Choosing A Travel Camera + How To Keep It Safe

Your bags are packed, your itinerary is set and you have a pocket full of the local currency. But, you are missing one thing: a high quality camera to document every moment on your upcoming trip. Perhaps you are hesitant to invest in an expensive one because you are worried that it could get broken or stollen. Maybe you are trying to figure out if you should buy a point-and-shoot or a DSLR. This post will help you decide what type of camera you should buy and provide you with tips on making sure your camera is safe during all of your travels.

DSLR or Point-and-shoot camera?

I have gotten asked this question multiple times and I think it is because many people think in order to have high quality images, they must have a DSLR camera. However, this is simply not true!

DSLR cameras are great options for people with camera experience. If you don’t know what the words aperture, ISO and shutter speed mean, a DSLR probably isn’t the right choice for you. I know many people who buy DSLR cameras and then just use “auto” mode all the time. I get it, I do. DSLRs are hard to manage if you are not knowledgable in camera talk. However, if you are just going to use a DSLR in auto mode and don’t have a strong interest in learning how the camera works, a good point and shoot will provide you with images that you will be happy with at a lower cost.

The bottom line is get a point and shoot if you don’t know how to work a camera and don’t want to bother or you are looking to save some money.

If you do decide on a DSLR and don’t have experience using one, become comfortable with it before you leave for your trip. You don’t want to miss on photographic moments just because your settings are off.

Lastly, if you are looking for something smaller and lightweight, I would recommend a point and shoot.

Can’t I Just Use My IPhone?

Of course! Many phones have awesome quality cameras. If you cannot afford to buy a separate camera or simply don’t want to deal with carrying another thing around with you while you travel, your phone can be a great option.

(Important note: This post contains affiliate links meaning that if you purchase an item through my link, I get a few cents! This will not affect the price you pay and you definitely aren’t required to purchase through these links but if you do, I thank you for supporting Endless May! You can read more in my disclosure.)

The DSLR Cameras I Use

I personally use the Nikon D5500 and the Nikon D3300. I love both and highly recommend them. They are lightweight for DSLR cameras and my D5500 has a built in wifi option meaning I can pair it with my phone for easy image access on the go.

Great Point & Shoot Cameras

There is a huge range when it comes to point & shoot cameras. Here are some options that are worth checking out:

Cheaper Range
Sony DSCW800/B 20.1 MP Digital Camera (Black)

Nikon Coolpix L340 20.2 MP Digital Camera with 28x Optical Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black)

More Expensive Range

Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 16-50mm Power Zoom Lens

Canon PowerShot SX700 HS Digital Camera – Wi-Fi Enabled (Black)

Keeping Your Camera Safe During Travels

It is important to keep your camera safe from damage, theft & loss while you are traveling. The last thing you want to have happen is invest in a good camera before a trip only to come home without it. Here are some tips that can help:

1. Never put your camera in the same compartment of a bag as a water bottle or drink.
2. Use the neck strap or wrist strap that comes with your camera so it is not only easily accessible but also less likely to be dropped.
3. Invest in a good camera bag if you really want to make sure it is ok. This YouTube video I made shows what I keep in my travel/camera bag.
4. Consider purchasing camera insurance. I personally don’t have this but if you want to go the extra step, it is worth looking into.
5. Care for your lens(es). Your lens is arguably the most delicate part of the camera. Don’t let dirt, sand or water make its way into or onto the lens!
6. Don’t leave your camera on a table where it can be easily grabbed and stolen.

I hope these tips helped you in picking out a camera for your next trip! Let me know in the comments below what type of camera you use when traveling.

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