good travel camera

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 best travel camera: see the world and capture amazing images

The Quick List ↩
Best overall
Most versatile
Best full frame
Best action
Best hybrid
Best for size
Best waterproof
Best luxury
Best for kids

Honorable mentions

Comparisons.

How to choose
How we test

The best travel cameras have to do one crucial thing – be better than your phone. 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).

To be a top traveling companion, the best travel cameras need to combine compactness with image quality, advanced features with simple operation, and ideally – the ability to share your holiday photos and vacation videos quickly.

In this guide, I'll look at mirrorless cameras that offer the best 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 simple to use – although fixed lenses limit their versatility. And finally, action cameras that are robust cameras made for wild adventures!

Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World, and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. He never misses an opportunity to travel, or an excuse to take photos while traveling, so is best placed to judge what are the best travel cameras for all sorts of different vacations and adventures.

The Quick List

Below are my top picks for the best travel camera to buy right now. If you want more information on each camera – you can find more comprehensive entries for each model further down the page .

Fujifilm X100VI product image on a white background

Travel cameras should be small, light, and feature-packed. 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. Although the fixed lens will be limiting to some.

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 travel camera overall

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 very compact camera, the whole package of camera and lens are so small that you can easily slip this into a jacket or rucksack pocket. ✅ You want a camera that looks good: The X100VI is easily one of the best-looking cameras you can buy. The stunning retro looks of old-school film cameras are matched with superb build quality.

❌ You want a range of lenses: the lens is fixed on the X100VI, so you are stuck with the 23mm focal length, although its digital cropping modes give the illusion (but not performance) of more focal lengths ❌ You want a cheap travel camera: the X100VI has a premium price tag, and there are options that produce a similar image quality, if you don't mind a different style of camera that is.

If you are looking for a camera for traveling, then one of the major things to look out for is something small and lightweight that can easily slip into a bag or a jacket pocket and won't be a drag to carry around for long periods – enter the Fujifilm X100VI .

The X100VI is a fixed-lens camera, which means that it has a single lens that can't be changed. The lens is 23mm, or equivalent to a 35mm length lens on on a full-frame camera, a perfect length for travel photography as it is wide enough to get in landscapes and street scenes, but narrow enough for portraits and family shots. While there are converters available for the X100V to change the length of the lens, I find these have an adverse effect on image quality, but the X100VI does have a trick to crop images when taking them to give the illusion of additional focal lengths, although at a reduced pixel count.

The X100V 40MP photos however are stunning and packed with detail. There is also human, animal, bird, and vehicle autofocus tracking, so you can snap away with confidence that your shots will be in focus. Finally, image stabilization helps cut out hand jitters in low light or shooting video, for more stable footage.

For those who want to share travel snaps as you go, you get access to Fujifilm 's awesome film simulations and custom recipes, which takes the work out of editing, and with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity and the Fujifilm X App, you can quickly share ready to post photos and video to social from your phone.

The X100XI form factor and tilt-only screen mean this is not the most ideal camera for video on this list, but you can get 6.2K (cropped), 4K, or HD video with slow motion reaching 240 frames per second. If you are more serious about video then check out the Fujifilm X-S20 below .

The X100VI's design will certainly catch a few eyes while traveling. The camera is lovely to hold, made with premium materials, and with a wonderful hybrid optical viewfinder that shows either the optical view or how it looks through the sensor with a flick of a button. However, one major downside for travel – the X100VI lens is not weather-sealed without an adapter, which comes at an additional cost.

Speaking of cost, this premium camera comes at a premium price, with some similar tech available for less in other models. But for the build quality and features, I think it does a lot to justify its higher price, but if you want the best compact camera, there is nothing better than this.

The best travel camera for versatility

2. Sony a6700

✅ You want a compact and lightweight camera: the a6700 comes with Sony's top specs in its most portable body. ✅ You want a great hybrid camera for content creation: not just a great camera for stills, the a6700's 4K video with excellent tracking and stabilization offers a killer hybrid experience.

❌ You have big Sony lenses: while you can use any E-mount lens, the a6700 becomes very front-heavy with big lenses, but Sony has plenty of excellent smaller lens options. ❌ If price is an issue: the a6700 is a top camera but comes with a price to match. There is a lot of cheaper options if you can compromise on specs from Nikon, Canon, Fuji, and Sony cameras in its ZV line.

The Sony a6xxx series has always been a favorite among photographers who value portability and versatility, with Sony continuously managing to squeeze more impressive features into the range while maintaining its incredibly compact form factor. The latest addition, the a6700, is a step forward from its predecessor, the a6600, boasting upgraded autofocus and in-body image stabilization.

The camera retains the compact APS-C design, although the button layout has been improved, as well as the menu system making for a more enjoyable to use camera, although with a body as compact as this, the layout is still a little cramped. This is especially true when handling larger full-frame lenses with the a6700, which remains somewhat awkward, but if you opt for Sony's smaller enthusiast lenses, you'll find a better balance, but distinguishing between the two formats can be confusing.

Although this lens conundrum is also one of the camera's biggest strengths. The a6700 can take the huge range of E-mount lenses from Sony, or third parties like Sigma and Tamron – which makes this one of the most versatile cameras you can get. The a6700 paired with a compact lens can be small enough to slip into a pocket for city breaks or can be attached to the end of a big telephoto zoom for safaris.

For keen photographers, the a6700 is capable of some stunning images, and improved tracking, faster shooting speeds, and in-body image stabilization make it easier than ever to ensure you get top photos. For hybrid creators, the a6700 also has impressive 4K60p video capabilities, oversampled from 6K, although if video is more your thing that stills, the Sony ZV range like the ZV-E10 II , might be a better choice.

Although pricier than its predecessor and some competitors, the a6700 offers a lot of impressive features, although there are a lot of challengers from Nikon , Canon , Fuji, and Panasonic nipping at its heels if you can compromise on the a6700's compact design.

Read more: Sony a6700 review • Best lenses for Sony a6700

Best full frame on a budget

Sony A7 III being held by reviewer Hannah Rooke

3. Sony A7 III

✅ You want full frame quality: full frame cameras can produce more focus separation and are better in low light, the A7 III is the most affordable step into full frame. ✅ You want a camera to use outside of traveling: the A7 III is a pro-level camera that is not just for travel, you can shoot brilliant photos all year round with a multitude of lenses available for different subjects.

❌ You don't want the expense of lenses: the cost of lenses can add up, especially ones for full-frame cameras, if you want to keep costs low, choose a fixed lens camera or an option with smaller cheaper lenses. ❌ You want a small camera: the A7 III isn't huge, but it also isn't small. With a lens attached, it is going to take up quite a bit of room in a bag, and won't be sliding in any pocket.

While the Sony A7 III might be the oldest Sony Alpha camera still being sold as new, even being replaced by a newer Sony A7 VI, it more than holds its own today. Any photographer looking for an excellent full-frame hybrid camera for traveling should seriously consider this camera as an option.

Why? Well, I don't think there is a better value full-frame camera out there, which when traveling can take some of the jeopardy out of damaging or losing your incredibly expensive kit.

It might be getting on a little, but the camera still has a very competitive 24.2MP back-illuminated image sensor, which delivers great tonal range and makes high ISO settings possible, which anyone who is shooting a lot in low light on their travels will really appreciate. A 5-axis image stabilization system also delivers less shake when shooting at night, or capturing video.

And if you are also looking to get some video footage on your travels then the A7III has very capable 4K video, although has been surpassed by a few other models on this list which would be more suitable if video is a priority.

The A7III has a speedy and accurate 696-point AF system, and while not the latest algorithms, the A7 III also has some solid human face and eye tracking, so you can take reliably focused photos of your friends, family, or any interesting denizens you meet out on your travels.

Whilst the A7III can be thrown a little off-balance with big pro lenses, Sony's lens range is extensive and there are many smaller primes to suit this camera perfectly for those who don't want to carry a lot while traveling. Or superzoom lenses like the Sony FE 24-240mm will empower you to capture everything from near to far.

Read more: Sony A7 III review • Best lenses for Sony A7 III

Best action camera for travel

A photo of the GoPro Hero 12 Black action camera

4. GoPro Hero12 Black

✅ You need a camera that can survive the elements: if you are planning on getting wet, cold, or sandy then the GoPro can survive it all. ✅ You want a tiny camera for attaching to things: you can stick this to a helmet, handlebars, surfboards, you name it, there is a likely a mount for it.

❌ You want the best low-light performance: the GoPro's sensor isn't especially good in low-light ❌ You want to take a lot of photos: the GoPro's wide-angle lens takes interesting perspective photos, but they are quite limited

The Hero 12 Black brings back (almost) everything that was great about the Hero 11 Black and refines it. Offering more shooting options with log recording as well as a much better audio recording experience with new Bluetooth options as well as the ability to record from dual audio sources.

However, one omission that might disappoint some users is the GoPro Hero12 is the first hero in several generations to not include GPS, which could well be make or break depending on your passion for geo-tagging your images. If this does completely turn you off, then check out the Hero11 Black, for mostly the same hardware, plus GPS.

Ditching GPS however does extend the battery life of the Hero12 which is definitely welcome, and will save you from having to switch batteries in environments where it isn't always easy to do so.

Down to brass tax. When it comes to video, the colors and quality of GoPro's footage still put it out front compared to competitors – in good light that is. The Hero12 unfortunately suffers quite a lot in low light, with the smaller pixels in its 1/1.9-inch not up to its chief rival – the DJI Osmo Action 4. But while GoPro hasn't cracked lowlight video, for anyone who wants detail in bright environments, we'd still call the 12 Black the best action camera for video.

GoPros' HyperSmooth 6.0 image stabilization continues to be incredible at producing gimbal-like footage without the gimbal, and the AutoBoost feature seamlessly gets the steadiest footage at the widest crop. New HDR modes and well as Log recording also work well in bright environments to push details in the highs and shadows further.

Finally, photos are solid, again in good light, although the very wide angle lens of 156º limits how good this is as a photography camera, but in areas you wouldn't dare take a mirrorless or compact camera, it's perfect for getting a few snaps.

Read more: GoPro Hero 12 Black review • Best GoPro accessories

Best hybrid travel camera

5. Fujifilm X-S20

✅ You shoot video and photos: the Fujifilm X-S20 is the best of both worlds, with great-looking photos and awesome video skills too! ✅ You want to balance price and features: the X-S20 offers a lot for its price, and it is one of the best-value cameras around, you will struggle to find matching video specs at this price point.

❌ You don't really care about video: Fuji's X-T5, X-T50, and X100VI might suit photographers more than the X-S20 with higher megapixel counts for stills. ❌ You might need weather resistance: the X-S20 is not weather-sealed, so if you plan to get adventurous, a camera that can handle dust and water might be a better choice.

When I tested the Fujifilm X-S20 I was just so impressed at the amount of features that Fujifilm had managed to squeeze into its petite body – it's not just a great stills camera, it is also one of the best video cameras available, and the cherry on top, it is really well priced! For anyone looking for a hybrid camera to shoot a mix of photos and video, I think this is the best hybrid camera for any traveler right now.

Fujifilm chose not to update the X-Trans IV sensor from the X-S10, but this sensor despite its age still holds up very well today when it comes to stills. The X-S20 is also able to use Fujifilm's excellent film simulations and programmable film recipes to create ready-to-use images straight from the camera, which makes any regular social media posting that much easier. The new X-Processor 5 also brings brand new subject recognition and tracking autofocus, making taking photos on the fly quicker and more reliable.

Despite its compact size, the X-S20 is a deceptively powerful video camera. The new processor combined with the modest resolution sensor means the X-S20 is capable of 6K video using the entire sensor (open-gate). The camera is also capable of numerous codecs and F-Log for getting in-depth with color grading. The subject recognition and tracking also carry through into videos and there are dedicated vlogging video features too.

Some might prefer the classic retro style like the X-T5 or X-T30 II, but with fewer manual dials, the X-S20 is a more user-friendly camera, with a more useful fully articulating screen than any of the X-T range. The camera is small, but handling is great with enough of a comfortable grip for long days, and the camera pairs really well with Fujifilm's small zoom and prime lenses, making traveling light with a kitted-out X-S20 a little easier. While the price is a little higher than the X-S10 that preceded it, I think the price bump is justified as this is one capable camera for traveling.

Read more: Fujifilm X-S20 review & best lenses for Fujfilm X-S20

Best travel camera for size

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

6. 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 more: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review & Best Olympus lenses

Best waterproof compact travel camera

7. 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 you are 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, the Tough can capture decent 4K video, and will get some perfectly serviceable footage for social and YouTube of your wild adventures!

Best luxury camera for travel

8. Leica Q3

✅ You like to crop: the 60MP sensor allows for so much space to crop into which is made even easier with the lens's digital crop feature. ✅ You want the coolest camera: the X100VI might be uber popular, but the Q3 is arguably an even cooler camera to be seen with.

❌ You prioritize value: you can get much more feature-packed cameras for considerably less money than the Q3. ❌ You want to change lenses: despite the clever digital crop zoom, the fixed lens is still limiting for distant subjects.

If you are looking for one of the most stylish cameras to take with you on your travel adventures then the Leica Q3 ticks all the boxes. From the iconic German brand, the Leica Q3 is a camera that is designed to inspire camera envy wherever you go with its effortless cool style. Although, as ever with a Leica – it doesn't come cheap.

But you're not just paying for style and a red dot logo, the Leica Q3 is an all-round fantastic travel camera. Its compact size and fixed lens make it easy to carry around while exploring new places, and I had a really good experience shooting with this camera around London.

The 60MP sensor delivers stunning images with the Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH. being incredibly sharp, and while the fixed nature of the lens might appear limiting, its digital crop feature is incredible. With a huge 60MP to play with the Q3 can crop to the equivalent of 90mm and still produce 8MP images, so its almost like you have a zoom lens. The max aperture of f/1.7 and the full frame lens also mean you can get beautifully rendered out-of-focus backgrounds for some pro-looking images.

Autofocus is quick and accurate, there are new modes for tracking human subjects, which work really well, and animal subjects, which work less well. Animal recognition was a little erratic, but then this isn't really intended as a safari camera so I can let it off a little here. Additionally, good dynamic range and the Q3's unique Leica-rendered color and monochrome modes give fantastic out-of-camera images ready for sharing on the go via the excellent Leica Fotos app.

When it comes to video, while the Q3 has solid video specs, this is far from a hybrid camera. The camera's 8K video capabilities shine, providing a lot of detail, although I would question if 8K recording is really necessary, the Q3 also offers great 4K for smaller and more usable files. Image stabilization is also good, but not up to the standard of other manufacturers.

But for style plus substance, the Leica Q3 is a great option for travel – if you can afford it that is.

Best travel camera for kids

Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 point and shoot compact camera

9. Kodak Pixpro FZ55

✅ You want a camera it's okay to break or lose: if you are the type of person who worries about expensive camera gear while traveling, then this $100 camera might save you some stress. ✅ You want a super simple camera: this is perhaps one of the most straightforward frill-less cameras you can buy.

❌ You want good image quality: images are not great quality, and bested by some phone cameras. ❌ You want to shoot video: max 1080p video is woefully low quality for modern devices.

The Kodak Pixpro FZ55 is one of the cheapest cameras you can buy brand new, and while it is a heavily compromised camera (more on that in a second), it serves a purpose as a fantastic option for traveling while not having to worry about expensive gear.

While it would suit any travel photographer who doesn't want to stress about damaging or losing expensive gear, the FZ55 is especially perfect for a child showing a budding interest in photography but is too young to be entrusted with a smartphone or larger gear.

The Kodak is robust and can survive a little rough and tumble. It is incredibly simplistic to use, so won't confuse or overwhelm anyone trying to get to grips with photography for the first time. While the 5x optical zoom lens also gives the freedom to play with framing.

The downside to the camera being so affordable is that the image quality is sub-par, with photos having a distinctive compact camera look to them that is reminiscent of the early years of digital photography. While smartphones with their intensive processing of images can take better photos, that isn't the point of having a simplistic dedicated camera. Plus, grungier imperfect photos are all the rage right now on social media, so get on trend.

Video is also abysmal, with the camera maxing out at Full HD 1080P footage, which is poor quality and way behind the 4K video that is now standard in almost every other camera.

Despite all these flaws I am still recommending it for the reasons I opened with, if you a looking for a camera where simplicity and affordability come first, the Kodak Pixpro FZ55 is definitely worth considering.

How to choose the best 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?

This really depends on what you are taking photos of and where those photos are going. Your phone can handle a few quick snaps for social media, but if you want the best quality for printing then a camera with a much larger sensor has the edge.

You also need to ask yourself if 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 which is the best of both worlds.

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 smaller 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.

A good place to start is with the kit lens that comes bundled with many cameras as this will cover the most commonly used focal ranges. Kit lenses are generally very small and light, although the cheapest kit lenses do not typically deliver the best image quality, so you might want to think about upgrading as you develop.

I personally travel with a single wide aperture prime lens, with my preferred length being 35mm. A prime lens such as this is a versatile focal length for different subjects, is generally a small lens and wide apertures are great in low light.

Then there are superzoom lenses that cover the widest range possible in one lens, while also trying to ensure that lens remains a travelable size. I'd 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. So 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.

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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.

Basil Kronfli
James Artaius Editor

I own a 50MP camera, and now I've been convinced I need a 100MP one. Here's why

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

The best travel cameras for your next big trip

Lead image for the best travel camera buying guide, featuring the OM System OM-5

1. Best overall
2. Best travel compact
3. Best-looking
4. Best action cam
5. Best tough camera
6. Best premium compact
7. Best small full-frame
8. Best hybrid vlogger
9. Best for moving subjects
10. Best superzoom
How to choose
How we test

We’re often asked what is the best travel camera. The answer depends on what you plan to do with it: a city break is best shot with something small and sharp, while adventurous travels demand something more rugged. That’s why this list is so diverse. Down below you'll find everything from premium compacts to mirrorless hybrids, all of which are great travel cameras in their own way.

After countless hours on the road, our favorite travel camera is the OM System OM-5. Thanks to a Micro Four Thirds sensor, it’s usefully portable yet captures better images than a smartphone. It’s also weatherproof and offers the flexibility to swap lenses. That said, we know it won't be the right choice for every traveller.

We don't pick our top travel cameras on specs alone. We've tested them all out in the real world, to check factors such as handling, image stabilization and image quality. The idea of this guide is to give you an in-depth summary of our findings, to help make it easier for you to choose your ideal travel camera. If compact size is your number one criteria, it's also worth checking out our best compact cameras guide.

Top 3 picks

If you don’t have time to read our full list of the best travel cameras, you can use this summary for a quick overview of the top options for your needs and budget. When 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 compact travel camera

If you want a camera that slips in your pocket but has smartphone-beating image quality, then the GR IIIx is well worth a look.

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.

Best by use-case

The best action camera for travel

With superlative stabilization and a useful 8:9 sensor for sharing videos to social, this is the best action camera for capturing intrepid travels.

The best tough travel camera

When travels get tough, you need a camera that can keep up – which is where the rugged TG-7 comes into its own, with a hardcore build and simple interface.

Fujifilm X100VI compact camera on a white background

The best premium compact

With a large sensor, 23mm focal length and small form factor, the X100VI is a powerful tool for street photography on your travels.

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.

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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.

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras Editor. He has more than 15 years' experience as a photographer and tech journalist. He's traveled widely in that time, including several years spent living and capturing images in Kenya. As a result, he's developed a deeply practical knowledge of what makes an excellent travel camera. Tim notes, "There's no one-size fits all travel camera, but all of the options recommended here share a few key traits: each is relatively portable, handles well while on the move and is capable of producing impressive holiday photos."

The best travel cameras in 2024

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

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

1. OM System OM-5

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid, om system om-5 sample images.

✅ 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 represents 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 to change 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 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

2. Ricoh GR IIIx

Ricoh gr iiix sample images.

✅ You go on city breaks: It's small and discreet for city photography, where its poor battery life and less than desirable build quality aren't so much of an issue.

✅ You want smartphone-beating picture quality: Its large sensor and sharp lens, together with gorgeous color profiles, mean the GR IIIx produces lovely results.

❌ You want a powerful zoom: The GR IIIx's lens is fixed, which means it's sharp but it can't zoom in on distant action and landmarks.

❌ You shoot video a lot: With a basic video spec of just FHD video and mono audio, the GR IIIx is a photography first camera way behind today's smartphones for video recording.

If you want a truly pocketable camera with excellent image quality, the Ricoh GR IIIx is one of our top picks. It packs an APS-C sensor, the kind you usually find on bigger mirrorless cameras. It's also equipped with a fixed 40mm f/2.8 lens, which has the ideal focal length for everyday photography. The two together, combined with lovely in-camera color profiles, mean the GR IIIx is capable of rich, pin-sharp stills. We found its clever snap focus setting is also particularly well-suited to street photography.

The GR IIIx isn't perfect: there's no built-in flash, battery life is poor, the touchscreen is fixed and it won't stand up to rigorous treatment. However, you're making those compromises to obtain what is the best image quality of any camera this small. This is one of the few true compact cameras still being manufactured in 2024 and we think it's perfect for city breaks.

Read our in-depth Ricoh GR IIIx review

3. Nikon Z fc

Nikon z fc sample images.

✅ 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 analog 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 . Our tests found that its 20.9MP APS-C sensor does a stellar job of capturing stills and 4K video, aided by reliable tracking autofocus. The Z fc has an excellent handle on noise too, 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

Gopro hero 12 black sample video.

✅ 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 that's as comfortable shooting smooth videos as it is crisp photos, then the GoPro Hero 12 Black tops the bill. It's a limited update to the Hero 11 Black , but that's not necessarily a bad thing: that camera was already highly capable. You get the same 1/1.9in sensor with a versatile 8:9 aspect ratio (which lets you reframe for social without sacrificing quality), while its max resolution of 5.3K/60p beats the DJI Osmo Action 4 . You can also pull 24.7MP stills from 5.3K video.

Design-wise, there's no change here: its physically identical to the Hero 11 Black. It comes 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.

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

5. OM System Tough TG-7

Om system tough tg-7 sample images.

✅ 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.

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

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

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

6. Fujifilm X100VI

Fujifilm x100vi sample images.

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

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

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X100VI review

7. Sony A7C R

Sony a7c r sample images.

✅ 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

Fujifilm x-s20 sample video.

✅ 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 , the Fujifilm X-S20 cements its position as a fantastic mirrorless cameras for travel. Its balanced body handled comfortably in testing, with simplified dials making it accessible for beginners. Novice-friendly features like a dedicated Vlogging mode also make it a forgiving camera for touring first-timers, as does the automatic scene detection mode: this 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.

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. 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

Best for moving subjects

9. sony a6700, sony alpha a6700 sample images.

✅ You want a capable travel hybrid: A sharp APS-C sensor, five-axis stabilization and AI autofocus make the A6700 a great all-rounder to take on the road.

✅ You like to get hands-on: A more ergonomic grip and lots of direct-access buttons make the A6700 a nice camera to handle and use.

❌ You shoot mostly video: The A6700 can record sharp video, but there’s a heavy 1.6x crop on 4K/120p slow-mo and Active SteadyShot stabilization isn’t the best.

❌ You like simple menus: The interface on the A6700 has quite a learning curve, and it can be tricky to navigate when shooting out and about.

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

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

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

Read our in-depth Sony A6700 review

10. Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

Sony rx10 iv sample images.

✅ 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

How to choose the best travel camera

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 12 Black – perfect if you plan to shoot quick, slick travel clips. Or it could be a sturdy compact such as the Olympic TG-7, 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 OM System OM-5 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.

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

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

☑️ 100s of cameras reviewed ☑️ 15 years of product testing ☑️ Over 16,000 products reviewed in total ☑️ Nearly 200,000 hours testing tech

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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Notable Mentions

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

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

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

Best Camera For Travel

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

Beyond its relatively small size, the camera is weather-sealed and feels well-built overall. It has an excellent five-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system, which can help you get steadier shots at slower shutter speeds or while recording vlogs. That said, the OM-5 doesn't have the longest battery life, so you might have to pick up a spare battery for long days on the go, but overall, this is an excellent travel camera for the price. If you want to save even more money, the older Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is nearly identical and can be found for less if you buy used, though it uses an older processor and lacks some extra features like 'Live ND' mode.

See our review

Best Full Frame Camera For Travel

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

The real star here, of course, is the camera's high-resolution full-frame sensor, which has plenty of dynamic range and great noise handling in trickier lighting conditions. On top of that, the camera has a fantastic battery life and a sturdy, weather-sealed body. That said, its ergonomics leave a little to be desired, particularly when shooting through the tiny viewfinder. If you want to save some money, the original Sony α7C is practically a bargain now, though the new model is more well-rounded, with better video features and a higher-resolution sensor.

Best Mid-Range Camera For Travel

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

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

Best Budget Camera For Travel

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best budget cameras we've tested for travel. Like the higher-end OM SYSTEM OM-5 above, it uses a Micro Four Thirds sensor, making for a remarkably portable camera kit with plenty of lightweight and affordable lens options. It's also a great choice for beginners, thanks to simple controls and easy-to-use creative shooting modes.

This is also one of the only cameras at this price point to feature IBIS, which can help capture handheld images at slower shutter speeds and comes in handy for stabilizing videos and vlogs. That said, this is still an entry-level model, so it doesn't have the greatest build quality. Its autofocus system can also be sluggish with faster subjects. If you'd prefer a camera with a more reliable autofocus system, the Canon EOS R50 is an amazing alternative and comes a bit cheaper. However, its lens options are more limited, and it's less portable overall.

Best Point-And-Shoot Camera For Travel

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

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

Best Vlogging Camera For Travel

If you prefer to vlog about your travels rather than photograph them, try the Sony ZV-1. Like the Sony RX100 VII above, it uses a 1-inch type sensor, performing similarly when it comes to image quality and autofocus, but it has a different design, with no viewfinder and a shorter zoom range. On the flip side, it's one of the only compact cameras to feature a fully articulated screen that's ideal for recording yourself. Plus, it has a better built-in mic than most point-and-shoots, complete with a detachable windscreen to cut down on wind noise while recording.

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

Fujifilm X100V: The Fujifilm X100V is a large-sensor point-and-shoot camera. It isn't nearly as portable as the Sony RX100 VII, and its fixed focal length isn't as versatile as the Sony camera's zoom lens. However, it's still relatively compact, and its larger sensor captures higher-quality images if that's a priority. The Fujifilm X100VI has since replaced it, but we haven't tested it yet, and it's nearly as hard to find as its predecessor. See our review
Nikon Z f: The Nikon Z f is an excellent full-frame option for travel, particularly if you like vintage-style cameras. It has a retro-inspired and relatively portable design but isn't as compact as the Sony α7C II. See our review
RICOH GR IIIx: Like the RICOH GR III, the RICOH GR IIIx is a great alternative to the Sony RX100 VII. It's nearly identical to the GR III but features a 40mm focal length lens instead of the wider 28mm focal length on the GR III. The Sony is still more versatile for most travelers thanks to its zoom lens, better autofocus, and 4k video capability. See our review
Sony ZV-E1: The Sony ZV-E1 is a full-frame camera that's even more compact than the Sony α7C II. It's a great choice for high-quality travel videos, with a sensor optimized for low light. However, it lacks a viewfinder and is generally less versatile for photographers and hybrid shooters. See our review

Jul 04, 2024: We added the RICOH GR IIIx to the Notable Mentions as another option for those looking for a minimalist compact camera.

Jun 04, 2024: We brushed up some of the text in the article for clarity and reviewed the picks to ensure they're still current.

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

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

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

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

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

The 12 Best Cameras for Travel Photography in 2024

A Post By: Matt Murray

This article was updated in February 2024 with contributions from Matt Murray and Jaymes Dempsey.

Need a top-notch travel camera so you can capture gorgeous photos of your next adventure? You’ve come to the right place.

Picking the best camera for travel photography can be hard work, considering the array of options on the market. Fortunately, I’ve spent decades traveling with dozens of cameras (film, instant, and digital), and below, I share my top 12 favorite models.

Note that I’ve offered a variety of choices, including models for beginners, professionals, and everyone in between – as well as cameras at every price point, from affordable point-and-shoot models all the way up to pro-level full-frame cameras. (In other words: No matter your requirements, we’ve got you covered!)

So if you’re ready to find the perfect camera, then let’s dive right in, starting with our top choice:

1. Sony a7C II

The original a7C was an excellent travel photography camera in its own right, thanks to the full-frame sensor and compact body – but the Sony a7C II , which debuted in the fall of 2023, is even better than its predecessor.

Sony’s latest full-frame offering is an all-around great camera, but travel photographers in particular will appreciate the extremely compact body combined with the impressive 33 MP full-frame sensor. Expect outstanding low-light capabilities for interior architecture and nighttime street shots as well as amazing autofocus performance when capturing travel portraits and action scenes. Plus, if you like to do a mix of photo and video shooting while exploring distant countries, you’ll love the beautiful 4K/60p video.

The in-body image stabilization ensures sharper handheld shots when working at slower shutter speeds, such as when shooting at restaurants and in churches (where tripod use is often restricted), and the camera also includes access to a tremendous line of travel photography lenses. My biggest gripe is the lower-resolution electronic viewfinder, which is on par with the old a7C as well as the Sony a7 III. But it’s still highly usable, and for serious travel shooters looking for top-notch image quality in a compact body, the a7C II is a stellar pick.

Ultra-compact body
Excellent 33 MP full-frame sensor
Amazing low-light performance
In-body image stabilization
2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder
Somewhat pricey

2. Nikon Z fc

Looking for solid image quality in a portable, easy-to-use camera? Then check out the Nikon Z fc , which offers plenty of handy features, not to mention a retro-style, streamlined camera body.

The Z fc boasts a high-quality APS-C sensor , so you’ll have no problem capturing beautiful images of landscapes, cities, and any other subject you might encounter on your travels – yet the camera is relatively small and inconspicuous, so you won’t need to worry when photographing in busy areas or carrying the camera for long hours on buses, planes, or trains.

The film-type dials on the top of the camera promise a tactile shooting experience, and the articulating screen makes it easy to capture photos and videos of all kinds. Speaking of video, the Z fc does offer 4K recording, so if you also like to vlog or shoot cinema-type footage while traveling, you’ll be thoroughly impressed by the results.

And did I mention that you can grab the Z fc for under $1000? In other words, it’s a great option for travel photographers on a budget!

Great image quality
Reasonable price
Beautiful design
Retro style doesn’t suit all photographers
Not as small as point-and-shoot options

3. Fujifilm X-T30 II

The X-T30 II is the latest model in Fujifilm’s midrange APS-C lineup, which successfully packs high-level features into smaller, lighter bodies. The X-T30 II boasts a capable 26-megapixel APS-C sensor (so you won’t struggle to capture printable images even in low-light scenarios), and it can shoot up to a whopping 30 frames per second (so you don’t need to worry about capturing those split-second moments on your travels). Like other Fujifilm cameras, the X-T30 II has face- and eye-detection autofocus, which is a big help for travel portraits and street shots . It also includes Fujifilm’s renowned film simulations .

When you buy into the Fujifilm system, you’ll gain access to dozens of great travel photography lenses ; in fact, the hard part is actually deciding which is right for you! My personal go-to lens for travel photography is the XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 lens . While the X-T30 II doesn’t include in-body image stabilization, the technology is included in several of Fujifilm’s best travel lenses, so as long as you choose your lenses carefully, you won’t have problems handholding indoors or at night.

The X-T30 II offers a uniquely tactile shooting experience thanks to a shutter speed and exposure compensation dial, so if you’re a fan of film-camera ergonomics, this camera will make you feel especially at home. It offers surprisingly great value, too; at the time of writing, you’ll pay just $900 for the camera body (though you will need to buy a lens separately).

Excellent lens lineup from the affordable XC lenses to enthusiast and professional XF lenses
Stunning image quality with a range of JPEG film simulations
Many amazing features
Not as robust as Fujifilm’s higher-end models

4. Sony RX100 VII

Sony keeps improving the RX100 line, and the RX100 VII is its best model yet. It may have a smaller sensor than the Nikon Z fc featured above, but the RX100 VII is still a powerful performer. It boasts impressive autofocus, a flip-screen for vlogging and selfies, a mic socket, and a huge zoom range (equivalent to 24-200mm in full-frame terms).

The RX100 VII also borrows tech from Sony’s flagship models, which is why it can shoot up to 20 frames per second with no viewfinder blackout.

If you’re a watersports fan, there’s an added bonus: the RX100 has underwater housing available for surfing, diving, and snorkeling photos. At around $1300 USD, the RX100 VII is on the pricier side, but for serious travel photographers, it’s an excellent choice.

Impressive autofocus
Handy zoom range
Up to 20 frames-per-second shooting
Expensive for a compact camera
Smaller 1-inch sensor

5. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Olympus may not be the world’s most popular camera brand, but that’s okay – especially if the company continues to develop outstanding models like the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV .

In many ways, the E-M10 Mark IV is an ideal travel photography camera. It offers amazing image quality – thanks to a 20 MP Four-Thirds sensor – yet it’s remarkably compact, so you can literally slip it in your pocket or handbag while traveling and only pull it out as needed. And the lenses are designed with portability in mind, too; a perfect choice for a lightweight setup is the 14-42mm EZ lens , though if you want more range, take a look at the 14-150mm .

Other features include a tilting 3-inch screen (so you can capture low-angle shots as desired), a 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder (for a DSLR-like shooting experience), and in-body image stabilization (so you can work handheld even in low-light travel scenarios). Plus, the price is incredible; you can grab the E-M10 Mark IV for just $700, and if you want to add a capable kit lens, you’ll pay just $799. How’s that for a bargain travel camera?

Compact and light
Excellent image quality
Good range of lenses
Smaller sensor
Lower-resolution EVF

6. Sony a7 IV

If you’re an advanced travel photographer in need of a do-everything camera, consider the Sony a7 IV , a full-frame, pro-level model that combines incredible autofocusing, beautiful image quality, and capable video into one reasonably priced package.

The a7 IV isn’t designed specifically for travel, so while it’s not big , it’s not especially compact, either. But you can comfortably travel with it in a backpack or even around your neck, and for serious shooters, the bevy of top-notch features will make up for the extra bulk.

The a7 IV’s incredible sensor and in-body image stabilization allow you to capture sharp handheld photos indoors (e.g., at museums and churches) and at night. And thanks to the 3.68M-dot electronic viewfinder, you can expect a lifelike shooting experience (along with other cool perks like exposure simulation), while the fully articulating screen makes it easy to create unique low- and high-angle shots of popular landmarks. Finally, the 4K/60p recording capabilities make the camera a top option for hybrid shooters; you can vlog, shoot video, and capture beautiful images all on the same day.

Astonishingly good image quality
Great video features
Fully articulating screen
Beautiful EVF
Pricey compared to other models on this list
Larger than other options

7. Nikon D5600

This next model needs no introduction; Nikon SLRs were favored by many famous travel photographers in the 1980s and beyond. The D5600 is the latest camera in Nikon’s midrange APS-C series, and it’s a perfect choice for beginners and enthusiast photographers alike.

The D5600 boasts Nikon’s excellent ergonomics, and the camera feels reassuringly comfortable in your hand, although it’s not as compact as other models on this list. Image quality is superb and low-light shooting is very impressive. Plus, you get a fully articulating screen (for selfies, vlogging, and tough compositions) along with excellent battery life.

These days, you can purchase a new D5600 for a great price, and it’s even cheaper if you buy it used – so if you’re in need of a reasonably high-level camera with a bargain price tag, it’s definitely a model worth checking out.

Good ergonomics and handling
Good battery life
No 4K video
On the larger side

8. Ricoh GR III

Ricoh has been producing super-compact GR cameras since the film heydays of the late 1990s. Those classic point-and-shoot GR models were known for their sharp wide-angle lenses and minimalist controls, and the digital line of GR cameras is no different.

The Ricoh GR III is a perfect mix of portability, optical quality, and impressive features. You get a fixed 28mm full-frame equivalent f/2.8 lens capable of producing great images, and four-stop shake reduction that ensures sharp files even in challenging light.

The GR III is often compared to another camera in this list, the Fujifilm X100V, but I’d encourage you to grab the Ricoh if you prefer a smaller camera with a wider angle of view.

Truly pocketable
Four-stop shake reduction
Fantastic wide-angle lens
The straight-out-of-camera JPEGs are not as good as Fujifilm’s
Battery life could be better

9. Sony a6700

It’s easy to see why Sony has grabbed a big share of the mirrorless camera market in recent years: The company produces an impressive range of cameras that appeal to professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The Sony a6700 may not have a full-frame sensor like some of its stablemates, but its compact body and impressive specs make it a strong candidate for the best enthusiast travel photography camera on the market. The a6700 features a 26-megapixel APS-C sensor, outstanding autofocusing for photography and video, and five-axis optical image stabilization. The 180-degree flip screen also makes the a6700 handy for vlogging and selfies.

And speaking of vlogging and video: While the a6700’s predecessor, the a6600, only offered 4K/30p, the a6700 now offers 4K/60p and can even capture 4K/120p video (albeit with a heavy crop) for those epic slow-motion travel clips!

I do think the layout and controls could be improved, but it’s one of the only drawbacks to an otherwise excellent product. Quick note: If you like the look of the a6700 but you’re on a tighter budget, also consider the a6400 . It may not be as impressive as the a6700, but it offers excellent value for money.

Small and light
Great lens lineup
Good image quality
Handling and ergonomics could be improved

10. Olympus Tough TG-6

Going on an extreme adventure? The Olympus Tough TG-6 could be the best travel camera for you. This compact point-and-shoot model can withstand a lot of punishment, thanks to its shockproof, dustproof, and crushproof body.

The TG-6 can also work in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius), and it’s fogproof, even during sudden changes in temperature. As I found out on a recent trip to Indonesia – where I was frequently moving from an air-conditioned hotel room to the outside heat and humidity – a foggy camera can be a real inconvenience.

For snorkeling and diving fans, the Tough TG-6 will love being underwater almost as much as you. It’s waterproof up to 49 ft (15 m), and it boasts several nifty underwater modes, including a microscope mode that can focus on objects 0.39 in (1 cm) away.

Super tough
Only 12 megapixels
More suited to adventurers than enthusiast photographers

11. Fujifilm X100V

I’m a huge fan of the Fujifilm X100 series cameras (I’ve owned three of the five models released over the last decade). In fact, many photographers loyal to other brands buy an X100-series camera as their “take-everywhere” body.

The X100V is small and light, yet it boasts an incredible 35mm f/2 fixed lens. Other useful features include its leaf shutter (good for photographing in quieter places like museums and churches ) as well as a built-in neutral density filter (perfect for beautiful long-exposure landscapes and wide-aperture shots in bright light). And of course, you get a range of stunning JPEG film simulations that are ready to go as soon as you turn on the camera.

While the entire X100 series is great, note that the latest model, the X100V, does have an important improvement over its predecessors: it’s weather-resistant. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who shoot in sand, rain, snow, and more.

Excellent lens
Built-in ND filter
Fujifilm JPEGs
Weather-resistant
No in-body image stabilization
More expensive than its predecessors

12. Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III

The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III is the third iteration of a popular point-and-shoot series from Canon. It’s sleek, it’s stylish, and it almost looks like a mini DSLR.

Many compact cameras have a tiny sensor – one inch or smaller – but the G1 X Mark III is an exception; it boasts an impressive APS-C sensor, which is one of the biggest sensors offered in such a portable camera. It also features a handy zoom range of 24-72mm and an optical stabilizer for shooting in low light, so you’ll be ready to handle any travel photo scenario you encounter.

The G1 X Mark III is easy to use and produces images with high clarity and outstanding colors. The only downside is the price tag: At around $1000 USD, it may be on the high end for some enthusiast photographers, but for intermediate shooters, it’s certainly worth the extra cash.

Large APS-C sensor
Compact size
Articulating screen
Premium price

What is the best camera for travel photography?

Choosing the perfect travel photography camera is a difficult task, one that depends on many factors. Before you hit that “Buy” button, try to determine what you value most, then evaluate the different cameras I’ve discussed based on those criteria.

So what is the best camera for travel photography? Only you can answer that question! Read my list carefully, think about what matters to you – and, if you’re still struggling, go to a camera shop, where you can talk to the staff and hold each camera in your hands.

Then, when you’re ready, grab a camera and hit the road!

Now over to you:

What travel photography camera do you plan to buy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The 12 Best Cameras for Travel Photography in 2024

The Best Travel Cameras for Every Type of Trip

Maybe you’ve got a dream trip booked, or maybe you’re still dreaming about where to go next. Either way, one thing’s for sure: When the time comes to pack your bags, you’ll want to have the right camera in tow to capture every glorious on-the-road-again moment. But with technology constantly evolving—“Smaller digital cameras have improved dramatically from several years ago,” says New York City-based photographer David Engelhardt—and countless options and features to consider, finding your perfect travel camera for vacation or work can feel overwhelming.

To help narrow the field, we turned to the pros: Engelhardt, former White House photographer Pete Souza , U.K.-based lifestyle photographer Lucy Laucht , and sharpshooters on our own photo team. From discreet, compact models to retro-cool options worthy of being displayed on your bookshelf, here are 15 travel cameras worth taking on the road.

This gallery was last published in November 2019. It has been updated with new information.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Image may contain Electronics and Camera

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VII

Best for: Traveling light

The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VII is proof that good things come in small packages. Neil Leifer, whose storied, 50-plus-year career has included shooting more than 200 covers for Sports Illustrated and Time and creating iconic images of Mohammed Ali (his 18th book, Neil Leifer. Boxing. 60 Years of Fights and Fighters , was released earlier this year), says it’s his go-to for personal use. Leifer, an ambassador for the brand through its Sony Artisans of Imagery program, says it’s also often the only one he takes on his travels with Crystal Cruises , for whom he’s a guest speaker. “It looks like a toy, but it has a 24-200mm Zeiss lens, and it’s sharp as a tack,” he says.

Image may contain Electronics Camera and Digital Camera

Best for: Street photography

Whether he’s shooting at home or on the road, Steve McCurry loves the Leica SL2. McCurry, the prolific photographer whose iconic “Afghan Girl” image appeared on National Geographic ’s June 1985 cover, says the SL2’s lenses are the best he’s ever used, and that the camera “is incredibly durable.” Video shooters will appreciate the camera’s super-crisp 5K and 4K recording capabilities, and users who are photographing in rugged settings—dusty, windswept deserts; choppy waters prone to spewing sea spray—will be glad for its weather sealing, which keeps out the elements. Of the SL2, McCurry, who founded the nonprofit ImagineAsia in 2004, adds, “The functionality is very well thought out and sensible.”

Canon EOS R

Best for: Low-angle wildlife photography

“As a wildlife photographer, I am always looking for new angles and fresh perspectives,” says Adam Bannister , resident photographer at Kenya’s Angama Mara and manager of the property’s Angama Photographic Studio . His pick for capturing them: the Canon EOS R for its tilt screen—“It allows me to hold the camera away from my face and still see what I am shooting,” he says—and the ability to activate its silent shutter. “Both [features] will help you to be less noticeable. The result: more candid, less intrusive photographs,” Bannister says. For travelers with a particular interest in wildlife, Bannister also suggests the Canon EOS R5 for its built-in animal eye tracking focus, “which would make this style of photography that much better and [involve] less guess work,” he says.

Fujifilm X100V

Best for: Aesthetes

With its clean edges, satin coating, and top and bottom aluminum plates, the Fujifilm X100V gets big style points. But there’s a lot more to this camera than its retro good looks. The X100V’s new, enhanced 23mm F2.0 lens offers better resolution and lower distortion than previous versions, and its optional weather-resistant adapter ring and protection filter (a first for the X100 series) will keep it safe in wild weather. It also has built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, shoots 4K video, and has a tilting electronic viewfinder, which Engelhardt says “can be handy when composing images from above, or when you’re shooting from the hip and trying to be stealthy.”

Best for: Landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits

“My Leica M10 paired with a 35mm lens is my most trusted travel companion,” says Laucht . “Small, nimble, and film camera-like in appearance, it’s perfect for spontaneous street photography and portraits.” Faster than previous Leica M-System cameras and the slimmest of the brand’s digital M-Camera models, the handsome and compact M10 has an extended ISO range (used to adjust exposure) of 100 to 50,000 that users can adjust via a new setting dial on the top plate, even when the camera’s turned off. A new sensor developed specifically for the M10 means improved color rendition, sharpness, and resolution, too. “I’m yet to find a camera that so perfectly captures the colors and the essence of a moment like the M10 does,” Laucht says.

DJI Mavic 2 Pro

Best for: Aerial photography and video

Sam Muchai , a Nairobi-based photographer and owner of Aerial Affairs , a company that specializes in commercial aerial photography, shoots stills and video from above with the DJI Mavic 2 Pro. “It produces very high-quality images and 4K video, and yet it comes in such a travel-friendly package,” he says of his go-to drone . Bannister also favors the DJI Mavic 2 Pro for shooting from the sky. His tip: “Get a filter set, especially if you want to film with the drone. You need to have really slow shutter speeds, and this means extra light is pushed onto the sensor. By buying a good set of filters for your drone, you can increase the length of time you can film in a day.”

GoPro Hero 9

Best for: Action and adventure sports

When it comes to capturing action in the moment, Muchai grabs his GoPro Hero 9. “I always have one when I travel,” he says. “It's super durable and it's waterproof,” he adds, which makes it great for shooting water sports, off-road adventures, and other outdoor activities. The Hero 9’s in-camera horizon-leveling technology keeps footage stable and straight, and it has a 30 percent longer battery life than previous models. Ideal for users whose digits are busy gripping handlebars, rip cords, or ski poles, the Hero 9 responds to 14 different voice commands (”GoPro, turn on,” “GoPro, take a picture”) in English, French, Spanish, and eight other languages.

Best for: Fuss-free, high-quality photography

“For someone that does not like to stick out while traveling or fuss with a bag of lenses in a range of conditions—climbing sand dunes, traversing jungles, getting caught in a downpour—this camera is compact, unassuming, and weatherproof, with incredible quality to boot,” says Los Angeles-based photographer Marianna Jamadi of the Leica Q2. “Its mirrorless body is stealthy in terms of the shutter release, making scenarios like street shooting seamless for those that don't want to draw attention to themselves.” One feature that might give some potential buyers pause is the 28mm fixed lens, but for Jamadi, it’s a plus. “Instead of switching or deciding on what lens to use, the only way to change focal length is by moving your position,” she says. “This allows you to become fully immersed in the experience of the destination or subject you are photographing. Isn’t this what traveling is all about?”

Best for: Film

The Leica M-A comes recommended by architecture photographer Adrian Gaut , who loves it for the wide range of lenses that can be attached, stylish body, and nods to a classic period in photography. Don’t let the fact that it's a film camera without a battery send you running for the hills. Instead, look at it as a chance to spend more time focusing in the moment and thinking about each exposure—and to enjoy the post-trip magic of getting film back from the lab, surprises, errors, and all.

Ricoh GR III

Best for: A compact camera

For the purists, Ricoh produces a top-of-the-line compact camera. The third and latest in its popular GR line-up, the GR III, has an improved and even quicker auto-focus, and enhanced image stabilization. Its touch sensitive screen makes reviewing your shots quick and intuitive, and the new lens and image processor reproduces truer colors than the brand has been able to before.

Fujifilm X‑Pro3

Best for: Inclement weather

This is Souza’s favorite walk-about camera. It's a lightweight, unobtrusive, quiet option that produces great digital files. Souza, who photographed President Ronald Reagan and President 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).”

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6

Best for: Instant print-outs

Versions of the instant camera—this one is by Fujifilm—are back in a big way. This Instax ups the ante, with high image quality and a quick printing mechanism. A tip: Instant cameras tend to overexpose your picture, making it too bright, so take advantage of this one's exposure compensation feature to darken your image slightly. Whatever you do, just don’t shake the printed photo. It doesn’t help it develop faster and can lead to cracked film.

Olympus Tough TG-6

Best for: Beach or snorkeling trips

Pocket-friendly, light, and compact, this one is a stellar point-and-shoot option and great for underwater photography (it's waterproof up to 100 feet). If you tend to be rough on your cameras, here's some good news: The TG-6's design is shockproof, too. With plenty of auto options, this camera is for the traveler who wants to keep it simple, without sacrificing quality.

Best for: Safaris

Condé Nast Traveler contributing photographer Brian Finke loves the Nikon D850 for capturing personal travel and family moments. It features an easy-to-use 3.2-inch LCD touchscreen and shoots in 4K video. It’s also a great choice for animal lovers: Not only does its silent feature allow for up-close shooting near sound-sensitive animals, it also has one of the fastest shutter speeds on this list, so you can capture any sudden movement.

Ricoh Theta Z1 360 Camera

Best for: 360-degree shots

And now for something completely different: a 360-degree camera. Just press the central button on the super-light device once, without worrying about settings, and the Ricoh will take a shot in every direction. Besides 360-degree still photos, the camera also captures 360-degree videos and supports live-streaming. Be sure to grab a VR headset so you can enjoy your images in their full glory—it's an overdue modern alternative to the post-vacation family and friends slideshow presentation.

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The 10 Best Travel Cameras to Capture All Your Adventures

The top models you should pack in your suitcase, from dslrs to drones., kristin tablang, kristin tablang's most recent stories.

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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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10 Best Travel Cameras in 2024 (Compact & Versatile Options)

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A great travel camera is not necessarily the one you always use at home. Travel has particular demands. And let’s be honest, many of us rely on our phones when we hit the tourist trail. But if you want to up your travel photography game, we have some suggestions.

The Canon EOS ROP is our top pick. It’s a portable camera that will serve you well as your daily device. But for travel, it has great autofocus (AF), superior low-light performance, and 4K video.

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What Are the Best Travel Cameras?

Before we look at our recommendations in detail, here’s a summary of all the cameras in this review.

Affordable full-frame mirrorless
Lightweight and easy to handle
Macro stacking and time-lapse
Convenient Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Nice 4K video performance
26 MP sensor for good noise reduction and fast readout
Sharp JPEGs with low noise
15 quality film simulations
Hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder
Tilting touchscreen
Excellent 4K Ultra HD video
Very beginner-friendly
Excellent image quality
Built-in image stabilization for video and low light
Endless list of compatible lenses
Excellent 4K video features

Decent APS-C BSI-CMOS sensor
A great frame rate of 15 fps
6.5 stops of image stabilization
4K video (DCI or Ultra HD) up to 60 fps
A fully articulating rear touchscreen
12 Film Simulation modes

Excellent 32.5 MP APS-C sensor
Dual Pixel AF with eye detection
Decent frame rate of 10 fps
Good, 1,300-shot battery life
Live View and 4K/30p Ultra HD video

A more affordable mirrorless option
Nice to handle and use
Relatively lightweight and not too bulky
Solid 4K video performance

Tiny, portable full frame body
Excellent autofocus system
Good battery life
Weatherproof magnesium alloy body
Option of bundling a lightweight 28-60 mm zoom lens kit

Excellent value
Compact body for a DSLR
Insanely good battery life
Fully articulating screen is helpful for capturing video
Solid 4K video quality

Customizable face-detection autofocus
Intelligent 5-axis image stabilization uses lens data for super-sharp images
Programmed focus tracking via touchscreen
Customizable on-screen buttons
Excellent 4K video quality

Pocket-sized point-and-shoot
High-quality Zeiss zoom lens with 8x zoom
Advanced autofocus system with subject tracking
Excellent 4K video performance
Microphone jack for audio recording

10 Best Travel Cameras

1. canon eos rp.

The Canon EOS RP is a great mirrorless camera for travel photography because of its versatility. The 26 MP resolution ensures you get quality images in every situation. And it is suitable for action photography thanks to its high-speed continuous shooting.

It also has exceptional low-light performance. It goes down to -5 EV ( exposure value ) and has a whole-sensor AF.

The Dual Pixel autofocus and the updated firmware ensure fast and accurate focusing. And the camera offers eye-detection AF, a useful tool for taking portrait photos.

Due to its small size is perfect for street photographers and is a good vlogging camera . The tilting LCD screen also makes it ideal for 4K videos.

This is a great camera that will serve you well in most circumstances. It’s no surprise it leads the market in lower-end mirrorless cameras . And the EOS RP is ideal for travel photography.

2. Fujifilm X100V

The Fujifilm X100V is a compact mirrorless camera and one of the best choices for travel photography. The 26 MP APS-C sensor gives you high-resolution images. And the autofocus performance is outstanding, working well even in low-light situations.

The advanced hybrid viewfinder gives the perks of both optical and electronic viewfinders. And the camera can shoot at 11 fps (frames per second).

There is a tiltable touchscreen for those looking for more flexibility. The 4K/30p video recording is also useful to those who want to record their travels on video and still images.

Looks aren’t everything. But there’s a great old-school vibe to the appearance of the Fujifilm X100V . It will make your travels feel a little bit more stylish.

3. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV is a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera. It is perfect for enthusiasts and beginners to take with them to their favorite far-flung places. Its biggest strength lies in its versatility.

You can take 50 MP ultra-high-resolution images. The five-axis in-camera image stabilization ensures sharp pictures even in low light. And the camera offers 121 cross-type autofocus points and 4K video shooting.

You can also use the Live Composite Mode if you do long-exposure photography. And the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are two extras that make this camera even more appealing.

And like the Fujifilm cameras, this Olympus has striking good looks. It has proper, chunky control knobs with knurled edges. You might want to take a second camera to take pictures of this one!

4. Fujifilm X-T4

This Fujifilm X-T4 has some great features for travel photography. The autofocus has 425 AF points. It uses both phase and contrast detection helps to catch those blink-and-you-miss-it moments. As does the 15 fps continuous shooting capability.

It has a fully articulating touchscreen and up to 6.5 stops of image stabilization. These help you snap the low-light moments with sharpness and clarity.

And if recording video is your thing, you get 4K. Plus, there are some appealing Film Simulation modes to add some panache to your vacation videos. The X-T4 is another classic-looking camera conjuring images of bygone travels and adventure.

5. Canon EOS 90D

Dual Pixel autofocus and 10 fps are two features that make the Canon EOS 90D a good pick for travel photography. Undoubtedly, a full frame DSLR can be a bit chunky for inconspicuous snapping. So its more compact form is a bonus.

The autofocus system is outstanding for the price range. It also includes eye-detection AF, which is especially useful for catching those street scenes with people.

The 4K video shooting and the Full HD/120p are good enough for budding videographers. There is also built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, ensuring compatibility and efficient workflow.

And the EOS 90D is a Canon EF-S-mount camera. So there are plenty of Canon lenses for you to choose from.

6. Nikon Z50

The Nikon Z50 is a great size for travel. And it packs in a decent 20.7 MP APS-C sensor. The autofocus is especially impressive. And its 209 AF points work quickly and effectively.

The electronic shutter is silent and can power at 11 fps when needed. The LCD screen folds down for those tourist hotspot selfies and must-have Instagrams. And the built-in flash is great for when the light is too low.

Video recording is possible at 4K with stereo sound. And that fold-down screen is great if you’re vlogging your travel journal.

The Nikon Z-mount lenses available increase in number every year. So you’ll be spoiled for choice there are well.

7. Sony Alpha 7C

You can’t beat this Sony a7C if you want a pocketable camera with a full frame sensor. It almost defies belief that this light, compact device has a 24.2 MP full frame chip. But it does.

It also has a very effective AF system with 693 AF points that cover most of the frame. And it is quick and reliable, even in low light.

It shows almost no noise up to 25,600 ISO. And when the light is poor, the sensor-shift in-body image stabilization is there to help you out.

There’s no 4K video, but it has a maximum video resolution of 1080p. This is augmented by stereo sound. And external audio sockets allow you to improve the sound even further.

The a7C is the smallest and lightest full frame camera available. And it is ideally suited for your travel photography.

8. Canon EOS Rebel SL3

The battery life of the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is one of the most attractive features for the traveler. Running out of power or carrying a million batteries is a modern curse. So to have a camera that doesn’t die by lunchtime is a real boon.

Its 24 MP sensor provides clear, sharp, high-contrast images in every setting. And Dual Pixel autofocus helps to keep things sharp and at speed. In Live View mode , there are 143 focus points, which is a high number for a mid-range crop sensor camera.

The Rebel SL3 includes 4K video capabilities and impressive low-light performance. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi improve compatibility with other devices for a smooth workflow. And, of course, lenses are easy to find for the Canon EF-S-mount.

9. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 ‘s strongest feature is its built-in five-axis image stabilization. It works both for video and still images. And it allows you to take impressive low-light images without camera shake .

The tiltable touchscreen is useful for taking shots from a different perspective. And its depth-from-defocus AF technology calculates the distance by using known data about the lens characteristics.

One very video-friendly feature is programmable focus tracking . If you want the focus to shift from one subject to another during a shot, use the touchscreen to assign those spots. It adds a touch of professionalism to your videos, which it takes in 4K as well.

The Lumix DMC-GX85 is a very handy, flexible, and high-performing camera for your travels.

10. Sony Cybershot RX100 VII

The Sony Cybershot RX100 VII is a compact camera that’s handy for traveling. But it can often feel a little cramped against the face. This camera gets around the problem by using a pop-up viewfinder. It’s an effective, perhaps inelegant, solution.

The 20 MP sensor is not the biggest. But it delivers great image quality with Sony’s technology and a Zeiss 24-200mm f/2.8-4.5 zoom lens . And the 20 fps continuous shooting is also something that makes this camera worth considering.

The high-speed autofocus has 357 focus points—a high number for a compact camera . It covers the whole frame, making accurate focusing easier. Artificial-intelligent-based object tracking is also available for humans and animals.

High image quality, 4K video, time-lapse shooting , and built-in image stabilization give this camera outstanding value. It is an affordable yet professional option for those looking for a great budget travel camera .

Conclusion: Best Travel Cameras

As you can see, the range of cameras available is pretty impressive. You have to literally weigh up portability and features, flexibility, and strengths. The answer you come up with will be different according to your needs.

Our top pick, the Canon EOS RP , won’t disappoint you. It’s a portable yet versatile travel camera. And it has enough features to ensure that your adventures are well documented. Check out our Next Stop: Travel Photography e-book to take your photography to the next level!

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Tech Essentials

The 13 Best Compact Cameras of 2024

These are the top point-and-shoot options for epic travel photography.

In This Article

Our Top Picks
Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust T + L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

What’s the best way to relive your favorite travel experiences over and over again? By taking epic photos that you can upload to social media or transform into a coffee table photo book, of course. Investing in a proper camera with a high-quality sensor and a decent number of megapixels will yield better, more printable results than your phone camera. But that doesn’t mean you need to lug a full-size DSLR and several interchangeable lenses around with you. You can get amazing results with a compact, or point-and-shoot, camera.

B&H Senior Technologist Mark Steinberg defines a compact camera as one that is “pocketable, with a minimum number of protrusions, that can be used one-handed.” They’re a great option for anyone who prioritizes easy portability or casual photographers who want good results without a steep learning curve. There are several different kinds of compact cameras, from the budget-friendly to the professional quality, and from digital to film and instant. We’ve researched them all to find the best options across several different categories.

Best Overall

Sony cyber-shot dsc-rx100 vii digital camera.

It has a high-quality sensor, near-instant autofocus, and a lens that fulfills both wide-angle and telephoto functions.

It’s an expensive option for occasional use only.

Chosen by Mark Steinberg as the best overall compact camera, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII is the seventh generation of a series that has been raising the bar for compacts since its inception. It’s simple to use for novice photographers, with enough manual settings to allow for experimentation and growth. The 1-inch Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor is a major highlight, allowing for high sensitivity with a maximum resolution of 20.1 megapixels. With 8x optical zoom and 24–200mm equivalence, the ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens gives you the freedom to switch between wide angle and telephoto photography for everything from landscapes to wildlife.

Whatever your subject, the 0.02-second hybrid autofocus ensures sharp images in both still and video mode. You can shoot single, continuous, burst, and self-timer images and set an upper or lower limit for your ISO up to a maximum of 12800 for impressive low-light results. If film is your passion, you’ll love the camera’s 20 frames-per-second, 4K video for its smooth movement and cinema-quality resolution. When it comes to viewing your footage, framing (and taking) your shot, or scrolling through the menu, use the 180-degree-flip LCD touchscreen. In high-glare conditions, you can also revert to the pop-up electronic viewfinder.

The RX100 VII offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for instant uploads to social media.

Best Image Quality

Ricoh gr iiix digital camera.

This camera uses advanced lens and sensor technology to deliver undistorted, true-color images with a high level of sharpness across the entire frame.

If video is a priority, bear in mind that the GR IIIx shoots Full HD rather than 4K.

Suitable for all experience levels, the Ricoh GR IIIx Digital Camera was designed with the express purpose of providing superior image quality. The 26.1mm GR lens offers a 40mm angle of view in the 35mm format that’s meant to mirror your natural field of view. It also uses premium technology to eliminate distortion, render colors accurately, and create amazingly sharp images. This is complemented by the camera’s high-resolution CMOS image sensor, which captures HD detail suitable for large-scale prints with up to 24.2 megapixels.

Other highlights include the camera’s impressive shake reduction technology and its fast, precise hybrid autofocus with eight focus modes to choose from including one that automatically detects the eyes and faces for perfect portraits. We love that you can shoot in macro, while an interval composite shooting mode allows you to capture star trail images (you’ll need to buy a tripod separately.) These are the unique images that set your travel shots apart. The camera offers Full HD video, a LCD touch screen with instantly adjustable brightness, and 2GB of built-in memory — a lifesaver when your memory card malfunctions at the crucial moment.

Best Full-frame Compact

Sony cyber-shot rx1r ii digital camera.

This camera packs the full-frame sensor of a professional DSLR into an unbelievably compact, travel-sized body.

You could buy a good DSLR body and lens for a similar price.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II is meant for professional photographers with a price tag and learning curve to match. The 35mm full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor is the largest available, offering more light, more information, better quality, and a greater dynamic range than the APS-C frame found in standard compact cameras. With 42.5 megapixels and the ability to shoot in uncompressed 14-bit RAW, this camera will produce pro-quality, large-scale prints with an astonishing amount of detail.

The ZEISS Sonnar T* 35mm f/2 lens is fixed with no optical zoom, making it best for wide-angle and close-up subjects (and especially, street photography). The large aperture allows you to work in low light and use an unusually shallow depth of field. And, if you’re familiar with terms like moiré and aliasing, you’ll appreciate the inclusion of the world’s first optical variable low-pass filter for reducing these kinds of distortion. Other perks include super-fast hybrid autofocus, Full HD video with the ability to capture slow-motion HD video, an electronic viewfinder, and an adjustable 3-inch LCD screen.

Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D Digital Camera

You can bring subjects 15 times closer without sacrificing image quality, thanks to its optical zoom.

It’s slightly heavier and bulkier than some of the other compact cameras on this list.

If you want to be able to photograph animals, birds, or any other subject from a distance without forking out thousands of dollars for a DSLR with a telephoto lens, the Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D is an excellent option. The Leica DC Vario-Elmar 24–360mm lens offers a 15x optical zoom — which brings subjects 15 times closer without any of the pixelation associated with digital zoom. Optical Image Stabilizer technology means your photos won’t suffer from blurry camera shake either.

The 1-inch MOS sensor with 20.1 megapixels results in bright, colorful images that lend themselves well to print. You can expand your photographic skills by playing around with traditional aperture and shutter priority modes, or use preset scene and filter modes for instantly different effects. We especially love the camera’s Post Focus feature, which varies the focal point while taking 30 photos per second so that you can go back afterwards and select the best one. In terms of video, shoot in 4K or use high-speed Full HD for instant 120 frames-per-second, slow-motion playback.

Best Splurge

Leica q3 digital camera.

This is a professional camera that pays equal attention to still images and video, delivering best-in-class results for both.

It’s not the best choice for those who want telephoto functionality.

The Leica Q3 is an ultra-exclusive option limited to one purchase per customer. And don’t be fooled by its compact size — coming in at just under $6,000, it’s a premium product for serious professionals. It boasts a full-frame BSI CMOS sensor for unparalleled photo and video quality. With a maximum aperture size of f/1.7 and a maximum ISO of 100000, it performs unbelievably well in low light conditions. The Summilux 28mm fixed lens includes an integrated macro mode, making the camera ideal for close-up work as well as wide-angle street photography.

There’s no optical zoom. However, Triple Resolution Technology with up to 60 megapixels means you can use the digital zoom without losing significant detail. You can also shoot in 36 or 18 megapixel mode to save space on your memory card. Video is equally versatile with multiple formats to choose from including 8K, 4K, ProRes, and Full HD. All of your work benefits from hybrid autofocus and subject tracking, while the Leica FOTOS app can be used for audiovisual content creation. Finally, you can frame shots using the 3-inch display or the OLED viewfinder.

Best for Videos and Vlogging

Canon powershot g7 x mark iii camera.

Designed to shoot high-quality video in vertical or horizontal formats, this camera offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and can live-stream direct to YouTube.

To realize full vlogging potential, you may need to purchase a tripod and remote control separately.

Looking for the best camera for filming quality reels? The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is designed especially for this purpose with 4K and Full HD video, the ability to shoot horizontally or vertically, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to social media, and the ability to live stream straight to YouTube. Whether you’re shooting video or still photos, the fact that you can tilt the LCD touch screen by 180 degrees makes it ideal for framing quality selfies.

The technology is impressive, too. We’re talking a 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC 8 image processor for exceptionally fast autofocusing, with facial recognition that puts you in the center no matter how much you move around. The 24–100mm lens is suitable for a versatile mix of wide-angle and short telephoto shots, while the f/1.8-2.8 aperture performs well in low light conditions. Finally, the Optical Image Stabilizer reduces camera shake for clear, crisp results. Adding other gadgets is easy. The camera has a 3.5mm microphone terminal and can be purchased as part of a video creator kit that includes a tripod grip and remote control.

Fujifilm X100VI Camera

This camera combines state-of-the-art technology with a vintage aesthetic and a full range of film simulation modes.

The lens is fixed, so any zoom comes with the compromise of digital cropping.

First off, the Fujifilm X100VI just looks cool, with a gorgeous silver-and-black or all-black aesthetic reminiscent of a vintage film camera. Beneath the retro exterior lies a cutting-edge X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor with a revolutionary image-processing algorithm for efficient light reception and amazing image resolution at any ISO sensitivity. Thanks to the fixed 23mm f/2 lens, you’ll also get 35mm equivalency in terms of low-light performance and the ability to achieve a shallow depth of field — for a much lower cost than a full-frame compact camera.

You can zoom digitally by 1.4x or 2x. The 425-point intelligent autofocus system is super fast, while built-in image stabilization reduces the appearance of camera shake by up to six f-stops. And when it comes to video, you can switch between 6.2K, 4K, and Full HD at will. Above all, we love that this camera includes 20 simulation modes inspired by iconic Fujifilm film types ranging from Eterna Bleach Bypass to Nostalgic Neg. You can even shoot using a Grain Effect that replicates the textured look of vintage film photography.

Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera

It’s an inexpensive and easy-to-use film camera for maximum fun.

There’s a limit to how much you can do with such a basic setup, so it may not be ideal as your primary travel camera.

Perhaps you feel nostalgic for the days of film, or perhaps you grew up in the digital era and want to experience photography as it used to be. Either way, the Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera is great for film novices, those wanting to stretch their abilities as a photographer, and those who just love the retro look of original film. It’s inexpensive in terms of initial layout and because the half-frame format gives you twice as many images per roll as you’d get from a full-frame camera.

Weighing in at just three and a half ounces, this pocket-sized camera is made for on-the-go convenience. It features a 22mm f/9.5 lens — so with no zoom and no autofocus, it’s best for wide-angle shots and back-to-basics experimentation that’s as fun as it is challenging. You can frame shots using the optical viewfinder and deploy the built-in flash in low light or at night. The camera is compatible with black-and-white and color film and requires one AAA battery to work. Choose yours in Black, Brown, Sand, or Sage.

The Details: 22mm lens | 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches | 3.5 ounces | Optical viewfinder

Best Instant

Fujifilm instax mini evo instant camera.

Not only can you print photos instantly, you can also save a digital version to your smartphone via the app.

You’ll need to recharge after approximately 100 photos.

Available with a retro black or brown leather effect, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Instant Camera lets you create 2 x 3-inch prints of your images in approximately 16 seconds. It features an autofocusing 28mm f/2 lens and uses automatic shutter speed and ISO for fool-proof results. Expressing your creativity is easy, with 10 lens effects (including Light Leak, Double Exposure, and Soft Focus) and 10 film effects from Vivid to Sepia. You can use these interchangeably for a total of 100 different possibilities.

Other features include a built-in flash, a self-timer, a selfie mirror, and a 3-inch LCD screen. What makes this instant camera different from the Polaroids of the past is the ability to use it in conjunction with the INSTAX app. This means being able to use your smartphone as a remote for releasing the camera shutter (handy for group shots and selfies) and being able to save a digital version of your instant prints complete with an INSTAX frame. From there, you can upload them to social media. You can even use Bluetooth to send pictures from your smartphone to the camera to print.

Best Durable

Ricoh pentax wg-90 digital camera.

Drop it, crush it, take it out in a sandstorm or underwater and this camera should still emerge in one piece.

If you’re looking for an underwater camera for scuba diving, scroll on — we’ve found ones with better depth ratings.

When it comes to durability, B&H’s Mark Steinberg recommends the Ricoh Pentax WG-90 above all others. It lives up to its armored appearance with some pretty impressive technical specs. It’s waterproof up to 46 feet underwater for up to two hours of continuous operation, making it ideal for surface water sports or snorkeling. It’s also shockproof against falls from five feet, crushproof against 220-pound-force weights, and dustproof. Heading somewhere cold? Unlike many of the cameras on this list, this one will still operate in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

Toughness aside, it’s also a great little camera from a photography perspective. The 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor offers high sensitivity and minimal noise, even when using the maximum ISO setting (6400.) A built-in ring light and flash help out in low-light situations, while the 28–140mm equivalent lens is suited to both wide-angle and short telephoto use with a 5x optical zoom. Choose from a range of shooting modes including Fish-Eye, Sports, and Handheld Night; or capture moving images with Full HD video.

Best for Action Sports

Gopro hero12 black.

This camera stands out for its Emmy Award-winning video stabilization, 177-degree field of view, and action-ready, rugged build.

With a super wide-angle lens and no zoom functionality, this is a specialist camera for POV filming and photography only.

GoPro’s reputation precedes it in the action sports category, and the latest Hero12 camera really is a thing of wonder. Film High Dynamic Range (HDR) video in 5.3K, 4K, 2.7K, or Full HD. Revel in the 177-degree field of view that shows more of your daredevil POV than ever before. And know that whether you’re jumping out of an airplane or racing at high speed down a mountain, the camera’s HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization ensures the footage is super smooth. Turning a full 360 degrees? Horizon Lock keeps the horizon level throughout.

You can film vertically for direct upload to social media and slow things down by up to eight times for an epic fast-action/slow-motion effect. Meanwhile, Bluetooth audio support allows you to connect headphones for sound recording and remote voice commands. The camera also takes 27-megapixel still photos. Or, you can grab 24.7 megapixel stills from your video. The GoPro 12 is waterproof to 33 feet, can run continuously for over two and a half hours on Full HD, and features a new Enduro battery especially for temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Waterproof

Sealife micro 3.0 digital underwater camera.

This camera dives as deep as you can and takes the stress out of O-ring maintenance with a permanently sealed body.

It’s very definitely geared towards underwater photography rather than as an all-rounder for topside travel shots.

Unlike the other waterproof cameras on this list, the SeaLife Micro 3.0 is designed with scuba divers in mind. It’s waterproof to 200 feet (exceeding recreational dive limits) and is permanently sealed making it suitable for even the most careless or inexperienced underwater photographer. Use the 100-degree wide-angle lens to get as close as possible to your subject for the best results. You can rely on the built-in underwater color correction to counteract the loss of red tones; or, for the more advanced, there’s a manual white balance option.

We love the large, f/2.8 aperture for its ability to make the most of limited ambient light. But if you tend to dive deep, the camera is also compatible with single or double after-market strobe sets. The camera delivers high-quality, 16-megapixel images in single or burst shooting mode and can also film 4K or Full HD video. And if you get all the way out to the dive site and realize you’ve left your memory card at home? No problem, the 64GB internal memory’s got your back. Finally, Piano Key controls make for easy menu navigation, even with dive gloves on.

Best Budget

Kodak pixpro az255 camera.

This is the ideal camera for beginners who want to learn, with automatic and manual settings at a very reasonable price point.

It requires two AA batteries.

If you’re just getting into photography and don’t want to make a major investment just yet, the Kodak Pixpro AZ255 offers plenty of functionality for roughly nine times less money than our overall winner. It uses a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor and is well suited to most kinds of photography with a wide-angle 24mm lens and a 25x optical zoom that brings you significantly closer to your subject without compromising image quality. You can also use the 4x digital zoom, although you should expect some pixelation.

Optical Image Stabilization helps eliminate blur, a continuous shooting mode ensures you never miss that action shot, and a built-in flash allows for nighttime shooting. And although the autofocus isn’t nearly as advanced as the more expensive models on this list, you’ll still benefit from subject tracking and face detection. Our favorite feature? The ability to keep things simple with 22 preset scene modes or to experiment with aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual settings. You’re not limited to still photos — this camera also shoots Full HD video.

Tips for Buying a Compact Camera

Understand the specs.

Before purchasing a compact camera, it’s important to understand some of the key specifications to look out for.

Sensor size: Sensor size has the greatest impact on photo quality and clarity, especially in low-light conditions. The larger the sensor, the better your image quality will be with greater sensitivity and less noise (or graininess). B&H Senior Technologist Mark Steinberg says that BSI, or Back Side Illumination, sensors are superior for their ability to increase light-gathering efficiency.

Megapixels: A megapixel equals one million pixels. Pixels are the tiny digital squares that make up your image and the more you have, the more detail you’ll capture. Most digital cameras offer sufficient megapixels for viewing on a screen. But the number of megapixels becomes important when zooming in on an image, cropping it, or printing it. Look for a higher number of megapixels if you plan on printing your photos, but bear in mind that more megapixels means larger files and less space on your memory card.

Zoom: If you plan on photographing wildlife or anything else that requires a zoom, it’s important to understand the difference between optical and digital zoom. Optical zoom brings the subject closer before capturing the image, with a lens that extends outwards from the camera body. This preserves photo quality. Digital zoom simply crops and resizes a smaller section of the original image, resulting in a blurrier, grainier picture.

LCD screen: The LCD screen is important because it allows you to view and compose your image before taking a picture. It also allows you to play your images back and scroll through the settings menu. Therefore, it’s important to choose a high-resolution LCD screen that displays colors accurately, even in bright light. It also needs to be big enough for you to see details clearly. Some point-and-shoots offer touchscreen capability for increased ease of use.

Viewfinder: Many compact cameras lack a traditional viewfinder (the hole you look through to view and frame your image). But if you plan on shooting in bright conditions, investing in a camera with a viewfinder is helpful for when glare impacts your ability to see the LCD screen clearly.

Video resolution: Video resolution refers to the number of horizontal and vertical pixels. The more you have, the more detailed your footage will be. Look for Full HD (1920 x 1090 pixels) as a minimum or 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) for premium, cinema-quality video.

Prioritize quality

It goes without saying that for the best results, you should spend as much as you can afford on the best quality camera possible. All of the specifications detailed above are worth considering, but if you focus on just one thing, Steinberg says that the most important factor in terms of image quality is the type and size of the sensor. If you plan on printing your vacation photos or using them to create a photo book or other memento, a reasonable number of megapixels (10 or more) is key. Finally, Steinberg points out that build quality and manufacturer support are also important.

Choose a camera based on your skill level and goals

Having said that, there’s no point in spending a fortune on a high-end compact camera with advanced specifications if all you really want is a simple way of capturing fun vacation snaps for social media. Beginners should prioritize cameras that are intuitive and simple to use. If your goals are more ambitious, Steinberg recommends looking for manual settings that will allow you to fine tune shutter speed, aperture size, and ISO for the best results.

It’s also worth considering where you’re traveling and your planned activities. If your camera will be exposed to dust, sand, humidity, or water, then looking for one that’s IP rated against dust and water ingress is crucial. When it comes to interpreting IP numbers, remember that the first number after the IP relates to dust while the second number relates to water. Only water ratings of seven or higher are fully waterproof. Scuba divers should be sure to check depth ratings.

In addition to considering all of the specifications listed above and how they relate to your requirements, Steinberg says it’s important to consider the ergonomics of the camera. Does it feel comfortable in your hands and next to your face? Are the controls and buttons easy for you to access and operate? Can you view the LCD screen clearly and does the menu navigation system make sense? You should also think about the ease of use. If you’re not sure, consider booking a free in-person or virtual appointment with a B&H expert to talk through different options.

Absolutely, and especially if you choose one with a decent number of megapixels. It’s generally accepted that in order for an image to be made into a high quality print, it needs to have 300 pixels per inch (300 PPI). The number of megapixels required to achieve this depends on how big you want your prints to be. For a standard 6 x 4 inch image, you’d need at least 2.2 megapixels. For a 5 x 7 inch image, you’d need at least 3.2 megapixels. It’s also worth remembering that good printing results are dependent on printer and paper quality too.

Before we tackle this question, it’s important to note that while compact cameras lack a mirror (and mirrorless cameras are more compact than DSLRs), mirrorless cameras are not the same as compact cameras for the purpose of this list. We’ve focused on point-and-shoot cameras for novice photographers and more advanced photographers who prioritize portability. Advantages of point-and-shoots over DSLRs include reduced size and weight, ease of use, and cost.

Mirrorless cameras were introduced in 2004 and have since evolved to compete with DSLRs as the category of choice for intermediate and professional photographers. They have a larger sensor than a traditional point-and-shoot, offering superior image quality. They’re bulkier, cost a lot more, and come with interchangeable lenses. The key difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras is that mirrorless cameras let light hit the sensor directly whereas DSLRs use a mirror to reflect light onto the sensor.

This difference makes mirrorless cameras quicker and quieter — key advantages for fast-action and wildlife photography. High-end mirrorless cameras can also offer superior autofocus and better performance in low light conditions. DSLRs still hold the edge in terms of viewfinder accuracy, battery life, and a greater range of compatible lenses.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear for more than a decade. She’s also a professional photographer who has sold images to many publications including Travel + Leisure. Although she typically shoots with her trusty Nikon DSLR, she has often used compact cameras especially for underwater photography. For this article, she conducted hours of online research and consulted the opinion of Mark Steinberg , a B&H Senior Technologist.

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Our Expert Guide to the BEST Travel Cameras in 2024

Last Updated: December 13, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Best Camera for Travel in 2024 (Every Budget and Type)

Table of Contents

Are you ready to take your photography and travel adventures to the next level? If so, then it’s time to invest in a dedicated travel camera.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about travel cameras.

I’ll break it down into categories. I’m doing it like this because there are so many factors to consider (like budget, size, preference of mirrorless over DSLRs, etc .) that it’s difficult to give just one answer.

But if I had to give just one answer, it would be the Canon EOS R5 , as that’s what I currently use, and I love it!

But, don’t worry, I’ve got your back. We’ll look at all the options to cover your specific needs.

So make sure you read on until the end (or jump to a specific section) for a comprehensive overview of the best travel cameras currently on the market!

Key Highlights

I recommend mirrorless cameras over DSLRs and compacts.

The Canon EOS R5 is my favourite camera for travel.

Ultimately you can get good photos with most modern travel cameras. Consider budget, travel style and photography experience level first. Choose a camera based on those things (read on, I’ll help with that!).
Which brand you choose doesn’t matter. Buying the camera that’s right for you and improving your photography skills if far more important than the camera you use.

Ultimately you can get good photos with most modern travel cameras, consider budget, travel style and photography experience level first. Choose a camera based on those things (read on, I’ll help with that!).

Which brand you choose doesn’t matter, buying the camera that’s right for you and improving your photography skills if far more important than the camera you use.

Top Three Travel Cameras

#1 Editor’s Choice – Canon EOS R5

The Canon EOS R5 is my favorite camera for travel photography. It’s an excellent all-rounder and great value for money.

#2 Editor’s Choice – Sony RX100 VII

The Sony RX100 VII has it all in one compact package. You get a high-quality camera with a versatile zoom range.

#3 Editor’s Choice – Sony A7S III

The Sony A7S III is the leading video-oriented mirrorless camera, perfect for videographers and acceptable for photos.

Canon EOS R5

#1 editor’s choice.

If you’re looking for a camera that will help you capture stunning photos and videos while on the go, then you should definitely consider the Canon EOS R5 . This powerful full frame mirrorless travel camera is packed with features that make it an ideal choice for travel photography, from its impressive 45-megapixel sensor to its 8K video capabilities.

Check out our full Canon EOS R5 travel photography review .

Best all-rounder (photos and videos)
Intuitive menu system
Exceptional image quality
Somewhat limited range of RF-mount lenses (but the range is expanding fast

The Canon EOS R5 is equipped with a 45-megapixel full-frame sensor, which performs excellently in all conditions. It also has an ISO range of 100-51,200 which allows you to shoot in low light scenarios without introducing digital noise.

It also boasts up to 20 fps with autofocus and up to 12 fps with manual focus making it perfect for capturing action shots or wildlife photography.

When it comes to video recording, the Canon EOS R5 can record up to 8K 30p footage which allows you to create cinematic videos with incredible detail and sharpness.

It also offers a range of useful features such as image stabilization, a 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, dual-pixel autofocus, and 3D tracking to give you more control over your footage and ensure that every shot looks its best.

Additionally, the R5 supports a variety of different media formats such as MP4 and MOV so you can easily share your videos online or store them for future use.

The Canon EOS R5 is designed for comfort too; it has a lightweight body and ergonomic design that makes it easy to carry around all day without feeling weighed down. It also features intuitive controls that make it easy to quickly adjust settings while shooting, letting you switch between modes or adjust exposure quickly so that you never miss out on the perfect shot.

Overall, the Canon EOS R5 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable travel photography mirrorless camera that can handle any situation.

A man holding a mirrorless camera on the road

Why choose a mirrorless travel camera?

First up, I always recommend mirrorless cameras when it comes to traveling. I’ve been over the reasons why already, but here’s a quick reminder.

Mirrorless cameras are quickly becoming the go-to choice for travel photography due to their lightweight and compact design.

They give you the chance to travel with a full frame camera in a compact body, a luxury DSLRs will never be able to afford you.

Not only do they offer excellent picture quality, but they also come with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity so you can instantly share your photos online.

Additionally, mirrorless cameras feature advanced autofocus systems which allow them to accurately track moving subjects even in dim lighting conditions, perfect for shooting wildlife or sports events while travelling!

Best of all, these features don’t come at the expense of size or weight, meaning you can take stunning images wherever you go without having to lug around bulky equipment!

Let’s take a look at some more benefits of mirrorless cameras for travel photography.

One of the most important features of any camera is its image clarity, and modern mirrorless cameras have it in spades. Mirrorless models offer excellent resolution, dynamic range , low noise levels and accurate colors, all without sacrificing portability or size.

Another advantage of using a mirrorless camera is its autofocus system.

Most modern mirrorless models feature advanced autofocus systems which use sophisticated algorithms to accurately track moving subjects even in dim lighting conditions.

Many mirrorless cameras also come equipped with face detection technology which ensures that faces remain sharp regardless of movement or changes in light conditions.

What to look for when buying a mirrorless travel camera?

When shopping for a mirrorless travel camera, it’s important to consider both the features and specifications of the camera.

Look at the resolution of the sensor, as this will determine how much detail you’re able to capture in your images. Additionally, check the ISO range, higher ISO ranges will give you better performance in low light scenarios and help reduce digital noise when shooting at high ISOs.

Also pay attention to the autofocus system, make sure that it’s fast and accurate enough for your needs.

Lastly, consider any special features such as image stabilization or weather sealing which can be very useful when travelling in harsher climates.

Best point-and-shoot compact camera for travel photography

Want more options? Check out our favorite point-and-shoot cameras for travel for a full run down of the latest and greatest in the compact camera world!

Sony RX100 VII

#2 editor’s choice.

As it stands today, my favorite compact point-and-shoot camera is the Sony RX100 VII . In my opinion, it’s the best compact camera currently on the market.

It boasts an impressive 20.1 megapixel 1” Exmor RS CMOS sensor as well as 315 autofocus points, allowing you to capture stunning photos with excellent detail, even in low-light conditions.

Very compact
Everything you need in one package
Huge built-in zoom range
Smaller sensor
Can’t change lenses
Expensive for a compact camera

The Sony RX100 VII is a powerful and versatile point-and-shoot camera that’s perfect for travel photography.

The lens features a maximum aperture of f/2.8-4.5 which means that you can achieve beautiful background blur without compromising on sharpness or contrast. Its fixed lens offers a zoom range of 24-200mm which is extremely versatile and will allow you to capture all manner of subjects.

In terms of design, the Sony RX100 VII has an ergonomic yet compact form factor that makes it a breeze to carry around when travelling.

With its lightweight construction and pocketable size it’s easy to slip this camera into any bag or pocket making it ideal for spontaneous shoots when out exploring.

As mentioned before, this camera comes equipped with a wide variety of features for capturing great photos on the go such as eye AF and touch focus capabilities, scene recognition auto focus (AF) technology, 4K video recording at 30fps and up to 960fps super slow motion videos, as well as other handy functions like interval shooting and time-lapse recording.

As if all this weren’t enough, the Sony RX100 VII also includes Wi-Fi connectivity so you can quickly transfer your photos and videos onto your laptop or smartphone for easy sharing online with friends and family back home.

You need look no further than the Sony RX100 VII if you’re in search of a powerful yet compact camera ideal for travel photography.

This amazing fixed lens camera offers impressive features, spectacular clarity and a wide focal range from its zoom lens. All in all, in my opinion, the Sony RX100 VII is the best compact camera currently on the market.

Best 4K video camera for travel

Sony a7s iii, #3 editor’s choice.

The Sony A7S III is a powerful and feature-rich camera that is ideal for taking 4K video while travelling.

The A7S III features a full-frame 12.1 megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor which performs excellently even in poor light, making it suitable for capturing night scenes or capturing details in shadows.

The price and the fact that this cameras is mainly aimed at video shooters is what has stopped me from putting it higher up the list.

One of the best mirrorless cameras for video
Huge range of A-mount lenses
Has Sony’s intuitive, user-friendly menu system
Not the best choice for photos
Low megapixel count
Updated A7S IV expected soon

It also offers an ISO range of 80-102400 which allows you to increase sensitivity in order to capture more detail when needed.

The Sony A7S III can record 4K videos at up to 120p and Full HD videos at up to 240 fps, making it great for capturing slow motion footage while travelling.

It features 10-bit recording to capture more vibrant colors and also supports HDR (HLG/PQ) recording modes as well as S-Log profiles for greater color depth and dynamic range when post processing your footage.

Image stabilization is another important feature when shooting handheld or from moving vehicles while travelling and the Sony A7S III has 5-axis SteadyShot IBIS which helps reduce blur caused by camera shake.

The A7S III has a fast hybrid autofocus system with 693 phase detect points which makes it easy to lock onto subjects quickly and accurately regardless of the environment you are shooting in.

When it comes to sharing images online, the Sony A7S III has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity so that you can easily upload your photos or videos straight away without needing any cables or additional hardware.

There’s also an HDMI port so that you can connect external monitors if needed for better viewing while shooting on location!

The Sony A7S III is an ideal choice for adventurous shutterbugs looking to capture beautiful, 4K videos.

Even in dimly lit or fast-paced situations like sports photography, the 10 bit recording and 5-axis image stabilization deliver top-notch performance and stunning imagery.

With its swift autofocus capability and Wi-Fi capacity, you’ll be able to take your travel filmmaking experiences beyond what you could’ve ever imagined.

Best travel camera for photography beginners

Check out this article about the best cameras for travel photography beginners if you want a full rundown of the best options for those who are new to the game!

An affordable entry level model

The Sony A6600 is an excellent choice for beginner photographers looking to take their travel photography to the next level. The camera features a 24.2 megapixel APS-C image sensor and a BIONZ X image processor, which combine to deliver high-quality images with minimal noise.

Very compact body
Lots of compact lens options
Excellent value for money
Not full-frame

The A6600 has an ISO range of 100-32000 and can shoot up to 11fps as well as record 4K video at 30fps, making it an ideal camera for capturing fast action sequences or stunning videos when travelling.

One of the most impressive features of this camera is its advanced autofocus system which consists of 425 autofocus points spread across the entire image frame, allowing you to quickly lock onto subjects regardless of where they are located within the frame.

There’s also eye AF technology that enables you to keep your subject in focus even when they are not looking directly at the camera; perfect for photographing animals or people who may not necessarily be looking at you when you’re taking photos of them.

Another great feature of this camera is its 5-axis electronic image stabilization which helps reduce blurriness due to camera shake while shooting handheld or from moving vehicles.

This can be especially useful when taking photos while travelling as it makes it easier to capture sharp images without having to worry about blur caused by shaky hands or other vibrations.

In terms of design, the Sony A6600 has an intuitive touchscreen display on its rear panel which makes controlling various aspects such as focus point selection or menu navigation very easy. Additionally, it has a dedicated dial on top for changing shooting modes quickly depending on your needs.

Best of all, this camera is easy and intuitive to use thanks to its touchscreen display on the rear panel which makes controlling various aspects very simple. There’s also a dedicated dial on top for quickly changing shooting modes depending on your needs.

If you’re in search for a travel camera that’s easy to use for beginners, yet still provides quality performance, then look no further than Sony A6600.

Not only does it deliver incredible image resolution but also advanced features such as 4K video recording and 5-axis stabilization, all housed in a lightweight body perfect to bring along on your journeys!

In conclusion, with its great value and enviable specs list this camera is an ideal choice for travelers looking to take their photos up notch without having to suffer through a steep learning curve to get the most out of it.

Check out my top 5 mirrorless cameras for beginners if you’re just starting your journey as a travel photographer!

Best action camera for travel photography

Gopro hero 11 black, the world’s favorite action cam.

If you’re looking for a small camera, the GoPro HERO 11 Black is currently the best choice for travel photography and videography, as it offers a wealth of features and capabilities that make it ideal for capturing stunning images and videos on the go.

Very compact, fits in a pocket
Extremely robust
Perfect for capturing memories
Lots of accessories available
Not great for photos
Not professional-level quality

It boasts a powerful image sensor with 27-megapixel resolution, 5.3K video recording at up to 60 frames per second, and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity so you can share your photos instantly.

Perhaps one of the best features of the GoPro HERO 11 Black is its image stabilisation system, which uses cutting-edge technology to reduce blurriness and create smooth and stable footage even when you’re recording during a bumpy ride or walking along a rough path.

Additionally, with its waterproof design, you can safely take this camera on any type of adventure without having to worry about damage from water or dust.

The GoPro HERO 11 Black also comes with numerous creative tools such as time-lapse mode, which allows you to record moments over longer periods of time, slow motion mode, and night lapse mode, perfect for capturing stunning scenery after dark.

You can also use the companion app to control your camera remotely and access additional editing functions like HDR modes and color grading.

The GoPro HERO 11 Black is the perfect camera for travel as it is extremely compact and lightweight. This makes it ideal for carrying around with you on any type of adventure. Its robust design ensures that it can survive the rigors of travel no matter if you’re trekking in the desert or hiking through a rainforest.

What’s more, this camera features an intuitive user interface which makes it easy to use even when you’re out and about.

Its menu system is organized into simple categories so you can quickly access all the settings and functions you need without having to dig through layers of menus.

It also has an integrated LCD display which allows you to preview your shots, great for when you want to quickly review your images before sharing them online!

Another benefit of choosing this camera for travel photography is its battery life, it’s capable of lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge, more than enough time to capture those special moments while traveling! On top of that, it supports both USB-C and micro USB charging options so you can recharge your device anywhere with ease.

While the GoPro isn’t the best choice if you’re mainly looking for a good camera to take photos, it’s video capabilities are unmatched in such a compact package. That said, the photos you can capture with the GoPro HERO 11 are perfectly acceptable for social media and sharing with friends and family.

Overall, the GoPro HERO 11 Black is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a small camera to capture stunning videos and acceptable images while travelling. With its powerful image sensor, 5.3K video recording capabilities and numerous creative tools, this camera will ensure that you never miss a moment while on the go!

What to look for when buying an action camera for travel photography?

When it comes to choosing the best action camera for travel photography, there are several features to consider.

Firstly, look out for cameras with an impressive level of image sharpness, as this will ensure that you capture stunning photos wherever you go!

Focus on models that offer waterproofing and dustproofing capabilities, these will be essential for keeping your camera safe in all environments. Then, check if the device offers 4K video recording capabilities, as this will enable you to capture ultra-high resolution footage regardless of the location.

Also look out for options with both electronic and optical image stabilization technology as this is important for ensuring that your images remain sharp and clear even when taking handheld shots. Lastly, make sure to look at the battery life of each model as this is key for ensuring that you don’t run out of power during a shoot.

Overall, with so many different action cameras available on the market today it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. However, by taking into account all of the features mentioned above you should be able to find a great option that meets your needs and budget!

Best DSLR for travel photography

Check out our experts team’s favorite DSLR cameras for travel photography for more options.

If you have to pick a DSLR

The Nikon D850 is a powerful DSLR camera that is perfect for capturing your travel memories and is currently the DSLR I would recommend for travel photography.

Having said that, I would say go for a mirrorless camera over a DSLR if you can because they are far more practical for traveling .

But, if you have your heart set on a DSLR, this full frame camera certainly packs a punch.

Good image quality
Large range of lenses
Very bulky and heavy
Not the most technologically advanced
DSLRs are the worst choice for travel photography

This full-frame DSLR has an impressive 45 megapixel sensor which can capture stunning, high-resolution images even in low light situations.

It also boasts a fast, 151 point autofocus system and the ability to shoot up to 7fps in burst mode. With these features, you can be sure that even the most fleeting moments will be captured with crystal clear detail.

The D850 also offers impressive 4K video capabilities as well as a smooth 1080p recording at up to 120 fps, allowing you to capture professional-grade footage of fast moving scenes or slow motion shots effortlessly. Moreover, it comes with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity options, making transferring photos from the camera to your phone or tablet quick and easy.

When it comes to lens selection, the D850 presents a wide variety of options from wide angle lenses for capturing expansive landscapes to telephoto lenses for zooming in on distant subjects with clarity and precision. Its compatibility with both FX and DX lenses ensures that you’ll have plenty of options when choosing which lens fits best for each situation.

The Nikon D850 also includes an array of creative tools such as HDR imaging and multiple exposure modes which let you create unique compositions by blending different images together.

Also, its RAW image format support allows users to access every bit of detail captured by the camera’s sensor, great if you want more control over editing your photos afterwards!

If you’re looking for an all-in-one travel photography solution then consider investing in a Nikon D850 its combination of powerful features and robust design make it one of the best cameras available on the market today.

Why choose a DSLR travel camera?

When it comes to DSLR cameras for travel photography, there are both pros and cons that need to be taken into consideration.

On the plus side, DSLRs generally provide more flexibility when it comes to lenses and settings, making them great for capturing both wide-angle shots and close-up details of your subject; they offer large sensors providing vibrant colors, great sharpness and outstanding low-light performance.

Moreover, most modern DSLRs come with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity which allows you to instantly share your photos online, something that’s becoming increasing common in modern travel cameras.

However, DSLRs can be quite bulky compared to mirrorless cameras meaning you’ll have to spend extra time packing and unpacking your equipment when travelling.

This is especially true if you plan on bringing multiple lenses with you.

Many entry level DSLRs don’t come with advanced autofocus systems or face detection technology which can be quite useful when shooting in unpredictable environments, something that many mirrorless models offer as a standard feature.

In conclusion, a DSLR, in most cases, probably isn’t right for travel photography. Instead opt for one of the many mirrorless or compact cameras out there.

What to look for when buying a DSLR travel camera?

If, for whatever reason, you’ve decided that a DSLR is for you despite their disadvantages, there are a few key features which you should consider.

Firstly, when it comes to better image quality, look for a large sensor size; larger sensors provide better low-light performance and more detail in images.

Look at the ISO range. Higher ISOs provide better noise reduction when shooting in dimly lit or night environments. Many modern cameras can reach ISO values of up to 25,600 which is very useful in such situations.

You should also pay attention to the dynamic range, this helps capture more details in highlights and shadows and reduces the risk of losing important details due to overexposure or underexposure.

Another important factor is battery life. If you plan on being out and about all day then make sure that your camera has decent battery capacity.

You should also take into account whether or not the camera offers live view shooting, this allows you to preview your shots before taking them so that you know they’ll turn out exactly how you want them!

Furthermore, many models also come with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity which allows you to instantly share your photos online, perfect when travelling!

Face detection technology is also another feature which can be very useful when shooting portraits or selfies while travelling as it ensures that faces remain sharp regardless of movement or changes in light conditions.

Best Smartphone for Travel Photography

Sony xperia pro-i, best camera in a smartphone.

The Sony Xperia Pro-I is an excellent choice for any travel photographer looking for a reliable and powerful camera but who doesn’t want the inconvenience or extra expensive of buying a dedicated camera.

It features a 20MP sensor that offers stunning image quality with great dynamic range, low-noise performance, and outstanding color reproduction; your photos will look great no matter the time of day or night.

2-in-1 phone and camera
Extreamly travel-friendly
Camera technology taken from Sony’s excellent cameras
Limited compared to dedicated cameras
Small sensor size
Limited built-in optical zoom range

The Xperia Pro-I also comes equipped with a fast hybrid autofocus system that allows you to quickly and accurately focus on even the most fleeting subjects and its built-in 5-axis optical image stabilization (OIS) helps reduce motion blur when shooting in low light conditions.

What’s more, the camera on the Sony Xperia Pro-I has impressive ISO sensitivity up to 12800, offering photographers the flexibility to capture everything from bright outdoor scenes to dimly lit indoor environments.

It also features an advanced face detection system which helps ensure faces remain sharp regardless of movement or changes in light conditions, perfect for taking great portrait shots while travelling!

Best of all, as it’s a smartphone, you can share your images instantly with others. You can even edit them directly on the device without having to upload them to a computer first!

In terms of lenses, the Sony Xperia Pro-I comes equipped with a versatile selection ranging from wide angle to telephoto, a perfect zoom range for capturing both grand scenes and detailed closeups.

It also features an innovative triple lens set up which allows you to switch between lenses rapidly when needed without having to physically swap out lenses so you can quickly capture different perspectives on the go.

With its wide aperture range f/2 – f/4 you will be able to create shallow depth of field effects as well as produce softer backgrounds, perfect for creating dramatic portraits!

If you’re searching for an ultimate travel camera and smartphone combination, the Sony Xperia Pro-I is your perfect choice!

After all, you’ll likely have a smartphone with you anyway, and with this you’re killing two birds with one stone!

All in all, the Sony Xperia Pro-I will definitely not disappoint if you’re looking for the best smartphone for travel photography.

What to look for when buying a smartphone for travel photography?

If you’re a keen traveller and want to take great photos while on the go, then there are several factors to consider when choosing the right smartphone for your needs.

Obviously, look out for models with good cameras as these will provide a better end result than budget options.

Secondly, make sure that the device has plenty of storage space, both internal and external, as this is important for ensuring that you can store plenty of photos without having to delete them from time to time.

Thirdly, some smartphones come equipped with dual-lens (or more!) systems which allow you to capture wide angle shots in addition to standard and telephoto ones. Finally, be sure to check what type of image stabilization technology is built into the device as this will help keep your photos sharp and blur free.

Overall, smartphones offer great value for money when it comes to travel photography, and with the right model you can easily rival compact cameras at a fraction of the cost!

Just make sure that you check out all the features mentioned above before making a purchase as this will ensure that you get the best bang for your buck! Best of luck in finding your perfect smartphone companion on your travels!

Why choose a smartphone for travel photography?

As technology constantly advances, smartphones are becoming increasingly impressive tools for travel photography.

Smartphones provide a great level of convenience, as they are incredibly lightweight and can easily fit into a pocket or bag. Furthermore, many models come with large sensors and sophisticated camera software which is capable of capturing stunning shots, even in challenging lighting conditions.

Additionally, their portability makes it easy to quickly snap unexpected moments without having to fumble around for your camera equipment.

However, there are some drawbacks to using a smartphone when traveling.

Firstly, most built-in cameras have limited manual control making it difficult to capture complex photos such as long exposure shots with slow shutter speeds.

In many models, the reliance on digital zoom rather than optical zoom means that you will struggle to get close up shots of wildlife and other far away subjects without losing any quality.

Finally, battery life can be an issue on long trips as smartphones tend to drain their power fairly quickly when used for intensive activities such as photography.

Overall, smartphones offer considerable advantages when it comes to travel photography, but you should also take note of their limitations before taking the plunge and purchasing one.

By weighing up both these pros and cons carefully you’ll be in a much better position to pick the perfect companion for your next trip around the world!

A man taking a photo with Sony RX100 camera

Why choose point-and-shoot compact cameras for travel photography?

A point-and-shoot compact camera is a great choice for travel photography as they offer a lightweight and portable option that won’t take up too much space thanks to their fixed lens design.

They are often smaller than DSLRs and mirrorless alternatives, making them easy to carry around without sacrificing image quality and features.

They also usually come with plenty of automatic settings which can make the learning process easier for beginners who want to get started with photography quickly.

One of the main advantages of using point-and-shoot cameras is their ease of use; they have less buttons and settings than others, meaning you don’t need to spend time learning how to use them before starting your shoots.

Furthermore, many compact cameras offer special features such as face detection or scene modes which can be very useful when shooting in unfamiliar environments or trying to capture special moments at a fast pace.

You will find that many point-and-shoot models also provide Wi-Fi connectivity which allows you to easily share your photos online, which is perfect for those keen on social media !

There are, however, some disadvantages associated with using point-and-shoot cameras for travel photography.

Firstly, a compact camera will lack the flexibility of an interchangeable lens system when it comes to lens choices, so if you wish to capture wide angle shots then this might not be possible, depending on the model.

And, although some models may offer large sensors (1″ or larger), most still tend to produce lower quality images than those found in DSLRs and mirrorless cameras due to the smaller size of the sensor.

Their autofocus systems may not be as quick or accurate either so tracking fast-moving subjects like wildlife may prove difficult depending on the model.

Overall, point-and-shoot cameras provide a great option for those looking for lightweight portability when travelling but should not be considered if absolute image quality is key as they cannot match the levels offered by DSLR and mirrorless systems.

What to look for when buying a point-and-shoot travel camera

When looking to buy a point-and-shoot compact camera for travel photography it is important to consider a few crucial features that can make or break your experience.

Firstly, look for cameras with larger sensors (1″ or larger) as these will provide better results and improved low-light performance than smaller sensors.

Look for cameras with fast autofocus systems as this will allow you to more easily capture moving subjects such as wildlife that require faster shutter speeds.

Look for models with good exposure control too as you may encounter difficult lighting conditions while travelling that require some manual adjustments from time to time.

It’s also worth considering the number of megapixels on offer. Higher megapixel cameras are able to capture finer details in landscapes and other scenes which may be difficult to see up close.

If you plan on shooting video then you should look out for features such as 4K video recording which provides an excellent quality of footage and high frame rates, making them great for capturing action shots while travelling.

Lastly, many point-and-shoot cameras will come equipped with built-in flash units which can be very useful when taking pictures in low light situations, but keep an eye out for models with external flash options too!

For those who wish to share their images online, make sure that your chosen model offers Wi-Fi connectivity so that it’s easy to upload your images straight away!

Best budget camera for travelling

Canon g7x iii, compact and budget-friendly.

The Canon G7X III is a great choice for those looking for a compact and lightweight budget travel camera. It offers excellent image quality, fast autofocus capabilities, 4K video recording, and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity which makes it easy to share photos online while travelling.

Very compact all-in-one system
Value for money
Versatile (great for both photos and videos)
Not as good as the Sony RX100 VII
Fixed lens system

When it comes to budget-friendly options, compact cameras are often the way to go. You get everything you need in one package and you won’t have to fork out on additional lenses.

The Canon G7X III is equipped with a 1″ 20.1 megapixel CMOS sensor which provides excellent image quality in both low light and bright conditions.

The camera also offers an ISO range of 125-12800, allowing you to take advantage of higher ISO settings when needed without sacrificing image quality.

It also features a fast and accurate autofocus system with 315 points of coverage which makes it easy to capture sharp images even when dealing with fast-moving subjects such as wildlife or sports.

This camera also offers 4K video recording at 30 fps and Full HD recording at up to 120 fps, making it great for capturing action shots while travelling.

It also features five-axis electronic stabilization which helps reduce blurriness due to camera shake while shooting handheld or from moving vehicles.

The Canon G7X III is also equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity so that you can easily transfer your photos online for quick sharing on social media or other websites.

This feature can be very useful when travelling as you don’t need to wait until you get back home before sharing your photos online!

In terms of physical design, the Canon G7X III is quite lightweight at 304 g (0.67 lb / 10.72 oz) making it very portable and easy to carry around when travelling. It has an intuitive touchscreen display on the rear which makes it easier to control various aspects of the camera such as exposure settings or menu navigation.

The camera has a dedicated dial located on top of its body which allows you to quickly change shooting modes depending on your needs.

The Canon G7X III is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact yet capable travel camera that won’t break their budget and provides good enough performance in most situations encountered whilst travelling.

Best travel camera for street photography

Fujifilm x-t5, classic body, modern features.

With the Fujifilm X-T5 , street photographers can take their artistry to new heights. Featuring a 40 megapixel APS-C image sensor, this camera produces vivid and clear images and captures both highlights and shadows excellently; its native ISO range of 160–12800 is especially impressive!

Ergonomic exterior controls mean you don’t have to dive into the menu often
Aluminum construction, very robust
Compact APS-C system with great range of compact lenses
Excellent image quality
Great retro looks
Learning curve if transitioning from another system
A bit heavy for an APS-C body

You’ll be able to capture fast-action shots at 8fps with AF/AE tracking or record 6.2K video at 30 fps, truly remarkable capabilities for any budding shutterbug.

With the Fujifilm X-T5, you can snap amazing shots of subjects quickly and easily.

Its advanced autofocus system features an impressive 425 phase detection points that cover the entire image frame, letting you lock onto your subject no matter where they are in the photo.

Plus, its eye AF technology keeps them crystal clear even when their gaze is averted; perfect for candid street photography!

One of the key features that makes the Fujifilm X-T5 a great choice for street photography is its wide range of prime lenses available. These specialty lenses offer a unique perspective by providing sharp images with beautiful background blur, which are perfect for emphasizing your subject.

The Fujifilm X-T5 is equipped with a 3 inch LCD touchscreen display on the back, making it effortless to select focus points or navigate menus.

You can tilt the LCD screen up or down so that you don’t have to twist yourself when taking photos from different angles.

There’s also a tactile dial on top for quickly adjusting shooting modes as needed.

This camera’s incredible 5-axis image stabilization system is ideal for reducing blurriness from hand shake or vibrations of cars and buses when you’re travelling.

No longer do you have to worry about hazy pictures due to unsteady hands!

Not only does this simplify the process of taking clear photos, but it also decreases fatigue from holding your camera in the same position after extended time outdoors – what could be better?

The Fujifilm X-T5 is constructed of high-grade magnesium alloy, guaranteeing that it can handle whatever you throw at it, perfect for adventurous photographers who demand a dependable camera wherever they go.

Whether used domestically or abroad, this lightweight yet powerful device packs top notch features without sacrificing in quality. No matter what your photography needs are, the Fujifilm XT5 offers an unmistakable level of performance and reliability to make sure all your shots come out amazing!

If you’re searching for a street photography camera that is packed with the latest features in a stylish and and robust package, the Fujifilm X-T5 cannot be beaten!

With its advanced auto focus system, 5-axis image stabilization and ergonomic design, it’s perfect for capturing amazing photos while travelling.

Best travel camera for vlogging on the go

Full-frame with a flip-out screen.

The Sony A7C is an amazing camera for vlogging and content creation. With its full-frame 24 megapixel image sensor, you can capture stunning images with rich colors and sharp details.

Full-frame sensor
Flip-out rotating screen
Great value (especially for a full-frame camera)
No EVF (electronic viewfinder)
Not as capable as the Sony A7S III

This camera also comes with an impressive ISO range of 100-51200 (expands to 50-204800) so even in low light conditions, you can still get clear and vibrant images.

The fast hybrid auto focus system with real-time tracking makes it a breeze to keep your subject in focus when recording videos or taking photos; perfect for capturing spontaneous moments!

In addition to its impressive imaging capabilities, the Sony A7C’s compact design makes it ideal for vlogging on the go!

Weighing 509 g (1.12 lb / 17.95 oz) and measuring 124 x 71 x 60 mm (4.88 x 2.8 x 2.36″), this camera won’t take up much space in your bag while you travel so there’s no need to worry about lugging around a bulky camera anymore!

Perhaps most importantly, its flip-out LCD screen lets you easily frame yourself up while shooting video; a must-have feature on any camera that you want to use for vlogging .

When vlogging, sound quality is just as important as visuals.

The Sony A7C offers a plethora of audio features that will help you capture crystal clear audio recordings even in windy environments or noisy outdoor settings.

Its 24-bit/192kHz linear PCM audio recording format ensures that your recordings are free from distortion even at high volume levels.

The A7C comes with five built-in microphones that offer directional sensitivity for improved clarity and noise reduction during recordings; perfect for capturing clear audio without the need for an external microphone.

The Sony A7C is an impressive option for those looking to craft content or vlogging.

It provides brilliant better image quality than other cameras in the same price bracket, plus it’s equipped with features that improve audio recordings even when outside or in loud locations.

Its lightweight construction allows you to transport the camera wherever your adventures take you, and it’s flip-out LCD screen means you will never miss a great shot when you get the urge to record yourself.

With a wide range of options available, choosing the best camera for travel can be daunting. That’s why I have put together this comprehensive guide – every budget and type included!

From DSLRs to mirrorless travel cameras, point-and-shoot compact cameras and action cams, there is something here for everyone. Whether you are an experienced photographer looking to upgrade or a novice looking for a beginner camera who’s just starting out with photography, myself and my expert team have done all the research so you don’t have too.

We will help you find the perfect camera that fits your style, skill level and budget!

So get ready because this is going be an exciting journey into discovering some of today’s most advanced imaging technology!

Read on as we explore what makes each camera unique, their features & specs as well as which ones offer great value for money.

Let’s dive in!

A man with a camera in front of display board at a train station

So, what is the best camera for travel?

In short, as a professional travel photographer, I recommend a mirrorless camera for travel photography over a DSLR or compact camera because of their size and weight advantages.

Plus, the industry is moving away from DSLRs and towards mirrorless cameras, meaning manufactures usually put the latest features and technology inside their flagship mirrorless cameras first.

However, that’s the short answer, and depends on a range of other factors such as your budget, what you’ll be doing with the photos and your travel style ( i.e . do you travel with checked luggage? Or do you only travel with cabin baggage?).

When choosing a camera, you must consider a variety of factors including budget, type of photography and skill level.

Whether you are an experienced photographer upgrading your gear or someone just starting out, there is something here for everyone!

From DSLRs to mirrorless travel cameras and point-and-shoot compacts, we have done all the research so you don’t have too.

In this guide, we will explore a range of travel cameras and help you find the perfect camera that fits your style and budget.

What This Guide is About?

We will explore what makes each camera unique, their features & specs as well as which ones offer great value for money.

Whether you are an experienced photographer looking to upgrade or a beginner just starting out with photography, our expert team has done all the research so you don’t have too.

What This Guide is Not?

This guide is not designed to be a comprehensive review of every camera available.

Instead, we will focus on the best cameras for travel that are great value for money and offer features & specs suitable for all skill levels.

We will also provide an overview of each camera’s pros and cons so you can make an informed decision when choosing the best camera for your needs.

A DSLR camera taking a photo of a tower at sunset

How to choose the best camera for travel photography?

Choosing the best travel camera can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you.

What is your budget?

How much are you willing to spend on a travel camera?

Are you an enthusiast looking for something basic? Or are you a professional travel photographer looking for something more advanced?

What is the most important feature you need in your budget range? Do you have any specific features that are non-negotiable within your budget?

It is important to consider these factors when choosing the best travel camera as each type of camera has unique features that are suited to different types of photography.

For instance, DSLR cameras offer a range of interchangeable lenses which allow for greater flexibility in shooting styles and angles. This makes them ideal for landscape and portrait photography.

Mirrorless cameras are also becoming increasingly popular due to their portability, fast autofocus capabilities and excellent sharpness. They offer many of the same features as DSLRs but without the bulk or weight.

Point-and-shoot compacts are perfect for travelling photographers who want an affordable, lightweight and easy-to-use camera that takes great photos.

Although they don’t have the same sophisticated features as some of the other cameras on this list, they make up for it with their affordability and ease of use, making them perfect for beginners or those just starting out with photography.

Finally, action cams are ideal for capturing high-adrenaline experiences such as extreme sports or adventure travel.

These small cameras can be mounted on helmets or attached to drones to capture incredible footage from difficult angles or remote locations. Action cams come in a variety of sizes and feature sets so you can find one that suits your budget and needs perfectly.

When deciding on the best travel camera, it’s important to take into account your budget, type of photography you’ll be doing (landscape, portrait etc.), skill level (beginner photographer vs professional) as well as any specific features you may need within your budget range.

It’s also important to take into consideration whether you’ll be taking photos remotely (such as using a drone) or if mobility is key, such as using a point-and-shoot or an action cam, so you can ensure you get the best shots possible in varying conditions.

By researching different types of cameras available today, you’ll be able to find one that fits your style, skill level and budget, allowing you to capture some incredible memories during your travels!

A man taking a photo on a bridge in Paris

How do you plan to use your images?

When choosing the best travel camera for you, it is important to consider how you plan to use your images. Will they be printed out and framed? Are you looking to post them online or share them with friends and family?

Do you need certain features such as built-in GPS tagging or Wi-Fi connectivity? Knowing how you plan to use your photos will help you make the optimal decision when choosing a camera that offers the features most suited for your photography needs.

Professional photographers need to be able to capture the highest quality images possible in any situation, as their photos will either be published or sold.

Therefore, they need a camera that offers a wide range of features, such as high ISO performance, fast autofocus speeds and RAW image format capability. These cameras tend to be large and more expensive than other types of cameras but the quality of the images they produce is worth it for professionals.

On the other hand, personal travel photography is typically done for fun or for sharing with family and friends online. In this case, it’s important to choose a camera that fits your budget and offers decent image performance for social media sharing or travel memories, not not necessarily for large prints or commercial reasons.

Point-and-shoot compact cameras are affordable yet offer good results in most situations. They are also easy to use and relatively lightweight which makes them ideal for travelling photographers who want an uncomplicated camera that takes great photos without the bulk of some larger models.

Mirrorless cameras offer great value for money and are becoming increasingly popular with both professional and amateur photographers alike due to their portability, fast autofocus capabilities, excellent image clarity and range of interchangeable lenses which allow greater flexibility in shooting styles and angles.

They provide many of the same features as DSLR cameras but without the bulk or weight – making them perfect for those who need a powerful camera that can easily be transported from place to place without sacrificing on photo quality.

Action cams are also great for capturing high-adrenaline experiences such as extreme sports or adventure travel as they can be mounted on helmets or attached to drones to capture incredible footage from difficult angles or remote locations.

Action cams come in various shapes and sizes so you can find one that fits your budget while still providing top-notch picture quality suitable for your needs.

By researching different types of cameras available today you’ll be able to find one that fits your style and needs perfectly, allowing you to capture some incredible memories during your travels!

A person taking a makro photo of a butterfly

A note on image quality

Image quality is certainly an important factor to consider when choosing a travel camera, but it shouldn’t be the main focus. Most cameras these days offer good image quality, which is usually more than sufficient for personal use. Unless you plan to sell your images or make large prints, there isn’t much need for ultra high-quality photos.

For professional travel photographers who will be selling their images or printing them out in high resolution, having a camera that offers the best possible image quality is essential.

This means opting for a model with higher megapixels and better low light performance, as well as features such as RAW format capture and faster autofocus speeds.

Even if you aren’t a professional travel photographer and don’t plan to sell your images or make large prints of them, having good image quality can still be beneficial.

For example, higher resolution images will look better when viewing on a laptop or TV screen and they will also allow you to crop sections of the photo without losing too much quality, something that can be very useful when editing photos after returning home from your travels.

Ask yourself, “how you plan to use your photos?”.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options based on these criteria, then take into consideration factors such as better image quality and price, although neither should necessarily be the primary focus of your decision making process.

By taking the time to research different types of cameras available today, you’ll be able to find one that fits both your style and budget, letting you create some amazing memories during your travels!

Considerations

When buying a travel camera, there are several important considerations to be aware of. Firstly, it is important to think about the type of photography you will be doing during your travels. Are you looking to capture landscapes, people, wildlife or all of the above? Different types of cameras offer different features and capabilities that may be better suited to the specific types of shots you’re looking to take.

It is also important to think about durability when it comes to purchasing a travel camera. Many people opt for a DSLR as they are known for being extremely durable and able to withstand tough conditions such as dust, water and extreme temperatures.

However, if you plan on taking your camera on long hikes or remote locations, then an action cam might be more suitable due to its lightweight design and ability to mount it onto helmets or drones for easy transportation.

Also think about any additional accessories you may need such as extra lenses or tripods etc., which can all add up quickly but may be necessary depending on the type of shots you’re looking to take during your travels.

Taking into account all these factors will help ensure that you purchase the right camera that fits both your style and budget.

Photography Terminology to Know When Buying a Travel Camera

Mirrorless camera.

A mirrorless camera is a type of digital camera that does not use an optical viewfinder like a traditional DSLR, but instead relies on an electronic viewfinder and/or LCD screen.

The advantage of this is you get to see what your image will look like before you take it because the electronic viewfinder and/or LCD screen show you a live preview, sometimes known as ‘live view’.

This allows the photographer to preview their images in real time and make adjustments before taking the shot. Mirrorless cameras are often lighter and more compact than DSLRs, making them ideal for travel photography where size and weight can be limiting factors.

These days, a mirrorless camera will feature things such as Wi-Fi connectivity and GPS tagging which can make organizing and editing photos after returning home much easier.

As opposed to a mirrorless camera, a Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera is a type of digital camera that uses a mirror and prism system to direct light from the lens to an optical viewfinder on the back of the camera.

The disadvantage of this is that you don’t get to see what your image will look like in ‘live view’ ( i.e . with all the settings applied such as shutter speed, ISO, etc. ) as you would with a mirrorless camera.

DSLR cameras also offer interchangeable lenses, allowing you to switch between wide angle shots, telephoto zooms or macro photography depending on what kind of photos you are looking for.

They generally produce higher quality images than other types of cameras due to their larger sensor size and better low-light performance. However, so do mirrorless cameras.

Compact camera (point-and-shoot)

Compact travel cameras (otherwise known as point-and-shoot cameras) are ideal for travel, as they are lightweight and portable, yet still provide great results.

These cameras usually feature a 1-inch sensor, which is larger than what you would find on most action cameras and smartphones. This allows them to capture more light and detail in low light situations, making them perfect for capturing stunning photos while travelling.

The best compact travel cameras also typically come with features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, GPS tagging and various shooting modes, all allowing you to capture the best shots possible during your travels and organize them on the move.

One of the main advantages of using a compact camera for travel photography is the fact that they generally have better battery life than most other types of cameras on the market. This means that you won’t have to worry about constantly recharging your camera or running out of juice during an important shoot!

Furthermore, since they are smaller and lighter than DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, they are easier to pack when going on trips as well.

For those who want something more affordable yet still want great quality images and features, then a compact camera could be an ideal option.

Although they may not offer quite the same level of performance as some of the higher end models available today, they will still provide you with excellent image quality at a fraction of the cost!

Action camera

An action camera is a type of digital camera that is designed for capturing moments in motion.

It’s small and lightweight, making it ideal for travel photography and activities such as extreme sports, hiking, and more.

An action camera typically has an ultra-wide angle lens to capture wider scenes, image stabilization to reduce any blur from camera shake, and water-resistant casing to protect against dust, dirt, snow, and water.

Action cameras also often have additional features such as built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity so you can easily transfer photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet.

They usually have long battery life so you can go on long trips without worrying about running out of power. Some models even have GPS capability to log the location where each video or photo was captured.

Some action cameras come with accessories such as helmet mounts, tripods, and remote controls that allow you to take pictures or record video even when you are not holding the device in your hands.

In terms of quality of image, most modern action cameras provide excellent results with high resolution photos and videos thanks to HD sensors and other image enhancement technologies. Many models also offer manual settings such as shutter speed control for advanced users who want more control over the creative process.

Overall, an action camera is the perfect tool for capturing all kinds of fun activities during your travels: from extreme sports like skiing or mountain biking to simple everyday moments like sunsets over the beach, whatever kind of adventure awaits!

Aperture is one of the most important factors when it comes to photography.

It refers to the size of the opening in a lens or camera, which allows light to pass through and reach the camera’s sensor.

The larger the aperture, the more light that can pass through, resulting in brighter images with shorter exposure times and better low-light performance.

Aperture size is measured in ‘f-stops’ and is usually represented as a number such as f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, etc. The smaller the number, the larger the aperture which lets more light into the camera for brighter pictures.

Aperture also has an effect on depth of field, which determines how much of your image will be in focus at once. If you have a large aperture (smaller number), then your depth of field will be shallower than if you had a small aperture (larger number). This means that only certain parts of your image will be sharp and focused, while other parts (such as the background) may appear blurry or out of focus, a desirable look in portrait photography.

Additionally, aperture affects how much background blur you can achieve with your pictures. So if you want to create beautiful bokeh effects with your shots then having a large aperture is essential!

Finally, when selecting a camera for travel photography, it is important to keep in mind that not all lenses are created equal. Some lenses offer better low-light performance than others and so lower f-stop numbers should be taken into consideration when shopping around for a new model.

ISO stands for International Organization of Standardization and it is a number that indicates the sensitivity of your camera’s sensor to light.

The higher the number, the more sensitive the sensor is and thus, the more light it can capture. As a general rule of thumb, you should use lower ISO numbers in brightly lit situations and higher ISO numbers in low-light scenarios.

The ISO range for most cameras starts at 100-200 and can go up to 6400 or even higher in some models. Using a higher ISO setting will give you brighter images with less noise, but you may also introduce digital artifacts like smearing or color shifts if you push it too far.

In short, a high ISO number captures more light, but at the expense of image clarity.

That said, modern cameras are capable of producing excellent results even at very high ISO settings so long as they have good noise reduction software.

It’s important to remember that different cameras offer different ranges of ISOs, so it’s important to do your research before buying a camera specifically for low-light photography.

Lenses with larger maximum apertures (smaller f-stop numbers) can help compensate for lower ISOs by allowing more light into the camera body which results in brighter images despite using lower sensitivity settings.

It’s essential that you understand how ISO works when buying a new travel camera, particularly if you plan on doing any night or low-light shooting.

By familiarizing yourself with different ISOs and their effects on your photographs, you’ll be able to select the best option for all your travel photography needs!

Shutter speed

Shutter speed determines how much time your camera sensor has to capture light.

It’s measured in seconds or fractions of a second and is typically represented as numbers such as 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, and so on. The lower the number, the longer the exposure time, meaning you can capture more detail in images but also introducing the possibility of image blur due to camera shake.

On the other hand, higher shutter speeds reduce motion blur and freeze action making them ideal for shooting sports and wildlife.

When selecting a travel camera, it’s important to consider the maximum shutter speed available on your model; most cameras range from 1/4000th of a second up to 30 seconds but some can go even further.

Faster shutter speeds are much better at freezing motion than slower ones so having access to faster speeds can make all the difference when capturing fast-moving subjects like people walking or a car driving by.

Additionally, slower shutter speeds allow for more creative techniques such as intentional camera movement (ICM), where you move your camera during exposure to create streaks of light in your photos.

If you plan on shooting sports or wildlife then investing in a faster lens with wider maximum aperture will definitely be beneficial!

Finally, newer cameras have features that help combat motion blur such as in-body or digital stabilization that will allow you to shoot at slower shutter speeds handheld without introducing motion blur.

These features come especially handy if you’re shooting handheld or with long exposures, so make sure to check if your chosen model offers them before making a purchase!

What to look for When Buying a Travel Camera?

When it comes to buying a travel camera, there are several factors that you should consider.

ISO – Firstly, look at the ISO range of the camera. This will determine how well it performs in low-light scenarios and whether or not you’ll be able to capture clear images without introducing digital artifacts.

Shutter Speed – Secondly, check the shutter speed range, faster shutter speeds can help freeze motion while slower ones allow for more creative techniques such as intentional camera movement (ICM).

Stabilization – Thirdly, make sure to research any features your chosen model offers which could help combat motion blur like digital or in-body stabilization.

Lens Options – Lastly, consider the lens options available for each camera you are considering. They can cost more than the camera in some cases! So do you calculations and see if it’s worth it for you.

By taking into account all these points when selecting a new travel camera you’ll be sure to get the best option for all your needs!

Looking for a budget travel camera under $500?

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly travel camera, specifically one that will cost you less than $500, you’re in luck. We’ve got an incredible article that gives you a detailed rundown of the best travel cameras under $500 that you wont want to miss! Take a look (but only once you’ve finished reading this one!).

Best mirrorless camera for travel photography

Below is my favourite mirrorless camera currently on the market if I had to choose just one. But, if you want a more in-depth look at options for all budgets, styles and situations, check out my article about the best mirrorless cameras for travel .

Best camera brands

With so many different brands and models available, it can be difficult to know which one is best suited for your needs.

That’s why we’ll be discussing the top camera brands that are ideal for travel photography.

We’ll explore each brand’s features, pros and cons, as well as their range of products so you can make an informed decision before making a purchase! So if you’re ready to find out more about the best cameras for travelling, let’s get started!

Fujifilm has a long and storied history in the world of photography.

Founded in 1934, Fujifilm began its life as Fuji Photo Film Co. Ltd producing and selling photographic film to customers across Japan.

In the decades since then, they have grown to become one of the most recognizable names in the industry, producing an extensive range of both analogue and digital cameras.

In recent years, Fujifilm has developed an impressive lineup of digital cameras that are perfect for travel photography. Their X-series range consists of mirrorless cameras that offer high-quality image capture along with advanced features such as 4K video recording and built-in WiFi connectivity.

Their line of instant cameras includes fun options such as the Instax Mini 11 which is great for capturing quick snaps on the go. Best of all, each product is designed to be lightweight and compact, making them perfect for packing into your luggage!

Today, Fujifilm continues to push innovation forward in the world of photography, continually releasing new products that make it easier than ever before to capture stunning shots while travelling.

With their commitment to quality and performance, Fujifilm is well positioned to remain one of the top camera brands for many years to come!

Sony is a global leader in the world of consumer electronics and has been at the forefront of innovation for decades.

Founded in 1946, Sony began its life as Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo manufacturing radios, televisions, and various other electronic products.

Over the years, they have grown to become one of the most recognizable brands in the world and are now responsible for producing some of the best-selling cameras on the market.

When it comes to digital cameras, Sony leads the charge with their range of Alpha mirrorless cameras.

These devices offer impressive image quality along with advanced features such as 4K video recording and built-in WiFi connectivity.

Their range also includes smaller point-and-shoot models that are perfect for capturing quick snaps while travelling. Best of all, all of these devices come with Sony’s renowned reliability which makes them ideal for long trips or extreme environments.

Sony continues to innovate by releasing new products such as their high-end Alpha A1 camera which offers unprecedented levels of image quality and performance.

Leica is a brand that needs no introduction.

For more than a century, it has been synonymous with the highest quality and craftsmanship in photography.

Originally founded in 1849 as an optics company, it wasn’t until 1914 when Oskar Barnack designed the first Leica camera which revolutionized photography forever.

Throughout its long and storied history, Leica has consistently produced cameras that combine superb image quality with unmatched reliability and durability which is why they are the go-to choice for photographers all around the world.

Leica continues to innovate and push the boundaries of photography further than ever before whilst staying true to its roots of providing unparalleled image quality. Its range of digital cameras now includes not only fixed-lens models such as the M10-P but also mirrorless cameras like the SL2.

Best of all, each product is built to last, giving users years of reliable performance no matter what environment they find themselves in.

Leica has always had a strong focus on customer satisfaction by offering world-class customer service along with excellent warranty protection.

This allows customers to purchase their products with confidence knowing that they are backed by one of the most trusted names in photography.

Canon is one of the oldest and most established players in the digital camera market.

Founded in 1937, Canon was originally known as Seiki Kōgaku Kenkyūjo and was focused on producing precision optical products such as microscopes and cameras.

Canon has continually revolutionized photography releasing some of the most iconic cameras ever made such as the EOS series, Powershot range, and much more.

Canon’s devices offer a fantastic balance between quality and performance which makes them perfect for both professionals and hobbyists alike.

Nikon has been a major player in the photography industry since its original inception in 1917.

Founded by the merger of three leading optical firms, Nikon quickly rose to prominence and established itself as one of the world’s largest camera manufacturers.

Best known for their 35mm SLR cameras such as the F series and professional-grade DSLRs like the D series, Nikon has long been held in high regard by photographers all over the world.

Throughout its history, Nikon has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible with photography, releasing products that offer unprecedented levels of quality and performance.

Their range of digital cameras now includes not only SLRs but also mirrorless models such as the Z6 and Z7 which enable users to capture stunning shots without sacrificing portability or convenience.

In recent years, Nikon has also made significant investments into research and development, continually innovating new technologies such as their SnapBridge system which allows users to wirelessly transfer images from their cameras to their phones.

Panasonic

Panasonic is a world leader in consumer electronics, with products ranging from televisions and computers to cameras and camcorders. Best known for their Lumix line of digital cameras, Panasonic has long been held in high regard by both amateur and professional photographers all over the world.

Panasonic has continually challenged what is possible when it comes to digital photography. Best known for their tough, rugged cameras such as the Lumix FT7, which are built to withstand rough conditions and long days of shooting in the field, their range of point-and-shoot compact camera models such as the Lumix ZS70 offer users a convenient way to capture stunning shots without breaking the bank. Best of all, each product comes packed with advanced features, giving users total control over their creative process wherever they are.

GoPro

GoPro is one of the world’s leading names in action cameras, offering users a convenient way to capture stunning shots, no matter where they are. Best known for their flagship HERO line of devices, GoPro has been at the forefront of the action camera market since its inception in 2002.

Throughout its history, GoPro has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible when it comes to digital photography. Best known for their lightweight, water-resistant action cameras, particularly the HERO Black line, which are built to withstand tough conditions and long days in the wild.

Their range of accessories such as the Karma Grip allow users to capture smooth video footage with ease. Best of all, each product comes packed with advanced features like 4K video recording and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, giving users total control over their creative process wherever they are.

Hasselblad is a Swedish camera manufacturer that has been producing high-quality cameras and lenses since 1941.

Founded by Victor Hasselblad, the company quickly established itself as one of the world’s premiere brands for professional photography. Best known for their iconic medium format SLR cameras, Hasselblad has long been respected by photographers all over the world for their commitment to innovation, quality, and craftsmanship.

Throughout its history, Hasselblad has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible when it comes to photography.

Known for being on board every Apollo mission since 1969, the company is also credited with helping create some of the most iconic photos ever taken, including Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the moon, 12 of them are even still there !

Today, Hasselblad continues to revolutionize digital photography through its innovative offerings, cementing itself as one of the world’s top camera manufacturers in terms of quality and craftsmanship.

A woman taking a photo with Canon camera in a car mirror

Is it worth getting a camera for travel?

When it comes to capturing the perfect vacation or travel photos, there is no denying that a dedicated camera can make all the difference.

Thanks to advances in technology, today’s cameras are more portable and feature-packed than ever before giving users more control over their creative process wherever they are.

Best of all, with excellent customer service and warranty protection, modern cameras provide peace of mind when using them over time or in extreme environments.

When considering whether it is worth getting a dedicated travel camera, it is important to consider both the pros and cons.

On one hand, having a dedicated camera allows users to capture stunning images that would otherwise be impossible, allowing them to share their experience with friends and family whenever they want. Best of all, modern cameras allow users to take advantage of advanced features such as 4K video recording, giving them total control over their creative process wherever they are.

On the other hand, investing in a dedicated camera can be expensive, especially if you are purchasing high-end models from reputable brands such as Hasselblad and Leica. Additionally, lugging around a bulky DSLR or mirrorless camera while traveling can be inconvenient, especially when navigating through crowded areas or trying to fit your gear into tight spaces on public transportation.

Ultimately, whether or not it is worth getting a dedicated travel camera ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget constraints. If you are passionate about photography and want to take stunning images wherever you go investing in a quality digital camera is the way to go. However, if you primarily plan on taking snapshots here and there during your travels a smartphone may suffice for light duties. Thanks to advances in technology today’s smartphones are now able to compete with a dedicated travel camera!

Is iPhone camera good enough for travel?

Hand holding iPhone taking photo in Cinque Terre

Yes, an iPhone camera is good enough for travel.

However, if you plan to sell your images, use them in any other professional capacity or are serious about achieving the best results possible (perhaps you’re a keen photography enthusiast), then you will need either a mirrorless or DSLR to achieve the quality you want.

For the majority of people who are into photography as a hobby, an iPhone (especially newer models) is perfectly adequate.

For those who want to take professional-level shots, or even those enthusiasts who want to take their photography more seriously, an iPhone camera won’t achieve quite the same level of quality as a dedicated travel camera.

iPhones are capable of taking good photos, but they don’t offer the same level of versatility or features as a dedicated travel camera would. A dedicated travel camera usually offers more customization, control over aperture size and other settings, higher resolution images, better image stabilization capabilities, and better low-light performance than an iPhone or other smartphone ever could.

Investing in a dedicated travel camera is worth it for those who have an interest in photography and want to document their travels as it will offer superior value in terms of quality and convenience compared to an iPhone Camera. But for those who don’t really care about photography as a hobby an iPhone is perfectly adequate, even if you plan to take instagram by storm!

A Twitter thread what to choose DSLR or mirrorless

Why mobile photography?

Mobile photography has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience and utility.

Mobile phones have become an invaluable tool for capturing life’s moments by allowing photographers of any skill level to take stunning images without the need for large, bulky camera equipment.

Best of all, mobile phones come packed with advanced features such as HDR (high dynamic range) imaging, multiple lenses, and digital zoom capabilities, something that wasn’t possible with a mobile phone even a few short years ago!

For starters, the portability factor is a major advantage when it comes to using a mobile phone for photography.

Most modern smartphones are capable of full-resolution images rivaling those taken by professional cameras letting even casual photographers capture detailed images wherever they go.

Don’t believe me? Check out Dominika Koszowska’s work , she won World’s Top Mobile Photographer in 2020; her images are stunning!

And, thanks to advances in technology, today’s smartphones now offer features such as 4K video recording and live streaming capabilities and almost unlimited cloud storage (if you’re willing to pay for it).

All of this gives users total control over their creative process!

Furthermore, mobile phones also offer a variety of tools that can further enhance user’s photos on the go without having to carry around an additional laptop for editing.

Thanks to various editing apps, editing photos on your phone has never been easier or more intuitive. Many apps come packed with advanced features such as color grading filters and image manipulation tools which give users far more control over their creative process on the go than ever before!

Being able to edit photos directly on the device you took them with (and then even upload them to social media is you want) saves users tons of time in comparison to taking photos on a dedicated travel camera, importing them onto a laptop, editing them, exporting them and finally uploading them.

Ultimately, given its portability and versatility advantages, using a mobile phone for photography can be an invaluable asset for anyone looking to capture stunning images while on the go and has many clear advantages other other travel cameras.

Useful mobile photography gear

When it comes to mobile photography, having the right tools and gear can make a big difference in the quality of your images. Here are some useful pieces of mobile photography gear that you should consider investing in for your next trip:

Tripods – Having a flexible and lightweight tripod is essential for any mobile photographer. Tripods allow users to take steady and sharp photos from any angle or distance. Best of all, modern tripods come with built-in phone holders that make it easy for photographers to quickly mount their phone onto the gadget, allowing them to take professional-looking shots with maximum stability even in low light conditions.

This Joby GorillaPod with smartphone mounts is excellent as it can be used as a small, lightweight tripod, but you can also use its flexible legs to wrap it around object and mount it to things like trees to give you new angles to shoot from.

Lens filters – These mobile phone lens filters allow users to adjust certain aspects of their image without having to go through complex editing processes afterward. Best of all, lens filters come in different types such as polarizers, ultraviolet (UV), neutral density (ND) and variable ND which can be used to filter out specific colors or lights depending on what kind of effect the photographer is trying to achieve.
Phone mounting brackets – Phone mounting brackets are great accessories for those who want more control over how they frame their shots. Best of all, mounting brackets typically come with adjustable arms that allow users to move their phone around easily allowing them to create interesting angles and perspectives during their shoots!
Waterproof cases – Investing in a waterproof case is highly recommended for photographers who plan on taking pictures outdoors or in extreme weather conditions, or even underwater while scuba diving! Underwater photography is notoriously expensive to get into. Not only do you have to invest in a camera system, but underwater housings are incredible expensive. A waterproof case like the SeaLife SportDiver is a great option and an affordable way to get into underwater photography!
Remote shutter release – Remote shutter releases are great accessories for those who want more control over how they capture photos. Best of all, remote shutter releases offer users greater freedom when taking selfies or group-shots; as they can simply set up the photo composition and then trigger the shutter using the remote controller at a distance! Additionally, remote shutter releases also help reduce camera shake when taking long-exposure photos – allowing photographers of any level to capture stunning nightscapes without worrying about motion blur ruining their images!

Check out this affordable bluetooth shutter release that works with all mobile devices.

A note on storage

When it comes to capturing and storing photos on the go, smartphones have their limitations as they can only accommodate a certain amount of data. While many modern phones come with built-in memory card slots that allow users to expand their capabilities, these can be expensive and usually require a separate purchase.

And in some cases (ahem, Apple), upgrading your internal storage just simply isn’t possible.

Additionally, some phones may also limit the size of the memory card that they can accommodate meaning that users might have to settle for lower storage capacities if they want to save money.

To circumvent this issue, some photographers opt for cloud storage services such as Google Photos, Apple iCloud or Dropbox which allow them to upload copies of their images and access them from anywhere with an internet connection.

Using cloud storage services allows users to reduce their phone’s internal memory usage allowing them to take even more photos without having to worry about running out of space!

This convenience comes at a price though. While the initial outlay may be less than buying an additional SD card (which you would have to do if you had a dedicated travel camera), the ongoing monthly subscriptions can quickly add up.

Another advantage of cloud storage platforms is that they typically offer more secure back-up options for files, protecting users’ images from accidental deletion or loss due to physical damage.

Ultimately, having access to the right storage solutions is essential for any mobile photographer looking to take full advantage of their smartphone’s photography capabilities.

Use what you have

Chase Jarvis is a renowned photographer and entrepreneur who strongly believes that “The best camera, is the one that you have with you!”

He emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of whatever tools are available to capture meaningful memories or moments. For many mobile photographers, this means using their smartphones as their primary camera of choice.

Smartphones have come a long way when it comes to photography capabilities; offering users improved image quality compared to older models, more powerful sensors and lenses, as well as advanced features such as optical image stabilization (OIS), HDR+, and portrait mode.

Phones also come with apps such as Instagram, Lightroom Mobile and Google Photos, allowing users to edit and share their images instantly from anywhere with an internet connection!

Moreover, there are countless accessories on the market that can help photographers take even better shots or enhance their overall experience.

This includes clip-on phone lenses such as macro, wide angle, fish-eye and telephoto, allowing photographers to experiment with different perspectives or framing options during their shoots.

Chase Jarvis has always believed that everyone has access to an amazing camera in their pocket which is why he often encourages people to use what they already have before investing in expensive cameras or equipment.

Best of all, for those who do want more control over how they capture photos, there are plenty of affordable accessories on the market designed specifically for smartphones which allow users to take their photography game to the next level without breaking the bank!

All they need is some creativity and a bit of know-how and they’ll be able to really make the best use out of their device’s camera capabilities!

Is a DSLR or point-and-shoot better for travel?

I’d usually say always stay away from DSLRs when it comes to travel photography because of their size and weight. However, they do have many advantages over point-and-shoot compact cameras such as the ability to change lenses and more advantage shooting modes.

This is why mirrorless cameras are a great options; they are positioned in the middle of DSLRs and point-and-shoots in terms of size, weight and functionality.

But if it’s a straight shootout between DSLRs and point-and-shoots, and you don’t already have a dedicated travel camera that you’re upgrading from, I’d say stick to a point-and-shoot because of their size and weight savings. And, these days, they are excellent cameras that product top quality image quality!

However, if you’re looking for more control over your images, then a DSLR or mirrorless camera is likely the ideal choice as they offer users manual settings to adjust factors such as shutter speed and aperture .

DSLRs are also equipped with interchangeable lenses which allow photographers to switch out according to their needs. This makes them incredibly versatile and perfect for capturing a wide range of subjects from landscapes, wildlife, to even sports.

If you want a straight answer, I’d say stick with a point-and shoot over a DSLR, however, ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what type of user you are.

If you want more control over your shots, then a DSLR or mirrorless camera is likely the better option for travel; whereas if portability and ease-of-use are more important to you, then a point-and-shoot may be the way to go!

Whatever your choice though, always remember that your gear doesn’t determine how great photos will turn out.

It all comes down to skills and creativity.

Choosing the best camera for travel can be a daunting task, but with some research and knowledge of your own needs and wants you can make an informed decision.

Whether it’s a DSLR, point-and-shoot, smartphone or mirrorless camera, remember that, ultimately, quality photos come down to skills and creativity rather than the gear itself.

So take time to familiarise yourself with all the different cameras available on the market before making any final decisions.

With these tips in mind, you should have no problem finding the perfect camera for capturing stunning images during your travels!

I hope this article helped you in finding the perfect camera for your travels. If you have any questions or need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out, I’m always happy to help!

I’m a professional travel photographer, and I’ve been living the digital nomad lifestyle since 2016. I make money by working on client assignments, selling stock photography and helping other photographers by sharing my experiences on this website. I move around at my own pace (I hate fast-paced travel) and like to spend a few months getting to know each place I base myself in.

My writing and photos have been featured on industry leading websites such as Digital Photography School , Atlas Obscura and the world’s leading underwater photography resource The Underwater Photography Guide . I authored an eBook called “ Breaking Into Travel Photography: The complete guide to carving out a career in travel photography ” that has been published on Amazon. My stock images have also appeared in ads promoting destinations and companies that sometimes has been a surprise, even to me. But I guess that’s the nature of stock photography, you never know who will license them!

I’m always happy to connect, so feel free to reach out!

The 11 Best Travel Cameras

Whether you’re an amateur shutterbug or constantly honing your travel photography skills, these excellent options make finding the right camera for you a snap..

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The Fujifilm X-T4 is an excellent mirrorless camera for travelers.

Courtesy of Fujifilm

Unless you’re a professional photographer or an obsessed hobbyist who loves researching features and specifications, choosing the right travel camera can be an overwhelming process. There is no “one size fits all”; the way you snap pictures is as personal as the way you pack your suitcase .

If you’re a carry-on-only type of person and just whip out your camera to remember certain moments, you’ll want something small and intuitive, like a point-and-shoot camera. But if you travel in order to take pictures, you’ll want something that gives you more creative control over your shots, and the extra weight of a DSLR camera with interchangeable lenses will be worth it. In some cases, your iPhone or Google Pixel camera might be all you need.

If you’re not sure where to start, our guide to the best cameras for travel will help you find the perfect one for you, whether you’re planning for your next safari or simply want to capture the sunset on a weekend hike.

What to look for in a travel camera

To find the right camera for you, first consider the type of traveler you are and the type of photography you’re interested in. Once you understand your needs, you’ll be able to better assess what features you value and which you don’t. Here are a few to consider:

Are you an active traveler who needs a compact camera that won’t take up much space in a daypack or backpack? Or do you tend to travel with a checked bag that can accommodate a bigger camera? Larger cameras, like DSLRs or mirrorless cameras with lens kits might be bulkier, but they’re also harder to leave behind at a train station than a small, inconspicuous point and shoot.

Along with size, the weight of a camera is one of the most important considerations for travelers, and not just because airlines are increasingly strict about weight limits. A heavy DSLR means more bells and whistles to play with, but lugging one around on a day of sightseeing and spending hours holding it up while you shoot pictures can take a toll on your neck, shoulders, back, and arms.

Capabilities

Generally, cameras with sensors that can capture more pixels (MPs, or megapixels) produce images with better resolution (though there are other factors that can complicate the issue ). But if you’re mostly posting your pictures to Instagram, you don’t need to capture the large, high-quality pictures that top-of-the-line cameras produce. If you enjoy wildlife photography, you might want a camera that shoots fast (around 30 frames per second, or fps). And if you love street photography in marketplaces and other low-light areas, you’ll want a lens that works at low f-stop numbers, because you’ll want that wide aperature to let in as much light as possible when there isn’t much available. And if you crave a lot of creative control, it’ll probably be worth it to you to invest in a camera with manual settings, interchangeable lenses for multiple focal lengths (that is, ability to zoom in), and excellent resolution. Additionally consider whether you’re a photo-only type of person or if you want the option of shooting video.

The way the dials, buttons, screen, and viewfinder of a camera are laid out actually affects how much you enjoy using it. Some setups are just awkward. The best way to figure out if you like the way a camera is set up is to go into a store and test it out.

Battery life

A small consideration but an important one nonetheless, battery life can make or break your travel photography experience. It’s frustrating to bring a camera halfway around the world, only to have it die two hours into your day.

Accessories

Aside from optional accessories—padded bags, straps, and tripods —you may have to invest in (and tote around) other accessories to use the camera; these include additional lenses for your DSLR, backup storage options, and battery packs.

Photography can be an expensive hobby. But the most expensive camera isn’t always the best camera for you. Camera companies release updated versions of popular lines every few years, and the newest, most advanced models with cutting-edge technology will always be expensive; you can usually save a few hundred dollars but still get many of the same features and comparable quality if you opt for the previous model.

What are the different types of travel cameras?

While there many different styles and configurations of camera, the main types of travel cameras include point and shoots, bridge cameras, mirrorless, DSLRs, and action cameras.

Point and shoot

Unless you’re an enthusiastic hobbyist or a professional, a point-and-shoot camera is probably going to suit your purposes perfectly. They are generally small, produce good pictures, and are easy to use—you don’t need to have in-depth knowledge of f-stops, ISO, and file types. You simply point it at your object, click the shutter button, and voila! Picture captured. The trade-off is that you don’t have a lot of control over the final image—these cameras are made for auto mode and often lack advanced manual controls, they only allow you to zoom in so much, and you can’t switch out the lenses. And they generally don’t perform well in low-light situations, though most have a built-in flash.

You likely won’t hear about bridge cameras as often as you will the other cameras on this list. These types of cameras offer more manual control than point-and-shoot options as well as powerful zoom lenses. However, the lens is permanently attached to the body. They’re a good choice for photographers who don’t want to mess around with different lenses but do want to play with more controls than a point-and-shoot camera has.

Think of mirrorless cameras as the next step toward DSLRs. They produce higher quality photos than point and shoots, though not quite as high quality as DSLRs. However, weighing in around 1.5 pounds, they are compact cameras, much smaller and lighter than their more advanced cousins. (The name “mirrorless” comes from the way they capture images—DSLRs project the image through the viewfinder using a mirror, which flips away when you press the shutter button to expose the sensor that actually captures the image. Mirrorless cameras do away with the mirror, making the whole process digital and the camera itself much lighter.) They also feature the manual controls that allow you to adjust exposure, shutter speed, depth of field, and more, and you can swap out lenses. These are a good pick if you’re interested in the art of photography but don’t want to dive into the deep end yet. Many pros also use mirrorless cameras as backups.

Not only does DSLR (digital single lens reflex) deliver high-quality photos with great resolution, but it is also built to last. These cameras are all about versatility. They have the manual functions that allow you a huge amount of creative control over the resulting photo. They’re also made to be used with a number of different lenses. And many of the new models can produce incredible video as well. DSLRs even capture RAW files, which save more information and allow you more control when you’re editing images, as well as the compressed JPEG files. The trade-off, however, is that they’re heavier, bigger, and more expensive than other cameras. And you’ll probably find yourself needing to invest in more accessories, such as external flashes, bounce cards, remote shutter releases, and microphones, than you would for any other type of camera.

Action cameras

Some travelers may be less interested in the amount of artistic control they have over the pictures they take and instead are looking for a rugged camera that will survive a series of extreme adventures. These sorts of cameras should be durable, waterproof, dustproof, and able to withstand long drops. And many don’t even look like traditional cameras—think of GoPros, which bear no resemblance to any of the other cameras on this list; they are extremely hardy and meant to be mounted on helmets, surfboards, selfie sticks, and more, allowing the user a hands-free experience.

The best cameras for travel

Sony RX100 VII ($1,298)
Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II ($629)
Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ1000 ($798)
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III ($549)
Fujifilm X-T4 ($1,699)
Sony a7R III ($2,298)
Leica Q2 ($4,995)
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 ($599)
Nikon D850 ($2,997)
GoPro Hero8 ($300)
Olympus Tough TG-6 ($449)

The best point-and-shoot cameras for travel

The Sony RX100 VII is far more sophisticated than your standard point and shoot.

Courtesy of Sony

Sony RX100 VII

Buy now: $1,298, bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 10.7 ounces
Size: 4 inches by 2.3 inches by 1.7 inches

Sony’s RX100 line has long been at the top of the list of quality point and shoots, and the new, sleek VII model packs a professional punch for such a small body. It has a versatile 24–200 mm zoom range, a powerful one-inch, 20.1 megapixel sensor, and shoots sharp images at almost any setting. It also records RAW images and features Wi-Fi, which is great for transferring photos from the camera to a phone or computer to quickly post to social media. Its three-inch touch screen can rotate a full 180 degrees, which is great for solo travelers trying to take selfies. The RX100 VII also records 4k (a measure of resolution) video—the kind of quality that vloggers look for. The best part? The VII’s autofocus technology rivals that of Sony cameras with interchangeable lenses; it allows users to track moving subjects and it also detects faces and eyes for both humans and animals. The RX100 line also has a good range of underwater housings for divers.

The pocketable Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II will barely take up space in your carry-on..

Courtesy of Canon

Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II

Buy now: $629, bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 10.4 ounces
Size: 4.15 inches by 2.4 inches by 1.65 inches

The Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II is small enough to fit in a jacket pocket, but with its one-inch, 20.1 megapixel sensor captures clear photos even in low-light situations. Give it a try in those notoriously hard-to-capture twilight hours, during evening strolls and end-of-the-day cocktails. The control rings make satisfying clicky noises, and the zoom lens has a solid 24–100 mm focal length range. The three-inch LCD screen is tiltable, which helps with overhead or low-level photography, and like the Sony RX100 VII, Wi-Fi capabilities allow you to easily transfer images, which can save in both RAW and JPEG formats. The autofocus is responsive but can’t focus continuously (so you can’t track subjects while shooting in burst mode). It even shoots video at an admirable 1920 x 1080 resolution. The only drawback to the G7X’s slim body is that it lacks a viewfinder, though for some people, using a viewfinder with a camera this small is awkward anyway.

The best bridge camera for travel

The Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ1000 II looks like a DSLR, but you won’t have to worry about interchangeable lenses.

Courtesy of Panasonic

Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ1000 II

Buy now: $798 (was $898), bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 28.5 ounces
Size: 5.35 inches by 3.82 inches by 5.2 inches

If the zoom on a point and shoot just isn’t enough for you to capture the banks of the Bosphorus from a boat, the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ1000 II’s 25–400 mm long-range zoom on its fixed lens might be exactly what you’re looking for. The one-inch, 20.1 megapixel sensor captures high-resolution photos in most situations, and an internal image stabilizer works on five axes to help keep your framing consistent even when zoomed all the way out. The camera also records 4k video and features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections and a three-inch articulating LCD screen that flips out 180 degrees to the side and tilts 270 degrees. Plus its ergonomic design fits comfortably into most hands and makes this camera feel more like an interchangeable lens camera than a point and shoot.

The best mirrorless cameras for travel

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is smaller and lighter than most mirrorless cameras, making it perfect for travelers who pack light.

Courtesy of Olympus

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III

Buy now: $549 (body only), bhphotovideo.com
Weight: 14.5 ounces (body only)
Size: 4.8 inches by 3.3 inches by 1.9 inches (body only)

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is a perfect entry-level mirrorless camera—it’s affordable, but still has the DSLR styling and sophisticated technology that makes it a step up from most entry-level mirrorless models. It holds its own with the fancy features that have become standard, such as five-axis stabilization, three-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, and 4k video recording. The solid 16.1-megapixel sensor and the processor produce sharp photos. An electronic shutter function makes for faster shutter speeds and can also be used in silent mode, making your clicking less conspicuous in museums or temple courtyards. The E-M10 Mark III is a micro four thirds camera—meaning it’s smaller than usual and lighter too—and stacks its large, easy-to-use dials on the top of the body without feeling cramped. It also has a built-in flash. The electronic viewfinder has a great 1.23 magnification, which is helpful when you’re using it for long periods of time.

The Fujifilm X-T4 captures beautiful pictures and video thanks to its 26.1MP sensor and advanced image stabilization.

Fujifilm X-T4

Buy now: $1,699 (body only), bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 21.4 ounces (body only)
Size: 5.3 inches by 3.7 inches by 2.5 inches (body only)

With the X-T4, released in February 2020, Fujifilm took the already exceptional X-T3 and made it better. The same 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor captures beautiful quality pictures, and the X-T4 also shoots 4k and HD video better than most cameras on the market. But the new model has a much better battery life, snapping around 500 shots on a charge as opposed to the X-T3’s 390. The X-T4 also features in-body image stabilization that uses magnetic force as well as the camera structure to absorb shock. It also boasts fast shutter speeds (30 fps in burst mode), Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, and it is weather sealed, keeping dust and dirt particles kicked up by the wind—whether you’re in Tierra del Fuego or Chicago—out of the camera body. Like many Fujifilm cameras, the X-T4 has a retro look and mimics the setup of a classic 35 mm film SLR, with the aperture rings on the lenses.

If you’re hesitant to spring for the newest and priciest model, rest assured that X-T line has something for every level of photographer. The last model, the X-T3 ($1,499, bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com ), lags behind in terms of battery life, but it has a lot of the same features and capabilities as the X-T4 and a lower price tag. The X-T30 ($899, bhphotovideo.com , amazon.com ) is another fan favorite, ditching the weatherproofing and a few buttons to knock off another $500 or so.

The Sony a7R III is known for its excellent electronic viewfinder and crisp resolution.

Sony a7R III

Buy now: $2,298 (was $2,798) (body only), bhphotovideo.com
Weight: 25.9 ounces (body only)
Size: 5.12 inches by 3.15 inches by 3.62 inches (body only)

The aR7 III isn’t the newest kid on the block in Sony’s high-end mirrorless AR7 series, but the aR7 IV ($2,998, bhphotovideo.com , amazon.com ), its pride and joy, costs considerably more and is really aimed at professionals. Of course, if you want to spring for the aR7 IV’s whopping 61-megapixel sensor, which surpasses that of even some full-frame DSLRs, no one will be checking your credentials.

But the a7R III is still an incredibly powerful camera with a huge 42.4-megapixel sensor and noticeably fast shutter speeds and autofocus capabilities. It also shoots fast (30 fps) 4k video, has five-axis stabilization, and its long-lasting battery can run about 600 shoots. One feature that makes the aR7 III a joy to work with is the electronic viewfinder, which produces bright, clear views and refreshes at lightning speed, with none of the lag that others experience. The aR7 isn’t an outstanding performer at low lights, struggling a bit below one-fourth second shutter speeds, but the electronic viewfinder plus weather-sealing makes this a great pick for landscape photographers.

You’ll find yourself more immersed in your environment when shooting with the Leica Q2.

Courtesy of Leica

Buy now: $4,995, bhphotovideo.com ; $5,895, amazon.com
Weight: 23.2 ounces (body only)
Size: 5 inches by 3.76 inches by 2.9 inches (body only)

Leicas are the Bugattis of cameras—ultra high end, super stylish, and exquisitely crafted. No, the Q2 isn’t the type of travel camera you’d toss in a backpack or casually sling over a shoulder, but if you dream of strolling through the Marais with a retro-cool Leica in hand, the Q2 is the one you want. The brand’s reputation for extremely high-quality images with unparalleled color fidelity is well earned, and the Q2 boasts an incredible 47.3 megapixel full-frame sensor. It is also weathersealed, which is always a plus for a traveler, can capture 4k video, and is priced on the lower end of the scale, relative to other Leica models.

What makes the Q2 a good pick for the curious traveler is its fixed 28 mm f1.70 lens and manual focus. Yes, really. While many photographers would argue that the fixed lens is a drawback, it actually forces you to get more involved with the things you shoot. You can’t stay on the fringes of the crowds at Boudhanath Stupa in Nepal, zooming in on interesting characters. You have to join the fray and get almost uncomfortably close to the subjects you want to capture (though, remember to be respectful and ask permission when doing so). Similarly, the manual focus—a feature that all Leicas have—keeps you more in the moment, forcing you to slow down and engage with the scene in front of you. The Q2 does make some concessions—it has macro focusing and 35 mm, 50 mm, and 75 mm crops so you can simulate different zoom lengths. And unlike other Leica cameras, the Q2 also has autofocus, and a quick one at that, which travelers will find useful in busy street scenes.

The best DSLR cameras for travel

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a great pick for amateur travel photographers looking to get a little more serious about their hobby.

Canon EOS Rebel SL3

Buy now: $599 (body only), bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 15.84 ounces (body only)
Size: 4.8 inches by 3.7 inches by 2.8 inches (body only)

With the EOS Rebel SL3, Canon took one of its best ultra-compact entry-level DSLRs and made it better. Since 2017, the Canon EOS Rebel T7i, which is now discontinued, was considered one of the best DSLRs for beginners on the market, offering approachable features and imaging technology inherited from Canon’s previous cameras aimed at professionals; the SL3, released last year, is almost identical and shares just about all the important features: Both cameras offer a resolution of 24 megapixels and have the same sensor (the APS-C). Both are compatible with Canon’s comprehensive system of lenses—one of the largest lineups available—which gives new and seasoned photographers a lot of room to play.

The T7i is a little faster than the SL3, but the slightly slimmer and lighter SL3, our pick for a better travel camera, has a much longer battery life, clicking away through 1,070 photos as opposed to the T7i’s 600. And unlike its predecessor, the SL3 can shoot 4k video, which more and more travel photographers consider the standard. To top it all off, the SL3 is about 20 percent cheaper.

The Nikon D850 blurs the line between a professional camera and one meant for hobbyists.

Courtesy of Nikon

Buy now: $2,997 (body only), bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 26.63 ounces (body only)
Size: 5.7 inches by 4.9 inches by 3.1 inches (body only)

Nikon’s D850 was released in September of 2017, but the powerhouse DSLR is still a favorite for prosumers, or photographers who straddle the consumer and professional worlds. The D850’s 45.7-megapixel sensor produces crisp photos with beautiful resolution, and it is backside illuminated: The parts of the sensor that capture light are closer to the surface, resulting in sharper pixels at the edges of the image. It also tolerates more light in bright conditions and performs well in low-light conditions too. Nikon is known for its fast, accurate focusing, and the autofocusing on the D850 would thrill any sports photographer. Another great feature of the D850 is its viewfinder, which, with its 0.75x magnification, gives the user a wonderfully realistic view. It also shoots 4k video, and its 3.2-inch touch screen is larger than that of most other cameras.

True, the D850 is a hefty model at 26.63 ounces (about two pounds), but sometimes it’s OK to throw a little weight around, especially if you’re doing the kind of tripod-friendly wildlife or cityscape photography that this camera does so well.

The best action cameras for travel

Adventure travelers no longer need fancy frames to attach the GoPro Hero8 to their gear.

Courtesy of GoPro

GoPro Hero8

Buy now: $300, gopro.com ; $349, bhphotovideo.com ; $299, amazon.com
Weight: 4.1 ounces
Size: 2.61 inches by 1.91 inches by 1.1 inches

The newest member of the GoPro family proves that you don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie to own a GoPro. One of the major upgrades that makes the slimmer Hero8 much more approachable is that it doesn’t require extra hardware to attach it to things like grips, dashboards, and helmets; previous models needed the help of a frame, but the Hero8’s attachments are built into its body. But that’s not to say the Hero8 is any less rugged than other GoPros—it’s still waterproof to 33 feet, and the new model has a Gorilla Glass lens that GoPro claims is twice as impact-resistant as previous lenses.

Rugged features aside, the Hero8 has photo-capturing capabilities that any travel photographer would appreciate: The super-smooth image stabilization obliterates the need for stabilizing accessories, eliminating most of the bounce from footsteps in slow motion. There’s also a touch screen with four adjustment buttons, four digital lenses with different aspect ratios, and the Hero8 can shoot vertically for those who post mostly to Instagram Stories or TikTok. The sensor captures 12 megapixel stills and 4k video. It even supports livestreaming to Facebook, though at a slightly lower 1080/240 resolution. The Night-Lapse function lets you to capture beautiful 4k timelapses of the night sky or a bioluminescent ocean.

The Olympus Tough TG-6 is an action camera made to take just about anything you throw at it.

Olympus Tough TG-6

Buy now: $449, bhphotovideo.com ; $399, amazon.com
Weight: 8.92 ounces
Size: 4.45 inches by 2.6 inches by 1.26 inches

Snorkelers, river rafters, and anyone who refuses to let a little rain dampen a trip, this one’s for you. Technically, the Olympus Tough TG-6 is a point and shoot, but the pocketable waterproof camera was built for adventure—a sort of a middle ground between a traditional point and shoot and a GoPro. Not only is it waterproof up to 50 feet, but it’s also crushproof (up to 100 kilograms of force) and freezeproof (down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit). Yet the 12-megapixel sensor still delivers beautiful photographs in both RAW and JPEG formats, and the TG-6 can also shoot 4k video.

Like all waterproof cameras, the TG-6 keeps its lens safely inside the body, and its 25–100 mm zoom range doesn’t rival that of some of the other point and shoots on this list. However, its macro shooting capabilities are superior to others in the class. Botany enthusiasts will find this useful for snapping up-close shots of rain forest flora without worrying about wet conditions. It performs decently in low-light conditions, but not if you’re zoomed in. And you might want to pack an extra battery; this one won’t break any records.

>>Next: The Best Tripod for Travelers Is Super Compact and Not Dorky at All

Watch CBS News

The 6 best waterproof cameras for vacations, vlogging and more

By Jason R. Rich

Edited By Leslie Gornstein

Updated on: August 21, 2024 / 3:55 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

The 6 best waterproof camera for vacations, vlogging and more

Not every camera can handle every situation. Maybe you love to shoot underwater, or capture the action with a camera strapped to your body or equipment. It's in these situations when a waterproof camera will come in handy.

All of the cameras featured in this roundup are waterproof. Some are versatile action cameras , while others are portable and durable point-and-shoot cameras. All are easy to operate and can generate clear and eye-catching photos and video.

Best waterproof camera : GoPro Hero 12 Black

Best budget waterproof camera : akaso brave 8, best point-and-shoot waterproof camera : om system touch tg-7, best ultra-small waterproof camera : gopro hero 11 black mini, best waterproof camera for vacations : sony rxo 11.

Best waterproof camera for content creation : Insta360 Ace Pro

Yes, if you own a more smartphone, like the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max , Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or new Google Pixel Pro 9 XL , these are all waterproof and offer powerful cams. Your smartphone shoots high-definition still images and high-resolution video in a wide range of settings and situations.

But if you're looking for a truly action-friendly option with features that go way being smartphones, read on.

Best waterproof cameras for 2024

Our in-house team of photography experts has curated this roundup of the best waterproof cameras out there. If you want to check out exactly what your phone can do in water first, be sure to check out our coverage of the best cell phones of 2024 , best smartphones with AI in 2024 and the best Android phones for 2024 .

Out of all the action cameras out there, the GoPro Hero 12 Black offers the most flexibility in terms of shooting modes. And because GoPro has the largest ecosystem of camera upgrades, accessories and apps, it captures still photos or video from a first- or third-person perspective in almost any type of location. It can also live stream and capture subjects from unique angles.

For the best results with the Hero 12 Black, we strongly recommend pairing it with the right accessories. There's the Media Mod ($80) , which features an upgraded multidirectional mic and foam mic cover, ideal for content creators and live streamers. The Display Mod ($75) features a two-inch, front-facing, flip-up display that's larger than the one built into the camera.

The Light Mod ($50) includes a compact, waterproof and powerful LED light that offers up to 200 lumens of brightness. There's also the Max Lens Mod ($70) that fits over the existing lens to offer a wider field of view with better perspective and depth of field. And the Max Lens 2.0 Mod expands the camera's field of view up to 177 degrees at 4K 60fps and gives you the addition of Max Wide, Max SuperView and Max HyperView settings.

But that's just the beginning. There are dozens of mounts for the Hero 12 Black. Think tabletop tripods, camera handles, boom bars, head straps, bike mounts, chest mounts and even mounts that attach the camera to your dog, surfboard, vehicle dashboard or wrist.

GoPro also offers a powerful and free mobile app for viewing, editing and sharing still photos or video. With an optional subscription, you get unlimited cloud storage and auto uploads from the camera.

We love the user-friendly controls on the GoPro Hero 12 Black. Pros can switch to an advanced setting for better control over modes and options. You can also shoot video using HDR (high dynamic range) to improve color authenticity and detail. HDR mode works with multiple 4K and 5.3K resolution options and aspect ratios (including 5.3K resolution at a 16:9 aspect ratio, at 30fps). Plus, the GoPro Hero 12 captures even smoother video than the Hero 11 when the camera is in motion.

Be sure to check out our hands-on review of the GoPro Hero 12 Black to see how well the camera performed during our testing.

Still image resolution : 48MP | Max. video resolution : 4K (60 fps) | Waterproof rating : 33 feet, IPX8 | Dimensions : 2.48 x 1.44 x 1.93 inches | Weight : 4 ounces | Best for : Action and travel photography | Optional accessories : Akaso offers a handful of accessories to expand the camera's capabilities and durability

The Akaso Brave 8 is an action camera that functions a lot like the GoPro Hero 12 Pro. But it's a bit less expensive. Plus, it comes with a handful of mounts and accessories that GoPro typically charges extra for.

What the Akaso Brave 8 lacks is support from the entire GoPro eco-system. This includes more than 60 genuine camera accessories, advanced photo and video editing mobile apps and software applications, and its own online content storage service.

We like the Bravo 8 as a still-image camera because it offers higher resolution then the GoPro Hero 12 Black (48 megapixels versus 27MP). But when it comes to shooting video, this camera offers a maximum of 4K resolution (60 fps). For most people, 4K resolution video is more than enough.

Another standout feature is that the camera supports a super wide, wide, portrait, narrow and a multi-angle field of view across its shooting modes. You also get AI-driven face metering to ensure that the face that's in the frame always gets the best exposure. This action camera comes with two rechargeable batteries, along with an accessories kit. And right now, Amazon is offering a $50 instant coupon, so you'll pay just $240 for the camera.

Very few point-and-shoot cameras are waterproof and rugged, like the OM System Touch TG-7. If you're not familiar with the OM System brand, it's the new name for Olympus cameras.

Designed to provide all of the built-in features you need to capture great photos or video content -- including a three-inch, full-color viewfinder display on the back -- the TG-7 offers an integrated flash and a lens with 4x optical zoom. The lens also allows for macro photography and is able to focus on objects as close as 0.39 inches away.

What allows this camera to stand out is that it's waterproof, works in extreme temperatures and is shock-resistant. It functions perfectly in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit and can operate underwater down to a depth of 49 feet. There's an optional underwater housing accessory if you want to take this camera deeper when scuba diving. And the camera is crushproof, too. It can withstand loads up to 220 pounds.

Not only does the camera comfortably fit in the photographer's hands, all of the controls are easily accessible and intuitive. This means you can focus more on what's happening around you, instead of having to tinker with controls to capture clear images or video.

Once you've captured 12MP still images or 4K resolution video, the camera's integrated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities make it easy to wirelessly transfer the content from the camera to your mobile device or computer. In addition to providing a handful of shooting modes for on-land use, you get several extra modes that can enhance your underwater shooting by controlling things like color correction.

Still image resolution : 24.7MP | Max. video resolution : 5.3K (60 fps) | Waterproof rating : 33 feet | Dimensions : 2.06 x 2.02 x 1.5 inches | Weight : 4.69 ounces | Best for : Capturing action content with the camera attached to your body or equipment | Optional accessories : GoPro has a vast ecosystem of accessories, mounts and mods

As its name suggests, the GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini is a smaller, scaled down version of the Hero 12 Black camera. This model does not offer either a front or back-facing display. It's designed to be remotely controlled from a mobile device using the GoPro app. More than a dozen voice commands are also supported.

Another unique feature is that this camera has two built-in mounting fingers that pop out from the camera body (one on the back and one on the bottom of the camera). This gives you additional options when connecting the camera to a mount and then setting the camera at an optimal angle.

The Mini has fewer shooting modes than the Hero 12 Black and can only capture still images from video footage that's already been shot. That said, it can shoot video at up to 5.3K (60fps) resolution. It's also just as durable as the Hero 12 Black and is compatible with more than 40 GoPro mods, mods, and accessories, in addition to hundreds of third-party accessories.

The Mini offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. It comes bundled with a curved adhesive mount, mounting buckle, USB Type-C cable, thumb screw and case. A required microSD memory card is sold separately. This camera is best suited to someone who will be wearing the camera, or mounting it on a moving object, and controlling it remotely.

The Sony RXO 11 is a hybrid between a point-and-shoot camera and action camera, which means it gives you a tremendous amount of versatility and creative shooting options. The body of the camera is tiny and easily fits in the palm of a hand. It's also very durable and waterproof.

Built into the camera is a 24-millimeter, fixed, wide-angle F4 Zeiss T lens, which is able to capture high-resolution and very clear images. The camera's rechargeable battery lasts for up to 240 still, 15MP shots, or allow you to take up to 60 minutes of continuously shot 4K video.

The viewfinder is an LCD on the back of the camera that can tilt up 180 degrees or down 90 degrees. This makes it particularly useful for shooting selfies or vlogging. The camera is powered using a 1-inch stacked, back illuminated Exmor R5 image sensor. Sony's proprietary BIONZ X image powers conversion of light captured by the sensor, generating photos and movies with natural detail, realism, richer tonal gradations and low noise.

We love this camera because it's light enough to serve as a travel camera, plus it's chock full of useful features and easy shooting modes. If you plan to use the camera for video, a microphone can be connected to enhance sound quality.

Best waterproof camera for vlogging and content creation : Insta360 Ace Pro

Still image resolution : 48MP | Max. video resolution : 8K (24fps) | Waterproof rating : 10 meters | Dimensions : 2.83 x 2.05 x 1.52 inches | Weight : 6.34 ounces | Best for : Vacation photography, action photography, vlogging | Optional accessories : Insta360 offers a handful of accessories to expand the camera's capabilities and durability

Ideal for vacationers, vloggers and outdoor adventurers alike, the Insta360 Ace Pro offers a ton of features packed into a compact camera that's durable and waterproof. The 2.4-inch, full-color touchscreen flips upward, so you can see what you're shooting regardless of which direction the camera is facing.

We also like the camera's convenient magnetic mounting system, and that you can remotely control the camera using a mobile app, voice commands or hand gestures -- or use the controls on the camera itself. Plus, the 1/1.3-inch sensor is able to capture stunning still images and video content in almost any situation.

The camera offers a variety of shooting modes that cater to different types of scenarios. And once you've captured your content, the Insta360 mobile app uses artificial intelligence to enhance it, and then edit it for you in seconds. Ultimately, you can shoot, preview, edit and then share your creations from virtually anywhere using your smartphone. This Insta360 camera also has an impressive collection of optional accessories.

Out of all the action cameras we've tested, this is one of the very few that allows you to shoot video at up to 8K (24fps) resolution using a 16:9 aspect ratio. However, a variety of other resolutions, from 1080p (up to 240fps) to 4K (up to 60fps) are available. The camera is easy to use and extremely versatile. And battery life is up to 100 minutes of continuous shooting.

Jason R. Rich ( www.JasonRich.com ) is an internationally recognized consumer technology expert with more than 30 years' writing experience. He's also an accomplished author and photographer. One of his most recently published books, The Remote Worker's Handbook: How to Effectively Work From Anywhere ($24.99, Entrepreneur Books) is now available from Amazon and wherever books are sold.

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The 25 best Amazon tech gadgets you need for travel

These travel gadgets from Amazon provide convenience, and comfort when you’re on the road, including brands like Apple, JBL and more.

Your phone’s battery is completely drained. Your luggage was sent to the wrong airport and now your flight is delayed.These sound like nightmares, but they can be a reality when you’re traveling. Mishaps are simply a part of the adventure, but you can be prepared with the help of these travel tech gadgets .

Whether you’re traveling a few hours away or across the globe, there are travel gadgets that can help make your trip easier, safer and (mostly) headache-free. We spoke to a travel expert, tried a few products ourselves and sorted through hundreds of top-rated products on Amazon to find the best tech to pack for your next trip.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best travel tech essentials | The best travel tech gadgets on Amazon | Why trust NBC Select?

Selected. Our top picks

How we picked the best travel tech essentials

To figure out what types of travel tech are worth bringing along on your next trip — and which gadgets to skip — I spoke to several experts who have spent years traveling all around the world. Here’s what they recommended keeping in mind:

Size: As you consider travel gadgets, it’s important to evaluate their size and weight, especially if you have limited space in your carry-on or suitcase . If you’re planning to bring something oversized, be sure it’s worth the real estate in your bag. For instance, cameras are a popular item to bring while traveling, but many experts suggest leaving them behind because they’re bulky: “Cell phone cameras are so advanced now that you can take phenomenal photos on your mobile,” says Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel company Black Tomato .
Convenience : Whether you’re taking a car, plane, train or bus, the best travel tech gadgets provide convenience when you’re on the road, ensuring you’re comfortable and prepared for common travel issues. Almost all of the experts I spoke to recommended a power bank as their top travel accessory. Marchant explains that these devices are a convenient way to charge electronics in airports, on airplanes (or other modes of transportation) and while exploring your destination.
Peace of mind: The right technology can also help reduce stress while you travel, allowing you to make the most of the experience. For this reason, our experts highly recommend devices like Bluetooth trackers, personal safety devices and noise-canceling headphones. “I always put AirTags in every piece of checked luggage, especially if making multiple transfers, as it can greatly save headaches and stress,” explains Marchant.

select Tired of lugging around a clunky suitcase? Here are the best lightweight luggage options

The best travel tech gadgets on amazon to buy.

Using the guidance of travel experts, I sorted through hundreds of popular travel tech gadgets on Amazon. The following are best-selling devices that are highly rated by thousands of shoppers, and you may want to grab a few of them for your next trip.

Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

Long battery life
Bluetooth connectivity
Takes a bit of time to pair

4.4-star average rating from over 15,070 reviews

This wireless audio transmitter plugs into the in-flight entertainment system on airplanes and sends the audio directly to wireless Bluetooth headphones. This allows you to listen to movies or other content without being tethered to the seat by a cord. The transmitter can also be used on gym equipment, televisions or gaming devices, and it lasts for up to 20 hours per charge, according to the brand.

Apple AirTag

Water and dust resistant
Built-in speaker
Replaceable battery
Only compatible with Apple

4.7-star average rating from over 126,700 reviews

For iPhone users, AirTags are an inexpensive way to keep tabs on your luggage, keys or other belongings while traveling. The location of these Bluetooth-powered trackers can be monitored through the Find My app. If the AirTag is within Bluetooth range of your phone, its Precision Finding feature will point you toward it, or you can see its location on a map if you’re further away.

Fyy Travel Cable Organizer

Fyy Electronics Organizer

Compact design
Water resistant
Multiple pockets
Nothing to note at this time

4.5-star average rating from over 13,100 reviews

You can keep electronics and all their accessories neatly organized with this travel pouch. It comes in 11 colors, and there are two compartments inside with various pockets to store charging cables, power banks and more. The cable organizer is compact enough to put in a carry-on or handbag, and the exterior is water-resistant to protect its contents, according to the brand.

Conair Handheld Travel Garment Steamer

Adjustable steam head

4.3-star average rating from over 19,000 reviews

It’s inevitable that your clothing will get a bit wrinkly while traveling, but you can remove creases with this top-rated travel garment steamer . It heats up in less than a minute, and its high-velocity steam will help smooth wrinkles on shirts, dresses, and other clothing — important if you’re traveling for work. It has an adjustable steam head that lets you hold it at any angle, and the device is even dual-voltage for international trips.

Kindle Paperwhite

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Great battery life
Storage capacity
Must have an Amazon account

4.7-star average rating from over 34,000 reviews

If you like to read while traveling, this popular e-reader is a worthwhile investment. It has a 16GB storage capacity, allowing you to download dozens of books, and the glare-free display is comfortable to read even in direct sunlight. It’s lightweight and more compact than your average paperback novel, and it can last for weeks on a single charge, so you don’t have to bring a charger with you, according to the brand.

Works with Apple and androids
Long lasting battery
Non-replaceable battery

4.5-star average rating from over 22,525 reviews

Android owners can attach these Bluetooth trackers to anything they want the exact location of: think keys, luggage or throw it inside of carry-on luggage. Using the Tile app, you can pinpoint the location of the tile from up to 250 feet away using the Tile app. You can also ping the tile, it will ring audible to help you locate it. The app will give a more approximate location on a map using the Tile Network. Like the Apple AirTag, the battery lasts up to a year, and is easily replaceable.

Philips One by Sonicare

Three month battery life
Built-in timer
Replaceable brush head
Needs AAA battery

4.5-star average rating from over 15,909 reviews

This electric toothbrush is designed specifically for traveling. According to the brand, the toothbrush can last for up to three months on a single AAA battery, and it comes with a case that protects the brush head. The brush uses micro-vibrations to help clean your teeth, and it has a built-in two-minute timer that vibrates at 30-second intervals to let you know when to move to a different area of your mouth.

iWalk Mini Portable Charger

iWalk Small Portable Charger

Can fully charge iPhone
Does not work with android

4.3-star average rating from over 822 reviews

Our experts highly recommend portable chargers for traveling, and this popular model is roughly the size of a tube of lipstick, making it compact enough to fit in a carry-on, purse or your pocket. It has a built-in lightning connector for iPhones, eliminating the need for a charging cable, and its 3350mAh capacity can charge most iPhone models one full time. However, it can’t be used with Android phones.

Yogasleep Rohm Portable White Noise Sound Machine

Portability
Charges via USB cable
Battery life

4.3-star average rating from over 13,379 reviews

If you have trouble sleeping in noisy hotels, this portable sound machine has three white noise audios to drown out background noise. The gadget is 3.5 inches in diameter and weighs a few ounces, allowing you to tuck it in your suitcase or backpack, and the brand says that it can be used overnight on a single charge. It charges via USB cable, and you will generally need to bring along the charger on multi-night trips.

Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle

32 ounce capacity
Filtered straw

4.6-star average rating from over 13,200 reviews

This reusable water bottle has a filter built into the straw, and it’s designed to reduce the taste of chlorine if you fill it up at a public water fountain, according to the brand. The stainless steel bottle holds 32 ounces of water, and the brand claims it can keep your beverage cold for up to a full day.

Hicober 3-in-1 Charging Station

3-in-1 Charger
Wireless charging
Slower charging speed

4.4-star average rating from over 6,717 reviews

If you travel with your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods, this 3-in-1 station, which we recently reviewed , is a convenient option for keeping your electronics charged. Instead of bringing individual chargers for each device, you can use this all-in-one station, which has designated spots for all three products. It also folds up into a compact flat form for easy storage.

Lightimetunnel Sleep Headphones

Decent audio

4.2-star average rating from over 18,694 reviews

You can block out the world around you while traveling with these Bluetooth-enabled sleep headphones. They’re shaped like a sleep mask , with light-blocking eye covers and the headband strap has comfortable flat speakers that will play audio for just you to hear. You can connect the device to your phone to play podcasts, music or just white noise, and the brand says that the headphones offer up to 12 hours of playtime per charge.

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Ease of use
Nothing of note at this time

4.7-star average rating from over 66,334 reviews

There are hefty fees for overweight luggage, so it’s always a good idea to weigh your baggage before you head to the airport. This luggage scale was a NBC Select Travel Awards accessory winner and it has a maximum capacity of 110 pounds, and you simply hook your bag onto the braided belt to check its weight. The digital scale is compact and lightweight, so you can tuck it into the pocket of your suitcase to take along on your trip.

MiiKare Airplane Phone Holder

Portable design
Easy to store in a bag

4.5-star average rating from over 7,150 reviews

You’ll be able to watch movies or play games comfortably on long flights with this airplane phone holder. It can be slotted into the back of an airplane seat or clamped to a tray table, and it’s compatible with most iPhone and Android phones. You can even rotate your phone 360 degrees while it’s in the stand for the optimal viewing angle.

Miroposs Rechargeable Travel Makeup Mirror

Adjustable brightness levels
10x magnification

4.4-star average rating from over 7,137 reviews

This lighted makeup mirror can help you get ready in dark hotel rooms. According to the brand, its rechargeable battery offers around 180 minutes of use per charge, and you can choose from three light settings with adjustable brightness levels. The mirror’s cover doubles as a stand, and you can adjust its angle to suit your needs. It also comes with a removable 10x magnifying mirror for more detailed tasks.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Can be used in 150 countries
Supports up to six devices

4.7-star average rating from over 14,982 reviews

Travel adapters are essential when you’re going to a different country, and this universal model includes four plugs — types A, C, G, and I — that can be used in more than 150 countries. The adapter has four USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and one AC socket, supporting up to six devices at once. Just keep in mind that it’s not a voltage adapter, so AC-powered devices need to support dual-voltage operation to work in certain locations.

Airglo Flex Flap Cell Phone Holder

Flexible design

4.5-star average rating from over 5,867 reviews

This cell phone holder has a metal core that’s wrapped in a faux leather cover, and you can bend it into any shape to hold up your phone or tablet. It can be used on tabletops, airplanes or even in the car, and the flat design will take up minimal space in your luggage.

Ntonpower Travel Power Strip

4-foot extension cord

4.7-star average rating from over 2,217 reviews

This power strip will give you more outlets to charge your electronics while on the road — it’s especially useful on cruise ships where outlets are limited. It has a 4-foot extension cord that wraps around the plug for compact storage, and the strip has two three-prong outlets, two two-prong outlets and three USB-A ports. There’s also extra space between the outlets to accommodate larger plugs, such as camera or laptop chargers.

Anker PowerCore Essential 20000

Large battery capacity
Easy storage
Two USB ports
No wireless charging

4.5-star average rating from over 103,812 reviews

You’ll be able to recharge electronics several times using this large-capacity power bank. Its 20,000mAh cell capacity can charge an iPhone 11 more than four times, and the brand says it charges iPhones 20% faster than other models. It has two USB ports to charge multiple devices at once, and there’s also a trickle charging mode for low-power gadgets.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Very versatile
Great noise cancellation
Not for android users

4.6-star average rating from over 4,285 reviews

These are some of the best wireless earbuds for the iPhone especially when it comes to travel. What makes them good is their pocketable size, great noise canceling and transparency modes, and easy pairing with all your Apple devices. Multiple NBC Select staff use these headphones for travel. While they don’t deliver as much noise canceling as over-ear headphones, they are much easier to pack.

Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

She's Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

4.5-star average rating from over 14,167 reviews

If you’re traveling alone, this personal safety alarm can provide peace of mind. It’s activated by pulling the top out of the base, and the device emits a loud siren and flashing strobe light to attract attention. It has a loop that can easily be attached to a keychain, and the alarm is reusable — just reinsert the top pin to turn it off.

Jisulife Portable Handheld Fan

Jisulife Mini Handheld 3-in-1 Fan, Flashlight & Power Bank

Good battery life
Two fan speeds
Built-in flashlight

4.6-star average rating from over 56,997 reviews

This portable fan is a useful accessory if you’re traveling during the summer. It folds up into a small form that can be tucked into any bag, and the brand says that it can run for up to 21 hours per charge, depending on the setting. It has two speeds, as well as a small built-in flashlight and it can also be used as a power bank to charge electronics in a pinch.

Braun MobileShave Electric Razor

Replaceable batteries
Easy to clean

4.1-star average rating from over 8,151 reviews

If you don’t want to take your everyday electric razor on a trip, this small model is designed for traveling. It has a swiveling cover to protect the blade in your bag and it’s powered by two AA batteries. The razor has a slide-out precision trimmer on one side, and you can wash it under running water for easy maintenance on the go.

Great audio

4.6-star average rating from over 249 reviews

The JBL Clip is one of our favorite portable Bluetooth speakers, thanks to its ingenious design and great audio quality. It’s designed to clip onto a bag using its integrated carabiner, and it has IP67 water- and dust-resistance. The speaker can play audio from your phone for up to 12 hours on a single charge, according to the brand, and it has a simple control panel that lets you start or stop the music or adjust the volume.

select Planning a short weekend trip? These bags can keep your travel essentials in one place.

Meet our experts.

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

Tom Marchant , co-founder of luxury travel company Black Tomato .

Why trust NBC Select?

Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and editor who has previously covered travel lifestyle stories, along with reviewing tech gadgets like the Apple AirTags.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and product reviewer who specializes in home and pet products. In her six years as a product tester, she's reviewed hundreds of items firsthand with the help of her cat and two dogs.

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Peak Design Travel Tripod (Carbon Fiber) Ultra-Portable, Stable and Compact Professional Camera Tripod

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The Travel Tripod brings you pro-level stability, load capacity, and deployed height, yet packs down to the diameter of a water bottle.
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Built-in and stowable mobile mount. Securely grips any phone/case .Low and inverted modes position your camera inches off the ground . Integrated load hanging hook . Nonslip, shock-absorbing feet .
Weather and impact-resistant materials. All parts are serviceable, cleanable, and replaceable. Includes a padded, weatherproof case. Guaranteed for life.

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Peak Design SL-BK-3 Slide, Camera Strap, Black

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Peak Design Mobile Everyday Case Compatible with iPhone 15 - Charcoal Gray

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Product Description

LIGHTNING-FAST DEPLOYMENT

Unique design allows quicker, easier setup/takedown.
Secure, fast, and ergonomic camera quick release.
Fast-locking, low profile leg cams.
Legs deploy in seconds, without having to flip over like traditional travel tripod legs.

ERGONOMIC BALL HEAD

Ultra-smooth, omnidirectional Compact Ball Head.
One single adjustment ring. No bulky or confusing knobs .
Simple locking ring for total security.

L Bracket compatible and arca swiss plates

PRO-LEVEL STABILITY & FEATURES

20lb weight capacity (optimized for a full-frame DSLR + telephoto lens).
Stability and vibration damping performance comparable, if not better, than most tripods in its class.
Low and inverted modes position your camera inches off the ground .
Integrated load hanging hook .

ONLY THOUGHTFUL DETAILS

Anchor attachment points for carrying with Peak Design straps (sold separately).
Built-in and stowable mobile mount.
No protruding knobs.

Lighting-fast

Ergonomic Ballhead

Pro-Level Features

Thoughtful Details

(Please note that the Bushing Removal Tool is supplied in a small, initially hard to find, internal pocket of the Weatherproof Soft Case.)

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Customer Review: Amazing tripod BUT...

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Customer reviews

5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 84% 9% 3% 2% 2% 84%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 84% 9% 3% 2% 2% 9%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 84% 9% 3% 2% 2% 3%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 84% 9% 3% 2% 2% 2%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 84% 9% 3% 2% 2% 2%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the portability, sturdiness, quality, appearance and ease of use of the camera tripod. For example, they mention it's very compact, light to travel with, sturdy and well built. Some appreciate the unusual design and configuration of the legs and center pole. That said, they say it'll be easy to set up and take down.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the tripod very compact and light to travel with. They say it fits in their saddlebag and is much lighter than other tripods. Customers also mention that the tripod extension post is skinny, but sturdy.

"...Again, there are sturdier tripods, but this is meant for travel and easy carry , and considering how light it is I'm very impressed with the..." Read more

"... This tripod is light . I didn't think I'd use the shoulder bag, but I almost always pack it in the bag. It deploys super fast...." Read more

"...Aside from it being as light as a croissant, it's so tiny that it makes storage a breeze. I've tried inside my bag and out...." Read more

"...The tripod extension post is skinny , but sturdy - I might not do a long exposure on a windy day with it fully extended, but it makes for very..." Read more

Customers like the sturdiness of the camera tripod. They say it's stable enough, well-crafted, and rigid. They also appreciate the way the camera clips in and feel secure.

"...Its sturdy and very adjustable. Stability is greatly enhanced by hanging your backpack or other item from the hook on the center post, but even..." Read more

"...The way the camera clips in feels secure . And it's easy to do, even in the dark. It's felt secure and mostly stable...." Read more

"...It's bold, it's strong, its stable . The cherry on top is how easy it is to use. Setting and resetting your position is so easy...." Read more

"...The tripod extension post is skinny, but sturdy - I might not do a long exposure on a windy day with it fully extended, but it makes for very..." Read more

Customers like the quality of the camera tripod. They mention it's an excellent piece of equipment, well-designed, and well-made. They also say there are no issues with flimsiness or sturdiness, and the ball head does not move. Overall, customers find it to be a very useful tripod and excellent for traveling.

"...It's bold, it's strong , its stable. The cherry on top is how easy it is to use. Setting and resetting your position is so easy...." Read more

"...While not perfect in all categories, it is the best all-around tripod for most landscape, macro, and home use cases. It however, is very pricey...." Read more

"...While the quality is definitely present , I'm not entirely convinced it justifies the cost. But what do I know? 5 star quality 4 star price is my take." Read more

"...The quality is insanely good and the fit and finish are on the level of the price tag...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the camera tripod. They mention that it has a well thought out design, unusual configuration of the legs and center pole, and small details elaborated. They also say it's sturdy, well crafted, and nimble.

"...That said, it was such a well designed tripod that I was willing to purchase a replacement immediately, which says a lot considering the price of..." Read more

"...It's bold , it's strong, its stable. The cherry on top is how easy it is to use. Setting and resetting your position is so easy...." Read more

" Very well produced . As sturdy as Manfrotto aluminum 3 section tripod (I would still use a remote or timed release in most cases, however)...." Read more

"...First off, the design is genius – compact like a water bottle when packed, yet it expands into a pro-level tripod that's stable enough for my full-..." Read more

Customers find the camera tripod easy to use. They say the binders for the legs make it easy and quick to set up and take down. They also say it's convenient, quick to attach, and allows for adapters to other mounting systems. Customers also mention that mounting their camera was easy, especially because they include a wrench set that tucks. They mention that setting and resetting their position is easy and takes minimal movement.

"...The way the camera clips in feels secure. And it's easy to do , even in the dark. It's felt secure and mostly stable...." Read more

"...It's bold, it's strong, its stable. The cherry on top is how easy it is to use . Setting and resetting your position is so easy...." Read more

"... mounting my camera was easy , especially because they include a wrench set that tucks away on the inside on any of the upper leg section...." Read more

"... Quick attach easily allows for adapters to other mounting systems...." Read more

Customers find the tripod versatile and suitable for travel shooting, hiking, and astrophotography. It's sturdy and adjustable, making it ideal for long exposure shots and astrophytography, and is perfect for photography.

"...In use the tripod is great . Its sturdy and very adjustable...." Read more

"...the Peak Design Travel Tripod is close to being the perfect travel tripod . Its compactness, stability, and innovative design make it a joy to use...." Read more

"...fiber tripod was an innovative design, compact, and well suited for travel photography ...." Read more

"...I gotta tell you, this is the epitome of travel tripods . It really is only about 3-1/2" diameter and maybe 15" long...." Read more

Customers find the adjustability of the camera tripod very good. They say it's sturdy, easy to adjust to the desired height, and has lots of flexibility. Some mention that the tripod fits their needs well and has multiple settings and an iPhone attachment.

"...It has a lot of adjustability , and I really like using it once I got comfortable with it. But I'm not sure it's quite as adjustable as my Sirui...." Read more

"...day with it fully extended, but it makes for very convenient, quick height adjustment for less extreme days...." Read more

"...the thinnest legs and hung my bag from the hook; and the ball head was easily adjusted to get the shot I wanted...." Read more

"...the most compact, sturdy, full size tripod I’ve ever used and it fits my needs well ...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the value of the camera tripod. Some mention it's worth the money, while others say it'll be expensive.

"...I couldn't be happier. This is well worth the money ." Read more

"...It's not cheap , but its worth the cost to me.First, it's important to understand what this thing really is...." Read more

"...'re serious about your travel photography, this tripod is definitely worth considering - especially if you catch it at a discount!" Read more

"...It is worth the higher cost to me...." Read more

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The Best Insulated Water Bottles of 2024

A woman drinking from a 32 ounce Hydro Flask Trail Series bottle

If you’re looking to purchase a water bottle for outdoor adventures, an insulated bottle should be high on your list. Insulated bottles are designed to keep cold liquids colder longer (and hot liquids hotter) and are usually higher quality and more durable than their plastic counterparts.

Plus, having a reusable water bottle is great for the environment. For this review, we looked at water bottles that have some form of insulation (whether stainless steel construction or otherwise) and a good-sealing cap or lid. And we evaluated each on factors like insulation, shape and volume, durability, and price. All told, we’ve sourced, filled, and drained more than 40 different water bottles since 2021, and pulled together the top 17 in our line-up today.

These bottles didn’t get off easy, either. Each vessel underwent our in-house testing regimen, which saw them all examined for timed ice retention, a leak test, as well as a quasi-scientific taste test. Safe to say, these bottles have been vetted, and to choose the best of the best, we ranked each bottle on features, feedback from our testing, and price.

For more information about insulated water bottles, check out our Buyer’s Guide , Comparison Chart , and Price & Value section at the end of this article. Otherwise, top off your bottle and scroll through our picks for the best insulated water bottles of 2024.

Editor’s Note: We updated this guide on August 26, 2024, with the addition of three new products: the CamelBak Podium Big Chill, our favorite insulated option for sports, the Lifestraw Go , our top filter bot tle, and the CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle.

Best Overall Insulated Water Bottle: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle
Best Budget Insulated Water Bottle: RTIC Vacuum Insulated Bottle
Best Insulated Water Bottle for Driving: Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler
Most Durable Insulated Water Bottle: YETI Rambler Chug Water Bottle
Best Insulated Can Cooler: YETI Rambler Colster
Best Insulated Growler: MiiR Growler
Best Insulated Sports Water Bottle: CamelBak Podium Big Chill
Best Insulated Filter Water Bottle: Lifestraw Go
Best Insulated Water Bottle for Kids: Thermos Funtainer Bottle With Straw

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle

Material Stainless steel
Insulation type Double-wall vacuum
BPA-free Yes
Weight 1 lb., 2 oz. in 40 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 20, 24, 32, 40 and 64 fl. oz.

Long-standing cold and heat retention
Slim profile fits into many pockets and cupholders
Wide mouth accommodates ice cubes
Not impervious to dents

Sometimes, you don’t want to mess with the OG. Hydro Flask’s Wide Mouth ($50) won out as the best insulated bottle, with a massive following both in the GearJunkie offices as well as with adventurers abroad. There may only be so many ways to craft an insulated bottle today, but Hydro Flask hits the nail on the head with this one.

Astute observers will note that our top spot has long been occupied by Hydro Flask’s Standard Mouth offering, but all tides change eventually, and after consistent testing side by side, we now lean on our Wide Mouth bottle more to slake our thirst on a hot summer’s day. The wide mouth also better accommodates loading ice cubes in the bottle, keeping it ice cold for longer.

No matter the model, the brand’s double-wall vacuum insulation and pro-grade stainless steel construction are designed to maintain drink temperatures for hours without altering taste — an impressive 24 hours of cold and 12 hours of heat retention.

And we found during testing that this bottle is pretty durable as well, thanks to its powder-coated exterior. We will note that even the best has a limit, and dropping the Wide Mouth bottle from a good height is liable to lead to some dings.

Our testers raved about this bottle for its great insulation and lineup of more than 12 fun colors. Also, being on the skinnier side, it fits in most cup holders and pack pockets. While it also comes in 20-, 24- and 32-ounce sizes, we like the 40-ounce best for most activities. The Hydro Flask Wide Mouth is easily the bottle we reach for the most often as we head out the door.

RTIC Vacuum Insulated Bottle

Weight 15.0 oz. in 32 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 32, 36, and 40 fl. oz.

The Best Insulated Water Bottles of 2024

Affordable Price
Good heat and cold retention
Flip-up lid allows drinking without removing the whole lid
Available in over a dozen colors
Not as heavy-duty as some other models

RTIC is a well-respected player in the cooler and drinkware market for offering high-quality, durable products at a more reasonable price than some of the other big brands. Their Vacuum Insulated Bottle ($20 for the 32-ounce size) hits the mark for simple quality at an unbeatable price.

The RTIC Bottle shares many similarities with comparable models from Hydro Flask and YETI, like stainless steel construction, double-wall vacuum insulation, and a powder-coated protective finish. We’re also big fans of the flip-top lid that lets you drink from the bottle without removing the entire lid. In our years of hydrating at home, at the office, in the car, or out in nature, we can’t tell you how many spills we’ve had with other bottles from accidentally leaving the lid partially open. It’s still possible to leak a little out of the flip-top lid, but you won’t be drenching yourself like you would with a completely open bottle.

While the RTIC Bottle looks and performs similarly to the Hydro Flask and YETI models, it doesn’t feel quite as heavy-duty and indestructible. Having said that, we haven’t experienced any quality or durability issues in our testing. Also, remember that you can buy two RTIC Bottles for the same price as one of the others, which is why it earns our pick as the best value option.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler

Weight 1.4 lbs in 40 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 14, 20, 30, 40, and 64 fl. oz.

Car cup holder compatible even in larger sizes
3-position lid including reusable straw
Large handle improves grip
Lid is not leak-proof
40 fl. oz. size is quite heavy

At larger volumes, many insulated water bottles won’t fit in a car cup holder. The Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler ($45) solves this problem with a tapered bottom designed for cup holder compatibility, even in the 40-ounce size. Fill up this tumbler before your next road trip, and you’ll stay hydrated for the long haul.

The 3-position lid features a reusable straw for sipping and a wider mouth opening for chugging. We especially liked using the straw while driving; it makes it easy to keep your eyes on the road while enjoying your beverage. It’s worth noting that the rotating mechanism on the lid does not seal, and this lid is not leakproof. If you are looking for a bottle to throw in your bag while on the go, this tumbler is not the ideal choice.

We recently brought the Stanley Quencher on a drive into the mountains for an overnight backpacking trip. Drinking water is important before big days in the mountains, and we hit the trail feeling well-hydrated. We left the tumbler half full in the car overnight, and we were pleasantly surprised to enjoy cool water after the trip, even though the car was sitting in the sun when we returned.

While we wouldn’t recommend this for hiking or backpacking, the Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler is our new favorite road trip companion.

YETI Rambler Chug Water Bottle

Weight 1 lb., 3.2 oz. in the 18 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 18, 26, 36, 46, 64 fl. oz.

Fits in most cup holders
Available in a wide variety of colors, sizes, and lid types
Standard issue Chug cap isn’t for everyone

YETI’s 26-ounce Rambler Bottle ($40) is another amazing insulated bottle. This one is tied with our top choice for its stainless steel construction and insulating performance. However, it weighs slightly more — although that also gives it points for durability.

Available in an impressive five different volumes, there’s bound to be a Rambler bottle for any sized adventure you might be planning. The bottle comes standard with YETI’s Chug Cap, which is about the only controversial feedback among testers — some loved the two-part narrow mouth cap, and some didn’t.

A final note — one of the best parts of buying from an established brand like YETI is the broad range of supplementing accessories available. We counted five different lid styles available for the Rambler , which makes it a super versatile bottle to match whatever hydration needs you might have.

Of all of the insulated bottles we’ve tested over the years, offerings like the Rambler consistently held up better than their counterparts, making this bottle one tough option for those who leave the kid gloves at home.

YETI Rambler Colster

Weight 9.6 oz. in 12 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 12 fl. oz., 12 fl. oz. Slim Can, 16 fl. oz. Tall Can

Simple design with only two parts
Truly keeps drinks chilled
Not a one size fits all solution
A little heavy

When the heat of the summer comes on, water isn’t the only thing we’re looking to slake our thirsts. Your favorite foam can koozie may get all the laughs, but a true insulating can cooler like the YETI Rambler Colster ($25) will keep your favorite beverage chilled for far longer. We found the Colster to be the best of the bunch, with a simple design that just plain works on a long day outside.

Made of the same double-wall stainless steel construction as the rest of YETI’s insulated offerings, the Colster retains the same high performance in a smaller package. And by utilizing a simple lock ring design, this can cooler will holster any 12-ounce can with ease, though it won’t accommodate the other can styles made today.

Luckily, YETI makes the Colster in additional 12-ounce Slim Can and 16-ounce Tall Can versions. We did find the Colster a bit hefty for what it is but chalked it up to being necessary for adequate insulation.

For those who like to sip a little slower (or have trouble remembering which can they were drinking from), the Colster is the perfect companion to your next six-pack.

MiiR Growler

Weight 1 lb., 13 oz. in 64 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 64 fl. oz.

Handles carbonated beverages easily, no leaks here
Lid and pour handle make for easy distribution
Rubber seal can retain scents

One of the things that bedevil many insulated bottles is carbonated beverages — but not the 64-ounce MiiR Growler ($60). This insulated brewtainer keeps your favorite IPA locked down, thanks to an innovative threadless lid and locking clasp that seals in freshness and carbonation.

MiiR considered all the niceties as well, incorporating a lid that locks into place in the open position so as to not impede a good pour. The Growler holds an impressive 4 pints of liquid and keeps them chilled for a long time. We will note the rubber seal that’s used can hold onto the scent of whatever is stored last, but this can be removed and washed separately.

One of the things that sets MiiR apart from other manufacturers is the company’s ingrained global philanthropy, funded by a portion of the sales of every product. To date, MiiR has donated $3.75 million to various nonprofits, ranging from sustainable food systems to land and water protections. You can feel good knowing your Growler is doing something positive for the world.

Excellent for bringing the party with you (and keeping it chill), the MiiR Growler makes the cut for anyone looking to transport their brews and enjoy them too.

CamelBak Podium Big Chill

Material Plastic Polypropylene
Insulation type Double-wall
Weight 4.3 oz.
Available volumes 24 fl. oz.

Leakproof design is effective
Option to lock the lid
Taste-free bottle
Fits in versatile cycling setups
Affordable price
Insulating is just okay and doesn’t last long in summer
Cap is hard to clean
Internal cap plug can easily be lost

The CamelBak Podium Insulated Water Bottle ($18) is designed as the optimal warm-weather cycling bottle but also works well in other sports settings. Its double-wall construction is designed to maintain cold temperatures, but the insulating properties could be improved. Compared to a standard cycling squeeze bottle, this insulated one does way better, but in the peak summer heat, it would be nice if it kept a colder temperature for longer. The high flow rate and easy squeeze design deliver hydration efficiently, and the self-sealing cap minimizes spills — a feature that’s especially appreciated during intense rides.

During real-world testing, the Podium bottle excels in functionality. The positive lock-out feature ensures leakproof transport, but we didn’t have leaking issues even when the bottle was unlocked. Although it is made from plastic, we had no issues with water tasting like plastic even when used in the summer sun. We loved that it fit most cycling setups and all our water bottle cages. It is easy to drink from, and even when left in the open position while riding, it does not leak.

While it keeps drinks cooler for longer, they eventually reach ambient temperature during extended use. The removable internal cap plug, crucial for the on/off flow function, is prone to being lost, which could affect usability. Additionally, disassembling the top for cleaning can be challenging, requiring considerable effort and care to avoid breaking the plastic tabs. Plus, cleaning is when the internal cap plug is likely to be lost, so you need to pay attention.

Overall, the CamelBak Podium offers impressive leakproof features and a decent insulating performance designed for cyclists but functional for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.

LifeStraw Go

Material Stainless steel bottle, BPA-Free membrane microfilter, activated carbon filter
Weight 16.5 oz. in the 18 fl. oz.
Available volumes 18 fl. oz., 24 fl. oz., 1

Filter has a built-in flow indicator
Membrane Microfilter has a lengthy lifespan for the size
Dual filters are replaceable
Stainless steel design is durable and easy to clean
Frequent carbon filter replacements
Filter can not remove chemicals from water

The LifeStraw Go Water Bottle ($50) is reliable for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking clean, safe hydration. Its dual-filter system effectively protects against contaminants and enhances water taste.

The heart of the LifeStraw Go Series is its Membrane Microfilter, which removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics while filtering out sand, dirt, and cloudiness. This filter can purify up to 1,000 gallons of water before needing replacement, ensuring long-term reliability. Complementing this is the Activated Carbon Filter, which improves taste by reducing chlorine and organic chemicals, though it needs replacing every two months or so.

We tested the stainless steel LifeStraw Go, although it also comes in an uninsulated plastic version. The stainless steel model stood out for its durability and double-wall vacuum insulation, keeping water refreshingly cold even on hot days. We found it nice to have a water bottle with a built-in water filtration system while on long hikes, when refilling from natural sources was required, or even while traveling to make access to clean water easier.

One limitation is the inability to filter out harmful chemicals like PFAS, which could be a concern in areas with high contamination. Despite this, the LifeStraw Go’s robust filtration, ease of use, and practical features make it a valuable tool for safe hydration during travel and outdoor adventures.

Thermos Funtainer Bottle With Straw

Weight 4 oz. in 12 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 12, 16 fl. oz.

Perfect size for lunch boxes and backpacks
Built-in straw is easy to manage for kids
Can leak from air hole if not closed properly

A fun and trusty water bottle is a great way to encourage your kids to stay hydrated. The 12-ounce Thermos Funtainer ($20) from Thermos is a durable, safe, and affordable bottle designed for kids of all ages. Plus, it comes with a built-in straw.

This compact and packable bottle comes in all sorts of kid-friendly colors and patterns. Though the capacity is a fairly small 12 ounces, it’s the perfect size for small hands. This bottle fits easily into most school bags and lunch boxes.

Made from BPA-free stainless steel, this bottle is both lightweight and thoroughly durable. The click-shut lid is easy to open and quite leakproof when properly closed (which was our only complaint). When tucked away with the lid closed, the Funtainer keeps liquids cold and refreshing for a full 12 hours.

Right at home in any lunch pail, the Thermos Funtainer keeps tykes hydrated all day long.

CamelBak Eddy+ Stainless Steel

Material Stainless Steel
Weight 6.14 oz
Available volumes 25 fl. oz

Actually leak and spill proof
Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Compatible with other CamelBak products
Can be difficult to get valve clean
Straw takes some force to suck water through
No real stand out features to justify the price

The CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle ( $35) is a versatile hydration companion for various settings. Ideal for work, school, road trips, or camping, it combines insulating technology with user-friendly features.

One of its most impressive aspects is the redesigned bite valve, which allows for 25% more water per sip, making it easier to stay hydrated throughout the day. Even with this feature, we found it difficult to get water through the straw without a decent amount of effort.

The double-wall vacuum insulation claims to keep drinks cold for up to 32 hours, although we found it only lasted about half that time, especially when used in outdoor summer settings. Whether you’re in a long meeting, on a hot hike, or camping, this bottle still has a decent ability to maintain temperature, and it prevents condensation, which is a major plus.

One of the best features is that it is leak-proof and spill-proof, and the bottle is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Additionally, the Eddy + is easy to carry, compatible with other CamelBak products, and is backed by CamelBak’s Got Your Bak Lifetime Guarantee.

Igloo Sport Sipper Bottle

Weight 14.4 oz. in 20 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 20 fl. oz.

Budget price
Rubberized bottle stays put
Flattened edge on bottle improves grip and lines up straw
Bail handle is a bit loose

Going budget doesn’t have to mean scraping the bottom of the barrel, and the Igloo Sport Sipper Bottle ($20) is proof positive of that. The brand has been getting coolers right for 75 years running, so it’s unsurprising that its foray into insulated bottles has produced a winner.

Built with a reliable stainless steel double wall construction, the Sport Sipper claims cold retention of up to 24 hours and up to 6 hours with hot beverages — numbers that we were able to confirm in our own testing. Not too shabby for a cool $20 out of your pocket.

With a mostly round exterior profile, the Sport Sipper bottles also feature a flattened edge for your thumb along the front of the bottle. Not only does this give you some gripping power, but it also lines up the straw for quick access. Smart.

Flipping up the straw is a snap, and the rubberized bottom helps keep the important side down. The bail-style handle, while handy, was a bit floppy in our usage (and despite our best fixer efforts, no tightening of the hex screws would alleviate it). Not a deal breaker, in our opinion, just something to keep in mind when toting the bottle around.

For less than you might spend on lunch, the Igloo Sport Sipper slides in as an affordable way to keep your beverages cool this summer.

Owala FreeSip Vacuum Water Bottle

Weight 15.2 oz. in 32 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 19, 22, 32, 40 fl. oz.

Well constructed flip top lid
FreeSip spout for sipping or gulping
Tough powdercoating
Handle doesn't lock out
Not for use with hot liquids

When it comes to insulated water bottles, it’s tough to imagine anything new under the sun. But with a spout design that impressed us right out of the gate, the Owala FreeSip ($33) proves that there’s still innovation to be done.

While many other bottles have interchangeable lids that offer different means of drinking, the FreeSip spout is a bit of a hybrid, combining both a straw and open-mouth neck. You have the choice of either sipping or chugging. The whole affair is protected by a stout flip-top lid, and in testing, we came to really enjoy drinking from this bottle.

Backed up with a triple-layer vacuum construction, the Owala FreeSip has all the tech to do what insulated water bottles do best, and we had no problem keeping our water cool all day. Our only slight arose with the carry loop, which has a detent (or catch) for locking it down in the closed position, but not in the up.

Other than that small flaw, it’s perfect for drinking on the go. The FreeSip is high on our list of best water bottles on the market today.

Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw Water Bottle

Weight 16 oz. in 22 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 17, 22 fl. oz.

One of the better straw-drinking lids
Bottle shape fits well in your hand
Only smaller volumes are available
Can be difficult to clean

Borrowing from the company’s successes in the realm of thermoses , Stanley has produced a great insulated bottle with the IceFlow Flip Straw Water Bottle ($32). We don’t have too many straw-drinking lids in our review, but this bottle executed it perfectly.

The contoured bottle shape fits well in our hands, and the oversized bail on top meant we weren’t scrambling to keep a hold of it. Because it’s a straw bottle, you’re limited to only using cold liquids in it. Our biggest complaint, however, was the rubber seal is particularly deep inside the lid and not ideal for washing.

With a good pedigree, the IceFlow bottle comes from a long line of keeping hot things hot and cold things cold and is the perfect fit for walking and drinking on the go.

Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth

Weight 12.6 oz. in 32 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 21, 24, 32 fl. oz.

Lightweight construction
Same Hydro Flask build quality
Higher price
Temperature retention somewhat compromised by low weight

Hydro Flask’s new Lightweight Trail Series bottles have r eally won us over . If it weren’t for the price, this bottle might be in our top three.

The Lightweight Wide Mouth ($50) weighs just 11 ounces, has a perforated strap to keep weight down, and is designed to work with most backcountry water filters. Hydro Flask did some metal wizardry on this bottle, giving it tapered walls that are thicker on the bottom for durability, and thinner on top for weight savings.

Compared to the Wide Mouth Hydro Flask , we did note some diminished ability to keep drinks cold for as long, but the difference is small. When you’re counting ounces, the Lightweight Wide Mouth comes in clutch.

Klean Kanteen Insulated TKWide With Twist Cap

Weight 1 lb., 4 oz. in 32 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 12, 16, 20, 32, 64 fl. oz.

Fully insulated cap increases temperature retention
Stainless steel cap bottom means there’s a full steel interior
Lid can be a bit hard to grasp

This Klean Kanteen bottle ($45) has a wide mouth, is vacuum-insulated, and holds 32 ounces of your drink of choice. It’s more expensive than others on this list but has everything you need: a cap and fold-down carry handle, a stainless steel interior, and insulation to keep liquids hot for 24 hours and iced for an incredible 83!

We were especially impressed with the thought put into the lid design. Using what Kleen Kanteen calls its TK Closure, the internal threads of the bottle are more like rows of bumps, meaning fewer nooks and crannies to clean. The lid is also fully vacuum insulated and sports a stainless steel bottom, meaning your water only sees steel on the inside of this bottle.

Some testers commented they didn’t like the ergonomics of the lid. We noted that it’s slightly narrower and shorter than other wide-mouths on this list. But if that’s no bother to you, the Kleen Kanteen TKWide bottle could be for you.

Purist Mover Bottle

Material Stainless steel & glass
Weight 12.2 oz. in 18 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 18, 32 fl. oz.

Glass lining eliminates any metallic taste from water
Sleek fit and look
Painted finish scratches easily

Purist uses a glass interior coating to combat the odors and flavors some don’t like in their stainless steel bottles. Meanwhile, the exterior sports the tried-and-true stainless steel construction for durability. The brand’s medium size, the Mover 18-ounce bottle ($50), has a convenient sipping cap.

We also liked testing the 32-ounce, wide-mouth size (same insulation and materials, just holds more), although the 18-ounce fits much better in cupholders, packs, and bags. We like the muted colors and professional aesthetic of this brand.

Unfortunately, we did find the Purist Mover Bottle to be a bit lacking when it came to scratch prevention. With no powder coat finish, scratches showed up easily in the painted finish. For the price, this was a bit disappointing. For those who place taste above all else, however, the Mover bottle makes no exceptions.

CamelBak MultiBev Water Bottle

Weight 1 lb., 5 oz. in 16/22 fl. oz. size
Available volumes 12/17, 16/22 fl. oz.

Many options for sharing beverages
Keeps drinks cold for a long time
Heavy design
A bit fiddly to keep track of all the parts

This is by no means a bottle you’ll want to take backpacking, but it’s a really cool design. CamelBak designed the MultiBe v ($50) for just what it sounds like — multiple beverages on the go. This bottle separates into both an insulated bottle, and a cup.

It’s great to fill up with water or coffee at the start of your day and then have a reusable and insulated option for other drinks later. The incorporated cup is also great for sharing, and both components hold the cold and hot temps well.

Because it is so feature-rich, we did find a few things fiddly to handle, such as the Roll and Fold silicone lid, which stows in the main lid of the MultiBe v . That aside, it did give our testers a lot of flexibility in doling out beverages at the end of a hot day.

Insulated Water Bottle Comparison Chart

How We Tested Insulated Water Bottles

Long a holdout to the niceties of an insulated bottle, GearJunkie Senior Editor Nick Belcaster finally came around to the wonders of insulated water bottles after being gifted a Hydro Flask. It turns out that having ice-cold water hours after leaving the house is worth it.

When you work and play in extreme environments, the benefits of keeping hot water hot and cold water cold start to click. Contributor Katie Griffith originally sought an insulated bottle so she could sip on a liter of hot chocolate during an ice climbing trip. Now she packs her Hydro Flask every day for work as a rock climbing guide in Joshua Tree and savors each gulp of cold water in the desert heat.

Many in the GearJunkie offices enjoy bringing an insulated bottle to work, and we tapped into this collective knowledge to assemble our list of bottles. We then put them through the wringer and pulled together the best of the best insulated bottles you see here.

We started our foray into the world of insulated water bottles in 2021 with a slate of 14 bottles, aiming to cut through the noise and distill down a huge market into a handful of the best insulated water bottles available. In order to test our slate of insulated bottles, we subjected them to common-place use, such as on hot day hikes, bike commuting, or airline travel. We paid close attention to how long each bottle held onto chilled water as well as important issues such as leaking or denting.

In 2023, we expanded our horizons when Nick looked afar for the best bottles for more special circumstances and tested models to include the best options for insulated growlers, can coolers, and self-cleaning water bottles.

At the end of 2023, we tweaked our choices again, pivoting some of our award winners to newly updated standard bearers, and added significantly to our Buyer’s Guide to really dig deep into subjects such as volume, materials, and styles.

In 2024, we added a few additional products to the mix, including popular models from CamelBak, LifeStraw and Stanley to now bring you the best 17 bottles around.

Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle in Action

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose an Insulated Water Bottle

It’s worth noting that this article specifically covers the best insulated water bottles. We also have a separate gear guide for the best thermoses , for when the temps dip and a hot drink is needed. You may also want to read up on the best backpacking water filters .

Style of Insulated Bottle

Insulated bottles come in many shapes and sizes. Some closely resemble other plastic sports bottles like the CamelBak Podium Big Chill with spill-proof, screw-top lids. The best overall bottle, Hydro Flask’s Wide Mouth , falls into this category. These are often the most versatile option and may replace your Nalgene when weight isn’t a big factor.

Beyond the standard water bottle, this list also includes tumblers, can coolers, and growlers. A tumbler more closely resembles a cup with a lid than a water bottle. The Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler is great for all-day hydration, but the lid is not spill-proof. You can’t pack it in a backpack like other water bottles.

Other styles are even more specialized, like the MiiR Growler . This insulated container is designed specifically for storing carbonated beverages like beer or kombucha. The lid functions to seal in carbonation and freshness; you wouldn’t need this for your daily beverages. The YETI Rambler Colster is also not designed for direct drinking; this insulated can cooler slides around your bubbly water or beer to keep it chilled.

Pick a water bottle with enough volume for all your activities. If you really love one particular insulated bottle, consider getting two sizes — one for daily use and one with more volume for longer trips or travel. (Also consider if the bottle you’ve chosen will work with a water filter or in your pack pocket if you know you’ll be taking it with you on the trail.) Or, get one with a built in water filter like the Lifestraw Go and you won’t have to worry about it. If you spend a lot of time driving, note that after a certain volume, fitting into most cup holders isn’t going to happen.

Most bottles we tested are available in volumes from around 12 to 64 ounces. A 12 or 16-ounce bottle is ideal for morning coffee or tea, while you’ll likely want a 24- or 32-ounce bottle to stay hydrated. For all-day, outdoor activities, bringing at least two liters of water is typically recommended, which would translate to about 64 ounces of capacity. We find that two 32-ounce bottles fit easier in a backpack than one 64-ounce vessel.

Make sure the bottle you choose lists how long it keeps water (or other liquids) cold. The standard is 24 hours, but we’ve noticed in many of these bottles the contents will stay colder for longer . You’ll want to know how good the insulation is, especially if you live in a hotter climate.

What are the interior and exterior materials? Most insulated bottles use some form of stainless steel double-wall insulation, but not all, like the triple-wall build of the Owala FreeSip . Also, look at the exterior material: Is there a powder coating? Does it reduce condensation? Is there a rubber grip or protective design on the base?

Once you find a bottle you think will work for you, pick out a fun color while you’re at it! Colors are mainly just a preference but can also help identify your bottle in a crowd.

Temperature Retention

One of the most important aspects of an insulated bottle, temperature retention is how well it keeps the hot things hot and the cold things cold. The majority of insulated bottles will use some type of vacuum insulation to achieve this.

Heat energy needs mass to travel through, so by removing the air in between the two layers of the bottle, the liquid inside is able to retain its temperature for longer. We’ve found that most bottles are able to keep hot liquids hot for around 12 hours and cold liquids cold for about 24.

An insulated water bottle is basically a thermos with different design features. Most thermoses are also built with vacuum insulation, but they typically come with a lid designed for pouring hot liquid and a cap that doubles as a small cup for sipping tea or coffee.

Lids on thermoses can also be more effective at keeping liquids hot or cold. The lids on insulated water bottles focus on hydration, with straws like the Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler or open tops like the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth .

Don’t get us wrong; the insulated bottles we tested are still great at temperature retention. We filled the Stanley Quencher halfway with half-inch ice cubes and no water. After 24 hours in a 65-70 degree room, we found some water, but most of the ice cubes had shrunk only 50%.

Metal bottles can sometimes impart a metallic taste to water, often after being left for a long period of time. Bottles like the Purist Mover implement a silicon dioxide coating on the interior of the bottom to create a glass-like barrier. This can greatly reduce the metal taste that is imparted to water.

Keeping insulated bottles clean is also important to limit any off-tastes. Pay attention to how easy the bottle might be to clean. Look at the threads on the lid as well as how easy it is to remove any gaskets for cleaning. Many bottles are marked as dishwasher safe on the top rack but not all.

A quick tip for cleaning your insulated bottle: Mix two to three tablespoons of baking soda and warm water and shake inside your bottle. Let sit for a few hours and then rinse out with water.

Lids & Handles

A bad lid can ruin an insulated bottle. Manufacturers understand consumers have many uses for their bottles and produce a number of different lids to fit them. The most basic will be a simple screw cap, but there are also lids that incorporate straws, flip closures, and even magnets.

Lids will also have a good bit to do with the mouth style of the bottle. Narrow-mouth bottles can make sipping directly from the bottle nice and easy but will limit your ability to put ice into the bottle. Wide-mouth bottles can accept things like water filters with ease, but without a steady hand, they can lead to some spillage.

Some lids are designed to be leak-proof when closed, and some are not. YETI’s 26-ounce Rambler Bottle , for example, features a secure lid that doesn’t allow spillage when screwed on correctly. The Stanley Quencher is not leak-proof and doesn’t claim to be; what it sacrifices in spillage it makes up for in ease of sipping with the reusable straw. The rotating cover helps reduce leaking but doesn’t prevent it.

Our tester performed a leak test on the Quencher by adding food coloring to water inside the bottle, screwing it shut, turning it on its side, and timing both types of covers for ten seconds. The Quencher was nearly full during the test. With the rotating cover closed, a small blue puddle formed on a paper towel within a short time. With the straw still in place, a big puddle spilled over a paper towel almost immediately.

At their most basic, insulated bottles are sleek cylinders, which aren’t the most stable. Having a lid that you can clip a carabiner to can ensure it won’t make an escape. Others will sport a layer of silicone to improve grip or a contoured shape that fits your hand. We found the Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw Water Bottle to be one of the nicest to handle.

Price & Value

Lastly, think hard about your budget. These bottles are an investment but totally worth it, especially if (like us) you spend lots of time outside. And before buying, always check to see if your favorite bottle is on sale.

You can find insulated bottles that won’t break the bank in the $15-25 range, like the RTIC Vacuum Insulated Bottle and the Igloo Sport Sipper. Some of our favorites lie in the $30-50 range, including the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth or the YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle. Though a little spendier, both of these come in larger volumes and feature a coating that improves durability.

The most specialized bottles often come with the highest price tag, including the MiiR Growler, Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth , and Purist Mover Bottle . All sports technologies that go above and beyond daily hydration needs, like holding in carbonation, adding a taste-free liner, or being made from uber-thin materials to cut down weight, can all add to the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

On this list, we have selected the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth 40-ounce bottle as the best overall insulated water bottle. This option provides a useful blend of quality insulation and heavy-duty construction. We also like that it fits easily in most cup holders.

Still, the best-insulated water bottle is the one that meets your needs. If you are looking for a bottle with smaller volume, you may want to go with the 26-ounce YETI Rambler or 32-ounce Owala FreeSip .

All of the bottles on this list will do a great job at keeping your hot liquids hot and your cold liquids cold for impressively long periods. That said, the YETI Rambler Chug Water Bottle performs exceptionally well when filled with hot contents. It’s a lightweight bottle that keeps liquids piping hot and is thoroughly leakproof.

It is important to regularly clean reusable water bottles to prevent the growth of bacteria. Many insulated water bottles are dishwasher safe, and others can be easily cleaned with dish soap and hot water.

On this list, many of the bottles are made from easy-to-clean materials such as stainless steel and linings such as glass or copper. After cleaning, it is a good idea to take the cap off of your bottle and let it fully air dry.

Generally, it is safe to fill insulated water bottles with contents other than water. For coffee and tea, an insulated water bottle can allow you to enjoy a hot drink all through the morning.

However, it is especially important that you clean your bottle thoroughly after filling it with anything other than water. Because of the different shapes of insulated bottles, some are easier to clean than others.

For food like hot soup or oatmeal, you’re going to be better off with a food-specific thermos. These are similar to insulated water bottles, but their short and stout shape makes them easier to use and clean. A good thermos can keep hot food at a safe temperature for hours — an excellent counterpart to an insulated bottle!

Yes, many insulated water bottles are dishwasher-safe. Always double-check the manufacturer’s directions before washing your bottle. If your bottle is not dishwasher-safe, it can be cleaned with hot water, a little dish soap, and a thorough rinsing.

Always check to see what the manufacturer suggests. Many insulated water bottles can be washed in the dishwasher, which is an effective way to thoroughly remove any bacteria that may be present.

If washing by hand, scrub the inside and outside of the bottle with hot water and dish soap. Be sure to fully clean out the threads on both the cap and bottle. After cleaning, let all parts fully air dry.

Thanks to hardy stainless steel or ceramic construction, a good insulated water bottle should last many years — or potentially decades for the careful owner. We’ve all seen those old green Stanley bottles that are three decades old and still going strong.

The biggest threat to insulated water bottles is puncturing. If the double or triple-walled insulation of your bottle is punctured, it will lose its ability to insulate. To prevent this, avoid dropping your bottle onto jagged or hard surfaces. Plastic insulated water bottles are less prone to dents and punctures, but they are generally not as rugged overall.

If an insulated bottle becomes punctured, it will lose its vacuum and be replaced by air molecules. Since there is now matter in between the inner and outer bottles, heat transfer occurs much quicker.

To test if your bottle still has its vacuum sealing: Carefully fill the bottle with boiling water and wait five minutes. Then feel for any hot spots, which would indicate loss of insulation.

The Best Thermoses of 2024

If you want your favorite liquids to stay hot all day, check out our roundup of the best thermoses of 2024. Get ready to warm up with a hot drink.

The Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2024

We tested the best backpacking water filters and purifiers for your next trip into the great outdoors.

Mary Murphy has been writing about hiking, running, climbing, camping, skiing, and more for eight years, and has been on staff at GearJunkie since 2019. Prior to that, Mary wrote for 5280 Magazine in Denver while working as an outdoor instructor teaching climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, mountain biking, and the love of nature to kids. Based in Denver, Colorado, Murphy is an avid hiker, runner, backpacker, skier, yogi, and pack-paddleboarder.

Meg Carney is a freelance writer for GearJunkie. Meg has been writing about hiking, camping, paddling, backpacking, and dogs for about eight years and was first published with GearJunkie in 2019. Since then, Meg has written for Field and Stream, Popular Mechanics, US & World News, The Boston Globe, and outdoor industry businesses like Ruffwear and Helly Hansen. Her journalism also extends to her original podcast productions, Outdoor Minimalist and Forever Chemicals. Based in Washington, Meg spends her free time out on the water or trails with her three dogs, Ash, Leo, and Tundra.

Katie is a freelance writer and gear tester with GearJunkie. She has been writing about climbing, mountaineering, and backpacking for five years. In addition to freelance writing, she teaches clinics and runs women’s climbing events as a guide and instructor for She Moves Mountains. Based in Joshua Tree, CA, and Index, WA, Katie loves climbing splitter cracks in the mountains, riding her bicycle, and cooking yummy food for her friends.

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Breaking news, here is the world’s best-connected airport, thanks to its strategic location.

New data has revealed the world’s best-connected airport.

IGA Istanbul Airport has been named the the world’s best-connected airport based on data from the first two quarters of 2024 compiled by aviation analytics platform Cirium .

The airport, which opened just six years ago in 2018, operates 309 nonstop flights to destinations around the world — mostly through Turkish Airlines, which serves more countries than any other airline.

Turkish Airlines airplane on the runway with Air Traffic Control Tower of international Istanbul New Airport in the background, taken on June 3, 2023.

“Our strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia allows us to serve as a vital hub for international travel,” Selahattin Bilgen, the airport’s CEO, said in a statement to CNN .

“We have also proven to be the most resilient airport, recovering the fastest ever after the COVID-19 pandemic and reaching our pre-pandemic passenger numbers before any other airport in the world.”

Modern Departures Hall interior with large 'ISTanbul' word statue at the center in Istanbul Airport

Istanbul Airport is a global hub that sees about 90 million passengers pass through per year with an annual capacity of 200 million, making it the seventh busiest airport in the world.

The airports that follow Istanbul Airport as the most connected are Frankfurt with 296 nonstop flights, Paris Charles de Gaulle with 282 and Amsterdam Schiphol with 270.

A group of people in the large, bustling terminal of Istanbul Airport, Turkey on March 20, 2021.

As for North America, the most connected airport is Chicago O’Hare, tying at No. 4 with Amsterdam Schiphol, serving 270 nonstop destinations.

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport comes in seventh, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is at ninth, and narrowly missing the top 10 is Denver International Airport at 11th, serving 229 nonstop destinations.

Here are the top 10 most connected airports in the world, according to Cirium:

1. Istanbul Airport (309 unique nonstop destinations)

2. Frankfurt Airport (296)

3. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (282)

4. TIE: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (270)

4. TIE: Chicago O’Hare International Aiport (270)

6. Dubai International Airport (269)

7. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (261)

8. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (243)

9. Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (237)

10. Rome Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport (234)

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Warranty: The manufacturer offers a one-year brand warranty on part failure. Amazon offers a one-year extended warranty for Dh114 and two years for Dh162.

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St Petersburg

Planning a trip to Saint Petersburg? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

Saint Petersburg

General information
What to see
How to get to St Petersburg
Where to stay
Where to eat

Why visit Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg, Petrograd, Leningrad... under any of its names, it's an elegant city with an eventful past . Built by Peter the Great in the early 18th century as a display of the power of Imperial Russia to the world , it's an important artistic and cultural center thanks to the wealth of monuments and museums that tell its story.

The City of Tsars and the former Russian capital, Saint Petersburg is also intrinsically linked to the water, earning it the nickname " Venice of the North " for its impressive number of canals and bridges . Lavish palaces, exquisite gardens, and some of the world's best museums complete the city's offering for locals and tourists alike.

Relive the elegance of Imperial Russia by visiting Saint Petersburg's fairy tale chateaux: Peterhof Palace , the Winter Palace , and Catherine Palace await you in all their glory. For a well-deserved break after sightseeing, stop in at a local restaurant to indulge in Russian specialties: caviar, vodka, and beef Stroganoff anyone?

From May to June, the White Nights make Saint Petersburg even more magical, with impossibly beautiful sunsets bringing almost-endless summer nights to a close.

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Saint Petersburg and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city, before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Saint Petersburg will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Hotels in St. Petersburg - reserve here for the best prices!

Why is our Saint Petersburg travel guide the best?

Introducing Saint Petersburg is a city guide written by travelers for travelers , and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of April 2021. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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13 Things To Do In Saint Petersburg | Russia’s Most Beautiful City

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: January 17, 2021 - Last updated: September 11, 2021

Categories Europe , Destinations , Russia

Once known as Leningrad and before that Petrograd, Saint Petersburg, Russia, is the country’s second-largest city. Set next to the Neva River, close to the Baltic Sea, this city is home to over 5 million people.

It’s the world’s northernmost city, founded by Peter the Great and named after Saint Peter the apostle. Once home to the Tsars of Russia, it is today known as the country’s cultural capital.

With iconic sights such as Hermitage Museum, Nevsky Prospect, Peterhof Palace, and so much more, it has a fascinating heritage ripe for exploration. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 13 best things to do in St. Petersburg.

Visit Saint Petersburg, Europe´s most beautiful city

Top Things to do in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Europe, has grown into one of the top tourist destinations on the continent. Although it might get very cold in winter, there are still plenty of things to do – and the summers are absolutely perfect! Saint Petersburg is one of the prettiest cities in all of Europe .

Keep reading for some of my favorite choices.

1. Visit The World Famous Hermitage Museum

Saint Petersburg,St.Petersburg,russia,Hermitage Museum,russia

One of the city’s most popular attractions (with over 3 million items in its esteemed collection), State Hermitage Museum showcases everything from fine art to ancient artifacts.

Even if you don’t plan on entering inside, the exterior is an architectural gem in itself. The columns are all in white with green/gold facades that can be viewed from the river or Palace Square.

If you’re visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, your trip would not be complete without stopping past this world-famous landmark. It’s also a great activity to do no matter what time of year you are visiting – and a perfect way to escape those cold Russian winter days.

There are six buildings in the museum complex in total. Five of which – Winter Palace, Small Hermitage, Old Hermitage, New Hermitage, and Hermitage Theatre – can be accessed by the public.

Within, you’ll be treated to Egyptian collections, artifacts dating from ancient Mesopotamia, and classical Greek jewelry, pottery, and sculptures. This is any historical culture lover’s dream.

Keep exploring, and you will find collections of prehistoric relics from the Palaeolithic era to the Iron Ages, European fine arts, Impressionist works, Catherine the Great’s personal collections, and so much more.

In fact, you’ll need an entire day or possibly longer to explore this incredible museum complex. If you only have limited time in St. Petersburg, be sure to add this museum to your itinerary! There are also guided tours available if you want a more educational experience.

Did you know? The Hermitage Museum is the world’s second-largest art museum.

2. Take in a Performance at Mariinsky Theatre

The Neoclassical Mariinsky Theatre is home to Russia’s revered opera and ballet companies.

The theatre – named after the wife of Tsar Alexandra II, Empress Maria Alexandrovna – has been here since 1860 when it was known as the Kirov Theatre.

This magnificent building, since it opened, has hosted stage performances and premieres from Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky and famous ballets such as Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker.

Today, in addition to hosting live performances, the theatre has its own record label, which focuses on releasing music by Russian composers Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, and Rachmaninov.

If you enjoy the arts and are going to be in St. Petersburg for several days, book tickets to see a world-class performance – you won’t be disappointed.

3. See Jewelled Eggs at the Faberge Museum

The House of Faberge was founded in St. Petersburg in 1842 by Gustav Faberge. Originally a jeweler, he became famous for designing jewel-encrusted eggs for the Tsars of Russia and is arguably the most famous goldsmith of the modern era.

Today, you can view these iconic collection pieces in the Faberge Museum. It showcases 4,000 items in total, including Faberge Easter eggs, jewelry, silverware, home decor, and fantasy-themed objects.

The incredible jeweled eggs are famous all over the world, and there are several museums dedicated to them. But if you want to learn about Gustav Faberge, his family, and how it all began, this is the museum to visit. You can purchase a ticket in person or online.

4. Spend an Hour Canal Cruising

St. Petersburg is built on 42 islands, and once upon a time (before bridges were constructed), cruising was the only way to navigate the city.

On a Golden Ring boat tour, you’ll see some of St. Petersburg’s iconic sights along the Kryukov Canal, including St. Nicholas Cathedral, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Mariinsky theatre.

Saint Isaac's Cathedral in central Saint Petersburg.

You’ll dip beneath the famous colored bridges on Neva River whilst enjoying views of Peter and Paul Fortress, Vasilyevsky Island, and the Summer Garden. This is truly one of the most breathtaking ways to take in all the beauty that St. Petersburg has to offer.

This tour also only takes around an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to revisit your favorite spots throughout the day!

5. Discover Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

One of St. Petersburg’s architectural masterpieces is the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood.

This former Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1907 and is built in Baroque, Neoclassical, and Russian Revival design. It is one of the city’s main attractions, with ornate domes, intricate frescoes, and 7,500 square meters of mosaics inside.

If you don’t wish to enter, you can gain incredible views from Griboedov Canal. But if you do venture inside, you’ll be rewarded with interior frescoes and mosaic works depicting biblical scenes and figures created by celebrated Russian artists of the time.

The Church of the Saviour of Blood is built on the spot where Emperor Alexander 2 was assassinated in 1881 – hence the name. So, not only will you be able to appreciate the fine architectural designs, but also explore an important part of Russian history.

6. Take a Rooftop Walk-in St. Petersburg

If you have viewed the city from canals and rivers, try it from the rooftops! You can take a guided rooftop walk in the city, seeing streets and skylines from an elevated perspective.

One particular tour to highlight is the Official Rooftops Excursion of St. Petersburg. Just a few minutes from Nevsky Prospect, these sites offer vistas of Fontanka River and Trinity Cathedral – and that’s just the first roof.

The second roof boasts views of St. Petersburg’s old center, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Kazan Cathedral, and the Church on Spilled Blood.

This is a truly incredible way to see the city in all its glory, plus the tour provides you with binoculars so you can see everything in great detail.

7. Admire Nevsky Prospect’s Magnificent Architecture

The main street of St. Petersburg is Nevsky Prospect. Begin at the intersection at Stroganov Palace before venturing to Kazan Cathedral. While you walk, take in the monuments dedicated to Catherine the Great and browse goods at The Passage – Nevsky Avenue’s premier department store.

This store was quite the trailblazer. It opened its doors in the late 1840s and was one of the first buildings in Russia to use gas for lighting. Then, in 1900, an electric station was installed on an underground floor.

Once you’ve finished shopping and enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee, continue to the Russian National Library – the oldest public library in Russia – and Alexandrinsky Theatre (which was built for the Imperial troupe of Petersburg).

8. Visit the Island of Peter and Paul Fortress

Peter and Paul Fortress saint petersburg

Set on an island connected by bridges, Peter and Paul Fortress is instantly recognizable from its needle spire, which dominates the skyline. The fortress was originally built to defend the maritime city from Swedish invaders.

However, Peter the Great defeated the opposition before it was even completed! It has since served as a military center and prison for political dissenters and, latterly, as a museum.

Inside the vast complex, you can see Peter and Paul Cathedral, visit the resting place of the Romanovs, and watch military processions or the firing of the noon-day gun.

It’s a great day trip for anyone interested in Russian, maritime or military history. There are also plenty of group walking tours available.

9. Sample Russian Vodka in a Ryumochnye

A visit to Russia wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local drink – vodka, and the best place to do this is in a Ryumochnye. This is a specific style of 19th-century Russian drinking house that not only offers some of Russia’s best vodka but also a short history lesson.

You could call it a bar, but it’s more than that – most mainstream Ryumochnye have a definite Soviet vibe and are places for working men to kick back and enjoy vodka with their buddies.

Beverages come in bottles or shot form, and some places offer self-service and snacks.

If that sounds too hardcore for your taste, there are updated versions of Ryumochnye in the city, like Mayak in St. Petersburg, where you can gain a similar experience.

10. Enjoy local Saint Petersburg Craft Beer

Although most people think of vodka when visiting Russia, you can also enjoy some of the best craft beer in Saint Petersburg . Russia’s second-largest city has an exciting, rapidly growing craft beer scene, in part due to its history and geography.

Historically, the Russian empire was influenced by Northern Europe, and the Dutch & English beer-drinking culture eventually made its way here. Today, Saint Petersburg is home to a growing number of modern microbreweries, cool taprooms, and stylish bars.

Saint Petersburg is also home to Stepan Razin Brewery, the oldest brewery in Russia (now, of course, owned by Heiniken). It opened in 1795, but today the building is known as the Saint Petersburg Beer Museum, showcasing the history of beer in Russia and the Soviet Union.

Russia’s largest and most popular brewery, Baltika, is also located in Saint Petersburg, and it’s possible to take a tour of their huge brewery.

11. See the Majestic Catherine Palace

A stately palace of blue and gold, Catherine’s Palace is located 26 kilometers south of St. Petersburg. Named after the wife of Peter the Great, this place was originally a two-story modest building commissioned in 1717.

The exterior, which stretches for one kilometer in circumference, is surrounded by woodlands, lawns, gilded balconies, and reliefs. However, the interiors are even more impressive.

With great halls, a white dining room, an amber room, and more. It’s the perfect place to step back into history and discover what life was like as a Russian aristocracy.

12. Explore Peterhof Palace

If you’re going to visit Catherine Palace, you should tour Peterhof too. It’s a 40-minute drive away, but you can even take a hydrofoil speed boat from right behind the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg center.

Sitting close to the Baltic Sea, Peterhof Palace was constructed by Peter the Great to be Russia’s version of Versailles. The opulent residence surrounded by sculptures, fountains, and tiered staircases leading to the grand entrance evokes mystery and the history of a bygone era.

Inside it is lavishly decorated with dazzling chandeliers, one-of-a-kind artworks and beautiful ceiling frescoes.

On a guided tour, you can learn more about the palace’s history. Discover the Throne Room, Portrait Hall and Peter the Great’s Oak Study. You’ll see dining rooms set for dinner, grand ballrooms where dancing and gatherings would take place, and décor which defies time.

The palace offers great insight into his life and legacy, and if you are interested in history, art and interior design, you’ll love it.

Want to know more about Peterhof?

13. Spend a Day by the Finnish Border at Vyborg

Just over an hour from central Saint Petersburg by train is the city of Vyborg. It sits on the Gulf of Finland and was first settled back in the 12th century. The city has been occupied by Finnish and German forces and suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. However, it has since been rebuilt.

It’s a charming center to wander around, with narrow cobbled streets, a medieval castle, and Finnish art nouveau structures sprinkled throughout. An easy day trip from St. Petersburg, it can also serve as a stop-off point if you’re crossing into Finland to continue your adventure.

Want to know more about Saint Petersburg?

Where is St. Petersburg | Is St. Petersburg in Europe?

If you want to know “Where is Saint Petersburg?”, you’ve come to the right place. Beautiful St. Petersburg is located in northern Russia. Russia is a massive country, so it is no surprise that many people want to know “Is Saint Petersburg in Europe?”. The answer is yes.

How to Get to Saint Petersburg

The maritime city is well linked to Europe by air, sea, rail and road. Depending on where you’re traveling from and the rest of your itinerary, you can use one of the following ways to arrive at St. Petersburg.

You can fly into Saint Petersburg through Pulkovo International Airport. There are around 1,100 international flights a week and 1,200 domestic flights operating in and out of the local airport.

Although many flights from European cities to Saint Petersburg are direct, you may have to change flights if flying from further afield.

It’s also possible to travel to St. Petersburg by train. The most popular (and most frequent) routes operate from Moscow, Helsinki, and Tallinn. However, there are options to travel from other areas in central Europe, central Asia, and eastern Europe by rail.

There is a central bus station in Saint Petersburg, with services to and from Moscow, Pskov, Novgorod, Vilnius, Riga , Tallinn and Helsinki. Some of these journeys can be long and arduous.

Therefore, thorough research and choosing the right bus company is important.

Baltic Sea Cruises also operate to St. Petersburg as part of a larger itinerary, and St. Peter Line Ferry sails from Helsinki in Finland and Tallinn in Estonia.

Exploring Saint Petersburg, Russia

Saint Petersburg is the 5th most populous city in Europe and also a leading tourist destination. Although people sometimes forget about Russia, this city is breathtakingly beautiful and provides plenty of cultural and historical attractions.

Now that you know where to go, I hope you have an amazing time in Russia’s most beautiful city.

Friday 19th of January 2018

Thank you! So great review about our St. Petersburg!

What to do in St. Petersburg in 1 day - Probe around the Globe

Thursday 11th of May 2017

[…] more about the beauty of St. Petersburg from the Unusual […]

Friday 17th of June 2016

Which hostel did you stay at? I am potentially thinking of going to Russia for World Cup 2018 after my World Cup trip to Brazil two years ago. Saint Petersburg is one of the host cities, and so I am very interested in learning more about this city and recommendations from fellow travellers who have been.

Christian L.

I stayed at Soul Kitchen Junior, and I will go so far and say its by far the best hostel I have ever stayed at!! Anywhere in the world, no other hostels even get close to it:)

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3. See Jewelled Eggs at the Faberge Museum. The House of Faberge was founded in St. Petersburg in 1842 by Gustav Faberge. Originally a jeweler, he became famous for designing jewel-encrusted eggs for the Tsars of Russia and is arguably the most famous goldsmith of the modern era.

The best travel camera in 2024: compact and portable cameras to take anywhere

Honorable mentions

The Quick List

The best travel camera in 2024

Best travel camera overall

1. Fujifilm X100VI

Specifications

The best travel camera for versatility

2. Sony a6700

Best full frame on a budget

3. Sony A7 III

Best action camera for travel

4. GoPro Hero12 Black

Best hybrid travel camera

5. Fujifilm X-S20

Best travel camera for size

6. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Best waterproof compact travel camera

7. OM System Tough TG-7

Best luxury camera for travel

8. Leica Q3

Best travel camera for kids

9. Kodak Pixpro FZ55

How to choose the best travel camera

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Is a DSLR or mirrorless camera better for travel photography?

What size camera lens is best for travel?

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

Top 3 picks

The best travel camera overall

The best compact travel camera

The best-looking travel camera

Best by use-case

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

2. Ricoh GR IIIx

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

Best for moving subjects

10. Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

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How to choose the best travel camera

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Best Camera For Travel

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Best Mid-Range Camera For Travel

Best Budget Camera For Travel

Best Point-And-Shoot Camera For Travel

Best Vlogging Camera For Travel

The 12 Best Cameras for Travel Photography in 2024

1. Sony a7C II

2. Nikon Z fc

3. Fujifilm X-T30 II

4. Sony RX100 VII

5. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

6. Sony a7 IV

7. Nikon D5600

8. Ricoh GR III

9. Sony a6700

10. Olympus Tough TG-6

11. Fujifilm X100V