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.
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
- Affordable
- 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
- 90 fps max burst rate
- Excellent 4K video performance
- Perfect for vloggers
10 Best Travel Cameras
And now, starting with our top pick, here are those cameras in more detail.
1. Canon EOS RP
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon RF
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
26 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
 |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
4,779 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
40,000 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
5 fps |
| Video |
Video
 |
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
 3" |
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
| Brand |
Brand
Fujifilm
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Fixed
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
26 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
160 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
12,800 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
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
| Brand |
Brand
Olympus
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 Micro Four Thirds |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Micro 4/3
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
121 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
200 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
6,400 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
15 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
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
| Brand |
Brand
Fujifilm
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Fujifilm X
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
26 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
160 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
12,800 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
20 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
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
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon EF/EF-S
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
33 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
45 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
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
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Nikon Z
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
21 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
209 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
 3.2" |
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
| Brand |
Brand
Sony
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
693 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
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
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon EF/EF-S
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
9 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
5 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
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
| Brand |
Brand
Panasonic
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Micro Four Thirds |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Micro 4/3
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
16 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
49 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
200 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
8 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
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
| Brand |
Brand
Sony
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 1" |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Fixed
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
357 |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
12,800 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
5 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
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!