Physical Address
College House, 2nd Floor, 17 King Edwards Road, London, HA4 7AE
Finding the best zoom cameras for travel can transform your photography adventures from ordinary snapshots to extraordinary memories. Whether you’re capturing distant wildlife on an African safari, documenting architectural details from across a bustling plaza, or shooting landscapes from mountain peaks, the right zoom camera eliminates the need to get physically close to your subjects while maintaining exceptional image quality.
TL;DR: The Nikon Coolpix P1000 leads our list of best zoom cameras for travel with its incredible 125x optical zoom, while budget-conscious travelers should consider the Panasonic Lumix FZ80 with its solid 60x zoom. For ultra-portability, the Canon SX740 offers excellent 40x zoom in a compact design that fits anywhere.
The search for the perfect travel zoom camera involves balancing several crucial factors: optical zoom range, portability, image stabilization, and overall build quality. Modern travel photographers demand cameras that can slip into a pocket or small bag yet deliver professional-grade results when that once-in-a-lifetime shot presents itself. After extensive testing and consultation with fellow travelers, I’ve identified the top zoom cameras that excel in real-world travel conditions.
Table of Contents
Best overall zoom camera for travel- Nikon Coolpix P1000
It’s time to introduce the “big daddy” of travel cameras, the Nikon Coolpix P1000. A little more expensive than Nikon’s B600, but worth every cent.
Sale
NIkon COOLPIX P1000 Superzoom Digital Camera | 125x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization 16 MP 4K…
- 3000 millimeter optical zoom-the most powerful zoom lens; Ever put on a Nikon Coolpix camera
- 4k ultra hd video with HDMI out, stereo sound and an accessory hot shoe
- Rock steady dual detect image stabilization and great low light capability. Vibration reduction:…
This state-of-the-art camera features a fantastic 125x zoom, allowing for the capture of every scene in all its glory.
Classed as a “super zoom” camera, it has a 3000mm glass lens, the most powerful lens ever seen on a Coolpix camera. It also features 4 K Ultra HD video with HDMI output and stereo sound.
You may be aware that in cheaper cameras with such extreme zoom power, tiny camera movements are amplified, causing blurry images. The Coolpix does not suffer from this flaw, as it features a Dual Detect Optical Vibration Reduction system that stabilizes both horizontal and vertical movements. Hence, it’s ideal for travelers with shaky hands.
And it’s not just about the long-distance shots either. The P1000 is also a demon when it comes to Macro photography. The camera reveals the smallest of details beautifully and focuses as close as one ft. (30 cm) from the subject.
There are just too many benefits to owning a P1000, but I won’t bore you with all the technical details. You are quite capable of getting the nitty-gritty on the Amazon website.
Finally, the P1000 is one of my favorite cameras because it eliminates all the guesswork when capturing distant, tricky subjects. I adore the “Moon” mode, which automatically compensates for low-light astrophotography. And I didn’t mention the “Bird Watching” mode, which optimizes the camera’s settings for stunning photographs of these elusive creatures.
Best lightweight zoom camera for travel- Sony RX100 VII
My pick for a lightweight travel camera is the unique Sony RX100 VII. This camera is an excellent choice for most travel photographers, and it’s very reasonably priced for the functionality that you get.
Sale
Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7)
- 20. 1MP 1. 0 Type stacked CMOS sensor, Zeiss Vario Sonnar T 24 200 millimeter F2. 8 F4. 5 large…
- 0. 02 sec. High AF speed, 357 point focal plane Phase detection AF and 425 point contrast detection…
- Up to 20 fps blackout free shooting, using up to 60 times/sec. AF/AE calculations. Diopter…
It has an 8x zoom and can shoot at breakneck burst speeds. It also features a retracting electronic viewfinder (EVF), an easy-to-use touchscreen, and a high-performance one-inch sensor. All this, and it easily fits into your pocket.
The Sony RX100 Mark VII is a pocket powerhouse with a 28-200mm zoom. It can capture pictures at 20 frames per second (fps) in Basic mode and up to 90 fps in Single Burst shooting mode.
Inside its compact body is a 20-megapixel 1-inch sensor, which is impressive for such a small camera. It doesn’t take interchangeable lenses, but the Zeiss 24-200mm lens is more than enough for most travel photographers.
I like the animal eye AF feature, which works well, provided the subject is reasonably close, has well-defined eyes, and isn’t moving too quickly. Pet portraits are easy, but fast-moving animals can be more challenging.
The camera’s autofocus tracking is high-speed and highly effective. It also features 4 K video quality with active mode image stabilization, making this a great all-around travel camera.
Best zoom camera for beginners – Panasonic Lumix ZS200
If you are new to travel photography, you can’t go wrong with the Panasonic Lumix ZS200. It’s straightforward to use and comes with a 3-year warranty should you have any issues.
PANASONIC LUMIX ZS200 15X Leica DC Lens with Stabilization, 20.1 Megapixel, Large 1 inch Low Light…
- [Larger 1 Inch Sensor] 20.1 Megapixels large sensor for brighter and more colorful photos (12800 Max…
- [LEICA DC 15x Lens] Leading class optical zoom performance with a bright F3.3 – 6.4 aperture for…
- [Creative Control] Scene modes, filter modes, adds creativity while traditional aperture and shutter…
This one has more zoom capability than the Sony, offering a whopping 15x optical zoom to make capturing landscapes and distant subjects easy.
With an excellent balance of a large sensor and ideal zoom length, it is regarded by many digital nomads as the perfect travel camera.
As with all of the cameras on my list, it is perfectly sized to slide into your pocket or bumbag and weighs just 1.17 lbs.
Camera enthusiasts also favor Lumix cameras with Leica DC Lenses because of their high performance and reliability.
Along with its 15X LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, the Lumix ZS200 also features hand-shake suppression in photo and video recording modes. And if you’re into macro-photography, you can capture stunning shots as close as 3cm.
Well-suited for both beginners and more advanced photographers, it offers a comprehensive range of shooting modes and advanced options, including raw format shooting and excellent 4K Photo modes.
Finally, this budget-friendly camera features a touch-enabled LCD screen, providing greater control and easier image viewing.
Best zoom bridge camera for traveling – Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
If you’re wondering what a bridge camera is, let me explain. They are halfway between compact cameras and DSLR cameras. With more advanced features than primary compact cameras, they are typically more straightforward and less expensive than DSLR cameras.
Canon Powershot SX70 20.3MP Digital Camera 65x Optical Zoom Lens 4K Video 3-inch LCD Tilt Screen…
- Powerful 65x optical zoom
- 203 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor
- 4K video and 4K time-lapse movie
If you’re searching for a versatile bridge camera with many functions, the Canon SX70 is my top pick. It features an ultra-long zoom, which is hard to beat at 65x, and is one of the most extended zooms on the market without requiring a significant investment.
If you’ve ever owned a Canon camera, you’ll know how well it handles, and the SX70 is no exception.
Although it’s not the smallest on my list, it’s compact for travel enthusiasts, measuring 4.,6measuring 5 x 3.6 inches and weighing 1 lb.
It features a user-friendly EVF (Electronic View Finder), a fully articulating screen (non-touch sensitive), and a comprehensive range of shooting modes. It can also shoot in raw format.
With a 21 mm- 1365 mm wide-angle lens, optical image stabilizer, and a 20.3 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor, you can see craters on the moon or your child’s face in the school play.
The WiFi and Bluetooth-enabled Canon can also shoot realistic 4K videos or 4K time-lapse movies. You won’t get all this with a compact camera, so I’ve included it on my list.
Best budget zoom camera for travel- Nikon Coolpix B600
Next on our list of cameras to take on holiday is the Nikon Coolpix B600, with an impressive 60x optical zoom.
Coolpix B600 Black
- 60x optical zoom, 120x Dynamic Fine Zoom
- 16 Megapixel low-light sensor
- Full HD 1080/60i (50i) videos with 4-Axis Hybrid VR and stereo audio
This model is a welcome upgrade to the earlier B500 model, featuring a lithium-ion battery instead of the outdated AA batteries. The battery is good for about 280 shots and can be charged via a USB cable.
Fortunately, the good points from the previous model have been passed on to its newer sibling, including fully automatic point-and-shoot operation and 1080p video capability.
The Nikon Coolpix B600 is not the flashiest camera on my list, but it gets the job done, and its compact size makes it easy to travel with and use for novices. I appreciate the lens-shift vibration reduction (VR), which helps users maintain sharp and steady shots.
I like the Nikon mainly because of its very modest price tag. Although there’s no 4K video, the device does feature built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing you to wirelessly share your snaps with loved ones or download them to your tablet or laptop.
Image quality is excellent at 16.1MP, and color reproduction is perfect. The Nikon is designed for amateur photographers and is a fantastic camera for those just starting their photographic journeys.
It has several modes that can be accessed with the top mode dial. These include Auto, Creative Mode, Scene, Scene Auto Selector, Smart Portrait, and Movie. There are also 19 scene modes, including Night Shot, Night Portrait, Backlighting, and Sport.
As for the size and weight, its dimensions are 4.79 x 3.91 x 3.21 inches, and it weighs just 1.10 lbs. The screen size is 3 inches, featuring intuitive and straightforward menus.
This baby has a strap, a lens cap (with a cord), a rechargeable battery, a charging AC Adapter, and a USB cable. A memory card is not included; you will need to purchase one separately.
Best value for money travel camera – Panasonic Lumix FZ80
The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 offers fantastic zoom coverage at a modest price.
Panasonic LUMIX 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Lens,…
- Point and Shoot Long Zoom Camera: 18.1 megapixel MOS sensor plus 60X zooms DC Vario lens (20 1220…
- High Resolution View Finder and LCD Display: High resolution 1,170K dot view finder and rear touch…
- 4K video Capture: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160) with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause…
It is equipped with the same lens as Panasonic’s previous model, the FZ70, but surpasses it in almost every other aspect. The FZ80 features an improved shape and finish, an excellent touch-enabled rear LCD, a sharper electronic viewfinder (EVF), WiFi capability, and crystal-clear 4K video (all of which were absent in its predecessor).
The FZ80 can be classified as a bridge point-and-shoot camera, and it’s about the same size as a small SLR. Just like an SLR, this camera features a deep handgrip, making it very comfortable to hold.
It features a tiny (1/2.3-inch) image sensor and an impressive zoom lens, providing a massive 60x zoom function.
Again, it’s small enough to slide into your pocket, measuring just 3.7 x 5.1 x 4.7 inches. It weighs in at approx. 1.4 pounds.
It has a 3-inch fixed rear LCD panel that is very clear at 1,040k dots and sensitive to touch. Tap the screen as you would with your smartphone to set your focus point or navigate the camera’s menus.
WiFi connectivity works well for transferring your pictures. You can also download the Panasonic Image app (free of charge) to transfer photos from your camera to your phone. Then you can edit and share your favorite shots. Like all the best cameras, the FX80 features micro HDMI and micro USB ports on its body, which are used for charging the camera.
On a single charge, you can take approximately 330 shots using the rear LCD or about 240 images when using the electronic viewfinder (EVF).
And if you want to take more than that, plug in your USB power bank for unlimited snapping.
Regarding the video, you get a 4K resolution at a fixed 30fps frame rate. You also have the option to shoot videos at 1080p or 720p, if you wish.
With nearly three thousand reviews, a 4.5-star review, and a price under $300 on Amazon (at the time of writing), you can’t go far wrong with this perfect Zoom travel camera.
Best point and shoot for travel – Canon SX740 HS Point and Shoot
You can easily capture your precious moments with the Canon SX740 HS point-and-shoot camera, as listed below.
Canon Cameras US Point and Shoot Digital Camera with 3.0″ LCD, Black (2955C001)
- 40x optical zoom with optical image stabilizer and zoom framing assist
- 4K video and 4K time-lapse movie
- 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor
The PowerShot SX740 HS camera is an excellent starter camera, offering numerous features. It delivers an impressive 40x optical zoom and an optical image stabilizer for perfect shots every time.
You can record videos of your favorite destinations in super-high definition (4K 30p) or create beautiful time-lapse videos. I’m also a big fan of the 4K frame cropping feature, which allows you to capture high-quality still images without the need for additional software.
Like any travel camera worth its salt, it has built-in WiFi. You can use the Canon Camera Connect app to transfer images, share them with your jealous friends, and print them.
The Canon SX740 will inspire your creativity with shooting modes like Self-Portrait Mode for selfies, Food Mode for capturing fun food photos, Video Snapshot Mode for creating memorable movies, and Hybrid Auto, which allows you to capture images and video simultaneously.
And if you’re wondering what’s included when you buy one, you’ll receive a wrist strap, a battery pack, and a charger.
Also worth mentioning is the very cool 180-degree tilt-type screen, which can face all the way forward. This means you can easily position yourself at the center of the frame. The Canon also features a “smooth skin effect” that can help enhance your natural features for the perfect Instagram selfies.
10 Best Smartwatches with GPS for Adventure in 2025
Looking for the best smartwatches with GPS for seamless navigation? This comprehensive overview, from understanding…
10 of the Warmest Hoodies for Winter To Keep You Toasty
The best warmest hoodies for winter aren’t just about thickness anymore. Modern designs focus on…
11 Best Gaming Chairs for Back Pain 2025
Are you experiencing back pain after prolonged gaming sessions? Selecting the ideal gaming chair for…
11 Best Line Array Speakers for DJs and Events in 2025
Whether spinning tracks at intimate gatherings or pumping up crowds at outdoor festivals, the right…
12 Best Backpacks for Traveling Asia in 2025
Finding the best backpacks for traveling Asia requires careful consideration of durability, comfort, and smart…
12 Laptops With the Best Speakers for First-Class Sound
Finding laptops with the best speakers shouldn’t feel like searching for a needle in a…
FAQ
Which camera is best for Zoom?
The travel-friendly camera with the best zoom at 125x is the Nikon Coolpix P1000 (Paid link).
The second-best option is the Nikon Coolpix B600 (Paid link), which offers the same 125x zoom functionality.
The third best is the Canon PowerShot SX70 (Paid link) HS with a 65x zoom.
The fourth-best zoom belongs to the Panasonic Lumix FZ80 (Paid link) at 60x.
Which camera is best for tourism?
I believe the Nikon Coolpix P1000 is the best overall camera for tourism. You can read my full review by clicking here.
My decision is based on build quality, zoom functionality, ease of use, value for money, and after-sales service.
If the Nikon is a bit out of your budget, I recommend the mid-priced Canon PowerShot SX70 HS as an alternative camera for documenting your travel adventures. Click here to read my full review.
And if you’re on an even tighter budget, consider the Panasonic Lumix FZ80. Please read my full review here.
What is a Super Zoom camera?
Most of the Bridge cameras you find today can be classified as “Super Zoom” cameras.
Super Zoom cameras have lenses that can be zoomed from wide angles to long telephoto focal lengths.
The lenses of Super Zoom have focal length ranges that start from 20x and can go up to 50x or even higher.
My pick of the Super Zoom cameras is the Nikon Coolpix P1000 (Paid link), which has a fantastic 125x zoom. You can read my full review by clicking here.
What zoom do I need for travel photography?
This is a subjective question and depends on what you will be taking pictures of.
If you are an amateur travel photographer and want to take pictures of the places you visit, an 8x zoom will probably be sufficient. The Sony RX100 VII (Paid link) is a tremendous little camera that most travelers are happy with.
If you are a professional photographer and want to capture clear images from very long distances, consider a camera with a 60x to 125x zoom. The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS (Paid link) is an excellent camera featuring a 65x zoom. And if you want a Super-Zoom camera, the Nikon Coolpix P1000 (Paid link) has a whopping 125x zoom.
What camera should I buy for traveling?
It would be best if you read this article, in which I find the best camera for travel. I have reviewed the top seven cameras suitable for travelers who want to document their adventures and the places they visit.
You should seriously consider the Nikon Coolpix P1000 (Paid link) if you have a big budget. It’s not cheap, but you get a big bang for your buck.
If your budget is lower, you can opt for cameras like the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 (Paid link) or the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS (Paid link).
If you’re looking for the best budget camera for travel, consider the Canon SX740 HS (Paid link).
What is a zoom camera?
If you’re just getting started with photography, you may not fully understand the definition of zoom. Camera zoom makes subjects or objects appear nearer or farther away in your photograph.
When you zoom in, you get a closer look at the subjects or objects in the image without the need to move nearer to them.
Zooming out can capture a broader space in your photograph without requiring you to move farther from the objects or subjects.
Zooming in or out can be achieved using a zoom lens or a camera with a zoom lens attached, and the latter is commonly referred to as a DSLR camera. I will not feature DSLR cameras in this article because they are not as suitable for travel and are usually more expensive.
If you use the camera to document your travel destinations, size and weight will be essential factors. For this reason, the cameras in this article all have built-in zoom lenses and are small enough to carry around.
Why do I need a Zoom camera for travel?
It is helpful to think of the zoom function as a photo-processing software built into your camera. It works by enlarging the pixels in the center of the photo and cropping out the rest. A good zoom function will give the appearance of magnifying the subject in your pictures.
Owning a camera with good zoom quality makes it unnecessary to walk miles to get closer to the subject matter. For example, in many cases, getting close to a mountain or animal in the wild may not be possible, but if your camera is good enough, you can still capture the perfect shot.
Zoom cameras are also popular among travelers who enjoy taking photos of people. Sticking a camera in someone’s face may be very uncomfortable, but if necessary, you can sit in a nearby cafe to get the same portrait photo.
Safety is the final reason to get a quality zoom camera for your trips. Imagine you want to record an active volcano; do you want to get close to the molten lava? With a decent travel camera, you can capture the action while maintaining a safe distance.
Which Zoom camera is best for travel photography?
If you’re short on time and need a quick answer, my pick of the best zoom cameras for travel is the Nikon Coolpix P1000, featuring an incredible 125x zoom.
If you’re on a budget, I recommend the Panasonic Lumix FZ80, which features an outstanding 60x zoom.
Regarding the smallest and lightest camera, you can’t go wrong with the Canon SX740, the smallest and most portable camera. It features a 40x zoom, which is suitable for most travel photography.
If you are traveling to colder countries, you might like to check out my article about the warmest hoodies to keep you toasty warm on your travels.
