12 Best Mirrorless Cameras for Travel in 2023

Today we look at the best mirrorless camera for travel on the market. Travel is a great source of inspiration for any photographer. But with so many sights and scenes, you want to create images that stand out. Whether a roving reporter or a sun-seeker, you need the best camera for the job.

Mirrorless cameras make a perfect travel companion. They are more compact and easier to transport than traditional DSLR cameras. They are packed full of features. And they will help you get creative when you are traveling.

But which is the best mirrorless camera for travel? There are many excellent options available. But if you want to get the best of the best without worrying about the price, we recommend the Canon R5. It has amazing resolution and autofocus abilities. And its compact size makes it perfect for travel photographers.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Canon EOS M50 Mark II

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Olympus Pen E-PL10

The Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel

There’s a lot of information about mirrorless cameras out there. So it can be confusing. And when it comes to finding a camera for travel, much of the information is irrelevant.

We have compiled a list to help you find the best mirrorless camera for travel. When you book your next trip, you will be fully equipped and ready to shoot. Use the links below to jump to the most relevant section for you!

Best Mirrorless Travel Camera For Beginners
Best Mirrorless Travel Camera For Enthusiasts
Best Mirrorless Travel Camera For Professionals

12 Best Mirrorless Travel Cameras For Beginners

Our Top Choice

Canon EOS M50 Mark II

Strong sensor resolution
4K and Full HD video options
Time-lapse recording
External mic port
Webcam functionality

Best All-Around Camera

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Affordable
Very beginner-friendly
Excellent image quality
Built-in image stabilization for video and low light
Endless list of compatible lenses
Excellent 4K video features

Best Value

Olympus Pen E-PL10

Decent 4K video
Great in-body image stabilization
Good low-light picture quality
Stylish and compact body
Silent shutter mode

Most Compact

Panasonic Lumix GX85 (GX80)

Customizable face-detection autofocus
Intelligent 5-axis image stabilization uses lens data for super-sharp images
Programmed focus tracking via touchscreen
Customizable on-screen buttons
Excellent 4K video quality

1. Canon M50 Mark II

Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF-M
Megapixels	Megapixels 24 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 143
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

See All Specs

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a mirrorless travel camera with a lot to offer a beginner. It has a compact camera body, making it an excellent portable camera. And the battery life will not let you down.

You will also not be disappointed with the images produced by the 24.1 MP sensor. And the eye detection autofocus will be a benefit to your travel photography.

And it’s not just the stills quality. The Canon EOS M50 was also built with videographers in mind too. You get 4K video a 24 fps (frames per second) and good quality slow motion at 120 fps. And the autofocus system works with video capture too.

The only problem with the video is that it is cropped. This is something you need to keep in mind when framing your shots. But the quality is still good enough for social media content.

If you are setting off on your first big expedition, then the EOS M50 could be the best mirrorless camera for you.

2. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Micro Four Thirds
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Micro 4/3
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 121
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 6,400
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 15 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

See All Specs

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is compact and performs well. It’s not a world-beater, but it does not do much wrong. It’s a perfect mirrorless camera to put in your travel pack.

Micro Four Thirds cameras are often misunderstood. They have a smaller sensor, so the resolution is lower than many competitors. But this Olympus still packs a punch when it comes to image quality.

The autofocus performance is basic. But you will not find a burst much quicker than 15 fps. Certainly not in this price range. And the 4K video is great for capturing moments from your adventures.

It’s also easy to share travel photography with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. This is great for sending images to others when you are on the travelers’ trail.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a quality camera. It’s compact and affordable. And it’s one of the best mirrorless cameras for travel available right now.

3. Olympus PEN E-PL10

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Micro Four Thirds
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Micro 4/3
Megapixels	Megapixels 16 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 121
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 14 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type None
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

See All Specs

The Olympus Pen E-PL10 is a beautiful mirrorless camera. It has a great build quality and a variety of features. This makes it a great mirrorless camera for travel if you are a beginner.

The Micro Four Thirds sensor gives you 16 MP. This is enough to get some superb shots on your travels. And the autofocus system is great for a camera in this price range.

The Olympus Pen E-PL10 is an extremely compact camera. It can fit in many places in your backpack. It could even fit in your pocket if you’re wearing a jacket!

This is the best-looking camera on this list. The design is based on the old 35mm film Olympus PEN point-and-shoot cameras.

4. Panasonic Lumix GX85

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Micro Four Thirds
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Micro 4/3
Megapixels	Megapixels 16 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 49
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 8 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

See All Specs

The Panasonic Lumix GX85 has been around for a while. But it is still a great mirrorless travel camera option.

Do not be alarmed by the 16 MP resolution. The Micro Four Thirds sensor still gives you excellent image quality. And the MFT format can provide twice the focal length of a full frame camera.

The smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor also makes for a more compact camera body. That is one of the advantages of selecting the Lumix GX85 as your travel camera. It’s easy to carry and still gives you brilliant results.

The continuous shooting mode and 4K video are both solid. And they provide great scope for creativity at home or abroad. And Panasonic has a great selection of compact interchangeable lenses. They are perfect for travel photography.

Panasonic offers excellent value for money. It is not record-breaking, but it’s still one of the best mirrorless cameras for a beginner on the road.

Best Mirrorless Travel Camera For Enthusiasts

Our Top Choice

Fujifilm X-S10

Stunning image quality
Good ergonomics
5-axis in-body stabilization
30 fps with crop or 20 fps without
4K Ultra HD with good dynamic range
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity

Best for Compact Size

Sony a7C

Tiny, portable full frame body
Excellent autofocus system
Good battery life
Weatherproof magnesium alloy body
Option of bundling a lightweight 28-60 mm zoom lens kit

Best Burst Mode

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

50 MP High Res Shot mode
30 fps continuous shooting speed
Up to 6.5 stops of in-body stabilization with certain lenses
Excellent weather sealing
Articulating screen for angled shots
Excellent 4K Ultra HD and DCI video

Best Value

Nikon Z50

A more affordable mirrorless option
Nice to handle and use
Relatively lightweight and not too bulky
Solid 4K video performance

1. Fujifilm X-S10

Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Fujifilm X
Megapixels	Megapixels 26 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 425
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 12,800
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 20 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

See All Specs

The Fujifilm X-S10 is the ultimate all-around camera in the enthusiast category.

The 26.1 MP image resolution is impressive enough. But the standout feature of the X-S10? It’s the five-axis in-body image stabilization system. It upholds the image quality, so there’s no fear of blur or distortion. It saves you from having to pack a tripod for your trip.

The 4K video is solid but not spectacular. At the same time, the burst mode gives you 20 fps of continuous shooting. It gives you the freedom to get creative and capture the uncatchable.

Fuji’s film simulations can also give your travel images a different feel. It’s a great way to get your travel photography to stand out on social media.

2. Sony a7C

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Sony FE
Megapixels	Megapixels 24.2 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 693
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 51,200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

See All Specs

The Sony a7C is one of the most compact and easy-to-carry mirrorless cameras. And despite its small size, it still packs a punch.

The image quality is excellent. And the standard stills will not disappoint you. But it’s the extra features that make this camera stand out.

The autofocus has a 693-phase detection system. It works quickly to get crisp and clear shots. And there’s a five-axis in-body stabilization system to keep this steady. These are excellent features for when you are on the move and without a tripod.

The burst gives you 10 fps of continuous shooting. And the video resolution is 4K at 30 fps. It’s perfect for footage and travel vlogs. The Sony a7C also has a good battery life, giving you 750 shots on one charge.

The Sony a7C is expensive. And it lacks some more advanced features you might expect from a camera in this price bracket. But it is powerful for its size. It’s one of the best mirrorless cameras for travel.

3. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Micro Four Thirds
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Micro 4/3
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 121
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 6,400
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 30 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

See All Specs

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is another Micro Four Thirds camera. It has a smaller sensor and body size. This makes it a natural choice for photographers hitting the open road.

But it’s not just the size that makes this one of the best mirrorless travel cameras. The image quality is excellent. And it’s packed full of features that will help along the road.

The 121-point autofocus system is fast and reliable. And the in-body five-axis in-body image stabilization ensures sharpness and clarity. You can use this camera with confidence in all environments.

But the real point of difference is the burst mode. The standard shooting speed is 10 fps if you use the mechanical shutter. But if you switch to Pro Capture mode, you get a staggering 30 fps of continuous shooting. That’s with 14-shot pre-buffering too.

This crop sensor camera will not take up much room in your pack. And it’s powerful and versatile. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is one of the best travel cameras for enthusiasts.

4. Nikon Z50

Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Nikon Z
Megapixels	Megapixels 21 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 209
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 51,200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 11 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

See All Specs

The Nikon Z50 is not mind-blowing. At least not on paper. But this mirrorless camera is an excellent travel companion when you’re on the road.

It does not have the firepower of its sisters, the Z6 and Z7. But those machines have full frame sensors. The Z50 has a smaller APS-C crop sensor. Not quite as powerful, but it means the body is more compact.

The still image capture is an excellent standard. The resolution is not the highest on the list. But the autofocus and in-body image stabilization features work well. You will not have a problem with your travel photography stills.

But the Nikon Z50 is geared towards videographers and vloggers. The 4K video at 30 fps is excellent. And the movable touchscreen is perfect for selfies and filming yourself. The battery is pretty reliable too.

Nikon made the Z50 for life on the move. That makes it one of the best cameras for travel photography.

Best Mirrorless Travel Camera For Professionals

Our Top Choice

Canon EOS R5

Large 45 MP sensor
High frame rate of 20 fps
In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
Body, face, eye, and animal tracking
8K/30p Ultra HD video

Great Value

Nikon Z7 II

High-resolution image sensor
Rapid 1/8000 s shutter speed
Excellent AF system
Dual memory card slots
Great 4K video at 60 fps

Highest Resolution

Sony a7R IV

Super high-resolution sensor
Stunningly sharp image quality
Excellent face and eye detection AF
Large, high-resolution EVF
Sharp 4K Ultra HD video
Weather sealing to protect from elements

Best Panasonic Choice

Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R

Powerful 47 MP image sensor
Fantastic AF performance in low light
5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization
4K video at 60 fps
No time limit with video recording

1. Canon EOS R5

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon RF
Megapixels	Megapixels 45 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1,053
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 51,200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 20 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

See All Specs

The modern travel photographer needs something that can cover all the bases. They need something they can rely on when raising a dust cloud in the outback. They cannot swap cameras at the drop of a hat. This is why the Canon EOS R5 is top of the professional list.

The full frame sensor has a brilliant 45 MP resolution. And you also get excellent autofocus and image stabilization systems with this mirrorless camera.

You have the option of mechanical or electronic shutters for continuous shooting. The former gives you 12 fps, while the latter has an impressive 20 fps. You ensure travel photography stills are of the highest order.

But video is the EOS R5‘s real strength. It gives you 8K video resolution. That’s more than enough for a YouTube travel blog. It’s close to cinema-quality footage.

The Canon EOS R5 sets a high standard and has versatile features. This makes it the best mirrorless travel camera for professional photographers. This is the camera you need if you are a roving reporter or a traveler by trade.

2. Nikon Z7 II

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Nikon Z
Megapixels	Megapixels 45.75 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 439
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

See All Specs

The Z7 is the best mirrorless camera from Nikon to date. The all-around specs and features are fantastic. And they make it an excellent option for professional travel photography too.

The 45.7 MP full frame CMOS sensor gives you stunning results. And the autofocus is a 493-point hybrid system. It works fast to provide excellent sharpness. The system includes eye detection for human and animal subjects.

The photo quality is good enough for any travel publication, whether online or in print. But the Nikon Z7 also gives you versatile video capture. You can shoot in 4K Ultra at 60, 30, 25, or 24 fps. And you can shoot in vivid slow motion at 120 fps in full HD.

The Z series lens mount does give you options when backing lenses for your trip. The Z-mount lenses aren’t as many as the F-mount series. But Nikon is adding new ones to the list.

The modern wanderer needs a camera that can capture stills and video. The Nikon doesn’t quite match the Canon EOS R5. But it is one of the best mirrorless cameras for travel photography.

3. Sony a7R IV

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Sony FE
Megapixels	Megapixels 61.2 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 425
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 32,000
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

See All Specs

The Sony a7R IV is at the top of the mirrorless camera game. There appear to be only a few features that make it suitable for travel photography. But as one of the best mirrorless cameras out there, it is more than capable.

The full frame sensor has an image resolution of a staggering 61 MP. You can travel as far as you like, but you will not find another camera with that horsepower. You certainly will not have anything like that with DSLR cameras.

Travelers interested in wildlife photography will like the a7R’s silent shooting capability. You can get those close-up animal shots without scaring the beast away. It’s also a bonus in more intimate situations. You can shoot in a quiet cafe or on a train without disturbing anyone.

The autofocus is incredible too. It has a 567-point phase-detection system, which can detect and track eyes. It works with both humans and animals. And the five-axis in-body stabilization system means you can work without a tripod.

The battery life on this mirrorless camera is not great. But you can change to APS-C mode and shoot at 26 MP to reduce battery usage.

The Sony a7R IV was not designed as a travel camera. But the quality is so good there’s no reason not to take it on your next expedition. It’s one of the best mirrorless cameras, no matter what you shoot.

4. Panasonic Lumix S1R

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Leica L
Megapixels	Megapixels 47.3 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 225
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 9 fps
Viewfinder Type	Viewfinder Type Electronic
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

See All Specs

The Panasonic Lumix S1R may not be a traveler photographer’s first choice. But it has solid build quality and performance. That makes this mirrorless camera suitable for life on the open road.

The image quality is the place to start. It has a sensor resolution of 47.3 MP. So no travel photographer in the world will be disappointed with the results. You also have great autofocus and image stabilization systems to keep things in order.

Ad if that was not enough, then there’s the high-resolution mode. With the flick of a switch, you get eight images at 187 MP. This mode is designed to capture landscapes in stunning detail. Breath-taking landscapes can often appear flat when photographed. But not with the Lumix S1R.

The body design is compact and rugged. The S1R is dust-, splash-, and freeze-resistant, making it a durable mirrorless camera. No matter which corner of the globe you travel to, you know this Lumix can cope.

One downside is the weight. Panasonic has packed a lot into this camera, and you can feel it in your hand. But the quality is so good you might be willing to forgive them. It’s built to last and is one of the best mirrorless cameras for travel.

Conclusion

If you are setting sail and heading out on a new adventure, you need a camera that is up to the job. Many cameras are suitable for travel photography. But which is the best camera for travel?

Mirrorless cameras are a natural fit for travel photography. They are smaller and more compact. And now they have features perfect for capturing an expedition in parts unknown.

Before you set off, you must consider your budget and skill level. Consider what is best for you as a travel photographer. Our list has something for everyone so that you can find the best mirrorless camera for travel. If money is no question for you, we recommend the Canon R5.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Canon EOS M50 Mark II

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Olympus Pen E-PL10