One of the best travel camera should find a place in your carry-on if your upcoming major trip is one that calls for a postcard. Whether you’re zooming on a safari or shooting in the city, these portable tools are made to capture precise results while you’re on the go. With networking options that make it simple to share the results with friends and family, many can also capture clear video of your travels.
We believe that the OM System OM-5 is currently the best travel camera for the majority of people. It combines interchangeable lenses with smartphone-beating image quality, all while being housed in a weatherproof, portable body. Additionally, it offers innovative computational options to travel photographers and in-body image stabilisation for solid pictures with a best travel tripod.
For those who prefer the flexibility of changing lenses while on the road, this thorough list contains some of the best mirrorless cameras. Additionally, it discusses some of the top action cameras for folks that have daring travel schedules.
You’ll find the ideal choice here whether you want a dependable camera for recording memories or a serious instrument for shooting on the go. Under each camera, we’ve provided direct links to the best prices to aid in your search. You may find some more professional advice at the bottom of this page, which you should keep in mind when looking for a best travel camera.
The top camera for travelling in 2023
1. OM System OM-5
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensor: MFT 20.4MP Actual MOS3.0-inch touchscreen with a tilt angle and 1.04 million pixelsDisplay: OLED 2.36m-dotelectrical 30 frames per second; mechanical 10 frames per secondFilms: 4K/30pBeginner/Intermediate user level
Although the Olympus OM-5 only slightly improves the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, its combination of skills makes it an excellent travel camera in our opinion, especially if you want the versatility of interchangeable lenses. It crams a tonne of functions into a small, water-resistant body that works with a tonne of tiny lenses.
For its size, the OM-5 produces great video and still images, and its stabilisation technology helps you get a high hit-rate of keepers.In-camera software gimmicks like Live ND and in-camera focus stacking, which are great for macro images or blurring clouds, surf, and water for an ethereal look, were very pleasing to us. The relatively ordinary EVF resolution, the 4K/30p video restriction, and the relative limits of its smaller sensor are less desirable, but these are all reasonable trade-offs given the size and cost of this camera.
2. The Lumix ZS200/TZ200 from Panasonic
SPECIFICATIONS
1-inch sensor with 20.1 MP24-360mm lens, f/3.3-6.43.0-inch touchscreen with 1,240K dots.Seeing aid: EVF: 10 frames per secondVideos: 4KUBeginner/Intermediate ser level. Compact cameras need to stand out in order to earn a spot in your travel bag. With its substantial 1-inch sensor and functional 15x optical zoom, the ZS200/TZ200 achieves this.
Despite the smartphones’ improvements in multi-frame processing, its huge 1in sensor delivers images with higher natural image quality than the majority of them. According to our tests, colours are excellent and vivid, and the dynamic range enables you to post-process, if necessary, to restore lost shadow information. Vignetting and distortion are well under control, even at 24mm.
Additionally, a helpful integrated electronic viewfinder makes it simpler to compose pictures in bright light. This is still the greatest travel zoom small camera on the market today, however it is still pretty expensive.
3. The Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII
SPECIFICATIONS
1-inch sensor with 20.1 MP24-200mm lens, f/2.8-4.53.0-inch touchscreen with a tilt angle and 921K dotsSeeing aid: EVF90 frames per second, continuouslyVideos: 4KUser level: Advanced
The original RX100 from Sony was the first pocket-sized camera to include a huge 1-inch sensor, revolutionising premium compact cameras. They were always excellent for travel, but perhaps occasionally disregarded in favour of super-zoom competitors due to a relatively small zoom lens. Things started to change when we got to the RX100 VI, which coupled a much longer lens than ever before. Now, with the most recent RX100 VII model, we’ve seen some significant refinement.
Losing the ultra-wide aperture of earlier generations is the price of making the lens longer, but if you’re mostly going to be shooting in sunny locations, this generally won’t be a major concern. The RX100 VII has a plenty of power beneath the hood as well. It has both features that are less unusual, like a preposterous 90fps burst mode, and ones that are more typical, like 4K video.
While video quality is the finest you’ll find on a small, image quality is outstanding, with our testing revealing exceptional detail even at ISO settings in the middle of its sensitivity range. Although this model’s high asking price is a major drawback, if you want the best of the best for your travels, it can be worth the extra cost. If the RX100 VII’s asking price is out of your pricing range, check at more affordable previous models across the board.
4. Fujifilm X-T30 II
SPECIFICATIONS
26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensorCamera: N/AM3.0 inch touchscreen with 1,620 k dots2.36 million dots in the EVFmechanical 8 fps, electronic 20 fps continuous shootingFilms: 4K/30pBeginner/Intermediate user level
Even though the X-T30 II only slightly improves upon its predecessor, we don’t mind. If you want to switch lenses for various looks and shooting scenarios, the superb update to the original X-T30 is equally ideal for travel and regular shooting. Its main component is Fujifilm’s dependable 26.1MP APS-C sensor, but its major edge over competitors like the Nikon Zfc (below) is its selection of superb X-mount prime lenses.
The X-T30 II is not weather-resistant, despite the fact that many XF lenses are, and it lacks in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), which is a drawback. If you shoot primarily in daylight, this won’t be a big problem, but if you really need IBIS, it’s worth looking into the larger Fujifilm X-S10.
The X-T30 II is one of the greatest cameras for beginners and a great travel companion in general. Its outstanding sensor, good focusing, and reasonably quick shooting make it an all-arounder that is highly recommended for your city trips. It also delivered fantastic results in our tests.
5. Canon EOS R10
SPECIFICATIONS
24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor: RF mount lensMonitor: 2.95-inch touchscreen with articulation, 1.04 million dots2.36 m dots in the viewfinderAutofocus: area 651mechanical 15 fps, electronic 25 fps continuous shootingMovies: 60p in 4KUser Experience: Novice
Canon’s EOS R10 is a small mirrorless camera with up-to-date technology and a well-known sensor, just like its EOS R7 sister. With a Digic X engine within, the R10 delivers top focusing technology and 15fps burst shooting rates, so it offers a remarkable array of capabilities for beginning trip photographers. In our tests, the R10 demonstrated outstanding responsiveness and attention stickiness, making it the perfect tool for pulling out as action develops in front of you.
The R10’s lightweight design and fully articulating touchscreen give great versatility while shooting on the go, as we discovered during our time with the camera. In-body image stabilisation is a regrettable omission that increases the EOS R10’s drawbacks in low-light situations.
6. GoPro Hero 11 Black
SPECIFICATIONS
27MP 1/1.9″ CMOS sensorCamera: N/AM2.27-inch back touchscreen, 1.4-inch front screen, onitorObserver: None: 30 frames per second4.3K/60fps for moviesUser Experience: Novice
The GoPro Hero 11 Black, in our opinion, is the best action camera for travellers since it features a new 1/1.9in sensor with an 8:9 aspect ratio. Its maximum resolution of 5.3K/60p is the same as the Hero 10 Black, but if you prefer to share your exploits online, having the flexibility to reframe film without compromising quality is important. The ability to take 24.7MP still images from 5.3K footage as well as dramatic TimeWarps at 5.3K and raw bursts at 30fps is also useful.
The Hero 11 Black is physically identical as the Hero 10 Black, but it comes equipped with a bigger Enduro battery, extending the amount of time between on-the-go recharges. With ‘Easy’ and ‘Pro’ settings that may be adjusted to your skill level, its new UI allows you to customise the user experience. During testing, it proved to be a well-polished tool housed in a dependable casing.
7. Nikon Z fc
SPECIFICATIONS
20.9MP APS-C sensor with a Nikon Z mount lens3.0-inch touchscreen with a variable angle and 1,040K dots.2,360K-dot electronic viewfinder11 fps for continuous shooting4K at 30 frames per second for moviesLevel of user: Enthusiast
Travel photography is all about preserving memories, and Nikon’s Z fc completely embraces the idea of nostalgia. It is an exquisite homage to the 30-year-old Nikon FM2, complete with classic style, size, and controls. Despite its vintage appearance, the best travel camera is highly modern on the inside and shares many of its specifications with the powerful Nikon Z50.
Even though some photographers might want for a full-frame sensor, the Z fc’s APS-C sensor excels at taking still photos and 4K videos with the help of dependable tracking autofocus. In our tests, the 20.9MP sensor’s dynamic range was superb, and its handling of noise was excellent, especially below ISO 800.
Another great feature of this device is its multi-angle touchscreen, which makes it simple to take selfies while travelling or folds away completely for a leather-back appearance that lets you think you’re back in the 1980s. Compared to the camera it was modelled after, the Nikon Z fc isn’t as robust.
8. Fujifilm X100V
SPECIFICATIONS
26.1MP X-Trans CMOS sensor23mm, f/2 lens3.0-inch touchscreen with a tilt angle and 1.62 million dots.Seeing aid: EVF11 frames per second for mechanical cameras, 30 for electronic cameras.4 filmsLevel of user: Intermediate
A high-end compact camera with a fixed 23mm f/2 lens and a style influenced by analogue cameras from the 1950s? Sounds just like a niche market. However, the Fujifilm X100V is one of the greatest travel cameras you can buy if you don’t mind the fixed focal length and lack of a zoom.
The tiny form factor of the X100F is retained, and a very practical tilting touchscreen is added. Support for touchscreen motions and simpler photography from low or high angles are benefits.
9. Olympus PEN E-P7
SPECIFICATIONS
20MP Micro Four Thirds sensorMicro Four Thirds lens3.0-inch touchscreen display with 1,040K dotsObserver: None: 15 frames per second4K at 30 frames per second for moviesUser Experience: Novice
The Pen E-P7 is a new, portable mirrorless camera that borrows features and design cues from earlier Olympus models. Although its tried-and-true TruePic VIII engine won’t grab attention, its appealing retro appearance, streamlined design, and efficient five-axis image stabilisation make it an appealing option for novices and travellers.
While its video specifications won’t wow vloggers, the absence of a viewfinder may be a deal-breaker for some. It’s also unfortunate that the touchscreen can only tilt, rather than completely articulate, to provide for more framing options. However, the cost is a slim, fashionable body that weighs only 430g.
The E-P7 is more tempting than many full-frame competitors for street shooting in our tests because of its small size and bright, punchy still images, even though some older Olympus models provide superior overall value because to their lower price.
10. Fujifilm X-S10
SPECIFICATIONS
Size of sensor: APS-CR26.1MPViewfinder: 2.36 million dots3-inch touchscreen monitor with 1.04 million dots425-point hybrid autofocusMaximum continuous shooting rates: mechanical shutter at 8 fps and electronic shutter at 20 fps.Movies: 30p in 4KBeginner/intermediate user level
The Fujifilm X-S10 is one of those mirrorless cameras that really strikes the sweet spot of size, price, and features for most people. Although it is neither a basic camera nor as small as a high-end compact, you get a lot for your money. Additionally, the X-S10 is a fantastic, adaptable best travel camera that works well with most sorts of lenses.
Although the X-S10 isn’t officially weatherproof, its strong magnesium alloy construction will hold up well to life in a rucksack. Its broad grip makes for good handling whether you’re using one hand to carry it around or connecting a longer zoom lens.
Most notably, the APS-C sensor in the X-S10 offers the greatest image quality possible for a camera of this size, and it also works well for 4K video. Sony’s Real-time tracking AF edges out the autofocus, but our tests show that it is still quite reliable in the majority of circumstances.
11. Sony A7C
SPECIFICATIONS
24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensorthe E-mount lens2.95-inch touchscreen with a variable tilt and 921K dots2.35 m dots in the viewfinder: 10 frames per second4K at 30 frames per second for moviesBeginner/intermediate user level
The A7C has size and handling more equivalent to an APS-C camera than Sony’s other full-frame models. That makes it a very portable choice that is ideal for travel, especially when used in conjunction with the small 28-60mm kit lens. The A7 III, with which it shares a 24.2MP sensor, performs very identically to the A6600 despite mimicking its rangefinder style.
Less noteworthy is the tiny viewfinder, which we found difficult to operate while on the go as a natural consequence of the small body. During testing, it appeared that the A7C was primarily created for the vari-angle touchscreen. Fortunately, although having a low resolution, this is easy to use and useful for framing and vlogging.
12. Olympus TG-6
SPECIFICATIONS
12MP 1/2.3-inch sensor25-100mm lens, f/2-4.93.0-inch display with 1,040K dotsObserver: None: 20 frames per secondFilms: 4K/30pBeginner/intermediate user level
With its Tough series, Olympus arguably pioneered the robust small camera trend, and the TG-6 continues in that tradition. Even while innovation may have stalled, the Tough TG-6 is still among the greatest travel cameras available, and its abilities to withstand cold, shock, and water are undeniable.
In our tests, its industrial design felt reassuringly tough, with (somewhat difficult) catch mechanisms that guard the ports. Large buttons make it easy to use underwater, and the upgraded 3-inch LCD display now provides reasonable visibility in most circumstances.
Although there was a propensity to overexpose and blow out highlights, we thought the image quality to be respectable for a camera with a 1/2.3-inch sensor, with excellent, rich colours. It is reasonable to have an equivalent zoom range of 25-100mm, and the addition of 4K video and raw shooting increases flexibility.
13. Cyber-shot RX10 IV from Sony
SPECIFICATIONS
1-inch-type, 20.2MP sensor24-600mm lens, f/2.4-43.0-inch touchscreen with a tilt angle and 1.44 million dotsSeeing aid: EVF24-frame-per-second recording:4 filmsAdvanced/Intermediate user level
The RX10 IV checks a lot of boxes in terms of having something for everyone. The advantage of never having to change lenses is similar to having a bag full of lenses. The lens has a relatively broad zoom range (from 24 to 600 mm), and its maximum aperture is very uniform across the entire length of the lens.
The RX10 IV’s sensor may not be as huge as those on mirrorless or DSLR cameras, but Sony’s 20.1MP 1-inch chip impressed us with its performance in our testing. You wouldn’t have any trouble printing an A3 page from one of its files because the noise was well-controlled.
How to pick your personal best travel camera
Finding cheap flights can be easier than choosing the ideal vacation camera. You’ll need a shooting device that is portable enough to take with you on trips but still has the ability to record crystal-clear still images and steady video of your travels.
When selecting the ideal vacation camera, there are a few important considerations to bear in mind. Size is one of the most crucial factors. While portable compacts are convenient, the larger sensors of larger mirrorless models will improve the quality of your travel photos.
Consider with best travel camera tough qualities if your activities require venturing off the usual path. This might be one of the best action cameras, comparable to the GoPro Hero 11 Black, and ideal for making short, stylish vacation videos. Alternatively, it might be a tough compact like the Olympic TG-6, one of the best waterproof cameras.
It’s important to consider the potential subjects for your photography while away. While something lightweight and quick is preferable for taking street photos while on a city trip, a long zoom range will be useful when on safari.
Which kind of camera is most suitable for travel?
There are many different sizes and designs of travel cameras. What you want to photograph, how you prefer to travel, and how much gear you’re prepared to carry along will all determine which type is best for you.
Travel zoom compacts, like the Panasonic Lumix ZS200/TZ200, are pocket-friendly while still providing a wide field of view for photographing a variety of situations. They allow you to go close to the action or take wide shots due to their generous zoom ranges. In exchange for all of this flexibility in a small chassis, the sensor is typically smaller and less effective for low-light photography.
Premium tiny cameras could be a good option if you prefer clean proportions but don’t require the versatility of a zoom lens. Zoom range is sacrificed in models like the Fujifilm X100V favour of larger, better-lit sensors, which are typically one-inch or, in the case of the X100V, an APS-C chip.
Which mirrorless camera is the Best Travel Camera?
For travel, mirrorless cameras are excellent. The best mirrorless travel cameras still have very small bodies that are simple to handle while on the go, despite the fact that they are larger than premium compact cameras. Additionally, they have bigger sensors than smartphones or compacts, so they work better at night. Additionally, replaceable lenses provide you more creative freedom even though they are less portable than an all-in-one zoom barrel.
The Fujifilm X-S10, which balances size, cost, and performance perfectly, is now the greatest mirrorless travel camera available, in our opinion. With a 26.1MP APS-C sensor and in-body image stabilisation, it can take excellent still photos and videos. With a large grip on a small body, it’s a nice camera to hold.
author of the work? Consider Canon’s EOS M50 Mark II. Although the 4K video is substantially reduced, it still has a number of software shooting techniques that make it ideal for travelling influencers, such as the ability to shoot vertical movies and wireless live stream to YouTube.
How we evaluate portable cameras
Today’s cameras need a significant financial commitment, and travel cameras are no exception. For this reason, we have tested each camera in our guide. We place a lot of emphasis on real-world tests, combined with standardised tests for aspects like ISO performance, because they are the most illuminating method to understand a camera’s performance and character for travel cameras in particular.
To gauge how well-suited the camera is for life on the road and to identify any features that would be particularly helpful for travellers, we first examine the camera’s design, handling, and controls. When we utilise it on a shoot, we’ll evaluate its startup time while holding it both handheld and on a tripod to determine where its strengths lie.
We also test the camera’s various autofocus settings, including as Face and Eye AF, in single point, area, and continuous modes, under a variety of lighting circumstances. In order to obtain a feel for metering and the sensor’s capacity to manage noise and resolve fine detail, we also take a variety of images in raw and JPEG in several photographic genres (portrait, landscape, low light, macro/close-up).
Then, after considering everything we’ve learned about the camera, we add its price to gain a feel of the value it provides before making our final judgement.
