Best Travel Cameras of 2017: Expert-Tested Picks from 8 Years of Global Adventures
Advancements in camera technology mean you no longer have to compromise between stunning travel photos and heavy gear. Over 8 years of worldwide travel, we've rigorously tested cameras in diverse conditions, from humid jungles to unpredictable weather.
We've curated the top travel cameras of 2017, spanning compact point-and-shoots, lightweight mirrorless systems, and capable DSLRs. Whether you need extensive zoom, ultra-portable setups, or exceptional low-light performance, these stand out for travelers.
Best Compact Point-and-Shoot Travel Cameras
Nikon Coolpix A900
Type: Point-and-Shoot
Specs: 20MP NIKKOR f/3.4-6.9 ED Lens, 24-840mm Zoom, 35x Optical Zoom, 3" Tilting LCD, 4K Video at 30fps, ISO 3200, 7fps Continuous Shooting, Built-In WiFi, Full Manual Exposure Control, Remote Control via Smartphone or Tablet
Price: $366.25
The Nikon Coolpix A900 delivers versatile zoom in a sleek, compact body. Smartphone remote control is ideal for solo travelers—view and shoot directly from your device. At under $370, it's a budget-friendly standout.
Canon PowerShot G9 X
Type: Point-and-Shoot
Specs: 20.2 MP 1" High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor, 28-80mm Focal Length, 3x Optical Zoom, 3" Touchscreen LCD Monitor, ISO 12800, 6 fps Continuous Shooting, Built-In WiFi, Full HD Video, Built-In Pop-Up Flash, Full Manual Mode
Price: $399
Canon's PowerShot G9 X shines for backpacking and hiking with its tiny size. Shoot in full manual and RAW for vibrant images—perfect for enthusiasts on a budget under $400.
Sony RX100
Type: Point-and-Shoot
Specs: 20.2 MP Exmor CMOS Sensor, 28-100mm Focal Length, ISO 6400, Approx. 10 fps Continuous Shooting, Full HD Video, 3" LCD Screen, Built-In Pop-Up Flash
Price: $448
The Sony RX100 excels in low light with fast focus and RAW support. Auto scene detection aids beginners, making it our top point-and-shoot for dim conditions.
Best Mirrorless Travel Cameras
Sony Alpha a7II
Type: Mirrorless
Specs: 24.3 MP Full-Frame Exmor CMOS Sensor, 5-Axis SteadyShot Image Stabilization, Fast Auto Focus and 5fps Burst, Full HD Video, Weather-Resistant Body, Built-In WiFi, 3" Tilting LCD
Price: $1498 Body Only or $1798 with Kit Lens
This is our go-to camera for every trip. Switching from heavy DSLRs slashed our load by 5-10 pounds, allowing 3 lenses comfortably (16-35mm wide, 24-70mm zoom, 70-200mm for wildlife). Exceptional dynamic range minimizes post-processing. Full review here.
Fuji X-T2
Type: Mirrorless
Specs: 24.3 MP APS-C Sensor, 3" Tilting LCD Screen, 8 fps Continuous Shooting, Weather-Sealed Body, ISO 51200, 4K Video, Built-In WiFi
Price: $1599 Body Only or $2199 with 18-55mm F2.8-F4.0 Lens
A favorite for its lightweight build and image quality. Fuji X-T2 vs. Sony a7II? Opt for full-frame like Sony for superior sensors, though Fuji offers strong video and lenses.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II
Type: Mirrorless
Specs: 16.1 MP 4/3 Live MOS Sensor, 3" Tilting LCD Touch Screen, Up to 8.5 fps Continuous Shooting, Silent Mode & 4K Timelapse, In-Body Image Stabilization, ISO 25600, Full HD Video, Built-In WiFi
Price: $499 Body Only or $549 with 14-42mm Kit Lens
Classic design packs pro features at entry-level prices. Ideal for beginners/intermediates seeking compact, high-quality mirrorless.
Sony Alpha a6300
Type: Mirrorless
Specs: 24.2 MP APS-C Exmor CMOS Sensor, Up to 11 fps Continuous Shooting w/Auto Focus and Exposure, 3" Tilting LCD Monitor, Weather-Sealed Body, 4D FOCUS with 425 Phase-Detect Points, 4K Video, ISO 51200
Price: $998 Body Only or $1148 with Kit Lens
Great for intermediates wanting 4K and low-light prowess. Faster burst (11fps), silent mode, and $500 less than a7II, in a smaller package.
Best DSLR Travel Cameras
Nikon D3300
Type: DSLR
Specs: 24.2MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor, 3" LCD Screen, EXPEED 4 Image Processor, 5 fps Continuous Shooting at Full Resolution, Full HD Video, Native ISO 12800 (Extended to 25600)
Price: $359 Body Only or $446.95 with 18-55mm Kit Lens
Compact DSLR with sharp focus, high-res sensor, and low-light sensitivity. Solid for Nikon lens owners on a budget.
Canon Rebel SL1
Type: DSLR
Specs: 18 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, 4 fps Continuous Shooting, 9-Point AF System, ISO 12800 (expandable to 25600), 3" Touchscreen LCD, Full HD Video, Scene Intelligent Auto Mode
Price: $399 Body Only or $479 with Kit Lens
Compact Rebel series entry (early 2017) for Canon users. High ISO and touchscreen suit beginners to intermediates.
For packing tips, see our Ultimate Packing List for Travel Photographers. To choose your ideal camera, read How to Choose the Best Camera for Travel.
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