GoPro HERO12 – the safest travel camera

Introducing the undisputed king of action sports videography the GoPro HERO 12. With its robust build, entirely waterproof design, and exceptional stabilisation, it is easily the clear choice if your trip includes extreme sports or underwater activities. But even if you aren’t jumping off cliffs, sliding down mountains or submerged in the ocean its durability and size makes it a strong choice for most backpackers.

Its size also means you can be far more discreet with your videography. While some of the choices on this list stand out like a sore thumb to opportunist pickpockets.

There are a few drawbacks. The GoPro is better suited for video than photography. Although it does have a zoom feature, it struggles at a distance making landscape shots look slightly less impressive than to be expected.

If you want 5.3k videography without having to worry about damage or precious backpack packing space then the GoPro Hero 12 is for you. 

The Fujifilm X100V  – the most popular choice

This is a no-nonsense, fit-for-purpose travel camera. The retro design and fixed lens aren’t for everyone but its sleek and compact size makes it incredibly portable, fitting effortlessly into any travel bag. With its 26.1 MP APS-C sensor and fixed 23mm f/2 lens, the X100V delivers stunningly sharp and vibrant images, perfect for documenting your journey. Its advanced autofocus and exceptional low-light performance ensure you never miss a moment, day or night. 

But…. it’s got a heavy price tag. Even second hand you are looking at £500+ so it’s too expensive for for backpacker budgets. If you can finance this little beauty it will not let you down. 

OM System OM-5 – the all-rounder

The all-rounder. A midrange camera, that is all-weather, all-purpose features and compact but capable camera body. 

This is a serious camera by anyone’s standards but it comes at a serious cost. New the body alone costs £939. However, inside that body is a 20.4 MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, which captures high-quality images and 4K videos, and in-body image stabilisation which allows for sharp, handheld shots even in the most challenging conditions

Plus it has one of the best weatherproof constructions of any camera on the market. So you’ll be covered anywhere, from sandy beaches to misty mountain tops. 

Overall it’s a great blend of durability, portability, and creative potential. 

Sony A7 III – the most dependable travel camera

Its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to slip into any backpack without weighing you down. Featuring a 24.2 MP full-frame sensor, it captures stunning, high-quality images and 4K videos, ensuring your travel memories are preserved in breathtaking detail. 

The A7 III’s impressive battery life means you can explore all day without worrying about running out of juice, while its fast autofocus and excellent low-light performance let you snap perfect shots anytime, anywhere. 

Sony Alpha ZV-E10 – best travel vlogging camera

This easily has a shot at the best vlogging camera for backpackers. The compact and lightweight design means it will easily tuck away in your backpack. It even has live-streaming capabilities for those of you who want to share your travels directly with your audience. 

BUT there is one issue and it’s a big one. It’s not water resistant, so if your backpacker trip is action-packed with boat trips, action sports, snow, monsoons, etc perhaps go to our next camera on this list. 

DJI Osmo Pocket 3 – the smallest travel camera

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the ultimate compact camera for backpacking and even makes the Go-Pro feel big.  It’s tiny yet durable but with its built-in gimbal, it offers smooth, stabilised footage in a pocket-sized device. The camera’s AI editor and 4K capabilities make it easy to create professional-quality videos on the fly, perfect for documenting your backpacking journey.

These top travel cameras for backpacking in 2024 have been selected for their exceptional ability to capture the essence of your travels, combining portability, durability, and advanced features. Whether you’re a professional photographer, a vlogger, or an enthusiast looking to document your backpacking adventures, these cameras will help you tell your story with stunning clarity and creativity.