Are you an adventure traveler? You will need the best camera for hiking and backpacking. Nowadays, these cameras are affordable for everyone. From mirrorless and compact to waterproof cameras, there are numerous options for your adventure.
Fortunately, there are endless opportunities in terms of sizes and types of cameras. Your choice may depend on the type of trip, photography style, and scenery you want to shoot. Finding the best camera from the market can’t be an easy task.
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How to Choose the Best Camera for Hiking and backpacking in 2021
From lightweight and point-and-shoots mirrorless cameras, you can capture impressive images. If you want to choose the best camera, here are some essential factors to consider:
Price of Camera
You can buy the Best Camera for Hiking and backpacking at different prices. These are available in different prices, such as 100 dollars to 1000 dollars. Try to buy an affordable camera because the risk of loss or damage is unavoidable. Feel free to buy an affordable camera between USD 400 and 1000.
Weight
If you are backpacking or hiking, you have to carry essential gear with you. Remember, weight is an important consideration. Make sure to purchase a large mirrorless camera or a bulky DSLR to carry it with you.
Waterproofing
It is an essential feature in the best camera for backpacking and hiking. Some cameras may not have weather seal or waterproof features. Make sure to purchase a camera with a rubber seal to protect it from dust and water.
Water in the camera may be a bad thing and maybe the reason for corrosion. It is possible to get a waterproof camera to avoid corrosion. For backpacking and hiking, you have to consider weather conditions. Make sure to buy a camera with weatherproofing features.
Several options are available in the market; therefore, you can find an affordable camera. Here is a list of top 10 best cameras for hiking and backpacking.
Top 10 Best Camera for Hiking and Backpacking in 2021 Reviews
| Product | Best Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1. GoPro Black HERO6 Waterproof Digital Camera | Waterproof, touchscreen and 4K HD video | 4.8 |
| 2. Dragon Touch Action 4L Camera 3 Underwater 16MP Vision | Underwater waterproof action camera with two batteries | 4.8 |
| 3. AKASO Elite V50 4K60fps WiFi Action Touch Screen Camera | Waterproof camera, action camera with adjustable view | 4.8 |
| 4. Sony a6000 Alpha Mirrorless Digital Camera SLR 24.3 MP | 30-inch LCD, and Mirrorless digital camera | 4.7 |
| 5. Canon PowerShot Digital GP X Camera | Built-in Wi-Fi, LCD touch panel and optical zoom | 4.6 |
| 6. Canon G7 X PowerShot Digital Camera | Wi-Fi enabled, Compact and CMOS sensor | 4.6 |
| 7. Canon PowerShot 12.1 MP G16 CMOS Camera with Optical Zoom | Optical zoom, CMOS digital camera and video Wi-Fi | 4.6 |
| 8. Sony a6300 Alpha Mirrorless Digital Camera | Alpha mirrorless camera, Zoom lens | 4.5 |
| 9. Nikon D5300 Digital 24.2 MP CMOS SLR Camera | Auto Focus-S, CMOS SLR digital camera and auto Focus-S | 4.5 |
| 10. Fujifilm X-T2 Digital Mirrorless Camera with F2.8-4.0 R, 18 – 55 mm | Mirrorless digital camera, OIS lens and LCD monitor | 4.5 |
1. GoPro Black HERO6 Waterproof Digital Camera
GoPro Black Hero6 is the Best Camera for Hiking and backpacking. It can transform your adventures into instant stories on your smartphone. With GP1 chip, you can get the advantage of video stabilization and fantastic performance.
It allows you to share your life events live without any trouble. You will get quick mobile apps for Android and iOS. Make sure to connect it with GoPro app for a QuikStory. Remember, your region and phone must support 5GHz. Moreover, 2.4 GHz is also available.
The offload speed may vary based on the climate conditions. Offloading media from this camera may not use cellular data. To add GPS data, you will need a Quick app. It offers a waterproof and durable design. It can capture your elevation gain, speed, and GPS path.
Pros
- Automatically send footage to phone
- Delivers 2x performance with4k60 x 1080p video
- Feature touch zoom and updated UIs
- Advanced video stabilization
- Fast Wi-Fi
Cons
- Costly than Hero5
- Voice controls are unreliable
2. Dragon Touch Action 4L Camera 3 Underwater 16MP Vision
Dragon touch features a remote control, waterproof, loop recording, and sound recording capabilities. It comes with two batteries to record for almost 90 minutes. Make sure to format the card in the camera before using it.
It has a wireless remote control wristband to record videos and frame shots. These things are convenient and easy with Dragon touch waterproof camera. Feel free to mount this camera on a selfie stick, helmet, etc. Remember, its remote is not waterproof.
With this multi-function camera, you can turn on image rotation and driving mode. Feel free to use this camera as one dash cam and turn on loop recording to delete old videos. It features slow-motion and time-lapse functions. The 1X – 4X zoom is available for photo taking and video recording.
You will get a built-in Wi-Fi connection for your convenience. Download an XDV app on your tablet or phone and press the “UP” button for almost 3 seconds. Review the videos or images through iOS or Android devices.
Pros
- 4K action camera and 4X Zoom
- Wireless remote control for wrist
- Wi-Fi action camera
- 100 FT waterproof camera with amazing accessories
- Versatile and compact camera
Cons
- Remote is not waterproof
- Can be expensive
3. AKASO Elite V50 4K60fps WiFi Action Touch Screen Camera
AKASO V50 is an action camera with 20MP, touchscreen, advanced electronic for image stabilization, and voice control. With this action camera, you can capture the highest resolution at 60 frames per second. It allows you to record fast-moving objects or action in crisp and clear quality.
It features a 2-inch touch screen and IPS display. The responsive touch screen allows you to control the powerful action of this camera. Feel free to control this camera with voice commands, such as action photos and action start video.
With integrated EIS (electronic image stabilization), it can deliver smooth and steady videos. Image stabilization can be disabled if you choose 60FPS 4K, 1080P 120FPS, 2.7K 60FPS, and 720P video resolution. Feel free to wear the waterproof casing before diving up to 131ft/40m to discover the underwater world.
It comes with wireless remote control. You can put this remote on your wrist and get ultra-control for skiing, biking, hiking, and bungee. The integrated Wi-Fi offers a secure connection between the camera and your phone. Feel free to play, share, and download videos.
Pros
- Upgraded series with high-quality footages
- Voice control for hands-free operation
- Amazing image stabilization
- Adjust view angle of the camera
- Waterproof camera for almost 131ft
- Great to capture surfing, swimming, snorkeling, and diving
Cons
- Navigation settings are difficult
4. Sony a6000 Alpha Mirrorless Digital Camera SLR 24.3 MP
Sony mirrorless ILCE6000L is one of the best DSLR cameras. It features 16 mm to 50 mm lens. You can test the limit of creativity with mirrorless premium DSLR. With this camera, you can take several artistic shots and capture crucial moments.
This camera can shoot almost 11 photos in a second. You will find it easy and compact to use. With the help of quick-access dials, you can change its settings. It features APS-C image sensor similar to as several DSLRs. The E-mount and interchangeable lenses system makes it versatile.
You can capture life in high resolution with a 24MP sensor. It delivers gorgeous enlargements and incredible details with 24.3 megapixel Exmore APS CMOS HD image sensor. With this camera, you can capture better images via BIONZ X processing.
Pros
- Terrific quality of pictures
- Excellent ISO performance from an APS-C 24MP sensor
- Dynamic range
- Blazing hybrid AF
- Compact kit lenses
- Low shutter lag
Cons
- LCD can be touchscreen
- Limited macro area
5. Canon PowerShot Digital GP X Camera
The Powershot Canon G9X produces stunning videos and fantastic image quality. It can capture inspiring images with color and detail. You can carry it in your pocket, bag, or hand. Feel free to accompany this camera anywhere. The camera features a 20.2 megapixel for inspiring images.
You can capture movement in full HD stunning video or frozen in increments with almost 6.0 fps consistent shooting. With an easy control ring, you can make quick adjustments. This camera features a high-sensitivity CMOS sensor. It enables you to capture bright areas and greater light range.
The G9 X PowerShot camera features a proprietary processor of a canon. With the DIGIC 6 image processor, it can take video and still image. Better sensitivity of light offers high resolution with limited noise. You can shoot comfortably in dark conditions. You will find it the Best Camera for Hiking and backpacking.
This camera is equipped with innovative IS intelligence. It allows you to capture steady and clear images. The system can evaluate the movement of the camera. You can focus on capturing different shots and framing. For video shooting, feel free to choose between Powered IS, Dynamic IS, Active Tripod IS modes, and Macro IS.
Pros
- 10-inch high-sensitivity powerful camera
- Capture 1080p stunning HD video for convenient playback and lifelike images
- Consistent shooting speeds of almost 6.0 fps to capture dynamic movements of quick objects
- Better JPEG image quality
- Fast lens at a wider angle
- Amazing hue accuracy
- Great macro mode
- Quick autofocus, start, cycle times and shutter lag
- Quick 8 fps burst speed with amazing buffer depths
Cons
- Display may be challenging in bright light
- Limited physical controls
6. Canon G7 X PowerShot Digital Camera
G7 X is a compact, well-equipped camera to produce fantastic images. It is an excellent backup camera in the G-series of the canon. For enthusiast photographers, it has several unique features. The new lens on G7 X PowerShot is equipped with a large camera sensor.
It features a bright value of aperture f/1.8 W and f/2.8 T, 9-blade iris diaphragm, and lens equipped with IS. You can get the advantage of image processing. A high ratio for signal-to-noise delivers minimum distortion and noise with a magnificent range.
You will find it the Best Camera for Hiking and backpacking. Photography enthusiasts will be happy with the image processing of this camera. It can record full HD, incredible videos. This camera is available in different shooting modes. Access these modes through a control ring.
A control ring allows for different functions, such as ISO, speed, aperture, focus, and flash. The G7 X PowerShot camera is a high-performance device. With the Canon HS system, you can take clear and bright photos. You can take low-light beautiful shots with limited noise.
Pros
- Great quality of the photo
- Wi-Fi
- Zoom lens and wide aperture
- Image processor Canon DIGIC 6
- Capture different angles and selfies
Cons
- Lack of some advanced features
- May not capture 4K video
7. Canon PowerShot 12.1 MP G16 CMOS Camera with Optical Zoom
Canon PowerShot is the best Camera for Hiking and backpacking. With creative expression and performance, a G16 camera is a portable unit. The new processor DIGIC offers better-autofocusing speed and fps (frames per second) shooting.
Integrated Wi-Fi offers powerful capabilities and easy set-up. You can upload videos and stills to Twitter, Facebook, Flicker, and YouTube. It features a DIGIC 6 image processor and CMOS sensor. They create an HS Canon system to improve resolution.
Consistent shooting with the maximum resolution is easy to boost to EOS-caliper speed. Remember, high-speed AF can put images in focus. It allows you to freeze an ideal shoot. With its intelligent IS counteracts shake, you can take clear shots in different situations.
You can shoot HDR photos without any tripod and add new finishing dynamic effects. Feel free to capture breathtaking photos of the nighttime sky. It offers numerous pro-like advantages, including Multi aspect RAW. With this camera, you can control the editing process. This camera is compatible with different EOS system accessories and Speedlite flashes.
Pros
- Vastly improved AF speed
- Increase consistent frames per second
- Ergonomic and solid build
- Comfortable feel
- Optical zoom lens f/1.8 to 8.2
- Advanced features for photography, such as RAW capture and PASM dial
- ISO dedicated button
Cons
- Large design makes it difficult to carry
- Lack of remote shooting capabilities
8. Sony a6300 Alpha Mirrorless Digital Camera
Sony a6300 is an interchangeable-lens, mirrorless camera. It features great autofocus and fast autofocus along with APS-C sensor 4, 24.2 MP. You can get the advantage of 4K high-resolution video recordings. This camera has the fastest autofocus and the best AF points.
High-speed, consistent shooting with AE/AF tracking will be easy. It can clearly capture definitive points of action at high speed, such as 11 fps. You can shoot consistently with auto exposure and autofocus tracking.
With this 4D unrivaled focus system, you can get quick AF (autofocus) acquisition time. It allows you to shoot mages to almost 11 fps with consistent exposure tracking and autofocus. Moreover, a6300 allows you to get the advantage of hybrid AF in both 4K and HD.
It helps you to capture definitive action points at high speed, such as 11 fps. You can manage consistent shooting with auto-exposure and autofocus tracking. Users can experience all the benefits of one electronic viewfinder. AE/AF tracking performance is adaptable, nimble, and fast with consistent shooting options.
Pros
- Quick autofocus
- Interchangeable-lens camera
- 4D focus with the fastest autofocus and maximum AF points
- Capture 4K video
- Great JPEG quality
- Great imaging innovation
- Full HD shooting 120fps and 14-bit output raw
Cons
- Lack of dedicated headphone jack
- Underpowered LCD
9. Nikon D5300 Digital 24.2 MP CMOS SLR Camera
Nikon D5300 can be the best camera for hiking and backpacking. The dazzling quality of images meets connectivity with integrated Wi-Fi. You can get the advantage of remote camera control, photo sharing, tracking adventure, and integrated GPS with mapping. It allows you to take lifelike photographs.
You can share and capture lifelike, vibrant images. With D5300, you will get fantastic image quality. It features an ergonomic and compact design. Each photograph may be rich and true for life as compared to other photos. With easy HD video, you can get a cinematic look, clarity, and sharpness.
The richness, clarity, and sharpness of colors are astounding. You can get advantage of the innovative design. It is an ideal choice to capture lifelike images. It features an exceptional NIKKOR lens, sharpness, and marvels of clarity.
With integrated GPS and Wi-Fi, Nikon Digital can be connected with your tablet or smartphone. You can import your favorite images and browse photos on the memory card. No doubt, this camera is perfect for self-portraits and group shots.
Pros
- CMOS 24MP DX-format without optical low-pass filter
- 5 frames per second consistent shooting
- Integrated Wi-Fi for remote camera control and sharing and GPS
- 39-point AF system with 3D matrix and 3D tracking metering II
Cons
- Glossy LCD may be prone to reflections and glare
- Lack of headphone jack to monitor sound levels for video recording
10. Fujifilm X-T2 Digital Mirrorless Camera with F2.8-4.0 R, 18 – 55 mm
X-T2 is a lightweight and compact camera with a robust body. It can deliver everything to satisfy your photography needs. No doubt, it is the best Camera for Hiking and backpacking. A high-definition, large EVF, high-speed AF, convenient dials, and interchangeable high-performance lenses make it an ideal choice.
Remember, film simulation modes receive the legacy of special Fujifilm colors, outstanding movie recording, and unparalleled image quality. The X-T2 features a CMOS III 24.3MP APS-C sensor for the amazing quality of the image.
Its random array of pixels efficiently decreases false and moire colors without a low-pass, optical filter. Feel free to combine with the sensor and an XF lens to deliver images for greater pixels. It comes with outstanding features, such as high-precision tracking, outstanding reading speed, superb video recording, and a fantastic refresh rate.
In the film simulation mode, you can notice the color philosophy of Fujifilm. Simulation modes offer rich gradations and variable color tones. With a focus lever, you can immediately change its focusing point. It enables users to make instant changes to a focus area for perfect focusing.
Pros
- Amazing design
- Improved, vastly autofocus
- X-Trans CMOS sensor
- Fantastic quality of the image
- CMOS III 24.3MP X Trans APS-C sensor decrease false color and moire
- Moisture and dust resistant body
Cons
- Weak life of the battery
- Lack of touchscreen and an internal stabilization
Camera for Hiking and Backpacking FAQs
What is an aperture?
The aperture is an essential hole in the lens of the camera. Light passes through this lens to hit a sensor. Remember, large apertures offer more light. A lens in the camera may have a wide aperture to allow more light. It will make a camera useful in different shooting situations.
What is a Zoom lens?
Optical zoom is another feature to consider before buying a camera. If you want a camera to change lenses, such as DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can consider a zoom lens. For general travelers, weight and zoom are two crucial factors.
Why is battery life important?
For backpackers and hikers, battery life is an essential factor. It allows you to shoot for a longer duration. Nowadays, DSLR cameras come with an efficient battery. You can use it to take pictures with an optical viewfinder. Remember, a DSLR camera must have the ability to manage between 600 and 1,300 photos.
Conclusion
The Best Camera for Hiking and backpacking may come with several useful accessories. You can get an extra battery charger and spare batteries for prolonged shoots. For your convenience, here is a list of 10 best cameras for hiking and backpacking 2021.
You can evaluate their features and choose the best camera as per your needs. To buy the best camera, you must consider weather sealing, bulk and weight, image quality, and ease of use. Some best cameras are Canon G7 X PowerShot Digital Camera, Sony a6300 Alpha Mirrorless Digital Camera and Nikon D5300 Digital 24.2 MP CMOS SLR Camera.
You will need a camera that is convenient to use when traveling and hiking. It must not waste your time in figuring out settings and accessories. Moreover, weather sealing is an outstanding quality to protect your camera from possible issues.
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