Best Action Camera for Travel

When it comes to capturing your adventures, having the best travel camera is essential. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a long-haul getaway, a good camera will help you shoot stunning images and videos to document your experiences. From compact cameras to mirrorless models, there are plenty of options to choose from. To help you make the right decision, we have tested and ranked the best travel cameras available.

The Best Travel Camera Overall: OM System OM-5

Our top pick for the best travel camera is the OM System OM-5. It offers smartphone-beating image quality, interchangeable lenses for flexibility, and a compact and weatherproof design. This camera delivers excellent video and stills quality, thanks to its in-body image stabilization and computational photography modes. It also has useful features like Live ND and in-camera focus stacking. Although it has a smaller sensor and average EVF resolution, these trade-offs are acceptable considering its size and price.

The Best-Value Travel Camera: Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200

For those looking for a budget-friendly option, the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 is the best-value travel camera. It features a large 1-inch sensor and a versatile 15x optical zoom. Despite its compact size, this camera produces better image quality than most smartphones. Its colors are vibrant, and the dynamic range allows for easy recovery of shadow detail. It also has a built-in electronic viewfinder for easier composition in bright light. Although it is slightly more expensive than other compact cameras, the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 offers great value for its features.

The Best-Looking Travel Camera: Nikon Z fc

If style is important to you, the Nikon Z fc is the best travel camera in terms of looks. It pays homage to the 30-year-old Nikon FM2 with its retro design, but it is a modern camera inside. It features a 20.9MP APS-C sensor that delivers excellent image quality and impressive noise handling. The Z fc also has a vari-angle touchscreen for easy framing and a range of creative shooting modes. Although it lacks weatherproofing, it is a beautifully unique camera for casual use.

The Best Action Camera for Travel: GoPro Hero 11 Black

For capturing your action-packed adventures, the GoPro Hero 11 Black is the best choice. It features a new 1/1.9-inch sensor with an 8:9 aspect ratio, allowing you to reframe footage for different social channels without sacrificing quality. This camera offers impressive video capabilities, including 5.3K/60p resolution, raw bursts at 30fps, and 24.7MP stills from 5.3K video. It also has improved stabilization and a larger battery for longer recording. The GoPro Hero 11 Black is a rugged and pocket-friendly choice for adventurous travelers.

The Best Tough Travel Camera: Olympus TG-6

If you need a camera that can handle the most extreme conditions, the Olympus TG-6 is the best tough travel camera. It is freeze-proof, shockproof, and waterproof, making it ideal for all-action travelers. The TG-6 features a 1/2.3-inch sensor that delivers reasonable image quality, with vibrant colors and good detail. It also has a versatile zoom range, 4K video capability, and raw shooting for added flexibility. Although it is not a major upgrade from its predecessor, the TG-6 remains a stellar option for rugged travel photography.

The Best Premium Compact: Fujifilm X100V

For those who prefer a fixed lens camera, the Fujifilm X100V is the best premium compact travel camera. It features a fixed 23mm f/2 lens and a design inspired by 1950s analogue cameras. The X100V offers excellent image quality and impressive noise handling, thanks to its 26.1MP sensor and X-Processor 4. It also has 4K video recording and a higher resolution hybrid EVF for versatile shooting. Although it is more expensive than other compact cameras, the X100V is a capable and stylish option for travel photography.

The Best Small Full-Frame Camera: Sony A7C

If you prefer a full-frame camera in a compact form, the Sony A7C is the best option for travel photography. It features a 24.2MP sensor and offers excellent image quality and noise handling. The A7C has a rangefinder-style design and a portable size, making it convenient for travel. It also has a vari-angle touchscreen for easy framing and a range of shooting modes. Although its viewfinder is small and its video capabilities are not as strong as other models, the A7C is a capable and convenient choice for full-frame travel photography.

The Best Hybrid for Travel Vlogging: Fujifilm X-S20

For content creators on the move, the Fujifilm X-S20 is the best hybrid camera for travel vlogging. It offers accessible handling for learners, impressive video features, and a compact and well-balanced body. The X-S20 has a 26.1MP sensor and the same shooting system as the X-S10 and X-T4, delivering quality stills and 6K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit internal video recording. It also has in-body image stabilization and a vari-angle touchscreen for easy operation. Although it lacks weather-sealing and is relatively expensive, the X-S20 is a solid option for travel vlogging.

Best for Moving Subjects: Sony A6700

If you frequently shoot moving subjects, the Sony A6700 is the best hybrid camera for travel photography. It features a 26MP APS-C sensor and offers impressive AI-powered autofocus. The A6700 has great handling and physical controls, as well as solid battery life. It excels in subject tracking, making it easy to capture fast-moving action. Although its menu system is complex for beginners and noise can be an issue at high ISOs, the A6700 is a reliable and capable camera for travel photography.

The Best Superzoom Camera: Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

For those who want a versatile all-in-one camera, the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is the best superzoom travel camera. It features a 24-600mm zoom range and a 1-inch sensor, offering the convenience of a bag full of lenses without the need to change them. The RX10 IV delivers excellent image quality, with well-controlled noise and vibrant colors. It also has 4K video recording and a range of shooting modes. Although it is more expensive than other compact cameras, the RX10 IV offers great value for its features.

When choosing the best travel camera for you, consider factors like size, ruggedness, and lens versatility. Mirrorless cameras are generally more portable and offer excellent image quality, while DSLRs may be preferred for their ergonomic grip and battery life. Compact cameras are great for convenience, while bridge cameras offer a larger zoom range. Consider your shooting style and preferences to find the perfect travel camera for your adventures.