Quick Guide to Travel Camera Gifts

by Jenny Javitch, Founder of Global Game Plan

Disclosure: Please note that many of the links below are affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase, I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you).

These are recommendations from my personal experience as a traveler and someone who loves to capture memories with friends and family. It’s not intended to be a professional analysis of all cameras on the market. I consistently use (and love) all these cameras for their high-quality and functionality in a variety of circumstances. 

 This quick guide is perfect if you are interested in:

  • Minimizing the time spent researching and reading reviews for your next camera purchase

  • Gifts for photography enthusiasts - for the hard-to-buy-for person on your gift list or someone who is just into photography stuff.

  • Buying a digital camera (and photography accessories) that’s small and easy-to-use on your next vacation

  • An inexpensive and fun camera for kids or teenagers

  • Solid recommendations for the best camera to use in a variety of situations (from someone who has used them)

Related: How to Plan a Birthday Vacation

Water Sports & Adventure

 

The Olympus Tough TG-6 Waterproof Camera is consistently ranked highly for sports and adventure cameras, digital waterproof cameras and is appropriately referred to as a “tough camera.”  Perfect for use in and around water experiences, this waterproof camera is safer than bringing your smartphone (even in a waterproof pouch).  It’s been my trusty companion in the ocean and on multiple kayaking and snorkeling trips.  The strong flash can also be used for indoor photos, so if you’re looking for a waterproof version of an indoor camera, this is it!

Compatible photography gadgets:  To upload your photos to your smartphone and social media, you can use the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi or this handy device.  Add a portable and flexible tripod to expand the use of your camera. 

 

 

Just for Fun & Kid-Friendly 

 

I have fond memories of my parents using a Polaroid camera in the 80s and the retro look of the resulting, old-fashioned square photos.  Luckily, this experience can be re-created by the Fuji Instax and Instax Wide cameras which are easy to use and produce the modern version of the iconic photographs.  

Kids of all ages love having a tangible photograph that they can hold in their hand. These instant cameras are perfect to use in a “photo booth” at a teenage party or to bring on your next vacation to create your own travel souvenirs.

Compatible photography gadgets:  Remember to buy the mini instant film or wide-sized film and a case. Use a Sharpie marker to add colorful captions to your instant photos.

 

Just-for-More-Fun Photo Printer

 

The only downside to the instant cameras is that they don’t include a digital copy. So, enter the Fujifilm INSTAX Share Mobile Printer, a clever item that provides an “instant picture” version of photos you already have on your smartphone.  You keep the original digital photo (on your smartphone) and you can print out a copy in a fun format.  Don’t forget to buy the film!  

 

Travel Vlogging Kit for Beginners

 

Want to try your hand at vlogging? Or maybe you just need a tripod for your phone or some better lighting for your Zoom calls. Check out this reasonably-priced creator vlogging kit for iPhone or Androids - it also comes with a Bluetooth remote.

 

Additional Ideas:

Activities, Photography, Travel GiftsJenny JavitchCameras