Road Affair is reader-supported and may earn commission from purchases made through links in this article.
Choosing the best travel camera for your journey can be a daunting task, especially with so many camera options available on the market. But don’t worry, in this post we will help you find the best travel camera for your needs.
There are several types of travel cameras available (Point-and-Shoot, High-End Compact Cameras, Mirrorless, DSLR) and each has its benefits. Point & Shoots are the most portable and least expensive, but they also capture lower quality images. High-end cameras are similar to point-and-shoots, but capture high quality images. Mirrorless cameras are best for travel as they offer the compactness of a point-and-shoot but the image sensor of a DSLR. DSLR’s are the heaviest option out of all of them, but they also capture professional quality images.
In the end it really comes down to what type of traveler you are and what features (size, image quality, price, etc.) are important to you. We, for example, are lightweight budget backpackers, so portability and price are very important to us. However, we also have a professional blog to run, so good image quality is equally important. Based on that information we decided to go for the Sony RX100 III, a high-end compact camera that fits into our pants pocket and has a large image sensor.
Once you know what features are important to you, check out our recommendation for the best travel camera for each type.
Contents
Table of Contents
Comparison Table of the Best Travel Cameras
Below is a list of the best cameras for travel. Click on the camera name to read reviews and check prices.
Best Compact Travel Cameras (Point-and-Shoot)
If you need the best compact camera for travel, and price and portability is your main concern, point-and-shoot cameras are your best bet. Nowadays, compact cameras can be had for a very reasonable price and most will fit into your pants pocket or at the very least they won’t weigh down your luggage. Point-and-shoots have come a very long way in the recent years, and take pretty good images. If you are looking for an inexpensive, easy to use camera to document your journey for friends and family, check out our point-and-shoot recommendations below.
Panasonic Lumix FZ80
Sensor: 16.1MP 1/2.3″ BSI MOS
Weight: 19.84 oz.
Features: 60x Optical Zoom, Full HD 1080i Video
The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 captures high quality 4K photos and videos
to make sure you capture the best of your moments. This long-zoom camera
makes it easier than ever to get clear images even if they’re a ways
away. Photos can be recorded at up to 30 frames per second, then you can
pick out the perfect moment. Boasting stunning low-light capture and
featuring LCD touch display and Wi-Fi capabilities, the Panasonic Lumix
FZ80 is a super convenient camera to travel with.
Check Price Now
Canon PowerShot SX720
Sensor: 20.3MP CMOS
Weight: 9.4 oz.
Features: Built-in Wifi, 40x Optical Zoom, 3″ LCD, 1080p HD Video
Whether you’re taking family portraits or capturing images from your
around-the-world adventure, the Canon PowerShot SX720 is ready for
anything. Even when you’re on the move, its updated technology allows
for virtually shake-free photos. The three-inch screen makes checking
image details simple and the built-in Wi-Fi makes transferring and
sharing pictures and videos effortless. With a 40x zoom and 1080p HD
video, the Canon PowerShot SX720 is definitely a camera you want for
your next event.
Check Price Now
Best High-End Compact Travel Cameras
High-end compact cameras are very similar to regular point-and-shoot cameras, but they usually have larger image sensors and come with some other cool features. For example, high-end compact cameras offer a full manual mode next to the auto mode and many allow you to take pictures in RAW format – which allows for better image editing on your computer later. If you don’t want to sacrifice the portability of a point-and-shoot but you need a camera that can capture higher quality images, then you will want to look into purchasing one of the high-end compact cameras below.
Sony RX100
Sensor: 20.1MP4 BSI-CMOS
Weight: 10.2 oz.
Features: Built-in Wifi, Built-in ND filter, 3″ LCD, ISO 160-12800, captures RAW & JPG
The sleek and slim design isn’t the only thing that makes the Sony
RX100 great…it also produces stunning image quality. Get remarkable
photos in almost any light thanks to its lens that reduces ghost and
flare and its ISO 125 to 6400 sensitivity. Never miss a moment again, as
the high-performance lens and large image sensor can allow you to
capture fast-moving objects even in low light. Whether you’re a beginner
or an amateur photographer, you’ll love the sophistication of the Sony
RX100.
Check Price Now
Panasonic Lumix LX100
Sensor size: 16.8MP 4/3″ MOS
Weight: 13.9 oz.
Features: 24-75mm Leica DC lens, 4K Ultra HD video
Let your creativity run wild with the Panasonic Lumix LX100. This
legendary series has produced the perfect camera for your next
adventure. 4K photos and 30p 4K ultra HD videos are just the beginning
of this amazing hybrid photo experience. The eye-level viewfinder
provides stable and clear framing, and an external flash is even
included to improve light quality. Thoughtful features like the 11 FPS
burst shooting and stop motion animation make for a photography
experience you won’t want to miss.
Check Price Now
Canon Powershot G16
Sensor size: 12.1MP 1/1.7″ CMOS
Weight: 12.5 oz.
Features: Built-in wifi, full manual mode, captures RAW & JPG
Offering a system that’s designed to reduce noise and enhance
clarity, the Canon Powershot G16 remains the best digital camera for
travel and makes photos come alive. Share your amazing pictures with
your friends, family, and the world almost instantly with the built-in
Wi-Fi. You can even program your own settings so the camera works
perfectly for you. After a picture is snapped, it can be printed in just
minutes thanks to Canon’s Direct Print system. With countless features
and settings coupled with amazing images, it should come as no surprise
that the Canon Powershot G16 is one of the best travel cameras on the
market.
Check Price Now
Best Mirrorless Travel Cameras
Mirrorless cameras are by far the best for travel, allowing you to take very high quality images while still being compact enough to fit into your backpack. This type of camera is perfect for people who still want an interchangeable lens, without the weight of a DSLR. Below, we picked the best mirrorless cameras for travel.
Fuji X-T20
Sensor size: 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III
Weight: 13.4 oz.
Features: Water and dust resistant, up to 8 FPS continuous shooting, 3″ tiltable LCD
Never miss the perfect angle again with the Fuji X-T20. The LCD and
touch-screen monitor tilts to ensure you can shoot pictures from
whatever position you want, and you have eight effects available to make
unique and exciting photos. Not only can you add photo effects, but
film simulation modes are available as well, giving you the opportunity
to add and change the effects and settings of your 4K videos.
Convenience is one of the highlights of the Fuji X-T20 as the free app
allows you to control the camera remotely while also being able to view
and transfer camera images. It’s hard to find fault with a camera as
great as the Fuji X-T20.
Check Price Now
Sony A7 II
Sensor size: 24MP CMOS
Weight: 20.8 oz.
Features: Fast Hybrid AF and 5 FPS burst, world’s first 5-axis in-body image stabilization in a full-frame camera, ISO 100-25600
Camera-shake is essentially a thing of the past with the Sony A7 II.
The world’s first full-frame camera with a five-axis in-body
stabilization allows you to capture exquisite images with its 24.3MP
resolution. Focusing speed has been improved by about 30% with the new
hybrid autofocus system so you can grab the perfect image before it
passes. Apps allow you to personalize your experience with everything
from time lapse to detailed close-ups. With all that and more, the best
mirrorless camera for travel continues to live up to all the hype.
Check Price Now
Sony Alpha a6000
Sensor size: 24MP APS-C CMOS
Weight: 12.6 oz.
Features: Hybrid AF with 179-point focal plane phase-detection, up to 11 FPS continuous shooting
Premium quality is at its finest with the Sony Alpha a6000. Enjoy the
world’s fastest autofocus while you can capture 11 pictures in one
second. The camera is super intuitive and even has two quick-access
dials so you can change your settings in a snap. 24.3MP detail will
complement all of your photos and the Wi-Fi connectivity makes sharing
your masterpieces a breeze. Boasting top-of-the-line quality while being
half the size and weight of most DSLRs makes this camera a proven
winner.
Check Price Now
Best DSLR Travel Cameras
DSLR cameras offer the best image quality of any type of camera but they are also heavier and more expensive than mirrorless or point-and-shoot cameras. If you need superior image quality and don’t mind the extra weight, check out our favorite DSLR’s below.
Canon Rebel SL2
Sensor size: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS
Weight: 13.1 oz.
Features: 3″ touch panel LCD, ISO 100-12800 (expandable to 25600)
Need some help capturing the perfect photo? The Canon Rebel SL2 comes
equipped with a Feature Assistant to coach you through experimenting
with all the different features and taking remarkable photos. Its
lightweight body makes it easy to travel with while still being able to
capture professional looking images. Excellent for vloggers and
documentarians, the Canon Rebel SL2 has an external microphone input to
ensure clear and high-quality sound. You’re sure to step your photo game
up when you choose the Canon Rebel SL2.
Check Price Now
Nikon D3400
Sensor size: 24.2MP CMOS
Weight: 15.2 oz.
Features: 11 AF points with 3D tracking, ISO 100-12800 (expandable to 25600), 3″ LCD
Capturing fast action is no longer a game of luck with the best Nikon
travel camera, the D3400. Grab 5 FPS continuously with an amazing
autofocus performance, and create a thrilling photo sequence from your
fast action shots. Your stunning photography will be ready to share
almost instantly as SnapBridge automatically transfers your camera
pictures to your compatible tablet or smartphone. With features ranging
from a 24.2MP sensor to a native ISO range from 100–25,600 to flawless
low-light photos, the Nikon D3400 is a gateway to improved photography.
All the small details will come into perfect focus with the Nikon D3400.
Check Price Now
Best Action Cameras for Travel
The best camera for travel photography needs to take high quality pictures and be versatile. If that’s what you’re looking for and you want to give others a front row seat to your adventures, then an action camera is what you need. While you’re ziplining across a canyon, cliff jumping, canyoning, or surfing, your action camera will capture all of the exhilarating moments. Because they’re designed to be attached to helmets, bikes, and other moving objects, it’s often considered the best lightweight camera for travel. A lot can be packed into a small action camera, so we want you to know which ones are the absolute best for your next journey.
GoPro HERO6
Sensor size: 12MP
Weight: 4.2 oz.
Features: Waterproof, RAW photo capture, Advanced video stabilization
Unquestionably the best waterproof travel camera, the GoPro Hero6 is
waterproof down to 33 feet without a housing. Delivering twice the
performance of its previous model, this updated camera provides
dramatically improved image quality. Voice control, three microphones,
and a 2-inch touch display make it easier than ever to capture the best
of your travels. With 12 MP photos and 4K60 and 1080p240 video, there’s
no better way to make your adventures come to life than with the GoPro
Hero6.
Check Price Now
YI 4K+
Sensor size: 12MP
Weight: 3.2 oz.
Features: 4K/60fps Resolution, EIS, Live Stream, Voice Control
The world’s first action camera to record 4K/60 FPS video is also
consistently known as the best camera for adventure travel. 12 MP photos
can be captured in four different modes so pictures come out exactly as
you want them to. Features like voice control, RAW image capture, and
live streaming are only the beginning. With an impressive battery life,
videos can be recorded for up to 70 minutes. In addition, its USB-C
power connector allows for faster data transfer and more efficient power
delivery. If you love action cameras with continual updates and
improvements to give you the best quality, the YI 4K+ is the best camera
to buy for travel.
Check Price Now
Best 360 Cameras for Travel
Don’t miss a moment of your next adventure with a 360-degree camera. No longer do we have to turn around in a circle with our phones to make a 360-degree image for Facebook or stitch together panoramic shots because the best 360-degree cameras solve those problems. With no extra processing needed, 360-degree cameras capture almost every angle of the sphere around us and produce high-quality images and videos. Many are small and lightweight, so to help you narrow your choices, here are the best 360-degree cameras.
Insta360 One
Sensor size: 24MP
Weight: 8 oz.
Features: UHD 4K video, SmartTrack auto-framing, 360 live-steaming
When looking for the best camera for traveling it can be hard for one to stand out, but the Insta360 One does just that. Providing 4K video and live streaming along with 24 MP photos, the endless feature list includes favorites like the all-new bullet technology, FreeCapture, and six-axis stabilization. Amazing shots become effortless with the bullet technology while the Insta360 One captures every angle around you sending an impressive 240 FPS video to your app. Plus, you’ll never miss another moment trying to focus your camera with the FreeCapture feature. Shoot your videos first, then go back and capture the highlights on your phone later. It’s premium performance, resolution, and stability make it one of the best travel cameras on the market.
Check Price Now
Samsung Gear 360
Sensor size: 8.4MP Dual CMOS
Weight: 4.5 oz.
Features: UHD 4K video, IP53 water-resistant rating
While there are many good cameras for travel on the market, this one sets itself apart as one of the best. Redesigned so it’s smaller than a baseball and easy to grip, the Samsung Gear 360 is a dust and water-resistant camera made to capture your best moments. You can throw out all your special lenses when you buy the Samsung Gear 360 because the app allows you to choose from five viewing modes to create sensational photography. As a 360 camera weighing in at only 130g, yet still having a battery life of more than two hours and up to 256 GB of expandable memory, it’s been called the best small camera for travel. Heading on an adventure and needing the best affordable camera for travel? The Samsung Gear 360 is one of the greatest options you’ll find.
Check Price Now
Ricoh Theta S
Sensor size: 12MP
Weight: 4.8 oz.
Features: Full HD video at 30fps
This third generation camera has been improved to exceed user
expectations. Create everything from still images to 25-minute videos
with impeccable quality. Storage and Wi-Fi are only two of the features
that have been improved, and now you’ll have 8 GB of storage and a Wi-Fi
speed of 8Mbps. Weighing around 125g, it maintains its spot of the list
of the best small cameras for travel. If you’re looking for a super
functional camera that’s easy to use, check out the Ricoh Theta S.
Check Price Now
Best Drones for Travel
Offering perspectives that used to only be accessible by helicopters, drones have changed the way we capture views around the world. Perfect for everything from capturing vacation fun to creating a travel documentary, it’s no surprise everyone wants one. Since not all drones are created equal, we’ve listed the ones that will give you the best quality and will be the easiest to carry on your adventures.
DJI Mavic Pro
Sensor size: 12MP CMOS
Weight: 1.64 lbs.
Features: True 4K, up to 4.3 miles (7km) of transmission range
Effortlessly create professional videos with the DJI Mavic Pro. Packed with fantastic technology, it folds down to the size of a bottle of water making it super easy to carry. Offering a transmission range of more than four miles, it can fly 40mph up to 27 minutes. Its premium technology and redundant sensors increase safety and ensure accurate positioning. Smooth footage is guaranteed with its 4K stabilized camera that boasts 12 megapixels and a maximum exposure time of eight seconds. The best high-end travel camera is here, and it’s the DJI Mavic Pro.
Check Price Now
DJI Phantom 4
Sensor size: 12MP CMOS
Weight: 1.65 lbs.
Features: Capture 4K ultra HD video at 30 fps, intelligent flight support systems
Simply double tap and the DJI Phantom 4 will take off. With another tap of the finger, it’ll return home. Once called DJI’s sexiest drone, the sleek design coupled with its features, makes the Phantom 4 a dream come true. It’s never been easier to create remarkable footage, as this drone is able to capture 4K videos at 30 frames per second and slow motion 1080p at 120 frames per second. Fly the Phantom 4 for up to 28 minutes at 45 mph, and its stabilization system makes unwanted camera movements a thing of the past. At this price point with all the features it offers, you can’t go wrong with the DJI Phantom 4.
Check Price Now
DJI Spark
Sensor size: 12MP CMOS
Weight: 1.49 lbs.
Features: ActiveTrack, HD Wi-Fi Video Transmission
Featuring all of DJI’s signature technologies, this mini drone allows you to capture moments whenever and wherever they arise. With facial recognition software, your drone will take off from your hand by only recognizing your face and can return to its home point automatically with a tap of a button or when it senses its battery’s low. Capture 720p real-time video from more than a mile away with its impressive transmission range. It can capture up to 16 minutes of magic before it needs a recharge, and when it returns home you’ll know you made the right choice with the DJI Spark.
Check Price Now