Selects: Top 9 Mirrorless Cameras for Travel Photography

Picking the right camera for travel photography can be trickier than deciding where to go.

As a genre, travel photography can include anything from immortalising family vacations to shooting for travel magazines. Travel photography demands a camera that can adeptly capture various scenes, from landscapes to wildlife to architecture to portraits. And, if you’re a travel photographer, you’re always on the move. So you’ll want versatile, adaptable and lightweight camera gear that can handle many different scenarios. 

Mirrorless cameras are particularly well-suited to travel photography. They’re available in a range of sensor formats, including medium format, full frame and APS-C, and offer many useful features in a portable package. While mirrorless cameras tend to cost more than DSLRs, there are still plenty of affordable options. Mirrorless cameras are also far more versatile than all-in-one compact cameras for travel photography. However, if you are more interested in compact cameras, have a read of our article on the best compact travel cameras.

This article will help you find a mirrorless camera that strikes the perfect balance between performance, features and price for your travel photography. We’ll take a deep dive into all the relevant considerations for travel photography, including each camera’s sensor size, image quality, portability and durability. We’ll propose a few options for travel photography lenses, too.

Our recommended mirrorless cameras for travel photography:

1. Best All-rounder: Sony A7 IV

2. Best for Beginners: Nikon Z50

3. Best Full-frame: Nikon Z7 II

4. Best Lightweight: Sony A7C

5. Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5

6. Best Micro Four Thirds: Panasonic DC-G9

7. Best Design: Fujifilm X-Pro 2 

8. Best Value: Canon EOS RP

9. Best Medium Format: Fujifilm GFX 50R

Best All-rounder Mirrorless Camera for Travel Photography: Sony A7 IV

For travel photography, our pick for the most well-rounded and versatile mirrorless camera is the full-frame Sony A7 IV. Pair it with the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS or 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II for a setup that can handle just about anything.  

Specs

• 33-megapixel BSI CMOS full-frame sensor

• 5-axis & 5-stop stabilisation

• Hybrid autofocus system, 425 contrast-detect points, 693 phase-detect points

• 4K video, S-Log3 and S.Cinetone colour profiles

• 659 grams

Upsides

• Excellent image quality and features in a small, lightweight body

• Fantastic low-light ISO performance, up to 204,800 ISO

• 10fps continuous shooting 

• Huge variety of FE-mount lenses available 

Downsides

• No 120fps for slow-motion video in 4K

• Menu system can be a little confusing

The 33-megapixel sensor of the Sony A7 IV provides an excellent balance between resolution and low-light capability. This makes the Sony A7 IV particularly adaptable for shooting throughout the day, in many different weather and lighting scenarios. The autofocus is simple and robust and will nail focus pretty much every time.

If you’re interested in travel videography, the Sony A7 IV delivers on that, too. The in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) comes in clutch here, too, for controlling camera shake during video recording. So, you can expect to get useable footage from handheld footage, an especially useful feature for on-the-go shooting.

The A7 IV opens up access to Sony’s impressive and ever-growing range of FE lenses, as well as third-party lens options from Sigma and Tamron. You can even use an adaptor and mount vintage lenses to create a truly unique look for your travel photography. As these vintage lenses will be manual focus only, you’ll get to make full use of Sony’s excellent focus-peaking feature. 

Pair the Sony A7 IV with the affordable Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 FE. If you’re shooting landscapes, or need a versatile wide-angle zoom, try the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II. The Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD E and Sigma 16-28mm f/2.8 DG DN E are both adaptable and lightweight street photography lenses. 

Best Beginner Mirrorless Camera for Travel Photography: Nikon Z50

The 2019 Nikon Z50 is an impressive mid-range mirrorless camera for travel photography. Today, it’s a fantastic entry-level camera for travel photography beginners. 

Specs

• 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor

• 11 fps continuous shooting with automatic exposure and autofocus

• 4K up to 30fps 

• 2.36 million dot OLED viewfinder

• 450 grams

Upsides

• Compact and weather-sealed body

• Excellent image quality and dynamic range

• Ergonomic grip feels good in hand (but perhaps too small for large hands) 

• Easy to use Wi-Fi image transfer 

• Menu system has help button with useful explanations of functions

Downsides

• Battery life could be better

• No in-body stabilisation

The Nikon Z50 is a great camera for beginner travel photographers. It’s compact, lightweight and durable. Weighing only 450 grams, the Z50 won't weigh you down while trekking around to different locations. 

The Z50 has a tilting screen. Instead of an articulating screen, which sticks out to one side, a tilting screen is more discreet. Particularly useful for street travel photography, you can hold the Z50 at waist level and compose your shot without anyone noticing.

And, with its combination of physical controls and touchscreen operation, the Nikon Z50 offers the best of both worlds. Add the dedicated ‘help’ button, and you get an easy-to-use and intuitive camera for travel photography beginners.

Connectivity and battery life are important for travel photography. The Z50 has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth to transfer photos to your mobile device, edit them, and share them on social media. This keeps storage free on the memory card for more pictures. On a full charge, the battery will only last for about 300 shots. So, you’ll need a few spare batteries. 

The Nikon Z50 hits the sweet spot of features, portability and price for travel photography beginners. For lenses, take a look at the Nikon 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR, or the Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR for a compact travel zoom. 

Best Full-frame Mirrorless Camera for Travel Photography: Nikon Z7 II 

The Nikon Z7 II is the full-frame high-resolution choice for travel photography adventures. This camera is ideal for landscapes, portraits and architecture while travelling. 

Specs

• 45.7-megapixel back-illuminated full-frame sensor

• 5-axis in-body image stabilisation 

• 64 min native ISO

• Dual media card slots

• Upgraded EN-EL15c battery

• 4K video at 60 fps

• 705 grams

Upsides

• Great image quality and dynamic range

• Good low-light autofocus performance

• Minimum ISO of 64 useful in full sun

• SD, XQD and CFexpress compatibility

• Bright viewfinder 

Downsides

• Autofocus could be more intuitive

Despite its full-frame sensor, the Z7 II body is fairly compact and weighs only 705 grams with a memory card and battery. This makes it easy to carry around all day when exploring locations and capturing travel photography. The 5-axis in-body image stabilisation provides up to 5 stops of stabilisation for reducing blur from camera shake. This stabilisation allows you to shoot at slower shutter speeds and in low-light situations without needing a tripod. Continuous high-speed shooting up to 10fps lets you reliably capture fleeting moments and fast action when travelling. This is useful for everything from candid street photography to dynamic wildlife encounters.

The Nikon Z7 II is an extremely capable camera with superb image quality and modern features.  Nikon has all the zoom ranges covered with the professional 14-24mm f/2.8 S, the 24-70mm f/2.8 S and the 24-120mm f/4 S for a wide range in one lens. 

Best Lightweight Mirrorless Camera for Travel Photography: Sony A7C

The Sony A7C is a full-frame camera hiding in a tiny body, yet it manages to pack many features. 

Specs

• 24-megapixel back-illuminated full-frame sensor

• Eye tracking autofocus system

• 4K video at up to 30 fps

• Fully articulating 921k-dot touchscreen

• 2.36 million-dot electronic viewfinder

• 5-axis image stabilisation

• 509 grams

Upsides

• Ultra-portable body

• Impressive and easy-to-use autofocus system

• Solid for both photos and video

• Convenient USB charging

• Excellent build quality

• 5-axis stabilisation

Downsides

• Small viewfinder

• Menu system a little complicated

• No built-in flash

The Sony A7C is like a Sony A7 III, with the addition of improved autofocus. The key difference is that it lives in a much smaller and lighter body, and somehow Sony barely had to make any compromises. 

Paired with the small Sony 28-60mm f/4-5.6 or 40mm f/2.5 G, you get a truly compact, full-frame mirrorless setup for travel photography. Its small body comes with relatively few compromises, but one of these is the small viewfinder. The shooting experience is therefore only adequate, at best.

Best APS-C Mirrorless Camera for Travel Photography: Fujifilm X-T5

The Fujifilm X-T5 is Fujifilm’s second camera to come equipped with the astonishing X-Trans 5 sensor. Add in-body image stabilisation, and this camera is a compelling option for travel photographers.

Specs

• 40-megapixel back-illuminated APS-C sensor

• X-Trans colour filter array

• 15fps continuous shooting with autofocus

• In-body image stabilisation rated for 7 stops

• Dual SD card slots

• 557 grams

Upsides

• Simply the best JPEGs from any APS-C camera

• Almost unbelievable  RAW dynamic range

• 160-megapixel Pixel Shift images

• 1/180,000 max shutter speed with electronic shutter

• Excellent build quality

• Great battery life

Downsides

• Significant rolling shutter in video

• Pixel Shift mode requires a computer for post-processing

The Fujifilm X-T5 is compact and light, has great build quality, and is jam-packed with mirrorless features. The X-T5 is therefore a terrific choice for any travel photographer.  

For us, the Fujifilm X-T5 has two stand-out features. First is Pixel Shift, which takes a series of RAW images and—by using IBIS—moves the sensor to get an ultra-high-resolution image. This is great for detail-oriented work. Second, its fantastic image quality. Considering it has an APS-C sensor, the tonality and detail are exceptional. 

Paired with excellent JPEG performance, thanks to Fujifilm's colour science, it feels like the camera is producing magic. Helped in large part by the 19 film simulation modes. But being a professional camera, the RAW images are astonishing and allow for even more dynamic range and detail. 

While the X-T5 is ideal for travel photographers, the video suffers from too much rolling shutter and, limited detail and quality. If you're more into videography, then you'll want to look at Fujifilm’s video powerhouse, the Fujifilm X-H2S. 

Fujifilm makes some fantastic glass, we would recommend the excellent all-purpose 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR. If you don’t need that much reach, the 10-24mm f/4 R OIS is great. Or, if you want a really compact lens, then the 23mm f/2 R WR is the one.

To learn more about the camera's impressive capabilities, check out our Fujifilm X-T5 review. 

Best Micro-four-thirds Camera for Travel Photography: Panasonic DC-G9

As Micro Four Thirds sensors are smaller than APS-C and full-frame sensors, the cameras are usually smaller and weigh less, too. Micro Four Thirds cameras are particularly well suited to travel photography due to their compact design, making them less obstructive and more discreet than bulkier cameras. And the feature-rich Panasonic DC-G9 is one of the best. 

Specs

• 20.3-megapixel sensor with no AA filter

• 5-axis in-body image stabilisation

• 80-megapixel RAW and/or JPEG files using High-Resolution mode

• 20 fps burst with continuous autofocus using the electronic shutter 

• 3.68 million-dot electronic viewfinder

• 4K/60 fps video

• 658 grams

Upsides

• Very good image stabilisation

• JPEG noise reduction and sharpness is great

• Rugged, weather-sealed body with a large grip

Downsides

• Resolution and detail might not be enough for some people

• Autofocus joystick is not very responsive

The G9 is one of the most well-balanced Micro Four Thirds cameras. It can do just about everything very well, all in a small package. Although not a modern phase-detect autofocus system, the contrast detect system is reliable. We also get the ability to shoot at a ridiculous 20fps burst mode, using the electronic shutter. So,  if you are travelling to shoot wildlife, then this feature will appeal to you. 

The Panasonic G9 in-body image stabilisation is impressive. One benefit of the smaller sensor is that it is easier to stabilise. This helps to neutralise any unwanted camera shake, achieving sharp focus and making it less reliant on a tripod or monopod.

The G9’s magnesium-alloy body is rugged and sturdy, and its textured rubber-like grips make the camera feel good in hand. The weather-sealed body helps give you a little extra peace of mind.

The battery can capture an impressive 920 shots per charge, reducing the need to recharge frequently. Overall, the Panasonic G9 is designed for travel photographers who want a capable and portable camera. Its image quality, performance, durability and features make it a great choice.

We'd recommend starting with the Panasonic 12-35mm f/2.8 ASPH Power OIS.  Or, if you need a wider range of focal lengths, get the Olympus 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II.

Most Stylish Mirrorless Camera for Travel Photography: Fujifilm X-Pro 2 

The Fujifilm X-Pro 2 is a professional quality retro-looking camera that gets our vote for the most stylish and street-friendly camera. Nothing else on the list offers a unique shooting experience like the X-Pro 2. 

Specs

• 24-megapixel APS-C sensor

• 2.36 million-dot OLED/Optical hybrid viewfinder

• 15 film simulation modes

• 8 fps continuous shooting

• 273 autofocus points (169 phase-detect)

• 507 grams

Upsides

• Stylish, discreet and retro design

• Excellent JPEG output with a wide array of film simulations available

• RAW performance also fantastic

• Great customisation options

• Autofocus feels responsive and snappy

Downsides

• Average battery life 

• Lacklustre video

Released in 2016, the Fujifilm X-Pro 2 still shines as a fantastic and stylish travel camera. It delivers very good image quality, is surprisingly fast and feels great to hold and operate. Compared to DSLRs and medium to large mirrorless cameras, the X-Pro 2 looks more subtle and low-key. This allows you to shoot candid street photos discreetly during your travels. 

The physical dials of the X-Pro 2, along with the aperture rings on XF lenses, help you quickly adjust your settings without taking your attention away from the shot. 

The built-in film simulation modes produce interesting, creative images reminiscent of old film stocks like ACROS, Velvia and Astia. Straight out of the camera, without editing, these film simulation modes give a retro vibe to your travel shots. So, you can post them directly to your social media with minimal effort. 

The unique hybrid viewfinder combines both optical and electronic views in one viewfinder. You can see the scene au naturel through the optical viewfinder, before switching to the electronic viewfinder to preview your final image. 

Fujifilm offers a great selection of lenses with character and charm. Start with the Fujifilm 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS for versatility, the 23mm f/2 R WR for a traditional street experience, or the 56mm f/1.2 R for portraiture.

Best Value Mirrorless Camera for Travel Photography: Canon EOS RP  

For travel photography, Canon’s entry-level full-frame represents excellent value. The Canon EOS RP is small, surprisingly light and offers access to Canon’s strong library of lenses. 

Specs

• 26.2-megapixel full-frame Dual Pixel sensor

• 4K/24 fps (with 1.7x crop)

• Eye tracking autofocus

• 2.36 million dot electronic viewfinder

• Fully articulating touchscreen

• 485 grams

Upsides

• Very good JPEG quality

• Surprisingly compact and light

• Comfortable ergonomics and good grip

• Classic Canon colours and contrast

• Fast autofocus

• Great value

• Strong connectivity options

Downsides

• Poor battery life

• Slow burst and continuous shooting speed

• Lack of in-body image stabilisation 

There are many reasons to love the Canon EOS RP. The autofocus is impressively quick, the camera is small and light, and you can shoot 4K video too.

If you already have a set of EF lenses, you can use them with the Canon EF-EOS RMount Adapter. Or, sell or trade and upgrade to a fully-native mirrorless setup.

The RP carries on Canon’s gorgeous and natural feeling colours. Shooting JPEGs, the photographs are punchy, rendered quite beautifully and with great contrast. 

For travel photographers on a budget, the RP is arguably the best value full-frame camera from Canon right now. For its price, compact size, overall performance and travel-friendly features, it’s a hard one to beat. 

In terms of zoom lenses for travel, we’d recommend the Canon 24-105mm f/4 L IS, which is an incredibly sharp and versatile lens. The Canon 14-35mm f/4 L IS is another great option, too.

Best Medium-format Mirrorless Camera for Travel Photography: Fujifilm GFX 50R

Travel photographers, if you want to shoot medium format without breaking your back—or the bank—the Fujifilm GFX 50R is a fantastic option. Designed to appear like a rangefinder-style camera, the 50R captures extremely detailed images. 

Specs

• 51.4-megapixel medium format sensor

• 3.69M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder

• Tilting touchscreen

• Autofocus joystick

• 775 g

Upsides

• Incredible image quality, detail and dynamic range

• GFX lenses are impressive

• Great value for traditionally expensive medium-format

Downsides

• Not as many physical controls as the Fujifilm GFX 50S

• Sluggish menu system

• Relatively slow autofocus

Shooting medium format is now more accessible than ever, especially with used medium-format bodies. Certain models, like the GFX 50R, are now relatively lightweight. These cameras, which were traditionally used only in the studio, are now light enough to carry around outdoors, all day. While these are still slower and generally more expensive than full-frame cameras, medium-format mirrorless cameras offer the ultimate image quality and detail. 

The Fujifilm GFX 50S, Fujifilm GFX 50R or Hasselblad X1D-50c are all excellent mirrorless options for medium-format travel photography. These cameras all lend themselves to travel by keeping the weight down, although do consider that the Fujifilm G fit lenses and the Hasselblad X fit lenses can be on the bulky side. So, you might want to just bring one lens. 

Medium format probably isn’t the right choice for first-time travel photographers, but these cameras are exciting and can produce phenomenal results. 

For double the megapixels, you could go even further into medium-format with the Fujifilm GFX 100 II or Hasselblad X2D 100c for truly deluxe travel photography. 

Conclusion

Mirrorless cameras have revolutionised travel photography. Their compact size and low weight make them easy to carry around all day. Mirrorless cameras offer features like image stabilisation and intelligent autofocus, which allow you to capture sharp, in-focus shots, even when handholding the camera. 

The Sony A7 IV is the best overall mirrorless camera for travel photography. The A7 IV offers pro-level performance across the board. But, when choosing the right camera, you’ll need to consider a range of factors based on your budget, creative requirements and personal preferences. Hopefully, this article has provided you with all the information to help you make that decision.

Looking for more travel photography content?

This article is part of the MPB Guide to Travel Photography, our comprehensive look at the travel photography genre with advice, recommended camera equipment and interviews with some of the most exciting travel photographers today.