With the rise of social media and the growing popularity of travel content, now is the perfect time to share your adventures and make money as a travel blogger.
Since travel content is heavily visual, it’s crucial to equip yourself with the right camera gear to capture and showcase the beauty of the places you visit.
In this guide, we will explore the best camera gear options for aspiring (and seasoned) travel bloggers and recommendations for every budget.
Remember, the camera gear you choose will play a vital role in bringing your stories to life and connecting with your audience on a deeper level.
But even more important, taking your own photos (instead of using stock images) will signal to search engines that you have personally visited these places and therefore have the authority to create and share content about said places.
Not everyone has the same needs or financial resources, so I’ve put together a range of options, from smartphones and action cameras to advanced mirrorless cameras and traditional DSLRs.
Each category offers distinct advantages, allowing you to find the perfect match for your travel blogging goals.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!
What Kind of Camera do Travel Bloggers Use?
These are the 4 most popular cameras travel bloggers are using in 2023:
Google Pixel 6
The Google Pixel 6, with its powerful camera system and computational photography capabilities, is an exceptional smartphone choice for travel bloggers seeking stunning image quality and low-light performance on the go.
The Google Pixel 6 is the camera I use for all of the photos on my travel blog (which receives over 400,000 pageviews per month).
Sony Alpha a7R IV Mirrorless Digital Camera
The Sony Alpha a7R IV sets the benchmark for mirrorless cameras with its impressive 61-megapixel sensor, advanced autofocus system, and exceptional image quality.
It’s a top choice for travel bloggers aiming to capture breathtaking landscapes and detailed shots.
Nikon D7500 DSLR
The Nikon D7500 offers a perfect blend of versatility and reliability with its high-resolution sensor, fast continuous shooting, and robust build.
Travel bloggers who want to prioritize image quality and prefer the traditional handling of a DSLR will like this camera.
GoPro HERO10
The GoPro HERO10 is the ultimate action camera for adventurous travel bloggers.
It features 5K video, HyperSmooth 4.0 improved image stabilization, and rugged waterproof design, allowing you to capture thrilling moments and epic experiences in stunning detail.
Best Smartphone Cameras for Travel Blogging
Smartphone cameras offer a convenient and affordable choice for travel bloggers.
They’re a budget-friendly option without compromising on image quality.
Let’s explore two top-notch smartphone models for travel photography:
iPhone 13 Pro Max
The iPhone 13 Pro Max is hailed as one of the best smartphones for photography, particularly for travel bloggers.
It features a triple-camera system with a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, a 12-megapixel wide lens, and a 12-megapixel telephoto lens.
This combination allows you to capture stunning landscapes, intricate details, and zoomed-in shots with ease.
The Night mode feature enhances low-light photography, making it ideal for capturing mesmerizing nightscapes or dimly lit scenes during your travels.
Additionally, the Dolby Vision HDR video recording capabilities ensure cinematic footage for your travel vlogs.
Google Pixel 6
The Google Pixel 6 is another exceptional smartphone with a powerful camera system that caters to the needs of travel bloggers, at half the price tag of an iPhone.
This is the camera I use for most of my photos on my own travel blog.
Equipped with a primary 50-megapixel sensor and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, it delivers remarkable image quality.
The Night Sight mode enables you to capture clear and vibrant photos even in challenging low-light conditions.
The Pixel 6 also excels in computational photography, allowing you to capture breathtaking HDR+ images that showcase the vibrant colors and intricate details of your travel destinations.
May favorite part about this camera is the built-in editing software that lets you edit out other people in your photos with one touch.
Essential Smartphone Accessories for Travel Photography
To enhance your smartphone photography capabilities, consider investing in the following accessories:
Tripod and Smartphone Mount
A sturdy and lightweight tripod is essential for capturing stable shots and long-exposure images.
Pair it with a smartphone mount to securely attach your phone to the tripod, giving you the flexibility to capture steady videos, group shots, or self-portraits.
External Lenses
Expand your creative possibilities with external lenses designed specifically for smartphones.
Wide-angle lenses help capture expansive landscapes, while macro lenses allow you to photograph intricate details up close.
These lenses easily attach to your smartphone and enhance the versatility of your camera.
Portable Charger
Traveling often means being on the move for extended periods.
To ensure your smartphone doesn’t run out of battery power when you need it most, invest in a portable charger.
Look for a lightweight and compact option with sufficient capacity to keep your phone charged throughout your adventures.
Best Mirrorless Cameras for Travel Bloggers
Sony Alpha a7R IV (High-end)
For travel bloggers who prioritize exceptional image quality and professional features, the Sony Alpha a7R IV is a top choice.
With its high-resolution sensor, advanced autofocus system, and robust build, it delivers stunning results in various shooting conditions.
Fujifilm X-T4 (Mid-range)
The Fujifilm X-T4 strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it an excellent option for travel bloggers.
With its superb image quality, in-body image stabilization, and a wide range of compatible lenses, you’ve got unlimited creative flexibility on your journeys.
Nikon Z50 (Budget-friendly)
The Nikon Z50 is a budget-friendly mirrorless camera that doesn’t compromise on image quality or performance.
It features a compact and lightweight design, intuitive controls, and compatibility with Nikon’s excellent line-up of lenses, making it an ideal choice for entry-level travel bloggers.
One of the best features is the selfie screen, making this a favorite choice for travel vloggers.
Recommended Lenses for Mirrorless Cameras
Wide-angle Lens for Landscapes
A wide-angle lens, such as the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM or the Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f/4 R OIS, is perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes, cityscapes, and architecture.
It allows you to encompass more of the scene and create visually stunning images.
Telephoto Lens for Wildlife or Details
A telephoto lens, like the Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS or the Fujifilm XF 55-200mm f/3.5-4.8 R LM OIS, is essential for capturing wildlife, distant subjects, or detailed shots.
It brings faraway subjects closer and adds depth to your travel photography.
Prime Lens for Low-light or Portrait Photography
A prime lens, such as the Sony FE 35mm f/1.4 GM or the Fujifilm XF 50mm f/1.2 R WR, excels in low-light conditions and is perfect for capturing portraits or street photography.
It offers a wide aperture, allowing for beautiful bokeh and excellent performance in dimly lit areas.
Why Should You Use a Mirrorless Camera for Travel Blogging?
A mirrorless digital camera is a great choice for travel bloggers because it’s lightweight, takes high-quality photos, and has interchangeable lenses.
This allows you to capture a wide range of beautiful shots during your travels without lugging around heavy equipment.
Best DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) Cameras for Travel Bloggers
While mirrorless cameras have gained popularity, DSLR cameras continue to be a trusted choice for travel bloggers.
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV (High-end)
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a flagship DSLR camera that offers exceptional image quality, advanced autofocus, and robust performance.
With its full-frame sensor, fast continuous shooting, and professional-grade features, it is the go-to choice for travel bloggers seeking top-notch image quality and versatility.
Nikon D7500 (Mid-range)
The Nikon D7500 strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it an ideal option for travel bloggers.
It features a high-resolution sensor, excellent low-light performance, and a reliable autofocus system.
Its compact design and durability make it suitable for travel adventures, providing excellent image quality without the bulk.
Pentax K-70 (Budget-friendly)
The Pentax K-70 is a budget-friendly DSLR camera that doesn’t compromise on image quality or functionality.
It offers weather sealing, a high-resolution sensor, in-body image stabilization, and compatibility with a wide range of lenses.
Its affordability and robust features make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travel bloggers.
What I like about this camera is that it’s fully weather-resistant and designed to resist water, fog, snow, sand and dust.
It’s the best performing camera in extreme weather conditions.
Essential DSLR Accessories for Travel Photographers
Tripod with a Ball Head
A sturdy tripod with a ball head is a must-have accessory for travel photographers using DSLR cameras.
It provides stability for long-exposure shots, allows for precise composition, and enables you to capture sharp images in low-light situations.
Look for a lightweight and compact tripod that can be easily carried during your travels.
External Flash
An external flash provides additional lighting options, particularly in low-light conditions or when you need to fill in shadows.
It offers versatility and allows you to achieve better exposure and enhance the quality of your images.
Consider a compact and portable external flash that can be easily mounted on your DSLR camera.
Remote Shutter Release
A remote shutter release is useful for situations where you want to minimize camera shake or capture self-portraits without relying on a timer.
It allows you to trigger the shutter remotely, ensuring sharp and shake-free images.
Opt for a wireless remote shutter release that offers convenience and ease of use.
Why Should You Use a Mirrorless Camera for Travel Blogging?
DSLR cameras are great choices for travel blogging because they offer exceptional image quality, work well in different situations, and lets you use different lenses to capture different kinds of shots.
With a DSLR, you can take professional-looking photos that show off your travel adventures in the best way possible.
Best GoPros and Action Cameras for Travel Blogging
GoPro HERO10 Black (Mid-range)
The GoPro HERO10 Black is the flagship model, offering stunning 5K video and 20-megapixel photos.
It features a front-facing color display, improved HyperSmooth video stabilization, and a removable lens for added versatility.
With its advanced features and exceptional image quality, it’s the ultimate choice for travel bloggers seeking top-of-the-line performance.
GoPros were the original travel vlogging cameras, so you can’t go wrong with this camera veteran.
DJI Osmo Action (Mid-range)
The DJI Osmo Action is a powerful contender with its 4K video, HDR support, and dual screens (front and back).
It features RockSteady stabilization, ensuring smooth footage even in the most dynamic situations.
The Osmo Action offers excellent image quality and intuitive controls, making it a reliable choice for capturing your travel adventures.
What sets the DJI Osmo Action apart from the GoPro cameras, is that the battery life lasts longer and doesn’t overheat or turn off when cold (a common problem among GoPros).
Insta360 ONE X2 (360-Degree Camera)
The Insta360 ONE X2 is a feature-packed 360-degree camera that captures stunning 5.7K video and 18-megapixel photos.
It’s got impressive stabilization, an intuitive touchscreen, and a range of creative shooting modes.
Using an Insta360 is the only camera of its type if you want to offer the immersion experience for your audience.
These cameras are great for adventure-style travel bloggers because they provide a unique and interactive way to showcase travel experiences and allows viewers to explore the content from different angles.
Succeeding in the travel blogging world is becoming harder, so using a unique camera style can help you stand out.
AKASO EK7000 (Budget-friendly)
The AKASO EK7000 is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance.
You’ll love the 4K video recording, built-in Wi-Fi, and a waterproof case for underwater adventures.
With its affordable price point, it’s a great entry-level action camera for travel bloggers on a budget.
This is the best camera for beginner adventure travel bloggers, especially if your content will feature the outdoors, like camping, hiking, underwater sports or even motorcycle vlogging.
Best Influencer Camera Kits
In addition to individual camera options, you might prefer to invest in comprehensive camera kits that come bundled with essential accessories.
These kits provide everything needed to kickstart your photography and video journey and ensure you have all the necessary gear to capture stunning travel content.
Here’s a closer look at my top choices and what most influencers use for camera kits.
Sony ZV-1 & Content Creator Kit
The Sony ZV-1 is the camera I use for my travel vlog YouTube channel.
This camera was specifically designed for content creators and is the perfect entry level choice.
It’s affordable, easy to use and has helped me grow my YouTube channel to over 30,000 subscribers in a little over one year.
This kit includes the camera and the wireless handheld grip, which can be used as a tripod, or for walking style selfie vlogs.
Canon EOS M50 Mark II Influencer Kit
This kit includes the Canon EOS M50 Mark II mirrorless camera, which is known for its excellent image quality and versatile features.
It comes bundled with a 15-45mm lens, Rode VideoMic GO microphone for high-quality audio, a Joby GorillaPod tripod for stability, and an SD card for storage.
It’s an ideal option for travel bloggers who prefer a compact and lightweight setup.
Nikon D780 Influencer Kit
For those who prefer DSLR cameras, the Nikon D780 influencer kit offers a powerful setup.
It includes the Nikon D780 camera body, a versatile 24-120mm lens, a reliable Manfrotto tripod, an external flash for better lighting, and a camera bag for easy transportation.
This kit is suitable for travel bloggers looking for the traditional DSLR shooting experience.
Mirrorless vs. DSLR Cameras for Travel Blogging
When comparing mirrorless cameras to DSLR cameras for a travel blog, it ultimately depends on personal preference and specific needs.
Mirrorless cameras are more compact and lightweight, making them easier to carry during travel, while still offering excellent image quality and advanced features.
They are well-suited for bloggers who prioritize portability and versatility.
On the other hand, DSLR cameras provide a traditional shooting experience, professional-looking images, and a wider range of lenses to choose from.
They are ideal for bloggers seeking robust build quality, precise optical viewfinders, and extensive control over their photography.
Ultimately, the best camera for your travel blog depends on your individual shooting style, desired features, and willingness (or not) to carry slightly bulkier equipment.
What Lens do Travel Bloggers Use?
The most popular choice of lens among travel bloggers tends to be a versatile wide-angle zoom lens, usually the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens (or its equivalent for other camera brands).
This lens offers a wide-angle focal range of 16-35mm, allowing you to capture expansive landscapes, architecture, and cityscapes with excellent sharpness and image quality.
The lens’s large maximum aperture of f/2.8 enables low-light performance and creative depth-of-field control, while its advanced optical design minimizes distortion and aberrations.
This versatile lens suits a wide range of travel photography needs, providing the flexibility to capture sweeping landscapes, architecture, and even group shots, making it ideal for documenting travel experiences.
Its focal length range strikes a good balance between capturing a wide field of view and minimizing distortion, allowing travel bloggers to capture the essence of their destinations while maintaining image quality.
While the quality of your camera gear is important, it’s equally essential to focus on the content you create and the stories you tell.
The camera is merely a tool to capture your unique perspective and experiences.
Happy travel blogging!