, allowing you to use long exposures to blur the motion of water, cars or people. 

By using a neutral density filter, I was able to blur the motion of the water until it became a smooth and silky surface.

If you want to shoot video on your travels, you may need additional equipment, such as microphones, higher-capacity, faster storage cards and perhaps even video tripods or gimbals for smoother, professional-looking footage. Check out my guide to the  best accessories for video production  for more info. 

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Best Z full frame travel camera

I own a Z8 and love it but it is big and heavy. With Nikon's May sale I've been looking at either a Z6ii or Z7ii for a light weight travel body. They are both the same size and weight. I'm leaning toward the Z6ii because it has better low light capability of shooting inside cathedrals, museums, etc. I also don't think I would need all the Z7ii's megapixels since I doubt I'd do much cropping with travel and street photography. Plus the Z6ii's price is right during this sale.

So, my brain tells me to go with the Z6ii but, in reality, my heart tells me to go with neither the Z6ii or Z7ii and pick up that beautiful Zf even though it's heavier and not on sale!

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The Best Lenses To Pack For Your Trip To China

• Last updated May 09, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

China is a land of endless wonders, from ancient temples to modern skyscrapers, bustling cities to serene landscapes. And to capture the beauty of this vast country, you need the right lenses in your camera bag. Whether you're an avid photographer or just love to document your travels, having the best lenses for your trip to China can make all the difference in capturing those once-in-a-lifetime shots. From wide-angle lenses to telephoto zooms, this guide will help you choose the perfect lenses to pack for your adventure in China. So grab your camera and get ready to capture the essence of this incredible country.

What You'll Learn

Essential lenses for capturing the vibrant street life in china, best lens options for capturing the stunning landscapes of china, must-have lenses for photographing the magnificent architecture in china, recommended lenses for capturing the unique cultural experiences in china.

China is a country known for its vibrant street life and bustling cities. If you are planning a trip to explore the streets of China and capture its energy through photography, having the right lenses is essential. Here are some must-have lenses to consider for capturing the vibrant street life in China:

Wide-angle lens:

A wide-angle lens is a must-have for capturing the vastness and grandeur of China's cityscapes. It allows you to capture the full frame and get expansive views of the streets, buildings, and landmarks you encounter. A wide-angle lens with a focal length of around 24mm to 35mm is ideal for capturing the bustling streets and crowded markets of China.

Standard zoom lens:

A standard zoom lens, typically around 24-70mm, is a versatile option for street photography in China. It allows you to capture a variety of scenes and subjects, from close-up portraits to wider street scenes. This focal length range is perfect for capturing the essence of street life without distorting the perspective.

Prime lens:

A prime lens, such as a 50mm or 35mm lens, is an excellent choice for capturing candid moments and street portraits in China. Prime lenses are known for their sharpness and ability to create a shallow depth of field, making your subjects stand out from the busy backgrounds. These lenses are also compact and lightweight, making them ideal for carrying around during your explorations.

Telephoto lens:

While wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the overall scenes, a telephoto lens comes in handy for getting closer shots of interesting details or capturing candid moments from a distance. A telephoto lens with a focal length of around 70-200mm allows you to capture street performers, vendors, and other subjects without intruding on their personal space.

Macro lens:

If you are interested in capturing the intricate details of street scenes, markets, or traditional crafts in China, a macro lens is a great addition to your travel gear. Macro lenses allow you to get extremely close to your subjects and capture the fine details, textures, and colors that might go unnoticed with other lenses. A macro lens with a focal length of around 90mm to 100mm is ideal for capturing the small details in China's vibrant street life.

Remember, choosing the right lenses for your trip to China depends on your personal style and preferences in photography. A combination of wide-angle, standard zoom, prime, telephoto, and macro lenses will ensure that you are prepared to capture the diversity and energy of China's street life. So pack your favorite lenses, hit the streets, and get ready to document the vibrant moments of your Chinese adventure.

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China is a country known for its rich and diverse landscapes, from the towering mountains and deep valleys of the Himalayas to the picturesque rice terraces of Guilin. If you are planning a trip to China and want to capture the stunning beauty of its landscapes, it is crucial to choose the right lens for your camera. In this article, we will discuss some of the best lens options for capturing the beauty of China's landscapes and provide you with some practical tips to make the most out of your photography experience.

Wide-angle lens

A wide-angle lens is an essential tool for capturing the vastness and grandeur of China's landscapes. It allows you to include more in the frame, from towering mountains to expansive rice fields. A focal length between 16mm and 24mm is ideal for capturing wide-angle shots. A wide-angle lens also helps create a sense of depth, making the viewer feel immersed in the scene.

Telephoto lens

While a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the overall beauty of the landscape, a telephoto lens allows you to zoom in on specific details and capture distant subjects. China's landscapes are often adorned with intricate details, such as ancient temples or traditional villages nestled among mountains. A telephoto lens with a focal length of 70mm to 200mm will help you capture these details and bring them to life in your photographs.

If you prefer fixed focal lengths and want to capture the landscapes of China with exceptional sharpness and detail, a prime lens is the way to go. Prime lenses are known for their excellent optical quality and low distortion. A 35mm or 50mm prime lens can capture the landscapes of China with stunning clarity and detail, giving your photographs a unique perspective.

China's landscapes are not limited to grand vistas and sweeping panoramas. They are also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Capturing the intricate details of flowers, insects, or even a delicate leaf can add another layer of beauty to your photographs. A macro lens enables you to capture these details with exceptional sharpness and clarity. A 100mm macro lens is commonly used for this purpose.

In addition to choosing the right lens, using filters can greatly enhance your landscape photographs. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance the colors and contrast in your images. Graduated neutral density filters can balance the exposure between the sky and the land, ensuring that both are properly exposed. These filters can be a valuable addition to your photography gear when capturing the stunning landscapes of China.

When traveling to China, it is essential to choose the right lens to capture the beauty of its landscapes. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness, while a telephoto lens allows you to zoom in on specific details. Prime and macro lenses can provide unique perspectives and capture intricate details. Using filters can add another level of depth and enhance the overall quality of your images. By selecting the right lenses and utilizing filters, you can ensure that your photographs do justice to the stunning landscapes of China. So, pack your gear, plan your itinerary, and get ready to capture the beauty of China's landscapes like never before.

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China is a country full of rich history and magnificent architecture that is just waiting to be explored and photographed. When planning a trip to China, it's important to bring the right lenses to capture the beauty of its buildings and structures. Here are some must-have lenses for photographing the magnificent architecture in China.

• Wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the grandeur and scale of China's architecture. Many of China's famous landmarks, such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven, are massive structures that require a wide-angle lens to capture in their entirety. A lens with a focal length of around 16-35mm is ideal for photographing these landmarks and any other large architectural structures you come across.
• Telephoto lens: While a wide-angle lens is essential, a telephoto lens is also a must-have for photographing the intricate details of China's architecture. Many of China's historic buildings are adorned with beautiful carvings, intricate architecture, and decorative details that can be best captured with a telephoto lens. A lens with a focal length of around 70-200mm will allow you to zoom in and capture these details with precision.
• Prime lenses: Prime lenses, with their fixed focal lengths, are great for capturing sharp and high-resolution images of China's architecture. A wide-angle prime lens, such as a 24mm or 35mm, will allow you to capture stunning wide-angle shots with minimal distortion. A prime lens in the range of 50mm-85mm is also useful for capturing detailed shots of smaller architectural features and for creating beautiful portraits against the backdrop of China's magnificent architecture.
• Tilt-shift lens: A tilt-shift lens is a specialized lens that allows you to control the perspective and depth of field in your architectural photographs. This lens is particularly useful when photographing tall buildings, as it can help correct converging lines and eliminate distortion. A tilt-shift lens gives you greater control over the composition of your images and allows you to capture unique perspectives of China's architecture.
• Macro lens: A macro lens may not be the first lens that comes to mind when photographing architecture, but it can be incredibly useful for capturing intricate details and textures. China's architecture is known for its elaborate carvings, delicate stonework, and ornate details, and a macro lens will allow you to capture these features up close. A lens with a focal length between 90mm-105mm is ideal for photographing these small details.

In addition to these lenses, don't forget to bring lens filters, a sturdy tripod, and extra batteries and memory cards to ensure you have everything you need for photographing China's magnificent architecture. With the right lenses and equipment, you'll be able to capture the beauty and grandeur of China's architecture in all its splendor. Happy shooting!

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When traveling to China, it's important to have the right lenses to ensure you capture the unique cultural experiences beautifully. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Shanghai, the ancient temples of Beijing, or the scenic landscapes of Guilin, having the right lenses will allow you to capture the beauty and essence of China.

• Wide-angle lens (16-35mm): A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the vast landscapes and architecture in China. It allows you to capture the grandeur of iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China or the Forbidden City. Additionally, a wide-angle lens is also great for capturing street scenes and bustling markets, letting you immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of China.
• Telephoto lens (70-200mm): A telephoto lens is a must-have for capturing detailed shots of distant subjects. From capturing the intricate carvings of ancient sculptures to zooming in on traditional performers during festivals, a telephoto lens lets you capture the finer details that make China's culture so unique. It also allows you to take stunning portraits of locals, highlighting their traditional attire and distinctive features.
• Prime lens (50mm or 85mm): A prime lens is perfect for low light situations and creating captivating portraits. With its wider aperture, you can achieve a beautiful depth of field, blurring the background and putting the focus on your subject. This lens is excellent for capturing the details and expressions of individuals during everyday moments or cultural celebrations.
• Macro lens (100mm): China is known for its intricate art and craftsmanship, and a macro lens allows you to capture the fine details of these works. From magnifying the brushstrokes in a Chinese calligraphy piece to capturing the delicate details of traditional Chinese porcelain, a macro lens allows you to delve into the smaller aspects of China's culture.
• All-in-one travel lens (18-200mm): If you prefer to travel light and don't want to carry multiple lenses, an all-in-one travel lens is a great option. With its wide focal range, it allows you to capture wide-angle shots as well as zoom in on distant subjects. While it may not have the same image quality as dedicated lenses, it offers versatility and convenience for capturing a wide range of subjects.

Remember, the right lens depends on your personal shooting style and preferences. If you're unsure, consider renting lenses to test them out before your trip. Additionally, always pack a cleaning kit and extra batteries to ensure you're ready for any photography opportunity that may arise during your travels. With the right lenses in your camera bag, you'll be all set to capture the unique cultural experiences that await you in China.

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