Wondering what camera gear you actually need for travel photos and video? In this post we’re sharing the kit we carry in the van and how we keep our files safe on the road. Evan shoots video and Melanny shoots photos.
Note: The links provided in this blog post are affiliate links. If you end up purchasing some of these items we get a small portion of the sales.
The camera
The Sony A7 IV is our main camera, for both photos and video. It’s the best camera we’ve found for both, and once you know the buttons, you can customize them to make the setup work for your needs.
Lenses
- Wide: the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 GM is the one we reach for on big landscapes.
- Everyday: the Sony 55mm F1.8 ZA is small and light, so it’s the easy one to throw in a day pack.
- Telephoto: ours is the original Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G. Sony has since replaced it with the FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II, and that’s the one we’d buy today.
Audio and carry
For video, the Rode VideoMic Pro R mounts right on the camera. For action shots, we used a GoPro HERO10. On trail, a Peak Design Capture clip holds the camera on a backpack strap, so it’s ready without digging through a bag.
Storage and backups
- Memory cards: the A7 IV takes CFexpress Type A cards. Ours are the Sony 160GB, and Sony’s current card is the Sony CEA-G240T.
- Fast backup: a SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD.
- Long-term storage: a Seagate Rugged 5TB drive.
Tip: Back up your cards often. A van gets bumped around on every dirt road, and so does everything in it.
Recap
- Start with one good body that does both photo and video.
- Add a wide lens and a light everyday lens before anything else.
- Bring a mic if you shoot video.
- Back up everything, and then back it up again!
We hope this helps you pick your own travel kit. If you have questions about any of this gear, write us!