My Favourite Travel Camera’s for Capturing the Best Footage On-the-Go
Travel Camera’s come in all shapes, sizes and varieties these days but if you’re like me and want to do the least amount of fiddling to get great shots, photos and video, then here are my top recommendations for travel cameras that will make it easy to click-and-go. You’ll be sure to get the best footage with little or no experience:
iPhone ##
Nothing beats using your phone as the most efficient travel camera. This little device can often take the best travel shots, because you’re almost always guaranteed to have it with you. Sometimes to make your travel footage a bit better, is the right settings. I use the iPhone 15 Pro Max at the moment and here are some of my favourite settings to get the best video footage:
Video: 4K at 25 – 30 FPS (gives it a realistic, cinematic look)
‘Lock Camera’ turned on (so it keeps my settings from my last picture or video – find this under settings + camera)
‘Most Compatible’ over ‘High Efficiency’ (settings + camera + formats – bare in mind this will use a little more memory)
I like to turn grid on so I can practice the ‘rule of thirds’ and to ensure picture are somewhat straight
Some general tips to get the best photos or videos:
Your camera needs a second to focus – to get crips clear video, make sure you let your phones camera focus before beginning the video. I normally press record, then attach it to my tripod or stand it up and let it settle for 5seconds while I get my shot ready. This helps keep the footage crisp.
Shoot in Your Phones Native Camera App – I know it can be tempting to shoot footage from within apps like TikTok and Instagram but this will impact the quality of the footage caught. It’s best to film in your phones native ‘camera’ app at 4k, use Capcut or similar to edit and export at 1080p then upload into TikTok or Instagram.
Insta360 X3 – X5 Action Camera
While I capture most of my footage on my iPhone, I also have an Insta360 X3 Action Camera. This is a great camera to catch all those action shots and generally hard to access with a phone, shots. Upgrading from my trusty GoPro Black 5 (which was coming to the end of its life), I chose a 360 to capture more of the action and environment on my travels.
*2025 Update – Insta360 have not disappointed and released an X5 model of this camera. It comes with better night vision and upgraded features. I haven’t upgraded my X3 yet because it still works amazingly – but if you’re in the market for a new 360 camera check it out.
Here are a couple of features the Insta360 X3 offers that I like for travel:
Buy the combo and get a spare battery (good for over 60minutes of 360 video footage), the combo also comes with a selfie stick + case + memory card
Video in 4K and 5K, 360 and Single Lens front or back
Invisible selfie stick for seamless videos of your travels, without a big stick ruining the picture/ima
Web-Cam capabilities + Live Stream while on the go
App support and editing features, including some pretty awesome AI generative features (change background to galaxies etc.)
Some general tips to get the best photos or videos:
I like to use the 4k, 60fp setting when in 360 – while the X3 offers higher, I find it more compatible with social media and editing apps when it’s recorded in 4k (the video file is also smaller – great when you have limited storage while travelling).
You can use other tripods or selfie sticks, but the 360 one is the perfect dimension for it to become “invisible” in your videos.
Pre-set your video settings for Quick Capture, then you can push play and record without mucking around through the menu’s (this is helpful if you are doing action activities etc.)
The Sony ZV-1 is a compact vlogging camera that will take your travel videos and photos to the next level. It’s small size means it easily fits into your bag or pocket, yet it has some of the most powerful features I’ve seen in such a compact DSLR camera. Perfect for travelling.
Here are a couple of reasons why the ZV-1 is worth the expensive price-tag:
1.0-type Exmor RS CMOS sensor: Your images and video will be amazing any lighting situation
4K video recording: High-resolution video with excellent colour and detail – the images and videos come out super clear and bright
Fast Hybrid Autofocus: Unlike your iPhone where you need to wait a second for it to focus, the ZV-1 will capture the best videos and images from the second you push record. It can also catch fast things in motion with super accuracy.
Vari-angle LCD screen: Perfect for vlogging and taking selfies, allowing you to see yourself while filming
Some general tips to get the best photos or videos:
Use the Product Showcase Setting: This setting is ideal for vloggers who want to show off products or items during their travels. It quickly shifts focus from your face to the item you are holding meaning no blurry for no reason shots.
Utilize the Background Defocus: This feature allows you to blur the background while keeping the subject in sharp focus, making your subject stand out more – this is perfect if you are vlogging on location and want the focus to be on you
Take Advantage of the Microphone Input: For better audio quality, use an external microphone. The ZV-1 has a microphone input, making it easy to capture high-quality sound – no more street noises and low quality voice overs.
Fujifilm X-T30 II
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a mirrorless camera that offers excellent image quality and a range of advanced features. It’s perfect for those who want a bit more control over their photography and are looking for a camera that can handle a variety of shooting situations. I don’t actually have this camera, but borrowed a friends for my recent trip to Singapore. At almost $2000, it delivered in terms of quality shots but it was a bit heavier and more awkward to trip around with. If you are looking for quality shots over convenience, this could be your best travel camera.
Key Features:
26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor: Provides high-resolution images with superb color accuracy and detail
X-Processor 4: Ensures fast performance and quick response times
4K video recording: Captures stunning video footage in high resolution
Advanced autofocus system: Tracks moving subjects with ease and precision
Compact and lightweight design: Easy to carry around, making it perfect for travel – while compact and lightweight the Sony ZV-1 is still a better option.
Some general tips to get the best photos or videos:
Experiment with Film Simulation Modes: Fujifilm cameras are known for their film simulation modes, which replicate the look of classic film stocks. This can add a unique and artistic touch to your travel photos.
Use the Electronic Viewfinder: The X-T30 II has a high-resolution electronic viewfinder that makes it easier to compose your shots, especially in bright sunlight.
Take Advantage of the Tilting Touchscreen: The tilting touchscreen makes it easy to shoot from different angles and helps you compose your shots more creatively.
Investing in any of these cameras will enhance your travel photography and videography experience. Whether you prefer the convenience of a smartphone, the versatility of an action camera, or the advanced features of a dedicated camera, there’s an option here to suit your needs.
If you have any comments or questions, feel free to send them to: nicola@prettyfarfromhome.com – checkout my latest post which can be found here.