travel camera shot

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 compact
Best budget full frame
Best hybrid
Best for size
Best budget
Best waterproof
Best action cam
Best for 360º
Best for vloggers
How to choose
How we test

The Quick List ↩ 1. Best compact 2. Best budget full frame 3. Best hybrid 4. Best for size 5. Best budget 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. After all, your phone is almost certainly going to be in your pocket anyway – and it's almost certainly got a great camera.

That means the best travel cameras need to combine compactness with image quality, advanced features with simple operation, and ideally the ability to get your files onto your phone, tablet, or laptop quickly, to share your holiday photos and vacation videos. Having a camera that's safe to take on the beach, in the snow, or even in the sea could be another key consideration!

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).

The type of camera you pick comes down to personal preference and budget. To help you decide which is best, 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.

Fujifilm X100VI product image on a white background

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.

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.

Best compact travel camera

Fujifilm X100VI camera on a slatted wooden bench

1. Fujifilm X100VI

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a pocketable camera: the Fujifilm X100VI is a compact camera, the camera, and lens are so small that you can easily slip this into a jacket pocket. ✅ You want a camera that looks good: This is one of the best-looking cameras you can buy with the beautiful retro looks of old-school film cameras.

❌ You want to change 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 of more focal lengths ❌ You want a cheap travel camera: the X100VI does not come cheap, and there are options that produce similar quality if you don't mind a different style of camera.

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 's X100VI. The X100VI is the latest in Fujifilm's line of premium compact cameras, hallmarked for their brilliant image quality, vintage looks, and pocketable size.

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 are not worth the money.

The camera is beautiful 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. This premium camera comes at a premium cost though, and it is not the cheapest on this list, but for the build quality and features, it justifies its higher price.

The X100V packs in some lovely 40.2MP photos, and has a clever lens to digitally zoom and crop before taking a photo, cutting some of the work out if you are keen to share online quickly. The camera also has 6.2K, 4K, or HD video with 240 frames per second, so you can get creative with high-quality or slow-motion video on your travels. There is also human, animal, bird, and vehicle autofocus tracking, so you can snap away with confidence at anything you come across. 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, taking some of 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 main downside is the Fujifilm X100VI's slick design however for traveling is the camera is not fully water resistant unless you buy an additional filter ring and filter, in fact you can't use any filters on this lens without the extra purchase, but for the price of this camera, I feel this should really come in the box.

Read our full Fujifilm X100VI review

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.

The Sony A7 III might be one of the oldest Sony cameras still around, it has even been replaced by a newer Sony A7 VI, but 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.

The camera still has a very competitive 24.2MP back-illuminated image sensor, which is paired with an image processor, delivers stunning 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. If you are also looking to capture video footage then the camera has very capable 4K video.

While not the latest algorithms, the A7 III also has solid human face and eye tracking, coupled with a 696-point AF system, you can take reliably focused photos of your friends, family, or any interesting folk you see out on the streets.

Whilst handing on the camera is very good, it is a little off balance with big pro lenses, although Sony's lens range is extensive and there are lots of smaller primes that suit this camera perfectly for those who don't want to carry a lot while traveling. If size is less of a concern then superzoom lenses like the Sony FE 24-240mm will empower you to capture everything from near to far.

The best thing about this option I think is the price. It’s the best-value full-frame camera out there – and if you are traveling then often how much your camera costs is not something you want playing on your mind.

Read our full Sony A7 III review

Best hybrid travel camera

3. Fujifilm X-S20

✅ You shoot video and photos: the Fujifilm X-S20 is the best of both worlds, with great-looking photos, but frankly 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 especially 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 need weather sealing: 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 stills camera, it also one of the best video cameras available, and best of all, it is really well priced! I think this is the best camera for any traveler looking to shoot a mix of stills and videos on the market 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 easier.

But 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 for getting in-depth with color grading. The subject recognition and tracking also carries through into videos and the X-S20 also has dedicated vlogging features.

Some might prefer the classic retro style like the X-T5 or X-T30 II, but the X-S20 is a much more user-friendly camera, with useful features like a fully articulating screen. Handling is great, 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.

Best travel camera for size

Hands holding the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV best travel camera

4. 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

Best travel camera on a budget

A hand holding the best travel camera Panasonic Lumix G100

5. Panasonic Lumix G100

✅ You want an affordable camera: the Lumix G100 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 G100 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, but you don't want to pay a small fortune for a camera to do so, or risk carrying around an expensive camera. The Panasonic Lumix G100 is the best camera you can get for traveling that offers all the quality features you will need but at an affordable price.

The G100 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 G100 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 G100 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 G100, 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 G100 review

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.

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

The best travel camera the Sony ZV-E10 sitting on a wall behind some leaves

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

These three things make you look like an amateur photographer

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.

OM System OM-5 mirrorless camera on a white background

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.

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.

Fujifilm X100VI compact camera on a white background

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.

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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.

Fujifilm X-S20 camera on a white background

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.

Sony A6700 mirrorless camera on a white background

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.

Sony RX10 IV camera on a white background

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.

The OM System OM-5 camera sitting on a tree branch

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

Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200, one of the best travel cameras, on a table with a map, a guidebook and a passport

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

The Nikon Z fc, one of the best travel cameras, camera on a park bench

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

A guide light accessory on the OM System Tough TG-7 camera

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

Front of the Fujifilm X100VI reflected in glass table

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

Sony A7C R camera outside on a wooden table

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

Sony Alpha A6700 mirrorless camera outside on a wall

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

Sony RX10 IV, one of the best travel cameras, being used by someone

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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Best Camera
Best Mid-Range
Best Budget
Best Vlogging
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Notable Mentions

Recent updates, all reviews, the 5 best compact cameras for travel - spring 2024 reviews.

Point-and-shoot cameras are a natural choice for travel thanks to their compact sizes and built-in zoom lenses, making it a breeze to capture all your memories abroad without having to lug around a bulky kit with multiple lenses. While smartphone cameras have continued to improve, and they're usually the camera you've already got on you, some point-and-shoots offer improved image quality with larger sensors than the ones typically found in phones, while others offer longer zoom ranges that you simply can't get with the physically limited lenses on your smartphone.

We've bought and tested over 100 cameras in our lab, and below, you'll find the best small travel cameras we've tested. If you don't mind carrying a larger kit with interchangeable lenses, check out our picks for the best mirrorless cameras for travel . If you want to capture beautiful images of destination vistas, you might also want to check out our best cameras for landscape photography . Alternatively, if you're less interested in snapping places and more interested in the people that populate them, see our picks for the best street photography cameras .

Best Compact Camera For Travel

It isn't cheap, but the Sony RX100 VII is the best small travel camera that we've tested. Sony has perfected the formula for compact zoom cameras with its RX100 series. This latest model features a stacked 1-inch sensor that delivers blazing-fast burst rates and great image quality for its class, along with a pop-up viewfinder and flash, a large tilting screen, and a zoom lens—all packed into an incredibly portable camera.

While it doesn't have the widest zoom range on this list, its 24–200mm full-frame equivalent focal length still gives you a fair amount of range, offering some flexibility for framing and composition. The camera also has a highly effective autofocus system, ensuring your subjects stay in focus, even in busier settings. That said, like most compact cameras, it has a pretty short battery life, though you can always pack a spare battery or portable power bank to charge it on the go.

See our review

Best Mid-Range Compact Camera For Travel

Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II Design Photo

The Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II is a great mid-range option if you don't want to spend as much on a travel camera. It's easily one of the most comfortable point-and-shoots we've tested, thanks to a nicely designed grip and thumb rest. On top of that, its user interface is highly intuitive. It also has a nearly identical pop-up viewfinder as the one found on the Sony RX100 VII , which is great for sunny days when it's harder to see the screen.

The built-in lens here has a fairly wide max aperture, making it decently well-suited to dimmer lighting conditions. However, it has a slightly shorter zoom range than the Sony, with a 24–120mm equivalent focal length. The camera's autofocus system can also struggle to track subjects quickly and accurately, so keep that in mind if you plan on shooting faster subjects in busier settings. Otherwise, this camera has plenty to offer for travelers who want something compact and comfortable to shoot with.

Best Budget Compact Camera For Travel

The Canon PowerShot SX740 is one of the best point-and-shoot cameras to get if you're on a tighter budget. It uses a smaller sensor than the more premium options above, so there's a slight trade-off in image quality. On the upside, its built-in lens has a 40x optical zoom range, giving you a remarkably wide focal length range of 24–960mm. Though it doesn't have a viewfinder like the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II , the camera's tilt screen can flip up for selfies or waist-level shots, and it's incredibly portable.

Of course, the most cost-effective choice if your budget is really tight is to simply use your smartphone! Most smartphone cameras these days feature pretty impressive processing to compensate for their smaller sensors, which means you can still get great results despite some hardware limitations. The best part is that you've likely already got a smartphone on you, so it won't cost you anything extra or take up more space in your luggage. Still, if you want the shooting experience of a dedicated point-and-shoot camera, the PowerShot SX740 has quite a bit of value for its price.

Best Compact Vlogging Camera For Travel

While the previous picks are more photography-oriented, travel vloggers should take note of the Sony ZV-1, the best point-and-shoot camera for travel vlogging. Though it doesn't have a viewfinder, it's the only option on this list to feature a fully articulated screen, making it easy to monitor yourself while recording or to take the odd selfie. On top of that, it has vlogging-specific features like a detachable windscreen to reduce ambient noise when recording outside.

The Sony ZV-1 II has since replaced it and features a wider-angle lens that's a good fit for walk-and-talk vlogs. However, the newer model doesn't have optical stabilization, and its digital stabilization feature crops in some of that wider field of view. For those reasons, the original ZV-1 is still our top pick here, especially since you can get it for cheaper. It checks all the boxes for a compact, all-in-one vlogging camera for travel.

Best Large Sensor Compact Camera For Travel

The RICOH GR III is a fantastic option if image quality is your top priority. While you'll still get great images from 1-inch sensor cameras like the Sony RX100 VII or the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II , the RICOH boasts a larger APS-C sensor that delivers excellent image quality and better noise handling in low light. Its sleek, minimalist design makes it the most pocketable camera on this list, too, so you can bring it with you wherever your travels take you.

Of course, this isn't the travel camera for everyone. If you want the flexibility to zoom in on farther subjects or you like to shoot video on the side, you're out of luck here since the camera has a fixed 28mm equivalent focal length and has poor video capabilities. If 28mm is too wide for you, you can opt for the RICOH GR IIIx instead, which has a 40mm equivalent lens. Though it lacks a viewfinder or zoom lens, this is one of the best options if you want something super portable that doesn't compromise on image quality.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III: The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is a good compact vlogging camera. Unlike the Sony ZV-1, it has a built-in livestreaming feature that some travel vloggers may find appealing. However, its autofocus isn't as effective, and the camera doesn't have a fully articulated screen. See our review
Fujifilm X100V: The Fujifilm X100V is a beautifully designed point-and-shoot with an APS-C sensor. Unlike the RICOH GR III, it has a hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder and a tilting screen, making it more versatile. However, it isn't as compact as other options here, and the manufacturer has since replaced it with the in-demand Fujifilm X100VI. See our review
Panasonic LUMIX ZS80: The Panasonic LUMIX ZS80 is one of the best budget options you can get, offering a ton of value for its price, and unlike the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II, it even has a viewfinder. However, it's been discontinued and is harder to find. See our review

Apr 10, 2024: We brushed up some of the text throughout the article for clarity and added a mention of the Fujifilm X100VI to ensure the article is up to date with the current market.

Mar 14, 2024: We've reviewed the article to ensure the text and recommendations are up to date.

Feb 14, 2024: Moved the Panasonic LUMIX ZS80 to the Notable Mentions because it's been discontinued and is hard to find in stock, and replaced it with the Canon PowerShot SX740 as the main budget pick.

Dec 18, 2023: Reviewed accuracy of picks with no change to recommendations.

Oct 19, 2023: Moved the Fujifilm X100V to Notable Mentions.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best compact cameras for most people to buy for travel, 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 would like to choose for yourself, here's the list of all our compact fixed-lens camera reviews. 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.

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.

Church Of The Good Shepherd Best Travel Camera

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.

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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.

Cook Islands Palm Tree Tropical Water Best Travel Camera

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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The 12 Best Travel Cameras of 2024

Whether you’re shooting landscapes or cityscapes, these are the best travel cameras for capturing your memories.

Cameras let us snap scenes that inspire, places that take our breath away, and simple moments that make up the fabric of a destination through a single shot. Hefty camera bodies with giant lenses might seem like the obvious choice for top-notch photos, but for travel, they can be a bulky hindrance taking up too much packing space. Instead, consider your specific needs as a jumping off point when you're ready to shop for a new camera. Are you a hardcore adventurer? Are most of your travels long-haul trips? Are you a beginner or advanced photographer? These are all questions you should ask yourself to help narrow it down.

Whether you purchase a budget-friendly camera or something pricier, it'll be an investment — not only financially, but also in trusting your pick to properly capture once-in-a-lifetime experiences that don't come with do-overs. To help with your travel camera search, we also spoke to professional photographers Jonathan Pozniak and Viktoria North, as well as Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz, to get some expert advice on how to choose the best camera for you.

Best Overall

Sony alpha a7cr.

It’s compact in size but a powerhorse.

There’s only one SD card slot.

A full frame mirrorless camera with incredibly high resolution, the Sony Alpha 7CR is our top pick for a travel camera. The compact size makes it very portable, and the interchangeable lenses give you a lot of versatility for shooting everything from landscape or wildlife to portraits and city scenes. As a photographer, I love the intuitive design of the Sony Alpha series cameras and this one is no exception; auto-focus tracking is impressive, in-body image stabilization does not disappoint, and the battery life has improved significantly from earlier models. Track your subject with the smart eye detection, for humans and wildlife, including a special bird option. I also appreciate how customizable the settings and buttons are, making your photography shoots more efficient. In addition to having the capability of capturing high-quality photographs in both RAW and JPG files, this camera takes video in 4K too. Built-in WiFi and bluetooth capabilities make it easy to share photos or connect to a remote as well. For a professional quality camera that won’t take up too much space or weigh you down when traveling, this is our top choice.

The Details: Full frame CMOS (35.7mm x 23.8mm) sensor | 61 megapixels | 1/8000 to 30 seconds shutter speed | 4K video | 1.1 pounds

Best Action Camera

Gopro hero12 black.

It’s waterproof and weatherproof.

It doesn’t include a GPS component.

The rough and tumble GoPro Hero12 Black has long been one of the top action cameras, with its pocket-sized and durable design. With improved image stabilization and battery life, as well as the ability to handle hotter temperatures, this newest version is no exception. With so many accessories that can be purchased separately, this camera can be equipped for any adventure, big or small, cold or hot, wet or dry. I especially love the bite mount for capturing POV, hands-free shots, with my dog. This camera is so compact and portable, it’s perfect for travel. Anything you find yourself doing, from mountain biking or skiing, to snorkeling, or taking a sunrise timelapse, will be captured so vibrantly. Customize the frame rate and settings when capturing video, with the option for 5.3K video quality. You have the option to shoot in RAW or JPEG, though you can only use the wide angle when shooting RAW. Other cool features include the ability to use voice commands to take a photo or start video, and modes like HDR, sup slow motion movie, and star trails.

The Details: Size-unspecified CMOS sensor | 27 megapixels | 1/8 to 30 seconds in photo mode, 1/480 to 1/30 seconds in video mode shutter speeds | 5.3K + 4K video | 5.4 ounces

Best Budget DSLR

Canon eos rebel t7.

It's super affordable and user-friendly.

It's best suited for entry-level photographers.

With the Canon EOS Rebel T7, you can save your dollars without skimping on image quality, and there's not much more you can ask for in the DSLR world. Although there is a newer version of this camera ( EOS Rebel T8i ), the T7 is still the most budget-friendly device with features perfect for someone ready to branch out and learn the ins and outs of DSLRs. That being said, it's more suited for a beginner photographer who wants to amp up their game past smartphone photography . It's a fantastic camera to practice manual mode and learn how to adjust ISO, aperture, and shutter speed settings. Eventually, it's likely that you'll be ready to graduate to a more complex camera — but we all have to start somewhere, right?

Canon is well known for having a straightforward, easy-to-use system, which is a huge bonus for beginners. The LCD screen is helpful for navigating the menu and setting up images, though it does lack the luxury of touchscreen capabilities. Built-in WiFi allows for quick sharing between devices, so your amazing shots can be posted to social media platforms in a jiffy.

The Details: Cropped CMOS sensor | 24 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds bulb shutter | Full HD video | 15.06 ounces (body only)

Best Budget Mirrorless

Canon eos r50.

B&H Photo

It’s compact and lightweight, offering great value for its features.

Advanced photographers might prefer a camera with more bells and whistles.

The brand new Canon EOS R50 snags the spot for best budget mirrorless and doesn’t only promise great photo quality, but its video capabilities are fantastic as well. With 4K uncropped video and stellar subject detection and tracking at a friendly price point, this mirrorless model is a great everyday camera that’s ideal for everything from social media video captures to portrait and landscape shooting. Interchangeable lenses give you flexibility, and the compact design won’t weigh you down. Excellent auto-focus that can be tailored to detect humans, animals, and even vehicles is a major highlight, as is the 12fps (frames per second) burst mode. The touchscreen and creative assist mode make this a beginner-friendly camera as well as one that won’t break the bank.

The Details: Cropped CMOS (APS-C) sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/4000th sec - 30 seconds, in 1/3-step increments shutter speed | 4K video | 11.52 ounces

Best Retro Look

Fujifilm x100vi camera.

It has a timeless look with modern features.

Since it’s a limited edition model, there are only a certain number available for purchase.

We love how compact and sleek the limited edition FUJIFILM X100VI is, with the nod to nostalgia symbolized by the engraved original brand logo. This is our top pick for best retro-inspired camera, but if you can’t get your hands on one of these limited edition models, the FUJIFILM X-T5 is our next best bet. That being said, this model has fantastic low-light capabilities, in-body stabilization, 6.2K video capture, and improved in-body stabilization to minimize shaky shots. It has a tilting LCD touchscreen display, which I find makes it easier to snag those artistic selfies in the midst of epic landscapes or to get a solid group photo. The lens is a fixed 35mm lens. With the camera’s WiFi, it also uses an intuitive camera-to-cloud (c-2-c) system which automatically uploads content to the cloud-based platform. For a small camera with a "throwback" look that has amazing capabilities, this one is perfect for travelers as an everyday use tool.

The Details: APS-C X-trans CMOS 5 HR sensor | 40.2 megapixels | 1/4000 to 15 Minutes in manual mode shutter speed (mechanical), 1/180000 to 15 minutes in manual mode shutter speed (electronic) | 4K + 6K video | 1.1 pounds

Best Mirrorless for Beginners

The user-friendly design makes learning photography with this model much easier.

The flip screen tends to get in the way of a tripod attachment if you're using one.

We love how the Nikon Z50 is small enough to fit in your pocket, but don't be fooled by its size: it produces big-time quality images. "For those new to photography and video, this camera provides an exciting entry point. It's small enough to carry with you, but offers higher-quality images than your phone. This model is great to learn with as it incorporates many easy-to-use features, plus offers an automatic mode that senses different shooting scenarios and automatically adjusts the camera's settings (e.g., ISO range, exposure compensation) to deliver stunning results," Nikon's Cruz says.

The flip-down LCD screen is ideal for travel photographers and creators that want to take selfies, vlog, or include themselves for scale. The Z50 is also designed to save settings for both photo and video separately, so you don't have to worry about changing everything when you switch modes. With low-light capabilities, an easy-to-navigate menu, a sleek design, and 11 frames per second at full resolution, a beginner travel photographer will be hard pressed to find a better mirrorless camera.

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 20.9 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds, bulb, time shutter | 4K video | 14 ounces

Best DSLR for Beginners

Pentax pentax kf dslr.

It produces high-quality images at a more affordable price than most competitors.

The video capabilities aren’t that impressive.

For those interested in getting their feet wet with photography, the Pentax KF DSLR Camera is our top choice for its durable, weather-resistant body, vari-angle screen, and compact size despite DSLR cameras’ reputation for being hefty in general. It offers a solid grip, and longer battery life, as most DSLR’s do. Start learning the camera in automatic and make use of the manual controls as you learn photography. The large viewfinder is fantastic, and this particular model mixes modern mirrorless technology with the classic DSLR viewfinder by offering a live view in addition to the optical viewfinder. You’ll be able to mix and match your preferred focal lengths with this model as well, since it’s equipped for interchangeable lenses. For the price point, this newbie from Pentax is a solid entry level DSLR for travel that won’t take up a ton of space in your bag.

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/6000 to 30 seconds shutter in auto mode, 1/6000 to 30 seconds shutter in manual mode | 1080p HD video | 2.73 pounds

Best Mirrorless for Outdoor Photography

Om system om system mark ii.

The autofocus is fast.

The video capabilities aren’t as fast as other models.

The newest OM SYSTEM camera, the OM-1 Mark II Mirrorless model is a lightweight and compact, high-performing camera with durable construction and IP53 weatherproofing. This means it can withstand the elements when shooting landscapes or wildlife outdoors, including some rain, wind, and snowflakes. In fact, the camera is freezeproof, dust and splash-resistant, and can handle temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. The built-in stabilization is another key factor for outdoor and wildlife photographers, helping you to get the sharp image and assisting with longer exposures to minimize shake. The rubber control dials give you a little more grippy control when shooting, which is a nice additional feature that can go a long way. For a workhorse mirrorless travel camera that can hack it outdoors, this is a fantastic choice.

The Details: Cropped 17.4 x 13 mm (four-thirds) BSI MOS sensor | 20.4 megapixels | 1/8000 to 60 seconds shutter (mechanical), 1/32000 to 60 seconds shutter (electronic) | 4K video | 1.1 pounds

Best Splurge

Leica q3 digital camera.

It’s fast and performs well in most lighting conditions.

The front of the camera has a flat design, making it tricky to grip at times.

This pick is an upgrade to the Leica Q2 version of the company’s classic rangefinder camera, and we love how easy to use and versatile the Leica Q3 is across a wide array of shooting conditions. This fresh model allows for in-camera charging, which is a worthy upgrade from the previous one. The same full-frame capabilities are now paired with a powerhouse 60MP high-resolution sensor, hybrid AF (autofocus) system, and 8K video recording ability. The processing is speedy for both shooting stills and video, and boasts continuous shooting up to 15 frames per second. The fixed 28mm f/1.7 prime lens is impressive even in low light conditions, and a full battery charge will score you approximately 350 shots. The Leica Q3 is a great choice for intermediate to advanced photographers seeking high-end equipment for everyday purposes and professional jobs.

The Details: Full-frame BSI CMOS Sensor | 60 megapixels | 1/2000 to 1/2 second shutter speed, 1/2000 to 4 seconds in auto mode | 8K video at 30 frames per second, 4K video | 8.8 ounces

Best Underwater

Om system tough tg-7 black underwater camera.

It's tough and effective.

Divers should be aware that the waterproofing level only goes to 50 feet.

The upgraded Olympus Tough TG-7 is exactly what it claims to be: tough, rugged, and capable of taking superb underwater photos and videos. The solid handgrip does a great job giving you that extra security as you swim around and shoot the underwater world . New features added from the TG-6 include vertical video support, interval shooting, exposure smoothing, and USB-C connectivity for uploading content.

With a unique internal zoom mechanism, the 25–100-millimeter lens doesn't stick out from the camera body, keeping it watertight while you capture macro details of marine life from a safe distance. RAW shooting and 4K video make this not just any old underwater camera, but one with impressive capabilities. The super slow-motion mode is another favorite. It's rated as waterproof to 50 feet, making it the perfect companion for your snorkeling or free diving adventures . It's not just waterproof either; the shockproof design makes this camera perfect for ventures outside of the water as well. Bring it hiking, mountain biking, or just for a day at the beach without having to worry.

The camera is also easy to use, which is exactly what you want when you're shooting underwater. "I had fun with the Olympus TG-6 on assignment in Bora Bora. I'm a terrible swimmer so all I could do was click away and hope for the best. Thankfully it worked!" Jonathan Pozniak shares.

The Details: Cropped BSI CMOS sensor | 12 megapixels | 1/2000 to 1/2 second shutter, 1/2000 to 4 seconds shutter in auto mode | 4K video | 8.8 ounces

Best Phone Lens

Moment tele lens.

It gives you 2x and 4x zoom capabilities when attached to single and multi-lens smartphones.

To achieve the 6x closer shot, you’ll need the Moment Pro Camera app.

Our top pick for a stand-alone extra lens to attach to your smartphone is the Moment T-series Tele 58mm lens, which allows you to zoom up to six times closer to your subject. As a standard, it also sits twice as close to the main camera lens of your phone. This allows for sharper shots versus using the zoom on your smartphone, which diminishes the resolution. Fantastic for landscape, wildlife, and portrait photography, this lens definitely elevates your smartphone photo game by offering more flexibility without sacrificing quality. Video will also benefit thanks to a beautiful bokeh effect and an overall cinematic vibe. This lens is easy to use, as it features a straightforward mounting process and quickly twists off. This lens is compatible with most phones, but it’s wise to consult the description before purchasing.

"For most people, a smartphone is all you need, but that may vary for each trip. If I'm out hiking for the day, my iPhone 12 Pro in my pocket is all I need, and the fact that it shoots RAW and video is a huge plus." Pozniak explains.

The Details: 58 millimeter | 300 line pairs per millimeter (axis), 200 line pairs per millimeter (edge) | 39.5 millimeter lens | 2.6 ounces

Best Pocket-Sized

Ricoh ricoh street edition.

B & H Photo

It’s very lightweight and portable.

There is no viewfinder.

We love the pocket-sized, travel-friendly Ricoh GR III Street Edition Digital camera for everyday use and portability. It’s easy to use with straightforward settings, menu, and customization. I really appreciate a camera that starts up quickly so you don’t miss the shot, and this one fits the bill. It has the capability to capture both JPEG and RAW files and you can get creative with the built-in filters like monochrome, HDR tone, and negative film. A fixed 28mm equivalent lens makes it versatile enough for portraits as well as landscape and street photography. This camera lacks a built-in flash but it does come with a hot shoe so you can attach a compatible external flash to it, if you’re taking night shots. Image stabilzation and an impressive auto-focus help produce sharper images, and a decent battery life makes it possible to explore a new city all day without having to worry that you’ll run out of juice. Bluetooth and WiFi make it easy to share photos as well.

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds shutter, 0.17 to 20 minutes shutter in time mode | 1080p video | 9.07 ounces

Tips for Buying a Travel Camera

Understand the specs.

"When you're thinking about buying a camera, it's important to understand what features and specifications complement your shooting style as well as the content you are looking to capture, whether it be still images, video content, or both," says Nikon's Mark Cruz. These are some of the specs you should consider before making a purchase.

Sensor size: Your camera's sensor is the rectangle that reads the image from your lens and dictates how much light and detail you're able to capture. The main sensor sizes to decide upon are cropped or full-frame, with full-frame cameras having larger sensors and the ability to produce higher image quality. Cropped frame sensors will get you a tighter frame, with magnification cropping the actual lens focal length by anywhere between 1.5x and 2x. This means that a 70-millimeter lens would be magnified to a 105-millimeter focal length with a crop factor of 1.5x. Common crop sensor sizes are APS-C and micro four thirds (1.6x and 1.5x).

There are advantages to purchasing a full-frame (35 millimeter) camera, though it will come with a heftier price tag. You'll experience sharper images with more crisp details, as well as less noise. Additionally, a full-frame sensor has excellent low-light capabilities, making it the ideal aspect for astrophotography . For landscape photography, the wider field of view is a major advantage of the full-frame sensor as well. If you're interested in professional photography, selling prints, or turning your shots into custom photo gifts , the full-frame sensor will be a good fit since it produces the highest possible quality images.

Megapixels: This is a measurement of the number of pixels the camera sensor has, with "mega" meaning "millions." Usually anything over 12 megapixels will get the job done. However, if you're planning on printing large-scale versions of your images for personal or professional use, the higher the megapixel count, the better. Most cropped sensor cameras have somewhere around 20–24 megapixels while full-frame cameras tend to have between 40 and 50 megapixels.

Shutter speed: This dictates the amount of time that your camera's sensor will be exposed to the light coming in. Faster shutter speeds such as fractions of a second are usually used for quickly moving subjects in order to freeze the motion in the photograph, while slower shutter speeds are typically used to capture things like the flow of a waterfall or the stars in the night sky by having it open and exposed for a longer period of time. When buying a camera, it's a good idea to purchase one with a wider range of shutter speeds to give you the most versatility. Typically, the range is between 1/4000 to 30 seconds. "Bulb" is available on some models and offers more than 30 seconds of exposure to light, usually for photographing the night sky.

Video shooting: The highest quality video on most cameras is 4K, which will give you superb quality. However, many still have full HD video at 1080p or 720p. If video is high on your priority list, 4K is certainly the way to go.

Weight: For travel cameras, this is one of the most important factors to consider. Most travelers want a camera that is lightweight for packing purposes and easy to carry around for the day. Think about if you are willing to lug a bigger DSLR or even a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses in order to have the option for high-quality images that can be printed at a larger scale. If that's more than you need, then a compact, point-and-shoot, or your own smartphone with extra lenses might be the best fit for you.

Buy for your skill level and purpose

While browsing for a travel camera, first assessing your skill level and main purpose for shooting will help narrow down your search considerably. If you're a professional photographer doing brand work with a hotel in a far-flung destination that will be used in marketing campaigns or billboards, your purchase will most likely look a lot different than if your goal is to get images for your travel-focused Instagram page or to simply share with friends and family via digital picture frames . As a beginner, you should purchase a camera aimed at that level of photography with some room to grow, so you can learn effectively without being overwhelmed.

Choose a camera that fits your life and travel style

Do you spend a lot of time outdoors or doing water-based activities, or are you mostly interested in food photography when you travel? All of these aspects will help you determine the right fit for you. As photographer Jonathan Pozniak shares, it's also about comfort. "All cameras are good nowadays, and all have fantastic features. So here's my rule of thumb: go to a camera store, and hold each one in your hand. Listen to the sound it makes, feel what the clicking of the shutter is like," he says. "How do your fingers glide across the buttons? It should feel like an extension of your arm. Be intuitive with it!"

The art of packing a camera involves cushioning and protection against the elements (rain, dust, dirt, etc.). A backpack designed for camera use with a rain cover is always a good idea, particularly if you're someone who will be exploring the outdoors. Camera cubes are great accessories that provide an affordable way to turn a bag you already have into a camera bag.

"When I'm not bringing a lot of gear/cameras, I love the camera cubes by Mountainsmith for the airport and plane. I usually keep the cube in my room with extra lenses and if I am doing a lot of walking, just pick one lens to use for the day (usually a 50 millimeter)," says North.

"While today's mirrorless cameras are rugged, it is best to pack them in a camera bag to ensure as much safety as possible and avoid any potential damage. You should also make sure to put the body cap on the camera to protect the sensor from getting dirty, scratched, or damaged while traveling," she adds.

"Circular Polarizer and a UV filter, a comfortable strap like the Peak Design SL-BK-3 Slide , a backpack clip like Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3 , and if you're heading somewhere with rain or snow in the forecast, Peak Design's shell ," says North.

You'll also definitely want something to backup all the incredible footage you'll be getting. "A portable hard drive for backups is essential! My heart crumbles when I hear stories of cameras and laptops getting stolen on the road. I've certainly experienced that myself. I make multiple backups each day and put each portable drive or thumb drive in a different bag just in case one gets lost or stolen," Pozniak shares.

Our experts also recommend making sure your batteries are fully charged before stepping out each day and bringing along a couple extras just in case.

Our experts had a lot to say when it came to the camera versus lens debate. "The camera and lenses are equally important, but it depends on what a person wants to capture," says Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz. "The lens is what creates a gorgeous blurred background or lets you get close to the action from far away, but the camera provides the autofocus performance and speed to get there. The most important factor for the quality of photos is how you, as the photographer, make the most of your equipment. Combining photography knowledge with a powerful, capable camera and sharp, versatile lenses will allow you to get the best content."

Meanwhile, professional photographer Jonathan Pozniak argues that they're equally important, and emphasizes keeping your lenses clean: "Both! But what's even more important is how you use it, how it feels in your hand, and I've gotta say it, how clean your lens is!"

Fellow photographer Viktoria North was adamant that lenses are her highest priority, and she has very good reasons for putting them at the top of her must list. "With even the most basic of digital cameras now having impressive MP counts and full size sensors becoming more common, good quality glass is most important for me," she says. "This is because I can achieve a specific feel to my images dependent on the lens. For example, a fixed 50 millimeter is going to allow me to capture my urban travels as my own eyes see things. If I also go fast on it, say F1.8, that means the background is going to be nice and blurred and keep the focus on my subjects. But if I'm traveling in some beautiful vast landscapes, I'd grab a zoom lens. This will allow me to compress the different levels of the landscape and or subject and create a lot of depth. You don't always have to go with a big lens like a 70–200mm. I hike and backpack with a 24–105mm F4 most often and when it's at 105mm, I can achieve some really great compression with it."

The main difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras is the tool or technology used to capture the image. A DSLR uses a mirror to reflect light onto the image sensor, but this makes a DSLR heavier and clunkier to carry around. They also usually only have an optical viewfinder which portrays more closely what the eye sees versus an electronic viewfinder on the screen. A mirrorless camera lets light directly hit the sensor, and typically has a live, electronic viewfinder so you can see the real time settings. Mirrorless cameras are more lightweight, therefore making them more portable and travel-friendly. They’re also quieter and faster due to the mechanism they use to capture light. DSLR cameras typically have a longer battery life and a wider array of lenses available, though with recent gains in technology for the mirrorless camera world, that’s changing.

Yes! They usually don’t have the highest megapixels and have a crop sensor, but you can still capture great photos. You may be limited to producing large scale prints, but, depending on the capabilities, you’ll be able to have prints made that are good quality in a fair amount of sizes. For online and social media, a point-and-shoot camera is perfect.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

A travel photographer herself, Lauren Breedlove used her personal experience with finding the right cameras and shooting in various conditions around the world. She also scoured the internet, researching and selecting the best cameras for travel, and interviewed professional photographers Viktoria North and Jonathan Pozniak , as well as Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz , to gather expert insights. Using all of these factors, she curated this list of the best travel cameras.

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11 Best Travel Cameras, According to Experts and Amateurs Alike

By Alex Erdekian

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All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you’re debating whether to spring for one of the best travel cameras before an upcoming trip, consider this: Yes, a smartphone is perfectly capable of serving the average traveler’s photography goals, but a dedicated camera is required for capturing high-quality memories. The wide angle lens of a smartphone camera can only take its images so far; in spite of technology’s advancements over the years, its zoom feature still degrades photo quality, making them too grainy—in our opinion—to be worth taking. When it comes to travel photography, many of us want to get close and fill the frame with exciting faraway shots like skylines and canyons. A good travel camera also allows the photographer to shoot exciting, fleeting scenes from their trips, like bicycles blurring through a charming street, low-light landscapes like a starry sky, or a city strip flashing with neon lights. Lastly, we’ll leave you with this: In an era when we’re glued to our phones every minute of the day, documenting a trip with a camera allows us to be present in the here and now, and actually connect with the place we’ve traveled so far to experience .

To guide your search for the perfect new device, we’ve tapped experts, editors, and frequent travelers to weigh in on their most-loved cameras. Below, 11 travel cameras to consider bringing on your next adventure.

Find the best travel cameras:

For taking your interest to the next level, for capturing video footage, for emulating the experts, for unserious fun with film.

Larry Guo, a Brooklyn-based reader who studied fine art photography as an undergraduate, loves Fujifilm’s ecosystem of cameras when it comes to taking travel photos. His particular camera of choice is the Fujifilm xT10, a mirrorless digital camera that is significantly more lightweight and portable than a DSLR. “You have all of the abilities of a raw digital camera, but it’s less bulky,” Guo says.

Guo’s recent travels have taken him and his partner Rob to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and throughout Japan . His partner, who has an affinity for landscape photography, uses the Fujifilm XT3, which is a more semi-professional model.

“[Rob] really likes the process of coming home and editing. He enjoys landscape photography, so he brought an extra lens. He took really beautiful shots in Puerto Vallarta of the mist. In Japan, he took beautiful photos all over the place. We had them printed at Griffin Editions in Gowanus [Brooklyn].”

Pallavi Kumar , Condé Nast Traveler’s senior visuals director, is loyal to Fujifilm as well. “Fuji’s image quality and colors are unmatched,” Kumar says. “Sony is supposedly advanced, but Fuji's image quality is something else.” She shoots with the Fujifilm x100V.

Guo added that he has heard terrific things about the point-and-shoot cameras by Ricoh. These high-end point-and-shoots make snapping high-caliber photos on the move easy and seamless, requiring little to no steps before hitting the shutter. “It’s a really well-made point-and-shoot,” he says. “There’s no interchanging lenses. And for most people, that's really what you need. Most people don’t want to travel with multiple lenses.”

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Filmmaker and writer Leslye Davis—who is a co-director of the documentary Father Soldier Son and has worked as a visual journalist at the New York Times —has been taking a camcorder with her on her personal travels. “It keeps me off my cell phone and it makes it easier to keep track of footage but also to edit while you shoot, so it’s fun to watch the shots back-to-back,” she says. For photos, she’s been shooting with the Canon R6. “It’s light and has a silent shutter and the images are high-res.”

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National Geographic underwater wildlife photographer Cristina Mittenmeier previously told Traveler that she shoots with a Sony a7R III . Given the subject matter she captures, she uses it for its extraordinarily high-resolution images and low-light capabilities.

In a previous version of this article, legend Steve McCurry recommended the Leica SL2 and White House photographer Pete Souza recommended the Fujifilm X‑Pro3.

McCurry is famous for his iconic photograph “Afghan Girl,” which was featured on the cover of National Geographic in June 1985. The SL2’s lenses, he said, were the best he’s used, and he praised the camera’s incredible durability. The camera has extremely crisp 5K and 4K recording capabilities, so for users who are traveling in rogue conditions—like windy deserts or beaches with massive waves—the camera’s weather sealing, which keeps out the elements, is key.

The Fujifilm X‑Pro3 is Souza’s favorite walking around camera. It's lightweight and quiet. Souza, who photographed Presidents Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama throughout their terms, recommends planning your travel shots with this camera for the “first two hours of light in the morning, the last two hours of light in the evening, or when the weather is really bad (think fog, rain, or snow).”

Image may contain: Camera, Digital Camera, and Electronics

Growing in popularity lately has been Kodak’s new film cameras. Mercedes Bleth , Traveler’s g lobal associate director of social, has been loving the Kodak Ektar H35, a 35mm point-and-shoot film camera that shoots half-frame—which means you get twice as many photos for each roll of film. (A major plus considering film is so expensive.)

“I love taking this little film camera with me on trips,” Bleth says. “It is very compact, lightweight, and easy to use (point-and-shoot at its finest). I find that it's a more present way to capture memories while traveling—it allows you to stay in the moment because you don't spend as much time with your phone in hand, taking too many photos to get the perfect shot. Film is precious (even at half-frame), so what you get is what you get, which in my opinion, makes the memories that much more tangible, and fun to look back on once it's developed.”

I also own this camera in mint green and love how paper-light, affordable, and cute it is. For an even lower stakes experience shooting film, Traveler contributor Lydia Mansel loves her colorful Kodak M35 35mm film camera , a $25 option that is great for those into disposable cameras who want to upgrade to something reusable so they can stop shelling out and throwing away new ones after each trip.

Pocket-lint

Best travel cameras: lightweight options to capture memories on your journey.

From the pocket-sized GoPro to the best mirrorless Canon models, and even a tiny but mighty drone, these are the best cameras for travel shots.

Traveling is always an exciting time. You're setting out to see the world and make some new memories. Of course, you'll want to keep something on your to capture some of those memories, so you can look back on them later. That means a camera. For cameras, you can travel with, you have so many options that it's enough to make your head spin.

GoPro Hero 12 Black

Dji osmo pocket 3, sony alpha 7c, canon eos rebel t7, dji mini 4 pro, these are the 8 gadgets to gift travelers this holiday season.

So, here are the best travel cameras that we could find. We included a good mix of handheld, mirrorless, action, full-frame, and even a selfie camera for good measure. Regardless of whether it's out in the wilderness or a big city somewhere far away, we think at least one of these cameras will work during your travels.

It'll go anywhere you want it to go

The GoPro Hero 12 is an obvious choice for a travel camera. It's small enough to fit in almost any luggage, takes great photos and videos, and is waterproof, so it'll work even if your trip is outside.

Waterproof means you can take it almost anywhere with you
Shoots high-quality 5.3K video and 27 MP photos
Surprisingly good stabilization
Battery life could be better
While it is versatile, other devices can take better photos

The GoPro Hero 12 is a great first choice for a travel camera. It's an action camera , which means it comes with features you don't find in mirrorless cameras or even most selfie cameras. It can take a bit of a beating without breaking down and is water-resistant. That means it can go almost anywhere, whether in a big city or in the wilderness.

GoPro Hero 12 Black review: The best GoPro yet, but only just

It is capable of taking excellent 5.3K video along with 27MP photos. That's a nice combination if you want to have a mix of both while you're on your travels. The battery life could be better, and it's not the best pure camera on the list, but it does everything well and costs under $500. That's a hard collection of features to get at this price point.

It looks cool and shoots great photos

The Nikon Z fc is a retro-inspired mirrorless camera that is compatible with all of Nikon's latest lenses along with their old ones if you have an adapter. At less than $1,000, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better value for mirrorless cameras.

Takes excellent photos
Fully articulating screen means you need fewer accessories
Less than $1,000 for a mirrorless camera is a decent price
Better at photography than video, but it can do 1080p at 120 FPS
The camera is body only, so you'll need to buy a lens to go with it

There are several great mirrorless cameras out there. The Nikon Z fc is one of them. It offers great photo quality, good video options, and a plethora of lenses to choose from. The selection grows if you get the FTZ adapter, which opens you up to a number of older, less expensive, and third-party lenses for Nikon cameras. This thing is compact, easy to use, and less expensive than many of its competitors. Plus, the articulating screen makes it semi-decent for selfies.

Best mirrorless cameras: Top models from Nikon, Canon, Sony, and more

The only real downside is that there are dozens of great options in this space, especially if you can afford a more expensive camera. Despite smartphones taking over the photography space, mirrorless and DSLR cameras are highly competitive since they still technically take better pictures and have more photography options. Additionally, we have a list of the best mirrorless cameras you can buy if you want to browse further.

About as good as it gets for selfie cameras

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a stick-style selfie camera that works well as a vlogging camera. It takes pictures along with video and has a state-of-the-art gimbal that'll keep you in the center of the frame no matter what.

3-axis stabilization makes footage smooth
Records up to 4K at 120 FPS
The high-tech head can track you at all times
It's very expensive
Not waterproof

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is among the best selfie cameras on the market. It's a stick-style camera that you hold in your hand and point the camera at your subject, which can be you or something else. The unique gimbal-style head also has three-axis stabilization that helps you take steady video and sharp photos. Additionally, it'll keep you in frame while you shoot with it for nearly flawless vlogging .

Best camera lenses for taking action shots: Capture those fleeting moments

It's quite expensive, and that's honestly its biggest detractor. Fortunately, this thing is good enough and versatile enough to justify the price, but we totally understand if it's not for you. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is also a bit more fragile than a lot of other cameras, thanks to all the moving parts. It shoots 4K video at 120 FPS, which is more than most selfie-style cameras. We just don't recommend roughhousing with it too much.

Best you can get for under $2,000

The Sony Alpha 7C is recommended by our very talented videographer and YouTube lead, Cam Bunton. It's a compact, full-frame, mirrorless camera that should fit in your luggage and take great photos.

Compact for a full-frame mirrorless camera
Under $2,000 is very reasonable
Better than the legendary Sony a7III
Not the latest camera in the series
Price is body only, so you'll need to buy a lens

The Sony Alpha 7C , also known as the A7C, is an excellent mirrorless camera from a company that is known for making great cameras. It shoots photos at 24.2 MP along with 4K 30FPS video. Add to that Sony's excellent selection of lenses and processing acumen, and you have a camera you can take with you just about anywhere. It's also more compact than many of its contemporaries, allowing you to carry it in your luggage fairly easily. It's a higher quality camera than the Nikon Z fc we mentioned earlier, but you will pay for it because it's roughly twice as expensive.

Sony A7C review: Taking full-frame to a new level of tiny

There are only two downsides worth discussing. The price above is for the body only, so you'll need to buy a lens. Sony often runs deals where you can get this plus a 28-60mm zoom lens and still keep the price under $2,000. This was also recommended by our head YouTuber and general camera expert, Cam Bunton, so, of course, we're going to recommend it to you, too. If this isn't for you, we have a list of great mirrorless cameras you can also check out.

A great option for under $500

Cameras can get expensive, but they're not all that way. The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a bit older, but it still takes great pictures and decent video for a much more palatable price than most modern cameras. Plus, Canon has a metric ton of lens options for your situation.

Takes very good pictures for its price point
It also does reasonably good 1080p video
Inexpensive camera with lots of lens options
Doesn't have all the features of more expensive cameras
Doesn't have the ruggedness of similarly priced action cameras

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is the least expensive full-size camera on the list, and it's still a great option. At under $500 for the body, that makes it half as expensive as the Nikon Z fc listed above and less than one-third of the price of the Sony. What you get in return is a reasonably competent camera that takes great pictures and reasonably good 1080p video. Canon has a wealth of lenses available, so you can get the one that'll work best for the types of photos you want to take.

Best DSLR cameras: Classic models with lasting appeal

It is missing some of the features of higher-end cameras. The screen doesn't articulate at all, and it's a lower resolution than you'll find on newer, more advanced cameras. It requires a microUSB cable instead of the more modern USB-C. If you don't mind a feature set from yesteryear, you can get a very good camera for a pretty low price. Plus, it's a great starter camera if you've never had something like this before.

Perfect for refrigerators and photo albums

Sometimes retro is the way to go, and the Canon AE-1 is a big name in the analog camera space. It uses 35mm film, which you can develop into photographs just like in the old days.

One of the best analog cameras around
35mm film isn't all that expensive
Great for physical photos
Digital photography has come a very long way
Camera is a bit expensive for what it does

There is a reason so many people my age remember the phrase "it's a Kodak moment", and it's because people really enjoyed taking photos and having them printed out. You can still buy cameras that do that exact thing, and the Canon AE-1 is one of the best. It's compact, solid-feeling, and takes reasonably good pictures. You do lose out on all the advancements made in camera tech, but this also costs less than 10% of some of those more advanced cameras.

Best Canon camera: Classic for a reason

Otherwise, what you see is what you get. You buy this, some 35mm film, load it in, take the pictures, remove the film, and have it developed. Anyone alive in the 1990s has gone through this process before. Once the photos are developed, you can copy them, send them to your friends, put them in a photo album, or even just hang them on the fridge. This is how people captured memories back in the day, and it's a fun retro method to do so today.

Sometimes aerial is the way

Sometimes, the best photos are taken from above. Drone photos can get you shots you can't get with a normal camera. DJI makes a good drone, and the Mini 4 Pro is a decent mix of functionality and affordability, considering these things can cost thousands of dollars.

You can take photos with drones that you can't with normal cameras
DJI makes some excellent drones, and this one is easy to carry
Shoots excellent video as well
Please make sure to check local laws before flying

Aerial photography is becoming a bigger and bigger deal now that drones are more available to the masses. DJI is one of the top makers of consumer-level drones, and the DJI Mini 4 Pro is a good drone. It's still quite expensive, at around $750, but that's a lot cheaper than the company's other drones, including the Mavic and Air models. You still get 4K 60FPS video along with the capability of taking some breathtaking photographs from a place where normal cameras can't go.

DJI Mini 4 Pro review: Aerial perfection

Other than its price, the only downside remains within the law. Countries and even different U.S. states have laws about drone flying. Please remember to check the rules and register your drone accordingly before flying. It can take a bit to learn everything, but it's worth it not to cause any problems later on down the line. Drone cameras are surprisingly good, and DJI has a history of making good cameras.

Or, just use your smartphone

A lot of people use their smartphones as their main cameras now. In fact, smartphone cameras have wiped out the compact camera market almost entirely. That's part of the reason the list above is stocked with higher-end mirrorless and DSLR cameras, along with action cameras and drones. We can't recommend a point-and-shoot camera that's going to match the versatility and image quality of the camera that's sticking out of the back of your phone.

Best camera phones: Handsets that take pro photos and videos

Smartphone manufacturers compete heavily over camera quality, especially Apple, Google, and Samsung. Their flagship devices take outstanding pictures. Midrange devices from OEMs like OnePlus and Motorola can also shoot pretty good photos as well. You can save yourself hundreds, or in cases over $1,000, by just learning how to use the device in your pocket a little better.

Best foldable phones: Expert tested and reviewed

Bottom line: what are the best travel cameras.

For the most part, it really depends on what you're looking for. However, we think that the GoPro Hero 12 is the best option for most people. It's waterproof, it takes good videos and reasonably good photos, and it's compact enough to take almost anywhere. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is another great option, even if it's a bit more fragile, thanks to its many moving parts. You can do far worse than those two, even if they are a bit pricey.

The Nikon Z fc, Sony Alpha 7C, and the Canon EOS Rebel T7 are great options for regular cameras at varying price points. The DJI Mini 4 Pro covers aerial photography, and the smartphone in your pocket is the best budget option since it already has a camera, and you already own one. Fans of retro-tech can take the Canon AE-1 with them along with some 35mm film and do it up old school. In short, you have plenty of choices.

How did we choose these travel cameras?

To start, I've been tech blogging for 15 years and used several cameras throughout my career. I also used to make YouTube videos, so I know a thing or two about how cameras work. Plus, the list was run by Pocket Lint's YouTube guru, Cam Bunton, who vetted the list along with editor Christina Darby. This list passed through a total of three people before it was written. In terms of picks, a few of them were obvious. For example, people use their smartphones as their main cameras. That's just a fact of life. The rest were judgment calls based on the subject, and we think we did a good job.

How to choose a travel camera

The most important thing to know is what you plan to shoot. If you plan on going out into the wilderness, then you should probably take a camera that can handle water and a bit of rough use. Those going to big cities should take a camera that can take great photos of still objects like buildings. In any case, make sure your camera fits in your bag and is in a safe place, like a case of some sort. The nice thing about cameras is that they're all good at specific things, so choosing a specific camera for the task is just a matter. Also, smartphone cameras are good at just about everything, so if you want to take multiple cameras, having your smartphone as a backup is always a good idea.

Can you carry a camera on an airplane?

Yes, you can fly with a camera either on your person or in your checked luggage. You'll have to show it at security checks; otherwise, you're allowed to have them.

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The 10 Best Travel Cameras to Capture All Your Adventures

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What to Consider Before Buying the Best Travel Camera:

Personality : Are you a foodie who snaps a photo of every meal (like me), or a nature lover who loves to birdwatch (and needs a camera with a fast shutter speed to catch fledglings in action)? Vloggers will likely care a lot about a camera’s video-recording capabilities, while adrenaline junkies always on the go might prefer simpler models that are quick to react, even if they tend to generate lower-quality images. Make sure your camera well aligns with your travel persona, whatever it may be.

Durability: How tough does your camera need to be? What are the odds it will get scratched, crushed, or dropped? Most cameras aren’t made to withstand much, but there are some built to survive inclement weather and severe conditions. Depending on your intended use (and how careful you are in general with your stuff), pick a model that suits your habits and needs.

Dimensions: How much do you want to carry? Travel cameras are often described as “lightweight” and “compact,” but those terms can be pretty subjective. Seasoned landscape photographers who are used to toting around multiple lenses, filters, and other accessories might consider a two-pound build as “portable,” while concertgoers who tend to pack super light would probably imagine something more pocket size. Before you buy a camera, make sure you have a solid idea how it’ll look and feel in hand. Product photos online can be deceiving, so it’s best if you try it out in store to guarantee it’s a good fit. And don’t forget to take into account any add-ons (such as batteries and external flashes), which will increase a camera’s overall size and weight.

Best Overall Travel Camera

Sony cybershot rx100 vii camera.

I love my DSLR—but sometimes, it’s too bulky to take everywhere. In that case, I turn to this powerful little guy. If you’re looking for a lightweight pocket camera with all the essentials (and more), this sleek compact model is for you. Great for live performances and events (and for taking food pics!), the ultra-portable device effortlessly produces high-quality photos and videos. Fitted with a touchscreen that rotates 180 degrees (making it perfect for selfies), the user-friendly camera is easy to operate with one hand—so you’ll never have to put down your drink to capture a moment.

Type: Compact. Dimensions: 4 x 1.7 x 2.3 inches. Weight: 10.65 ounces. Sensor: 1-inch, 20.1 megapixels. Lens: 24-200 millimeter F2.8-4.5 lens. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 2,360k dots.

Buy Now on Best Buy: $1,300

Best Travel Camera for Still Photography

Fujifilm x-t5 camera.

Whether you enjoy shooting portraits, wildlife, or streetscapes, this marvelous mirrorless camera—which comes with a weatherproof lens that ranges from wide-angle to medium-telephoto—is a valuable one to have in your photography arsenal. Lighter than its predecessor, the ergonomic model, whose in-body image stabilization system aptly minimizes shaking, produces outstanding JPEGs with incredible detail and less noise than its competitors.

Type: Compact. Dimensions: 14.3 x 2.8 x 9.9 inches (unfolded). Weight: 8.8 ounces. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 40.2 megapixels. Lens: 16-80 millimeter f/4-22 lens. Display: 3-inch touchscreen LCD display, 1,840k dots.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $2,199

Best Rugged Travel Camera

Olympus om system tough tg-7 camera.

The best handheld for hard-core adventurers, this ultra-durable, featherweight camera can weather all the elements. Featuring anti-fog and impermeable to dust and water (up to 50 feet deep), the newly updated model can sustain getting crushed by a 220-pound force, survive a seven-foot drop, and won’t stop working in the cold—so you can truly take it anywhere. To boot, the point-and-shoot has five underwater modes and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth—not to mention 4K video for high-speed recordings.

Type: Compact. Dimensions: 4.48 x 2.59 x 1.28 inches. Weight: 8.78 ounces. Sensor: 1/1.3-inch, 12 megapixels. Lens: 25-100 millimeter f/2-4.9 lens. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 1,040k dots.

Buy Now on Amazon: $550

Best Travel Camera for Landscape Photographers

Nikon d780 dslr camera.

Capture high-resolution stills and full-HD videos with this versatile camera (my must-have on scenic trips). The popular model features excellent subject tracking and an impressive battery life—plus, it works extremely well in low light. Built-in Wifi and Bluetooth allow you to instantaneously transfer files to your drive on the go, and dual SD card slots guarantee you’ll never run out of memory while snapping photos in the wild.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $2,797

Best Rangefinder Travel Camera

Leica m10-r camera.

Known for meticulously crafting products using precision engineering (by hand ), Leica has well earned its reputation for delivering high-quality cameras around the globe. The German brand’s M10-R is the paragon of a modern-day rangefinder, offering razor-sharp focus and unparalleled image quality. The quiet operator has an extended shutter speed range that allows you to make exposures up to 16 minutes long at night and in low light. And the camera’s compact body is made from solid blocks of brass and magnesium alloy that’s rubber sealed to keep out dust and water, ensuring durability.

Type: Rangefinder. Dimensions: 5.5 x 1.5 x 3.1 inches. Weight: 23.28 ounces. Sensor: Full-frame CMOS, 40.89 megapixels. Lens: Not included. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 1,036k dots.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $8,995

Best Instant Travel Camera

Mint camera slr670-s instant film camera.

There’s something extra fun about shooting with a vintage Polaroid. Mint Camera’s revamp of the classic SX-70 preserves its iconic folding design, though it comes with a few handy updates, including the ability to adjust exposure using a brightness control wheel. The external Time Machine module provides complete control over the camera’s shutter speeds, and an improved SLR viewfinder offers sharper manual focus.

Type: Instant. Dimensions: 4.21 x 7.09 x 1.69 inches. Weight: 21.16 ounces. Sensor: N/A. Lens: 116 millimeter f/1.7 lens. Display: N/A.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $879

Best Advanced Compact Travel Camera

Leica q2 camera.

More experienced shutterbugs will appreciate this intuitive device, equipped with an updated sensor design and image processor. The dynamic gadget boasts a magnesium alloy body that can withstand harsh conditions, an ultrabroad ISO sensitivity range (50–50,000), high-speed full-HD video recording, wireless sharing, and a touchscreen display that lets you focus on a subject with just a tap.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $5,198

Best Travel Camera for Night Photography

Pentax k-70 camera.

Sensor-shift image stabilization, a complex autofocus system, and fantastic interval shooting modes make this camera more than ideal for shooting in the dark. (Pentax’s Star Stream mode—which makes a movie out of stills by stacking them over time—is superb for capturing twinklers in the sky.) And the easy-to-grip camera boasts a weatherized body, making it impervious to water and highly resistant to the cold.

Type: DSLR. Dimensions: 2.9 x 4.9 x 3.7 inches. Weight: 32 ounces. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 24.24 megapixels. Lens: 55-135 millimeter f/3.5-22 lens. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 921k dots.

Buy Now on Amazon: $897

Best Drone Travel Camera

Dji mini 3 pro drone camera.

This mini drone is excellent for capturing breathtaking aerial scenes. The lightweight flyer fares well in the wind, and has a collision-avoidance feature that guarantees a smooth landing. The smart model also comes with an easy-to-use remote controller with an oversize screen, so you can always see what you’re shooting.

Type: Drone. Dimensions: 14.3 x 2.8 x 9.9 inches (unfolded). Weight: 8.8 ounces. Sensor: 1/1.3-inch, 48 megapixels. Lens: 24 millimeter f/1.7 lens. Display: 5.5-inch LCD display, 2,037k dots.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $909

Best Action Travel Camera

Gopro hero12 black camera.

For high-quality POV shots, there’s nothing better than a GoPro—and the brand’s latest Hero12 doesn’t disappoint. Waterproof up to 33 feet and equipped with a cold-resistant battery, the tiny-but-mighty machine touts a slew of cool features including Hindsight, which starts recording up to 30 seconds before you hit the shutter button—and Scheduled Capture, which will automatically switch on and snap a shot up to 24 hours in advance. The Max Lens Mod 2.0 add-on, which boasts an ultra-wide, 177-degree field of view that shoots in 4K60—is well worth the extra splurge.

Buy Now on GoPro: $400

Kristin Tablang is a writer and editor based in New York City, whose work has appeared in Forbes, Haute Living, and House Beautiful. An avid foodie and photographer, she'd travel the world with…

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Best Travel Camera for your Photography Adventures

Need the best travel camera to take on your next trip? Lightweight, high performance and affordable - this in-depth guide reveals the 6 top options!

Camera Gear Guides | Camera Guides | By Mark Condon | Last Updated: April 11, 2024

Finding the best travel camera has been something of a never-ending quest of mine over the years.

Whether I’m travelling to shoot a destination wedding or simply on holiday with my wife and kids, I always try and carry some form of camera in my travel bag.

Offers incredible autofocus and amazing image quality in a compact, affordable body.

Even though you still see the odd tourist sweating under the weight of a bulky DSLR and zoom lens, the savvy traveller knows that the latest mirrorless cameras deliver the same image quality at a fraction of the size.

Capturing photos whilst travelling is essential, and having something small and lightweight to do it with is the goal.

Sure, everyone’s got a smartphone in their pocket that’s up to the job, but a dedicated camera for travel blogging is far superior.

If you really value your holiday memories, trust me – invest in a good travel camera. Ensure your new experiences are captured perfectly, for you and your family to enjoy for years to come.

Now, let’s look at the best travel cameras here in 2024.

Don’t miss our essential travel photography tips

Table of Contents

Best Travel Cameras in 2024

Remember, all these recommendations are cameras that I can imagine the average person who cares about the quality of their images taking on holiday with them.

They’re not absolute bargain basement prices, (although I do include my choice of the best budget travel camera), and similarly, they’re not priced solely for the realm of pros.

Each camera will blow your smartphone out the water in terms of image quality and features, and teach you the fundamentals of photography at the same time… without being a pain in the a** to use.

In short, these are the cameras I’d recommend to any good friend who needs something to record all the precious memories on their next trip.

1. Sony a6400 | All Round Best Travel Camera

See More Reviews

Type: Mirrorless APS-C sensor camera Megapixels: 24.2 Size: 4.72 x 2.64 x 2.36 (120 x 67 x 60 mm) Weight: 403 g (0.89 lb) More Info: Sony a6400 Review

This is by far the best camera for travel photography.

The Sony APS-C sensor a6 series has been the best selling mirrorless cameras in history. Releasing what seems like a new camera body each year, it can be rather confusing which one to choose.

Last year, I spent a month with the Sony a6400 – despite newer models existing (a6100 and a6600), the a6400 is still the best bang for your buck travel camera, here in 2024.

Looks-wise, it’s hard to tell the a6400 from any of the other versions, although there’s a lot that’s changed since its predecessors.

The Sony a6400 boasts a much-improved build quality, with the standout feature of a touch-enabled, 180 degree rotating LCD screen – much to the delight of vloggers and the selfie crowd .

There are surprisingly few cameras that offer a front-facing LCD screen, but the a6400 handles this gracefully, allowing for some creative composition options while travelling.

This is one of several features that put the a6400 ahead of my previous choice of top travel camera of the year – the Fujifilm X100F ( review ), that offered no such LCD swivelling.

Another stand out feature is the best-in-class AutoFocus, which offers a frankly mind-blowing 425 phase-detects points, Real-time Eye AF (which also works on animals!), and Real-time tracking for moving subjects – it also works really well in a studio environment with static subjects.

Great wide-angle with shallow depth of field by using the Sony a6400 + Sony FE 28mm f/2 | 1/4000 f/2 ISO100.

The a6400 also continues the trend of 11FPS with continuous AF, much like the first model which was released over 5 years ago.

To say that this is a camera that can handle the most demanding focusing situations while traveling would be an understatement.

A couple of years ago, Sony unveiled its flagship full frame mirrorless camera, the a9. Those that could afford it were blown away by its auto-focus abilities… and now the same technology is available in the Sony a6400 – a camera a fraction its size, and its price. This is absolutely incredible!

We’re not talking about video features in this roundup since we’re all stills photographers here, but I can’t help but mention that the 4k recording is excellent on the a6400, and coupled with the front-facing screen, a real hit for vloggers … (although investing in this SmallRig is advised if you want to use an on-camera mic – see video below).

Like its two predecessors, the Sony Alpha a6400 features the same gorgeous 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor, but thanks to a front-end LSI and the latest BIONZ X image processor, Sony claims processing speeds that are 1.8x faster.

In practice, this relates to a faster ‘buffer’, which means that the Sony a6400 can keep shooting 11fps for 46 RAW+JOG, 49 RAW, or 114 JPG shots.

When testing with one of my fastest memory cards , the buffer took a rather sluggish 40 seconds to clear that many shots, but I imagine it’d be rare to need to shoot so many photos in one go while on holiday.

Another reason why the a6400 is the top camera for travel of the year is its image quality, which is on par with full frame cameras twice its price.

While die-hard Fujifilm camera fans will prefer the straight-out-of-camera colours of the Fuji sensor, the Sonys still manage to produce great-looking images, full of contrast and punch.

The a6400 does a great job on Auto-White Balance, and results all the way up to ISO 6400 still look great, with minimal in-camera noise-reduction.

If you’re a pro photographer or an amateur with deep pockets, obviously investing in a full frame (35mm sensor) camera will be better in low light, and give you the ability to shoot your lenses at their native focal lengths (APS-C sensors have a ‘crop factor’, which multiplies the lens’ length).

However, the benefits of the APS-C format far outweigh full frame for travelling, namely cost, size (of camera body/lens) and all-round practicality.

Paired with a great Sony travel lens like the 24mm f/1.8 , you’ll have an equivalent 36mm field of view – perfect for documentary-style travel photography.

[Related: best Sony a6400 lenses .]

Being able to shoot at 36mm with the Sony a6400, you’ll be able to capture everything from landscapes to people without distortion, while being able to fit enough in the frame to tell the complete story of your holiday.

(If your budget can’t stretch to the 24mm, the Sony 20mm f/2.8 is a more affordable option, which has the added benefits as a pancake lens of making the a6400 compact enough to slip in a jacket pocket.)

4k video compact cameras for travel photography

Sony a6400 + Sony 28mm f/2 FE is also a great combination.

With this versatile setup, the blazing auto focus performance, and first-class image quality, the Sony a6400 is in my mind the best compact travel camera for professional photographers who need something smaller than their main body.

Not only can it comfortably be used for professional work, but it’s also beginner-friendly enough to hand to another tourist for a quick self-shot… although with the flip-forward screen, you can do it yourself.

Price-wise, at around $1,000, this is a definitely a premium crop sensor camera but could be priced much more based on the impressive features included, especially since it also shoots video in 4k.

Check out these Sony a6400 bundles for some great freebies when purchasing, like camera bags, travel tripods , spare batteries and cards.

As is typical with Sonys, there are tons of features somewhat hidden in the confusing menu, but when you have the a6400 set up as you want, you can use the physical camera buttons and dials 99% of the time. I also really like being able to focus and shoot just by touching the screen – perfect for remaining inconspicuous while travelling.

Is the a6400 better than the a6500 ? Yes. Is it worth twice the price of the a6000? Definitely.

Ladies and gentlemen, this is one of the best APS-C sensor cameras available right now, and rightly deserves a place in your travel bag.

2. Fujifilm X100V | Highly Recommended

bes travel camera fuji x100V no zoom range no 4k video camera for photography

Type: X-Trans CMOS IV and X Processor Pro Megapixels: 26.1 Size: (W) 128.0mm x (H) 74.8mm x (D) 53.3mm / (W) 5.04″ x (H) 2.94″ x ((D) 2.01″ Weight: 478g (16.9oz) More Info: Fuji X100V Review

I’ve used 3 of the past 4 iterations of the Fujfilm X100 series cameras, and now can whole-heartedly recommend the Fujifilm X100V.

Regardless of if you’re a pro or not, this is a great camera to take on holiday with you. (I also recommended it as the best compact camera .)

Running through my criteria, the price is the only area that may put some people off – at around $1,400 (click here to find today’s price) , it’s clearly an investment.

In my mind though, this is actually great value for a camera that can produce such incredible image quality in such a compact body.

The size and weight of the Fujifilm X100V is what I consider to be perfect for a travel camera. It’s easily pocketable if you are wearing a jacket, and is just as comfortable worn around the neck on a strap.

It’s just the right size/weight to be pleasurable to use , whilst still remaining discreet when carried on a camera strap behind your body.

What’s more, you can carry this camera all day long and experience no annoyance or fatigue, although the grip could definitely be a bit ‘grippier’!

I use a Gordy wrist strap just to ensure against accidental drops and find that’s enough – you might prefer a shoulder strap though, so check out some of the best camera straps to see what would be right for you.

The flip-out touchscreen on the X100V is well implemented and a pleasure to use.

Moving on to image quality, and this is where the Fujifilm X100V really excels.

The whole range of Fujifilm X series mirrorless cameras are very popular at the moment for their stellar image quality in smaller bodies, and I recommend another Fuji in this list.

Fujifilm lenses are top-notch, but you won’t need any of them with the fixed-lens X100V…

I find that the brand new 23mm f/2 version 2 fixed lens on the Fujifilm X100FV is actually sharper than any of the other interchangeable X-series lens options in 2024.

I also love being restricted to only one focal length (35mm equivalent), especially when travelling.

The fixed focal length of the Fuji X100V is a draw-card over other similarly priced mirrorless travel cameras – its simplicity is what defines it, and will help you improve as a photographer, while making your travel bag much lighter to boot.

When taking a camera on holiday, it’s tempting to bring lots of lenses with you. “What if I need to photograph a whale from a boat… I’ll need a zoom lens! And what if I need to shoot a mountain range… I’ll need my best wide-angle lens !” …etc.

Don’t do it! Taking photos on holiday is meant to be fun, and with the weight and worry of multiple lenses , it definitely won’t be… especially if children are involved!

1/340 f/2 ISO100 | Straight out of camera, Pro Neg Film Simulation

150% crop – very impressive sharpness and detail from the new 23mm f/2 lens.

The Fujifilm X100V features a new fixed focal length 35mm equivalent lens with an f/2 aperture. This is flexible enough to shoot anything from portraits to landscapes, and the f/2 means you’ll be able to blur the background and/or shoot in low light without a flash.

Then there’s the new tilting LCD touch screen which allows you to get more candid travel photos , with a tap-to-shoot function that makes capturing incognito images a cinch.

Touchscreen implementation is excellent, with all the pinch-to-zoom/double-tap gestures you’re already used to from your smartphone.

Wifi transfers are fun with the free Fujifilm Cam Remote app, and allow you to wirelessly backup and/or share images taken on your holidays.

Other notable features that contribute to great image quality and flexibility are an inbuilt ND filter (allowing you to create a beautifully blurred background behind your subject even in bright sunlight); fast and precise autofocus (meaning no more blurry/missed shots); brilliant ISO (shoot at night with no flash); and something magical called the X-Trans sensor which means that a camera such as the Fujifilm X100V with a smaller ‘APS-C’ sized sensor can keep up with the big (full-frame sensor) boys!

I also love the 17 film-simulation modes, which apply Instagram-like effects to your images which accurately imitate popular Fuji film stock from days gone by.

You’d be forgiven for thinking this was taken by a 35mm film camera, but it’s actually the ‘Pro Neg’ film simulation of the X100V.

I love the ability to shoot confidently in JPEG, knowing that I won’t be spending hours editing RAWs in front of my computer.

Shooting in RAW + JPEG allows you the choice of increased dynamic range in post-production with the RAW file, but honestly, this is a camera that begs to be shot JPEG-only.

Wirelessly uploading straight-out-of-camera JPEGs to your devices, then to social media is a huge workflow time-saver, and the gorgeous film-simulation modes make editing a thing of the past.

Another great feature of the Fujifilm X100V is the fast autofocus system, which offers effective face and eye detection.

This is especially hand when shooting fidgety children – it’s spookily accurate!

I leave the camera on single-point focus and allow it to recognise faces in the frame, so I can capture any moment quickly and easily.

‘Design’ or ‘aesthetics’ isn’t one of my criteria for finding the best travel camera as it’s entirely subjective.

However, I should add that the Fujifilm X100V is the best looking camera I’ve ever seen. For me, it’s even more beautiful than a Leica, and there are a ton of great Fuji accessories with which to make it look even prettier!

Related: What are the best lenses for travel photography?

The Fujifilm X100 series of cameras have always come in either silver/black or all black. Both have a unique film camera styling to them and the all-black model is especially discreet. It attracts no unwanted eyes since it’s easy to miss, but to the trained eye, it always attracts compliments :-)

Ah, one more thing I love about this camera – you can charge it via your laptop’s USB port or a battery pack, meaning one less battery charger to carry.

If you’re ready to invest in a camera for travel that has image quality so good that it can even be used professionally, I highly recommend the Fujifilm X100V. The best travel camera for professional photographers and beginners alike.

3. Olympus OM-D E-M10 M ark III

Type: Mirrorless micro four-thirds sensor camera Megapixels: 16 Size: 122 x 84 x 50 mm (4.8 x 3.31 x 1.97″) Weight: 410 g (14.46 oz) More Info: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III Review

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is a smaller, lighter, newer and more affordable version of a camera I named the OMD-EM5 Mark II. It was the camera I used for travel before I bought the Fuji mentioned above.

One thing to mention right off the bat is that the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is an inter-changeable lens camera.

The price of around $650 is actually great value, but it’s for the body only, so you’ll also need to invest in a lens.

There’s a camera + lens bundle option available here which is perfect for most people, but if you want to really make the most of the Olympus’ stellar image quality, I’d recommend you invest an M.Zuiko 17mm f/1.8 lens – it’s a 35mm equivalent lens suitable for everything from portraits to landscapes, can be shot in low light, and produces great blurred backgrounds for subject separation.

(Check out the best micro four-thirds lenses for more options that work well on this camera.)

Using the Olympus O-MD E-M10 Mark III in combination with M.Zuiko 17mm f/1.8 allows you to blur foreground and background elements easily. Black and white in-camera JPEG conversion applied.

I’d recommend you steer clear of bulky zoom lenses, since this defeats the object of having a small camera for travel.

The size and weight of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is perfect even for larger hands, and can be carried effortlessly around the neck.

So with price and size/weight accounted for in my aforementioned list of criteria, let’s move on to that all important image quality.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III uses a 16 mega pixel micro four thirds sensor which produces amazing image quality for such a small sensor.

When shot in JPEG format, images are sharp, vibrant and contrasty, although this will depend on your in-camera settings and lens choice of course.

There’s also the option of RAW for those who enjoy more flexibility in editing photos after shooting.

Olympus E-M10 Mark III | 1/200 at f/3.5 ISO 200 | © Meg Loeks

Another stand out feature of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is the auto-focus. In practice, I’ve found the 121-point auto-focus to be even faster than my pro-grade dSLR which costs twice the price. It’s also the fastest auto-focus of any of the cameras on this list.

You can actually focus and shoot just by touching the screen on the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III, which swivels to allow for more creative and convenient framing of your shot.

I know I said I wouldn’t dwell on individual camera features outside of my main criteria, but let me just say that the combination of lightning fast auto-focus and swivelling touch-to-shoot LCD screen is the number one reason you should consider buying this camera – it really is that good, and makes photography a lot of fun .

Silent shooting mode is also invaluable when trying to get candid photos of the kids, or when shooting locals whilst travelling – often it’s important to remain as discrete as possible, and this camera allows you to do this, all while shooting from the hip with the flip-out screen.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III has plenty of manual control features that I won’t go into here, but even if you leave the camera on an Auto setting and just prod the screen to take photos, it’s entirely worth the cost. I wish every camera had this functionality!

Medium-high ISO on the Olympus O-MD E-M10 Mark III is impressive for a camera of this size. This was shot at ISO1600 in almost pitch darkness on a plane and retains accurate colours and little noise.

Another unique feature of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is the 5-Axis image stabilisation. This works great for video recording, giving you smooth, Steadycam-like footage.

For still images, it allows you to hand hold the camera at much slower shutter speeds than normal , meaning cleaner, sharper low light photos thanks to the ability to lower your ISO.

16.1 megapixels is more than enough to print out your images as wall art, but it’s worth remembering that all micro-four-third sensor cameras such as this Olympus will record photos in the 4:3 ratio, probably different to what you’re used to.

You can ‘force’ the camera to shoot at a more standard 3:2 ratio by cropping the image (which is what I did for all the sample photos here).

Overall, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is a great-looking, lightweight, compact and robust camera that offers some unique features and excellent performance, making it perfect for travel .

It’s available in discreet all-black or a retro silver-black option that’s equally sexy. I highly recommend it as a camera to document your next trip.

4. Ricoh GR III | Best Pocketable Travel Camera

Type: APS-C sensor pocket camera Megapixels: 16.9 Size: 4.6 x 2.5 x 1.4 in. (117 x 63 x 35 mm) Weight: 251 g (0.55 lb)

I tested the previous generation of this camera a few years back, and while I found the image quality impressive for its size, the sluggish autofocus performance annoyed me. Thankfully, with the GRIII, Ricoh has made a much snappier experience with the Ricoh GRIII.

It also offers a new 24MP sensor (a significant resolution boost), a sharper lens with macro capabilities, a hybrid autofocus system, better battery life, image stabilisation and even a nice and responsive touchscreen.

The 3-axis sensor stabilisation is great, and worth the additional money for the III over the II – I was able to take handheld shots with a shutter speed as slow as 1/2 second, allowing me to blur motion without the use of a tripod!

This is a great feature when you’re travelling, and want to take a photo at a crowded tourist attraction – now you can blur out people walking by, to remove them as a distraction and create a more engaging photo.

The touchscreen on the Ricoh GRIII is great – snappy and responsive , with a tap-to-focus-and-shoot function, which all cameras should have. It allows for the inconspicuous photos – perfect for incognito travel photography.

Image quality is excellent , and I particularly like the colours from the JPEGs. I like shooting in Vivid Mode, with the contrast increased for some additional punch, like in the photo of our son Harry throwing a paper aeroplane below.

I love the JPEG colours straight out of the Ricoh GRIII on Vivid setting | 1/400 f/2.8 ISO200

RAW quality is also impressive, with a decent amount of dynamic range from the APS-C sensor. If you’re coming from the previous version, there are 8 additional mega pixels, which helps to make images sharper and give you the ability to crop.

The 18.3mm (28mm equivalent) lens’ width is unchanged from the GRII, which is good news – 28mm is fun and easy to shoot , with minimal distortion, and provides a unique perspective which can immerse the viewer into the shot, without feeling too wide.

As for the design and ergonomics, this is what I love the most about the Ricoh GRIII – minimal branding, buttons that blend into the body, and a rubberised grip that’s moulded perfectly to your fingers. You’ll slip by virtually unnoticed when using this on holiday, allowing you to capture candid moments of locals or your family. Definitely not your typical “tourist camera”.

The Ricoh GRIII is one of the smallest cameras I’ve used, but it still retains excellent ergonomics , which isn’t an easy task. I love the fact that I can slip it into my shirt pocket, and I hardly know it’s there – it really is light as a feather.

The Ricoh GRIII is truly pocketable, and so light you’ll barely notice it there.

The grip on the front of the Ricoh GRIII is sticky and moulded enough to allow you to use the camera one-handed all day long, in landscape or portrait orientation.

The battery life could be better (I got around 280 shots per charge), and I do wish the touchscreen rotated, but other than that, there’s not much to complain about the design itself.

Focusing in really low light was sometimes troublesome, with the AF point hunting back and forth to find the subject. On the flip side, in bright sunlight, the glossy LCD screen (and lack of viewfinder) made it a little hard to see too.

However, these are all minor niggles on a really enjoyable camera that takes fantastic photos, with minimal editing required, all for an impressively affordable price.

Don’t let the Ricoh GRIII be the camera you’ve never heard of! It’s a truly unique product, and one that deserves a lot more of the limelight than it receives.

5. Sony a6000 | Best Budget Travel Camera

Type: Mirrorless APS-C sensor camera Megapixels: 16 Size: 4.72 x 2.64 x 1.77″ (120 x 67 x 45 mm) Weight: 0.76 lb (344 g) More Info: Sony a6000 Review

If your budget can’t quite stretch to the other offerings in this guide, don’t despair – the Sony a6000 is still the best budget travel camera money can buy.

I say ‘still’ since this is a camera that’s over 5 years old… but don’t let that put you off. It’s also the best selling mirrorless camera in the world.

For the incredible price of around $400 (latest price here ) for the body only, you can get one of the many lens bundles for a little bit more and have yourself an amazing set up, ready to take on your next travels.

You can check out my full review and selection of the best lenses for the Sony a6000 , but the long and short of it is this:

The Sony a6000 remains the best bang for the buck camera for travel in 2024. No other camera offers such high image quality and lightning fast auto-focus in such a compact body, for such a bargain price.

At only 0.76 lb (344 g) and as pocketable as a smart phone, the balance and portability set it apart from bulkier inter-changeable lens offerings, but you need to be careful when pairing it with the range of Sony e mount lenses .

My choice of lens to go with the Sony Alpha a6000 for taking on holiday would always be the Sony 20mm f/2.8 – a ‘pancake’ lens with proportions that makes the camera an absolute joy to use .

It’s a 30mm equivalent field of view, meaning its wide enough for most things you’ll encounter whilst travelling, but can still be used for portraits.

Sony-a6000-affordable camera for travel-1

Sony a6000 + Sony 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 | 1/320 at f/5.6 ISO 3200 | Image quality is crisp and clear even at ISO 3200

Whatever lens you choose for the Sony Alpha a6000, the image quality is excellent , especially when you consider the camera’s sensor is ‘only’ APS-C size.

Colours are vibrant and details are sharp in JPEG format, and the RAW files provide adequate dynamic range to push/pull your images, squeezing every last drop of editable data from them.

Things really start to impress when shooting at higher ISOs, with photos being relatively clean even up to ISO 25,000.

In practice, this means you can take photos at night just by using the ambient light around you. On holiday, this is great since it means you won’t draw unwanted attention to yourself whilst shooting without a flash.

At its launch, the auto-focus on the Sony Alpha a6000 with its 179 phase-detect focus points spanning almost the entire area of the viewfinder, would have been considered class-leading. Here in 2024, the several successors to this camera boast many more focus points, but this is not really an issue- 179 focus points is more than enough for most situations.

Either way, the AF on the a6000 is able to effectively track fast subjects at up to 11 frames-per-second – truly remarkable for a camera at this price and much faster than most DSLRs .

Sony a6000 + Sony 85mm f/1.8 FE | 1/250 at f/1.8 ISO100

Having such fast auto-focus and frame rate on a camera makes it great for travel to capture images of locals whilst whizzing past on a bus, or simply to get a shot in focus of your child jumping into the pool.

Another neat feature is the WiFi and NFC connectivity , which allows you to share your travel photos to social media, transferring them from your camera straight to your smartphone or tablet.

This is ideal whilst travelling, meaning you don’t need to bring your bulky laptop.

One slight drawback with the a6000 (and indeed, any Sony mirrorless camera ), is the confusing menu. However, once you’ve set the functions up to your liking, you can reach all the main functions by using the camera’s physical buttons, which are all in easy reach.

With the right lens for you attached to it, the Sony Alpha a6000 is a great budget camera for travel and definitely deserves its place on this list.

If you only have around $500 to spend, you’ll be getting a camera that can run rings around your smartphone’s camera, while still being able to fit inside a jacket pocket.

6. Canon G9 X Mark II

G9 X Mark II BEST TRAVEL CAMERA canon powershot with zoom and video

Type: CMOS sensor pocket camera Megapixels: 20.2 Size: 3.9 x 2.3 x 1.2 in (9.8 x 5 x 3 cm) Weight: 206 g (0.45 lbs)

As another affordable camera for travel, the Canon G9 X Mark II is a great little point and shoot camera to consider for your next trip.

For under 500 bucks, you’re getting impressive image performance from a camera that’s small and light enough to have in your pocket all day long.

At only 0.45 lbs (206 g), the Canon G9 X Mark II is the lightest camera on this list. However, it also has the smallest sensor (CMOS) out of all the other cameras – so why have I included it here? Small sensor = crap image quality, right?!

Well, not quite. The sensor is actually much bigger than that one found in even the most high-end smartphone, and with a better lens and image processor to ensure the Canon G9 X Mark II can do things your phone simply cannot.

Similar to the Ricoh mentioned above, the Canon G9 X Mark II doesn’t have a viewfinder, meaning you’ll have to rely on the touch LCD screen. Fortunately, it’s bright and sharp and 3″ in size to ensure you won’t be squinting.

A combination of fast auto-focus and impressive low light performance enables the Canon G9 X Mark II to capture images like this without using flash .

Some people love touchscreens but some prefer physical buttons. Whilst the Canon G9 X Mark II features a few buttons for the most needed functions, you’ll have to use the touch screen to access everything else, even moving the focus point. Less buttons does mean less chance of buttons sticking though, which can happen after frequent travels with a camera.

The Canon G9 X Mark II features a 28-84mm equivalent lens with an f/2 – 4.9 aperture. Since this zoom lens adds no bulk to the body of the camera and remains lightweight, I have no hesitation in recommending this Canon as a good camera for travel.

28-84mm means wide-angle focal length to medium telephoto. In practice, I was able to shoot any landscape image with ease, then quickly get a close-up shot of passing wildlife. Shooting at 84mm when your subject is relatively close will also put the background nicely out of focus too (‘bokeh’).

f/2 means that the Canon G9 X Mark II does well in low light and can blur the background and/or foreground nicely, depending on how close you are to the subject.

When shot at f/2, the Canon G9 X Mark II is able to produce pleasing bokeh (blurred foreground and background elements) similar to a camera with a much bigger sensor.

As for image quality, the DIGIC 7 image processor used by the Canon G9 X Mark II ensures that JPEGs are very impressive for a camera this small. RAW images are decent too, offering some flexibility during post-processing.

Personally, post-processing is the last thing I want to do after a holiday with the family, but it’s nice to know there’s RAW functionality there if needed.

The Canon G9 X Mark II also offers Auto ISO, a nice addition to a compact camera at this price point. The ISO range is 125-12800, but I’d only feel comfortable using a maximum of ISO1600 to ensure the clearest photo possible.

In practice this means that with Auto ISO applied, you can comfortably let the camera decide when to raise and lower ISO from morning to dusk. After that, you’ll need to rely on the camera’s flash.

Speaking of the flash, it’s a little on the slow side to recharge. Also, on battery life, the Canon G9 X Mark II can only manage around 240 shots per charge. I find I rarely shoot more than 200 photos per day whilst travelling, but if you’ve got a heavy shutter finger, you might want to pick up a couple of spare batteries.

When shooting long exposures with the Canon G9 X mark II, especially in cold climates, battery life will be even shorter.

Compact cameras at this price point usually struggle with auto-focus, especially those with zoom lenses. Thankfully, the Canon G9 X Mark II is surprisingly fast to acquire focus on both static and moving subjects.

As I mentioned at the start of the review, auto-focus speed was a primary concern for me when compiling this list. Many cameras have excellent image quality but have slow auto-focus, so I left them out of this review.

The Canon G series has been a long-time favourite of amateur photographers, and the Canon G9 X Mark II is a solid travel camera at an affordable price.

In image quality stakes, it definitely can’t keep up with the others on this list, but it’s still more than adequate for the average family holiday. The zoom lens also offers great flexibility for those who are too lazy to move their feet…!

Travel Camera Buyer’s Guide

Haven’t got time to read through all my recommendations? Here’s the long and short of it:

📸 Only got $500 to spend? Get this renewed Sony a6000 with 16-50mm Power Zoom .

📸 Want the latest technology under $1,000? Get this Sony a6400 with 16-50mm Power Zoom .

📸 Don’t want the fuss of changing lenses? Get the Fujfilm X100V .

📸 Want a camera with the most affordable lenses? Get the Olympus OM-D EM10 Mark III .

📸 Just want the best small camera for travel regardless of price? Get the megapixel monster Sony a7RIII .

📸 Want the smallest travel camera you can slip in a shirt pocket? Get the excellent Ricoh GRIII .

I’ve shot with all these cameras and can assure you that whichever one you pick, it’ll serve you well on your next trip.

In all honesty, there’s no such thing as the best travel camera, since any modern camera could be considered the ‘best’, depending on your wants and needs.

You’ll just have to decide what criteria are most important to you when going shopping, so let’s take a closer look at that now.

How to Choose a Travel Camera

If your camera needs its own bag, it’s probably not right for travel!

In this article, I make recommendations on what I believe to be the top travel camera of the year (so far), between $500~1,500.

Too many guides tell you that the best travel camera is some $2,000+ full frame model combined with a $1,000+ lens… this just isn’t realistic for the average traveler.

I wanted to create a guide that’s for the average person going on holiday, wanting a camera to capture some great-looking photos, but not wanting to spend more than their whole holiday on it!

I recommend that you check the 5 main criteria I used to evaluate all the different cameras on the market, and see which ones are most important to you.

While I don’t want to advocate spending a fortune on a camera, it has to be said that you do get what you pay for when it comes to technology.

Yes, you can spend under $500 on a camera and produce some beautiful images, but investing a little more is advisable – not necessarily on the camera itself, but on the camera and some lenses.

However, to feel comfortable travelling with a camera, it can’t be too expensive either. I concentrated on cameras under $1,500 for this post, with a range of prices to suit all wallets.

2. Size/Weight

Great image quality used to come at a compromise to size/weight, but thanks to the advancements in sensor quality, this is no longer the case.

That said, there still comes a point where you may need to attach a bit of bulk to your compact travel camera, aka a lens.

While there are some excellent ‘fixed lens’ point and shoot cameras available that I recommend, being able to swap lenses can open up some creative opportunities , not to mention be more versatile while traveling.

The best camera to travel with is usually one that can be slipped into a pocket (compact cameras), or worn on a shoulder – definitely not something that requires a bulky DSLR camera backpack .

3. Image Quality

There are cameras under $200 that are lightweight and small, but they also only have average image quality – usually similar to your smartphone.

The travel cameras I’ve recommended here all have great image quality , for those once in a lifetime sights you see on holiday, or to capture your child’s face at Disneyland for the first time! This is one criterion that you really can’t ignore.

4. Auto Focus

It’s really important for a travel camera to have fast and accurate auto-focus . This allows you to get your shot and move on, leaving you to enjoy your holiday rather than worrying about whether your last photo was in focus.

The auto focus on smartphones is getting better, but it’ll still be years before they come close to the cameras featured here.

5. Flexibility

Waterproof cameras that function 50m underwater; zoom cameras that can see to the moon; shock-proof cameras that can survive an elephant stampede… and any other specific usage so-called cameras always sacrifice one of the above criteria, usually image quality. These are not good travel cameras.

For this post, I’m only interested in the cameras that are flexible enough to be used effectively in multiple situations that you may find yourself on holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best travel camera in 2024?

There are a few good options, but we believe the Sony a6400 offers the best bang for your buck this year. Coupled with a lightweight prime or zoom lens, you can capture amazing images or 4k video on your next trip.

Is it worth buying a camera for travel?

Yes, definitely! Despite smartphones getting better and better each year, a dedicated camera is still the best option, especially when it comes to preserving your travel memories.

What should I look for in a travel camera?

Size, weight, battery life, ruggedness, auto-focus speed, image quality and price are all important criteria when shopping for a travel camera.

Travelling with a Camera | Final Words

Don’t ever let me catch you on holiday with one of these hanging around your neck…!

I hope you enjoyed my roundup of what I believe to be the best cameras for travel in 2024. When you’ve just spent hundreds of dollars on a holiday, I know it’s tempting to skimp a little on camera purchases. After all, you’ve got your iPhone, right?!

However, I’m a strong believer in getting the best quality image every time you take a photo , as well as having a camera that’s enjoyable and convenient to use.

For photos of your loved ones on holiday right down to photos of the mountain you just skied down, capture those memories in all their glory by investing in a great camera for travel.

I have access to some of the best dSLR camera equipment available, but I’d never dream of using those big, bulky cameras for travel. I’ll also leave my expensive full frame mirrorless camera at home too – there’s no point risking something that value when on holiday.

Safe travels and happy snapping!

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Mark Condon is a British wedding photographer and editor of Shotkit. When he’s not taking photos or reviewing the latest camera gear and software, Mark can be found cycling around the northern rivers.

65 Comments

awesome list, you put it together very well 🙂 i got a Sony A6400 from amazon and it’s absolutely amazing, it really show in my vlogs.

Great info. I’m considering to switch to Sony for my travel camera and get a mount adapter. Thanks!

I can’t argue with your rankings but, as a Canon user with several lenses, I opted for a Canon EOS M50 with the EF-M adapter. I got it at a great price ($516.69 w/ 15-45mm lens – gray market) and have been very happy with it. The focusing is faster than I expected and it has some great features, including the built-in EVF. I’ve used it with my 24-70 f/2.8L II, my 70-200 f/2.8L IS II (it does look funny with that big a lens on it) and I bought an 18-135 f/3.5-5.6 IS USM (Nano) to use on it everyday. With the kit lens, it’s very small. I’m sure the Sony cameras are superior but, for Canon users that are deep into the system, this is a great option. I really enjoy using the M50!

We have a full review of the M50 coming out this month, Michael. I agree – it’s a great little camera.

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Thanks for the great article… It made up my mind to continue with the Sony brand same sensor same mega pixels . Being familiar with the menus made setup so fast. Having carried my Sony a77 around the cities of Europe for a couple of years, the Sony a6000 feels like a lens with a sensor (and it fits neatly in hand luggage taking up little space!)

haha ‘lens with a sensor’ made me laugh! I bet your back is thanking you, Graham…

I’ve several systems. The most disappointing one is the Sony NEX system, inc a6000. Why? The telezoom isn’t great, the battery life is shocking and the autofocus, while deadly accurate on static targets doesn’t actually work very reliably. Also, though very light, the form of the camera plus lens is a bit awkward. Don’t get me started on the menu system. The best travel camera I’ve used is the Panasonic FZ1000 . It’s fast with great autofocus and good battery life and you don’t have to change lenses.

Thanks for the feedback, Garry. Shame you can’t get on with the NEX system. The FZ1000 is a great camera, albeit a tad bulky for me.

Mark, Thanks for a very helpful guide. Do you have additional lens recommendations for the Sony a6400?

No problem, Jim. Check back to the site in a couple of days and they’ll be a review just for that exact topic ;-)

Nice expansive list of interesting travel cams. I’ve used the Canon G series in the past, and liked them. However you can’t escape the latest smartphones. The technology and image quality now is amazing! Though I love my Nikon D850 and the roster of lenses I travel with, my backup travel cam is now an iPhone 7 Plus. With twin lenses and different shooting modes, plus the ability to shoot 4k video, the quality is just outstanding! Of course it’s not great for night (astro) photography which my D850 excels at, but for daylight photography, colour, sharpness and quality, it rivals the compact cameras listed above.

Additionally, the Camera2 + app which can shoot in RAW, and Filmic Pro app for superb hi-def videos, gives smartphones a diversity matching or surpassing some of the cams listed above. Best of all, is the additional features, like being able to operate my DJI Mavic2 Pro drone, and toting along apps like Stellarium to track stars and Waze to navigate through traffic!

Perhaps you need to do an evaluation of the top of the line smartphones vs cameras with fixed lenses in the same price range. If you do that analysis like I did, you may find that smartphones are getting hard to beat.

Hey Frederic, I agree that smartphones are getting and better and better for photography, but there’s simply no comparison to something like a D850 like you own + pro glass. For a consumer in daylight without specific needs, perhaps a phone is most convenient, but for a pro, a smartphone can’t be compared to a dedicated camera + lens.

Curious why you never cover anything from Panasonic. The GX1 and GX80 have been perfect for me when needing a small portable camera for travel or street photography.

They’re good cameras, Gus – nothing wrong with them really. Just the options presented here are better IMO.

Agree with the X100 and Ricoh GR recommendations. If anyone is already invested in the Fujifilm Len ecosystem then the X-T30 would be well worth a look. Might just be the best specced ICL CMOS camera for the price?

I agree, Simon. X-T30 is fantastic, and I’ll probably be adding it to this list soon.

I bought a GRII Best camera I’ve ever had. Better than all my old Leica’s, my Nikon’s, my canons and my new quiver of Sony’s. Why? Because it’s always with me. I never miss a picture. Portraits, street, landscapes. It can do them all.

That’s the way, Matt! Best camera = one that’s always with you.

Good selection, but Im kind of surprised you didn’t include the Fuji X-T2. It’s way cheaper now that the newer model came out. AF and image quality are pretty good and the body is weather sealed. You can pair it with the amazingly small f2 weather resistant primes and have a perfect travel kit. I would say Fuji has a far better lens selection than Sony and a lot of people prefer the experience of using a Fuji. If you are mainly a photographer, you don’t need the new features of the X-T3. You can get a mint condition X-T2 for $800 right now.

Yeah that’s great value for money, I agree Guille. I’m considered swapping the X100F for the XT-30 in my recommendations, but decided against it in the end. I agree that the Fujinon lenses are excellent, but for travel and simplicity, a fixed lens is also a huge plus. Perhaps I’ll add in the XT-30 for those of us who like the option of multiple lenses… but I do like your budget X-T2 idea too. The 23mm f/2 WR is one of my favourite lenses. Thanks for the comment.

I would put on that list the Canon m6 or the Canon m100 which has the new 24mp sensor Canon at apsc size and modestly priced, better image quality than the Canon G9x which is the 1 inch sensor. The m series lenses are much more compact than regular apsc lenses from Canon. Priced at around $400 for m100 and currently around $600 for m6 with a sharp and decent zoom kit lens, these are great cameras with dual pixel fast autofocus and very good dynamic range (similar sensor to the 80D in a compact body).

Thanks for the feedback, Adrian. The EOS M series has been surprisingly popular for Canon users, with new models due to be released this year too. Watch this space!

Hey there, You mention the G9xmkII has a sensor just a little bigger then a phone. It’s actually a 1 inch sensor, the same size as the RX100’s. That’s what makes it and the G7 so compelling.

I have had my eye on the Fujifilm X100. I’ve read many reviews, and most (as did your) boast of the outstanding image quality, build, etc.., but the one question I always found unanswered was if I would miss a zoom lens if I got a fixed focal length such as the Fujifilm as my travel camera. Your review addressed this quite clearly which I appreciate. Now if I can only justify the cost.

Hello Mark. Thank you for the review, it is very useful. Are you recommending Olympus OM-D E-M5 or E-M10? The links refer to different photo camera to what is written

Ah thanks Inga, I need to update that. I actually recommend both the mark II versions of those cameras, but especially the EM-10 as it’s more affordable with very similar features.

Fujifilm X100F all the way for me. It’s a killer camera and occasionaly I use it to shoot weddings.

What an informative write up on cameras! It looks as if there is something for everyone in the market irrespective of what they need. Travel is not any good if you do not capture the memories on film.

Wow. This is really in depth. Thanks for the info!

Sure thing Christy! I checked out your guide on travel cameras too – nice work ;-)

Nice picks! Personally I have been shooting almost entirely on my X100T since I got it 3 years ago. Really forced myself to work around the prime lens and now I end up pretty much knowing where and when I can take a shot. If I see something too far away I just enjoy the moment – some of the best times you get when you travel.

I enjoy traveling alone as I’m basically on a photo walk each time, and my T is my travel buddy sharing those memories with me. Which might sound a bit sad haha although I do enjoy traveling with family and my significant other as well. Those times I’m with them I feel the X100 to be a little to slow – I like walking at a deliberate pace and taking time to compose shots unless I’m doing street snaps.

So for those times with family I’m thinking about getting a complementary camera to the X100. Really happy with a prime so I’m considering the GR II and the X70. Logic tells me they overlap with my current so I’m also looking at the Sony RX 100 m3 or Canon G7X ii. But then I had sold my DSLRs years ago so maybe I should just get an OMD or an XT2/XE3. But then over my travels this year it had rained so many times I’ve wished I had a waterproof camera on me. This is driving me nuts I’ll probably just end up buying a new weather resistant smartphone and use that for family shots!

So almost 3 weeks and I’m still spending way too much time thinking about this. I think I’ve got my options down to two. Getting a Canon G7x ii as a fast, more of snapshot camera I can bring together with the X100T or getting the Fuji X-T20 with 18-55 which will essentially replace the X100T because of versatility when I’m out with family and I’ll just have the T when I do street or when I’m traveling alone. Any thoughts?

Not sure how the Sony RX100 Series didn’t make it onto this list. I’ve taken some truly incredible pictures with my Mark III. It also fits well in the budget range.

I couldn’t get hold of a Sony RX100 IV to review when I wrote this Kyle, but I agree, it should be a strong contender.

Great article, but I ofte wonder what really is travel photography. Personally I often travel to take pictures and since taking pictures is the main reason for visiting a certain place I often need more flexible solutions.

I have the X100F and GR II. Great cameras for street photography and casual “snapshots”, but too limiting for wildlife, landscapes and architecture. I usually thorn between taking my X-T2 or D750 with various lenses. At least I am right now… On a vacation trip I will be more than happy with only bring the X100F or GR II, though.

Two great cameras for sure!

Curious to know if you ever travel with both. I love my X100T but I’ve always been intrigued with the GR.

Great article! I am obsessed with the Fujifilm X100F and will hopefully purchase that soon for my travels. I too use a D750 for the heavy lifting. It’s a low light beast.

Weatherproofing isn’t about shooting in the rain, it’s about shooting when there’s surf splashing around, or in dusty deserts, or on beaches with swirling sand and so forth. Or even underwater (I’m no Jacques Cousteau but I always take a waterproof compact on holiday). And what about when it’s snowing? It can be absolutely beautiful.

Pity to miss so many photo opportunities because you’re worried about damaging your equipment.

Plus there are certain activities where rainwater gets in EVERYWHERE, no matter how well packed you think you are. I once had a camera wrecked by rain on a motorcycling holiday while it was packed in my luggage. And my Mum recently wrecked her compact while hillwalking in the rain – the camera was in a supposedly-waterproof pocket.

Fair points, Brian!

Great article! The main thing about it is that you first describe how to find best travel camera. I think Fujifilm cameras is best for traveling and have a high-resolution smart camera which makes travel more happier. Thanks for sharing with us.

I need to agree with George Mahlum about Sony A7. Actually, I am using it myself, and I can’t recommend it enough. Together with 28mm Sony lens, you can get some serious shots. Plus the size and the weight is perfect for me.

Truth to be told, I like Fuji X100F a lot. Did not use it actually, but I used X100S, and I know that F is serious upgrade. But still for the price, I would go for a Sony variant.

But than again, that small lens on Fuji is a winner, if you can live with only one lens (which in my opinion is awesome for travel ~35mm f3).

Thanks for your comment Boris. Another vote for the A7 it seems!

Surely need a bit of zoom in a travel camera. I’ve enjoy the Fujifilm X30 (or is there a newer model of this?) for travels – zoom, adjustable screen, optical viewfinder, mode selection via top dial, built-in flash, great ISO range, myriad of other features, fits a jacket pocket, unobtrusive for street photography.

Thank you for the insightful and useful post as always! If investing in a second camera – do you think the Fujifilm x100 earlier versions would be worth getting to get a used one at a lower price point for the x100s or x100t? I have the Fujifilm xt-1 and I am about to trade it in for the xt-2 I would love to have another small portable camera. Would you recommend the Fuji x100 (is it worth getting the newest even with the high price point?) or do you think one of the other cameras would be a better to developing my personal kit?

Additionally I have a gopro hero 5 session, an old panasonic point and shoot, and a Nikon D90.

Hey Nicole, I wouldn’t recommend the X100 series cameras except the T or the F. Ideally the F, since the advancements are considerable. I’ve used the original and it’s very slow. I owned the S and it was much better, but still slow. The T is good enough, but the F is definitely the best. I’d get a used T, or save up for the F!

Mark, too much to choose from, I took a Sony HX90V walking in France recently and some city/urban time. The results were excellent, the camera fitted in my shirt top pocket, good zoom. I use the pictures for collage and multi media/illustration/installation

Really nice article I also will suggest Fuji X70 as a travel camera, light weighted, 28 lens, tilt-able touch screen and many more features

Ah yes, a great little camera!

Oh no! Always hesitating between the X100F and the X-T20 for different reasons and now they are both featured in the same article!! Which one would you choose?

I chose the X100F for the reasons I mentioned above ;-) They’re both great cameras, but their uses are slightly different. If you aim for simplicity, follow my suit. If you crave versatility, get the X-T20.

hi mr Mark, i have get more knowledge from your Best Advice……. Thank You So Much

You’re welcome Hemant! Thanks for the comment.

Nice read. Have to disagree on the X100F lens being sharper than the interchangeable options available- I owned one and sent it back as shooting wide open with it, I just didn’t like what I was seeing. At F2 I found the images soft and not as good as my X-Pro 2 and 23mm F1.4, or the F2.

I worried though that I’d been too hasty as I loved the rest of the camera, and got one on loan for a recent trip to see U2 in Dublin. It was perfect for everything that weekend, small, I was able to take it into the concert without anyone stopping me for having a ‘pro’ camera, but I still felt the images at F2 weren’t as good.

I will look again at the next version in the hope that Fuji updated the lens as I feel it’s just not as good as the rest of the camera.

Ah interesting. It’s definitely a tough comparison as it’s not really an apples to apples thing, but I did feel the image was sharper when you stop down on the X100F. The 23mm f/1.4 or 2 are both excellent lenses – I’d have a hard time deciding between the two if I owned an X-Pro 2.

You might also look at the original Sony A7….light weight…full frame…weather resistant…cheap…add the fe 28/2 and the fe 85/1.8…one super package.

Ah yep nice recommendation, George. I haven’t had any hands on experience with the camera personally but know someone who raves about it. Will investigate!

Thanks for the great write up on travel cameras. I just came back from a 5 week family road trip out to the Canadian Rockies (BC and Alberta) from Ontario with my wife and 2 boys. I am not a professional photographer – just an enthusiast shooter. I have both a D750 and a D3300 but my D3300 is my travel camera. It’s small and light and paired with the 18-55 and 55-200 lenses that can retract to smaller size, it worked perfectly. Paired with a Peak Design capture clip, I took my D3300 everywhere and it never got in the way. I did bring all my other gear but I had a travel trailer to store it in. I used my D750/Nikon 14-24mm for landscapes and star shots.

Nice insight, Chris. I used to do something similar with a Nikon D40 and 35mm lens (50mm equivalent). The small dSLRs paired with lightweight lenses are fine for travel, but I just feel they lose out to all the technological advancements present in mirrorless cameras of the same price nowadays.

Nice read, but I ofte wonder when you’re not a snapping casual travel photos, but yet not a pro. Like most(?) who reads photography related sites, I travel to take photos for my own joy and often want/need a varity of focal lengths when traveling. It’s very useful and interesting to see how like minded solve packing for their road trip, city trip or hiking trip.

I have often traveled with my X100/s/t/f and it is one of my favorite cameras. Yet, I want that DSLR for Anthelope Canyon or Horse Shoe Bend. Or maybe some of the wildlife. I often end up only taking the X100F out if we’re out for dinner or somewhere where a larger DSLR may be a little “out of place”. Also, the lack of weather sealing especially during Winter (I don’t tend to be so much outside in the rain..). In the end I always end up bringing multiple cameras…

I really wish I could be satisfied with just a smaller and a larger camera. ;-)

haha yeah it’s often a question of compromise, Ian. I too wish I could have my D750 performance in a small, lightweight, pocketable body, but unfortunately that’s not possible yet.

Great article my friend. All you articles have so many important details. Yes, carrying my Canon 6D around with her 24-105mm lens can be a pain in the butt…. I am seriously thinking of a new one and this article gave me a lot of ideas.

Glad you liked it Alex!

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The best travel cameras for 2024

Andy Westlake rounds up our pick of the best travel cameras for trips long and short, vacations and all other adventures

Welcome to our guide to the best travel cameras and holiday cameras! Here, we are going to be running through our picks for the best small and light cameras to take away with you. A full camera setup tends to be too bulky and heavy to use on a photo trip or vacation, while a smartphone will generally be too restrictive in terms of what it can capture (and never mind the battery). A dedicated travel camera is the ideal solution.

At AP, our review team tests cameras of all types, and that includes travel cameras. DSLRs, mirrorless models and compact cameras have all passed across our testing bench, and we’ve chosen the best of the best for this guide. This doesn’t just mean the most expensive premium models – after all, travel is expensive enough without having to add a whacking great camera bill on top.

Of course, you do have to spend a bit of money to make sure you get something worth buying. So, we’ve put together a list to suit a range of budgets, including new models and older ones that have come down in price. However, every camera on here has one thing in common – it impressed our reviewing team enough to earn their recommendation.

We’ve got plenty of advice for taking better travel images here .

How to choose the best travel camera or holiday camera

So what features might be most desirable for a travel camera? Small size and light weight are a given, and we’ve assumed that most users will prefer using a zoom lens , quite probably with an extended range. This could be complemented by a couple of small primes , for shooting in low light or going out in the evening. It might also make sense to add an ultra-wideangle zoom for architecture, landscapes or interiors.

As such, where we’ve picked an interchangeable-lens camera , we’ve also provided a lens recommendation, generally one that you can buy bundled with the camera. The fixed-lens compact cameras we’ve picked generally have generous zoom ranges , with the exception of the Fujifilm X100V, which is loved by travelling street photographers for its super-sharp 35mm prime. This is one we’d recommend for city breaks rather than countryside hikes.

In general, the cameras we’ve chosen in this guide also include fully manual control , a built-in viewfinder and raw format image recording . In order to attain a certain level of image quality, they also use sensors of the 1-inch type or larger . The one exception is the Olympus Tough TG-6, which we have chosen as the best bet for a waterproof camera . Going to be spending most of your time snorkelling on the beach? That one is your best bet.

Read on for our choice of the best travel cameras and holiday cameras that are available right now, including both high-end pocket cameras and lightweight mirrorless models teamed up with versatile zoom lenses.

Where to find the best travel and vacation cameras:

Best waterproof travel camera: Olympus Tough TG-6 – check best price
Best fixed-lens compact for travel: Fujifilm X100V – check best price
Best zoom compact for travel: Panasonic LX100 II – check best price
Best point and shoot for travel: Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200 – check best price
Sony RX100 VII – check best price
Best all-in-one travel camera: Sony RX10 IV – check for best price
Best DSLR for travel: Nikon D5600 – check best price
Best travel camera for enthusiasts: Fujifilm X-S10 – check best price
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III – check best price
Nikon Z 5 – check best price

The best travel cameras and vacation cameras: our full list

Olympus tough tg-6 – $489 / £399.

Olympus Tough TG-6 (Red) Lego for scale. Photo Joshua Waller

At a glance

25-100mm f/2-4.9 lens
12MP 1/2.3in sensor
ISO 100-12,800
20fps continuous shooting
3in, 1.04m-dot screen

The Olympus Tough TG-6 is different from the other cameras included in this round-up, as it employs a relatively small sensor, which means it won’t give anywhere near the same image quality. It also does without a viewfinder, relying solely on a fixed rear screen instead. But it makes our list simply because it’s the best rugged camera you can buy right now.

Key to its attraction is its sheer robustness. The TG-6 is waterproof to 15m, shockproof to a drop from 2.4m, freezeproof to -10°C, and crushproof . So you can use it without any worries on the beach or in the sea. It also boasts impressive close-up capability and an extensive range of underwater modes, plus an extensive range of lighting and lens accessories.

For outdoor adventurers, it also includes a suite of environmental sensors that allow you to keep track of your travels, including GPS with a compass, a thermometer and an accelerometer.

Read our full review of the Olympus Tough TG-6 .

What we like:

Supremely rugged build
Has optical zoom (many tough compacts don’t)
Useful environmental features

What we don’t like:

Small sensor
No viewfinder

Jellyfish, taken with the Olympus Tough TG-6 one of the best travel cameras

Jellyfish, taken with the Olympus Tough TG-6, photo Joshua Waller

Take a look at other waterproof and underwater camera options here: Top 12 Best Waterproof and Underwater Cameras

Fujifilm X100V – $1,399 / £1,339

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Fujifilm X100V

The Fujifilm X100V is a premium compact camera beloved of street photographers.

At a glance:

35mm equivalent f/2 lens
26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor
ISO 80-51,200 (extended)
11fps continuous shooting
Hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder
3.2in, 1.62m-dot tilting touchscreen

Among all the cameras covered in this article, the Fujifilm X100V is unique, as it’s the only one with a fixed, single-focal-length lens . Usually for travel we presume photographers will prefer a zoom, ideally with an extended range to cover a broad array of subjects. But the X100V is different.

With its APS-C sensor, fixed 35mm equivalent lens, and classic rangefinder-like styling, it embraces a different way of shooting. It’s all about working with a fixed angle of view, and ‘zooming with your feet’ to find your pictures. It’s not for everyone, but for some photographers, it’ll be perfect.

While the X100V looks very much like the previous four models in the X100 series, it brings some significant improvements. Its redesigned lens is sharper, especially at close focus distances, and it gains a tilting rear screen that’s great for discreet, unobtrusive shooting.

Thankfully these upgrades don’t come at the detriment of the camera’s other major attractions, which include analogue dials for shutter speed, ISO, aperture and exposure compensation, and Fujifilm’s unique hybrid viewfinder that gives a choice of optical or electronic viewing.

Despite its old-fashioned good looks, the X100V is packed full of up-to-date features . It’s capable of 11fps shooting, 4K video recording, and face- and eye-detection autofocus. It also benefits from Fujifilm’s superb colour rendition, with a full array of Film Simulation modes on board to provide a variety of different looks.

And for those who really can’t do without a few different lenses, optional wideangle and teleconverters are available, giving 28mm and 50mm equivalent views.

Read our full review of the Fujifilm X100V.

Sublime image quality
Super-sharp lens
Has nailed the street photography feel
Expensive for a compact

Image: Michael Topham

Panasonic LX100 II – $849 / £859

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Panasonic LX100 II

The Panasonic Lumix LX100 II

24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 lens
17MP Four Thirds sensor
ISO 100-25,600 (extended)
11fps shooting
2.76m-dot EVF
3in, 1.24m-dot touchscreen

If you love the idea of an X100-like camera, but can’t live without a zoom, then the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II might just be for you. It boasts a similar array of external controls for shutter speed, aperture and exposure compensation, and incorporates a corner-mounted 2.76m-dot electronic viewfinder. But it also includes a 24-75mm equivalent optically stabilised zoom lens with an unusually fast f/1.7-2.8 aperture. This is particularly impressive given that the camera employs a relatively large Four Thirds type sensor.

One unique feature of the LX100 II lies with the way that it uses its sensor. It employs a multi-aspect ratio design that, at the flick of a switch on the lens barrel, can toggle between 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 settings , all with the same diagonal angle of view, and therefore progressively wider horizontal views. There’s also a 1:1 option for those who enjoy shooting square-format images.

While the LX100 II is very much designed for stills shooters, it also offers 4K video recording , although with a 1.25x crop. Panasonic’s various 4K Photo modes are on board too, in effect shooting 8MP JPEGs at 30fps. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are built-in for connecting to your smartphone.

The real attraction of the LX100 II, though, lies in just how pleasing it is to shoot with, thanks to its robust metal build and engaging control layout. It also delivers fine image quality. For enthusiast photographers who’d like a zoom compact camera that offers lots of manual control and creative potential, there’s nothing else quite like it.

Read our full review of the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II .

Clever multi-aspect sensor
Robust metal body
Fast f/1.7 lens for low light
Somewhat restricted zoom range
Quite bulky for a camera of this type

Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200 – $697 / £679

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Panasonic Lumix TZ200 in hand

The Panasonic Lumix TZ200 is portable and agile, but boasts a hefty zoom range.

24-360mm equivalent f/3.3-6.4 lens
20.1MP 1in sensor
ISO 80-25,600 (extended)
10fps continuous shooting
2.33m-dot viewfinder

Panasonic originally invented the long-lens, pocket-sized ‘travel zoom’ camera, and the TZ200 (or ZS200 in the US) is the ultimate expression of this concept. Like its predecessor the TZ100, it adds a 20MP 1-inch sensor into the mix, to provide considerably improved image quality compared to its cheaper siblings with smaller sensors, such as the TZ95.

But it improves on the TZ100 with a longer 24-360mm equivalent zoom (compared to 25-250mm) and a larger, higher-resolution electronic viewfinder, yet without noticeably increasing in size. For those who can’t afford the TZ200, the TZ100 remains an attractive proposition for £389.

In contrast to its sibling the LX100 II, the TZ200 is very much a point-and-shoot at heart. But it still offers lots of manual control, including a full set of exposure modes and raw format recording. It’s capable of shooting at 10 frames per second, or 7fps with live view between frames. A vast array of features is available for those who’d like to experiment further, including panoramic, multi-exposure, intervalometer and even stop-motion animation modes.

As usual, Panasonic has included 4K video recording, along with its unique 4K Photo mode that allows 8MP JPEGs to be captured at 30fps.

Crucially, the TZ200 gives attractive images, particularly in bright, sunny conditions. It’s also more usable than you might expect in low light, as while the lens’s aperture isn’t especially large, the optical image stabilisation is extremely effective. It’s a great choice for when you just want to carry a pocket point-and-shoot camera but not skimp on zoom range.

Huge zoom in a tiny body
Clever 4K Photo modes
Effective optical stabilisation
Pricier than TZ100
Lens aperture tops out at f/3.3

Sony RX100 VII – $1,298 / £1,049

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Sony RX100 VII

The RX100 VII benefits from a pop-up viewfinder.

24-200mm equivalent f/2.8-4.5 lens
20MP 1in sensor
2.36m-dot pop-up EVF
3in, 921k-dot tilting touchscreen

Sony’s RX100-series compact cameras are famed for the way they fit an awful lot of technology into a small, pocketable package. The latest model in the range exemplifies this, with a 24-200mm equivalent f/2.8-4.5 zoom, a 20MP 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor, a pop-up electronic viewfinder and a tilting rear screen, all in a body that’ll slip neatly into a jacket pocket.

What’s more, it’ll shoot at 20 frames per second and record 4K video. Compared to its predecessor, it gains an upgraded sensor that enables Sony’s AI-based tracking autofocus, along with a socket for an external microphone and a few interface improvements. Otherwise, the older RX100 VI offers most of the same features for a slightly more affordable £849.

With 357 phase-detection AF points covering 68% of the frame and Sony’s Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking on board, the RX100 VII has the most sophisticated autofocus of any compact camera . Set it to continuous focus and tracking, and you can almost forget about having to move the AF area or change focus modes ever again. This is very welcome, as in many respects the camera’s ambitious feature set has rather outgrown its simple control layout.

One area where the RX100 VII excels lies with composing your images, thanks its large pop-up viewfinder and tilting rear screen. The lens is a strong performer too, especially when stopped down. Crucially, the camera delivers attractive images which are a noticeable improvement over older Sony models in terms of colour rendition.

Class-leading autofocus
Pocketable form factor
Great viewfinder and screen
Still very pricey
RX100 VI will do most of the same stuff for less money

Sony RX10 IV – $1,698 / £1,499

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV - Image: Andy Westlake / AP

Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV. Photo credit: Andy Westlake.

24-600mm equivalent f/2.4-4 lens
24fps continuous shooting
2.35m-dot viewfinder
3in, 1.44m-dot tilting touchcreen

For photographers who’d like an all-in-one camera with a long zoom lens , but who are prepared to carry something the size of a DSLR, there’s nothing else quite like the Sony RX10 IV .

Its 24-600mm equivalent optically stabilised lens offers immense versatility and reach, yet still boasts a usefully fast f/2.4-4 aperture . Meanwhile its 20MP 1in stacked CMOS sensor provides a combination of fine image quality and breathtaking speed. The camera also incorporates Sony’s sophisticated autofocus systems, including eye AF for both humans and animals.

The RX10 IV handles well too, with a large, comfortable handgrip. Three rings arranged around the lens barrel control zoom, focus and aperture, and there’s a dedicated exposure compensation dial perfectly placed for operation by your thumb. Focus area selection is handled using either the touchscreen or the rear d-pad. The viewfinder is decently large and gives an accurate preview, while the screen tilts for low-angle shooting.

To fully understand the RX10 IV’s attraction, though, we need to consider how it compares to mirrorless or DSLR alternatives. Quite simply, none can match its zoom range without changing lenses . What’s more, few other cameras get close to its ability to shoot at 24 frames per second with continuous autofocus and a vast 110-frame raw buffer.

The silent electronic shutter provides speeds as fast as 1/32,000sec while minimising any risk of subject distortion. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi provide smartphone connectivity, and as the icing on the cake, it’ll record 4K video. It’s without doubt the best bridge camera that’s ever been made.

Read our original review of the Sony RX10 IV

Incredible built-in zoom range
Fast burst and big buffer
Comfortable, well-engineered handling
Very expensive for a fixed lens

Nikon D5600 + 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6 lens – $969 / £749

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Nikon D5600 and 18-140mm lens

The 18-140mm lens transforms the D5600 into a travel photography powerhouse.

24.2MP APS-C sensor
ISO 100-25,600
5fps continuous shooting
Optical pentamirror viewfinder
3.2in, 1.4m-dot fully articulated touchscreen

Some photographers still prefer a traditional DSLR with an optical viewfinder, and Nikon’s D5600 provides a solid specification in a portable package. What’s more, it can be bought in a kit with a versatile 18-140mm kit zoom, offering a 27-210mm equivalent range, for just £749. As the icing on the cake, Nikon’s SnapBridge connectivity can transfer all your pictures automatically to your smartphone , making sharing your adventures a breeze.

In terms of key features, the Nikon D5600 boasts a reasonably solid specification. Its 24.2MP sensor goes up to ISO 25,600 and supports continuous shooting at 5fps. Autofocus employs a 39-point phase-detection system covering the central region of the frame, while metering is handled by a 2,016-pixel RGB sensor.

One area where the D5600 shows its age, though, is with regards to video recording, which is Full HD only, rather than 4K. Recent mirrorless models undoubtedly offer more, but on the other hand, they can’t match the D5600’s impressive 820-shot battery life.

In general the D5600 delivers attractive images, with warm, saturated colours and plenty of detail. It handles nicely too, with the responsive touchscreen making up for a relatively simple set of external controls. Those who’d like to add extra lenses are well served by Nikon’s sizeable F-mount range , including the affordable AF-P DX-Nikkor 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR wideangle zoom and the AF-S DX-Nikkor 35mm f/1.8 G. The latter would nicely complement the zoom for low-light shooting. See our guide to the best Nikon F-mount lenses for more ideas.

Read our original review of the Nikon D5600

Solid DSLR handling
Good connectivity features
Well-priced
Price may go up as it gets harder to find
Middling video spec

Fujifilm X-S10 + 16-80mm f/4 lens – $1698 / £1,399

Fujifilm X-S10 in hand, Photo: Andy Westlake

26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor
2.36m-dot viewfinder
3in, 1.04m-dot fully articulated touchscreen

For enthusiast photographers who’d like a small, lightweight camera that handles well and offers excellent image quality , the Fujifilm X-S10 is extremely appealing. Styled to look and work very much like a shrunken DSLR, it offers most of the features of the firm’s flagship X-T4 in a considerably smaller body.

It comes in kits with various lenses, with prices starting from just below £1,000 for the XC 15-45mm power zoom. We’ve picked the most versatile kit zoom option, the XF 16-80mm F4, which provides a 24-120mm equivalent range.

Based around Fujifilm’s unique 26MP X-Trans CMOS sensor, the X-S10 delivers the firm’s signature attractive JPEG colour rendition. It even has a dedicated dial to select between the various Film Simulation modes, which provide an interesting range of different looks. Other highlights include 5-axis in-body stabilisation that works with every lens, and a fully articulated screen for shooting at unusual angles. When it comes to video, 4K recording is available at up to 30 frames per second.

With its prominent handgrip, twin control dials and joystick for positioning the focus area, the X-S10 provides the kind of handling that should satisfy experienced photographers. Fujifilm also makes the best available range of lenses for the APS-C format, including a nice set of compact primes.

What’s more, the major third-party lens makers have also recently started to support the firm’s X mount, with some interesting optics now available from Samyang, Sigma, and Tamron . This makes the X-S10 a great choice for existing DSLR users looking for a smaller camera.

A newer model, the Fujifilm X-S20 has recently been released and our review team found that when choosing between both models it depends if you’re planning on doing video content, particularly travel vlogging , ‘If you already have the X-S10 and are primarily a stills photographer, then the X-S20 may be overkill for you, but for the budding or experienced videographer, vlogger, and live streamer, the X-S20 hits it out of the park, with a cracking set of video features that really takes it to the next level.’

Read our original review of the Fujifilm X-S10 and how it compares to the newer Fujifilm X-S20 .

Eye-catching images straight out of camera
Excellent X-mount lenses
Effective stabilisation
Still quite pricey

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III + 14-150mm lens – $1,498 / £1,299

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is one of the best Micro Four Thirds cameras you can buy.

20.4MP Four Thirds sensor
ISO 64-25,600 (extended)
3in,1.04m-dot fully articulated touchscreen

Olympus cameras have traditionally offered high performance in a compact form factor, and the E-M5 series delivers on this principle particularly well. Like its predecessors, the Mark III is unique in being extremely small and lightweight, while still having a fully weather-sealed body and a good set of external controls. What’s more, you don’t have to spend a huge amount of money to get a matching sealed lens.

Buy it in a kit with the 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II, and you get an extremely useful 28-300mm equivalent lens that’s also dust- and splashproof. If you’re prepared to spend a bit extra, there’s even a 12-200mm superzoom that offers a massive 24-400mm equivalent range. Despite its small size, the E-M5 III doesn’t skimp on features.

Its 20MP sensor includes on-chip phase detection that provides 121 focus points spread across the entire image area. You get 10 frames per second shooting, a decently large viewfinder, and a fully articulated screen. As usual from Olympus, the camera also produces very attractive JPEG images , with well-judged exposure and white balance that complement the firm’s signature punchy colour reproduction.

Micro Four Thirds models inevitably give more visible image noise at high ISOs, but this can often be offset by the superb 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, as it allows you to shoot handheld at remarkably slow shutter speeds. There’s also a good range of affordable f/1.8 prime lenses available for low-light shooting that’ll take up next to no space in your bag. There is also a good choice of lenses .

Read our original review of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Exceptional stabilisation
Loads of lenses available
Weatherproof body
Unavoidably small sensor

Nikon Z 5 + 24-200mm f/4-6.3 lens – $2,193 / £2,029

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Nikon Z5 with 24-200mm lens

The Nikon Z 5 is the only full-frame camera on our list.

24.3MP full-frame sensor
ISO 160-51,200
4.5fps continuous shooting
3.69m-dot viewfinder
3.2in, 1.04m-dot tilting touchscreen

If you really can’t do without full frame, the latest mirrorless models are ideal for travel , as they’re smaller and lighter than their DSLR counterparts. It’s also possible to get all-in-one superzoom lenses for them that deliver very creditable results. We’ve chosen the Nikon Z 5 , as it’s available in a kit with the firm’s Z Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR for a decent discount over buying the two separately.

The lens has a slightly shorter zoom range than its Canon and Sony counterparts, but provides a welcome weight reduction in return, of about 200g. While the Z 5 counts as Nikon’s ‘entry-level’ full-frame mirrorless body, it doesn’t give up a huge amount compared to the more expensive Nikon Z 6 .

Its 24MP sensor resolves just as much detail in good light, and while it falls behind in terms of noise performance at the highest sensitivities, it’s still perfectly usable at ISO 12,800. However, its maximum shooting speed of 4.5fps looks rather pedestrian by today’s standards, meaning it’s not the best choice for fast action or wildlife. It’s also only able to record 4K video with a significant 1.7x crop.

In other respects, though, the Z 5 maintains most of what makes Nikon’s mirrorless cameras so attractive. The body may be small, but it has plenty of external controls, along with a lovely large viewfinder and a tilting touchscreen . Dual SD card slots offer the option of backing up your images for peace of mind, while in-body IS means you can often do without a tripod. A range of fine fast primes is also available for low-light shooting.

Read our original review of the Nikon Z 5 here

Satisfying controls and handling
Does well in low light
Gorgeous full-frame images
Pedestrian burst rate
Vicious crop into 4K video

Take a look at our latest buying guides for more great options.

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Photography

The best travel cameras

Everyone loves to take pictures of their travels, whether you’re visiting the beach or headed down the trail. But when cloud-based storage isn’t available and phone space is at a premium, you want a way to snap your pictures without weighing yourself down. A good travel camera is the best solution to your quandry. The best travel cameras are small, light, and easy to pack, which makes them ideal for almost all traveling situations.

At a glance:

The best travel camera: olympus om-d e-m1 mark iii, the best waterproof travel camera: olympus stylus tough tg-6, the best instant travel camera: leica sofort, the best travel superzoom: nikon coolpix p1000, the best advanced compact camera for travel: sony cyber-shot rx100 vi, the best cheap mirrorless camera for travel: fujifilm x-t30, the best video camera for travel: gopro hero8 black, what should you look for in a travel camera, are digital cameras allowed on airplanes.

But which travel camera is the best choice for you? For enthusiast photographers, nothing beats the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, a compact mirrorless camera with built-in image stabilization so good you won’t need a tripod — even for long exposures. Of course, not everyone needs to take such a high-end camera on vacation. If that’s you, a simple point-and-shoot or action camera might be the better choice. To help you choose the best travel camera, we’ve compiled a list of cameras with features you’ll love.

The best travel superzoom camera: Nikon Coolpix P1000
The best premium compact for travel: Sony RX100 VI

Why you should buy this: Plenty of photo and video power, all in a system that easily fits in a carry-on

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Who’s it for: Serious travel photographers and enthusiasts

Why we picked the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

Many mirrorless cameras are compact and portable, but few travel as easily as the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III. The body itself may not be much smaller than other mirrorless options, but relatively small Four Thirds sensor means the lenses are. With a 2X crop factor , a 150mm lens has the same reach as a 300mm lens on full frame, which allows you to pack more zoom in less space, perfect for wildlife photography.

Compared to larger full-frame and APS-C sensors, image quality takes a slight hit on the E-M1 Mark III, but the 20-megapixel sensor still captures excellent photos in most conditions. And when those megapixels aren’t enough, a handheld high res mode boosts resolution to 50 MP (albeit, for stationary subjects only).

One of the biggest space savers, however, is the camera’s stabilization system. Rated up to 7.5 stops with some lenses (7 stops with others), it’s good enough to take handheld long exposures around six seconds or so — more if you have very steady hands. Except for shooting photos of the stars, we didn’t use a tripod on a four-day trip with the E-M1 Mark III, even for long exposures and night shots. As some popular tourist locations don’t allow tripods, this is a huge plus.

With built-in neutral density filters, the E-M1 Mark III also makes it easy to take longe exposures during the day, which is a big help if your travels include visiting a waterfall, ocean beach, or other body of water.

There’s more to the E-M1 Mark III than compact lenses and rock-solid stabilization. Performance is also good, with fast and accurate autofocus and even a new mode to use autofocus on astrophotography. Cinema 4K video is also a plus, and the fully articulating monitor means you can easily record a travel vlog.

If you want an interchangeable lens camera that packs light but still delivers high-end performance and image quality, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is an excellent option.

Read the full Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III review

Why should you buy this: RAW photos, great macro ability, rugged and weatherproof

Who’s it for: Enthusiast photographers who need a camera that can survive the elements.

Why we picked the Olympus Tough TG-6:

Rugged point-and-shoot cameras are similar to action cams, except they put still photos first, video second. Perfect for beach trips and snorkeling, they are meant to be shot by hand, rather than mounted to something. Such cameras are also waterproof, dust-proof, and freeze-proof without requiring a separate housing, as is sometimes the case with action cameras.

The Stylus Tough TG-6 continues Olympus’ dominance in the rugged camera game, and offers several advanced options not normally found on this type of camera, like the ability to shoot uncompressed RAW photos. It also has a stellar macro mode and even an incredibly easy-to-use light-painting mode, perfect for some nighttime creative fun on your next camping trip. It’s one of the more expensive options out there, but it packs a lot of power for the price and should last for years to come.

We should note while the Stylus Tough TG-6 is the latest offering from the Olympus TG series, little has changed over the Tough TG-5 . That camera has been officially discontinued, but if you can still find one, it might be worth picking it up at a discount.

Read more about the Olympus Stylus Tough TG-6

Why should you buy this: If you’re tired of lifeless images on a screen and want a physical picture in your hand

Who is it for: Those who like something cool and quirky when it comes to their cameras

Why we picked the Leica Sofort:

From the “upside down” Polaroid OneStep 2 to the soap-bar-like Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay , Instant cameras come in all shapes and sizes. But none are as stylish at the Leica Sofort. Consistent with the Leica brand, the design of the Sofort is sophisticated and understated. It’s the kind of instant camera that passersby will admire in your hand, rather than laugh at.

Sure, on the inside the Sofort is just a standard Instax Mini camera. Its f/12.7 aperture will deliver reasonably sharp images and the 60-millimeter lens is versatile enough to create a range of styles, but it’s certainly not its image quality that makes the camera ideal. Let’s remember when you’re on vacation, you’re there to have a good time. Especially if you’re traveling with children, instant photography is always a crowd-pleaser. It is a fun, interactive, and instant way of documenting all the good times you have while you’re away.

What makes the Leica Sofort different is that you’ll still look like a “real” photographer while using it; and looking the part is half the battle.

Read our Leica Sofort hands-on impressions

Why should you buy this: It has a 125x zoom

Who’s it for: Birders, or sports fans stuck in the nosebleed seats

Why we picked the Nikon Coolpix P1000:

The P1000 is overkill in the best of ways. Its crazy 125x zoom offers an equivalent focal length range of 24-3,000mm, a bonkers super-telephoto that was simply unheard of before it. Even though it’s technically a point-and-shoot, the massive optics required for that lens pushes the camera to over 3 pounds. Yeah, that’s not exactly portable and pocketable like other options on this page, but you won’t find anywhere near that much zoom power anywhere else.

Don’t expect superior image quality from the Nikon Coolpix P1000’s relatively small sensor (more or a less a requisite for fitting such a long lens), but Nikon has done an admirable job with the image stabilization, so you can at least handle that lens without requiring a tripod — provided you have enough light, and a little patience. At nearly a grand, this isn’t an impulse buy, but if you need one camera that can shoot everything from wide vistas to close-ups of birds, this is likely your best bet.

Read our Nikon Coolpix P1000 review

Why should you buy this: Great stills and video, good zoom, impressive speed.

Who’s it for: Enthusiasts after a compact camera that won’t sacrifice performance.

Why we picked the Sony RX100 VI:

Sony somehow fit a 24-200mm f/2.8-4 lens into this pocket powerhouse. While it’s not cheap, you can’t beat the versatility of that lens in such a portable form factor when it comes to travel. The RX100 VI isn’t the latest advanced compact cameras featuring a 20-megapixel 1-inch-type sensors from Sony, but the newer Mark VII doesn’t offer any real advantages for travel photography.

The is also fast, capable of focusing in as little as 0.03 seconds and shooting bursts at speeds up to 24 images per second. It can also handle your video needs admirably, thanks to support for 4K resolution and a host of advanced options that will sate the appetite of even professional videographers. If you can get by with a shorter lens, the older R100 V has a 3x zoom, but with a brighter f/1.8 aperture for shooting in low light. It also comes at a cheaper price.

Read our Sony RX100 VI review

Why should you buy this: You’re getting a small, lightweight camera that has incredible image quality

Who’s it for: Those who want to create more than just a good holiday snapshot

Why we picked the Fujifilm X-T30:

The X-T30 is a high-performing compact mirrorless camera. Whether you’re going for a short weekend getaway or a long vacation, this camera won’t add too much weight to your travel bag. It comes with a backside-illuminated, 26-megapixel X-Trans sensor. With that you get stunning images that are rich in color in and detail. Depending on your viewing preference, the X-T30 gives you the option of looking through a central viewfinder or an adjustable LCD screen.

We absolutely loved the X-T30 when we tested it as it brings the best features of Fujifilm’s flagship X-T3 into a smaller, cheaper package. It can shoot continuously at up to 20 frames per second with the electronic shutter, so you’ll never miss a beat of the action. The face and eye-detection autofocus is great for portraiture, and it also offers 4K video if you want to record a cinematic memory of your vacation.

What sets the Fujifilm X-T30 camera apart from those above it is that you have the option of interchangeable lenses. And when it comes to great glass, we’re pushed to find a better manufacturer than Fujifilm. So if your time away is mixed up of hiking, street markets, and lazy days on the beach, you’ll have plenty of lens options to suit the style of photography you want to create.

Read our Fujifilm X-T30 review

Why should you buy this: Stunning image stabilization and versatile features

Who’s it for: Anyone with a love for POV videos or who needs a camera small enough to go anywhere.

Why we picked the GoPro Hero8 Black:

GoPro’s latest flagship is still the best action camera you can buy, but it does much more than provide the point-of-view perspective for extreme athletes. With the new “mod” accessories, it turns into a powerful vlogging tool . Add an LED light, mini shotgun microphone, and even a flip-up selfie screen.

The Hero8 Black is the first physical redesign since the Hero5 Black, incorporating a built-in mount that lets you forego a frame or case. This makes it faster and easier to set up, while also allowing you to swap batteries and memory cards while the camera is mounted to something. The camera is also thinner overall, making it more pocketable.

GoPro also turned up it’s impressive HyperSmooth stabilization to 2.0 in the Hero8 Black, offering gimbal-like steadiness that smooths out the roughest trail runs or mountain bike rides. It’s beyond impressive, and probably the number one reason I’d recommend the Hero8 over other action cameras.

It’s far from the only new feature, however. TimeWarp 2.0 offers new ways to create polished hyperlapse videos, automatically choosing the time-lapse speed based on camera movement and allowing you to slow down to real time at any point. New microphones and audio processing algorithms make voices easier to hear, even in windy and noisy conditions, and improvements to the interface make the GoPro Hero8 Black even friendlier to use.

Read our full GoPro Hero8 Black review

The most important thing is to make sure you’re getting a camera you will actually use. You could spend $2,000 or more to purchase a top-of-the-line machine for your next vacation in hopes of capturing some money shots to hang onto forever. However, if you never take it out of your hotel room because it’s too big and heavy (or you’re worried about it getting stolen), it’s basically worthless.

If you already shoot with a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you have a good idea of what you’re willing to use. If you’re used to shooting with a smartphone, you may want to consider how much you would actually gain from a digital camera before you make the switch. Some good questions to ask yourself before purchasing a digital camera are whether or not you need better low-light image quality, the ability to shoot in all weather conditions, or more versatile lenses.

There are no restrictions against bringing digital cameras, relevant accessories, or tripods on planes. It might be worth allowing for extra time, though, since some TSA agents will insist on manually inspecting your camera and equipment after it goes through the X-ray machine. If your camera and equipment don’t fit in a carry-on-sized bag, you’ll need to check it, and it might get handled roughly in transit.

Make sure to carry your camera’s lithium-ion batteries on with you, even if you decide to check the rest of the equipment. FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations require you to keep these in your carry-on luggage. Lithium-ion batteries are a fire hazard, so airport baggage handlers will remove them if they find them in your checked luggage due to friction as the bag gets moved around. Knowing the batteries are a fire hazard sounds scary, but don’t worry, it’s just a safety precaution. Camera batteries are a lower risk than phone and laptop batteries because they aren’t as energy-dense, and it’s safe to fly with phones and laptops.

If the information here has you in the mood for camera shopping, check out the best Cyber Monday camera deals we found.

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Our pick for the best camera for kids is the Olympus Tough TG-6. It's not a toy camera, nor is it particularly cheap, but it is very good at one thing that makes it a great choice for putting it in the slippery hands of youngsters: Survival. It is waterproof, drop-proof, crush-proof, and probably even dog-proof, so wherever it ends up and however it gets there, it should survive the journey. Kids love to make art, and they also love using technology. The perfect artistic and high-tech tool for a kid is a camera. We’ve tested and evaluated a wide range of cameras and found a number which work perfectly for children, whether it’s a first-time snapper, or a more advanced model for underwater shots. The cameras we’ve chosen are durable and easy-to-use, making them perfect for kids who aren’t gentle with electronic devices. Here are the best cameras for kids in 2020. At a glance

Best camera for kids: Olympus Tough TG-6 Best camera for toddlers: VTech Kidizoom Best cheap camera for kids: Fujifilm FinePix XP120 Best instant camera for kids: Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay And since its shopping season some deals Toy deals

After you’ve spent a small fortune on your new camera, the last thing you want is for it to slip out of your hands and tumble to the floor. To keep your camera safe and sound, you need a reliable camera strap. A camera strap keeps your camera within reach, and off the ground.

But you don’t want just any old strap. Your camera is a capable tool, and it deserves something special to keep it safe. Here are the best camera straps for 2020. Pair one with one of the best camera bags to build out a functional -- and fashionable -- kit. The best Peak Design Slide

Along with a strap, camera case, and high-quality flash, no photographer’s kit is complete without a handy tripod. While modern tech helps a lot, the best images require a steady grounding, and that’s doubly true at night. A tripod with strong, steady legs provides that firm grounding, and it’s key to getting the most out of your kit.

But the most expensive, feature-packed tripod isn’t the best choice for everyone, and if you only break out the camera on the weekend, you might want some more reasonably priced. The best tripods on our list have a variety of price points, so you can find one that best suits your budget and photography needs. Peak Design Travel Tripod

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BEST 2024 TRAVEL CAMERAS reviewed: midsize, pocketable, smartphone

by Tom Dempsey
March 13, 2024
28 Comments

Tom Dempsey recommends the following camera gear for on-the-go photographers:

PART A: SMARTPHONES are antiquating larger cameras by revolutionizing photo sharing and improving their capture of telephoto and dim light — as in the latest Apple iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models with 3x and 5x optical tele (prices at Amazon) . The Google Pixel Pro 8 also sports a top 5x optical tele. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra beats all with a good 10x optical tele camera. Because the best camera is the one you have with you , upgrade your phone first before considering larger cameras below…
PART B: the top POCKETABLE CAMERA captures sharper images using a superior 8x optical zoom and larger 1-inch Type sensor for better performance in dim light: Sony RX100 VII or cheaper RX100 VI (prices at Amazon) — reviewed in Tom’s article “ Sony RX100M6 . ” Save $ on a Panasonic ZS100 (Amazon) or versatile smaller-sensor ZS80 with electronic viewfinder . OM System (Olympus) Tough TG-7 waterproof camera is good for water sports .
PART C: MIDSIZE CAMERAS : the 37-ounce Sony RX10 IV (Amazon) with versatile 25x zoom lens surpasses the telephoto sharpness of larger-sensor systems in its weight class — read Tom’s “ RX10M4 review .” Much cheaper, a crisp 16x-zoom Panasonic FZ1000 version II weighing just 29 ounces beats the bulk & cost of DSLR systems below.
PART D: DSLR-STYLE TRAVEL CAMERAS provide a traditional optical viewfinder — a bulky legacy design. Eliminate awkward lens-swapping with an economical all-in-one solution : Nikon D3500 (Amazon) mounted with 19x zoom Tamron 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC lens , which captures blurrier edges than Sony RX10 IV but saves $600. Read more in “ BEST TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS 300mm+ .”
PART E: FULL-FRAME SENSOR CAMERAS take sharper indoor or night images at high ISO 6400+ sensitivity — but are costlier and require bulkier lenses. The best compact option is the 60-megapixel Sony a7CR mounted with the sharpest travel zoom, a 7x Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD . Save $ on the 33MP sibling Sony a7C II .

Recommended PRINTERS ■ SCANNERS ■ MONITOR ■ ACCESSORIES ■ SOFTWARE ■ TIPS for travel in adverse conditions

PART A. Top SMARTPHONE CAMERAS

compensate for tiny cameras with ease-of-use, instant photo sharing, good close focus, and vast computational power for superior AUTO HDR . Get the latest most-advanced Pro or Ultra models for superior speed, telephoto, and dim-light (night mode) performance. Top brands include:

Apple iPhone (unlocked, at Amazon) versions 15, 14, 13, 12. Get the latest Pro or Pro Max version, for a good 3x or 5x power optical telephoto
Samsung Galaxy (unlocked) : S23 Ultra and S22 Ultra beat those with sharp 10x power optical telephoto
Google Pixel Pro 8 has a good 5x optical tele

Photographers using Cloud storage can get away with 128GB internal storage on the phone. For business use, Tom prefers 256 or 512GB.

An “ unlocked ” phone lets you pick a lower-priced wireless service provider and/or install a cheap foreign SIM in each country visited (as I did in Japan and UK ). To save money on your USA wireless carrier , consider Consumer Cellular (external link) , which accesses AT&T’s complete USA-only network most cheaply while providing top customer support. Get Consumer Cellular’s “all-in-one SIM” from Target stores or via mail, then insert into an unlocked GSM phone and activate with their help. For international roaming capability when away from Wi-fi, I now use Consumer Cellular’s T-Mobile service. With my wife on Consumer Cellular’s AT&T and me on their T-Mobile service, together we broaden our USA coverage.

Off by default, be sure to turn ON your phone’s “Wi-Fi Calling” Setting , which costs nothing extra. Wi-Fi Calls in the USA will be clearer, if cell reception is poor where Wi-Fi is strong. When you are outside of USA, Wi-Fi Calls eliminate roaming charges when calling US phone numbers. While you are roaming, calls made to non-USA numbers are charged per-minute rates by both the foreign and home mobile network operators. When abroad , only use Wi-Fi service to access internet data ; turn OFF “Data Roaming” to avoid unexpectedly large bills.

PART B. World’s best POCKETABLE TRAVEL CAMERA

The best and brightest pocketable 8x-zoom camera is now the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII (RX100M7) (2019, 11 oz, 24–200mm f/2.8-4.5). The sweet spot for a sharp, portable zoom is now found in cameras like this which use Sony’s 1-inch-Type sensor — as explained in my “ Sensors ” article .

Or save $ on the older RX100 VI (RX100M6) (2018). Read Tom’s “ RX10M6 review .”

Accessories: Avoid dropping its slippery body by adding Sony AG-R2 attachment grip . Fit into Tamrac Digital 1 Photo Bag with extra Wasabi Power NPBX1 batteries . Avoid LCD scratches with QIBOX Premium GLASS Protector .

Other good pocketable cameras

Panasonic Lumix DSC-ZS100 (2016, 11 oz, 25-250mm equivalent lens f/2.8-5.9 ). Read Tom’s ZS100 review .
Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200 (2018, 12 oz, 24-360mm equivalent lens f/3.3-6.4) outguns all pocket-size 1″-sensor rivals with a versatile 15x zoom, but sibling ZS100 is sharper and brighter through 10x.

Best value pocketable superzoom : Panasonic ZS80 (2019, 11.5 oz, 24–720mm equiv 30x zoom, 20MP, Electronic ViewFinder/EVF ).
Cheaper, tiniest 10x zoom : Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 IS (2016, 5 oz, 24-240mm equivalent, 1/2.3″ sensor, but no viewfinder).

Weather resistant pocketable cameras

OM System (Olympus) Tough TG-7 camera (2023, 9 oz, 25-100mm, f/2.0-4.9 lens) is waterproof, shockproof, and dust-resistant. Beat smartphone image quality by shooting and editing its raw format files, as I did after rafting the Grand Canyon using the earlier TG-4.
For hiking in the rain , a waterproof smartphone is a good choice (plus adds topographic tracking via Gaia GPS, AllTrails, or other apps). My Samsung Galaxy Note9 worked great in New Zealand rainforests .
Beware that seawater can corrode contacts even on waterproof phones, so a case or a TG-7 is advised. While a cheap CaliCase Universal Waterproof Case can take smartphones snorkeling under seawater, beware that 2 out of 4 copies that I received in 2018 noticeably softened camera resolution due to a milky stain on the already-blurry plastic window.

TIP: As a workaround for sluggish autofocus (AF) in cheaper compact cameras: prefocus (lock) on a contrasty edge of the subject by half pressing and holding the shutter button , then the subsequent full press will be instant, ≤ 0.15 second. But half-press autofocus lock doesn’t work in continuous focus or action modes . Don’t let an inferior camera frustrate your capture of action, people, pets, or sports. For surer action shots, upgrade to a newer model with hybrid AF such as pocket-size Panasonic ZS100, Sony RX100, or midsize RX10M4 or Panasonic FZ1000 II, or an interchangeable-lens camera.

PART C. MIDSIZE TRAVEL CAMERAS

Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV (RX10M4) with 24-600mm equivalent f/2.4-4 stabilized zoom lens.

Since 2018, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV packs the ultimate all-in-one travel tool into 37 ounces — read Tom’s “ RX10M4 review .” Its dust-sealed, bright f/2.4-4 lens with remarkable 25x zoom is sharp across the frame from 24-600mm equivalent, well into birding territory ( read Tom’s Telephoto article ) . With an efficient 1”-Type sensor, it captures great depth-of-field details, everywhere from close flower shots to distant bird feathers.

Accessories: Preserve your investment with B+W 72mm XS-Pro Clear MRC-Nano 007M Filter for the lens and Sony PCK-LM15 protective LCD cover . Extend shooting time with Wasabi Power NP-FW50 (1300mAh) batteries for Sony and SanDisk Extreme PRO 128GB UHS-I/U3 SDXC Flash Memory Card (Amazon) . Carry the RX10M4 in the perfectly-fitting Lowepro Photo Active TLZ 45 AW toploader bag, using included removable shoulder strap or an Ortlieb chest harness on the go. Or Spider Holster – Spider X Backpacker Kit carries any midsize camera from any belt or backpack strap.

Smaller, cheaper midsize cameras with 1″-Type sensor

Best midsize camera for the money: Panasonic FZ1000 version II (2019, 28.5 oz with fast-focusing 16x zoom lens 25-400mm equivalent, bright f/2.8-4 aperture, 20MP, 1″-Type BSI sensor) rivals the zoom quality of APS-C-sensor and DSLR systems of this weight. (The earlier FZ1000 version I has a noisier sensor and poorer LCD screen & EVF.)
Travelers may prefer FZ1000 II over the older, heavier Panasonic FZ2500 (2016, 33 oz, 20x zoom 24-480mm f/2.8–4.5, 20MP, called FZ2000 in some markets). In comparison to Sony RX10 III, the Panasonic FZ2500 has a fully articulated LCD with touchscreen , increases viewfinder magnification (EVF 0.74x versus 0.7x), has better menus, and improves video specs (ND filter, Cine/UHD 4K). But FZ2500’s lens collects a half stop less light, lowering image quality; its telephoto doesn’t reach long enough for birders; and its CIPA battery life of 350 shots is shorter than RX10III’s 420 shots.

Larger APS-C sensor, midsize camera for dim light, indoor action, events

Tiny 1/2.3″-type sensor extends zoom range for midsize cameras.

Tiny, noisy 1/2.3″-Type sensors are leveraged well by smartphones’ superior processing power, but therein mostly limited to wider angles of view. When attached to larger-diameter lenses to collect more light, these little sensors usefully extend zoom range in the following midsize cameras:

Cheapest: Panasonic Lumix FZ300 (2015, 24.4 oz, 12MP, bright f/2.8 lens 25-600mm equivalent, 24x zoom range, weather sealed ).
Nikon COOLPIX P950 (2020, 35 oz, 24–2000mm equivalent 83x zoom lens f/2.8–6.5, 1/2.3″ sensor, 16MP). Fully articulated LCD. 290 shots per charge. P950 adds a flash hot shoe and can record RAW files (whereas older P900 only captured JPEGs).
Compare with bulkier Nikon COOLPIX P1000 (2018, 50 oz, 24–3000mm equivalent 125x zoom lens f/2.8–8.0 on 1/2.3″ sensor, 16MP) for dedicated birders and wildlife specialists . The P950 and P1000 are best intended for zooming above 1000mm equivalent , whereas various rival cameras would better cover 24-1000mm. For example, superior processing of modern smartphones generally beats P950 and P1000 at wide angles (24-50mm equivalent). A 1″-sensor Sony RX10M4 shot at 600mm can be digitally cropped by 2x to outshine the P950 and P1000 up to about 1200mm equivalent.

If your camera was made prior to 2018, do yourself a favor — upgrade for better real resolution, lower noise at higher ISO speeds ≥800, or quicker autofocus. From 2009–2022, top cameras have markedly improved handheld optical image stabilization (branded as Nikon VR , Canon IS , Panasonic OIS , Sigma OS , Tamron VC , Sony OSS ), largely freeing us from daytime tripod use. The latest cameras capture more highlight and shadow detail, by using better sensors plus automatic HDR ( high dynamic range ) imaging and other optimizations for JPEG files. On advanced models, I always edit raw format images to recover several stops of highlight and shadow detail which would be lost with JPEG . Related camera history: Tom Dempsey’s travel cameras adopted from 1978 until now .

PART D. DSLR-STYLE TRAVEL CAMERAS

feature an optical viewfinder using a legacy mirror box. Tom recommends the following economical DSLR camera body:

Nikon D3500 (2018, 13 oz body, 24MP APS-C sensor/DX format, CIPA battery life 1550 shots)
or upgrade: Nikon D5600 (2016, 16.4 oz body, 24MP) adds fully articulated (flip out) LCD touchscreen

and attach a travel lens:

Tamron 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD Lens for Nikon F Mount (2017, 25 oz) (also available for Canon EF-S Mount ): 22x zoom range, with Vibration Compensation stabilization to reduce handheld shake by up to 2.5 stops. At wide angles, it’s image quality is similar to kit lenses, but is too soft beyond 50-100mm compared to Tamron 16-300mm and superior Sony RX10 IV and III.
Nikon AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm F4.5-5.6E ED VR (2017, 24 oz) takes sharper, faster-focusing shots of birds, wildlife, and sports.

Read “ BEST TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS 300mm+ ” to seriously magnify wildlife, birds, and sports with optical image stabilization. Ultra-wide- angle lenses broaden the DSLR perspective.

Recommended close focus, macro enlargement prime lenses for DSLR cameras

Tamron SP 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 VC USD (Model F017, released in 2016) : 5.5-inch working distance; enlarges subjects down to 1.4 inches wide (3.5 cm) (in comparison, Sony RX10M4 at 600mm has 28″ working distance and enlarges down to 2.8 inches wide)
Compared to the above 60mm lenses, longer macro lenses such as 100mm and 105mm give you a few more inches of comfortable working distance from the front of the lens (to avoid startling insects) and can have a different bokeh (character of out-of-focus areas), but at the cost of larger size, weight, and expense.

Instead of carrying one of the above prime macro lenses for a DSLR camera, consider using a pocketable camera or smartphone which can focus very closely at wide angle with deep depth of field, and can serve as a backup for your larger/main camera. A pocketable Panasonic ZS100 captures good close-focus shots optimally sharp at 45mm equivalent (after the Macro/Flower symbol button is pressed).

In fact, I gave up lens-swapping in 2016. Instead, I carry the Swiss-Army-Knife of cameras — the 25x zoom Sony RX10 IV, which captures excellent macro at 400-600mm, sharpest at f/5.6 — read Tom’s RX10M4 review .

Historical DSLR comparison: Nikon version Canon

Nikon D3300 (released in 2014) offers more for your money (at a lighter travel weight) than Canon EOS Rebel cameras of 2014 and earlier . Also, the earlier Nikon D3200 beats Canon Rebel DSLR cameras of 2012 . The best mirrorless designs can pack more quality into a smaller box, but DSLR cameras offer more specialty lenses, with a design legacy inherited from the 35mm film era , where an optical viewfinder’s mirror box adds bulk.

PART E. FULL-FRAME-SENSOR TRAVEL CAMERAS

The world’s best full-frame mirrorless camera in a compact body is the

Sony a7CR ( 2023 , 18.2 oz body , 60MP BSI CMOS sensor ). Up to 7EV of in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is achieved by impressive sensor-shift technology.
Cheaper sibling: Sony a7C II (2023, 18.1 oz body, 33MP BSI CMOS). 7EV of stabilization built into the body means lenses needn’t provide it.

Mount it with the optimal travel lens for Sony Alpha 7 (A7) series cameras:

Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD (2020, 20 oz, AFA071S700) with sharp 7x zoom range . This lens plus a compact A7CR or A7C II camera body = 38 ounces (just 1 ounce more than a 25x-zoom Sony RX10M4). Handheld shake is counteracted by excellent IBIS in the A7 bodies (instead of in the lens).

Let’s compare this Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 lens mounted on a 60MP A7 Series camera ( 38 oz total) versus a 20MP Sony RX10M4 with 24-600mm equivalent lens F2.4-4 ( 37 oz ). Advantageously in dim light , the A7’s full-frame BSI CMOS sensor may capture up to 3 stops less noise in terms of ISO setting. The A7CR will be sharper from 28mm to about 340mm equivalent . Cropping the Tamron shot at 200mm from 60MP down to 20MP image size extends its reach to roughly match 350mm equivalent on the RX10M4. Further cropping the A7CR’s 200mm image to 6.7MP ( still useful for publications ) would digitally zoom to 600mm equivalent. (This is an inverse-square relationship: cropping to one-ninth of the megapixel area on the sensor makes an equivalent-lens linear magnification of 3x — from 200mm to 600mm.) When compared to Sony A7CR mounted with Tamron 28-200mm , the Sony RX10M4 makes a compelling all-in-one travel solution by: ■ being sharper from 400-600mm equivalent for wildlife magnification (optimally shot sharpest at f/5.6), ■ by covering wider angles of view from 24-27mm equivalent, ■ by being smaller (protrudes less by 1.25 inches when retracted), ■ by including a built-in flash and a sharper LCD (although with less articulation, just swiveling), and ■ by costing half as much .

More Sony FE (full frame) E-mount lens options:

Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS (2017, 23 oz, SEL24105G) has a more-limited 4x zoom range but is sharper than the above lenses. Lens + body = 41 ounces .
Sony FE 24-70 mm F2.8 GM SEL2470GM lens (2016, 31 oz) 3x zoom is brighter and incrementally sharper than the above options. Lens + body = 49 ounces .

Sony A7 series history : The A7R (2014, 16.4 oz) captures 36MP . In contrast, A7S (2015, 17 oz) has 12MP optimized with large photosites and more sensitive autofocus great for low-light videographers , but its stills require ISO 12,800+ to beat A7R’s 36MP image quality. Instead of having an optical viewfinder like a DSLR, the A7, A7II, A7R, and A7S have a great electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2.4 million dots (XGA). The 3-inch tilting LCD has 1.23 million dots (except 921,000 on A7S). New Hybrid AF builds phase-detection autofocus into the sensor, capturing 5 fps with continuous autofocus. With contrast-detection autofocus only, A7S shoots 5 fps and A7R shoots 4 fps. Weatherproof bodies.

Full-frame-sensor cameras excel at night, indoor, high ISO 6400+, and very-large-print photography. Covering that large sensor area requires more glass, thereby restricting the optimally-lightweight travel lens to 7x zoom range — using the crisp Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6. (To capture distant wildlife or birds while traveling, instead use a smaller sensor, as described in BEST TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS 300mm+ .)

When an image is well-shot in bright outdoor light, the advantages of full-frame cameras are only noticeable when large prints bigger than 3 feet diagonally are inspected very closely. Full-frame cameras tempt us with high megapixel counts such as 33 to 60MP, but can be overkill for most practical publications, since a billboard only needs 3 to 10MP at typical viewing distances .

A tradeoff exists between absolute image quality, zoom range, system weight, bulk, and other features. The optimal choice depends on your preferences.

What makes an ideal travel camera? The “best” travel camera is the one you want to carry everywhere. For many people, a smartphone is sufficient — so get one with the best telephoto reach. But for me, the best Light Travel cameras (as chosen above) should MINIMIZE bulk and weight while MAXIMIZING sensor dimensions ( read article ) , zoom range , lens diameter , battery life ( ≥ 350 shots), and ISO “sensitivity” (for lower noise in dim light). A sharp optical zoom lens should magnify the field of view by a factor of 7x to 25x to rapidly frame diverse subjects, without the bulk or annoyance of swapping lenses. Lenses should autofocus fast (with hybrid AF minimizing shutter lag ≤ 0.3 second), optically stabilize images , and focus closely (for good macro enlargement). Travel cameras should pop up a built-in flash and also flip out (articulate, hinge, or swivel) a high-resolution display screen to jump-start your creative macro, movie and candid shooting at arm’s length. OLED displays usually outshine LCD . Sunny-day reflections often obscure display-screen visibility − but to save bulk, most pocket cameras sadly lack a viewfinder. A camera with a brilliant electronic viewfinder (preferably EVF with ≥ 1 million dots) gives superior live feedback on the final digital image than a non-digital optical viewfinder .

RECOMMENDED PHOTO PRINTERS | SCANNERS | MONITOR

The 13-inch-wide Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Printer with ten pigmented inks is excellent for photographers.

The 8.5-inch-wide Canon PIXMA TR8620 Multi-function Printer is an excellent value for a one-person office, with five ink colors including pigmented black, accepting paper from small media up to Legal 8.5×14-inches. Adding photo blue ink in the following model achieves slightly better color accuracy, but it’s hardly perceptible and costs more for ink usage: Canon PIXMA TS8320 combines a pigment-based black ink with dye-based cyan, magenta, yellow, “photo black” and photo blue inks.

MONITOR: ASUS PA328Q 32″ 16:9 4K/UHD IPS Monitor , nicely precalibrated at the factory, has served me well since 2017.

RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES

Buy extra Wasabi Power brand batteries for a variety of camera models (from Blue Nook / Amazon.com) .
Portable battery power bank chargers (Amazon). I use the Mi Premium Power Bank Pro 10000mAh , 18W Fast Charging Slim. Great for travelling away from electrical outlets! It efficiently powers a phone 40% longer than rival Anker PowerCore 10000, says PCMag. It thankfully supports pass-through charging of itself AND your device at the same time. Fits most phones; includes USB-C adapter cable.
A clear glass filter protects precious lenses from scratches & catastrophic drops. I speak from experience! Get a clear glass filter , NOT a UV filter, which modern multi-coated lenses have made redundant. Example: high quality B+W 72mm XS-Pro Clear MRC-Nano 007M Filter fits my Sony RX10 III (read article) .
Mount a circular polarizing filter (B+W brand at Amazon) only to remove reflections or haze, or to contrast clouds with polarized sky. Don’t forget to immediately take it off for all other conditions, as it can block 1-1.5 stops of light.
Spider Holster – Spider X Backpacker Kit for midsize cameras — “Self Locking, quick draw access to your camera on the go from any belt or backpack strap!”

RECOMMENDED SOFTWARE

Adobe “20GB Photography Plan” — I rely on Lightroom Classic (LRC) to organize and edit 200,000 photos stored on my Windows PC (5 terabytes, too large for Adobe Cloud). The included Photoshop helps build trickier panoramas, complex Layers, or CMYK color space for book publishing. I don’t use LR with its 20GB cloud. LR and LRC both radically speed tonal editing, adjustment-brushing, cropping, organizing, sorting, and labeling of images.
Apple Photos easily organizes photos for free on Apple devices — be sure to add critical adjustment brushes with Google’s free Snapseed app (for iOS, MacOS, Android, and Windows).

TIPS for travel in adverse conditions

Weather & dust protection : Prudent bagging can avoid the extra expense of a weather-sealed body & lens – keep a camera handy, safely in a front pouch on your chest or hip (where it can be retrieved more quickly than from a pack on your back). Adverse fluctuations of temperature & humidity, or dusty conditions, or sea spray all require cameras to be double-protected in a zip-lock plastic bag inside the padded pouch (Amazon) . Use a soft, absorbent silk cloth to wipe away moisture or dust from lens & body before bagging.
Cold batteries : Using camera batteries (price at Amazon) below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (or 4 Celsius) loses their charge quicker, causing camera shut down or lock. Revive and extend battery life in cold or below-freezing weather by warming an extra battery or two in an interior pocket near your skin and swapping with the camera’s battery after every 5-10 minutes of cold exposure.
Satellite communication : Stay in touch everywhere in the world via Iridium satellite with a 3.5-ounce Garmin InReach Mini 2 (Amazon) : send and receive 160-character text messages with GPS coordinates (accurate to five meters) to cell numbers or email addresses worldwide and post updates to social media. Tom found it valuable for texting with his wife while backpacking. Good battery life. This affordable technology connects campers, hikers, hunters, backpackers, alpinists, and backcountry skiers who often venture outside of cell phone networks. Messages are easy to read on the Mini 2. But Smartphone connection via Bluetooth is required for a faster keyboard and smoother interface, as the Mini 2 screen and menus are otherwise very slow for typing characters. While charging, the Garmin disconnects from the smartphone. The month-to-month “Freedom – Recreation” plan is $34.95/month, which can be paused as desired to save money in ensuing months (unlimited SOS, 40 text messages/month both sent & received then 0.50 overage per text, unlimited preset messages set up on website, unlimited 10-minute tracking). You only pay for active months plus an annual $34.95 activation fee on the anniversary of initial activation into Freedom Plans. In case of SOS, info is shared with Garmin International Emergency Response Coordination Center. 24/7 monitoring & emergency dispatch benefit is available to anyone using your inReach. Compared to Mini 1, version 2 uses a quicker chip set and more satellites (Multi-GNSS, over 100).

Terminology and metric conversions

oz = ounces | above camera weights in ounces (oz) include battery and memory card.
g = grams | multiply ounces by 28.35 to get grams
mm = millimeters | 10 millimeters = 1 centimeter (cm) | multiply centimeters ( cm ) by 0.3937 to get inches
ILC = Interchangeable Lens Compact = “ midsize mirrorless camera ” term used above
DSLR = Digital Single Lens Reflex = a traditional camera where an optical viewfinder uses a mirror to see through the interchangeable lens
EVF = Electronic Viewfinder
OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) consumes less power and beats an LCD in dynamic range from darkest to brightest.
LCD = Liquid Crystal Display
MP = megapixel
LPH or LPPH = resolvable lines per picture height = the best empirical measure of real resolution of a camera’s sensor for a given lens (independent of pixel pitch or megapixel count ). A camera with higher LPH can make sharper large prints . Look up cameras on dpreview.com to find absolute vertical LPH judged by photographing a PIMA/ISO 12233 camera resolution test chart under standardized lighting conditions. Note which lens, settings, and camera body was used in each test, and compare with others within the same web site.
Compared lenses are equivalent only in terms of angle of view . (To determine sharpness or quality, read lens reviews which analyze at 100% pixel views.)
Crop factor = how many times smaller is the diagonal measurement of a small sensor than a “full frame” 35-mm size sensor . For example, the 1.5x crop factor for Nikon DX format (APS-C size sensor) makes a lens labeled 18-200mm to be equivalent in angle of view to a 27-300mm focal length lens used on a 35mm film camera. The 2x crop factor for Micro Four Thirds sensors makes a lens labeled 14-140mm to be equivalent in angle of view to a 28-280mm lens used on a 35mm film camera.
10x zoom range = a zoom lens’ telephoto focal length divided by its wide angle focal length in mm . For example, a 14-140mm focal length zoom has a 10x zoom range (140 divided by 14). An 18-200mm zoom has an 11x zoom range (200 divided by 18).
equivalent F-stop = refers to the F-stop (F-number) on a full-frame-sensor camera which has the same hole diameter as the F-stop of the camera lens being compared. The concept of “ equivalent ” F-stop lets you compare capabilities for creating shallow depth of field on cameras with different-size sensors. Smaller-sensor cameras use shorter focal lengths for the same field of view, so at a given F-stop they have a smaller physical aperture size, meaning more depth of field (with less blur in front of and behind the focused subject). Formula: F Number (or Relative Aperture ) = actual focal length of lens divided by diameter of the entrance pupil.

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28 thoughts on “BEST 2024 TRAVEL CAMERAS reviewed: midsize, pocketable, smartphone”

I agree with your thoughts on the Nikon DX line of cameras. I believe they and the lenses designed from them represent the best image quality to price ratio in the market. I have (too many) types of cameras but have the luxury of selecting what I bring on whatever type of location and coverage I visit. I love my tiny point-and-shoots, my advanced point-and-shoots. and all the way up to my full-frame DSLRs. I regularly shoot on one-inch sensors, micro four thirds, APS-C, and full frame even as I shoot a whole bunch on my iPhone. I love the ability to choose exactly the kit I want for any excursion. I’ll bring my OM-D camera with a wide-ranging travel zoom on a bike ride, I’ll bring my 1-inch sensor point-and-shoot for park walks with my family. I like my APS-C camera with three zoom on short hikes or the same body with a fast prime on evening walks in the city. Of course, when it’s a money shoot, it’s gonna be my full-frame with a bag full of lenses. Horses for courses.

I am surprised to see more emphasis on the RX series of Sony’s point and shoots over the 5100 or 6xxx alpha series.

These compact interchangeable bodys with full APS-C sensors can make use of any Sony E-Mount lenses that you may have to use with a full frame Sony.

I am surprised to see such strong recommendations for Nikon cameras, especially the 3500. Nikon is such a mess right now and may never recover financially. The Nikon D3500 looks and feels cheap and plastic like a toy. It will be in a dumpster in a couple of years with millions of other lower end DSLRs manufactured today which aren’t mirrorless.

With your emphasis on professional portrait photography, I understand your preference for Sony 6xxx Alpha series (APS-C), or full-frame (35mm) mirrorless cameras — great tools for that job.

For travel photography, I recommend compact mirrorless cameras with 8x to 25x zoom lenses; and I discourage using DSLRs, whose legacy design is becoming obsolete. But for readers who want an optical viewfinder (instead of EVF), a Nikon D3500 makes an inexpensive entry level product which captures about the same image quality as more expensive models, depending on lens choice.

For my hiking, travel and nature photography, I look for portable high-quality cameras on a moderate budget. As I’m not tied to any one system or brand, I regularly upgrade to the optimal tool. I’m a big fan of all-in-one zoom lenses which can instantly re-frame rapidly-changing travel subjects without the extra bulk or annoyance of swapping lenses.

After using various interchangeable-lens cameras from 1978-2004, I switched entirely to all-in-one zoom lenses after 2004. I fell in love with mirrorless cameras in 2003 using the fun Canon PowerShot G5, then upgraded to Canon PowerShot Pro1 in 2004. After 5 years of using Nikon DLSRs starting in 2007, I went entirely mirrorless in 2012, using Sony Alpha NEX-7, then A6000, then A6300, all mounted with Sony’s versatile 11x E-Mount 18-200mm lens for APS-C. Then Sony developed a superior tool. From 2016-20, my 1-inch-sensor Sony RX10 III and IV cameras have preserved publishable image quality while radically extending all-in-one zoom range to 25x. They even capture sharp macro, especially good at 600mm. The edge-to-edge sharpness of a 20-megapixel Sony RX10 IV is more than sufficient for my professional publishing in a variety of sizes.

Regarding effective print size, one of my rock pattern images from 2002, scanned at just 10 megapixels from 35mm film, was enlarged 64 feet wide onto the permanent glass of a Calgary skyscraper . Good gear is somewhat helpful, but the photographer’s perseverance, skills and talent are more important.

The best travel cameras of 2023

No matter where your travels take you, these cameras will set you up for success in documenting every detail of the journey.

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Choosing travel cameras for your trips can be an overwhelming prospect. You’re faced with a ton of great options, from advanced mirrorless systems to compacts and action cameras. It’s easy to get lost in the noise. Plus, when you consider features like video capabilities, screen type, and sensor size, it can be downright confusing. All of these features need to fit your photographic—and budgetary—needs. Knowing what you intend to use your captures for and what is most vital for you when traveling with a camera is the best place to start. These are the best travel cameras available, no matter what you are looking for.

Best overall: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII
Best action camera: GoPro HERO11 Black
Best 360 camera: Insta360 X3
Best mirrorless: Fujifilm X -T5
Best mirrorless on a budget: Canon EOS R100
Best for video: Sony ZV-E1
Best for video on a budget: Sony ZV-1

How we picked the best travel cameras

The editors and writers at Popular Photography have decades of photography experience in just about every genre and have covered and reviewed just about every major camera on the market. When selecting the products in this list of best travel cameras, we looked at a wide range of important features in travel cameras. We researched the different camera choices available and compared specs and image and video quality. Size and weight, sensor size, autofocus abilities, battery life, and lens options were just some of the considerations. In addition, we noted any unique attributes or settings available on the cameras. We also aimed to choose offerings at different price points and cover the range of camera types from DSLR to compact. All of these considerations allowed us to compile a list of cameras suitable to various travel styles and capture needs.

The best travel cameras: Reviews & recommendations

While you certainly can use your smartphone to document your travels, there are lots of reasons to bring a dedicated camera along. Whether you’re looking for better image or video quality, a different perspective, or just don’t want the distraction of your phone, the best travel cameras will help you capture epic images to help you relive your trip down the line.

Resolution: 20.1 megapixels
Sensor size: 1-inch
Lens mount: N/A
Image stabilization: Digital and optical in the integrated lens
Memory card slots: Single Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
Weight: 10.65 ounces
Dimensions: 4 x 2.29 x 1.69 inches
Versatile 24-200mm zoom lens built into the camera
Fast autofocus with AF points covering nearly the entire field of view
Pricey for a compact

The newest iteration of the Sony RX100 is an excellent bridge between a compact camera and a DSLR or mirrorless option. Its pocket-ready size makes it easy to carry and pack, an important feature for a travel camera. The smooth finish on the camera body does make it a bit slippery, but a wrist strap can help with carrying.

Despite falling into the compact category , it has the option to use full manual mode (and other staples like aperture and shutter priority), allowing you to have complete control over your images. The 24-200mm equivalent lens covers both the wide-angle and telephoto sides of things, which is helpful for documenting a range of subjects on your travels. Plus, with a maximum aperture of f/2.8-4.5, you can still get nicely blurred backgrounds for drawing attention to your main subject. It’s also handy for shooting in low light if you don’t want to rely on the built-in pop-up flash.

The RX100 VII has 4K video recording with human and animal eye autofocus, which mimics Sony’s higher-end mirrorless models. The newly designed sensor and BIONZ X image processor allow for extremely fast autofocus, with 68% of the image area covered by AF points.

Resolution: 27 megapixels
Sensor size: 1/1.9-inch
Image stabilization: Digital
Memory card slots: Single microSD
Weight: 4.5 ounces
Dimensions: 2.8 x 2 x 1.3
Award-winning stabilization
Extremely compact
Waterproof without a case
Tons of mounting accessories
Still not the best in low light conditions
Limited controls

GoPro cameras have been synonymous with travel cameras for quite some time. That’s in part thanks to how rugged and compact they are. And now, the GoPro HERO 11 features the largest sensor of any GoPro yet. It can produce 27-megapixel stills, as well as 5.3k 60p video. And the expanded image sensor allows for more flexibility when zooming, cropping, changing digital lenses or adjusting the aspect ratio. You’ll be able to easily create vertical videos for social media platforms without losing most of your image.

GoPro’s HyperSmooth 5.0 image stabilization system is truly impressive, offering several modes depending on the activity in which you’re participating. It’s even burly enough to smooth out footage from high-impact activities like mountain biking or skiing. And it offers Horizon Lock to keep your footage level even as you move around.

GoPro also added new night effects to its latest action camera . That includes modes for documenting star trails, creating light painting photos, or capturing vehicle light trails. It still won’t perform as well in low light conditions as something like a mirrorless camera, but it has been improved compared to previous models.

If you want the latest GoPro, the recently released Hero 12 offers even longer run times and higher-quality HDR video.

Insta360 X3 action camera with a forest in the background

Abby Ferguson

Resolution: 48 megapixels
Sensor size: 1/2-inch
Image stabilization: Yes
Weight: 6.3 ounces
Dimensions: 4.5 x 1.8 x 1.3
Excellent stabilization
Unique 360-degree perspective
Lots of mounting options
High-quality video
App is a bit tricky to use

If you want something a bit unique for your travels, the Insta360 X3 action camera fits the bill. It records 360-degree video with its dual lenses so that you can show every direction for immersive content. The selfie stick is invisible in the footage, so you won’t have that distracting element in your shots. And it’s plenty rugged, with an IPX8 rating and waterproofing down to 33 feet without a case, making it an ideal travel camera for rugged adventures.

The X3 offers many different video and photo modes for extra versatility. It’s capable of 5.7K 24p 360-degree video, 4K 30p single-lens footage, 8K 360-degree timelapse, or ultra-wide 170-degree shots at 2.7K resolution. It can also create up to 72-megapixel photos, so you’ll be able to get high-quality stills as well. And thanks to its 6-axis gyroscope and FlowState Stabilization technology, your videos will be smooth and level no matter how adventurous your activity.

The camera pairs with the Insta360 app, which gives you lots of creative control. It provides lots of AI-powered features to simplify the process, or you can have full control. If working with 360-degree files, you can choose the direction the camera points, have it follow something, and so much more. The app is a little confusing to use, so takes some getting used to, but it offers nearly endless editing options.

To learn more about the Insta360 X3, read our full review .

Best mirrorless: Fujifilm X-T5

Stan Horaczek

Resolution: 40.2 megapixels
Sensor size: APS-C
Lens mount: Fujifilm X
Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
Memory card slots: Dual slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
Weight: 1.2 pounds
Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.6 x 2.5 inches
6.2K video at 30fps
In-body stabilization
Attractive in-camera film presets
Tactile camera controls
Solid weather sealing
Expensive for an APS-C camera
Rear screen only tilts

The newest version of Fujifilm’s X-T5 camera is an ideal choice for a hybrid shooter who wants to take both photographs and video on their trips. As an APS-C mirrorless camera , the body is relatively compact, which is ideal for a travel camera since it won’t take up much room in your bag. And it features Fujifilm’s typical retro styling, so it will look cool when you bust it out on your trips. Plus, there are lots of tactile dials on the top of the camera that keep you from digging in the camera menus, which is always ideal for staying in the moment.

The X-T5 offers 40.2 megapixels for detailed, high-quality photos. If that’s not enough, you can take advantage of Pixel Shift Multishot, which automatically takes 20 frames with a single press of the shutter to produce a 160-megapixel file. The electronic shutter goes up to 1/180,000 seconds, with 20 frames per second burst shooting to help you document fast action.

On the video side, it’s capable of 6.2K 30p video or oversampled 4K footage. The seven-stop in-body image stabilization system will help with achieving sharp photos even when shooting in low light. And it will help keep your videos smooth, even without a gimbal.

As with other Fujifilm cameras , it comes with lots of different film simulation modes. These can give your photos a more polished, unique look without needing to spend time editing, which is ideal when traveling.

To learn more about the X-T5, check out our full review .

Resolution: 24.1 megapixels
Sensor size: APS-C
Lens mount: Canon RF
Image stabilization: None
Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
Weight: 12.6 ounces
Dimensions: 4.6 x 3.4 x 2.7 inches
Budget-friendly
Very compact
Excellent image quality
4K video 24p video
Rear screen is fixed
No touchscreen functionality

Canon’s EOS R100 is an absolutely tiny camera, especially for one that offers interchangeable lens functionality. It is compatible with all RF lenses, as well as EF lenses if you get an adapter. The camera weighs a measly 12.6 ounces, making it the smallest Canon R line camera yet. It’s also very affordable.

Despite the small size and budget price, this camera has a lot to offer. It’s capable of cropped 4K 24p video, of you can record full HD at up to 60p. The autofocus system is very advanced for a budget camera, so you can trust that your images and videos will be in focus without much work on your end. The Eye Detection will even work when you are trying to get full body shots of a subject. Still images will also be high-quality thanks to the 24.1-megapixel sensor and excellent dynamic range.

The main downside to the camera is the rear screen. It is fixed, so you won’t be able to flip it around for selfies. And it isn’t a touch screen. But it offers lots of wireless connectivity options for transferring your files, so you don’t need to worry about sitting down to a computer to get images to share to social media while traveling.

Sony ZV-E1 full-frame mirrorless vlogging camera

Resolution: 12.9 megapixels
Sensor size: Full-frame
Lens mount: Sony E
Image stabilization: Digital, 5-Axis
Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
Weight: 1.1 pounds
Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.8 x 2.1 inches
Impressive autofocus
Unlimited 4K recording
Lots of color control options
Single UHS-I card slot
Lower resolution sensor isn’t as ideal for stills

Sony’s ZV-E1 is a full-frame camera that is specifically built for vloggers . It is an interchangeable lens camera, unlike its more budget-friendly sibling mentioned below, meaning you can have more control over the look of your content thanks to the wide selection of lenses for Sony E mount. And, even though it’s a full-frame camera, it’s still very compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel.

The ZV-E1 offers advanced and impressive autofocus. It can even track multiple people in a single frame, which is helpful if you are traveling with a group. It also offers focus breathing compensation, which is a change in focal length when adjusting the focusing distance. A bokeh switch allows for a custom level of bokeh, so you can fine-tune the style of your shots.

Perhaps most importantly, the video from the ZV-E1 is excellent. It’s capable of up to 4K 120p video or 240 fps with full HD resolution. And there are no recording limits, so you can record long cuts. It provides access to advanced color control, such as S-Cinetone, for natural-looking skin tones. You can also adjust the gamma, black level, knee, color level, and more. Or you can import and apply your LUTs in camera to save you editing time.

Resolution: 10.1 megapixels
Sensor size: One-inch
Weight: 10.4 ounces
Dimensions: 4.15 x 2.36 x 1.71 inches
Compact and lightweight
Excellent autofocus
Flip-out screen great for vlogging
Less than impressive battery life
24-70mm lens may not be wide enough for some

This is the first version of Sony’s entry-level vlogging camera, but it is still an excellent choice and will save you money over the latest iteration. To create this vlogger camera, Sony used much of the tech featured in the more expensive RX100 line, resulting in superb quality in a bit more stripped-down package. They also added a handgrip on the ZV-1, making it easier to hold. And, the screen flips to the side, making selfies easier to record even when you have accessories on the hot shoe.

Despite being a small point-and-shoot camera, you get 4K video and access to tons of AF points across the sensor. There is even a focus mode that allows you to easily shift focus from your face to elsewhere in the foreground, which is helpful for showing off your travel finds.

While the quality of the 24-70mm lens is solid, having something a little wider would have been ideal. If you do want a wider lens, the new ZV-1 II offers an 18-55mm equivalent lens. It also features a faster sensor and a new mic design. It will cost you a little over $100 more at the time of writing but may be worth it if you want that wide view for documenting travel.

Things to consider before buying the best travel cameras

When selecting the best travel cameras for your trips, there are a handful of things you should consider.

Your photography style

It is essential to consider what kind of traveler you are and how you intend to use the camera. For example, if you don’t mind traveling with heavy gear and want quality over anything else, your camera needs will differ from someone who likes to travel fast and light. Likewise, a backpacking trip through a jungle could call for a different camera than a luxury cruise. Deciding on what your priorities are first will help you narrow down all of the options available to you in a camera.

You’ll want to pay attention to both dimensions and weight in your setup. The amount of space that a camera takes up in your bag is significant when maximizing what you can bring along. Carrying a heavy camera around on your back while in between destinations or holding it for long periods while out and about gets old fast, so weight does make a difference. Even a few ounces can start to weigh you down on long treks.

You’ll want to choose a camera that offers features you’ll actually use but skips others that won’t be necessary. For example, if you want to take lots of selfies or group photos, a camera with a screen that flips around will be extremely helpful. Or, perhaps you would like to take lots of videos and share your travels. If so, paying attention to the video recording capabilities is a good idea.

Ruggedness and weather-sealing

Moisture and sand don’t play nicely with electronics. Hard falls can do even more damage. If you’re planning to take your camera out into the wilderness or other treacherous terrain, opt for a camera with robust weather sealing. Some cameras come with an IP (ingress protection) rating that will tell you exactly how much exposure to water, dust, and shocks they can withstand. Even if you’re not headed into the jungle, travel can take a toll on cameras, so ruggedness always comes in handy.

Image size and quality

Not every photo is destined to become a giant print. If you plan to use photos and videos solely for social media and to remember your trip, spending money on a camera with exceptional image quality and large files is unnecessary. However, if you want to make large prints of your images or produce high-quality films from video footage, you will want to invest in a camera with more megapixels and higher video resolution. Just remember, more pixels require more storage, so don’t skimp on those SD cards .

As with most purchasing decisions, cost is a significant factor. This is especially true with a travel camera, as you are likely putting an expensive piece of equipment at risk of getting broken, lost, or stolen, depending on how you use it. Finding a camera that isn’t pushing your budget to the max may be a good idea because of the risk. Insuring your equipment before trips is also recommended.

Q: Are mirrorless cameras better for travel?

Mirrorless cameras are often smaller than DSLRs because they can cut out all the space and weight required for the mirror mechanism. That also gives mirrorless cameras fewer moving parts, which means fewer things to break during your trip. As mentioned above, lighter and smaller cameras are ideal for travel, making mirrorless a frequently preferred option for travel cameras.

Q: Is GoPro good for travel photography?

GoPro cameras are excellent for travel for a few reasons. First, they are built to withstand extreme conditions, so you don’t have to baby them by any means. Second, they are tiny. You can easily throw one into your backpack or even a jacket pocket, making lightweight travel more possible. Lastly, they have excellent video capabilities and pretty solid still photo specs. However, they are limited in exposure control (among other things), and the ultra-wide-angle lens may not be ideal for all settings. There are tradeoffs, but overall it is an exceptional pick for travel.

Q: Can an iPhone 12 replace a DSLR?

The iPhone 12’s camera is impressive, no doubt. And as photographer Chase Jarvis once said, “the best camera is the one that’s with you.” Depending on your goals for your travel photography, the iPhone can absolutely replace a DSLR. However, if you want more control over your images or want higher-quality files, a dedicated camera, whether a DSLR or something else, will be the way to go.

Final thoughts on the best travel cameras

Choosing the best travel cameras will come down to your travel style (rugged adventures or luxury stays), documentation needs (stills or video), and how much control you want with your camera. For most users, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII is a well-rounded option that meets a variety of needs. In addition, it offers more quality and features than a phone would, making it a worthwhile upgrade.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

Abby Ferguson is the Associate Editor for Gear and Reviews at PopPhoto, joining the team in 2022. She has been involved with the photography industry in various capacities since her undergraduate training at the University of Kentucky, with work ranging from client photography to program development and management of the photo department at Evolve, a vacation rental company.

Want more photography techniques, camera reviews, and inspiration?

Cinematography

Best Travel Camera — Pros & Cons, Specs and Prices

I tching to capture some of your favorite travel moments? Maybe you want to find the best camera that will help you share your adventures online. We put together a list to help you find the best travel camera for your needs whether it be size, function, or price. The best travel moments deserve to be shot on your ideal travel camera. So let’s help you find it.

Best compact camera for travel

Panasonic lumix lx100 ii.

Panasonic LX100 II Review • Best Travel Camera

To kick things off, we’re taking a look at the best compact travel cameras. This 17 megapixel camera from Panasonic is a dynamic, compact shooter. It’s capable of shooting from 24 to 75mm with an equivalent f1.7-2.8 zoom .

Not to mention if you have video needs, the Panasonic LX100 II also shoots in 4K up to 30p. If you’re looking for a super compact camera that can fit in your pocket with decent photo and video capabilities, the Panasonic LX100 II may be a great choice. The downside to this camera is its higher price point when it comes to compact cameras.

Panasonic’s best compact camera for travel

Key features.

1:1, 4:3 , 3:2, and 16:9 aspect ratio shooting
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities
17MP photos
4K video up to 30p
Price: ~ $800

Best small camera for travel

Sony cyber-shot dsc-hx99.

The Sony HX99! Sony’s best small camera for travel

This point and shoot by Sony is as compact as these cameras get with an impressive zoom capability. Clocking in at 18.2 megapixels on a CMOS sensor, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99 utilizes a ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T zoom lens that allows you to shoot 24-720mm.

As far as ergonomics, the camera has a great flip-up touch screen that is great for selfies and/or vlogging. Some of the other key features such as optical stabilization and an electronic built-in viewfinder make this compact travel camera a reasonable buy for its price point.

Ergonomic small cameras for travel

Flip-up touch screen
Price: ~ $475

Compact and good camera for travel

Canon powershot g5 x mark ii.

DPReview TV: Canon G5 X Mark II vs. G7 X Mark III

If we’re talking about a combination of image quality, shooting functions, video capabilities, and battery life it's difficult to overlook the Canon Powershot G5 X Mark II. The compact Canon camera utilizes a CMOS sensor for 20MP shooting. It also has burst shooting at 8 fps which help you capture those fast moving travel moments.

As far as video, the Canon Powershot G5 X Mark II shoots 4K at 30fps as well as slow motion capabilities at 1080 at 120 frames per second . While the price point is highest out of all three of our compact camera options, it does pack the most function for its size.

Canon’s best travel camera

230-shot battery life
Wi-Fi + Bluetooth connectivity
Flip-up 180° touchscreen
Price: ~ $960

Best mirrorless camera for travel

Olympus om-d e-m10 mark iii.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III Review

If you’re looking to move beyond the compact, point and shoot camera into mirrorless cameras, but still consider yourself a beginner, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III might be the camera for you. This mirrorless camera is Olympus’ entry level shooter.

The camera body is still very compact making it a great mirrorless travel camera. Inside, the camera is a 16MP camera making it on the lower side of this list. The camera does, however, have top tier 5-axis in-camera stabilization. This makes it a great low-light camera sharper low-light photography.

Best small camera for travel with flash

5-axis in-camera stabilization
4K video at 30p
Pop-up built in flash
Price: ~ $400

Panasonic’s best travel camera

Panasonic lumix gx85.

Panasonic GX85/GX80 Hands-On Field Test

Next up on our list of the best mirrorless travel cameras is the Panasonic Lumix GX85. As its 16MP sensor suggests, it is made for video and photo enthusiasts rather than professionals which in turn lends itself to a more reasonable price tag.

Unlike other Panasonic cameras, however, the Lumix GX85 does not have an anti-aliasing filter. This delivers more detailed imagery. If you're looking for a solid mirrorless camera that balances performance and price tag, the Panasonic Lumix GX85 is a solid choice.

16 MP MOS sensor
5-axis image stabilization with Dual I.S.
Price: ~ $600

Best camera for travel photography

Sony A6400 • Watch Before You Buy

Last on our list of the best mirrorless travel cameras is the Sony α6400. Mirrorless cameras not only are more compact than the average DSLR camera , but pack a punch in performance.

You might see the camera’s price point of just around $1000 and be immediately deterred, but let’s run through some of its functions and capabilities that make it a tempting buy.

The α6400 carries an APS-C sensor allowing for 24MP images, by far the most on this list. Despite its compact size, the camera also has an impressive 410 shots per full battery. This should not be an overlooked capability when looking for a solid travel camera. Not to mention the camera also has a huge ISO range of 100-32000 making it great in low light situations.

With a plethora of other features such as 11fps burst shooting, 4K video at 30p, and even an external mic input, the α6400 is as legit as travel cameras get if you can afford its hefty price tag.

24MP APS-C sensor
ISO range of 100-3200
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
410 shots per full battery
Price: ~ $1000

The Best Vlogging Cameras →
Mirrorless vs DSLR — Pros and Cons →
The Best Mirrorless Cameras for Filmmaking →

Best travel camera for video

Sony A7III 2021 Review Still Worth It?

If you’re looking to shoot more video and put together some awesome travel edits or vlogs don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The Sony a7III is the video workhorse of the group here. It’s built like a tank and is often a trusty go to for plenty of outdoor adventure videographers and photographers.

It has the ability to shoot video at 4K at 24p which makes for some amazing, sharp shots. When it comes to autofocus, few cameras on this list can compare. The a7III has 93% autofocus coverage with 693 phase detection points as well as 425 for contrast detection. Worried about losing focus while getting a shot? This is the a7iii’s specialty.

A notable feature worth mentioning is the dual SD memory card slots for those that tend to fill up card after card, an easy thing to do while traveling. Obviously the downside to the a7III is its $2000 price tag which can understandably be a dealbreaker for some shooters.

Sony’s best video camera for travel

24MP full frame BSI CMOS sensor
In-camera image stabilization
93% autofocus coverage
710 shots per full battery
Price: ~ $2000

Best camera for travel blogging

Fujifilm x-t200.

Canon AE-1 • The perfect beginner 35mm film camera

The Fujifilm X-T200 is for the entry level photographer and videographer. This was the camera that Fujifilm released to replace the X-T100 as a huge upgrade. If you’re looking for an inexpensive travel video camera, the X-T200 is a great deal. The camera’s key specs are a 24MP APS-C sensor, updated autofocus system with 425 phase detect points, and 4K video with no crop.

Fujifilm video camera for travel

Compact, light camera body
Microphone and headphone inputs
425 phase-detect points in autofocus system
Price: ~ $700

GoPro Hero 9 Black

GoPro Hero 9 Black Review

This wouldn’t be a travel camera blog article without one mention of a GoPro. Afterall, GoPro redefined what a travel camera could be, where it could go, and what it could capture. The GoPro Hero 9 Black boasts an iconically small body with a 20MP sensor. The reason it’s on our video list is its ability to take 5K video at 30P as well as 4K video at 60p.

With its front-mounted LCD, you can witness the HyperSmooth digital image stabilization that is notorious in the action sports and adventure videography world. In GoPro fashion, the Hero 9 Black is waterproof without housing up to 33 meters deep.

GoPro travel videography

5K at 30fps
20MP sensor
HyperSmooth 3.0 digital image stabilization
Price: ~ $350

Best budget camera for travelling

Sony dsc-w830.

Sony DSC-W800 • Hands on with cheap best travel camera

Of course, not every traveler is going to have the budget to buy a lot of the best travel cameras on this list. Don’t fret. Here are a few budget friendly items so you can save some of that cash for more travel adventures. First on our list is the Sony DSCW830. When it comes to compatibility and affordability its hard to beat the Sony DSCW830. While it may not be the best performing camera on this list, it will certainly get the job done if you the job is simply capturing the family vacation or a day hike with friends.

Keep in mind that this 20MP camera is definitely better for capturing photos than it does video as it has an unimpressive 720p HD video capability.

Best travel camera for cheap

20MP CCD sensor
Max video resolution of 720p HD
ISO range of 80-3200
No Wifi or Bluetooth connectivity
Price: ~ $200

Best travel camera on a budget

Gopro hero 8 black.

GoPro Hero 9 VS GoPro Hero 8 Camera Comparison

While it might seem redundant to have both the GoPro Hero 8 Black and 9 Black, but the 8 is here for a good reason: it’s remarkably lower price point. At a fraction of the price of the 9 Black, the GoPro Hero 8 Black has quite a few of the same features that may not warrant an upgrade and extra expense to some.

The 8 has a 12 MP sensor as well as 4K video capability at 60 fps. Compare this to the 9’s 20MP sensor and 5K at 30fps, there is a clear difference. Is the upgrade in image sensor and 5K shooting capability worth the extra money? That will be a question you decide based on what type of traveling you will be doing and what you will be doing. That said, there is no doubt the GoPro Hero 8 Black can get the job done in most circumstances.

GoPro’s best travel camera

12MP image sensor
4K video at 60 fps
HyperSmooth 2.0 digital image stabilization
Price: ~ $240

Best small digital camera for travel

Canon powershot g9x mark ii.

Canon G9X Mark II Review • Still Worth The Buy?

Last, but certainly not least on our list of the best budget camera for traveling is the Canon PowerShot G9X Mark II. This camera, unlike the Sony DSC-W830, has a great balance of photo and video capabilities in a compact body. Boasting a 20.1MP CMOS sensor, the images from this camera will satisfy anyone looking to uplevel their simple smartphone photography. Not to mention its video shooting ability at 1080 at 60 fps.

While it may be the most expensive out of any camera on our budget travel cameras list, its performance arguably warrants its price. The camera’s DIGIC 7 processor results in a faster burst rate, quicker interface, and in-camera RAW image processing.

20.1MP CMOS sensor
1080 video at 60 fps
In-camera RAW image processing
Wifi and Bluetooth connectivity
Price: ~ $500

Best Cameras for Beginners

If you have little to no experience with camera’s outside of the smartphone realm, you might want to check out our next article. We dive into the best cameras for beginners that will help you learn and grow as an entry level photographer.

Up Next: Beginner cameras →

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Looking for a new travel camera? Get epic shots with a 360 action camera

Nov 24, 2020 • 5 min read

An invisible selfie stick can make any shot look epic

Provided by

The right travel camera can make any trip look amazing, whether you’re just taking a weekend trip close to home or checking an international destination off your bucket list. That’s what a 360 camera can deliver.

Check out this video shot by video creator Kyler Holland of his road trip to Utah using the new Insta360 ONE X2 camera. From one-wheeling down mountainous roads to rafting, it’s loads of fun and all shot on a 360 camera.

A 360 camera might seem excessive if you’re not planning to share 360-degree content. But there are a lot of hidden benefits to a 360 action camera compared to a standard action camera or digital camera. Here’s why you should consider picking one up for your next trip.

Shoot first, point later

The best thing about a 360 camera is that you don’t have to point the camera when you’re shooting. Since the camera captures in 360 degrees all around you, everything is caught on camera—no matter what. You never have to worry about whether you caught a special moment of your travels on camera.

You don’t actually have to use a 360 camera to shoot 360-degree content. When you’re settling down at the end of the day, you can “reframe” the video to focus on whatever you want to show. Just swipe around the 360 footage on your phone until you find the best angle and export the video to fit any social media platform.

The Insta360 app makes reframing even easier with “Auto Frame”. This AI algorithm analyzes your footage for you and provides you with a collection of the best angles. Just pick the one you like best and you’re done.

The invisible selfie stick

The most fun part about a 360 camera is hands-down the Invisible Selfie Stick feature. Selfie sticks might get a bad rep, but an invisible one can make any shot look epic.

How does it work? Because a 360 camera has two lenses, the selfie stick falls in the blind spot between them, making the selfie stick appear invisible in your final footage. There aren’t any magic tricks to making it disappear—just shoot with it like you would any other selfie stick. The selfie stick will automatically appear invisible when you look at your footage later.

The result? Mind-blowing aerial and third-person perspectives that look like they were shot on a drone. For solo travelers, it’s like your own personal cameraman. Never worry about asking someone for a photo again.

Unreal stabilization

Most 360 cameras also have advanced electronic image stabilization to keep your videos super steady. 360 cameras often have even better stabilization than many action cameras, because the wider field of view provides more room to stabilize the footage without cropping or losing image quality.

Heading skiing or snowboarding? Just mount the camera to your helmet or on your backpack with the selfie stick. Taking a long bike ride or motorcycle ride? Mount it to your helmet or the handlebars. Even if you’re just walking or hiking, image stabilization will make your shots look super smooth. No extra gimbals or other equipment needed.

Not only do 360 cameras correct shaky camera movements, they also correct unwanted rotations as well. Even if you turn the camera completely upside down, the video will stay upright the whole time with a level horizon.

What to look for in a 360 travel camera

So how do you pick the best 360 camera? Here are a few things to look for when you’re shopping around.

Portability Like any kind of travel gear, portability is of the essence in a travel camera. Look for a 360 camera that you can hold comfortably in your hand and slip easily in your pocket, like the Insta360 ONE X2.

Durability Most 360 cameras have two circular lenses on either side of the camera body, which might give you some anxiety about keeping the camera safe while traveling. But these cameras can be tougher than they look.

Insta360 ONE X2 is waterproof to 10 meters, with no exterior case needed. Perfect for a day at the lake, rafting down the river, or even surfing at the beach. There are also lens protectors available to keep the lenses protected while you’re on the go, or a dive case for capturing underwater content. It also boosts a high-performance battery to keep you shooting all day long.

The companion app

The last thing you might want to do after a long day of traveling is sift through all of your footage and edit it before you can share it. A clunky, frustrating editing workflow can really turn a great day into a bad one.

The Insta360 app is packed with AI editing features to make editing easier than ever. Want to just tap once and be done? Look no further than the app’s Shot Lab, which hosts a collection of one-tap templates using the latest and greatest editing techniques. All you need to do is import your footage and then Shot Lab turns it into something epic. And it’s continuously updated with new templates all the time to keep your edits fresh.

Dolly Zoom and Stop Motion templates make cinematic effects as easy as a tap. You can even clone your body with templates like Clone Trail. Or tired of people blocking your shot in crowded tourist traps? The Ghost Town template will take your 360 timelapse and remove the people from it, outputting an unobstructed photo.

It’s all super easy and makes editing super fast when you’re on the go. With a camera like Insta360 ONE X2 , you can let the camera do the work and you can just focus on having fun.

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A Guide to Camera Gear for Traveling

W hether going on a vacation for a few weeks or traveling long-term, packing a travel kit for camera gear can be challenging for photographers.

On the one hand, you want to have as much relevant camera gear as possible to account for whatever landscapes you encounter; on the other hand, packing light and minimal and sticking to the essentials is also necessary.

If you have a trip coming up soon and packing photography gear is giving you trouble, keep reading this article to learn about the essential camera gear you might need when traveling.

Camera Gear Tips

Deciding which lens to take with you can be tricky, as you can come across various scenarios while traveling, and different lenses have different advantages. We recommend going for zoom lenses over prime ones for travel photography.

Zoom lenses give you a more flexible focal range without having to double up or take multiple lenses with you for different shot types.

However, if you want to cover all the different types of lenses you might need while keeping it light, consider purchasing the following three lenses:

A walk-around lens is a versatile option for portraits or shots of food, landscapes, and buildings
An ultra-wide or wide-angle lens for architecture, astrophotography, or landscapes
A telephoto lens for wildlife

If you're still confused, try getting advice from fellow photographers or signing up for photo workshops , as they can help you better understand this subject.

2. Small Speedlight

You'll need a light source to shoot portraits or do food photography. Consider packaging a flashgun/speedlight or an LED panel.

Choosing a flashgun with rechargeable batteries is helpful, as you'll get more flashes out of one charge without buying many AA batteries.

Speedlights can help lower unnecessarily high contrast in pictures without editing the images and tweaking the shadows, reducing their quality in the process.

3. Suitable Power Bank and Spare Batteries

Owning a high-capacity power bank is essential when traveling. Most mirrorless cameras have an in-camera charging feature, which means you can use a power bank to charge it. You'll also be able to charge any other gadgets like a laptop or phone.

Additionally, keeping spare batteries is also essential. Ensure that you charge them before you go so that you don't have to worry about them later, and also pack rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for your Speedlight.

4. Reflector

Another item you need to keep in your backpack is a reflector with reversible colors. Reflectors can help mimic two light sources without investing in them separately. They usually come in four colors: gold, silver, gold/silver, white, and black, each with its use.

The silver surface is good for giving a cooler light, whereas the gold one gives a warmer glow. Similarly, the white surface is suitable for diffusing incoming light, whereas black helps absorb excess light.

5. Memory Cards

Always pack more memory cards than you think you will need. You never know how many pictures you will shoot, and if you cannot transfer photos from a full memory card to make space for more, you will have to miss shots.

Memory cards can also get damaged, corrupt, or lost, so having extra on hand can always be helpful.

There are various options to choose from, and the file output size of your camera, along with its continuous burst mode's speed, will determine which one you need.

Though tripods are not always necessary for travel photography, they can help step up your landscape photography game.

If you ever want to shoot dreamy seascapes or do some astro and wildlife photography, having a tripod on hand for stabilizing the camera will be essential.

You don't need something expensive or fancy; sometimes, a tabletop tripod can work. It's also small, lightweight, and easy to carry.

7. Travel Backpack

Having a comfortable travel backpack is essential for having a good time. If you don't have one, you won't have an enjoyable time, no matter how light you pack or how much it weighs.

When buying a travel backpack, try to go to a shop rather than getting it online. Try it on, see how it adjusts, how comfortable or padded the straps are, if it has an airflow system to keep your back cool, and whether it has external pockets for a water bottle or tripod.

There are many options, so try to look at as many as possible and choose the best one for yourself.

Wrapping Up

Packing for trips is always confusing. You don't want to leave anything behind as everything seems essential; however, on the other hand, you also know that it's important to pack light and keep things minimal.

When packing camera gear, keeping essentials like rechargeable batteries, spare memory cards, reflectors, and speed lights, and having a travel tripod with you is important.

Try to limit yourself to one camera body and a couple of versatile lenses to save space and weight. Following these tips, you can ensure your photography gear stays safe and ready for action during your travels.

This story is brought to you in partnership with Action Photo Tours.

The post A Guide to Camera Gear for Traveling appeared first on Go Backpacking .

Photographing a butterfly (photo: Jamie Street)

Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

Patriarch’s Pond
Old Arbat Street
Maroseyka Street
Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography.

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita.

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

Novoslobodskaya
Mayakovskaya
Elektrozavodskaya
Komsomolskaya
Ploschad Revolyutsii
Dostoyevskaya
Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem.

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions.

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

Click Here For More City Street Guides!

(A New Guide Posted Every Other Wednesday)

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What worn-body camera footage shows in Akron police shooting of teen with fake gun

One week after an Akron police officer fired a single shot and struck a 15-year-old boy in the hand, the city of Akron and Akron Police Department released body-worn camera footage and a call from the incident.

Footage shows − from the officer's perspective − the moment he shot the teen who allegedly pointed a gun that turned out to be fake at Goodyear Heights homes.

The officer involved in the shooting was Ryan Westlake, a nine-year veteran of the police department whose personnel file also was released Monday.

Attorney Imokhai Okolo is representing the teen, who is Tavion Koonce-Williams, an East High School student.

Officer fired, reinstated: Akron police officer who shot 15-year-old April 1 was fired, reinstated in 2021

What led to the shooting?

Akron police received a 911 call at about 7 p.m. April 1 from a woman walking her dog near Tonawanda Avenue and Newton Street. She reported a male who pulled out a gun and pointed it at houses.

Moments later, at about 7:11 p.m., Westlake pulled up alongside a home on Brittain Road near Ottawa Avenue and opened the driver-side door before questioning Tavion.

Shooting: Akron police recover fake gun from teen who was shot in the arm by officer

"Where you coming from? Can I see your hands really quick?" Westlake asked.

In the second after asking to see the teen's hands, Westlake grabbed his police-issued firearm and fired a single shot, striking Tavion's right hand. The fake gun was seen on the devil strip as the officer exited the vehicle.

"Oh s***," Westlake said immediately after shooting his gun. "Shots fired. Shots fired."

What happened after the shooting?

Tavion then threw his hands in the air, yelling that the gun was a fake, as Westlake continued pointing his service weapon at the boy while approaching him. The teen's right hand, which was shot, was partially closed.

"Drop to the ground," Westlake said. "Hands behind your back."

Laying on his stomach, Tavion was handcuffed by Westlake as other officers ran to the teen's side. Seconds later, Westlake is seen and heard removing the handcuffs, cutting the teen's shirt to provide first aid and calling for a tourniquet.

As officers provided first aid, the Tavion reiterated that the gun was fake.

"I was scared," he told officers. "I'm just coming from home. I came from my cousin's funeral and everything."

Tavion was taken to a local hospital for what police said were non-life-threatening injuries. His face was blurred in the video to protect his privacy, according to the Akron Police Department.

The video ends at 7:15 p.m., four minutes after it began, with the officer walking toward a cruiser.

Neighbors said they saw the teen walk to an ambulance.

Investigation into the incident

The gun was turned over to the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI), which is doing an independent investigation before turning it over to the Ohio Attorney General's Office for review.

The case will then be submitted to a Summit County grand jury to determine if charges are warranted.

The Akron Police Department's Office of Professional Standards and Accountability also will conduct its own investigation.

Once that internal investigation concludes, the Akron Citizens' Police Oversight Board will begin its review led by Independent Police Auditor Anthony Finnell, said Kemp Boyd, chair of the board.

Bryce Buyakie covers courts and public safety for the Beacon Journal. He can be reached by email at [email protected] or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @bryce_buyakie.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Worn-body camera footage shows moment Akron police shoot teen

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AT&T notifies regulators after customer data breach

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, watch live: total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A total solar eclipse is crossing from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States on Monday.

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT. Precisely when you'll be able to see the eclipse — and what kind of eclipse you'll be able to see — will depend on your location and time zone. More on that here .

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

Livestreams from along the path of totality

View from Vermont

Vermont Public will livestream views of the eclipse from the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. Tune in starting at 3 p.m. ET.

View from New Hampshire

NHPBS will livestream the solar eclipse from Lancaster, N.H. starting at 12 p.m. ET.

View from Maine

Maine Public will livestream from Mars Hill, Maine, starting at 2:30 p.m.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.
Feeling whimsical? Here are three ways to sprinkle a little magic into your eclipse experience .

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time.

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How we got the photo: Capturing the 2024 solar eclipse over Dallas’ Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge

Pulitzer prize-winning photojournalist tom fox explains his camera techniques for snapping shots of the awe-inspiring celestial event..

Darkness falls on the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge as the sun is covered by the moon during a...

5:43 PM on Apr 9, 2024 CDT

Editor’s note: The Dallas Morning News published many memorable photographs of the 2024 total solar eclipse in Dallas, but one image by Staff Photographer Tom Fox felt so immediately iconic that we devoted the entire front page of our April 9, 2024, print and digital editions to it. Here, we’ve asked Fox to describe what it took to get that photograph. You can obtain a copy of this collectible front page edition along with many more of our eclipse images inside The Dallas Morning News Store . For more of our stories on the eclipse, visit dallasnews.com/eclipse .

Photographing an eclipse takes preparation. Lots of preparation.

Having a set time and place for the event makes it both easier and more difficult. The easy part is you know where the moon is going to be in the sky and when. There are several apps that can assist with this. I use The Photographer’s Ephemeris . But nothing compares to standing in the spot where the picture needs to be taken.

For the four-minute window, I made a couple of trips to the Trinity River bottom, including the day before, at 1:40 p.m.

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This is not an exclusive idea, as there were several other photographers who had the same idea, evidenced by little markers in the weedy area. I placed my stake in the ground so I could re-find my spot. On Monday, I befriended some other photographers who were setting up as I anchored my tripod with a bungee cord and dog-leash stake. I set the camera horizontally to capture the cables leading to the apex of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and the total eclipse above it. Knowing the shape of our front page, I left enough room to crop it vertically.

The front page of The Dallas Morning News on April 9, 2024.

Now for the hard part: What is the exposure in totality? Do I have enough depth of field to ensure that it appears sharp? For that, I leaned on my colleague Smiley Pool, who’s photographed a pair of solar eclipses. Taking into account his moon exposures and the uncertainty of the bridge’s lights turning on, I settled on auto-exposing the image at a high ISO, an f-stop of 11 and Auto White Balance (since the bridge is white). To crib my exposure, I shot the image on RAW, so I could tweak any mistakes later.

I say all this because I wasn’t planning to actually be at the camera to make any adjustments during the eclipse. I was assigned to photograph the scene on the adjacent Ron Kirk Pedestrian Bridge, and I would have to activate the stationary camera remotely at the time of totality. With gracious help from a newfound friend, we coordinated a test shot. Good to go.

As visitors started filing onto the bridge, I was joined by our reporter María Ramos Pacheco and security guard Nick Patel as I set up a 600 mm lens on a large-sensor, mirrorless camera to capture all of the detail. About every 10 to 12 minutes, depending on the clouds, I made photos of the transition going in and out of totality using a solar filter over the end of the lens.

Patel was a godsend. Not only for watching over all of my gear and setups, but for helping me keep my sanity as I desperately searched for the solar filters I had purposely placed for safekeeping in my wagon.

In between the stages of the eclipse, I would venture out for a few minutes trying to capture feature photos of mesmerized people viewing the eclipse with downtown in the distance. Nothing could have prepared me for what most of us have never experienced: a sudden loss of light in the middle of the day. To the east, it appeared as if the sun was rising again behind downtown Dallas; to the west, it appeared to have set. In between, I was scrambling to capture the totality with the long lens, people’s reaction to it with the wider lens, and the remote camera photographing “Large Marge.”

Somehow it all came out, even the two wide-angle GoPro cameras I mounted on the bridge for a time-lapse.

Tom Fox , Sr. Visual Journalist . Tom was part of a small team of photographers at The Dallas Morning News who won the 2006 Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Photography for coverage of Hurricane Katrina. In 2020, Tom was also named a Pulitzer Prize finalist for breaking news photography for his images of a gunman opening fire on a federal courthouse in downtown Dallas.

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The best travel camera in 2024: compact and portable cameras to take anywhere

The Quick List

The best travel camera in 2024

Best compact travel camera

1. Fujifilm X100VI

Specifications

Best full frame on a budget

2. Sony A7 III

Best hybrid travel camera

3. Fujifilm X-S20

Best travel camera for size

4. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Best travel camera on a budget

5. Panasonic Lumix G100

Best waterproof compact travel camera

6. OM System Tough TG-7

Best action camera for travel

7. DJI Osmo Action 4

Best 360º camera for travel

8. Insta360 X3

Best for travel vloggers

9. Sony ZV-E10

How to choose the right travel camera

Is it better to use phone or camera for travel?

Is a DSLR or mirrorless camera better for travel photography?

What size camera lens is best for travel?

How we test travel cameras

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Related articles

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

Best for moving subjects

How to choose

The quick list

The best travel camera overall

The best-looking travel camera

The best action camera for travel

The best tough travel camera

The best premium compact

The best small full-frame camera

The best hybrid for travel vlogging

The best superzoom camera

The best travel cameras in 2024

1. OM System OM-5

Specifications

The best-value travel camera

2. Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200

3. Nikon Z fc

4. GoPro Hero 12 Black

5. OM System Tough TG-7

6. Fujifilm X100VI

7. Sony A7C R

8. Fujifilm X-S20

9. Sony A6700

10. Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

How to choose the best travel camera for you

Which type of camera is best for traveling?

Is a DSLR or mirrorless camera better for travel photography?

How we test travel cameras

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Notable Mentions

Best Compact Camera For Travel

Best Mid-Range Compact Camera For Travel

Best Budget Compact Camera For Travel

Best Compact Vlogging Camera For Travel

Best Large Sensor Compact Camera For Travel

Our Expert Guide to the BEST Travel Cameras in 2024

Our Recommendation

GoPro HERO12 Black – The Best Action Camera

Canon Powershot SX740HS – The Best Affordable Camera

Sony RX100 vii – The Best Compact Camera for Travel

Canon G7X Mark iii – Best Camera for Vlogging

Sony A6600 – Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel

Best Wide Angle Lens

Best Portrait Lens

Best Zoom Lens

Sony A7iv – Best Professional Camera for Travel Photography

Best All-Round Lens

Best Prime Lens

DJI Mavic Air 2 – The Best Drone for Travel