Choosing the right travel camera can be difficult, especially on a budget. When the trip is over, your pictures are some of the best souvenirs you’ll have. But while you’re looking for the best camera, you shouldn’t have to take out a loan to suit your style. Are you taking your camera for a night on the town, an afternoon on the river, or a rock-climbing excursion? No matter what your style, find the camera that’s right for you.

 

Rough and Ready

Pentax Optio W90

• compact, 12.1 megapixels

• underwater depth up to 19.7 feet

Durable for your most active vacations, and waterproof for the rainy season, this rugged compact fits easily in the hand and in the pocket. While the w90 is no longer being shipped from the company, it is available online. The newer WG-1 is also available for purchase from Pentax. 

$210

 

Pratical Traveler

Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS

• ultracompact, 12.1 megapixels

• rechargeable battery

A wonderful option for any practical traveler. Its user-friendly features and rounded edges make it a comfortable companion at home or abroad.

$96

 

Fashion Statement

Nikon Coolpix s3000

• ultracompact, 12 megapixels

• comes in a variety of colors including silver, purple, green, red, black, blue, and orange.

For those with a sense of flair who are looking for either a little coordination in their accessories or just a great camera for less. The sleek design and the excellent image quality make it perfect for a day of sightseeing or a night on the town.

$84

 

Speed Demon

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W350

• ultracompact, 14.1 megapixels

• 1/1600 sec to 2 sec shutter speed

For those who just can’t wait for that perfect picture. This camera is a steal for its image quality and its speed. Don’t get a blurry picture when you really want an action shot. It’s also capable of wide-angles so you can get the whole sweeping vista outside your hotel.

$111

 

Inner Artist

Canon EOS Rebel XS with 18-55mm lens

• SLR, 10.1 megapixels

• 15.9 oz

An artistic look without the expense. This camera offers all the style at a fraction of the cost. The bonus of looking like a professional instead of a tourist comes free.

$434

—Kara Kemp