Best Travel Camera Backpack: How to Choose One?

Under $75

3. TARION RB-02 Camera Backpack With Waterproof Rain Cover

The first thing you’ll notice about this backpack is the appearance. It’s very much different from most other bags out there.

Is different good?

This is the kind of bag you’d want to wear on a short outing to the city or a local museum. A destination where you might not need a ton of gear.

This backpack doesn’t have a ton of external pockets.

Outside of a few zippers, you’ll need to access everything inside the main compartment. However, for the size, the main compartment is excellent.First, there’s a dedicated laptop sleeve, which is fantastic.

The backpack is also, much like the canvas backpack, broken down into two sections. There’s a top portion, where it’s an open space, allowing you to drop in your camera, extra sweatshirt or other odds and ends. The bottom portion is really where the camera backpack feature comes in. It has a number of partition options, each of which allows you to customize it to fit your needs.

Now, if you have a telephoto lens it probably isn’t going to fit, but anything smaller than that and you’re good to go.

There’s even a fantastic quick-release battery compartment. This way, you can just pop the top and grab the batteries.

And we all know, you’ll need to change your battery or the memory card at the worst time, so having this feature is nice.

There is no internal compartment for a tripod, but there are a side clip and strap for one, which secures the tripod to the backpack. This is a nice feature and helps free up some internal space for other equipment.

The padding on the backpack is a bit thin, so it’s not something you’d want to go hiking with.

However, for those city shoots, this is a great backpack for the price.

Under $150

5. Incase DSLR Pro Pack Black 2

Up to this point, the other laptop bags have been dedicated more toward the average photographer or the budding photog who hasn’t expanded his or her collection of gear.

This bag is the first to really give a professional the kind of space needed.

The backpack has a number of helpful, easy access compartments, with slots for tablets, laptops, writing equipment and other gear you might want to have on hand.It doesn’t have any free, open pouches like the other equipment. Everything is a partition, so you can secure everything.

Open up the rear zipper, which opens up the entire backpack, and you have room for all of your lenses (including a telephoto lens). This total open zipper is good when you have space to place the backpack down on the studio floor.

At the top of the backpack, there’s a quick access compartment, which allows you to easily pull out your camera.

The entire interior can be optimized for your personal needs.

The only downside at all to this backpack is the lack of a tripod carrying strap.

Smartphone Cameras

Since virtually nobody can do without a phone, you can invest in one that has a great camera and spare yourself buying other stuff. Nowadays, there are many options for Smartphones that have fascinating cameras. As a backpacker, a phone might be all you need on your trip, no need to carry more than that.

It seems like the best two options out there are Google Pixel 5 and iPhone 12 Pro. That’s why we will compare the two phones for you to choose which one suits you better.

Generally, both phones have amazing built-in hardware and software (although Pixel 5 seems to be better in that aspect). However, in this section, we will only focus on the cameras.

Google Pixel 5

Google Pixel 5 is a great choice for you if you want a high-end phone that costs less than €650. Investing in a phone like that offers many things, like high performance for example. And the dual-camera system with ultra-wide-angle units is one of the best things about the phone.

Copyright: Android Authority

Google software processes the images taken, making it a great phone that can take high-quality pictures in low-light and indoor Environments. The camera system on this phone offers an excellent dynamic range.

Apple iPhone 12 Pro

Aside from the fact that iPhone 12 Pro is a great, high-performance phone, its camera is, so far, the best one Apple can pull. The images that iPhone 12 Pro takes are characterized by their sharpness and vivid colors. The triple-lens camera of the iPhone 12 Pro can take photos that seem full of life. Documenting your trips to the wilderness needs an iPhone 12 Pro.

Copyright: Phone Arena

When compared to Google Pixel 5, iPhone 12 Pro’s pictures seem to be way more appealing to the eyes according to most online reviews. Also, the video recording on iPhone 12 Pro is very advanced. However, when it comes to low light, Pixel 5 seems to be better than iPhone 12 Pro in taking pictures.

Action Cameras For Backpacking

Let’s be honest, the vast majority of backpackers are going to be doing some sort of water-based activity: for example diving, snorkelling or even white water rafting. And the ones that are somehow allergic to water will be jumping out of planes, skiing in the Rockies or biking through the mountains.

You are going to need a strong, waterproof camera that has various ways of attaching to different parts of your body. The sensors inside action cameras are small so the sheer quality of the picture is not going to be the same quality as the other cameras in this list.

However, as a backpacker, you’ll find the small size and ruggedness means you’ll have your action camera in your pocket more often than not.

Name	Go Pro Hero 10	Go Pro Hero 8	DJI OSMO Action 2
Weight	158g	126g	56g
Video Resolution	5.3k	4k	4k
Image Stabilisation	10/10	9/10	10/10
Best Feature	Front Selfie Screen	Go Pro Quality	Stick Anywhere
Price	Check Amazon	Check Amazon	Check Amazon

Go Pro Hero 8

The Hero 8 is my top recommendation for the best backpacking camera for thrill-seekers. You might be wondering why not the Hero 10 and that’s because of the price and limited consumer improvements between the two.

Let me explain. The Hero 8 has 4k video and super slow-mo at 1080p. It has world-class image stabilization to give you gimbal-like video footage whatever you may be doing. It has exceptional photography capability for a camera in this class and it uses the exact same mounting method as the Hero 10

All of this for hundreds of dollars less.

If you need the best of the best then scroll down then order the Hero 10 here. If you want to save money and have no regrets then order the Hero 8 here!

• Incredible Image Stabilisation
• Lowest Price
• Waterproof Body
• Phone Connectivity

No Front Screen

Go Pro Hero 10

As I said above, the best of the best right now is the Go Pro Hero 10. And if you need this level of quality in your life then check out the prices here.

Basically, everything about the Hero 8 is very slightly improved with the Hero 10. Video resolution is higher, image stabilisation is slightly better, photos are slightly better resolved, etc.

However, the biggest single difference is the inclusion of the front-facing screen which gives selfie-takers and vloggers a much easier time. If you think you’ll be using the action cam for vlogging or selfies a lot of the time then you should seriously consider the Hero 10.

Click here to have a look at prices on Amazon now.

• Incredible Image Stabilisation
• Go Pro Pedigree
• Front Facing Camera
• Phone Connectivity

More expensive than the GoPro Hero 8/9

Osmo Action 2

It looks like the original Osmo Action 2 did not hit off as well as DJI wanted it to because they are back with a complete redesign and shift in the tried and tested action camera category.

And to be fair to them it does look very impressive at first glance. You only have to see the weight (56g) which is nearly a third of the Go Pro Hero 10, to see that this is special.

So let’s look at the good first. It’s tiny, it has 4k slow-mo, waterproof up to 10m, incredible image stabilisation, and a really cool reusable adhesive mount.

However, don’t be thinking you’ll be attaching this to bikes and speedboats etc, as the hold is not good enough for that.

Also, the battery life of the main body of the camera is quite small so you will definitely be needing the power add on. And if you want a front-facing screen for vlogging and selfies then you will also need the front-facing camera add on. This all gets quite expensive.

I like the Osmo Action 2 but I am sticking with my Hero 8 for now.

Click here to have a look at prices on Amazon now.

Short Version

If you’re the average backpacker then you are going to want a decent point and shoot. You cannot go wrong with the following 3 cameras!

Decent Zoom Camera – We constantly update this camera to make sure you get brilliant shots as well as have a great zoom range in order to capture everything far away as well as close by. This is a must! It happens to currently be the Panasonic LUMIX ZS70K which is a fantastic all-around camera that will fit into small spaces and do you well throughout all your travels.

Current Action Camera Recommendation – I nearly always recommend the previous version of the Go Pro series – in this case, the Hero 9 – This is because Go Pro is known for very slight incremental updates so getting the previous version is nearly exactly the same but cheaper. Go Pro won’t let you down so check out the current price here!

Current Drone Recommendation – It has to be the DJI Mavic Mini 2. Recently the Mavic Mini 3 came out but the additional price for the few extra features does not quite make it onto my everyday traveller recommendation just yet. The Mini 2 will fit into a tiny space and capture unbelievable vacation shots. If you are big into social media then the Mini 3 might be the better shout due to the new portrait mode so check that out too.

Contents

If you’re about to hit the trail or disappear into the world on an epic adventure then the chances are you’re going to want to get your hands on one of the best backpacking cameras to capture every moment. But you don’t need to spend a pretty penny to get one! Of course, there are plenty of cameras out there running into the thousands but what do you actually NEED?

Don’t waste your time looking at cameras you’ll never use. Firstly you have to decide who you are, and not in the hippy sense! Just decide which of the following you mostly relate to and skip straight to the section for you.

A Normal Backpacker: An Average Joe Or Joanna

The vast majority of people heading out into the world just want a good solid camera to capture their memories. You’re not looking to get on the cover of National Geographic but at the same time, you don’t want it breaking within the first few months.

Adrenaline Junkie

Are you going to be jumping out of planes into an Australian bay? Paragliding over the Brazilian mountains? Diving with humpback whales? Then you’re going to need a camera that attaches to your body! You probably already know that but you’ll be surprised at my top recommendation.

Enthusiast Or Blogger

Are you the type of person who spends hours researching the latest lenses, cameras and techniques in order to maximise your photography skills on the road? Are your pictures your pride and joy when you get home? Or do you need it for a professional reason, like a blog, and need them to be fantastic quality to blow away your audience?

Straight Up Clumsy Or Diver

Come on, you know who you are – you’ll just drop everything in the first few days/hours of owning it. The rugged, waterproof, solid backpacking cameras may not be the most beautiful but when you drop them down the toilet or they fall out of the plane (maybe) then you’ll still have a camera at the end of it.

On the other hand, these cameras will perform the best out of this list underwater so divers should definitely check them out.

. I don’t know if the flash pun really works but I was running out!

Read More: Loads Of Thoughtful Gifts For The Backpackers In Your Lives

Safety

If your bag is going to get stolen, there’s not much you can do to prevent this and I don’t recommend those heavy metal systems that people buy but then never use. This is why travel insurance is good and you should carry your most valuable possessions in your daypack, not your backpack.

However, the reality is that the majority of thefts are due to convenience, so in this case, a backpack that has lockable zippers will help ward off any wandering hands most of the time, making a bag with safety features such as this a top contender for the best travel backpack.

In 5+ years of travel, I’ve personally only experienced one theft and it was completely preventable. It was the last week on my RTW trip and I got comfortable and lazy. It was the one time in my entire 9-month trip that I didn’t carry my bra pouch with my money. Instead, I left it hidden in my top loading backpack that didn’t lock and someone stole $100 cash. I suspect it was a girl in my dorm.

In another incident, someone rummaged through my belongings while I was away on a dive trip. When I came back, everything was out of place but all my valuables (money and passport) were locked away inside my zippered side panel backpack so the thief didn’t steal anything. I suspect it was the hostel workers.

Moral of the story is: get a backpack that LOCKS.

Vanguard HAVANA 41 Backpack

If you’ve been wondering how to pack a camera bag for travel, the Vanguard HAVANA 41 backpack is about to make your life a lot easier. 

Pros: The stylish backpack disguises the fact that it’s a camera bag, making for an excellent travel companion. It features a 13” laptop pocket in the back, as well as a tablet pocket. The main compartment, while small, features multiple smaller pockets for accessory storage. The main DSLR body protection is removable. Its interior dividers can be customized to fit up to a DSLR and two lenses. 

Cons: While we’re a little bummed this backpack isn’t water resistant, it does come with a rain cover, which you would normally need to buy separately.

Though it doesn’t hold a ton of larger pieces of equipment, it’s great if you’re looking for the best small travel camera backpack.

Additionally, it easily connects to traditional luggage handles, proving that this is the best camera backpack for airline travel.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★★

Backpack Highlights

• Best small travel camera backpack.
• Best travel camera backpack for airline travel.
• Best budget friendly camera backpack.

Vanguard HAVANA 41 Backpack Quick Specs

• Price: $89.99
• External size: n/a
• Weight: n/a
• What Fits: DSLR, 1-2 lenses, 13” laptop, flash, accessories
• Color: Blue, khaki/brown, tan

Lowepro ProTactic Backpack 350 AW II Backpack

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Compared to other options, yes, the Lowepro ProTactic Backpack 350 AW II Backpack is rather pricey. However, it’s actually a very good value for money as it can be easily modified for all kinds of scenarios. Featuring a modular system, the Velcro dividers can be moved to accommodate specific gear (including your precious drone) or dumped in favor of open space.

By using this camera backpack for hiking, you can easily carry up to 2 standard DSLRs. We also like the rear-opening lid that contains a zipped compartment for a 13-inch laptop, in case you want to use this backpack for work. However, the real genius is the front’s succession of loops that can be used to attach your accessories like a neoprene flash holder, a tripod toe-cup and straps, and even your phone case!

What to Look for in a Travel Backpack

Front-Loader: When shopping for a backpack, you will often be presented with  tall, cylindrical, top-loading, hiking backpacks. They look the part, and everyone seems to have one, so they must be great… Right? Hell no. Don’t be ashamed, I made the same mistake with my first backpack, too. A top-loading backpack opens at the top, like a garbage bag. The problem arises when you want to get something out of the bag, and have to unpack everything to find it. The alternative is a front-loader. Front-loaders, like suitcases, allow you to open the front of the bag, giving you access to everything in your bag. Make the right choice and opt for a front-loader. My first pack was a top-loader. These days, it only sees the light of day at music festivals because I could not care less if it was stolen. I really despise top-loaders… Can you tell?

Water Resistance: A backpack doesn’t need to be totally waterproof, but some waterproofing will come in handy if you are caught in a shower. As I sometimes travel during the wet season, I opted for a bag with a built-in rain cover for convenience. Some bags don’t have them, but you can always purchase a separate rain cover if you need one… or carry an emergency garbage bag.

Multiple Compartments: The ideal bag should have multiple compartments. I personally like the typical twin compartments – a  second compartment is a great place to keep a sleeping bag, muddy hiking boots, or a grotty beach towel separate from fresh attire. Also check if the backpack has an internal organiser. Organisers can help keep your electronics, washing, shirts and pants separate. As an alternative you could use packing cubes, which I love.

Lockable Zips: Make sure each compartment has two zippers which you can overlap and lock together. Don’t worry if the pack doesn’t come with padlocks. If it does they probably aren’t that great. Thefts I hear about are usually because people have left things lying around, or unlocked. A small lock is often enough to deter opportunistic thieves. I love my little Abus 65/20 padlocks, which are the perfect size for luggage.

Padded Hip & Shoulder Straps: If a backpack does its job properly, much of the weight will be sitting on your hips, so make sure the hip belt is padded, comfortable and adjustable. This will help distribute the weight properly between your back and hips. Similarly, good, ergonomic, padded shoulder straps will make the weight sit comfortably, and prevent straps from cutting into you. A chest strap is also useful to at stopping the weight cutting into your shoulders.

Lumbar Back Support: Avoid packs with flat backs. Look for a backpack with lumbar support. This will support your lower back, improving posture by keeping your spine in a neutral arch, and distribute weight more evenly.

Support Frame: Make sure that your backpack has an internal support frame of some sort. Some cheaper backpacks, and hiking packs don’t have them, but a frame provides great support for your back, and helps to keep your gear secure. Most backpacks these days have internal frames which are much prettier.I actually quite like a semi-exposed frame, as it gives me something to wrap my cable lock and chunkier Abus 65/40 padlock around, which I use to attach my backpack to a static item if the place I’m staying doesn’t have any lockers.

7. Best Drone Backpack: Lowepro DroneGuard Backpack

This drone backpack is specially designed to carry and protect your DJI Mavic Pro. The DroneGuard also has plenty of room for your drone transmitter and 5 extra batteries. Plus, you’ll have room for a 15 inch laptop and a 10 inch tablet. Finally, room for 2 GoPros and a shoulder pocket for easy access to your mobile phone. All of this easily makes the Lowepro DroneGuard the best drone backpack for travel and hiking.

Lowepro LP37099 DroneGuard BP 250 – A specialized drone backpack providing rugged protection for your DJI Mavic Pro/Mavic Pro Platinum, 15” laptop and 10” tablet,Black/Fractal

• Flexible dividers securely house DJI Mavic Pro, transmitter, up to 5 extra batteries, 15 laptop and 10 tablet with additional space for Osmo and 2 Go Pros or mirrorless kit plus personal items
• Targeted lightweight protection – Compression-molded Form Shell technology protects gear from impact without added weight or bulk
• Cradle Fit pocket suspends and protects 15 laptop and up to 10 tablet
• Removable organization panel with elastic straps keeps fragile parts and charging cords secure in the case or on the go

Under $400

12. Ona Camps Bay Camera and Laptop Backpack

This is more along the lines of a designer travel backpack that happens to hold some camera equipment.

It’s a sturdy construction and looks good, but you don’t have much room for anything.It does fit up to a 17-inch laptop, which is fantastic, plus up to seven additional lenses (although unless you’re counting small, fisheye lenses, you’ll only fit around four or five attachments.

This is a nice looking backpack and some helpful side compartments, but if you’re shopping for a camera backpack specific pack, this is missing a number of features you’d want. And for the price, you’re better off going with something else.

TYPES OF CAMERAS:

RUGGED CAMERAS

– For a lot of adventure and outdoor sports –

Tough or rugged cameras have been on the market for a while, being popular among backpackers. They’re designed to be submersible down to 10 or 20 meters and withstand hard weather, hits and drops. There’s no doubt that these features make them a great choice for climbing, snorkeling, surfing, cycling, etc. However, these cameras tend to be expensive due to their solid construction and the internal components, like the sensor, aren’t the best. They’ll do the job, but don’t expect amazing image quality.

ACTION CAMERAS

– For recording high-quality video while practicing sports –

These are the GoPro-like cameras you’ve seen many times. If you take a look at the last GoPro 7, you’ll understand why it has become so popular among all kinds of travelers. It’s a great option for those who want to record high-quality videos at 4K while practicing outdoor sports. It’s small, lightweight and portable, and the batteries last for quite a while. It comes with great image Hypersmooth stabilization, so it feels more stable compared to previous models. There are many available accessories, so you can use a stick or a head mount, or even attach it to a drone.

POINT AND SHOOTS

– For entry-level photographers looking for something compact and affordable –

These digital cameras are compact, easy to use and inexpensive (most of them). They’re probably the best option if you’re looking for something ultralight with decent image quality.

Please notice that I said “decent” quality. If you’re not into technical photography, they’ll be a good option for recreational hiking and backpacking. At least, they take better photos than most smartphones do. Keep in mind that their sensors are usually 24mm at the wide end, which isn’t too good for landscape photography. If you want advanced features, changeable lenses and better optical quality, take a look at mirrorless and DSLR cameras.

MIRRORLESS

– For great performance at a reduced size –

Mirrorless cameras are the latest revolution in the photo industry. They’ve become incredibly popular because they’re lighter than the bulkier DSLRs while offering top-end image and video resolutions. In a nutshell, they offer pretty much the same image quality as bulky reflex cameras while being ultralight and compact.

Actually, some advanced mirrorless cameras offer even better quality than DSLRs of a similar price. You can take professional photos without adding much room to your backpack. Like DSLRs, they use changeable lenses, which gives you many new possibilities, improving landscape photography.

The main downside: These cameras and their interchangeable lenses tend to be quite expensive.

DIGITAL SLR CAMERAS

– For serious photo lovers –

DIGITAL SLR cameras are among the best cameras you can find in terms of sensor quality, features, components and lenses. These are the cameras that most professional photographers use. Keep in mind that they’re also expensive, bulky and heavy.

I love photography almost as much as I do traveling, so I make a sacrifice and always carry a DSLR camera with me. It’s a personal choice. I know it’s bulky but when I look at the photos, I know it’s worth the effort. A few months ago I bought a Nikon 5500 and I think it’s perfect for travel. It’s not as heavy as other cameras (like the Nikon 7200), it’s not expensive for its quality, it’s super versatile and it takes amazing photos.

Unless you’re planning to make a living out of photography, I’d never recommend that you buy a very expensive DSLR for backpacking and hiking. They have a solid body that makes them extra heavy. Plus, you never know … you could get robbed or lose it. Most budget DSLRs take awesome pictures. Keep in mind that you must also use a good lens.

4. Best Travel Camera Bag Under $50: CADeN Camera Backpack

The CADeN camera backpack is on the smaller end of travel camera bags, but it has a surprising amount of room inside. It can easily carry 1 dslr camera with an attached lens, plus 5 more lenses. Or you could configure the adjustable compartments for a DJI drone or other camera accessories. Plus, the CADeN backpack comes with an internal iPad pouch. Finally, it’s made of waterproof nylon and has two mesh pouches on either side. Perfect for carrying a water bottle and a tripod on your next hike.

CADeN Camera Backpack Bag Professional for DSLR/SLR Mirrorless Camera Waterproof, Camera Case Compatible for Sony Canon Nikon Camera and Lens Tripod Accessories

• 【Product Overview】CADeN D6 camera backpack dimensions: 11*5.5*14.2 inches/28*14*36 cm, Weight 1.74lb/0.79kg. This professional photography camera backpack fits for men/women photographers, lightweight and easy to carry.
• 【Large Capacity】CADeN D6 camera bag fits 1 camera bodies+4 lens+flash+ipad+tripod place+other accessories. Or for DJI drone storage.
• 【Multi-Functions】①Scratch and water proof material protects your camera from damage; ②Hidden zipper design of the front pocket, best for your daily accessories storage; ③High-elasticity mesh bag on one side for your bottle/umbrella storage, the other side of the camera bag is tripod or trekking pole place; ④Convenient handle multi carrying way; ⑤Lengthened shoulder belts are made of high elasticity, decompression memory foam, very good design for Americans.
• 【Multi-Functions】⑥CADeN alloy zipper won’t rusty within 3 years, and won’t break within 5 years; ⑦One side for ipad storage with sticker fixed inside the camera bag; ⑧Inner bag paddings are made of 7-layer PE foam and PP board, protect your camera from shocking, very durable; ⑨Shoulder belts and handle that connected with camera rusksack have taken bar-tack reinforcement technology which load-bearing up to 50kg(110.2lb). Best care for your cameras, lens, flashes, tripod and other accessories.
• 【Perfect Services】1 year warranty- Any problems within 1 year, we will offer a new one for you; 30 years factory with more than 1000 employees focused on camera bag manufacture, trustworthy for you.

Gitzo Adventury 30L Camera Backpack

 

Deemed as one of the best backpacks for wildlife photography, the Gitzo Adventury 30L Camera Backpack is another great travel backpack option.

Pros: This travel camera backpack is massive. The larger backpack makes it easier for photographers to take longer trips in remote locations. Despite its large size, it’s surprisingly lightweight. It has a unique material in that there are squares sewn onto the material. The reason for this is to stop any potential tears from growing- if there’s a small rip, it will stop at the edge of its square.

It’s back-loading design makes it naturally anti theft. It additionally features a waterproof cover, protecting it from rain. Best of all, the inner dividers are removable, making for a versatile backpack filling a variety of needs.

Cons: One major complaint for the Gitzo Adventury 30L Camera Backpack is its lack of water bottle storage and small pockets for accessories. The lack of space for a water bottle is detrimental for anyone looking to use it as a hiking camera backpack. The lack of smaller pockets for accessories is surprising given its size.

Overall though, this is still a great camera backpack option

Style: ★★★☆☆

Build: ★★★★★

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

Gitzo Adventury 30L Camera Backpack Quick Specs

• Price: $199.99
• External size: 23x16x38 cm
• Weight: 2kg
• What Fits: DSLR, 4 lenses, telephoto lens, 13” laptop, tablet, drone, tripod
• Color: Brown

Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III Camera Backpack

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Here we have yet another great camera backpack for travel from Lowepro. The Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III Camera Backpack’s main camera zone can be opened up all the way across the front, so it’s easy to organize. It’s able to house a DSLR with a big zoom lens attached, and there’ll still be enough room for at least 3 other lenses.

The back panel of this backpack has a side-zipped pocket for a 13-inch laptop and tablet, which is bigger than some camera backpacks out there. Of course, there are also 2 other zones for storing accessories and clothes. Aside from that, we find the padded shoulder straps and a hip belt to be very useful as well, especially if you’re planning to wear this backpack for long periods.

Pros:

• Easy access to all gear
• Very spacious
• Plenty of extra pockets
• Has padded shoulder straps and a hip belt
• Durable construction

The Budget Option

Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS

Type: Compact Camera

Megapixels: 20.2

Sensor Size: 1/2.3 inch (6.2mm x 4.6mm)

Lens: 12x zoom (25-300mm eq.) f/3.6-7

Weight: 147g (0.32 lb / 5.19 oz)

Price: Approx $195

Click to View on Amazon

Canon has had a long history of making well-built, good looking compact cameras. The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS isn’t a particularly new camera, but for it’s price, it’s such a great performer.

Packing a 12x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilizer into such a small, slim body is pretty impressive!

A 12x zoom equates to roughly a 25-300mm lens, meaning that you can go from wide angle (for shots of large groups, wide panoramic vistas and city-scapes, for example), all the way to distant shots of wildlife, all in the press of a button!

The aperture range of f/3.6-7 doesn’t make the lens on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS particularly ‘fast’ (i.e. one that can let in a lot of natural light), but the optical image stabilizer does help you achieve a sharper image when the sun begins to set.

A neat feature of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS is the Intelligent IS mode, which helps even the most novice photographer capture clear, steady images, even in lower light. The Intelligent IS automatically analyzes camera movement and applies the ideal shake correction method for the shooting situation, allowing you to focus more on framing and capturing your shot.

Make no mistake – there are many better cameras than the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS, but none that are this good value for money. If you’re on a strict budget, it’s a great option to get a photo that’s a step above one that even the best mobile phone can produce.