How to Choose the Best Backpacking & Hiking Camera? [Full Guide]

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Imagine this: You’ve been longing to reach this mountain’s summit for a long time, and the chance to do it is finally here. You grab your hiking shoes, take your backpack, and climb up the rocky and uneasy pathway. Sweaty and struggling, you are working hard towards your dream until finally making the first step on the top.

Scenic views of the surrounding open up to you, leaving you astonished. You wish you could keep this memory for eternity. How do you do that? Well, this is where the right backpacking camera gear comes in.

 

How do you choose a product that is unique and ideal for you? What are the things to consider when making such a decision? How can a camera suit your adventurous travel lifestyle as a backpacker? What about your wallet? In this ultimate guide with hints, tips, and tricks, you’ll find the answers to all these questions.

 

Action cameras

If you’re a backpacker, you certainly prefer an active travel lifestyle full of adventures and surprises on the way. You travel easily, but not luxuriously. Lying on the beach sipping a cocktail brought to you by the fancy hotel staff – that’s not about you.

When it comes to the best backpacking cameras, your first choice might be an action camera. It’s created to record your experience while you’re in it. It’s compact so you can take it with you anywhere you go.

But despite its small size, it’s very powerful and able to take top-notch pictures and videos. The action camera lets your mind slip and your body move freely. Let’s take a look at several great choices on the market.

 

DJI Osmo Action

This outdoor action camera is one of the best backpacking cameras. Packed with advanced tech features, Osmo Action is the long-awaited sports camera from the drone producer and market leader DJI. What are its specific features, making it stand out from others?

 

• HDR regime – It stands for High Dynamic Range and enriches the video by well-balancing the given light conditions to get the best colors and vibrance in your shots
• Colorful dual display – perfect for taking selfies or capturing crystal-clear high-quality pictures and videos of the surroundings while seeing what you are framing.
• Extremely waterproof – you could dive deep (up to 11 m) with this camera and take stunning under-water shots, even without the protective case.
• RockSteady stabilization – it has great image stabilization, the quality of the content will stay unshaken and smooth to watch.
• 4k/60fps resolution – with such a rate, the video has a great resolution and are smooth to watch
• Removable battery – that also can withstand temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius
• Cool-off system – doesn’t let the camera overheat while in use
• Interactive – you can edit your content on-the-spot and adapt it to your social media

 

GoPro Hero – Black Edition

When looking for the best backpacking camera to help you create excellent content from your travels, take a look for example at the GoPro Hero 8 Black. GoPro has long been one of the best love brands on the market. What are the best features of this small-scale smart camera?

 

• Camera mounts integrated into the camera body – you don’t need to use the frame to attach it to accessories. This is so handy.
• HyperSmooth 2.0 – an upgraded image stabilization that helps pictures and videos stay precise and steady.
• TimeWarp 2.0 regime – speeds up or slows down your video automatically; there’s no need for intervention, a great software feature.
• NightLapse Video – high-quality video timelapse at night to shoot the stars
• LiveBurst regime – it lets you create 90 frames in a row or a short 4K video sequence, which you can use for Instagram
  as the default mode consists of a 15 or 30-second video suitable for social media.
• Waterproof – no need to worry up to 10 m underwater, or if there’s any mud or dust around

 

Osmo Pocket

This camera is so miniature, it’s invisible in hand and will fit right into the pocket of your jacket. It’s one of the most prominent backpacking cameras available. Let’s take a look at what else makes it so unique and desired.

 

 

• Two panoramic regimes – take 180-degree panoramic pictures or create a panoramic view out of 9 picture sequences
• Small touch display – although of tiny size, the touch display serves as a finder, player, and to set or change modes
• 3-axis mechanical stabilizer – in combination with the software, it lets you use slow and fast movement, motion tracking, and automatic tracking of the selected object
• Microphone – despite its tiny size, this camera offers the suppression of noise. You can record your voice for vlogging even for professional purposes.
• DJI MIMO app – available for Android and IOS, this app is a perfect companion for the camera as it lets you watch the captured material on a bigger screen and allows for a simpler setup of the stabilizer

 

Action Cameras Comparison

 

APS-C Cameras

Now here we come to the point where you would like to upgrade the quality of your content with better resolution. In the world of APS-C cameras, two giants seem to dominate the competition, Canon & Nikon. These are the brands that you probably know by their worldwide repetition, making them the first two choices that come to mind.

Other brands offer great options, like Sony and Fujifilm, for example. However, the big battle of APS-C cameras seems to be between the two brands, Canon and Nikon. For that reason, you will explore with us only these two, quite recommended, brands.

Choosing a camera can be an important decision. Most people want to buy a good camera that will last for years. So as you don’t want to invest in future regret, you will need to research.

To make it easy for you (because investing in a camera also means investing in the compatible tools that come with it), we will compare the two brands across three categories, low-budget, mid-range, and pro.

 

Canon vs. Nikon, which one is for you?

 

Entry-Level Cameras

As most young backpackers, your budget might not allow you to buy the fancy stuff. But no worries! Canon and Nikon offer pocket-friendly choices that are great. You won’t have the options of a pro, but who cares about them when all you need is taking great-looking pictures of your journey.

We will cover the two cheapest choices for both brands. The comparison between the two entry-level/low-budget cameras of each brand will determine the winners. Both cameras cost less than 600€.

 

Canon EOS 4000D

Lets’ start first with Canon. Their cheapest model is the Canon EOS 4000D. This camera is a great entry-level choice that will allow you to learn pro photography 101.

 

It features an 18MP sensor, shoots in FHD with a plastic lens mount, and an ordinary 2.7-inch display. It also has a Wi-Fi function to easily transfer your shots across your mobile devices.

The camera can also shoot up to 3 photos per second in high-speed mode. Besides, it has 9 focus points which makes the flexibility of the focus really good in its category.

 

Nikon D3500

Nikon, on the other hand, hasn’t been involved in low-budget cameras for a while. However, one of their newest models, the Nikon D3500, is an available choice.

 

 

The Nikon D3500 features a 24.2MP sensor, point AF system, and 5 frames per second shooting, making the camera a good option for first-timers.

You should also know that this camera has better battery life and a more comfortable grip, both of which are appreciated by travelers. However, the camera is not equipped with WIFI.

 

Nikon D3500 vs. Canon EOS 4000D Comparison

 

The Winner in the Entry-Level Category

Both cameras are great for beginners, and little sets them apart from each other. Canon offers some new tech if you can invest more money in models like Canon EOS 250D, which is also less than 600€ and way better than EOS 4000D.

However, if you don’t want to bust the bank account, you should consider the Nikon D3500, our winner of the low-budget cameras.

 

Mid-Range Cameras

For the backpackers out there who want to step up the game, there are some mid-range choices. If you have a bigger wallet that can handle more spending on a better camera, two models by Canon and Nikon are great for you.

The mid-range choices of Canon and Nikon offer have thinned out in the recent period. However, the two models we will explore are still prominent mid-range choices.

 

Canon 77D

The Canon 77D is a great DSLR camera with touchscreen controls, a user-friendly interface, and a 45-point AF system. However, if your hopes include having 4k videos, this camera will not fulfill them. Also, the camera’s optical viewfinder offers only 95% coverage, and its finish a little bit plasticky.

 

 

Nikon D5600

Nikon D5600 shares the same features and downsides as the previous camera, including a similar 39-point AF system. However, it has a good, comfortable grip and the quality of the images it takes is great.

 

 

Canon 77D vs. Nikon D5600 Comparison

 

The Winner in the Mid-Range Category

Again, the cameras are very similar to each other, but Canon 77D seems to be slightly better. Therefore, you should probably consider the Canon 77D if you’re interested in buying a mid-range camera.

 

Advanced Cameras

Backpackers who are also professional shooters and are willing to spend more money to enhance their visual content need a pro camera. You will double your spending with these cameras, but the quality will also double.

 

Canon 5D Mark IV

5D Mark IV is one of the greatest choices for people who like the Canon system. This camera features a 30.4MP sensor, 7fps shooting, and you can record 4K videos with it. The screen of this camera is touch-sensitive, but if you want one that tilts, this one doesn’t.

 

 

Nikon D850

The Nikon D850 is one of the best DSLRs in the market even after three years since its first release. This camera features a 45.7MP sensor (which is one of the best there are, although the files are a little bit hard to manage), 4K video recording, 9fps burst shooting, and connectivity to Snapbridge.

Also, the camera features a first-rate optical viewfinder and a tilting touch-sensitive screen.

 

 

Canon 5D Mark IV vs. Nikon D850 Comparison

 

The winner in the Advanced Category

Both the above two cameras are guaranteed to satisfy you as a pro, but it’s obvious that the Nikon D850 has slightly better features which make it the best choice.

 

Why You Should Invest in Lenses More Than Cameras

Cameras are more consumables than investments. Lenses on the other hand are great investments. Cameras usually have a lifespan that is determined by usage and age. The more you use a camera the sooner you need to replace it. Even if you don’t use the camera and leave it sealed, with time its quality will degrade.

 

 

However, lenses can last for a lifetime if you take care of them properly. The only thing to consider is compatibility.

In conclusion, like a backpacker who wants to be a photographer, you should invest more in quality lenses. Generally, camera bodies are interchangeable. The major differences are in sensor resolution, workflow, and ergonomics. But the best cameras cannot make up for poor quality lenses (glass).

 

360-degree cameras

Travel sometimes takes you to some fascinating landscapes and cities. The best way to capture the charm of some of these great places is by showing the viewer in your perspective.

In those great landscapes, your best choice is a 360-degree camera. Thanks to the availability of VR gadgets to the public, these cameras have been introduced lately to the market.

We will cover the smallest and most affordable three cameras in the market, the cameras that are most suitable for you as a backpacker.

 

HumanEyes Vuze XR

Thanks to the pop-out lenses, this camera can record both 360-degree and 3D VR videos, making the recordings more interactive. Thanks to the solidity of its design, this camera is a great outdoors choice. It will allow you to capture the full range of your travel experience. Let’s discover what else this camera has to offer.

 

 

• 5.7K resolution – allows taking immersive images that look very detailed.
• 18 MP quality for still images – The quality of still images can compete with the top-notch cameras
• 60 minutes battery life – the battery life is relatively short, but it should be enough for taking great pictures of your excursions.
• Robust material – the best thing about this camera is its robust design that is coupled with the other features

 

Insta360 One X

There are two aspects of producing great video content, capturing the action and editing. Insta360 One X offers that. The Insta360 One X has the best fisheye lenses in the market and it comes with a useful app that allows you to do some special effects. This camera is the one you’re seeking if you’re a professional vlogger.

 

 

• Image stabilization – allows you to capture smooth videos that look natural.
• 5760 x 2880 at 30fps quality – capturing immersive images is all about great quality, such as the case with this camera
• Battery life is 60 minutes – the battery life is sufficient to capture the best moments of your every trip.
• Still, the image resolution is 18 MP – The quality of the still images is fantastic compared to many other options.

 

GoPro Max

If you like capturing high-quality action sequences in 360-degree in relatively wet places, this is the camera for you. The GoPro Max is a waterproof camera that takes high-quality 3D and 2D footage.

 

 

 

• Accompanied by OverCapture software, this camera allows for flexibility. Generally, the GoPro Max takes all the best features of Hero 8 Black and adds 360-degree to them.
• Waterproof 5m – This makes this camera a great option for people who enjoy excursions that involve water.
• 5.6K spherical video & Up to 30fps – This allows you to capture immersive footage of your top backpacking moments in high-quality.
• 1440p 2D video up to 60fps – 2D footage of this camera is as good as it can be in this line of cameras.
• Stills resolution is 16.6MP – The stills resolution is a little bit lower in this camera, but that doesn’t affect the quality
• Battery life, 108 minutes (1440p) & 78 minutes (5.6K) – The battery life of this camera is one of the longest ones that you can get on the market.

 

360° Cameras Comparison

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

Smartphone Cameras Comparison

 

 

How to Keep Your Camera Safe

Backpacking can be harsh on your gadgets. If you’re not careful enough, you might damage your camera, especially when you travel to places where water is the dominant element.

Extreme elements can be harmful to your camera. The most problematic ones are water and cold weather.

Buy a rain cap for the camera if your travel somewhere wet

If you like taking excursions to wet places like beaches and lakes, you have to have some equipment to protect your precious gadget. They are very affordable, 30€ will get you a great one.

 

 

Keep your camera and battery always warm

Extreme cold places can affect your battery, making your camera obsolete. To avoid that, there are two methods.
The first method is to keep one or two batteries hidden in your pocket, where it’s warm. You will use the batteries interchangeably, waiting for them to warm up before you use them.

 

 

The second tip is to use hand-warmers, which are small packets with reacting chemicals that produce heat over a long period. You use the hand-warmers inside a bag where you put the batteries. By contrast, it’s recommended to keep your camera cold for winter photography, so don’t put the camera and the batteries in the same place.

 

Wear your camera in a practical way

If it’s your first time getting a camera, you might be thinking that the best way to carry it is by the strap that comes with it. In fact, that’s not something that pros recommend. The straps tend to be bad-quality and annoying.

They cannot endure a lot of stress, and wearing one might be agitating to the skin on your neck and shoulders. Remember that backpacking is all about endurance sometimes, especially when you’re a fan of hiking.

 

Buy adapter for backpacks

A great solution for all of your backpackers is an adapter for backpacks. The adapter will fit right on the strap of your backpack and it will make carrying the camera a lot easier. The adapters are designed to be robust and stable. After all, cameras are very precious, so they require safety measures. The adapter for backpacks will take those safety measures for you.

 

 

Wear it practically and safely

Perhaps the safest way to carry a camera is in a bag, but it won’t be easily accessible when you want to take pictures, which is something crucial in places where there’s a lot of action worthy of documenting.

Another safer way, and apparently more practical than a strap, is camera holsters. You can buy a camera holster that has a belt that fits on your waist. Walking with the camera that way is a lot more comfortable. Some holsters have advanced locking systems that make the camera easily accessible when you want to reach for it, and completely safe when you don’t need it.

 

Have the Righ Backpack

There is a big variety of backpacks nowadays on the Market. The trendy ones now are backpacks with wheels. They are quite practical as you can roll them when you are at the airport for example.

Backpacks are usually heavy and packed with luggage and gear. So rolling them along the way whenever you have the chance is a great option, also for many other travelers.

 

Final Thoughts about the Best Backpacking Camera

Now you have all the knowledge and tips that will help you take those great pictures that you’ve always wanted to capture. No matter if it is for you or a gift for a frequent traveler friend, be as picky as you can be when you choose a camera (or phone) because you will pay for it, and you want it to be the most suitable thing for you.

Once you have bought your camera, think about investing in a good tripod. Flexible tripods are now more famous for vlogging and capturing cinematic scenes like a timelapse or a slow-motion action. They are also easy to carry and not that heavy.

Happy Vlogging!