This is a guide covering the best travel cameras.
Before we give you a list of top travel cameras, it’s a good idea to know what makes a good travel camera. First and foremost, you want to look into the quality of the photos and videos.
If it’s not even as good as your smartphone, then you shouldn’t go for it. The best travel cameras should give you high-quality shots and at least a 1080 video resolution.
Second, you also want to look into the size of the camera. If you think that a DSLR travel camera is too heavy, then maybe you should switch to a mirrorless travel camera instead.
Third, if you are particular about shooting videos, a video travel camera should be easy to use with or without a tripod or a gimbal.
It means the camera body needs to have a stabilization feature on its own.
And of course, you also want to look into lens availability. Some cameras offer better lens options than others.
As for the other features of the best travel cameras, we’d say that it’s a matter of preference.
Some people are particular about transferring files from their cameras to their devices wirelessly while others prefer having user-friendly buttons and controls.
A lot of travelers want to capture moments in either photos or videos. Though modern smartphones took a huge leap in producing high-quality videos and photos in the past years, nothing beats a camera.
Top travel cameras can be point-and-shoot cameras, DSLRs, or mirrorless cameras.
To give you an idea about the best travel cameras in the market, we’ve come up with a list that you can choose from.
In a hurry? Here’s a quick rundown:
- ⭐ Best Overall Travel Camera
- 🌍 Best Canon Travel Cameras
- 🌍 Best Nikon Travel Camera
- 🌍 Best Leica Travel Camera
- 🌍 Best Olympus Travel Cameras
- 🌍 Best Sony Travel Cameras
- 🌍 Best Panasonic Travel Cameras
- 💸 Best Budget Travel Camera
How to Choose the Best Travel Camera?
Portability: Look for a camera that is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry with you on the go.
Image quality: Consider the camera’s sensor size, image resolution, and lens quality. A larger sensor will generally produce better image quality, and a high resolution allows for larger prints and more detailed images.
Zoom capability: If you want to take photos from a distance, a camera with a good zoom range can be useful. Look for a camera with at least a 10x zoom or a camera that has interchangeable lenses.
Video capabilities: If you plan on shooting video on your travels, look for a camera that shoots high-quality video, such as 4K.
Ease of use: Look for a camera that is intuitive and easy to use, with clear controls and menu options. Some cameras have touchscreens, which can be helpful for navigation and shooting.
Battery life: When traveling, you don’t want to be constantly looking for an outlet to charge your camera. Look for a camera with good battery life, especially if you plan on doing a lot of shooting.
Price: Consider your budget when choosing a travel camera. You can find good options at a variety of price points, so determine what you’re willing to spend before making a decision.
Table of Contents
10 Best Travel Cameras
1. Nikon Z 6II
Camera specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 6048 x 4024
- Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 100-51200 (expands to 50-204800)
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Touch screen: Yes
- USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (mini HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (via MC-DC2 or smartphone)
- Video modes(only a few mentioned here):
- 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
- 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
- 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Looking at the bigger picture, the Nikon Z 6II FX-Format Mirrorless Camera is the best pick if you are going to consider its features, weight, and quality of its video and photos.
For starters, it has a 24.5MP BSI sensor. It has a high-speed shooting capability and a buffer capacity that doesn’t lag.
It also captures 4K videos which makes it a favorite among professional video content creators. And even if you don’t have a tripod or a gimbal with you, this lens is still easy to use.
It also comes with dual processors and two card slots.
All of these features make the Nikon Z 6II FX-Format Mirrorless Camera a top contender when compared with some of the best travel cameras in the market today.
It is even considered by many as the best mirrorless travel camera given all these things that we’ve mentioned.
Even if it has a near-perfect design, let’s try to be objective with this camera.
If there is anything that you might not like, it’s the real-time view that’s only available when you use the full manual mode.
My Pros With This Camera:
- 4K Video
- 2 processors
- 2 card slots
- High-quality photos
- With the image stabilization feature
My Cons With This Camera:
- The real-time view is only available in manual mode
2. Panasonic LUMIX GX85 4K
Camera specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 4592 x 3448
- Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 160, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800, 25600
- Image stabilization: No
- Touch screen: Yes
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI TypeD)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Video modes: 3840 x 2160 (30, 25, 24, 20fps) 1920 x 1080 (60, 50, 30, 25fps) 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25fps), 640 x 480 (30, 25 fps)
Whether you’re a beginner or someone who doesn’t want to invest in pro-grade cameras since you are only taking photos and videos as a hobbyist, then you might consider getting the Panasonic Lumix GX85.
It’s a 16MP camera that might sound a bit too underwhelming for users looking for the best travel cameras. But in reality, it’s compensated in other areas.
For instance, many consider it the ideal video travel camera. One, it’s lighter than most DSLRs out there.
Also, it can record 4K videos plus it has a superb image stability feature that allows steady shots whether you are taking photos or videos.
The worst part about the camera is the small viewfinder. You’d most likely squint your eyes if you’re shooting with this camera.
The battery life is not exactly the best too. You might want to get an extra battery with you whenever you are shooting.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Shoots 4K videos
- The superior image stabilization feature
- Lightweight
My Cons With This Camera:
- The battery life is mediocre
- The viewfinder is hard to use
3. OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III
Camera specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
- Image ratio: w:h 4:3
- ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands to 64-25600)
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Touch screen: Yes
- 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 (wired or smartphone)
- Video modes(only a few mentioned here):
- 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 237 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
- 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
- 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
- 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Are you traveling to places where you will be exposed to different weather conditions? Then perhaps, you need a travel camera that is designed for such.
The Olympus OM-D EM1 Mark III is the perfect example of a tough travel camera.
It’s a stand-out that comes with a dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof weather-sealed design.
It can shoot at 60fps and is powered by a 20MP micro four-thirds sensor. It also comes with an impressive 121-point all-cross-type phase AF.
It also comes with dual SD card slots making it easy to shoot a lot of photos and videos. Just like its predecessor, this can take 4K videos.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Weighs around 1.3 pounds
- Superb image stabilization perfect for handheld shots
- Sharp image quality
- Durable and robust design
My Cons With This Camera:
- Small sensor
4. OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Camera specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
- Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 200-25600, expands to 64-25600
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Touch screen: Yes
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (wired and via smartphone)
- Video modes(only a few mentioned here):
- 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 237 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
- 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
- 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
- 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a handy option. Aside from being compact, it is also weather-sealed making it a great choice if you are going to deal with changing weather conditions when you are traveling.
This camera can take magnificent photos thanks to its 20MP live MOS sensor.
It also comes with a fast and accurate ability to find subjects thanks to its 121-point all-cross-type on-chip phase-detection AF.
This camera can also capture moving subjects with ease with its 30fps shooting ability.
And in case you are working with a telephoto or you don’t have a tripod with you, it has an in-body image stabilization feature that can minimize shakes.
And if you are looking for a decent video travel camera, then maybe this is something that you might want to consider.
This camera can take smooth C4K videos with or without a tripod or a gimbal.
Even if it’s a decent choice for people who are looking for something that can take good photos, it’s not a pro camera.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Great stabilization feature
- 4K videos
- Quick and accurate AF
- Weather-sealed design
My Cons With This Camera:
- Doesn’t produce pro-quality images
5. Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Camera specifications:
- Body type: Mid-size SLR
- Max resolution: 6240 x 4160
- Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 100-40000 (expands to 50-102400)
- Image stabilization: No
- Touch screen: Yes
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (Mini-HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (wired, wireless or smartphone)
- Video modes(only a few mentioned here):
- 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 60 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
- 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 30 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
- 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 12 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II makes a good DSLR travel camera for several good reasons. Powered by a 26.2 MP CMOS sensor, and a 45-point all-cross-type AF system, this camera is a great choice even if it’s considered a bit old by today’s standards.
This model came out around five years after its predecessor, it works similarly to the older Canon DSLR.
Even if it doesn’t come with a 4K video capability, its strength is mainly in taking photos.
Just imagine having the ability to shoot without any issues whether it’s a low light situation or if you’re dealing with a moving subject.
It can take up to 6.5 fps and with an ISO sensitivity of from ISO 100 to ISO 40,000.
It nails everything you need in a travel camera, but it is simply not a good choice if you are a video content creator and you are particular about shooting 4K videos.
And if you’re particular about wirelessly transferring your photos, it can transfer files via Bluetooth and WiFi.
Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon 6D Mark II.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Sharp photos and dynamic range
- Great for low-light situations and moving subjects
- Fast and accurate AF
- Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity
My Cons With This Camera:
- Doesn’t have 4K capability
6. Canon EOS R5
Camera specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 8192 x 5464
- Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Yes, 100-51200 (expands to 102400)
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Touch screen: Yes
- USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 GBit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes
- Video modes(only a few mentioned here):
- 8192 x 4320 @ 30p / 1,300 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
- 8192 x 4320 @ 24p / 1,300 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
- 8192 x 4320 @ 23.98p / 1,300 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
The Canon EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera is at the top of any professional photographer’s list of best travel cameras.
This camera is equipped with a powerful 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor, a high-speed continuous shooting capability at 12fps that can even reach 20fps with its electronic shutter, and the ability to take 8K videos.
It is also easy to use as it comes with a 5-axis image stabilizer.
It means photographers can minimize blurred shots even if they are shooting handheld without the help of a tripod. And also, its AF is fast and accurate.
Finding a flaw in this camera is a bit difficult. But so far, the battery life is not as impressive as it should be.
You might want to have an extra battery in case you are going to rely on the EOS R5 whenever you are traveling.
Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon EOS R5.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Locates the subject without difficulty
- Sharp photos
- Can take 8K videos
- Equipped with an image stabilizer
My Cons With This Camera:
- Battery life is short
7. Sony Alpha a7 II
Camera specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
- Image ratio: w:h 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: 100-25600
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Touch screen: No
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/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)
- Video modes: 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
Making a list of the best travel cameras won’t be complete without the Sony Alpha a7 II camera. It’s a camera that first came out in 2014.
And yes, it’s been a while since this camera came out, but one thing about the Sony A7 II is that it is something that can still compete against newer mirrorless cameras.
It is the first full-frame camera that offered 5-axis image stabilization. It has a 24.3MP resolution, a fast hybrid AF that is slightly faster than the A7, plus it’s lightweight.
Unfortunately, since it’s an older mirrorless camera, you also have to deal with older features.
It only comes with 1080 video capability which is sometimes a deal-breaker for some travel vloggers and other video content creators.
Also, check out the best lenses for the Sony A7II.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Has an image stabilization feature
- Lightweight
- Takes magnificently sharp photos with dynamic colors
- Decent AF speed
My Cons With This Camera:
- Can only shoot up to 1080p
8. Sony RX100 III
Camera specifications:
- Body type: Compact
- Max resolution: 5472 x 3648
- Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 125-12800
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Touch screen: No
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
- Microphone port: No
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (with RM-VPR1 wired remote)
- Video modes: 1920 x 1080 (60p/60i/24p), 1280 x 720 (60p/30p/24p/120p), 1440 x 1080 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps)
If you’re the type of person who finds switching lenses a bit too taxing and stressful when traveling, then you might want to consider a compact camera such as the Sony RX100 III.
This camera can make it one of the best travel cameras considering the image quality, size, and overall great performance that it offers users.
For starters, it has a 20.9MP 1″ Exmor R CMOS sensor. It can give users up to 2.9 optical zooms when doing movie recording.
Plus, it can take up to 10fps. These features make it a favorite of those who want a handy but powerful travel camera. It also comes with a 3-inch tiltable LCD making it easier to shoot awkward angles.
And since you are going to be shooting handheld, its steady-shot image stabilization makes everything easier.
What’s not to like? Well, for starters, it’s only good for outside shots. It’s terrible in low-light situations.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Tiltable LCD
- With 2.9 optical zoom
- Great quality shots outdoors
- Compact design
My Cons With This Camera:
- Doesn’t do well in low-light situations
9. Leica D-Lux 7
Camera specifications:
- Body type: Large sensor compact
- Max resolution: 4736 x 3552
- Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to 100)
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Touch screen: Yes
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI)
- Microphone port: No
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
- Video modes(only a few mentioned here):
- 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
- 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
- 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
- 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
Leica for the average photography hobbyist feels like an intimidating brand. But in reality, it’s not exactly hard to use. The Leica D-Lux 7 Digital Camera is an example of this.
It comes with a 17MP 4/3rds sensor that performs well not only outdoors but even indoors. Its lens is also handy for most situations. It has a 24-75mm F1.7-2.8 lens that can shoot well whenever you’re traveling.
Aside from these features, another reason to have it included in the list of best travel cameras is its quick operations.
It has a superb AF that easily tracks subjects. It also comes with an LCD that allows you to get the right setting for your needs.
Unfortunately, the dials and the many settings need a bit of time to figure out.
You might want to watch a YouTube tutorial or spend some time exploring the camera if you want to maximize the full potential of the Leica D-Lux 7 Digital Camera.
My Pros With This Camera:
- High-quality shots
- Touchscreen LCD
- Great for outdoors and indoors
My Cons With This Camera:
- A bit too complicated for some users
10. Panasonic LUMIX LX100 4K
Camera specifications:
- Body type: Large sensor compact
- Max resolution: 4112 x 3088
- Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands to 100-25600)
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Touch screen: No
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
- Microphone port: No
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: No
- Video modes: 3840 x 2160 (30p, 24p), 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 30p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (30p), 640 x 480
Panasonic Lumix LX100 is a powerful point-and-shoot camera that can give you magnificent photos as well as videos during your trip.
12.8MP might not seem a lot, especially when compared with smartphones today. However, this camera is perfect for different travel scenarios.
It comes with a powerful lens that has a wide aperture (F1.7-2.8), perfect for shooting portraits or when you are shooting indoors.
This can also take 4K videos making it a favorite of many travel vloggers. It even has image stabilization making the camera easy to use even when you don’t have a gimbal.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Can take 4K videos
- Wide aperture
- Easy to use and handy
- With optical image stabilization
My Cons With This Camera:
- 12.8MP might not be enough for some photographers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth getting a camera for travel?
It depends on your specific needs and interests. If you are someone who enjoys capturing memories of your travels and wants high-quality photos, a dedicated camera can be worth it.
Do film cameras get ruined through TSA?
There is a risk that film cameras can get damaged during TSA screening or in transit. X-ray machines used by TSA can expose the film to radiation, which can affect the quality of your images. However, TSA does offer the option to request a manual inspection of film cameras.
Is it worth getting a camera for travel?
It depends on personal preferences and needs. If you enjoy capturing memories of your travels and want high-quality photos, a dedicated camera can be worth it.
Is a DSLR or mirrorless camera better for travel?
If you prioritize convenience and portability, a mirrorless camera may be a better choice, while if you need a wider selection of lenses and accessories and better battery life, a DSLR may be a better option.
Final Remarks
Taking photos and videos of your travel experiences can be fun if you have the right camera with you.
Unfortunately, there are lots of cameras out there that can make the selection process too challenging.
We’ve featured a variety of options ranging from DSLRs to point-and-shoot cameras that stand out in today’s market.
Some of these cameras have been around for quite some time but could still give users great results.
I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Nate Torres is a portrait photographer based in Southern California. Outside of photography, Nate specializes in SEO, content marketing, and entrepreneurship. He is also the founder of Imaginated.com, a platform for creator education.
