Quick Answer: Here are the Best Shotgun Mics for Video Content Creators

My Top Pick: JOBY Wavo PRO

Other top contenders for high-quality shotgun microphones include:

• TAKSTAR SGC-600
• RODE VideoMic Go II
• Rode VideoMic Pro+
• Shure VP83F

Read on for detailed summaries including the top features, pros and cons, and reasons to buy.

1. JOBY Wavo Pro - The Best Shotgun Microphone for Content Creators

JOBY is the brand behind the very popular Gorillapod tripods and a company that sells high-quality equipment for content creators.

Their new range of on-camera microphones has been quite popular, especially their top-tier WAVO Pro shotgun microphone, aimed at video creators, run and gun filmmakers, and YouTubers. This is an attractive option for many as it balances price, performance, and ease of use in a portable and well-built microphone.

Key Specifications

• Signal to Noise ratio: 96 dBA
• Super-cardioid polarity
• Self Noise: -76dBA (thanks to ANR)
• Condenser microphone capsule type
• Built-in USB-C chargeable battery
• Aluminum & high-quality ABS plastic material
• 0.35 lb (161 g) weight

With an excellent self-noise level, high directionality, and external audio control via the iOS or Android App (volume, output gain, EQ), this is a high-quality microphone with a nice, flat frequency response. Additionally, the microphone can record an optional -10db safe track in parallel in case of accidental clipping.

I've been using this mic on my Canon R5 for the majority of my recent run-and-gun video projects and content creation trips. The quality of the audio captured on this mic is excellent, and a world above my camera's onboard microphone. I like that it came with a quality wind jammer, which is permanently attached to the mic instead of the foam windscreen since I'm always shooting outdoors and need to cut wind noise.

Since I'm not working on studio or cinema-grade projects, this mic is more than enough for me and I never have to spend time cleaning up audio in post thanks to the in-built ANR. Additionally, the included app is a handy feature– However, admittedly, I haven't taken advantage of it to the fullest.

2. TAKSTAR SGC-600

While in no way a top-of-the-line shotgun microphone, the TAKSTAR SGC-600 often appears in gear roundups like this due to the great value-for-money it offers.

At less than a fraction of other camera-mounted shotgun mics, this canon microphone offers super-cardioid sound polarity and decent sound quality overall. However, shooters will miss advanced features and may not like the static noise it produces.

Key Specifications

• Super-cardioid polarity
• No reported self-noise specs, although some static is certainly audible
• AA Battery power
• Plastic material
• 0.165 lb (75 g) weight

While the overall specs aren't enough to turn heads, the TAKSTAR SGC-600 is a decent choice for those looking for an ultra-budget shotgun microphone under $40.

While I'm reluctant to include this microphone in this roundup, the truth is that is very hard to ignore at this price point. I used the earlier model TAKSTAR SGC-598 for my first video projects, and truthfully it is a huge step up from your camera's inbuilt audio and often enough for most beginners working on stepping up their audio game.

The newer TAKSTAR SGC600 has improved on many of the pitfalls of the previous iteration, although sticks to very basic features aimed at beginner video creators. This is a low-tier option for those who need a mic at a very affordable price.

3. RODE VideoMic Go II - Most Versatile Shotgun Mic

RODE is a brand that is almost synonymous with on-camera shotgun microphones, creating the first of its kind with their VideoMic back in 2004.

The RODE VideoMic Go II is targeted toward content creators looking for a good balance between ultra-compact portability and decent audio recording quality.

Key Specifications

• Super-cardioid polarity
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 79 dBA
• Self-noise: 15 dBA
• Plastic material
• 0.196 lb (89 g) weight

RODE's Videomic GO borrows the unique acoustic design introduced by their Videomic NTG cameras. It allows for a very versatile recording since you can mount it on your camera, attach it to a desk stand, or hang it from a boom pole.

This shotgun mic from RODE is often recommended as the best budget mic on the market. At around $100, this mic offers excellent build quality, versatility, and of course, excellent sound quality with an impressive self-noise rating that is a considerable improvement over the original GO at a very competitive price range.

However, it lacks certain advanced features like ANR or the ability to access a high-pass filter or gain control when using it with a camera. As a result, this mic may not be adequate for those searching for professional shotgun microphones.

4. RODE VideoMic Pro+

It goes without saying, the RODE VideoMic Pro+ is one of the most popular shotgun microphones for vloggers. I see this thing everywhere, and for good reason– it captures excellent audio and packs in good control features.

Key Specifications

• Super-cardioid polarity
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 79.8 dB
• Self-noise: 14 dBA
• Plastic material
• 0.259 lb (122 g) weight

The VideoMic Pro+ is the flagship shotgun microphone for content creators. While RODE NTG mics offer more quality, the truth is that these are aimed at the professional video production markets and film sets.

Video creators working on their own online videos for social media or YouTube videos will find that this mic offers more than enough control and performance. There's a reason why this thing's so popular– it does everything you need it to do.

However, I personally prefer the JOBY Wavo Pro due to the in-built ANR, which for me is one of the most useful features in a shotgun mic.

5. Shure VP83F LensHopper Shotgun Microphone

Shure's unique VP83F LensHopper is an ambitious attempt at combining a small shotgun microphone with a digital recorder.

This is a clever idea that cuts out time for professionals doing video production using mirrorless cameras or DLSRs, who would otherwise record audio to an external recording device and need to sync picture and sound in post.

Key Specifications

• Super-cardioid polarity
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 76.6 dB
• Self-noise: 17.4 dB
• Plastic material
• 0.293 lb (133 g) weight

While the Shure VP84F has been around for a while, it still offers a unique solution to cold shoe-mounted condenser microphones.

Yes, the specs ranging from NTS ratios, off-axis rejection, and general tonality are not as impressive as some of the best shotgun mics like the RODE VideoMic Pro+ or the JOBY WAVO Pro. However, the inbuilt digital recorder is a big reason why some of the biggest YouTubers like Casey Nesitat use this mic.

A confession, this is the only mic in this roundup that I haven't personally tested. However, I wanted to include it as an option because one of the major pitfalls of recording audio on a shotgun mic is the camera's microphone pre-amp, not the mic itself.

Therefore, even with slightly inferior microphone specs on paper, the Shure LensHopper might prove to offer better overall sound quality due to its internal recording capabilities. The reviews and tests online certainly seem to indicate so.

Small Electronic Organizers For Travel

	Product	Weight	Size
	LowePro GearUp Wrap	2.08 oz	7.48" x 0.03" x 4.13"
	BAGSMART Organizer	3.2 oz	6.3" x 1" x 9.5"
	Amazon Basics Universal Travel Case	9.6 oz	9.8" x 2" x 5.9"
	LowePro GearUp Pouch	3.17 oz	8.66" x 1.77" x 5.51"

Large Electronic Organizers for Travel

	Product	Weight	Size
	LowePro GearUp Case	7 oz	11.42" x 3.15" x 6.69"
	Matein Large	‎10.6 oz	10.5" x 7.75" x 3.5"
	iCozzier 13-13.3" Case	‎9.2 oz	14.17" x 10.24" x 1.57"
	BUBM Double Layer	‎8 oz	10.24" x 1.18" x 7.48"

The Best Travel Organizers for Cords, Cables & Small Items

So, here it is, my ultimate guide to the best organizers to keep your electronics in check while traveling. Let's start with the small items.

1. LowePro GearUp Wrap For Electronic Accessories

Dimensions: 7.48 x 0.03 x 4.13 inches (19 x 0.08 x 10.49 centimeters)

Weight: 2.08 ounces (58 grams)

The LowePro GearUp Wrap first travel organizer comes from LowePro's great GearUp range.

While LowePro typically offers accessories for camera gear, this range is useful for anyone looking to organize their small electronics while traveling. That's because their functionality goes way beyond just managing digital cameras and accessories. You'll find loads of organizational features for other electronic gadgets including small pockets, small elastic loops for your charging cables, and peace of mind with padded slots for valuables.

Furthermore, products in the GearUp Range are designed to be lightweight, are made from durable material, and feature semi-flexible covers for easy access.

I'm a big fan of wrap style organizers like the LowePro GearUp Wrap. This design keeps your travel essentials like small cables, USB chargers, memory sticks, styluses, pens, and memory cards tight in one easy-to-accessible location that's easy to pack.

Inside this wrap you'll find padded slots and elastic webbing, as well as a larger zipped compartment. Also, the whole thing closes up really well with the aluminum clutch on the outside.

I use this particular organizer to store camera batteries, SD cards, and a few small essential cables for my smartphone and laptop.

Don't Miss These 2023 Gift Ideas for Travelers

There's still time! Read my detailed guide to the best travel gift ideas in 2023 for the best inspiration!

36 Best Travel Gifts

2. BAGSMART Organizer Case For Smaller Items

Dimensions: 6.3 x 1 x 9.5 inches (16 x 2.54 x 24.13 centimeters)

Weight: 3.2 ounces (90 grams)

The next small travel organizer is the Bagsmart. This isa useful zip-open tech case that can hold all your chargers, cables, and even small devices.

There are several webbed pockets and useful elastic bands that are great for keeping cords organized. This one is a little larger than some of the other travel organizers in this category, which is great if you have many chargers.

This electronics travel case is made of heavy-duty, water-resistant nylon. This is great for small spills but don't expect it to be a fully waterproof electronic organizer.

While this is certainly a great product with excellent reviews, some people have noted that the thin rectangle form factor isn't the most packable. However, this will depend on what kind of travel bag you are storing it in.

3. Amazon Basics Universal Travel Case For Small Electronics

Dimensions: 9.8 x 2 x 5.9 inches (24.89 x 5.08 x 14.99 centimeters)

Weight: 9.6 ounces (272 grams)

This next electronics organizer; the Amazon Basics is a real favorite, especially for fans of a hard case. This is a great option if protecting your small electronic devices and chargers are a priority. That's because this case is made from a hard molded plastic exterior, with a soft fabric interior. In turn, this offers great protection when stored amongst other hard objects.

This is a convenient size for smaller items and comes in at an affordable price. However, there is only one size and one color to pick from. As a result, you don't get much flexibility in terms of customization. But, if you like a no-frills approach, it'll have your bases covered for the general basics like your SD Card, USB drive, iPhone charger, and cables.

Just keep in mind this one doesn't offer much in terms of managing cords. Unlike other electronics organizers in this list, you won't find elastic bands to keep your wrapped cords and USB cables in check. If this is a priority, I'd recommend checking out the LowePro alternative.

4. LowePro GearUp Pouch Electronic Travel Organizer

Dimensions: 8.66 x 1.77 x 5.51 inches (22 x 4.5 x 14 centimeters)

Weight: 3.17 ounces (89 grams)

The LowePro GearUp Pouch is the next step up from the Wrap and is one of the best electronic organizers on the market.

Coming from LowePro, you already know the material is going to be strong and lightweight. The transparent top-case is also very useful since you can see the electronics inside the case without undoing the zipper.

Another benefit of this one is the fold-out, flip cable organizer card with sturdy elastic straps. This is optional, but I keep it inside mine as it allows me to arrange all of my charger cords in one place.

Again, this is a useful pouch for smaller electronic accessories like a small phone charger, SD cards, cables, and SSD drives. However, won't fit a large power bank or full-size hard disk in here.

The Best Travel Organizers for Laptops, Tablets, Power Banks, & Large Items

Looking to revamp your tech accessory management? Pick one of the below best travel organizers for larger electronics like laptops, tablets, power banks, and larger electronic chargers.

1. LowePro GearUp Case For Large Electronics

Dimensions: 11.42 x 3.15 x 6.69 inches (29.01 x 8 x 16.99 centimeters)

Weight: 7 ounces (198 grams)

Rounding up the top picks in small travel bags & organizers in LowePro's awesome GearUp range is the GearUp Case. This is the largest electronics organizer they sell and is perfect for most large electronic items. This one features a similar design to the GearUp pouch, but in a much larger build. There are also two large padded bags that replace the front of the cord organizer.

This section is perfect for hard drives, mice, or large power banks.

I use the GearUp travel organizer case to store all of my large electronic chargers including my MacBook charger, my universal power adapter, and my battery pack. Even with all of these bulky items, this organizer still manages to leave enough room for my cables and hard drive.

If you're looking for the perfect travel organizer for all of your chargers, cables, and other travel accessories like a compact digital camera, this is it!

2. Matein Large Electronics Travel Organizer

Dimensions: 10.5 x 7.75 x 3.5 inches (26.67 x 19.68 x 8.89 centimeters)

Weight: ‎10.6 ounces (300 grams)

The Matein Large is another solid contender for the best electronics organizers for travelers. This one features three main compartments, each with varying organizational features for different devices and accessories.

With a double layer design, the main compartment has enough space for most of your accessories. There are inner elastic straps for pens and cords, as well as large mesh pockets that fit a mobile device and bulky chargers.

What's great about the Matein is that it is made from durable nylon that is splash resistant. It's marketed as waterproof but I wouldn't exactly be submerging this one in water. Regardless, it will save your valuable electronic gear from a bit of rain or a spilled drink.

Again, this one won't store a laptop or a tablet. However, it should have you covered for most of electronics while traveling if you purchase a separate case for those items.

3. iCozzier 13-13.3" Case For Laptops & Travel Tech

Dimensions: 14.17 x 10.24 x 1.57 inches (35.99 x 26.01 x 3.99 centimeters)

Weight: ‎9.2 ounces (260 grams)

Finally, travel case that will also store your laptop and tablet. The Icozzier is a popular all-in-one solution that looks like a slightly beefier laptop bag. However, when you unzip it, you'll find various organizational features including durable elastic straps for cables, and webbed-pockets for large chargers as well as small accessories.

The laptop sleeve compartment is also padded, ensuring decent protection for your laptop. In saying that, I'm not a huge fan of putting my laptop in the same bag as other hard items like chargers. But, if you're set on a single organizer solution, this is a great bet that is cost-effective and lightweight.

4. BUBM Double Layer Electronic ORganizer for Travel

Dimensions: 10.24 x 1.18 x 7.48 inches (26.01 x 3 x 19 centimeters)

Weight: 8 ounces (226 grams)

The last electronics case for travel is the BUBM Double Layer. This borrows a similar design from the Matein, in a slightly smaller form factor. No, you can't fit a laptop in here, but as mentioned above, many people don't like to do this anyway.

Instead, the BUBM covers most of your devices and accessories from iPads, cell phones, charges, cables, hard drives and more. It's also very light for a larger electronics organizer, coming in at just 8 ounces. The minimal soft-case design with durable zip at a decent price makes it great bang-for-buck.

If a zippered case with adjustable dividers in a dual compartment setup sounds like your idea of the best travel electronics organizer, then the BUMB Double Layer is the one for you.

Quicklist: Here are the Top 6 Travel Gift Ideas

Here's my quick list of the best travel gifts in 2022/2023. Scroll down for more, broken down into travel essentials, travel tech and useful gadgets, small gifts under $100, some sustainable ideas, as well as some unique and thoughtful options.

• Gift the Best Carry-On Luggage: Nomatic Travel Pack
• Most Practical Gift: Compression Packing Cubes
• Best Gift for Peace of Mind Travel: Apple AirTags
• Best Travel Drone: DJI Mini 3
• Most Sustainable Travel Gift: Collapsable Travel Straw
• Most Unique Gift Idea: Wacaco Picopresso - a truly unique travel-friendly espresso gadget

Best Useful Travel Essentials

1. Nomatic Travel Pack - Ultimate Carry-On Luggage

The number one spot for the absolute best travel gift for frequent flyers is this travel bag by Nomatic. You'll find this carry-on luggage backpack listed in almost all gift guides, and that's because it truly is the most functional, high-quality backpack in the world.

With several thousand 5-star reviews, you can guarantee that your favorite traveler will be absolutely stoked with this awesome travel backpack.

2. Compression Packing Cubes for Organized Luggage

Truthfully, experienced travelers cringe when they see people ripping out their luggage contents to find a t-shirt or pair of pants. These days, packing cubes are probably the most recommended travel essential for organization, and something your wandering loved one will truly appreciate.

Any cheap packing cube will do though, right? After owning several cheaper options, I've found that the zippers often fail just a few weeks into a trip.

However, after purchasing the WANDRD Packing Cube set, I'm convinced that these are the last cubes I'll ever buy. Not only are they very high-quality and portable, they even incorporate a compression zipper system, allowing travelers to save valuable luggage space and get easy, quick access to their belongings.

The #1 Photography Accessory

Enter the Peak Design Capture Clip. I've used this for years to quickly clip my camera to my backpack's shoulder strap. This is the most comfortable way to carry a camera and will save your neck a ton of strain.

Buy at Peak Design

Buy on Amazon

3. Apple AirTags - Help Them Never Lose Their Luggage Again

Ever experienced the pain of delayed or lost luggage? Here's a unique travel gift idea you might not have considered.

Enter the Apple AirTags, the perfect gift for frequent travelers. Slip one of these guys into your checked-in luggage and track exactly where your suitcase or backpack ends up. These things have been super helpful for me on several occasions when uninterested flight attendants and carrier clerks simple "can't find my bag".

With Apple AirTags, you can show the exact GPS location of your luggage, ensuring it will return to you much quicker.

4. Grayl GeoPress - Gift the Last Travel Bottle They'll Ever Need

The Grayl GeoPress is the ultimate travel filter bottle. It's an easy-to-use water purifier that turns even the dirtiest stream or tap water into crystal-clear, safe drinking water.

Seriously, I've used this water bottle for the past two years almost every day, filtering water from national parks to hostel kitchens in India. In the process, I've saved hundreds of plastic bottles from landfill and never once gotten sick.

The Grayl is my personal favorite on this list, and I'd say easily one of the best travel gift ideas for any type of traveler!

5. Trtl Travel Pillow

Scrap the gimmicky memory foam and uncomfortable inflatable travel pillows. Anyone who's used these on long haul flights knows that they're useless.

However, if you're looking for a great gift for your loved ones that'll save their neck during long flights or cross-country road trips, check out the Trtl travel pillow, an innovative and hugely successful Kickstarter project that changed the travel pillow game.

Unlike traditional neck pillows, the Trtl design provides scientifically proven neck support and jumps leaps and bounds in terms of comfort over the competition.

6. Microfiber Travel Towel

Whether that special someone is planning a tropical vacation or going on a world backpacking tour, they're going to want to bring a towel. However, regular towels take up far too much space and take ages to dry.

That's why you'll always see veteran frequent travelers carrying a microfiber travel towel. These are fast-drying and come in a super compact design.

There are many to choose from on Amazon, but the best value for money is the Rainleaf, which is one of the most lightweight, useful travel gifts that they can use at remote campsites, stretched on a sandy beach in the Bahamas, or in a hotel room.

Most Useful Tech & Gadget Gifts For Travelers

7. Apple AirPods Gen 2 (Noise Cancelling Ear Buds)

There's a reason why Apple's AirPods are the number-one selling truly wireless earbuds of all time. Not only does the sound quality come close to matching large, over-the-ear headphones, but they come in a tiny travel-friendly size!

Also, AirPods are one of the most frequently purchased Christmas gift. But, before you rush out and buy a pair for travelers, you'll want to consider the Airpods Pro, since the others don't offer active noise canceling.

The improved noise-canceling on the Gen 2 AirPods Pro is absolutely unreal, and will easily block out that screaming baby on a train, or the soul-penetrating hum of the jet engines on long-haul flights.

8. Anker USB Powerbank (Portable Charger)

A portable charger, ie power bank is an absolute travel gadget essential. What's worse than a dead phone or camera battery in transit or worse, when you want to capture that perfect memory?

Anker is America's leading portable power and charging brand, and its PowerCore III is currently the top charger for travel, as it offers a high, flight-legal capacity, lightweight design, and fast charging capability through its multiple USB ports.

9. Airfly Pro Plane Bluetooth Transmitter

Looking to gift a unique travel gadget that your loved ones didn't even know they needed?

The Airly Bluetooth transmitter is a useful piece of travel tech that plugs into the airplane's entertainment system, allowing anybody to watch movies or listen to music on their own Bluetooth earbuds or noise-canceling headphones.

10. GoPro Hero 11

If you're willing to fork out a couple of hundred bucks for the ideal gift this season, then the GoPro Hero 11 is going to be it.

The GoPro is an adventure travel staple. Its tiny, compact design delivers absolutely incredible images and stable, high-resolution video, allowing anybody to capture epic and unforgettable travel moments almost anywhere!

11. Or... The Insta360 One X3 360 Camera

GoPros are truly great, but in 2023, it's all about 360 cameras, especially for capturing those incredible travel moments.

These unique and innovative travel cameras capture 360-degree angles, allowing anybody to preserve the entire scene in a tiny little action camera. The Insta360 One X3 can also be used as a traditional action camera, which means it comes close to being the all-in-one travel camera solution.

12. Kindle eReader

If you've ever tried reading an eBook on an iPad or smartphone, then you already know how distant this experience is from the real thing.

However, the Kindle Paperwhite is in a different ballpark, coming as close as it gets to reading physical paper. The reason why this is a great gift for travelers is that they can now store literally thousands of their favorite books on a small device that weighs a fraction of a paperback!

13. International Travel Adapter With USB Charging

Many of the gadgets in this travel gift guide offer practical solutions, but perhaps one of the most useful presents you can give is an international portable charger with GaN technology and USB charging.

Sounds technical, but basically, this is a new piece of charging technology allowing for small, compact charger designs with several USB Ports that can literally replace an entire bag of adapters, chargers, and cables.

I personally use the MINIX 66W GaN Charger bundle, which will work in almost every country on earth. It also has 2 USB-C ports and a regular USB-A port, allowing me to fast-charge my phone, kindle, and camera on a single fast-charging unit.

14. Sony WH-1000MX5 Noise Canceling Headphones

If you know a traveling audiophile who favors sound quality over portability, then an excellent gift idea is the Sony WH-1000xm5 noise-canceling headphones.

These are frequently recommended as one of the best over-ear headphones on the market, and offer better noise canceling and better sound quality than smaller earbuds like the Apple Airpods Pro at a cheaper price.

Rest assured your family members will think of you when they get a peaceful rest on their next international flight.

15. DJI Mini 3 Travel Drone

Know a certain person who likes to venture to beautiful destinations around the US or internationally? One of th best travel gifts you can buy for them is an ultra-compact and affordable travel drone like the DJI Mini 3.

Flying this foldable 4K drone is very easy, and even beginners can do this with ease in up to 38 kph (level 5) winds thanks to its intelligent sensors and return-to-home ability.

Plus, this tiny travel drone weighs only 249 g, meaning wanderers can fly this almost anywhere without needing to register or obtain a license.

Small Travel Gift Ideas Under $100

16. LowePro Gearup - Travel Electronics Organizer

Looking for more practical travel gifts for all of those gadgets? While everyone uses travel cubes, go one step further and buy your friends and family a travel electronics organizer.

My favorite is the LowePro GearUp organizer, a super lightweight and cost-effective solution to keeping all of my chargers, cables, and memory cards in one place, without losing them in the bottom of my backpack or hotel room.

17. Nomatic Travel Laundry Bag

There's nothing worse than leaving dirty, sweaty clothes in your luggage. That's why I recommend every traveler to carry a high quality laundry bag.

If you know somebody who travels a lot, then the best option will be the Nomatic laundry bag, an awesome breathable mesh and collapsible bag perfect for the long-term backpacker or business traveler on the go.

What I really find useful is this bag has a hanging frame and strap, making it perfect for hanging in a hotel bathroom or hostel dormitory.

18. Philips One by Sonicare Rechargeable Toothbrush

Everybody knows that electric toothbrushes are magnitudes better than old, manual ones. However, the problem for travelers is that these are almost always heavy, bulky, and would never fit in a toiletry bag.

However, fans of Sonicare toothbrushes will love the new Philips One rechargeable travel toothbrush. Thanks to its inbuilt high-power rechargeable battery and Sonicare motor technology, this compact electric toothbrush outperforms everything else on the market, for less than $40!

Best of all, this toothbrush charges through its USB port, meaning they won't need to buy more AA batteries. Oh, and the universal Philips One brush heads can be found almost everywhere in the world!

19. Nomatic Toiletries Bag - The Perfect Gift for Frequent Flyers

If you haven't guessed by now, I'm a huge fan of Nomatic. I use quite a few of their products every single day, including their highly-acclaimed hanging Toiletry Wash Bag, which is an excellent gift for organized travelers.

Unlike cheap Amazon alternatives, nomads and drifters can keep all of their bathroom items like toothbrushes, shavers, and makeup in a durable, water-proof, and bacteria-resistant storage case.

This means they can hang this toiletry bag in the shower without worrying about getting it wet.

20. CLCKR Phone Grip & Stand

Chasing small items as a cheap and easy travel gift idea? Grab a CLCKR Phone Grip and Stand.

This is the perfect gift for frequent flyers, as it provides a stable and easy-to-use stand solution for smartphones and tablets. Furthermore, it comes in several different styles and colors, which is great if you want to buy several for different people!

21. Steripod Toothbrush Caps - Great Gift for Germophobe Travelers

Another quick and easy present to add to the travel lovers' stocking this year is a Steripod clip-on toothbrush cap.

These are universal toothbrush protectors that slide over the top of most manual and electric toothbrushes, keeping them clean and free of dirty bacteria you might find in some foreign countries.

22. Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch

Have a family member who's planning a tropical island getaway this year? Get them a thoughtful gift like the Hiearcool Universal Phone Pouch to keep their iPhone or Android watertight!

These waterproof phone cases cost less than $10 and have over 70,000 5-star reviews on Amazon!

23. Zero Grid Travel Neck Wallet

Whether you're purchasing gifts for frequent flyers or road trippers, a travel neck wallet is one of the most useful small gifts you can buy.

If you check on Amazon, The Zero Grid wallet is by far the most popular and has outstanding reviews. This thing has RFID-blocking technology inbuilt, meaning credit cards and personal information stays protected.

Skip the expensive, bulky passport wallets, this is the one they'll want.

Sustainable Gifts for Eco-Conscious Roamers

24. Reusable Cutlery

We all know we need to be more mindful of what we consume. That's why all of the travel gift ideas I've recommended in this buyer's guide will last a long time.

But, some gifts, like this bamboo reusable cutlery set take it a step further by allowing travelers to reduce plastic waste on their trips. Bamboo is an incredibly renewable material and there's evidence to suggest that it is naturally antibacterial.

25. Collapsible Travel Cup

Another thoughtful gift for travelers who love to drink coffee is this neat collapsible Travel Cup by Stojo.

This little cup is leak-proof and reusable, meaning your loved ones can whip out a pocketable cup at the cafe to save on single-use plastic. If you know someone who visits a Starbucks in every country they visit, this is one of the best gifts for them!

26. Reusable Travel Straw & Cleaning Kit

While there's a plethora of reusable straws on the market these days, one of the most unique options for travelers is this awesome collapsible stainless steel drinking straw.

This comes in an unusual telescopic design, meaning this food-grade stainless steel straw can fold up into a tiny keyring holder. It also comes with a cleaning wand which means it'll be easy to keep clean for the next adventure.

27. Patagonia Black Hole Hip Pack

Patagonia is perhaps the best example of an environmentally-forward company. Not only do they donate massive amounts of their proceeds to charity, but their products are from recycled materials that are still very high quality.

The Patagonia Black Hole hip pack is my go-to fanny pack for travel. It's extremely lightweight and fits everything from my wallet, credit cards, phone, passport, and earbuds.

This is a great gift for around $30 that your favorite traveler will keep for a long time.

28. Reef Safe Sunscreen by Sunbum

Looking for a unique Christmas gift or birthday present for beach lovers, snorkelers, or scuba divers?

Make sure they're wearing reef-save sunscreen on their next trip to the Marine National Parks around the world. Sunbum is one of the best environmentally-friendly SPF 50 sunscreens that doesn't include any harmful chemicals that kill corals.

Fun & Unique Travel Gift Ideas

29. Give a Travel Experience with a GetYourGuide Gift Card

Sometimes, the best gift isn't a physical one. This is especially true for those of us who value memories over possessions.

While a gadget or packing cube can be useful, a travel gift card is one of the most fun travel gifts, because they'll likely remember the experience much longer than any product.

The best travel booking website that I use all over the world is GetYourGuide. They have fun bookable experiences in over 100 countries, allowing your friends and family to choose their own once-in-a-lifetime experiences like scuba diving, sky diving, or even just an awesome city food tour.

30. Bodylastics Stackable Travel Resistance Bands

Know someone who always puts on a couple of extra holiday pounds? What about a gym junkie who freaks out over losing their summer body on vacation?

Get them this unique travel gift idea– a portable gym that folds up into a tiny pouch! The Bodylastics resistance bands are stackable in different colors representing resistance strength. This allows anyone to get a solid workout almost anywhere!

31. Wacaco Picopresso - Perfect Present for Coffee-loving Travelers

The brand-new Wacaco Picopresso changes the coffee game for travelers! Now, we have a high quality espresso machine that rivals thousand-dollar setups, right in the palm of our hands!

The Picopresso is the perfect travel gift for extreme coffee lovers that lets them take their java with them on the road. Pair this with something like the Nanofoamer V2 and they've got a portable cafe in their backpack!

32. Scratch-off Travel Map

Looking for fun travel gifts that your loved ones can keep at home? Check out this awesome scratch-off travel map that'll help them keep all of their awesome travel memories on display!

33. National Geographic's Traveller's Journal

There are thousands of travel journals available on Amazon. However, by far the most popular and well-rated is this awesome journal collaboration between Moleskine and National Geographic.

This is an extremely well-thought-out travel journal with plenty of space for all the essentials like travel planning, scrapbooking, and journaling for documenting adventures.

34. Dynotag Luggage Tag

Any frequent flyer knows how important it is to keep a durable luggage tag secured to their belongings. If the travel lover in your life doesn't already have a metal tag, get them a Dynotag luggage tag. These are highly durable and won't wear off, deterring any potential thieves and making sure they get their luggage to the final destination.

Combine this gift with a set of Apple Airtags and they'll be sure to thank you.

35. Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard - Great Gift for Road Trip Adventurers

Know a van lifer or frequent road tripper? Get them this awesome inflatable SUP by SereneLife.

This adults stand-up paddleboard is roughly 6 inches thick when fully inflated, but folds down to fit in a tiny carry bag that'll fit easily in the trunk of even the smallest vehicles.

36. Arcteryx Beta LT Waterproof Goretex Jacket

If none of the awesome travel gift ideas on this list has got you inspired yet, then perhaps the number-one-rated Goretex waterproof jacket might.

Arcteryx is known as the best in the Goretex game. And, their Beta LT jacket is a serious waterproof jacket for hikers, trekkers, and outdoor enthusiasts. There's a variant for men and women, with several different colors to choose from.

More Useful Guides to Gifts & Travel Essentials

I hope that you've found this comprehensive list of 36 great travel gift ideas useful in planning your holiday shopping list!

Before you head off, check out some of my other comprehensive reviews and buyer's guides to travel essentials below.

• 3 Best Trekking Travel Insurance Policies for High Altitude Hiking & Expeditions
• Digital Nomad Jobs - 2023 Guide to Making Money Online While Traveling
• Digital Nomad Packing List - 15 Practical Things Everyone Needs in 2023
• Travel Packing List for India: What You Need to Bring On a Trip to India

2. Garmin Search & Rescue Insurance (With A Supported Device)

Garmin isn’t a company that you’d traditionally expect to provide travel insurance or high altitude Search and Rescue coverage.

However, this global tech giant has recently begun offering Search and Rescue (SAR) Insurance plans to those who own one of their compatible satellite communication devices like the popular and affordable InReach Mini.

The way that this policy works is that Garmin will cover financial reimbursement up to $100,000 USD for qualified search and rescue related expenses when you use your Garmin satellite device for SOS, resulting in the Garmin IERCC coordinating your rescue. Their insurance memberships are only available as yearly plans.

Due to you needing to use their device to call the helicopter evacuation or search and rescue team, the coverage is very cheap. However, unfortunately, this basic policy has an altitude cap of 5000 meters. As a result, if you are planning to step above this at any point, you’ll have to step up to the High Risk (HR) policy.

The Garmin SAR HR policy covers all adventure sports from rock climbing in remote areas to BASE jumping, to wingsuits– so, you know that this insurance policy will cover any trek or high altitude mountaineering expedition.

I recently purchased this insurance for Mera Peak in Nepal (6476 m) and while I didn’t have to use it, provided me with one of the most cost-effective trekking travel insurance policies for mountains above 6000 meters. Furthermore, the InReach lets me stay in contact with family members with basic SMS messaging over satellite, anywhere on earth.

Tip: Garmin InReach Mini

I’ve been using the Garmin InReach Mini satellite communicator for all serious treks and expeditions since 2020. It lets me send unlimited SMS anywhere on earth and has an emergency SOS feature that could save your life.

Buy at REI

Amazon

3. World Nomads Travel Insurance

World Nomads Travel Insurance is one of the industry leaders in adventure travel insurance and will cover trekking at high altitudes up to 6000 meters.

Looking for trekking travel insurance for the Everest Base Camp Trek or Machu Picchu? This travel insurance provider will be a great option for many popular treks and hikes just like this in the Himalayas or in South America.

That’s because World Nomads is the only traditional insurance company that I know of offering trekking travel insurance above 5500 meters, with a solid claims record and a good reputation in the backpacker and adventure travel community. Their travel insurance plans offer varying levels of cover (Explorer and Standard) but are both quite comprehensive:

• Overseas dental and medical expenses (including altitude sickness)
• Trip protection (trip cancellation)
• Stolen credit cards
• Delayed baggage
• Travel delay
• Emergency evacuation (medical evacuation coverage)

World Nomads have been around for a long time. In fact, I used to use their annual policies when I first started traveling full-time for work, before I switched to the more affordable SafetyWing insurance (4500 m altitude cap)– combined with a Garmin SAR HR for expeditions.

More Info: World Nomads

Best Travel Insurance for Trekking Up to 6000m

If you’re planning a trek or mountaineering expedition up to 6000 meters, then you have the option of picking either Global Rescue, Garmin SAR HR (with a supported device), or a World Nomads travel insurance policy.

Both Global Rescue and Garmin SAR HR offer great cover and do not have an altitude cap. However, World Nomads will void the insurance if you step above 6000 meters, including personal accident cover.

Popular trekking peaks below 6000 meters where these plans will have you covered include:

• Summit of Kilamanjaro (5895 m)
• Pico de Orizaba (5636 m)
• Misti (5822 m)
• Carihuairazo (5020 m)
• Yala Peak (5700 m)
• Many accessible peaks in Bolivia

So, if you’re really planning on staying under 6000 meters of elevation, any of the above will do just fine.

Everest Base Camp Travel Insurance

No, there’s no such thing as specific travel insurance for the Everest Base Camp trek. However, just like above, any of my three recommendations will have you covered for the EBC since the highest elevation that you’ll likely reach will be at Kala Patthar (5644 m).

1. ND Filter Set For the Mavic 3

The most common filters, and the one that most aerial photographers purchase for their Mavic 3 is an ND, or Neutral density filter set.

The job of this filter is to modify the intensity of all wavelengths (light and color) equally. These filters work by using high-quality light reduction materials which don’t modify natural colors. What this means is that you’ll have precise control of the amount of light that reaches the Mavic’s 20MP four-thirds sensor.

Why Use ND Filters For Drone Photography?

The most common use of ND filters is to reduce the intensity of light, allowing drone videographers to use the correct shutter speed to conform with the 180-degree rule. This rule states that in order to create buttery smooth video, the shutter speed should be set to double the frame rate.

Of course, on a bright, sunny day, dialing in the correct exposure while shooting at 1/50 or 1/100 (25fps or 50fps) would be almost impossible, even at the narrowest aperture setting.

Snapping on the correct ND filter for the ambient light situation onto your Mavic camera will allow you to control the exposure and still have flexibility with your aperture setting.

Alternatively, a second use-case for an ND filter would be to block out a lot more light, giving drone photographer’s the flexibility to bring up the exposure time and create motion blur in their still images. While this has technically been possible on previous drones, none have been as stable as the Mavic 3 and long-exposure photography was usually a miss more than a hit for most of the time. However, thanks to the Mavic’s 3 improved stability, long exposure photography of up to 2-3 seconds usually results in great images!

ND strengths explained: the ND number refers to how strong the darkening effect is, correlated to f-stops. Say we want to reduce 1 stop of light, we want to halve (1/2) the amount of light reaching the sensor. In order to do this, we will use an ND2 filter. Conversely, if we want to reduce the amount of light by two halves, or stops, (1/4 the amount of light), we will use an ND4 filter. Again, on a very bright day, we might want to halve the amount of light six times (1/64), so we would use an ND64 filter.

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36 Best Travel Gifts

The Best ND Filter Set for the Mavic 3

I’ve used many filter brands over the years, including brands like NiSi filters, PGYTECH filters, and Tiffen. However, none offer such a high quality of optical glass as PolarPro Filters.

1. PolarPro VND Filter Set

PolarPro is my go-to brand for all my drone filters and I’ve been using their high-quality, optical glass filters for the past two years almost exclusively.

This brand is well-known for creating some of the best variable ND filters on the market. And, their VND 2-Pack is one of the best neutral-density filters for the Mavic 3.

This pack comes with 2-5 and 6-9 stop filter variations, allowing for precise control of light in the majority of conditions. Variable NDs work by twisting the ring to increase or decrease the darkening effect. This is useful since you will be able to get a more precise lighting setting without carrying around a dozen filters.

Furthermore, I’m a big fan of the reliable fit of their lightweight aluminum AirFrame 4.0 clip-on design, which is sure to stay on the camera lens no matter the flying conditions.

2. PolarPro Vivid Collection

The majority of my photo and video work involves flying over water, snow, or other bright, reflective surfaces. While I’ve gone into detail a little more regarding the use of Mavic 3 filters for polarizing light, I’ll skip ahead a little and introduce my absolute favorite drone filters.

If you ask me what the most essential drone filters are, I’ll tell you it’s these NDPL filters. This combines high-quality Germanpolarizing glass with ND8, ND16, and ND32 neutral density options. The result is a single set of three filters that’ll have you covered for all the various shots you’re looking to capture.

3. DJI ND Filters

If you purchased the DJI Mavic 3 Fly More Combo, you’ll already have the awesome set of ND filters including ND4, ND8, ND16, and ND32 variants.

These DJI ND filters for the Mavic 3 are among the most popular, since they are affordable and of decent quality. If you didn’t bag the fly more combo, then you can also purchase these from DJI or Amazon.

Furthermore, DJI also sell an ND64/128/256/512 filter set for very harsh lighting conditions or for some serious slow-shutter photography.

While these standard ND filters will likely do the job, it’s hard to compare them to the high-end glass you’ll get with PolarPro filters.

Related: Best Lightweight Tripods for Travel & Hiking

The #1 Photography Accessory

Enter the Peak Design Capture Clip. I’ve used this for years to quickly clip my camera to my backpack’s shoulder strap. This is the most comfortable way to carry a camera and will save your neck a ton of strain.

Buy at Peak Design

Buy on Amazon

2. Polarizer Filters (CPL Filters)

If there’s a single filter that I’d recommend for aerial photographers, it’s a CPL filter.

CPL filters, or circular polarizer filters, work in the same way that your polarized sunglasses do. Essentially, these filters, when oriented properly will filter out the glare, while still allowing plenty of light through the camera lens.

This is essential if you are shooting over water or harsh, reflective surfaces like roads or snow. Furthermore, reducing the shiny reflections naturally increases the vibrance and saturation of real colors, resulting in a beautiful image.

Filter tip: due to the way that polarizing filters work, you need to manually twist the CPL filter to ensure proper polarization depending on the sun’s angle. As a result, I don’t recommend regular PL filters without the option of dialing in the polarization effect.

The Best CPL Filter Kit for the Mavic 3

If you’re after bang-for-buck, then I highly recommend PolarPro’s Vivid Collection ND filter kit, which combines light-reducing ND filters with polarized glass.

However, below I’ll list some more top-of-the-range Mavic 3 CPL filters to give you some variety.

1. PolarPro CPL Filter

Unfortunately, PolarPro’s Vivid Collection doesn’t come with a CPL filter without any ND light reduction.

There are many use cases for a regular CPL filter for still drone photography. For example, imagine shooting stills of a fast-moving speed boat powering through the waves, or a snowboarder launching off a snowy ramp. In these situations, you want to maximize frame rate, while reducing glare.
The PolarPro CPL filter does just that, and is the filter that I use on my camera almost every day if I’m shooting stills or recording aerial video while trying to preserve low-light details.

This filter is very high-quality and built from the same glass and frame materials as their highly-acclaimed vivid collection.

2. Freewell CPL Filter

Freewell are well-known for making affordable, yet decent-quality drone filters. I’ve used Freewell filters on my previous Mavic 2 Pro and they performed quite well. However, while I’m yet to try the Freewell CPL filter for the Mavic 3, reviews seem to fit the bill from the previous generation.

For around $25, you can bag a decent CPL filter which does a great job at reducing glare and boosting contrast. However, just like the stock DJI ND filters, don’t expect cinema-grade glass on these cheaper Mavic 3 filters.

Related: Finding the Best Camera Bag for Travel

3. FX Filters For Unique Drone Shots

Other than a light-reducing ND filter kit and a CPL filter, there’s little else you really NEED to start creating amazing, professional aerial photographs and cinematic video with your drone.

However, advanced users, or those working in film production might be interested in FX filters. FX in the cinematography world essentially means effects, and when it comes to filters, usually work by adding some kind of cool, unique, or quirky look to the footage.

While I don’t use FX filters too much for my adventure travel and landscape content, I have listed some awesome filters below that might catch your eye.

Common Special Effects Filters for the DJI Mavic 3

1. Morphic Filters

Morphic looks are a very new concept in aerial filters. These work by adding long, cinematic-looking streaks and flares that really give a unique look almost impossible to replicate in post-production.

The only options I’ve been able to find are made by PolarPro, who sell a BlueMorphic and GoldMorphic for cold, or warm light streak looks.

2. Mist Filters

Looking to enhance your footage with that dreamy, cinematic look you often see on the silver screen? Mist filters work by giving your aerial shot a soft, atmospheric vibe.

Depending on the manufacturer, these FX filters come in various strengths, or densities. The best options are from PolarPro, Freewell, and NiSi, and sometimes even come integrated with neutral density coatings as well.

Quick Answer: Here Are the Best Travel Water Bottle Filters

I get it, who wants to read an entire essay about the best water purifier bottles?

That's why I'm giving you the quick answers right here, with links to buy the bottles from Amazon, REI, or directly from the manufacturer.

The absolute best travel water filter bottle is the Grayl GeoPress
An all-in-one travel water bottle filter and water purifyer using an innovative and ridiculously easy-to-use press system. Turns any dirty or suspicious water into clean, great-tasting drinking water so we can focus on the adventure. This is the only water bottle filter that allows us to actually transport clean water, but more on this below.

I've personally used this bottle for a few years on a daily basis. I've used it to filter tap water in India and questionable water sources in Colombia. I even use it to press out any chemical or metal tastes from safe tap water in countries like Australia and the United States.

But, you didn't come here just to hear about one filter bottle. So, here are 9 more travel water filter bottles to consider:

1. Grayl UltraPress - the newer, lighter Grayl. Great for hiking or when you need an ultralight purifier bottle.
2. Epic Nalgene Ultimate Travel OG - good straw-style water bottle filter for lovers of Nalgene
3. Lifestraw Go - convenient for everyday use
4. Surivimate - budget straw filter bottle
5. LARQ Purevis- insulated UV-C light filtration bottle
6. Nalgene Bottle with Steripen Ultra - unique solution combining a versatile UV filter with a regular Nalgene
7. Seychelle Advanced - unique bottle filter removes radioactive contaminants
8. Katadyn BeFree - very lightweight and compactable filter bottle
9. CrazyCap Pro - popular UV filter lid compatible with a wide range of plastic bottles

Below I'll give a thorough rundown of each bottle, outlining the pros, cons, and ranking important features to help you make an informed decision to purchase the best water filter bottle for your travels and adventures.

But First, Why Should Travelers Invest in the Best Water Filter Bottle In the First Place?

Still not convinced that a water bottle-style filter is the best option for travel? Let me help with that.

Alternatively, skip directly to the review of each bottle below.

1. A Filter Will Keep you Safe from Harmful Bacteria & Parasites

Access to safe drinking water anywhere is likely already your biggest motivation for buying a filter bottle.

However, did you know that most of the bottles in this roundup remove 99.99% of harmful contaminants, even from dirty, stagnant water sources including lake water and even muddy puddles?

Most importantly, the best water bottle filter should filter bacteria such E. coli, which is the cause of Traveler's Diarrhea, more commonly known as Delhi belly, Bali belly, Montezuma's revenge, or the Aztec two-step. Whatever you want to call it, the Rangoon runs is serious business– and the leading cause of illness in travelers overseas.

2. Using a Filter Bottle While Traveling Reduces Plastic Waste

Secondly, the impact of one traveler simply swapping to a reusable water bottle rather than buying two 1.25L plastic water bottles each day is remarkable. Consider a 3-month backpacking trip in South East Asia. That's over 180 plastic bottles either ending up in landfill or more likely, burnt up into our atmosphere.

3. Even an Expensive Travel Filter Bottle Will Save You Money

Yes, a high-quality water bottle filter might seem like a considerable investment for just a bottle.

But, consider the cost of the above example. Those plastic bottles might seem cheap, but the cost adds up. When we total the cost of the single-use bottles with the inevitable use of water purification tablets on hikes, the yearly cost is in the several hundreds of dollars.

A good, reliable travel filter bottle will save you money!

4. Bottle Filters are By Far the Most Convenient and Easy-to-Use

Yes, but why not just buy a gravity filter system, simple straw filter, or squeeze filtration system for travel?

Because chances are that you simply will give up on these systems because they are too inconvenient.

A travel-ready filter bottle is simple, easy to use, clean, and doesn't feel like a chore.

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Detailed Breakdown: The 10 Best Water Bottle Filters for Travel & The Outdoors

So, here it is, the long breakdown of the best water bottle filters for travel and hiking.

I've rated each of these bottles based on:

• Ease of use - convenience for everyday use
• Quality of clean water - taste and range of protection
• Flow rate - how quickly the bottle turns bad water into safe water (measured in liters per minute)
• Durability & material - what the product is made from, and how long it will hold up
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement - filter lifespan in gallons & liters, and how much a replacement costs

For a further breakdown of these criteria, skip to the bottom of this article.

Otherwise, let's get into the review!

1. The Best Bottle Filter For Travel: The Grayl GeoPress

• Ease of use: 5/5 - Very Easy
• Quality of clean water: 5/5 - Excellent Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: 5 liters/minute (8 seconds per 24oz)
• Durability & material: 5/5 - BPA-FREE polypropylene #5, food-grade silicone, TPE, and ABS food-grade plastic to withstand drops of 10ft+ onto concrete (full of water)
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: 250 liters | $29.95

You already know that the Grayl GeoPress is the world's best water bottle filter for travel, hiking, and everyday use. It's the only bottle on the market that can purify dirty water and store it inside the same system with a best-in-class outstanding flow rate.

The GeoPress works by filling dirty water into the outer "case", and pressing the inner filter bottle into it, effectively creating fresh, clean drinking water from any water source, without any risk of cross-contamination.

This makes the GeoPress extremely versatile. It allows travelers to filter 24 oz of water in just 8 seconds, which is great for cooking in the backcountry and sharing water with others by letting them fill their own bottles with the purified water.

The quality of water and range of protection is also best in its class, effectively removing:

• 99.99% of viruses
• 99.9999% of bacteria
• 99.9% of protozoa
• All particulates including microplastics, sediment, and silt
• Chemicals including chlorine, benzene, chloroform
• Heavy metals including lead, arsenic, chromium

This level of filtration effectively makes the Grayl system also a water purifying bottle, since it is able to filter out bacteria, protozoan cysts, and heavy metals– plus waterborne virus as well. Protection from virus is paramount for any traveler making their way to continents like Asia, Africa, and Central/South America, where a purifier bottle is essential.

The Grayl states that the cartridge lasts roughly 350 presses. However, by filtering mostly clean water without particulates, I've managed to get away with using at least double this amount. Filter cartridges are also very easy to find around the world in outdoor stores, and Grayl even has a recycling program for these.

I've used this bottle for several years and have very few gripes with it. The weight and size are the only downsides I can think of for weight-critical hikers. However, if this is a priority, the issue is solved by opting for the UltraPress option instead.

2. The best LIghtweight Water Bottle Filter: Grayl UltraPress

• Ease of use: 5/5 - Very Easy
• Quality of clean water: 5/5 - Excellent Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: 3 liters/minute (10 seconds per 16.9oz)
• Durability & material: 5/5 - BPA-FREE polypropylene #5, food-grade silicone, TPE, and ABS food-grade plastic to withstand drops of 10ft+ onto concrete (full of water)
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: 150 liters | $24.95

The runner-up place for the world's best water bottle filter for travel is the Grayl UltraPress. This is a new addition from The Grayl, coming in a 16.9 oz (500 mL) bottle as opposed to the 24 oz (710 mL) GeoPress. The smaller size bottle means that is much lighter, at only 12.5 oz (354 grams), and fits much better in a backpack drink bottle holder.

Additionally, the UltraPress provides the same safe water protection (removing viruses, bacteria, protozoa, heavy metals) as the original GeoPress. Due to the lighter weight and better packability, I've decided to swap out my original GeoPress and use the UltraPress instead for everyday use and travel.

For longer hikes where I need more water, I use it to filter and fill my 3L water bladder in my camera backpack.

Bottom line: If weight and packability are a priority when choosing the best travel water bottle filter, pick the UltraPress. Alternatively, if you prefer a larger capacity and longer filter duration, go for the GeoPress.

3. Epic Nalgene Ultimate Travel OG

• Ease of use: 4/5 - Easy
• Quality of clean water: 5/5 - Excellent Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: information not available - reported more restricted flow than Lifestraw Go
• Durability & material: 5/5 - BPA BPS free Tritan plastic
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: 380 liters | $30

The next best filter water bottle after the Grayl systems is made by Epic Water Filters in collaboration with Nalgene.

The Epic Nalgene OG Ultimate is a straw-style filter inserted into a durable wide-mouth Nalgene Tritan bottle. This makes it a lightweight and very durable water bottle filter that is an excellent choice for hiking and outdoor use.

The filtration system creates potable water from dirty water using its "Outdoor Adventure Filter", which gets rid of:

• 99.95% of viruses
• 99.9999% of bacteria
• All particulates including microplastics, sediment, and silt
• Most chemicals including chlorine (96.8%), fluoride (68%), nitrate (88.2%), and sulfate (91.8%)
• Heavy metals including lead, arsenic, copper, etc (88.4%-99.5% depending on the metal)

For a full list check out the performance data tests.

While the filter quality isn't quite as good as the one from Grayl, they do last for nearly twice as long as the UltraPress (I still think that Grayl is being too conservative). Additionally, the water quality is extremely good and tastes great, even when drinking from dirty water sources.

A potential downside to this system is that finding replacement filters can be tricky, especially while traveling abroad. Also, after using straw filters for a while, I've quickly come to dislike them since they are effectively useless for filtering water for cooking or sharing.

4. Lifestraw GO Bottle Filter

• Ease of use: 4/5 - Easy
• Quality of clean water: 4/5 - Great Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: 1.2 liters/minute
• Durability & material: 3/5 - BPA-FREE food-grade plastic
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: 4000 liters | $24.95

LifeStraw (Vestergaard) is a company that's been around since 2005 and is credited for inventing the filter straw during its work to eradicate the Guinea worm in developing nations.

The LifeStraw Go bottle is one of the most popular water filter bottles for travel as it's lightweight, affordable, and filters up to 4,000 liters before needing a replacement filter.

The LifeStraw works by inserting its patented straw filter inside the bottle, which when sucked, forces water through hollow fibers of 0.2 microns in size, meaning bacteria & parasites cannot pass, and only clean water gets through.

The microfilter effectively removes:

• 99.999999% of bacteria
• 99.999% of parasites/amoebas/cysts
• 99.999% of microplastics

In my experience, LifeStraw products have always kept me safe, but the resulting taste of the water is nowhere near as clean as what you will get with press filters like the Grayl. Again, these systems do not create clean water for storage, forcing travelers to carry dirty water, and only filtering it just before it hits the mouth.

However, if an affordable, long-lasting filter bottle that will likely do the job of filtering water for immediate drinking is what you're looking for, then this is a great option. Just keep in mind that the LifeStraw is not a purifying bottle and will not remove any waterborne viruses.

5. SurviMate Bottle Filter

• Ease of use: 4/5 - Easy
• Quality of clean water: 3/5 - Decent Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: 0.55 liters/minute
• Durability & material: 3/5 - BPA-free, food-grade Tritan Copolyester
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: 1500 liters | $18.99

I've included the next outdoor and travel water bottle filter in this roundup because it is currently one of the most popular filter bottles on Amazon, with thousands of 5-star reviews.

I'm going to be honest, I've never used this filter. So, all I can do is provide you with the specifications and a summary of reviews.

At first glance, the SurviMate Filtered Bottle seems like a cheaper copy of the better-tested LifeStraw Go Bottle. This bottle claims to use medical-grade PP cotton, antibacterial beads, medical-grade hollow fiber UF membranes, and a coconut shell-activated carbon filter to remove 99.99% of E. Coli, with not much more information available regarding heavy metals, viruses, or parasites (we can assume it does not filter these).

Again, the reviews of this filter are phenomenal, which must account for something. However, I am skeptical about its public reports, which come from independent Chinese labs (even then, from a questionable source). Furthermore, while I haven't seen a single review claiming that the filter resulted in illness, Amazon users have commented that the initial plastic odor and taste are quite bad.

In conclusion, this is a cheap water bottle filter that it seems tens of thousands of people are happy with. I personally would invest in a more reputable brand. But, if the price is the absolute top priority for you, it might be worth digging into.

6. LARQ PureVis

• Ease of use: 5/5 - Very Easy
• Quality of clean water: 3/5 - Decent Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: 1.5 liters/minute - 20 seconds for 17oz bottle
• Durability & material: 4/5 - polished stainless steel
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: N/A - replacement cap $69.95

LARQ became famous when it made headlines for asking the highest valuation in history on the popular TV show 'Shark Tank'. Today, LARQ produces one of the world's top UV-C bottles, the LARQ PureVis.

This unique UV-C light works by damaging 99% of bacteria, viruses, and mold inside the bottle, effectively making it "self-cleaning" and "purifying". It takes roughly 20 seconds to purify the water inside the 17 oz bottle, by bouncing the UV-C light around inside from its rechargeable lid.

This is an innovative water filtering solution that makes it one of the simplest and easy-to-use water bottle filters for travel. However, after testing out a LARQ bottle from a questionable water source (even filtering the water for 3-minutes on the adventure mode), I realized that while the water might be safe to drink, it tastes awful.

The reason is that this filter does not remove particulates, heavy metals, or silt that you will be sure to find in tap water across the developing world. As a result, the LARQ UV-C is a great filter for everyday use when filtering already clean drinking water, but I would not recommend it for outdoor use or as a travel bottle in countries with poor water quality.

7. Nalgene Bottle With Steripen Ultra

• Ease of use: 2/5 - A bit annoying
• Quality of clean water: 3/5 - Decent Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: 0.75 liters/minute
• Durability & material: 5/5 - BPA-free, food-grade Tritan Copolyester |
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: 50 liters per charge (8000L lifespan) | $269.95

The SteriPen is a popular UV-C light filter that is gaining popularity with the outdoor crowd. While quite expensive, the pen is tiny, and claims to filter up to 50 liters of water on a single charge!

Combining the SteriPen with the (so far) indestructible Nalgene 1.0L wide brim bottle is a popular option when filtering clean stream water in the outdoors. That's because this DIY water filtration solution is the lightest system on the list and does a good job of removing nearly all bacteria, viruses, and common pesky parasites like giardia (however, it won't remove the parasite's eggs, including tapeworms).

Again, as with all UV-C filters, you will have the issue of particulates and silt. It also involves a few extra steps, so this isn't the most convenient for everyday use. With that said, this system is more tailored toward hikers looking for that peace of mind when drinking fresh stream water and serves this purpose well.

8. Seychelle Advanced

• Ease of use: 4/5 - Easy
• Quality of clean water: 4/5 - Great Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: unknown - more resistance than LifeStraw Go
• Durability & material: 4/5 - EPA approved low-density #4 plastic
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: 378 liters | $28.95

Next up is another very popular water bottle filter, especially with the survival and prepper crowd.

The Seychelle Advanced Flip Top Bottle is an American-made filter system with very reputable filter testing reports. Similar to the LifeStraw Go, the Seychelle water bottle filters use a straw filter to purify water on demand. What makes the Advanced filter stand out is its ability to filter radiological contaminants– yep, you head that right!

Additionally, this system clears out 99.99% of

1. Odors
2. Cloudiness and silt
3. Chlorine and other toxic chemicals
4. Heavy metals
5. Bacteria
6. Viruses
7. Parasites

Furthermore, this bottle is very affordable and can be used with a convenient pump to filter larger amounts of water for storage, sharing, and outdoor cooking. The biggest gripe that I have with this system is that it is almost impossible to find a replacement filter when traveling. If this wasn't the case, I'd strongly consider it the number-one best water filter bottle for travel.

9. Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Squeeze Bottle Filter

• Ease of use: 5/5 - Very Easy
• Quality of clean water: 4/5 - Great Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: 2 liters/minute
• Durability & material: 3/5 - Hydrapak SoftFlaskTM made of TPU, 100% PVC, and BPA free
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: 1000 liters | $49.95 (replace entire bottle)

The BeFree by Katadyn is one of the most popular water bottle filters for backpacking and long-distance hiking. This largely comes down to its ease of use, packability, and ultra-lightweight design. At just 2.3 ounces, this empty flask and filter system rolls up into your backpack or pocket!

This system filters up to 2 liters per minute by squeezing a collapsable flask full of dirty water through the filter mouthpiece. This filter is very small but works extremely well considering the 0.1-micron hollow fiber microfilter eliminates protozoa (99.99%) and bacteria (99.9999%) from 1,000 liters of water before needing a replacement.

Additionally, the ability to "squeeze" water through the filter means that hikers and backpackers can fill up their water reservoirs, a much better solution than an on-demand filter straw. However, just like the LifeStraw and other stray-style filters, you will be carrying dirty water until you squeeze it into your mouth or another bottle.

While I would recommend this as the number one water bottle filter for ultralight hikers and backpackers, having a collapsable bottle for everyday use when traveling isn't very practical. Furthermore, the Katadyn BeFree does not filter out viruses, which means your water will not get 100% safe water from this filter in the majority of countries outside North America, Europe, and Oceana.

10. CrazyCap Pro

• Ease of use: 5/5 - Very Easy
• Quality of clean water: 3/5 - Decent Protection & Taste
• Flow rate: 0.5 liters/minute - 60 seconds for 17 oz
• Durability & material: 4/5 - Triple-vacuum insulated stainless steel
• Filter lifespan & cost of replacement: N/A | N/A

The final water bottle filter on this list is another UV-C bottle offering similar performance to the LARQ PureVis bottle at a cheaper price point. Again, the CrazyCap Pro bottle comes with all the drawbacks and caveats you'll get with any UV light filter bottle. But, it could be a better pick for those who don't need to filter extremely dirty water.

The bottle is also very well-designed and provides triple stainless steel insulation to keep your water cold for up to 12 hours. A unique feature of the CrazyCap is that in addition to the standard bottle, the cap is designed to fit on most cola-sized plastic bottles.

Quick Answer: Here are the Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking & Travel

Not in the mood to read through the pros and cons for all of the best camera backpacks?

Here is the quick answer.

The best camera backpack overall for travel and landscape photographers serious about their craft and their gear is the new F-Stop Tilopa DuraDiamond 50L backpack. Read on for an honest breakdown of why I use this camera backpack every day.

10 more great photo backpacks include:

• Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II
• Thule Covert Camera Backpack
• Bagsmart Camera Backpack
• Burton F-Stop 28L
• LowePro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW
• WANDRD FERNWEH Backpacking Bag
• Atlas Packs Adventure Pack
• Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L
• Shimoda Action X30

Below I'll go into more detail about each pack, giving reasons for why I would recommend them for hiking and adventure shoots.

Breakdown: The 11 Best Travel & Hiking Backpacks for Photography

Next, here is a detailed breakdown of the best camera bags for hiking, travel, and adventure.

Below I've listed 11 camera backpacks and included specifications, pros, cons, and some reasoning for why I've included them in this roundup.

1. Best Overall: F-Stop Tilopa DuraDiamond Pack

• Pack volume: 50 liters
• Weight: 4.2 lb | 1.9 kg
• Size: 24.5 x 13.7 x 11.1 in | 62.3 x 34.8 x 24.4 cm

Right off the bat, you already know that I consider the new F-Stop Tilopa DuraDiamond 50L adventure backpack to be the best camera bag on the market.

F-Stop Gear is known for top-of-the-range camera storage systems for harsh backcountry adventurers. Their line of camera bags features removable camera inserts, or ICUs, allowing for a completely modular storage solution for your gear.

The original Tilopa is an adventure camera backpack that I have personally used and severely abused in the past. With only a few minor opportunities for improvement, the new DuraDiamond version includes some subtle yet appreciated upgrades that really make this the best hiking camera pack on the market.

Top Features

Here are a few stand-out qualities that make this pack so great. For owners of the original Tilopa, I've highlighted the new features.

• Proprietary DuraDiamond material is insanely durable, lightweight and includes excellent water repelling coating (new feature)
• Intuitive easy access integrated pocket zippers enabling "pockets within pockets" for flexible organization (new feature)
• Very comfortable, wide, and thick algae-based shoulder straps (new feature)
• Aluminum buckles and adjustment hardware (new feature)
• Welded water-resistant zippers (new feature)
• Wide back panel access to all gear, including a padded 16-inch laptop compartment(new feature)
• 50L storage capacity is perfect for DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras including long telephotos, drones, tripods, and accessories, with plenty of pockets and enough room for personal items & hiking essentials
• Solid aluminum frame and solid waist straps for comfort when carrying gear-heavy setups on multi-day treks

What's Lacking?

Truthfully, there really is little to gripe about with this camera backpack. However, the F-stop has again chosen not to include a water bottle holder on the side of the pack, which I liked on their older LOKA bag. This does seem like a downside at first. However, this decision was intentional in order to create more versatile side pockets, which are already a huge improvement over the original Tilopa. Furthermore, there is an integrated water bladder pocket with convenient hose routing, which is a better way to carry water anyway.

Additionally, for those who use water bottle filters, it's easy to clip one on easily using a carabiner and a Gatekeeper strap.

The second initial downside is that the integrated side-compression straps have been removed on the DuraDiamond version.

The result is a more refined stock backpack. However, I find these compression straps essential to make the backpack smaller for use as an in-flight carry-on bag. This is quickly resolved by using F-stop's Gatekeeper Straps mounted onto the integrated strapping points.

While photographers will have to pay extra for these straps, the fact that they are removable could actually be viewed as an improvement as it provides more flexibility in external pack configuration. Either way, I keep two on the side for extra compression potential at all times.

The Verdict

The Tilopa from F-Stop's Mountain Series is my number one pick for the best camera backpack for both travel and hiking, including long trips in the backcountry and professional photographers working on demanding expeditions.

Keep in mind that the F-Stop Tilopa is quite a substantial investment and is by far not the cheapest camera backpack on the market. However, with an included 20-year warranty, this is the camera backpack that you buy once and use for life.

2. Peak Design Travel Backpack

• Pack volume: 30 liters
• Weight: 3.9 lb | 1.8 kg
• Size: 19.1 x 13. x 10.6 in | 48.5 x 33 x 27 cm

The Peak Design Travel Backpack is another excellent and versatile camera backpack from Peak Design, the maker of one of my all-time favorite photography accessories, the Peak Design Capture Clip, as well as one of the best lightweight travel tripods on the market.

I regularly use many of Peak Design's innovating products and have personally tested out their highly acclaimed Travel Backpack (45L), as well as their more popular Everyday Backpack. Of the two, the Travel Backpack is more suitable for hiking, with a large main compartment and straps comfortable enough to carry heavy gear on any day hike.

Top Features

Top features of Peak Design's Travel Backpack include:

• International carry-on approved size
• Stowable shoulder & waist straps great for airline travel
• Large main compartment with tear access, dual side access, and top access
• Comfortable enough to take on day hikes and versatile enough for city shoots
• 45L is a good size to store plenty of camera equipment including a DSLR camera, drone, large lenses, and even a 16-inch Macbook Pro
• Solid bottom liner and weatherproof, recycled 400D nylon canvas
• Removable camera units for modular storage

What's Lacking?

While Peak Design's offering is an excellent, all-round travel photography backpack, there are a few things that might not make it the best camera backpack for hiking long distances or over several days.

Firstly, Peak Design has done a good job of making this camera backpack as versatile as possible for travel. However, this has resulted in some not-so-comfortable traps that can really dig in when carrying big loads. Honestly, I would have liked to see more attention paid to the shoulder and waist straps for added comfort rather than the ability to stow them.

Furthermore, while the Travel Backpack undeniably looks great, it does lack some organizational features present on other backpacks. This includes a lack of many pockets or organizational zippers inside the backpack. The bag is also quite heavy considering there are not many attachment points or pockets.

Also, this backpack is one of the most expensive in this gear roundup, which might discourage some people from purchasing it. However, Peak Design offers a lifetime warranty, making your investment a safe one.

The Verdict

The Peak Design Travel Backpack is one of the best and most versatile camera packs on the market. This is a premium backpack that photographers can use to carry their gear in a wide range of cases, from day hikes to overnight trips or week-long vacations.

However, the lack of a solid frame and rather thin straps would discourage professional photographers looking for a premium hiking backpack to carry their camera equipment in tough alpine or backcountry conditions.

3. Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II

• Pack volume: 25 liters
• Weight: 6.3 lb | 2.8 kg
• Size: 20.4 x 14.2 x 8.7 in | 52 x 36 x 22 cm

LowePro is one of the world's top photography brands, offering a wide range of high-quality storage solutions for everything from heavy gripped DSLR camera rigs to lightweight electronics organizers for hard drives and accessories.

Their most popular backpack is the LowePro Protactic BP 450 AW II. You'll see this bag advertised everywhere, with many great photographers using it as their go-to camera backpack for hiking and travel photography.

Top Features

This is a top-of-the-line backpack made from a serious photography equipment manufacturer. Some of the things I love about LowePro's Protactic backpack include:

• Great hard top with turret access
• Four convenient access points (sides, back, and top) enables photographers to access their gear quickly
• Comes with a rain cover
• Zippable camera compartment capable of housing up to 15-inch laptops
• Nice organizational features with zippers inside the backpack
• Compatible with many accessories and add-ons using LowePro's SlipLock mounts
• Minimal design doesn't stand out too much at airports

What's Lacking?

I used the original version of this pack for quite some time and while I did harbor some gripes with it, it seems that LowePro really has addressed most of this in their new version.

However, one thing in particular that I wish they would have addressed is the thin shoulder straps and waistband. I have tested this new backpack with a full-load of gear and I couldn't imagine hiking any more than a few days with it on.

Furthermore, the pack is very heavy considering LowePro only offers 25L of internal storage at over 2.8 kg for the base backpack. As a comparison, the F-Stop Tilopa at a similar pricepoint offers double the storage at a lower base weight (roughly equally weighted after adding the ICU).

Lastly, I wish that LowePro would upgrade the velcro dividers that come with this backpack. While they do offer some unique solutions including dividers with pockets for lens filters, they all seem to come unstuck easily and just feel flimsy after a few weeks of use.

The Verdict

If you're looking for a great, all-around camera backpack that you can take on short trips or use to transport your equipment between jobs, then the ProTactic BP 450 AW II from LowePro is an excellent option. However, the thin straps and low-quality velcro inserts are disappointing to see in such an expensive bag.

4. Thule Covert Camera Backpack

• Pack volume: 32 liters
• Weight: 4.71 lb | 2.1 kg
• Size: 20.5 x 14.2 x 9.1 in | 52.1 x 36.1 x 23.1 cm

Swedish company Thule makes excellent, high-quality electronics and photography bags. Their premiere backpack is the everyday Thule Covert 32L, which includes a unique, removable camera insert that doubles as a small sling bag.

Top Features

In my opinion, the Thule Covert is one of the most beautiful-looking backpacks. Apart from the aesthetics, there are some practical features that have landed this bag a spot on this list:

• Innovative, removable camera insert can be taken out and used as a sling bag
• Roll-up top for extra storage for personal items
• Plenty of pockets with quick access pockets on the sides
• Adjustable and transformable from a convenient hiking day bag or camera backpack
• Laptop storage on the back panel up to 16" MacBook Pro
• Expandable side pocket for storing tripod or large water bottle
• Magnetic front pocket zips
• Zip-up inner divider to separate personal and photography items
• Overall great accessory storage compartments throughout the bag

What's Lacking

There are many things to love about this backpack. However, similarly to LowePro's Protactic and Peak Design's offerings, the Thule Covert's thin straps just don't cut it when it comes to long-distance hiking.

Additionally, while the removable camera storage unit is an innovative and well-thought-out feature, the small size means you can't store more than a DSLR camera and lens with maybe some small accessories. For professional photographers, this is nowhere near enough storage space.

The Verdict

After speaking to other professional photographers, not many had even heard about the Thule Covert. This surprised me since it really is a great backpack, but I have to be honest when I say that I haven't seen it in the wild too much either.

Regardless, its innovative storage solution, attractive design, and abundance of organizational features make this a great pick for many travel photographers.

In fact, I believe this is a better option than the Peak Design Travel and even the LowePro Protactic for most travelers, especially those carrying a minimal gear setup. However, pros and serious backcountry photographers with multiple lenses might want to give this one a swipe.

5. Bagsmart Camera Backpack

• Pack volume: 20 Liters
• Weight: 3.5 lb | 1.6 kg
• Size: 15.7 x 11.8 x 7.5 in | 39.9 x 30 x 19.1 cm

The BagSmart DSLR Camera Backpack is by far one of the most popular camera backpacks on Amazon. That's because you can pick up this stylish backpack, featuring a 15-inch laptop compartment, customizable velcro camera storage unit, and several accessory pockets for less than $50 delivered.

Top Features

Photographers looking for the most affordable camera storage solution for their short hikes will love this pack. Here are a few standout features.

• 15-inch laptop compartment
• Well-built backpack with thousands of 5-star reviews for under $50
• Quick access side pockets and expandable top pocket for personal items and clothing
• Thicker back padding than some of the premium camera backpacks with decently thick shoulder straps
• Water bottle holder for tripod or bottle
• Comes in several colors

What's Lacking

Professional photographers looking for the absolute best travel camera backpack or one for the outdoors will certainly miss things like welded zippers and seams, a waist strap, and customizable attachment points.

Furthermore, while this bag has held up on the Amazon review test, BagSmart is still not a premium brand and therefore quality and replacements are questionable.

The Verdict

Right off the bat, you can't expect this backpack to serve as a professional bag capable of transporting your gear for hundreds of miles in the backcountry. However, that's not what BagSmart has set out to create.

While this bag lacks premium features it's still a great hiking camera backpack for beginner photographers and hobbyists– or those who spent all their money on the newest mirrorless lenses.

7. LowePro Flipside Trek BP 450 AW

• Pack volume: 40 liters
• Weight: 3.7 lb | 1.7 kg
• Size: 54 x 31 x 24 cm

While LowePro's Protactic is a great backpack, its straps and fit are not exactly ideal for long hikes and outdoor photography shoots. That's why LowePro released the Flipside Trek BP 450 AW, an excellent 40-liter camera backpack designed for hiking and outdoor photography.

Top Features

Things that I love about this backpack include:

• Unique, convenient front access zipper
• Solid design and zipper layout allows photographers to access their gear by hanging the bag in front of them using the waist straps
• Fits dual camera bodies and extra lenses, with enough space for personal items and adventure equipment
• Adjustable chest straps and padded shoulder straps comfortable for long trips
• Plenty of zippers and included water bottle/tripod holder
• Strapping points and compression straps built-in

What's Lacking

Similarly to Burton's F-stop backpack, the LowePro Flipside Trek also lacks a dedicated laptop compartment. I think this is a huge design flaw that limits the bag as it renders it useless for traveling photographers– often the guys and girls who work in outdoor conditions.

Furthermore, another flaw in the Flipside Trek is that it is slightly long, with limited adjustment positions for those under 5' 7".

The Verdict

Photographers who only need a backpack for hiking will love this pack. It offers everything you're looking for in a stylish and feature-rich design. It's also made by one of the world's best camera backpack manufacturers.

However, again, the deal breaker for me is the lack of a laptop compartment. F-Stop's Tilopa is a much better option or traveling photographers and digital nomads who need rugged protection for their kit and remote office gear.

8. WANDRD FERNWEH Backpacking Bag (M/L)

• Pack volume: 50 liters
• Weight: 5 lb | 2.3 kg
• Size: 26 x 13.8 x 9.5 in | 66 x 35 x 24.1 cm

Next up on this roundup of the best camera backpacks for hiking and adventure is the WANDRD FERNWEH backpacking bag. In terms of features, this is the closest competitor to my top pick, the F-Stop Tilopa 50L.

Top Features

This bag is one of my favorites on the market. After the wild success of the WANDRD PRVKE, they have finally made a backpack more suitable for outdoor photographers. Top features include:

• Intuitive "bucket" is a removable separator in the main compartment
• Dedicated water bladder in the front
• Looks absolutely amazing
• Excellent side pocket for storing drink bottles or tripods, with main camera cube side-access on the other side
• Amazingly comfortable mount with great adjustment features
• Waterproof Tarpaulin and 1680D Ballistic Nylon construction is bomb-proof

What's Lacking

In all honesty, there's very little lacking when it comes to features on this bag. As is the case with the Tilopa, I would have liked to see a water bottle holder on the side, but WANDRD instead put a large and more versatile expandable pocket there that essentially does the same job.

While this bag looks fantastic, there are only two color options, which might not be great for alpine professionals looking for a high-visibility backpack.

The Verdict

The WANDRD FERNWEH is an amazing backpack that is very comfortable. In terms of features, it's almost identical to the F-Stop Tilopa, while offering additional side-access capability.

Comparing the two backpacks fully loaded, I still prefer the Tilopa as it is more comfortable, but it's a close game. The FERNWEH is a top-of-the-line backpack for hiking photographers and while I've only tried it on briefly, I have been told that the durability is superb.

9. Atlas Packs Adventure Pack

• Pack volume: 60 liters
• Weight: 6lb+ | 2.8 kg
• Size: 23 x 11.3 x 9 in | 58.5 x 28. x 23 cm

Coming in next is the AtlasPacks Adventure Pack, a great backpack for hiking, trekking, mountaineering, or backcountry adventures. This is a relatively new brand but has really stirred up the market with its custom-fit design.

Top Features

New brands need to innovate to stand out. That's exactly what AtlasPacks has done by adding these features:

• Customizable torso size and hip belt when purchasing
• Unique Origami folding internal pocket to adjust internal camera storage size
• Water bottle pocket on the side
• Adjustable sternum strap
• New version has added MOLLE attachments on the lid
• Traditional trekking backpack opening lid with compression straps
• Fits up to a 17" Laptop
• 60L maximum capacity and compressible to 35L

What's Lacking

While I'm yet to personally test this one on an expedition or long hike, I'm a huge fan of this backpack after testing it in-store and loading it with gear. One thing I don't like right off the bat is the weight. While the backpack looks light, it is by far the heaviest on this list.

Furthermore, there is no side-access compartment, which limits photographers from quickly swapping gear without taking the backpack off.

Furthermore, for an adventure-minded backpack, I'd like to see companies include weather-proof material and welded zippers right off the bat, especially when we are paying $500 for a bag.

The Verdict

The Atlas Adventure Backpack is a great backpack for hiking photographers. If fit and comfort are a priority, backpacks don't come as comfortable as this customizable fit. I'd say that this bag is definitely up there with the WANDRD FERNWEH and new F-Stop Tilopa as the three best camera backpacks for hiking and adventure.

Choosing between the three will likely come down to price and availability.

10. Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L

• Pack volume: 35L - 42L
• Weight: 5.75 lb | 2.6 kg
• Size: 22 x 13.5 x 9 in | 55.9 x 34.3 x 22.9 cm

As a long-term traveler, I have a soft spot for Nomatic products. They make high-quality, versatile storage solutions that really last a lifetime. In their newest collaboration with Peter McKinnon, they've taken their travel expertise into the world of photography.

Top Features

Most photographers and videographers have tuned into one of Peter's videos at least once. His gear expertise is unquestionable. So, you'd expect a collaboration with one of the world's best travel bag brands to result in some great features like:

• Expandable storage turns this 35L backpack into a 42L one
• Durable and waterproof material
• Plenty of organizational pockets in a minimal design
• Side tripod or drink bottle pocket
• Back panel completely opens up (can be a negative also)
• Very attractive design with hard, durable, and innovative velcro dividers

What's Lacking?

Firstly, the product I tried on didn't have an attached waist strap. I was told that it does include one, but couldn't find this option online either. Secondly, the straps are quite thin, and if you load this backpack up completely, you will struggle wearing it for hours on the trail.

Lastly, access to the primary compartment requires the Nomatic McKinnon's back panel to open up completely. This exposes all of your other gear to the elements and increases the risk of dropping or losing something.

The Verdict

This is arguably one of the best camera backpacks for travel available on the market today. However, Nomatic promotes this backpack for adventures, and I believe there are several design aspects that limit this backpack for serious outdoor use.

11. Shimoda Action X30

• Pack volume: 30 liters (expandable to 37L)
• Weight: 3.7 lb | 1.7 kg
• Size: 19.7 x 11.8 x 6.3 | 50 x 30 x 16 cm

Last up on this roundup is the Shimoda Action X30. Shimoda is a brand dedicated to creating long-lasting and top-performing mountain photography backpacks for professionals. The X30 series is one of their best-selling backpacks, and a top pick for the best lightweight hiking backpacks for photography.

Top Features

There's a lot to love about Shimoda's backpacks. Here's a quick summary:

• Welded seams, zippers, and waterproof outer material is excellent for rough-weather jobs
• Compressable with intuitive compression straps and roll-top
• Side-access pockets for quick camera access
• Plenty of extra pockets for accessories and miscellaneous items
• Lightweight and comfortable for short hikes or on long trips with ultralight equipment

What's Lacking

Honestly, there really isn't much lacking in this backpack besides its size. At 37L fully expanded, this bag is slightly too small for long-distance or multi-day hikes.

Personally, I'm not a huge fan of the roll-up top. While I can see the benefits, I have seen this backpack look very top-heavy when storing extra gear, water, or bulky items in the top compartment.

The Verdict

At almost half the price of F-Stop backpacks, Shimoda Designs does a great job of matching them in terms of quality and features. If you're looking for a smaller backpack, the X30 is one of the top bags on the market for photographers who need their gear protected in harsh conditions.

Bonus: Use Your Hiking Backpack With the LowePro GearUP Creator Box

While there are so many great purpose-built hiking camera bags, wouldn't it be great if you could just use your comfortable hiking or trekking backpack instead? Well, this is possible, thanks to Lowepro's line of Creator Boxes.

These soft-padded camera storage boxes are similar to other padded inserts like the ICUs from F-Stop but offer additional functionality including front zippers, internal zip compartments, and convenient "Quick Door" access.

These additional storage features make the Creator Box a good option for not only storing cameras and lenses, but also essential accessories like filters, shotgun microphones, and SD cards.

Additionally, the fully-opening zipper is great, since you can use them with a top-opening trekking bag to access your gear quickly either from within the backpack or as a quick method of transporting your camera gear.

Quick Answer: Here are the Best External SSDs for Photography

Chasing delivery deadlines? After personally testing over 10 of the most recommended solid-state drives on the market, here are the 4 best SSDs for photographers.

Fastest portable SSD: Sandisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD V2

Highest capacity SSD: OWC Envoy Pro EX (up to 8.0TB)

Most Durable SSD: LaCie Rugged SSD

Most portable SSD: Kingston XS2000

Read on for a complete breakdown, including each drive's specifications and thorough reasonings for why I have selected these 4 portable hard drives for photographers.

Speed: Fastest SSD For Blazing Photo Imports, Editing, & Exports

When portable SSDs first entered the market, one of the most noticeable advantages was considerably faster transfer speeds than what was capable on traditional hard drives

But how does this speed increase translate to real-life benefits for photographers?

When choosing the fastest drive for photography purposes, there are two specifications that you will need to consider (both measured in megabytes per second (MB/s).

• Read speeds - how long it takes to open, edit, or move an image or video from your SSD.
• Write speeds - how long it takes to move images or videos onto your SSD.

Most of the portable SSDs on the market today have a read/write speed of at least 500MB/s, which is more than fast enough for storing a Lightroom library or for the temporary storage of a client's photos.

However, if you're importing a lot of files, doing some video editing, or previewing high-resolution RAW images on your mobile devices, the faster the SSD drive, the smoother the process will be.

When comparing disk speeds, photographers should know the difference between sequential read & random read (s read & r read, or s write & r write). When comparing data transfer speeds in this SSD roundup, I have prioritized sequential read and write as this is how the device reads and writes large files from the drive– for example importing RAW files from your SD Card. On the other hand, random write and read speeds refer to small files scattered throughout the storage device and is more applicable to boot drives storing things like your System OS.

Benchmarking: SSD Drive Speeds

Below are the average write and read speeds after benchmarking all four SSDs using Blackmagic's Disk Speed tool on the highest stress settings. All drives were newly formatted using APFS (Apple File System) on the same USB C port using the supplied cable.

Sandisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD (V2)

Is speed your number one priority when searching for an external SSD for photography? I benchmarked over 10 different portable SSDs using BlackMagic's Disk Speed tool on macOS. And, in terms of objective speed results, the Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD (PRO V2) is the fastest SSD of the lot at constant 980+ MB/s write and 870+MB/s read speeds on my Macbook Pro M1 Pro 2021.

This is Sandisks' flagship portable SSD drive. This premium SSD drive features an IP55-rated durable body housing a blazing fast NVMe drive capable of 2000MB/s read and write speeds (if your computer has USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support). While a little larger than some of the other drives on the market, including the cheaper SanDisk Extreme line, its thin form factor still makes it very portable.

In real-world tests over the past few weeks, I have found that significant imports move extremely quickly. Furthermore, when connected to my 2021 Macbook Pro M1 Pro's USB Type-c, editing large 4K video projects directly off of this drive is as smooth as any internal SSD in a desktop computer.

Capacity: Best High-Capacity SSD For Large Photography Libraries

Just a few years ago, portable SSDs lagged significantly behind HDDs when it came to maximum storage capacity. However, solid-state technology has improved dramatically in the past few years, with portable SSD drives now offering up to 8.0TB and even 16.0TB of pocketable storage space.

This revolutionizes the workflow for photographers and videographers on the go. We can now store our entire Lightroom library and even work on large projects with up to 12k RAW video files– directly from a portable drive hooked up to our laptops with a USB Type-C cable.

Although a high-capacity external solid state drive is usually quite expensive, these options can be much cheaper than paying for large capacity internal drives on a Macbook or other laptops.

SSD Capacity Options

Below are the available storage sizes for each drive reviewed.

OWC Envoy Pro Ex External NVMe M.2 SSD

If it's high capacity storage you're after, you cannot beat the OWC Envoy Pro EX. OWC is a very reputable American electronics manufacturer that's been around since the late 1980s. While OWC specializes in products for mac systems, their Envoy Pro EX external thunderbolt drive is compatible with any device sporting USB 3.1 Gen 1, Thunderbolt 3, or USB 3.1 Gen 2 technology.

This portable SSD is an intuitive solution for photographers, since the Envoy Pro EX is simply a high-quality, durable USB-C enclosure, with an NVMe M.2 SSD inside. The cases allow for complete customization, and users can even install their own M.2 drives as long as it is a 2280 form factor.

However, OWC also sells high-capacity M.2 drives already installed, with storage sizes of up to 8.0TB and speeds of up to 980MB/s. These speeds held up in my speed benchmarking tests.

I now personally use the OWC Envoy Pro EX as a high-capacity and high-speed storage solution for my Lightroom library, allowing me to save tonnes of space on my Macbook Pro.

Durability: Best Rugged SSD for Landscape & Outdoor Photography

We've all been there before. A corrupted hard drive is one of the most stressful experiences a photographer or videographer can endure.

Thankfully, the lack of moving parts in SSDs makes for a much more durable storage solution than a traditional hard disk drive. While still not completely impervious to failure, SSDs can withstand much more abuse than their spinning disk counterparts.

However, not all SSDs are created equal. Some photographers, including myself, take ruggedness and durability seriously when trying to narrow down the best SSD drives.

Some durability factors you'll want to consider in an SSD are:

• IP Rating (Ingress Protection) - defines how well your drive seals out solids (dust) and liquids (water resistance).
• Build quality - is the drive built with high-quality materials that won't break under pressure?
• Ruggedness - is the drive built with a protective rubber case?

So, when making a decision, consider where you will be using the drive, whether it will be stowed in your camera backpack on long shoots in the outdoors, or whether you will be carrying it day-to-day.

LaCie Rugged SSD

If you work in the photography space, then you'll likely be aware of LaCie drives. I've been using LaCie's rugged line of external HDDs for years. So, when they released a smaller, more durable solid state drive, I was eager to test it out.

The LaCie Rugged SSD is by far the most durable SSD for photography. Although I'm reluctant to test their claim, LaCie states that these drives will withstand 3-meter drops and two-tonne car crush resistance! On top of that, LaCie also offers a 5-year Rescue Data Recovery service, which I'm yet to try out but has received a good wrap online.

Inside this impressive casing is a Seagate FireCuda NVMe SSD utilizing USB 3.1 Gen 2 throughput at claimed 1,050 MB/s maximum speeds.

I use LaCie's drives to store and deliver projects to clients since I know that the data will be safe.

Portability: Lightest & Most Portable External SSD

SSDs by their very nature are compact storage solutions that are hardly noticed in a laptop bag or camera backpack.

However, photographers know that gear quickly adds up in both weight and size. So, from CF Express card readers to tripods, shaving a few grams off our gear where we can goes a long way, especially for travel photographers and those always on the go.

Comparison: Size & Weight

Below is a table comparing the size and weights of each SSD in their 1TB option.

Kingston XS2000

So far in this roundup of the best SSDs for photography, we've seen excellent portable drives for a range of applications. However, none of these drives are as small, lightweight, or compact as the Kingston XS2000.

At not much larger than a traditional thumb drive, Kingston is able to deliver storage of up to 2.0TB! These portable SSDs weigh less than 29 grams (around 1 ounce) and are practically unnoticeable, even when in your pocket. The included silicone casing also adds a layer of drop protection that feels and looks great.

The speeds on this drive are also very impressive, with a maximum write speed of 2,000MB/s (again, only with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support). During my speed tests, the sequential write and reads constantly held up above 800-900 MB/s, even with the highest stress settings.

This is now my go-to drive when out on expeditions or when I need to offload or backup files without adding to my pack weight.

Why Would You Want to Start a Travel Blog?

Before we get started, it's important to evaluate whether or not travel blogging is for you. If you asked most people why they'd want to start a travel blog, 9 times out of 10, you'll get a response back that they want to travel full-time while making money.

It's the ideal lifestyle for so many. While setting up a travel blog is quite easy, building a sustainable travel blogging lifestyle takes a lot of work. In fact, there are loads of other ways to make money on the road. My partner Haylea and I traveled full-time for two years making money off our laptop by working remote jobs before I even hit publish on We Seek Travel.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that if earning money while traveling is the only goal and you don't really have a passion for creating or writing, then you have a high chance of failing.

That's because doing this right takes a lot of time, energy, and passion for little to no initial reward.

Do Travel Bloggers Make Money?

That's the first thing people usually ask me. Do you make money by writing travel blogs?

The short answer is yes, the long answer is that it takes a lot of time and work to start seeing your first dollar come through.

Blogging in general is a way to build yourself a passive income. This means you will put in the work today for free in order to earn money in the future. The great part about this is that you can go off-grid for a month if you like and still earn money through the work you have put in a year or even a decade before.

For example, I spent three weeks without touching my laptop while on the Three Passes Trek in the Himalayas and earned a living wage at the same time. The tough part about this is that you might spend hundreds of hours and not see a single dollar for months (or years) down the track.

Recent statistics show that 81% of all blogs created never earned their first $100. Furthermore, only 5% of all bloggers earn a full-time salary from blogging. These statistics account for all blogs. Travel blogs are among the most saturated on the internet. And, therefore standing out in the crowd is even more difficult.

But, that's not to say it's impossible.

I'm among several travel bloggers who make a six-figure, passive wage from doing what I love, and running this blog is now my full-time job. I think it's safe to say this was one of the best decisions I've ever made.

However, to get to this stage I dedicated several hundred hours of blog post writing, blog theme customizing, page speed optimizing, and social sharing– all before I saw my first passive dollar roll in.

I did this because I was passionate about what I was creating and, if I could be paid for it, that would be a bonus, not a priority.

Actually, I was out there traveling and taking photos years before I even considered starting a travel blog. Here's a shot of Haylea and me hitchhiking in Sri Lanka. Even though we don't live off $35 USD per day anymore, we still mostly stick to raw, shoestring travel as a preference.

I know it's a cliche. But, the universe rewards passion and dedication. If you believe in something and you are prepared to put in the hard work, you will be rewarded. If you're interested to learn how to make money from travel blogging, I've included a detailed section on this below.

Tip: Top-Earning Affiliate Networks For Travel Bloggers

Affiliate marketing is one of the best ways to make money from travel blogging. Here are my top-earning partners (you'll want to bookmark them).

• SafetyWing - affordable insurance for nomads
• ShareASale - tonnes of great affiliate programs in one place
• TravelPayouts - earn on referrals from programs like Booking.com, GetYourGuide, and RentalCars in one place

More info below...

How To Start a Travel Blog - A Step By Step Guide

Congratulations, you've gotten through that intense disclaimer. If you're still determined to start a travel blog, then that's absolutely awesome. Let's get it.

Below is a quick summary of the simple steps required to kick-start your travel blog.

1. Pick a blog name and register it on all social platforms
2. Purchase a domain name
3. Set up your hosting
4. Install a theme and plugins
5. Start creating content
6. Publish your travel blog
7. Optimize your travel blog for search engines (Google)

I'll go into detail about the best way to do this below. First, here's step 1.

Blogging Toolkit: 5 Things You'll Need to Start a Travel Blog

This is a very in-depth guide with a lot of recommended resources. If you want to make money from your travel blog, here's what you need.

1. A domain name from Namecheap
2. Hosting: Managed WordPress Hosting by BigScoots
3. Theme: Kadence (free) or Trellis (premium)
4. SEO tool: RANKIQ
5. Plugin: Yoast SEO

3. Set Up Your Hosting

The next step in this travel blog beginner guide is to set up your hosting.

Don't worry it's not as complicated or scary as it sounds. Think of building a travel blog like building a house.

The first step is to get an empty block of land with an address. Well, you've already got that now, it's your domain name.

Next, you're going to have to build your structural foundations. This is your hosting (also referred to as your server).

Types of Web Hosting For Travel Bloggers

Hosting providers run servers, where all of your data is stored and delivered to the internet, accessible via your specific domain name (address).

The thing is, all hosting servers aren't built equally. Since the success of a travel blog relies heavily on receiving organic traffic from search engines like Google, you'll want your server as fast as possible. That's because Google is trying to build a faster internet, and will therefore recommend websites that are faster thanks to its Core Web Vitals updates.

In short, fast blogs show up more on google than slower ones. You also want a reliable server with high up-time (99%+), so your blog is always available to readers.

So, start off right. Save yourself time and money by choosing wisely. There are four types of web hosting, which I'll cover in more detail below.

1. Shared Hosting
2. Managed WordPress Hosting
3. Cloud Hosting
4. Dedicated Hosting

2023 Update: The quick answer is that I use BigScoots managed WordPress hosting because they handle all the technical aspects for me. I recently changed over from Cloudways since their support was not as strong when you need it. If you're serious about starting a killer blog in 2023, this is the hosting you want and isn't too expensive.

Below is a good summary for fast, affordable hosts to get your new travel blog on its feet quicker.

1. Shared Hosting

Shared hosting is the best for small travel blogs and websites with low traffic.

Pros: The cheapest option is usually $2.50 - $15 per month.

Cons: Your website is shared with up to 50 other websites on a single server, which means your website will be slower and also impacted by spikes in traffic on other websites that live on the same server as yours.

The best shared hosting plans are offered by companies like Siteground, Bluehost and A2 hosting.

2. Managed WordPress Hosting - the best option for new bloggers

WordPress hosting is a hosting service that specializes in WordPress blogs. Their system is set up to cater to WordPress websites and all of the technical aspects of installing and managing your WordPress installation are done by the hosting provider.

Pros: easiest to set up, costs only $5 - $40 per month.

Cons: Most of them are on "shared servers" meaning big spikes in traffic from other sites will impact the performance of your site as well.

I used Siteground managed WordPress hosting when I started out. However, since then I've swapped to BigScoots hosting, which is by far the best WordPress hosting you can find these days.

3. Cloud Hosting

Cloud hosting allows you to have your own website server on the cloud.

Pros: This is much faster than shared hosting and you won't need to worry about having other websites slowing down your performance. Also easy to scale as your new travel blog grows and typically allows you to run multiple websites on your own cloud server.

Cons: pricier, ranging from $10-$1000 per month. Also, is more difficult to set up, and requires some server management knowledge.

If you're starting a travel blog and you're willing to learn a little bit of the basics when it comes to servers, a good option is managed WordPress cloud hosting by Cloudways.

4. Dedicated Hosting

Dedicated hosting means you will have your own physical server somewhere in a physical location.

Pros: This offers the best performance and control.

Cons: Pricey, usually $100+ per month and overkill for most travel blogs.

If you're starting a new travel blog, you won't need dedicated hosting. Look at managed WordPress hosting or cloud hosting instead.

Choosing Web Hosting For Your New Travel Blog

If you're just starting out as a travel blogger, I recommend either shared managed WordPress hosting with Siteground for $4.99 a month. Or, if you're serious about your travel blogging journey, then the BigScoots Real Managed Hosting plan is a bit pricier but hands-down a better experience.

Tip: You can always start off on a cheap hosting plan and update to a more rigid one later down the track once you begin generating traffic. Most hosting providers will transfer your site for free.

Link Your Domain Name To Your New Hosting

Alright, now we're really getting the ball rolling on starting this new travel blog. You've got yourself an address (domain name) and your structural foundations (hosting)– let's bring them together!

What you want to do is go to NameCheap (or your domain registrar if you chose another one) and go to DNS settings. This is found in your Account Dashboard area under your Domain List tab on the left. Click "manage" on your domain name.

Scroll down to "NameServers" and select Namecheap Basic DNS. Now, your hosting plan will have provided you with the nameservers to use here. Otherwise, you'll find it in your dashboard section when you log into your hosting plan.

Enter the nameservers provided by your hosting plan and click save. Basically, this has told everyone visiting "yourtravelblog.com" to load the data on your web hosting server. This process can take a few hours to complete, so just be patient.

Don't Forget to Enable Your SSL Certificate (If Necessary)

Monetizing Your Blog - How to Make Money From a Travel Blog

Remember when I said that you won't start making money straight away?

Well, it's true. In saying that, if you plan to make a living from your blog as I do, there are a few things you can focus on from day one to set you up for monetization.

There are many different ways to make money from travel blogging. The top three are:

• Joining an affiliate program
• Display advertising
• Indirect income

Below I'll go into a bit more detail on each of these so that you can implement these strategies on your own travel blog.

Affiliate Marketing With Travel Blogging - Passive Income

Basically, bloggers can partner with travel companies that they use themselves.

Join up for their affiliate programs and start recommending things like the accommodation you stay in and tours and experiences you go on. If a visitor clicks one of those links and ends up booking or making an order, you'll get a small commission of the sale. It's a win-win because it also doesn't cost anything for the visitor, they pay the same as if they were going to visit the website directly.

It's really easy to set up but you'll want to have some good-quality content before you apply to become a partner.

My most successful affiliate partners are:

• TravelPayouts - a dashboard with programs like Booking.com to GetYourGuide in one place
• SafetyWing - the best-earning travel insurance affiliate
• ShareaSale - tonnes of great travel brands available on one dashboard

Remember, try to be as honest and helpful as possible, recommending only products or services that you use yourself. The currency of blogging is trust.