Top Digital Camera for Travelers

What Digital Camera to Buy

Click! If there's one thing a traveler doesn't want to forget to bring on a honeymoon, it's a camera — and there's nothing more fun and functional than a digital one.

Resolution is higher than ever, while prices have come down (although not as low as we'd like to see them). You can even record video with most newer digital camera models.

As a traveler and photographer, the brand of camera that I consistently choose is Canon. The company features a wide range of products from couldn't-be-simpler point-and-shoot digital camera models to high-end models with powerful zoom lenses.

Researching a Top Digital Camera for a Traveler
When it's time to buy a new digital camera, I start by asking other travelers what they recommend. Then I research online. As a traveler, what I look for primarily is a camera that is lightweight yet powerful. I want one that will take the best photos in the most situations and has a good zoom function. These are some of the sites I visit to read reviews:

• Amazon.com
• Consumer Search
• Digital Cameras from About.com

I also go to independent camera stores and seek out a well-informed salesperson. I find that there's a better chance of encountering one at such a place rather than at a Walmart, Best Buy, or Office Depot type of store. In the store, I gauge how heavy a model is and how it feels in my hand. The advantage of buying a digital camera from a store is that you don't have to worry about mailing it back if you decide to return it within a week (always check return policies).

Buying a Top Digital Camera for a Traveler
Don't let anyone else buy a camera for you. As a traveler, the features you want may not be the same as another photographer's.

One store I've done business with a number of times and has always been helpful and willing to take back a carefully packaged return is 17th Street Photo, which does the majority of its business online.

Of course, it makes sense to check prices before you buy. Since I'm loyal to the Canon brand, once I know the digital camera model I want, I search online for competitive prices. I recommend PriceGrabber (compare prices on Canon cameras).

Tip: As a traveler, whatever digital camera you choose, pack an extra memory card so that you don't run out of space when you are far from home.