Choosing the best Canon lenses for travel photography will significantly improve your photo quality when you’re globe-trotting. You need something that’s portable, inexpensive, and captures any scene in all it’s glory.
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM and Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM are our top choices for travel photographers. They are both nifty-fifty lenses that are lightweight, compact, and versatile. They also have sharp picture quality and a wide aperture range. And they are both affordable lenses you can take anywhere.
If those aren’t the lenses you’re looking for, our guide has all the best travel lenses for Canon mirrorless (RF) and DSLR (EF) cameras. We’ve made it easy to find the best Canon lens for your next international trip.
What Is the Best Canon RF Lens for Travel Photography?
When selecting the best Canon RF lens for travel photography, you need to look at weight, versatility, and optical performance. Each lens offers unique advantages, from lightweight designs to wide focal ranges, ensuring travelers can capture stunning images no matter where they are.
- Exceptional low-light performance with f/1.8 aperture
- Compact and lightweight, ideal for travel
- Produces beautiful bokeh for portrait photography
- Sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration
- Affordable option for high-quality photography
- Versatile zoom range for diverse photography needs
- Effective image stabilization for sharp handheld shots
- Lightweight design enhances travel photography ease
- Quick, precise autofocus perfect for dynamic scenes
- Customizable control ring for intuitive adjustments
- Broad focal range for versatile shooting scenarios
- Compact, lightweight design perfect for travel
- Image stabilization enhances low-light performance
- Quick, silent autofocus ideal for video and stills
- Affordable entry into Canon's RF lens ecosystem
- Ultra-wide angle perfect for landscapes and architecture
- Bright f/2.8 aperture enhances low-light shooting
- Compact, lightweight design ideal for travel photography
- Fast, accurate autofocus system suitable for video
- Affordable entry into ultra-wide RF lens lineup
- Expansive 18-150mm zoom range for versatile shooting
- Built-in image stabilization for sharper handheld images
- Compact design ideal for travel and everyday use
- Smooth, silent autofocus perfect for video recording
- Excellent magnification for close-up photography opportunities
Our Favorite Canon RF Lenses for Travel Photography
Let’s take a closer look at our favorite Canon RF lenses. From wide angles to telephoto zooms, there’s a lens here for every traveler. Explore these options to find the perfect fit for your travel camera backpack.
1. Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
160 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
50 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
 |
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM stands out for its lightweight and compact design. This makes it easy to carry around all day or carry in your backpack. It’s also an affordable lens, so there’s less stress about carrying expensive gear in unknown places.
Its fixed 50mm focal length offers a natural perspective, suitable for a variety of shots, from portraits to street scenes. Special coatings also reduce glare, giving you cleaner images in testing lighting conditions.
However, its prime nature means less flexibility compared to zoom lenses like the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM, which gives you wide-angle to telephoto focal lengths.
The RF 50mm f/1.8 STM delivers excellent image quality, with sharpness improving when stopped down to f/2.8 or f/4.
Its f/1.8 aperture is great in low light, allowing you to shoot at all times of day. There’s no image stabilization, but you don’t need it with a fast aperture on a standard-angle prime. It also gives you excellent depth of field control, helping you achieve a smooth bokeh background in your travel portraits.
The AF stepping motor (STM) is quick and accurate in good lighting, capturing fleeting moments effectively. The lens’s simplicity keeps it affordable and straightforward. The lack of weather sealing is one frustration. But overall, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM is a brilliant option for an enthusiastic traveler with a Canon mirrorless camera.
2. Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
395 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 7.1
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24-105 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
 |
The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM is the best zoom lens for Canon mirrorless cameras. The wide 24-105mm zoom range allows you to shoot anything from wide landscapes to detailed portraits without needing to switch lenses. It’s an all-in-one lens that gives you excellent flexibility.
Optically, the lens offers good sharpness and uses aspherical elements to control chromatic aberration. Glass coatings also help to reduce imperfections like flare and vignetting.
The aperture range is limited. And you only have a max aperture of f/7.1 when fully zoomed in at 105mm. Thankfully, the lens does have image stabilization. This gives you up to five stops of exposure compensation.
Light and easy to carry, the lens fits easily into any travel camera backpack. Its build is sturdy despite being made mostly of plastic, and it handles well on Canon’s mirrorless cameras. The lack of weather sealing is a downside, so you’ll need to take care in bad weather.
The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM is a lightweight, versatile zoom lens. It has some limitations, but it’s an affordable lens that allows you to travel light. It’s a great option for young travelers or older beginners.
3. Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
210 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.3
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24-50 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM is another versatile zoom lens for travel photography. Its focal range from wide-angle to normal view allows you to adapt to new environments. You can shoot broad landscapes or more tightly framed street-style images.
The image quality is excellent, with two aspherical elements that reduce aberrations. Canon’s special Super Spectra Coating (SSC) also keeps flare and ghosting at bay.
It doesn’t have the fastest maximum aperture, especially when you’re zoomed into 50mm. f/6.3 is ok in daylight, so you’ll have no problem in sunny destinations. But there is an image stabilizer to help you in lower light. It gives you an extra 4.5 stops of compensation.
Weighing only 210 g, this lens won’t add much bulk to your travel bag. Its plastic construction keeps it light, though it lacks weather sealing.
While the Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM may not boast the widest aperture or the longest zoom, its stabilization, versatility, and portability make it a practical choice for travelers. It’s also an affordable travel lens you can take anywhere.
4. Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
165 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
16 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM is a wide-angle prime some travel photographers will love. It isn’t as versatile as the previous RF lenses. But it’s the best option if your travel photography involves landscapes and architectural shots.
Picture quality is reliably sharp from corner to corner. And a 13 cm minimum focus distance allows you to capture impressive close-ups.
Its f/2.8 aperture helps you shoot in low-light conditions, allowing for clearer shots at dawn, dusk, or when shooting indoors. A circular aperture also gives you super-smooth boken when using a shallow depth of field.
The light weight and compact design makes this lens is a dream for those on the move. Its construction is sturdy enough for a traveler’s life. But a lack of weather sealing means you’ll need caution when the weather turns bad.
Its autofocus is quick and reliable, making very little noise in operation. The lack of image stabilization might be a drawback for some. But additional features like the custom control ring improve usability, giving photographers more hands-on control.
Ideal for landscape and architectural photography, the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM offers a unique view of the world. The ultra-compact design means it takes up no space in your pack. And the price tag makes it a suitable option for beginners.
5. Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
310 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.3
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
18-150 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens is a versatile zoom lens for travel photographers. Its lightweight design ensures it’s not a burden when traveling. And the wide zoom range gives you incredible flexibility. It’s an all-in-one lens that allows you to travel light.
Zoom lenses with such large focal ranges are not known for their picture quality. But this lens really holds its own. You might experience some distortion at the extremes. But generally, the images are sharp and clear.
The variable aperture might limit its use in low light, pushing photographers towards higher ISOs or slower shutter speeds. But thankfully, the built-in image stabilization gives you an extra 4.5 stops of exposure compensation.
Built from high-quality plastics, the lens is durable yet light, ideal for on-the-go shooting. The lack of weather sealing is a downside, so you’ll need to take care if it rains.
While the Canon RF-S 18-150mm may not have the fastest aperture or professional-grade features, it is versatile and affordable. It’s also reliable, helping you capture stunning images from all over the world. It’s a top option for travel photographers with a Canon APS-C mirrorless camera.
What is the Best Canon EF Lens for Travel Photography?
We now turn to Canon EF lenses for DSLR cameras. These lenses are chosen for their light weight, versatility, and ability to capture stunning images in various settings. From wide landscapes to detailed portraits, each lens offers unique advantages for travel, ensuring photographers can easily adapt to changing environments without compromising image quality.
- Exceptional low-light performance with f/1.8 aperture
- Compact and lightweight, ideal for travel
- Produces beautiful bokeh for portrait photography
- Sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration
- Quick, smooth autofocus perfect for candid shots
- Versatile zoom range for diverse photography needs
- Consistent f/4 aperture across all focal lengths
- Professional-grade build with weather sealing
- Effective image stabilization for sharp results
- Fast, quiet autofocus with manual override option
- Flexible zoom range for versatile shooting scenarios
- Constant f/4 aperture ensures consistent exposure
- L-series build quality with weather sealing
- Hybrid IS for superior stabilization in macro mode
- Fast, silent autofocus with full-time manual override
- Exceptional low-light capability with f/1.4 aperture
- Superior image sharpness and clarity
- Robust L-series construction with weather sealing
- Smooth, aesthetically pleasing bokeh effect
- Fast, accurate autofocus with silent operation
- Broad focal range for versatile shooting options
- Smooth, silent STM autofocus ideal for video
- Built-in image stabilization for sharper images
- Lightweight design enhances portability for travel
- Compatible with Canon's APS-C DSLR cameras
Our Favorite Canon EF Lenses for Travel Photography
Let’s take a closer look at our favorite Canon EF lenses. These Canon lenses provide a range of options to enhance your travel photography. Whether you’re looking for the versatility of a zoom lens or the low-light capabilities of a prime lens, there’s something here for every travel photographer.
1. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
159 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
50 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is a brilliant travel lens for photographers with a Canon DSLR. A nifty-fifty is one of the most popular types of lenses. That’s because the 50mm focal length gives you a natural, versatile field of view. And the fast f/1.8 max aperture gives you excellent exposure control.
Its fixed focal length limits versatility compared to zoom lenses like the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM. But you have gifted sharper optical quality than most zoom lenses. Even on a budget-friendly lens like this, there’s very little chromatic aberration or distortion.
Thanks to the STM motor, the autofocus is quick and accurate in well-lit environments. And the 35 cm minimum focus distance allows you to shoot detailed close-ups. A rounded 7-blade aperture diaphragm also gives you smooth bokeh for those close-up shots.
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is versatile, reliable, and affordable. It’s an absolute dream for any travel photographer.
2. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
670 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24-105 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is a versatile zoom lens Canon users will love for travel photography. The zoom range range allows photographers to capture everything from wide landscapes to detailed portraits without needing to switch lenses.
It’s light for its class, making it less of a burden when you’re traveling with a camera backpack. And it’s both durable and weather-sealed, giving you peace of mind when traveling abroad.
The f/4 maximum aperture isn’t the fastest. But it is constant throughout the zoom range, meaning you don’t lose any stops when zooming in. It also allows you to control the depth of field at any point in the zoom range.
You’re also helped by the lens’s built-in image stabilization. This is a big help when shooting in low light or at slower shutter speeds. The IS can help keep photos sharp even when shooting from hand. That means you can travel lighter by leaving your tripod back at base.
Autofocus is quick and reliable, capturing moments as they happen. The lens’s minimum focusing distance and magnification ratio are adequate for close-up shots, adding to its versatility.
A wide zoom range and pro-level features make the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM a top choice for travel photographers. It’s reasonably priced and still available brand new.
3. Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
600 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24-70 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM is a versatile lens for travel photography, offering a focal range that covers wide-angle to short telephoto shots. This makes it easy to capture vast landscapes and detailed portraits without swapping lenses.
With two aspherical and two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) elements, the optical quality is fantastic. There’s very little distortion at any point in the focal range. And Canon’s special lens coating prevents glare and improves light transmission.
Its constant f/4 aperture provides consistent exposure, which is handy in changing light conditions. It’s not as wide as some lenses, meaning it might struggle in very low light. But you get an additional 4.5 stops of exposure control with the image stabilization.
Its autofocus is quick and reliable, ensuring important moments are not missed. The superior USM drive gives you fast focusing that’s also near silent in operation.
It’s relatively light for its class, reducing fatigue during long days of exploration. The lens is also sturdy, with weather sealing that protects against dust and moisture. This durability, combined with its optical performance and flexibility, makes the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM a solid choice for travelers.
4. Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
650 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.4
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM is a brilliant wide-angle prime for travel photography. This lens excels in capturing expansive landscapes and architectural structures with clarity.
It doesn’t give you the flexibility of a zoom lens. But you can’t question the picture quality. The barrel contains several specialist elements, including UD glass, that deliver edge-to-edge sharpness and clarity.
Its low-light ability is a significant advantage, allowing photographers to shoot in a variety of lighting conditions without compromising on quality. A f/1.4 aperture also gives you fabulous depth of field control, allowing for a lovely blurred bokeh background.
It isn’t the lightest prime lens, but it won’t add much bulk to a travel bag. The lack of image stabilization is mitigated by the wide aperture, which gives you better exposure control. Its quick, accurate autofocus ensures that fleeting moments are captured sharply.
Durability is a key feature, with weather sealing protecting against the elements. This makes the Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM a reliable companion for outdoor and adventure photography. While not as versatile or affordable as the 50mm prime, it delivers pro-level results for travelers wanting a wider angle of view.
5. Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
480 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 5.6
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
18-135 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is the best travel lens for Canon APS-C DSLR cameras. This lens allows photographers to capture everything from sweeping landscapes at 18mm to detailed close-ups at 135mm. It’s an all-in-one lens that allows you to travel light thanks to its versatility.
One UD and one PMO aspherical element give you clean picture quality throughout the zoom range. The sharpness doesn’t match some of the prime lenses, especially at the edges. But it doesn’t disappoint for a lens in this price bracket.
Its variable aperture isn’t the fastest, with only an f/5.6 at 135mm. But you are compensated by effective image stabilization, crucial for sharp images in varied lighting conditions.
The STM motor ensures autofocus is both quick and quiet, perfect for capturing spontaneous moments.
It’s lightweight and easy to carry around for long periods. Though it lacks weather sealing, its solid build and good optical performance make it a reliable choice for outdoor adventures.
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is a good option for travel enthusiasts looking for flexibility. Its combination of a broad zoom range, image stabilization, and portability offers a practical tool for capturing diverse travel experiences. While professionals might seek lenses with faster apertures or specialized features, this is a great starting point for beginners with an itch to travel.
Conclusion: The Best Canon Lenses for Travel Photography
Our article on the best Canon Lenses for Travel Photography has showcased a variety of lenses that suit any traveler. From lightweight primes to versatile zooms, each lens offers unique benefits for capturing stunning travel images. The key takeaways emphasize the importance of considering factors like weight, focal length, and aperture when choosing a lens for travel.
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM and Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM both stand out for their compact design and excellent low-light performance. These lenses are ideal for travel photography, offering a great balance of portability and image quality. They are must-have lenses for travel photographers with Canon cameras.