10 Best Cameras for Hiking & Backpacking (2023 Ultimate Guide)

This is a guide covering the best cameras for hiking and backpacking.

A lot of people today want to go outdoors and do nature photography.

The problem with outdoor activities such as hiking is that you will have to deal with the elements plus, you have to be smart with how much weight you are going to carry with you.

This is why DSLRs are not exactly the most practical choice if you are doing nature photography and I’ve listed mostly mirrorless cameras which are often a lot lighter in weight.

If you ever considered doing outdoor photography, here are some of the best cameras for hiking and backpacking.

In a hurry? Here’s a quick rundown:

• ⭐ Best Overall Camera for Hiking & Backpacking
  • Panasonic LUMIX S5

• 📷 Best Mirrorless Cameras for Hiking & Backpacking
  • Panasonic LUMIX S5
  • Canon EOS M50
  • Nikon Z5
  • Sony a7R IV

• 📷 Best DSLR Cameras for Hiking & Backpacking
  • Nikon D5600
  • Canon 5D Mark IV

• 📷 Best Action Camera for Hiking & Backpacking
  • GoPro HERO8 Black

• 💸 Best Budget Camera for Hiking & Backpacking
  • Canon EOS M50

How to Choose the Best Camera for Hiking & Backpacking?

Weight and size: A camera that is lightweight and compact will be easier to carry on a hike or backpack trip. Cameras such as the Panasonic LUMIX GX85, Canon EOS M50, Sony a7 III, and Fujifilm X-S10 are relatively lightweight and easy to carry on a hike or backpack trip.

Durability: A camera that is built to withstand rugged conditions is ideal for hiking and backpacking. Cameras such as the GoPro HERO8 Black, Panasonic LUMIX G9, Sony a7R IV, and Nikon Z5 are built to withstand rugged conditions and are good options for hiking and backpacking.

Image quality: A camera that produces high-quality images is crucial for capturing the beauty of nature. Cameras such as the Sony a7R IV, Panasonic LUMIX GH5, and Nikon Z5 are known for producing high-quality images and are good options for capturing the beauty of nature.

Battery life: A camera with long battery life is important for hiking and backpacking, as you may not have access to an outlet to charge your camera. Cameras such as the Panasonic LUMIX G9, Sony a7 III, and Fujifilm X-S10 have good battery life, making them good options for hiking and backpacking.

Weather-sealing: If you plan on using the camera in inclement weather, it’s important to choose a camera that is weather-sealed. Cameras such as the Sony a7R IV, Panasonic LUMIX G9, and Nikon Z5 are weather-sealed and suitable for use in inclement weather.

10 Best Cameras for Hiking & Backpacking

1. Panasonic LUMIX S5

The best camera for hiking and backpacking is the Panasonic LUMIX S5.

If you have the money to invest in the best gear, we’d suggest that you stick with the Panasonic LUMIX S5. It is a pro camera that you can bring to your hiking activity.

The Panasonic LUMIX S5 is a lightweight and hybrid camera that combines everything you love about full-frame cameras minus the weight.

It can take videos in 4K and even in 180fps slow-mo. It comes in with a powerful 96MP high-resolution mode giving you vivid images as you shoot.

It also does well in low light with its Dual Native ISO which helps a lot in minimizing unwanted digital noise.

Stabilization is another thing that makes it a top contender for the best camera for backpacking and hiking activities.

For stabilization, it has a built-in 5-axis Dual I.S. that keeps your shots less shaky minimizing wasted shots and allowing the video to be less annoying if you don’t have a gimbal.

And lastly, you can also transfer files via WiFi.

You get to enjoy the manual controls if you are a professional. However, the biggest turn-off is it doesn’t have the best autofocus.

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2. GoPro HERO8 Black

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: VR/Action Camera
• Image stabilization: Digital only
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• Microphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In

If you are on a budget and you want the best bang for your buck, then you might take a closer look at the GoPro Hero8 Black.

It is a notch lower than the latest GoPro and that’s the best part about this camera.
It comes with a more pocketable design that can easily fit inside your jacket or bag.

But unlike the other cameras that we’ve featured, it isn’t designed for outdoor photography. GoPro Hero 8 Black is a good choice if you plan on shooting videos.

It is a favorite among vloggers and pro filmmakers since it comes in with 4K recording capability. It also has a stabilization feature called Hypersmooth 2.0.

It gives the camera three levels for stabilization. Plus, you can also easily use accessories such as a microphone and LCD screens.

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3. Canon EOS M50

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
• ISO: Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
• Image stabilization: No
• Touch screen: Yes
• Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 120 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 60 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 30 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 30 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 120p / 52 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 60p / 26 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• USB charging: No
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)

For individuals tramping outdoors, it is a good idea to have a camera that is light and could easily be used in different situations.

For this scenario, we consider the Canon EOS M50 as a good choice. The EOS M50 is a fresh approach from Canon given the fact that they are known for DSLRs than mirrorless cameras. The M50 is a favorite of vloggers and photographers alike.

The EOS M50 is equipped with a 24.1 MP APS C CMOS sensor coupled with its DIGIC 8 image processor providing users with standout images with great details. Its user interface is also quite handy.

You get to have a vari-angle touchscreen that allows you to tweak the setup of your camera according to your preference. It can also provide users with a detailed 4K video. It brings a cinematic look making it a top choice for professional videographers.

So what makes it a good choice for tramping? Aside from its specs, it is also handy and lightweight. Plus, as a Canon camera, you get plenty of lenses to choose from whether you are into nature photography or shooting landscapes.

The biggest deal-breaker for the camera is that it has short battery life.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon M50.

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4. Panasonic LUMIX GH5

The Lumix GH 5 is a great option for mountain climbers who are also serious photographers. It gives you vivid images plus it allows you to shoot stunning videos in 4K.

The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is among the best cameras for hiking and backpacking but it can also be a bigger investment. This camera can be a bigger investment for beginners and hobbyists.

Let’s take a closer look at the specs. You get a 20.3MP micro four-thirds sensor coupled with a 5-axis dual I.S. that minimizes shaky videos and photos.

On top of that, it is lightweight which can come in handy when you are doing outdoor activities. It also performs well in low-light scenarios. The Lumix GH5 is a mixed bag of good and mediocre features.

But as far as mountain hiking is concerned, its construction is perfect for long hours of walking due to its weight.

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5. Panasonic LUMIX GX85

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Rangefinder-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 4592 x 3448
• ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to 100)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• Resolutions:
  • 3840 x 2160 (30p, 24p)
  • 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 30p, 24p)
  • 1280 x 720 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: No
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)

Panasonic Lumix GX85 is a small and powerful choice for those who are serious about hiking or other outdoor activities. Is it the best camera for backpacking?

Not exactly, but it is a good choice for those who are not willing to invest in mirrorless cameras.

The GX85 can be considered a mid-range mirrorless camera. It is powered by a 16MP micro four-thirds sensor that provides decent photos.

On top of that, it can also help minimize wasted shots thanks to its in-body 5-axis dual image stabilization. This works not only on photos but also on videos. If you are looking for a good 4K camera, you might want to include this on your list.

The only thing missing from this camera is a microphone jack. Though it can take 4K videos, the audio isn’t going to be as good.

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6. Nikon Z5

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6016 x 4016
• ISO: Auto, 100-51200 (expands to 50-102400)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)

The Nikon Z5 is considered by Nikon as their entry-level mirrorless camera. But compared with other cameras on our list, it comes in packed with features that can’t be categorized in the entry-level category.

For starters, it comes with a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor. Its hybrid AF system with 273 phase-detect points is also known for its accuracy when it comes to locating the subject.

As far as shooting videos are concerned, you get vivid 4K resolution, which is something preferred even by professional content creators on YouTube.

Another reason why it is most likely one of the best cameras for hiking is because of the body’s dust and moisture-sealed construction.

It also shoots in 4K, but it crops the video.

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7. Sony a7R IV

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 9504 x 6336
• ISO: Auto, ISO 100-32000 (expands to 50-102800)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)

The Sony a7R IV is a less popular option among photographers considering the underrated status of Sony when it comes to the digital photography industry.

However, there is no denying that the Sony A7R IV is one of the best full-frame mirrorless options that you can go for. It is easily one of the best cameras for hiking and backpacking given its construction and performance.

For starters, it weighs like a micro four-thirds but performs similarly to a DSLR. It comes with a 61MP full-frame sensor and with the ability to shoot at 10fps in its continuous shooting mode.

This makes it a good choice for those who are looking to shoot animals in the wild. Autofocus is also fast and accurate with its 567 phase-detection AF points.

Its advanced subject recognition feature goes for the eyes of its subjects regardless if it’s an animals or a human.

When it comes to shooting videos, it has a 4K resolution. You get vivid and detailed results whether you are shooting during the daytime or nighttime.

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8. Sony a7 III

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
• ISO: Auto, 100-51200
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 25 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 16 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Linear PCM
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI port with 4K still, uncompressed video output)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired)

If you loved the Sony A7R IV, you might take a closer look at the A7 III as well. It has a 24.2MP BSI full-frame image sensor that gives vivid colors to your shots.

This camera can shoot quietly at 10fps. It is also known for performing well even in low-light scenarios with its ISO range from ISO 50 to 204,800. It also shoots in 4K at both 24p and 30p.

Based on its specs, it is among the best cameras for hiking especially if you are a serious photographer who takes a lot of landscapes and does nature photography.

It is a near-perfect camera however; it stops recording videos before the 30-minute mark which can be very frustrating.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Sony a7 III.

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9. Panasonic LUMIX G9

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
• ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands to 100-25600)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 60p / 150 Mbps, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 20 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
• USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• HDMI: Yes
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired or via smartphone)

The Panasonic Lumix G9 is one of the best cameras for hiking based on its construction and specs. It is a rugged camera that is known for its splash and freeze-proof design.

It has a durable magnesium alloy body that lets the camera shoot photos and videos even in extreme conditions. It can function even in negative 10-degree situations.

It has a 20.3MP micro four-thirds sensor capable of providing great results that can please both hobbyists and pros.

It is also made popular for its class-leading dual image stabilization feature that helps prevent wasted shots even if you are shooting without a tripod.

It can shoot 4K videos as well. Plus, you can also switch it up to full HD at 180 fps.

One thing that is a bit annoying is that it is hard to use during noontime. It makes it hard to see the viewfinder.

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10. Fujifilm X-S10

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6240 x 4160
• ISO: Auto, 160-12800 (expands to 80-51200)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• Modes
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 240p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone and wired remote)

Fujifilm X-S10 Mirrorless Camera is a great choice for on-the-go photographers. It is light and designed with ergonomics in mind.

It comes with a deep handgrip that can give you the confidence you need when shooting outdoors. But what makes it one of the best cameras for hiking is the fact that it is packed with a 26.1MP backside-illuminated sensor that provides high-quality and vivid colors.

The quad-core CPU for this camera comes in as a handy tool when it comes to its precision autofocus, It can locate the subject at 0.02 seconds.

And if you are someone with shaky hands, it has a 5-axis-in-body image stabilization system that lessens wasted shots and makes it easier to take videos.

If you are a fan of Fujifilm cameras, you might find it a more compact version of the X-H1. However, there are a few things that can be a bit annoying.

The biggest downside would have to be its battery life. Other than that, it’s a perfect camera for hiking and even for other outdoor trips.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Final Remarks

It can be a tough choice if you are in the market for the best cameras for hiking and other outdoor activities.

There are lots of choices that can overwhelm you even as a seasoned photographer. You just need to compare these cameras and see which one fits your needs.

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