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While some travelers are content with a camera that takes great photos while requiring the least amount of photography knowledge, others want a camera that can go far beyond the typical travel snapshot. Some travel enthusiasts just want a tiny camera that can fit into the pair of shoes packed in their luggage, while others would rather leave that pair of shoes at home in favor of bringing a bigger camera.
Whether your idea of travel is a luxury vacation to Paris or an expedition into the rainforest, you will want some kind of digital camera to capture your travel memories with as you explore your destination. From small digital compact cameras that can fit into a pocket to slightly larger mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras to larger still DSLR cameras, we’ve got something on this page for everyone and every kind of travel. Be sure to take a look at our tips for travel photography and traveling safely with camera gear too before you venture off!
For travelers who don’t have much room for a big camera but still want to take great photos, one of the best space and weight saving options is an advanced compact camera. While a compact camera doesn’t offer the versatility of interchangeable lenses, creative control is still simple with these very full featured cameras that can take photos rivaling the quality produced by many larger cameras.
If you’re traveling to a place where theft is common, carrying around a big camera bag filled with lenses and gear can be like painting a big target on your back. Compact cameras are small enough to fit in pockets and purses and in tiny backpack pouches — they don’t make you immune to thieves, but they’re easier to keep track of and don’t attract as much attention as a DSLR does.
Mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras, usually just referred to as mirrorless cameras or, for people who really love acronyms as MILCs, are a relatively new breed of camera that form a sort of missing link between the small, fixed lens compact cameras and the larger DSLR cameras. For photographers who want the creative control that comes with being able to select the perfect lens for every situation without having to carry around the bulkier camera body of a DSLR, mirrorless cameras are a great option to consider for traveling.
Digital Single Lens Reflex Cameras, commonly known as DSLRs, are bulkier than compact and mirrorless cameras, but historically they have provided some of the most impressive features for still photography and for recording HD videos. While mirrorless camera systems are quickly catching up on features, most DSLR systems still have a wider variety of compatible lenses, making them a favorite choice of many pros.
Despite their larger size, DSLR cameras are still a great option for lots of travel photographers. Some are even built to handle incredibly tough environments, making them ideal for the travelers who live on the wilder side.