WHY GO PRO?
The concept of the GoPro came from a desire to capture quality surfing photos on the go. A young surfer wanted a small, wearable, and waterproof shooter while surfing and that young man founded a company named GoPro. Yes, it was the visualization of that young man, Nicholas Woodman, which brought the concept of the wearable camera to the market.
We've featured the best travel day packs, waterproof duffel bags, travel backpacks, and underseat carry ons, now we are delving into the world of cameras!
Whether you are traveling through torrential weather, touring epic underwater excursions or going H.A.M. at sports with your friends – all you need is a GoPro relive those crazy adventurous moments. Unlike any other kind of camera, these action cameras are small and designed to be attached to different mounts to capture wide-angle and fish-eyed angles with extreme details. They are particularly popular for their moment-of-truth point of view (POV) footage.
GoPro square-shaped Hero cameras changed the perspective in videos for travel, swimming, extreme sports and more. GoPro has mastered the concept of the true wearable POV camera! GoPro dominates over the action camera industry even with the serious competition from brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST GO PRO FOR TRAVEL
Price
- Is it a bargain GoPro or a pricey one? We let you know!
Water Depth
- GoPro's are known for their waterproofing, we let you know how deep they can dive.
Max Video Resolution
- Does the Go Pro shoot up to 4K video? We let you know
Max Photo Resolution
- We fill you in on the max photo frame rate
Voice Control
- Voice control is an awesome feature, we let you know if the model comes with it
Touchscreen
- Is the LCD touch screen a must have? We let you know which Go Pro models have it or not
How to use GoPro while Traveling - Tips
It takes time to get experienced at capturing photos on the GoPro with the proper clarity and quality. However, everyone can learn to take amazing photos and videos with the GoPro. Here are some quality enhancement tips:
- The Golden Rule is ‘Keep it Slow, Keep it Steady’! Hold the camera in both hands, make it balanced and take your snap. For videos make sure to move your hands slowly and smoothly for a quality shot
- Selfie lovers can use the Time-Lapse mode for amazing results. If you want a wider perspective, you might want to consider using a selfie stick and move the camera steadily for continuous shooting. The automatic Time-Lapse option will let you to capture photos at a predetermined time lapse with the press of the shutter button.
- Practice to figure out the best camera compositions and shooting points. It’s all about the depth of field and your point of view.
- Don’t get dispirited if the initial photos don't meet your expectations. Just have fun with the camera and take multiple snaps from different points of view. Just keep the ones you like while deleting the rest. Don’t compare them with photoshopped, professional pictures.
GoPro Settings
The three major GoPro settings are: 1. Resolution; 2. Frame Rate, and 3. The Field of View.
Resolution
Resolution will specify the pixel dimensions of the captured videos. The higher the resolution, the better the result. The size of the picture or video will vary with the change in resolution settings. You will find the lowest WVGA resolution up to the highest 4K resolution in the latest GoPro cameras. Higher resolutions will result in larger file sizes.
Frame Rate
The Frame rate expresses the number of frames or images that can be taken per second. It is usually referred to as FPS (Frame Per Second). The standard videos are shot at 30 fps. If you want to capture slo-mo (slow motion) videos, you have to increase the frame rate above 30. GoPro can capture videos with 24 to 240 fps. So, all you have to do is experiment with different frame rates to suit your needs. Lower the resolution if you want to take videos with a higher frame rate than 30 fps.
Field of View
The field of view refers to how much the camera can view or capture within its vision. If a camera is outfitted with 180-degree field of view, then it can capture everything in front of the lens. The GoPro comes with a range of fields of view. With Ultra Wide field of view, it can capture almost everything in front of the lens with a 170-degree angle. Medium field of view comes with 127-degree while the Narrow field of view can capture videos with 90-degree angle. You can use Ultra Wide angle for more a smoother, moving recording whereas Medium and Narrow angles produce the best results from at-a-standstill perspectives.
THE BEST GO PRO FOR TRAVEL
If you want to shoot your travel experience, you will ultimately need to prep your GoPro for action with the proper accessories and mount. However, to start, you need to decide on which GoPro camera has the necessary features for your trip. Every GoPro model has its distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here are some things you should look out for.
Go Pro | Name | Max Video Resolution | Max Photo Rez | Voice Control | Touch Screen |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
4K/30fps | 12MP/30 fps burst | yes | yes | ||
4K/30fps | 12MP/30 fps burst | yes | yes | ||
4K/30fps | 12MP/30 fps burst | yes | yes | ||
4K/30fps | 12MP/30 fps burst | no | no | ||
4K/30fps | 12MP/30 fps burst | yes | yes | ||
4K/30fps | 12MP/30 fps burst | yes | yes |
$$$
4K/30fps
yes voice control
33 ft water depth
12MP/30 fps burst
yes touch screen
If you are looking for the most powerful GoPro yet, the GoPro HERO5 Black is the ultimate weapon for your arsenal. GoPro continues its legacy featuring cutting edge technologies in this latest and greatest version of action camera. The Hero 5 Black is our #1 pick for the best go pro for travel!
One of the key features of the GoPro HERO5 Black is its ability to capture raw still images. With these minimally processed images, you will be able to edit them later to your heart’s content. Moreover, it features a 12 MP image sensor with up to 4K resolution. It also can also shoot slow-motion and cinematic videos at 120 fps and 24 fps respectively in addition to the standard 30 fps ultra wide shooting.
It can be submerged 33’ in the water without any external aid. Regarding the newest features, it features voice control, linear field of view, video stabilization, and new attribute to pro-tune mode. Since this fantastic camera can dive 196' into water with an external housing, taking deep-water snaps has become much easier.
With linear field of view, the camera now can take alteration-free fished-eye illustrations. The new pro-tune features with manual will allow you more control and space for post-production editing. With a 2-inch touch display, voice control recognition, the ability to capture raw images, and immense waterproofing depth, it’s no wonder that this action camera stands at the very top of the line in this industry.
$$$
4K/30fps
no voice control
131 ft water depth
12MP/30 fps burst
no touch screen
Looking for an action camera that can capture some of the very best images and videos without compromising the quality and at an affordable price point?
Whether you want to take standard 30 fps 4K videos or lower-res slo-mos, this camera can do both with superb picture clarity. You simply cannot differentiate standard images or videos taken from Hero 5 Black and the Hero 4 Black. This Hero 4 Black features a big 12 MP sensor with a fast and powerful capture. When it first came into the market, GoPro HERO4 BLACK boasted a 2x performance improvement from the previous generation with its faster and more powerful processor.
The built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth will allow you to upload images and videos to your GoPro cloud account and share them instantly via phone. With its impressive camera control and built-in video trimming, you can create and save short video clips on the camera immediately. Another important functionality of GoPro HERO4 BLACK is its ability to deliver cinema quality videos with it's patented Protune SuperView.
Moreover, the QuickCapture convenience feature in addition to the auto lowlight mode will allow you to capture moments in a flash. With it's superb control, capture speed, low light image quality, automated settings, and impressive image and video quality.
$$
4K/12.5fps
no voice control
33 ft water depth
12MP/30 fps burst
no touch screen
The GoPro Hero4 Silver is the first ever GoPro to sport a touch sensitive display. The key features of this particular model do not vary much with the Black version (which is actually black!) except that it has the addition of a built-in touch display and the exclusion of 4K video recording at standard 30 fps. Similar to the GoPro Hero4 Black, this Silver edition features a 12 MP image sensor with 2.7K resolution at customary 30 fps.
Taken as a whole, it can shoot standard, cinematic, and slow-motion videos from 24 to 120 fps. Among other features, it includes a built-in mic and you can always add an external 3.5mm mic adapter.When it comes to connectivity, it is equipped with Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support in order to achieve a faster cloud response and smart remote functionality. With your GoPro Cloud account, you can share your moments via uploading them into your cloud account.
With the support of touch display, camera control is much easier in this GoPro Hero4 Silver camera. Protune with SuperView offers great white balance, ISO limit, sharpness, vividness, and exposure to the images. With it's built-in touch display, professional video quality, and auto low-light mode, in addition to fast powerful and photo capture, this is a great piece of gear for travel professionals on the go!
$$
1440P/30fps
no voice control
197 ft water depth
8MP/10 fps burst
no touch screen
The GoPro HERO5 Session can be described as the younger brother of the HERO5 Black. GoPro maintained their legacy of coming with a lite version of the HERO5 Black at a more affordanle price point. When it comes to the special attributes of the HERO5 Session, its added features like video stabilization and raw audio like the Hero5 Black.
However, it had to compromise in sensor size and frame rates. Even though it can record 4K videos just like its elder brother, the low light image and video quality and video noise will still be compromised in this Session adaptation. With a 10 MP sensor, it can shoot videos at 24 to 120 fps. It can dive 33’ deep into water without any addition housing. This lite action camera also assimilates the latest technology of linear field of view.
With this new attachment, this younger brother can automatically maneuver distorted oval fish-eye effects from any pictures. The scenario is especially true for aerial footage. Even though these effects can be fixed in post editing, the linear field of view can ensure it by design. Moreover, you cannot overlook the one-button simplicity and the power of voice control. 4K video capability, one-button simplicity, voice control, Advanced Video Stabilization, and 10 MP sensor in a smaller size make this action camera the best lite alternative on the market.
$$
1440p/30fps
no voice control
33 ft water depth
8MP/10 fps burst
no touch screen
If you can settle with a ‘trimmed down’ version of GoPro Hero 5 Session with fewer features and a smaller image sensor, you should definitely check out the GoPro Hero Session. This model is designed to satisfy the growing camera needs of price sensitive buyers! This is the smallest and lightest GoPro ever made!
The most striking factors of the GoPro HERO Session are its sleek form and the user-friendly functionality. This particular Holiday Promo Kit package comes with a couple of added accessories. The package includes the camera, a floating hand grip handle, a 16 GB microSD card, a standard frame, curved and flat adhesive mounts, a mounting buckle, and additional mounting hardware besides the micro USB cable.
You should not disregard this youngest brother of the GoPro family! With its 8 MP image sensor, it can shoot Full HD 1080p videos from 25 to 60 fps. You can also use it to record some stunning slow-motion videos at 720p resolution. In case you are wondering about the burst frame rate, the 8 MP sensor canshoot images up to 10 fps burst rate.
When it comes to weather and waterproofing, it was designed to hold up in extreme environments and conditions. Also, it can dive 33’ into the water without the help of any external housing. With the lightest, smallest, and most compact size in addition to easy to use functionality, this edition of the GoPro is great for all the action camera enthusiasts and beginners.
$
1080p/60fps
no voice control
33 ft water depth
8MP/5 fps burst
yes touch screen
If you are looking for an entry-level action camera, the GoPro HERO+LCD is the best way to travel GoPro. This is the model that remains after trimming down most of the feature of the high-end GoPro Hero 4 series. However, what gives an edge to this particular model is the live view LCD display. It also includes some other juices beside the LCD.
Thanks to its waterproof housing, it can be submerged 131’ into the water. It is designed to sustain extreme weather conditions. Water, snow, dust, dirt – nothing can block its pathway. The package includes the Hero+ camera with a built-in touch LCD display, the integrated housing, built-in battery, quick release buckle, and micro USB cable. Surprisingly, the battery is not removable!
The image quality of this particular action camera is quite good. You can shoot 8 MP Full HD 1080p photos at 60 fps with this model. Regarding the connectivity, you can enjoy high-end services with faster, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The GoPro App will allow you to share your adventurous moments easily via your phone or tablet.
The QuickCapture mode will let you capture images at a moment’s notice. Basic GoPro features like SuperView and Auto Low Light will allow you to take some amazing professional-quality shots. With a built-in Touch sensitive LCD display, great image quality, and built-in ragged housing, this GoPro HERO+LCD is a great travel action camera for casual use.
Accessories Kit
How can we forget about the all-important GoPro accessories! Here are two super awesome basic accessories starter kits for your travel adventure.
Next up we have a great accessories starter kit from Lifelimit. The kit includes a Octopus Tripod, Suction cup, and Floaty bobber with a strap and screw for a steady capture. It also includes a 360-degree Rotation Clip & Screw, an Extendable Handheld Monopod Pole, and a Bicycle Handlebar or Seat post Clamp with a Three-way Adjustable Pivot Arm which can be used for remote usage. In addition there are four Flat & 4x Curved Mounts with adhesive pads, a chest harness, Headstrap Mount, and a LifeLimit large size pouch. Finally, the kit includes a 360-degree Rotation Wrist Mount, Black Tripod Mount Adapter, and Gopro Surface J-Hook and five long thumbscrews.
The adjustable and sturdy chest harness allow you to set the GoPro cameras comfortably on your chest regardless of your shape or size. With this accessory, you can enjoy all the extreme outdoor sports and adventures and relive them via the GoPro. Using the bicycle clip or handlebar mounting clip, you can attach your camera/s in different places get a completely new shooting perspective.This starter kit is full of almost everything you need for your GoPro. With this kit, you are fully prepared for your next exciting voyage.
If you are looking for a set of the most essential accessories for your GoPro, check out this Outdoor Sports Kit by Black Pro. This particular kit includes the 13 most fundamental items for any GoPro model.
It includes one Wristband, one Headband, and one Pouch as a starter. Next, the package comprises a Bicycle Clip, a Chest Strap, and an Extendable Handle Monopod for sports like kayaking, motocross, biking and so on. A 360 degree rotation backpack clip, a tool, and two J-hooks in addition to 2 Adapters were added into the kit for better versatility. Finally, a Car Suction Cup Mount Holder is included. A gift is also included in the package: the Floating Handle Grip.
The included items are the most baisc and would be a great for any GoPro trip. For instance, the flexible and comfortable chest strap will let you capture shots of different extreme sports and outdoor activities. The wrist strap mount and the floating grip mount will let you relive your most enjoyable moments. This set of essential accessories is a no brainer for any GoPro traveler!
What are the best travel accessories for GoPro?
When it comes to accessories, GoPro has it personalized mounting alternatives. Be that as it may, not all the accessories can be considered useful or user-friendly.Flex Clamp can be considered as one of the essential accessories thanks to its flexible, quick, and secure repositioning competencies. Suction Cup Mount works great with its one-handed locking mechanism and a comfortable pull-up handle. The Mule Mount is a great alternative for handheld shooting.Standard Housing, Snorkeling Filter, Tripod, Frame Housing, Socket Set, Sticky or Adhesive Mounts, Mount Adapters, Selfie Stick, Handlebar or Pole Mount, Point and Shoot Wrist Leashes, Anti-fog Inserts, GoPro Fetch, Helmet Mount and Chest Mounts are some of the essential accessories for GoPro traveling.If you are planning to have some fun under water, you might want dedicated water-sport accessories. For better audio quality, you can always add an external Mic Adapter with micro USB or USB-C port.
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