The Best Camera For Hiking And Backpacking (2020 Review)

Looking for a good camera that you can take hiking?

With all the choices available in ​2020 it can be tough to choose.

The best camera for hiking needs to be both relatively lightweight so you can lug it around with you easily, and durable enough that it can handle the trails.

On top of that, you'll want to make sure it fits your budget.

There's a lot to look out for - so let's unmuddy the waters, shall we?

We have gathered and reviewed the top cameras best suited for outdoor treks, gone over the details, and are here to help you make an easier decision.

Note: if you're interested in DSLR cameras for taking wildlife pictures, check out our Best DSLR Cameras Review and our Best DSLR Camera Lenses Review.

But if you're looking for something more compact and easy to carry, read on...

Comparing The Cameras

The Ten Top Hiking Cameras (​2020 Review)

1) Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ70

One of this camera’s best features is the long optical zoom of 60x, which together with the power optical image stabilization means you can take crisp clear pictures of everything from wildlife to wide landscape shots - and you'll be seeing plenty of each on a good hike. The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ70 is equipped with a sound shield and you can record HD videos with clear sound even on windy days. And if creative control is your thing, it comes with many pre-loaded filters for both images and videos.

2) Canon PowerShot SX600

This amazing camera is very light and small – you can carry it in your pocket – but beneath the small frame you have an impressive 16-megapixel sensor and 18x optical zoom. Together with Wi-Fi connectivity and one-touch mobile device connect button, you can share all your adventures on the internet and social media on the go. Connected to your phone or tablet, you can take remote shots if you like using monopods or tripods for the perfect shot.

3) Sony DSC-RX100/B - Top choice

The Sony DSC-RX100/B is compact, yet professional. You won't have any trouble carrying it with you on your hiking trip, and you'll be pleased with the creative opportunities offered by its 20.1-megapixel sensor and high-performance lens. Explore taking pictures in low light with incredible clarity, and shoot full HD videos of fast moving objects. Best of all, you can take pictures while walking without any blurring effect.

4) Nikon COOLPIX S6400

If you want a camera that's like a perfect little companion, and still has the power to capture your adventure with decent clarity, then the Nikon COOLPIX S6400A is a great option for your next trip. You can use it to take wide-angle landscapes and use the 12x zoom. While there are other more powerful cameras on the market, what it lacks in overall image quality, it makes up for in being small and durable. It's a balancing act with any camera that you'll be taking with you on the trails.

5) Samsung TL90

The Samsung TL90 is a sleek model that fits into your pocket, or even a small handbag. Meanwhile, the camera’s 12.2 sensor with effective recording option enables you to get the perfect picture while hiking without carrying bulky equipment with you. The 3x zoom will let you get close to the objects. If you are a beginner, it’ll be fantastic for you since it comes with creative photographing tips and it will teach you as you use it.

6) Sigma C79900 DP3

If you are patient and willing to work towards getting an incredible picture worth waiting for, the Sigma C79900 DP3 is the right camera for you. It’s very light and travel-friendly, so you can use it on slower, relaxing camping trips where capturing the scenery becomes an art form. It produces 15M images with a great clarity, and it’s perfect for shooting monochrome images as well.

7) Panasonic Lumix ZS20 - Best value for the money

This incredibly handy point-and-shoot camera comes equipped with GPS – but it doesn’t end there. With this camera, you will never be lost, because the camera will auto adjust the clock and location and provide you with nearby landmarks and tips. Despite the size, it still packs a decent punch with the 24mm Ultra Wide-angle Lens and a 30x optical zoom.

8) Canon Powershot SX610

This camera comes with a 20.2 sensor and a DIGIC 4+ image processor, so you can take images in low light with impressive quality. Meanwhile, it is light and small, and you will be able to carry it with you not only on hiking and camping trips but every day as well. Connect it with your phone or tablet for remote controlling and sharing the moments you’ve captured on social media.

9) Nikon COOLPIX S9900

The Nikon COOLPIX S9900 stands out for its impressive 30x optical zoom, and the 60x Dynamic Fine Zoom which can help you capture shots at a distance. The camera features a PSAM mode dial for advanced users, and it’s light enough not to be a burden when you go on backpacking trips. Solid little camera, it'll do much better than a cellphone camera.

10) Olympus TG-870

​Updated 2/9/2020 - The last camera on our list, the Olympus TG-870, is a bit different compared to the others. Its main features are relative to durability. You can use it underwater, it is dust-proof, and it can withstand a fall from a seven foot height. Meanwhile, the pictures are crisp and clear, and, you can take full HD videos at 60 fps and use night mode for shooting in low visibility. If durability is your top concern, this is a strong choice.