Five best compact cameras to take on a road trip this summer

Getting ready for those scenic trips and exciting road trips? Make sure you don’t forget to bring your camera! It definitely helps to take with you a compact camera to lighten the load and keep you a nimble on-the-go travel photographer. If you’re still missing a compact camera for travel in 2025, here are five top-rated options that combine portability with impressive image quality and versatile features. As a plus, you can still get these secondhand in great condition, so you don’t have to break the bank for a compact travel camera!

1. Sony RX100 VII

• Sensor: 20.1MP 1-inch stacked CMOS
• Lens: 24–200mm f/2.8–4.5 ZEISS
• Video: 4K with microphone input

Looking for something super handy? The ultra-compact design of the Sony RX100 VII is hard to beat, making it ideal for travelers who want high-end features in a pocket-sized camera. But on top of that, this camera is packed with features that allow you to get beautiful travel photos: fast autofocus, pop-up OLED viewfinder, 24-200mm zoom lens, up to 90 fps Single Burst Shooting and UHD 4K video.

2. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

• Sensor: 20.1MP 1-inch CMOS
• Lens: 24–100mm f/1.8–2.8
• Video: 4K at up to 30 fps

Thinking of starting your own travel vlog? Another compact and portable option, the Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III, is excellent for this. With its customizable control ring, you can assign manual controls for aperture, shutter speed, ISO, or manual focus so you can make quick adjustments without pressing through menus. Other features like a built-in ND filter, image stabilization, flip-up touchscreen, and Bluetooth & WiFi connectivity, it’s a great choice for those who want a versatile camera for both photos and videos.

3. Canon EOS R100

• Sensor: 24MP APS-C
• Lens: RF-S 18–45mm f/4.5–6.3 IS STM (Kit Lens)
• Video: 4K UHD (cropped at 24p) and Full HD at 60p

With its Dual Pixel autofocus, beginner-friendly interface, compact and lightweight form, and good battery life, the Canon EOS R100 is a great choice for those transitioning from smartphones to photography and vlogging using dedicated cameras. This mirrorless camera also provides flexibility with its compatibility with Canon’s growing RF lens lineup, so you can adapt to different shooting needs—from landscape photography, to street snaps, and portraits.

4. Fujifilm X100V/X100VI

• Sensor: 26.1MP APS-C
• Lens: 23mm f/2
• Video: 4K

Compact form, exceptional image quality, and manual controls—these are just some of the notable features that make the Fujifilm X100V and X100VI popular choices for situations that require you to be quick and agile. That means these cameras are ideal for street photography enthusiasts. As a bonus, those who appreciate a classic aesthetic will also love its retro design.

5. Ricoh GR III

• Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C
• Lens: 28mm f/2.8
• Video: Full HD

Another ultra-compact shooter, the Ricoh GIII is beloved for its excellent low-light performance, quick startup, built-in IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) and snap focus mode. It’s one of the most discreet and travel-friendly cameras today, making them perfect for intrepid street photographers seeking a minimalist and high-quality camera.

Each of these cameras offers unique features tailored to different travel photography needs. Consider your specific requirements, such as zoom range, video capabilities, and design preferences, to choose the one that best fits your travel style.

This post is sponsored by MPB