If you’re planning the perfect trip, you obviously want to bring the ideal camera to capture all of your favorite moments. But choosing the best camera can be tricky, because every traveler and trip is different. Are you looking for convenience and beginner-friendly controls? Do you need something durable in rough weather or climate conditions? Or maybe you want a camera versatile enough for every trip from the city to the mountains. Whatever your next adventure may bring, we have the top 5 travel cameras of 2020 here for you to take your pick.
Best Point and Shoot Camera
The Panasonic LUMIX Digital Camera DC-FZ80K is a fantastic low-price option for the traveler who wants to capture high-quality photos with as little hassle as possible.
The LUMIX features 4K photo and video capabilities, a full range 60X zoom, advanced stabilization techniques, and an impressive low-light mode—all without dealing with extra lenses and attachments. It’s also fully equipped for the road with USB charging and the capability to send photos directly to your phone over Wi-Fi.
And with an impressive weight of only 1.36 pounds, you’ll barely notice it’s there as you explore.
Best Compact Camera
Those who travel light will love the portability of the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II.
Small enough to fit in your pocket, this camera still offers an excellent range of features, including an impressive 20.1-megapixel optical sensor and the ability to shoot in auto or manual mode. You’ll enjoy the DIGIC 7 Processor’s ability to capture sharp photos even in low-light and advanced auto-tracking capabilities that keep your subject in focus, even on the move. Plus, the PowerShot G9 X Mark II comes with eight built-in style presets so you can fine-tune your photos without complicated software right from the 3-inch LCD display.
Best Rugged Camera
If your trips often involve hiking, mountain climbing, and other immersive outdoor experiences, the Pentax KP 24.32 has the portability and durability to capture even your wildest adventures.
Perfect for serious travel photographers, this ultra-compact DSLR camera features a dust and weather-proof exterior, 5-axis shake reduction, and the capability to function in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit! Add in a CMOS sensor that processes up to ISO 819,200 and a shutter capable of 1/24,000-second speeds, and you have a camera that’s built to handle anything the world throws at you.
Best Mirrorless Camera
The Sony Alpha a6000 brings together a plethora of high-quality features that make this camera one of the most versatile mirrorless cameras available.
Weighing in at less than a pound, measuring under 5 inches long, and offering lens options up to 210 mm, the Sony Alpha a6000 combines portability with surprisingly powerful photo capabilities. You’ll never have a problem shooting on the go with the ability to take up to 11 photos per second in 24.3MP quality and the help of the worlds’ fastest auto focus6 technology. Travelers will also love the low-light shooting capabilities with an ISO range of 100-25000, the 3-inch tilting LCD screen, and full DSLR control functions - not to mention the ability to control your camera through your smartphone! Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, the Sony Alpha a6000 will capture all your favorite travel memories as fast as they happen.
Best All-Around Camera
When you don’t know what your adventure will hold, the Panasonic LUMIX G85 brings an option for everything.
Enjoy a lightweight and compact mirrorless design without sacrificing dust and splash-proofing for intense trip environments, and shoot without pausing with a 5-axis stabilization system. Or, you can record everything in 4K and select video frames to convert to photos later! When you want to capture the perfect shot, the 3-inch vari-angle touch screen lets you find the best angle, and the electronic eye-level viewfinder makes framing your picture a breeze. Plus, the Panasonic LUMIX G85 also has a wide range of customization options from interchangeable lenses to a grip that includes a secondary battery. With such versatility, this is a camera you’ll want to take on every trip.
No two trips are alike, but with such a wide range of camera options, you can certainly pick one that will fit your travel style. If you need some help deciding, analyze your personal travel habits and see where your greatest photo needs are, or consider what features you want that your current camera lacks. With just a little time and self-reflection, you’ll be able to hone in on exactly what you need and which camera fits your unique travel style.