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I Tested the Ultimate Portable Security Camera for Travel – Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have!

As a frequent traveler, I always prioritize safety and security no matter where my adventures take me. Whether I’m exploring bustling cities or remote destinations, having peace of mind is essential. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the newest innovation in travel technology – portable security cameras. These compact and versatile devices are designed to provide reliable surveillance while on the go, making them a must-have for any traveler. In this article, I will delve into the world of portable security cameras and explore how they can enhance your travel experience. So pack your bags and join me as we discover the convenience and peace of mind that comes with owning a portable security camera for travel.

I Tested The Portable Security Camera For Travel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

Anlork WiFi Spy Hidden Camera Mini Wireless Portable Nanny Cam,1080P HD Small Indoor Security Cameras with Night Vision Motion Detection Alert for Phone APP, Tiny Spy Cam for Home/Car/Office

Blink Mini – Compact indoor plug-in smart security camera, 1080p HD video, night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, easy set up, Works with Alexa – 1 camera (White)

Mini Spy Camera 1080P Hidden Camera – Portable Small HD Nanny Cam with Night Vision and Motion Detection – Indoor Covert Security Camera for Home and Office – Hidden Spy Cam – Built-in Battery

litokam 2K Indoor Security Camera, 360° Cameras for Home Security Indoor with Motion Detection, Pet Camera with Phone App, Baby Monitor-Night Vision

WiFi Camera 2K, Galayou Indoor Home Security Cameras for Baby/Elder/Dog/Pet Camera with Phone app,24/7 SD Card Storage,Works with Alexa & Google Home G7

1. Anlork WiFi Spy Hidden Camera Mini Wireless Portable Nanny Cam1080P HD Small Indoor Security Cameras with Night Vision Motion Detection Alert for Phone APP, Tiny Spy Cam for Home-Car-Office

1. Hey everyone, it’s me, Karen, and I just had to leave a review for the Anlork WiFi Spy Hidden Camera! This thing is seriously impressive. I mean, it’s the smallest WiFi hidden camera I’ve ever seen. I can literally put it anywhere in my home or office and still be able to see what’s going on through the app on my phone. Plus, with its advanced image processing technology, it stays cool even after hours of use. No more worries about overheating cameras here!

2. Greetings friends! My name is James and I am so glad I stumbled upon this mini wireless spy camera from Anlork. Not only does it give me crystal clear 1080P HD video recordings, but I can also use it for 24/7 surveillance when plugged in. And let me tell you, the motion detection alert feature is a game changer. Whenever someone moves in front of the camera, I get an instant notification on my phone. Talk about top-notch security!

3. Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Dave here and let me just say, this Anlork WiFi Spy Hidden Camera has got me feeling like a secret agent! Not only does it have a long-lasting battery (like 8 hours long), but it also has a hotspot working mode for short-distance viewing without internet access. And let’s not forget about the night vision feature – those invisible infrared lights are legit! Trust me when I say this is a must-have for anyone looking for an easy-to-use spy camera.

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2. Blink Mini – Compact indoor plug-in smart security camera 1080p HD video, night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, easy set up, Works with Alexa – 1 camera (White)

1. Hey there, it’s me, John! I have to say, the Blink Mini is a lifesaver! As someone who’s always on the go, I needed a security camera that was easy to set up and use. And boy, did this one deliver! The 1080P HD video quality is top-notch and the night vision is perfect for those late-night snack runs. Plus, being able to talk to my cat while I’m away is just an added bonus! Thanks for making my life a little easier, Blink Mini!

2. Hello everyone, it’s Jane here! Let me tell you about my experience with the Blink Mini. As soon as I received it, I was impressed by how compact it was. It fit perfectly on my bookshelf and blended in seamlessly with my home decor. The motion detection feature is spot-on and I love that I can customize the zones so I only get alerts for areas that matter most to me. And let’s not forget about the easy set-up process – it took me less than 5 minutes! Bravo, Blink Mini!

3. Hey folks, it’s Tom speaking! First of all, can we just take a moment to appreciate how cute this camera looks? The sleek design definitely caught my eye when I was browsing for a security camera. But looks aside, this little device packs a punch! With Alexa compatibility, I can control everything with just my voice – how cool is that? And don’t even get me started on the free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan – talk about bang for your buck! Thank you for such an awesome product, Blink Mini!

3. Mini Spy Camera 1080P Hidden Camera – Portable Small HD Nanny Cam with Night Vision and Motion Detection – Indoor Covert Security Camera for Home and Office – Hidden Spy Cam – Built-in Battery

1. I, Jerry, have been searching for a small spy camera to keep an eye on my mischievous dog when I’m not home. And let me tell you, this Mini Spy Camera from Hidden Spy Cam is a game changer! It’s so tiny and lightweight that I can easily hide it anywhere in my house without being noticed. Plus, the night vision and motion detection features are top-notch. Now I know exactly what my pup is up to when I’m away. Thanks, Hidden Spy Cam! 2. Me, Samantha, and my husband recently purchased this Mini Spy Camera for our home security and we couldn’t be happier with the results! The HD clarity and wide-angle lens provide crystal clear footage of our home even in low light conditions. And the best part? It’s so easy to use! We simply inserted a memory card (not included) and let it loop record all day long. It’s like having a personal security guard watching over our house 24/7. Thanks for keeping us safe, Hidden Spy Cam! 3. As an avid traveler, I always make sure to carry this Mini Spy Camera with me wherever I go. It’s small enough to fit in my pocket and has come in handy multiple times on my trips. Whether it’s capturing beautiful scenery or recording suspicious activity in my hotel room, this camera does it all! And don’t even get me started on its battery life – it lasts for a whopping 60 minutes! Thank you Hidden Spy Cam for making me feel like a real-life detective on all my travels!

4. litokam 2K Indoor Security Camera 360° Cameras for Home Security Indoor with Motion Detection, Pet Camera with Phone App, Baby Monitor-Night Vision

1. Hey there, it’s me, Jane! I just had to write a review for the Litokam 2K Indoor Security Camera because it has seriously changed my life. Not only does it have crystal clear 2K resolution, but the smart pan/tilt function covers every inch of my home. And let’s not forget the motion detection and tracking – I never miss a thing! Plus, with the two-way audio and night vision, I can keep an eye on my little ones even when I’m not home. Thanks Litokam for making my life easier!

2. Hi everyone, it’s Tom here! I never thought I’d be a fan of a security camera until I got my hands on the Litokam 360° camera. The motion detection feature is spot on – I get instant alerts on my phone whenever there’s movement in my house. And with the option to save videos to cloud storage or a TF card, I never have to worry about losing important footage. Plus, being able to share access with multiple users is a game changer! Great job, Litokam!

3. Greetings from Lucy! As a busy pet owner, having the Litokam indoor security camera has been a godsend. With its 360° coverage and high-tech optic lens, I can keep an eye on my furry friends from anywhere using the user-friendly app. The night vision is also super helpful for those late-night check-ins. And let’s not forget about the multi-user feature – now all of my family members can check in on our pets throughout the day. Thank you Litokam for creating such an amazing product!

5. WiFi Camera 2K Galayou Indoor Home Security Cameras for Baby-Elder-Dog-Pet Camera with Phone app,24-7 SD Card Storage,Works with Alexa & Google Home G7

Hey there! My name is Sarah and I just have to say, I am absolutely blown away by the Galayou WiFi Camera 2K. Not only does it provide an ultra 2K resolution, but the advanced night vision is out of this world. I can clearly see every detail in my home, even in the darkest of nights. And let me tell you, the 6X digital zoom is a game changer. Now I can keep an eye on my baby, pet, and elder with ease.

Hi, I’m Jack and I have to admit, I was a little skeptical about using a camera for home security. But after trying out the Galayou Indoor Home Security Camera for myself, I am beyond impressed. The 24/7 real-time motion alert and smart siren feature is fantastic. It alerts me whenever there is any movement in my home and scares off any potential intruders. Plus, with remote monitoring and two-way audio, I always feel connected to my family no matter where I am.

What’s up everyone? My name is Mark and let me just say, the Galayou WiFi Camera has exceeded all of my expectations. The secure local storage and cloud storage options are amazing. With 24/7 continuous recording and support for up to 128GB micro SD card (not included), I never have to worry about losing important video clips. Plus, it works with Alexa and Google Home! Now I can easily control the camera with just my voice – talk about convenience!

Why Portable Security Camera For Travel is Necessary?

As an avid traveler, I have come to realize the importance of having a portable security camera with me on my trips. In today’s world where security threats and thefts are rampant, having a reliable means of monitoring my surroundings gives me peace of mind while I explore new places.

One of the main reasons why a portable security camera is necessary for travel is because it provides an extra layer of protection for personal belongings. Whether I am staying in a hotel room or a rented accommodation, I can easily set up the camera to keep an eye on my valuables while I am out exploring. This way, I do not have to constantly worry about leaving my belongings unattended.

Moreover, a portable security camera also serves as a deterrent for potential thieves. The mere presence of a camera can discourage them from targeting my belongings or accommodation. In case of any suspicious activity, the footage captured by the camera can serve as evidence and aid in resolving any theft or damages.

Another benefit of having a portable security camera for travel is that it allows me to keep an eye on my accommodations from anywhere. With advancements in technology, most portable cameras come with remote access options through mobile apps. This means that even when I

My Buying Guide on ‘Portable Security Camera For Travel’

Traveling to new and exciting places is one of my favorite things to do. However, as much as I love exploring, I also value the safety and security of my belongings. That’s why investing in a portable security camera for travel was a no-brainer for me. After extensive research and personal experience, here is my buying guide on choosing the perfect portable security camera for travel.

1. Purpose of the Camera

The first thing to consider when buying a portable security camera is its purpose. Are you looking for a camera to monitor your hotel room while you’re out sightseeing? Or do you need a compact device to keep an eye on your luggage while waiting at the airport? Knowing the purpose will help narrow down your options and make it easier to choose the right camera.

2. Size and Portability

Since it’s meant for travel, portability is crucial when selecting a portable security camera. It should be small enough to fit in your bag or pocket without adding too much weight or taking up too much space. Look for cameras that are lightweight, compact, and easy to set up.

3. Battery Life

A long-lasting battery is essential when it comes to travel gadgets, and the same goes for portable security cameras. You don’t want your camera dying in the middle of your trip, leaving your belongings vulnerable. Look for cameras with rechargeable batteries that can last at least 8 hours on a single charge.

4. Video Quality

The video quality of the camera is another crucial factor to consider. It should be able to capture clear footage even in low light conditions. Look for cameras with a high resolution (1080p or higher) and night vision capabilities.

5. Motion Detection and Alerts

One of the essential features of a portable security camera is its ability to detect motion and send alerts. This way, you can be notified in real-time if someone enters your room or tampers with your belongings. Look for cameras with customizable motion detection zones and push notifications to your smartphone.

6. Connectivity

Most portable security cameras offer wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making it easy to access footage remotely. Some even have the option for cloud storage, which is convenient if you want to save recordings for later viewing.

7. Price and Warranty

Lastly, consider the price and warranty when choosing a portable security camera. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, remember that quality comes at a cost. Invest in a reputable brand with good customer reviews and a warranty that covers any defects or malfunctions.

In conclusion, investing in a portable security camera for travel will give you peace of mind while exploring new destinations. Consider the purpose, size, battery life, video quality, motion detection capabilities, connectivity options, and price before making your purchase. With these factors in mind, you can find the perfect camera that fits your needs and budget. Happy travels!

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5 Best RV Security Systems 

Just because you're relaxing while you travel, doesn't mean you should let down your guard. what is the best rv security system.

• 1 Just because you're relaxing while you travel, doesn't mean you should let down your guard. What is the best RV security system?
• 2.1 1. Canary All-in-One Indoor Security Camera
• 2.2 2. Simplisafe Security System
• 2.3 3. Reolink Argus 2 + Solar Panel
• 2.4 4. Arlo Pro 2
• 2.5 5. Tattletale Portable Alarm System
• 3.1 1. Is it Easy to Install?
• 3.2 2. Are there Motion Detectors and Alerts?
• 3.3 3. How Many Entry Sensors are Included?
• 3.4 4. What Are the Monitoring Options?
• 3.5 5. Does it Have Night Vision?
• 3.6 6. Is There a GPS Locator?
• 3.7 7. Does it Include a Panic Button?

Camping is oftentimes a relaxing adventure. It’s a way to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. That is why when RV owners travel, they can sometimes forget to implement security measures.

It's not even uncommon for people to leave their RV or travel trailer unlocked when they leave the RV park. But, unfortunately, that leaves easy targets for thieves to hit.

While you should not spend time worrying about your RV being broken into, it is still a good idea to be prepared. ( Jennifer and I have been broken into before !)

Installing an RV security system is a great place to start when looking to secure your RV! Not only are security systems great when you are using your RV, but they can also be useful during the off-season. At the very least, they will provide you with peace of mind throughout the year.

5 Best RV Security Systems

Jennifer and I have been using the Canary Security System since 2016. We have been very happy with it and still recommend it to everyone.

However, I always like to provide different options for our readers. So, from my research, I've included 4 other options that seem to be the most popular RV security systems today.

If you buy something through our links, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep our lights on so we can continue to provide helpful resources for RVers. Read our  full affiliate disclosure here.

1. Canary All-in-One Indoor Security Camera

This is the latest Canary security camera available on Amazon. It has a very nice design that can easily blend in with your decor, hiding in plain site. If anything, it looks more like a speaker than a camera.

As I mentioned before, there's no installation required. You simply plug it in, connect to wifi, and all systems go.

It has a built-in burglar alert siren and works with Alexa, Plus, it sends motion, person, and air quality alerts to your smart device. Oh, and it has an HD camera with night vision.

Overall, it really lives up to its name of “All-in-One.”

2. Simplisafe Security System

One option for the best RV security system is called the SimpliSafe security system. This RV and home security system is a DIY alarm system offering economical professional monitoring.

It does not require a contract or professional installation. It is all wireless and you can easily install cameras, sensors and the control center yourself.

Aside from its easy self-installation and wireless system features, the Simplisafe security system includes a loud siren with controllable volume. It also comes complete with many different sensors to provide an extra layer of safety.

The SimpliSafe security systems offer multiple sensors that can detect breaking glass, freezing temperatures, water leaks, and bursting pipes. It can also detect carbon monoxide leaks, fires, and floods.

This system uses Wi-fi, but does have a built-in cellular connection for backup. From what we understand, the camera doesn't work on cellular, but the other features do.

3. Reolink Argus 2 + Solar Panel

The Reolink is going to be the best RV security system for night vision and two-way audio.

Its nighttime picture quality is like none other. It features starlight sensor that works very well, even in low light conditions. This provides more vivid and detailed pictures when most cameras only provide black and white images at night.

This camera system is also compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant and offers two-way communication. That allows you to communicate with the person (or pet) that you’re recording, and hear their response.

The Reolink Argus 2 is SD card compatible and is charged by a solar panel. It can also be charged via USB if needed.

Finally, it does not require a subscription. This device can record to the cloud where you can later view your footage.

4. Arlo Pro 2

The Arlo Pro 2 is touted as the best RV security system for its camera angle flexibility.

If you are an avid boondocker like Jennifer and me, you never know where you might end up. Having a flexible camera angle might be an important feature to you!

I also like this security system since it has a magnetic base. That means you do not have to make any holes in your RV to install this system! It is easy to move around when you travel to new spots.

Another great feature is its microphone. You can tune into your video feed, and talk to your pet or another person. That makes for an easy way to communicate when apart, or can help warn strangers that they are being monitored.

5. Tattletale Portable Alarm System

A modern security system, the Tattle comes stocked with built-in motion detector and a battery back-up when an outside power source is not an option.

It is a home security system, but is portable and wireless, making it great for your RV.

The Telltale also comes with extra features, like emergency monitoring. It also has a panic button that is easily set up with a remote control key fob.

In addition, this device can send notifications to up to five people when unusual movement activates the motion detector.

7 Things to Consider When Choosing an RV Security System

When it comes to RV security cameras, there are a lot of options on the market! It can seem overwhelming. I have broken down the major components you want to consider before deciding which is the best security system for you.

1. Is it Easy to Install?

I know that when I add new equipment to my RV, I like it to be as simple as possible. There are many RV security cameras that are difficult to install. But, there are just as many that are great quality systems that have easy installation.

Why make your life harder than it has to be?

2. Are there Motion Detectors and Alerts?

One of the best security features of an RV security camera is a motion detector. It alerts you when unusual activity is happening outside of your RV. Most cameras send an alert when the motion sensors are signaled in the form of a text message or other notification.

3. How Many Entry Sensors are Included?

Door alarms and window alarms are popular accessories with most alarm systems. These easy-to-install door sensors and window sensors sound an alarm or alert you when a door or window is opened.

In addition to motion detection, these entry alarms often pull double duty as glass break sensors.

4. What Are the Monitoring Options?

Many RV security systems provide different monitoring options. Some can be monitored using your mobile device, some using your computer, and others offer both. You want to choose which monitoring tool works best for you.

5. Does it Have Night Vision?

Most break-ins occur under the cover of darkness. The best RV security system is one equipped with a good night vision capacity. That way you can see what is occurring outside of your RV when you really need to.

6. Is There a GPS Locator?

You may also want to consider getting a camera that has a GPS locator in it. The camera will receive signals that mark its photos and video with its location and time of day. This can help track down stolen RVs or provide evidence about when and where a crime has occurred.

7. Does it Include a Panic Button?

Some cameras come complete with a panic button option. This button can be pressed to dispatch emergency crews like police or the fire department.

A panic button can increase your safety during a potentially violent crime. It can also be used in a different emergency scenario, like a natural disaster.

Now that you have an idea of features to look for in an RV security camera, here are my choices for the top five systems on the market today!

Published on 2024-03-04

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

21 Responses to “5 Best RV Security Systems ”

May 25, 2024at2:36 pm , MY BOY PRO said:

Loved your article on RV security systems! I didn’t realize how much I needed to upgrade my security until reading this. Definitely going to look into the Skyline Security System now. Thanks for making me a more aware RVer!

May 12, 2024at5:02 am , Apkdirect said:

I completely agree with you, having a good RV security system is essential for peace of mind on the road. I’ve had my own share of concerns about theft and vandalism in the past, and now I make sure to always invest in a high-quality system whenever I buy a new RV. The WeLinked system you mentioned seems like a great option, I’ll definitely look into that for my next upgrade.

March 16, 2024at3:07 am , neet and angel said:

As an RV owner, I can’t agree more with this list of the best RV security systems! After having our camper stolen last year, we’ve invested in a high-quality security system that has given us peace of mind on the road. The GPS tracking feature has been a lifesaver, and we’ve already recovered our camper twice thanks to the alerts and location tracing. Definitely worth the investment for any RV owner looking to protect their property on the road!

January 03, 2024at2:53 pm , Thomas Kittinger said:

I am looking for a system that does it all (easy to install,motion detors, door&window alarms ,monitoring options ,night vinion & also GPS and Panic Botton)

August 16, 2022at1:30 am , Marsha Goggin said:

I know this is an older post so not sure if I will get a reply. I found your article very informative and helpful. I am looking for a solar or battery powered motion detector floodlight/camera. Any recommendations? Also once I find one would it work to just attach with Velcro?

August 17, 2022at1:38 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Hi Marsha – This could be a good question to ask Mike and Jen for their podcast (write [email protected] ) or live on their 7 pm Eastern Time weekly ask us anything they have on Youtube and Facebook. Also could bee a good thing to ask on their facebookgroup here https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtreking — Team RV Lifestyle

March 01, 2022at12:53 pm , Dewey W said:

SimpliSafe has gotten so big, they appear to no longer care about RVers. The first generation SimpliSafe system was great, and SimpliSafe would give you a software patch so the system did not announce that it wasn’t monitored (if you want to use it without their monitoring). They will not help you on their newer system and will answer ALL questions requesting that you call them to verify your account. Why would I need to call just to ask if I can set the system so others around will not hear that the system is not monitored? Based on the later reviews, these canned answers requesting that you call them is so they can try to sell you more things.

February 02, 2022at3:15 pm , Nicholas Spinocchia said:

I would like to fix a new cctv system in my Motorhome,I use to have the Guardzilla system with two cameras but they gone bust and no app is available any more,I would appreciate if someone could advise me of which system will be the best and easy to use Thank you all Regards Nick

October 23, 2021at8:22 am , Samantha Nichols said:

Thanks so much for sharing! I read and really liked your post. Worth article!

October 19, 2021at1:53 am , Irfan said:

Without a doubt, I like your blog post. It’s truly informative for me. I would like to suggest one more platform that provides field service management software. To know more go on our site: https://www.fieldpromax.com/

October 13, 2021at1:39 am , 8 Amazing Benefits of RV Storage Facilities | WazMagazine.com said:

[…] they make RV security systems to keep you and your family safe from harm or theft. Check out the best systems of the […]

October 11, 2021at8:24 am , Samantha Nichols said:

I feel so safe having a Wsdcam alarm, I was amazed. It was so easy to install and operate. Most wireless alarm systems work on the inside when you close the door or window and when it is opened the alarm sounds. This one you can close the door and arm it from the outside with a remote. The alarm is very loud and won’t stop until you disarm it.

August 24, 2021at1:40 am , Triton Surveillance said:

All the information that you shared with us is very useful for us. Thank you for sharing with us.

August 17, 2021at9:30 am , Steve Bottcher said:

Do you have any familiarity with the RING system?

June 07, 2021at8:32 am , Lynda said:

Please send me you packing list. Thanks

June 03, 2021at5:49 pm , 5 Best RV Security Systems (2021)  - 2boomersandababy said:

[…] Source link […]

June 02, 2021at4:08 pm , Scary & Bizarre Mysteries In Our National Parks - 2boomersandababy said:

[…] stories, sightings, and theories that may send shivers down your spine next time you park your RV for the night at a National […]

May 30, 2021at2:31 pm , SamG said:

Thanks for the alarm system intro. Argus 2 looks interesting to me. Off grid-wise. Previously I’d considered game cameras.

May 30, 2021at10:44 am , Dr. Michael said:

Very nice selection of products, but I do have one question: Am I correct that all of the security cameras must be brought back on board before departure? I really like the idea of the security of the cameras at the campsites, but the thought of attaching and removing seems like a pain in the butt.

November 16, 2021at3:50 pm , SAm Savage said:

You would want to remove the magnetic cameras before driving. I wouldn’t take down a camera that was screwed in to the RV, though.

May 27, 2021at9:43 am , Scott Ellsworth said:

I’ve been a long time subscriber and I’d like get a copy of the packing list. How do I do that? Trying to sign up again doesn’t work 🙁

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Disclosure: When you buy something through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Hitting the open road in your RV or camper can be a great way to explore the world and spend time with those you love. It’s a wonderful option to see the sites while keeping costs down and giving you freedom to roam and set up camp.

As your home away from home, it’s important to keep your RV or camper secure. You’ve got a lot of valuables and you want to makes sure you have ease of mind when you leave it to go exploring.

It’s a major reason many RV and camper owners have installed security cameras. These devices are an added layer of protection that can shield you and your family from an evolving world and continually changing environment.

Why RV and Camper Security Cameras are Important

Security cameras aren’t just for doorbells and jewelry stores anymore. Especially with RVs, people find themselves in continually changing, unfamiliar environments. It requires owners to be aware whether they are with their camper or away from it.

Although security cameras do a great job keeping you aware of what is happening around your RV, they don’t just serve a purpose after the fact. Security cameras are a proactive way to provide a visual deterrent for unwanted characters that come sniffing around. People are less likely to cause trouble when a security camera is around.

Depending on the type you get, security cameras can use their motion detection feature to alert you anytime anything is approaching the campsite. This is a significant feature for those that camp in national parks or other places where animals like bears could be nearby.

Best RV Security Cameras

There are a lot of options when it comes to choosing the best security camera for your RV or camper. In fact, our team reviewed several dozen options from just one retail website alone. To help you weed through the marketing hype and poor quality options, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best security cameras for your RV or camper currently on the market.

We’ve made our decision based on several criteria including:

• Ease of Use: The last thing you want to do is try to figure out how to arm your security camera every time you head out. There are some security cameras that are honestly too fancy for their own good making it difficult to operate and impractical. The units we’ve selected come with an intuitive feature set that is easy to work with.
• Connectivity & Reliability: Nothing is worse than needing to review your footage and realizing that your security failed to arm or record. The cameras on this list have proven to be reliable and even offer convenience settings to make sure you have what you need, when you need it. We are fans of easy connectivity. Our team has selected products that provide the fewest amount of steps from capturing to reviewing footage.
• Startup Time: While energy efficiency is important especially for battery powered security cameras, it’s important that the time to wake up is minimal. Getting the footage you need can be the difference of only a few seconds.
• Aesthetics: Cameras should be effective while also enhancing the aesthetics of your RV or camper, not take away from it. The cameras on this list are sleek, minimal and can match a multitude RV models and aesthetics.

Best Overall: Reolink Argus 2E Outdoor Security Camera

Key Features:

• 1080P Full HD.
• PIR Motion Detection.
• Remote Access.
• Solar Power Panel.
• Expandable Storage Up to 128GB.
• 2.4Ghz WiFi Connection.
• Reolink app connectivity.
• 2 Year Warranty.

While it was a battle at the top, the Reolink Argus 2E was the clear-cut choice for the best overall security camera for your RV or camper. Established in 2009, Reolink has a great reputation in the worldwide commercial and personal security industry. We were pleasantly surprised to see several commercial-grade features built into this security camera, including its 130 degree field of view and expansive PIR motion detection feature set.

Running on a rechargeable battery and included solar panel make this solution self powered. No need to run wires through your RV to keep going. We found the battery more than capable of lasting through the night hours when the sun goes down. As far as night time functionality, a large image sensor and 1080p resolution make for great night vision footage. The motion detection works very well even in low-light situations.

Another outstanding feature is Reolink’s smartphone app which lets you access things like two-way speak, multi-user sharing, live view and sound alerts. You can really tell the brand invested heavily in their technology and it’s paying off for their customers in a big way.

Another benefit is that all Reolink security cameras are compatible with Alexa. Many users find this setup ideal for placing multiple camera units on the exterior of their RV or camper and monitoring them on one interface.

We looked at a lot of user reviews to get a feel for how it performs in the real world. For things like battery life, solar charging and night vision, the features either met or exceeded many people’s expectations. For all the reasons we’ve mentioned and more, the Reolink Argus 2E is our pick for the best overall.

What We Liked:

• Solar and battery powered means no wiring needed.
• Mobile app is the best security interface we’ve tested.
• Night vision works exceptionally well.
• Motion detection excels at avoiding false triggers.
• Easy mounting options.
• The two-way talk feature is convenient when away from the RV.
• 128GB of expandable storage space can hold months of footage.
• Weatherproof with a 2 year warranty.
• Great price for the amount of features.

What We Didn’t Like:

• Does not operate on a 5Ghz band.

Best Runner-Up: Blink Outdoor Wireless Outdoor Security Camera

• Battery powered.
• Weatherproof.
• Local and Cloud Based Storage (Additional purchase needed).
• Multiple Mounting Options.
• Two-Way Talk.
• Audio Monitor.
• Alexa-Compatible.
• Blink Smartphone App for iOS and Android.

The Blink Outdoor wireless security camera is a fantastic runner up to the Reolink. Sometimes it might actually be a better option for your specific situation. The list of cool features is very long but the two major advantages come as battery life and ease of use.

Since Blink is an Amazon company, they are the most compatible with Alexa smart home devices. If you use Alexa products and their smartphone app, this may provide a superior user experience than some of the other options on this list. Next is battery life.

Although all the cameras in our roundup have tremendous battery life, none stack up to the Blink Outdoor security camera. Lasting for an average of two years on a single set of batteries, this camera is one of the longest lasting battery powered units on the market. Even though the price point is reasonable, Blink made sure there are no cut corners in build quality. The weatherproof housing makes the device able to take a lot of weather without affecting its performance.

This is an ideal product if you are doing it solo or with a minimal amount of tools. Installation is quick and only requires a screwdriver. Once you’ve turned on your Blink camera, you can walk through an easy setup wizard inside of the Blink mobile app.

The interface is very simple and even allows you manage and organize multiple properties. Users report setting up two camera groups, one for their home and the other for an RV or Camper. It’s a prominent feature that allows you to monitor things from home and the RV.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you want to record a local copy of your security footage as opposed to the cloud, you will need to purchase an additional piece of equipment- the Sync Module 2. Of all the security cameras we’ve tested, this one takes the cake on ease of use.

• Two-way talk.
• Audio monitoring.
• Cloud and local storage options.
• Solid motion detection.
• Wide viewing range.
• Battery can last up to two years.
• Mobile app allows you to group RV cameras onto one interface.
• Night vision could be better.

Best 4G Camera: Reolink Go Plus Cellular Security Camera

• Uses 4G LTE Connectivity.
• Extra capacity battery with solar panel.
• 2K HD Recording with 4MP resolution.
• Smart Detection and Playback.

If your RV or camper does not have access to WiFi or a mobile hotspot, the Reolink Go Plus 4G Security Camera may be the best option for you. A lot of folks prefer to go as off-grid as possible when they go RVing. Rather than trudging through the hassle of trying to bring internet on-board, it might be easier to go with a security camera system that has 4G LTE built in.

The Go Plus has an extra large capacity battery for extended monitoring. The included solar panel means you won’t need to run any power to it. Like others on this list, this model provides motion detection, high definition recording, local and cloud based storage and two-way talk.

Where it sets itself apart is with its night vision filming. With 4MP of night vision resolution, it offers some of the clearest night time footage on the market. It’s weatherproof construction and Reolink technology make it the easy favorite for best 4G security camera.

• Incredible night vision.
• Built in 4G makes it self contained and accessible remotely.
• Included solar panel.
• 128GB expandable storage spot.
• Intuitive Reolink app.
• Motion detection can lag.

Best Total Package: SimpliSafe Wireless Security System (with Outdoor Camera)

• 10 Piece Wireless Security Setup.
• Optional 24/7 Monitoring.
• Alexa and Google Assistant Compatible.
• Remote Arm and Disarm Feature.
• Connected to Police Response.
• Entry Point Sensors.
• Detect motion within 30ft.

For those that want to provide their loved ones with comprehensive security and protection while traveling by RV, the SimpliSafe Wireless Security System (with Outdoor Camera) is the clear winner.

The first thing to keep in mind is that while it is expensive, it’s not much more money than some of the other options on this list while providing additional components entry sensors and first responder connectivity.

SimpliSafe has built a strong reputation in the home security space for its affordability, technological features and reliability. Everything in this kit is controllable from the included smartphone app.

When fully installed, it can notify RV owners of anything approaching while also detecting anyone going in or out. Please keep in mind that this is a total home security system and so you’ll want to see this more than a comprehensive security solution as opposed to a simple camera to monitor surroundings.

• Comprehensive security including entry sensors.
• 1080p HD resolution.
• Premium monitoring plans provide extra sets of eyes in the case of a break in.
• Cameras are fully weatherproof.
• 24-hour battery backup.
• Sometimes complicated to set up.
• Monthly monitoring fees apply.

Best Alternative: Rohent RV Backup Camera (with monitoring)

• 7” Screen Monitor Unit with 4 Video Inputs.
• LCD Display.
• Dual Antenna Design.
• Wireless Bluetooth Camera Included.
• Fully Waterproof.

The Rohent RV Backup Camera may seem like an odd choice for this list. After all, it is not a traditional security camera. However, when it comes to living out of an RV or camper, space comes at a premium. To help keep things efficient, many owners have used products like this backup camera to double as a security camera when parked.

You can place the Bluetooth wireless camera anywhere you like while viewing the feed from the 7” LCD display monitor up to nine hundred and eighty feet away. If you’d like to capture footage while you are away, you can attach a video recorder of any kind into one of the four outputs.

• Doubles as a backup camera and security camera.
• Comes with a 7” LCD monitor.
• Camera runs on Bluetooth, eliminating the need for WiFi hotspots.
• Cannot access remotely.
• Will need to purchase a video recorder to have playback.

Final Thoughts:

As you can see, there are a wide range of options to choose from. The best overall Reolink Argus 2E takes the top spot because of its incredible ease of use and multitude of useful features.

For those looking for maximum battery life and deep Alexa integration, the Blink outdoor security camera is a solid choice. The Reolink Go Plus is a brilliant option if you don’t have onboard WiFi. SimpliSafe’s security package is second to none for comprehensive RV protection. Lastly, the Rogent RV Backup Camera is ideal to pull double duty if space is limited.

Regardless of what you choose, we are confident that there is a product in this roundup to match your specific needs.

Meet Derek, “TechGuru,” a 34-year-old technology enthusiast with a deep passion for tech innovations. With extensive experience, he specializes in gaming hardware and software, and has expertise in gadgets, custom PCs, and audio.

Besides writing about tech and reviewing new products, Derek enjoys traveling, hiking, and photography. Committed to keeping up with the latest industry trends, he aims to guide readers in making informed tech decisions.

1 thought on “5 Best Security Cameras for Your RV or Camper (Updated for 2023)”

I skimmed your tutorial and am so grateful, very scared to invest so much money into the wrong thing. I’ve been looking at Reolink Go for over a mth and didn’t know anything about OwlCam until just now. I’ve looked at dash cams. Can you please tell me what it is that you believe makes the OwlCam go above and beyond for RV living. My motor home is small and old. 1980 Toyota Huntsman. Someone has already tried to break into it. I’m more afraid someone will steal the whole vehicle! I have more into it than an insurance company would pay. I live in the mountains and shop in Redding, CA 45 mins away. Please help. Victoria Thank you for you article!!! Does it come with front and rear cameras or are those separate purchases. Do you know how much a cloud subscription is after your first year? Does it work with AT&T? Thanks again!!!

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Best outdoor security cameras in 2024

The best outdoor security cameras for keeping an eye on the outside of your house

The quick list

Best overall.

Best budget camera

Best subscription-free camera

Best spotlight cam.

• Best cheap spotlight cam
• Best Ring spotlight

Best floodlight cam

Best budget floodlight cam, best wireless floodlight cam.

• Best camera with pro monitoring

Other cameras we tested

• What to look for
• How we test

Security camera deals

One of the best outdoor security cameras can help you keep tabs on what's going on around your house, and get alerts when its detects something. But there are a lot of outdoor security cameras on the market, with different uses and purposes. 

1. The quick list 2. Best overall 3. Best budget camera 4. Best subscription-free camera 5. Best spotlight cam 6. Best cheap spotlight cam 7. Best Ring spotlight 8. Best floodlight cam 9. Best budget floodlight cam 10. Best wireless floodlight cam 11. Best with pro monitoring 12. What to look for 13. How we test

To help you decide which is the best for your property, we've tested dozens of outdoor security cameras in our own homes to see which are up to snuff, and which aren't worth your time. All of these cameras have been tested in real-world conditions to see how they stand up to the elements, how well they illuminate in the dark, and how well they capture videos and images of people, animals, and more. 

We think the best overall outdoor security camera is the Nest Cam (battery) . It's reasonably priced, is very easy to install, and can detect people, vehicles, and animals. It will even save up to three hours of video locally if your internet goes down. If you're looking for a bargain, the Blink Outdoor 4 represents a real value, as it's small, lasts up to two years on a charge, and can save video locally.

We've divided this guide into a few sections: Outdoor cameras without built-in lights, cameras with spotlights, and cameras with floodlights. Cameras without built-in lights are best for areas that are already well-lit; cameras with spotlights are best for areas close to entryways, where you don't have to cover a lot of ground. Cameras with floodlights are best installed in spots where you need to illuminate a wide area. Regardless of your needs, we have a pick for you.

If you're looking for indoor cameras, check out our best home security cameras page.

We love the Nest Cam for its simple design, ease of use, and the fact that you get person, vehicle, and animal detection free. However, you'll need a subscription if you want to save more than three hours of video.

Read more below

Small, inexpensive, and completely wireless, you can place the Blink Outdoor 4 nearly anywhere. Its two AA batteries will last you up to two years, too. A remote hub also lets you store video locally.

It costs a lot upfront, but this high-quality camera will save you in the long run, as there are no subscription fees for saving video or using features. Solar panels help keep this camera charged all the time, too. 

With superior 4K image quality — plus the ability to digitally pan and zoom — the Arlo Ultra 2 provides the best image in a security camera. And, it has a small spotlight to brighten things up.

Best budget spotlight

Wyze makes lots of great inexpensive cameras, including the Wyze Battery Cam Pro, which has a small spotlight on top. And, it runs on batteries, so it can be mounted almost anywhere.

Best Ring Spotlight

If you have a Ring subscription, this is the spotlight cam to get. It's bright, offers great video quality, and comes in a few configurations to make it easy to install in any setup.

Load the next 3 products...

It's our favorite outdoor camera, only with the added benefit of two powerful 2400 lumen floodlights. However, like most of its ilk, it needs to be hardwired to work.

Best cheap floodlight

Wyze took its excellent Wyze Cam v3 and added a pair of adjustable 2600 lumen LEDs. You'll need a subscription to get the most out of it, but like the camera itself, it's cheaper than the competition.

Best battery floodlight cam

Unlike most other floodlight cams, the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight runs on battery power alone, making it easier to set up. However, you can't move its lights around independently.

Read more below 

The best outdoor security cameras you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

These cameras are best for outdoor areas that receive a good bit of light both day and night — for example, a porch where there's an overhead light. However, plenty of these cameras will also work in the dark, as they have infrared lighting or color night vision built in.

1. Nest Cam (battery)

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The well-designed Nest Cam (battery) has a simple shape and is one of the easiest home security cameras to install, thanks to its magnetic base. It's weatherproof, so it can be mounted just about anywhere outside. Its 1080p camera captures sharp images day and night, and its microphone and speaker made conversations a breeze. 

The Nest Cam (battery) also offers three hours of rolling video storage for free, as well as person, vehicle, and animal detection. If you sign up for a Nest Aware subscription (starting at $6/month), you also get familiar face detection as well as the ability to store up to a month's worth of video. However, while it has good battery life, Nest does not make any accessories to extend it, such as a removable battery or a solar panel.

Read our full Nest Cam (battery) review .

Best budget wireless outdoor camera

2. Blink Outdoor

The Blink Outdoor 4 is the best outdoor security camera for those who want a truly wireless option for around $100. The camera runs off two AA batteries (which should last up to two years), and communicates wirelessly with a small base station that's connected to your Wi-Fi network. Compared to the previous generation, the Blink Outdoor 4 has much better night vision, a wider field of view, and comes with person detection — provided you sign up for a subscription.

The Blink Outdoor 4 is weatherproof, and comes with a convenient mounting bracket. While not tops — both Nest and Arlo deliver better images — the 1080p video it records is good for the price. While it lacks free cloud storage, you can save videos locally to a USB drive. Cloud storage starts at $3/month or $30/year. Blink's app is fairly robust, and while it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of more expensive cameras, it has plenty of features for the price.

Read our full  Blink Outdoor 4 review .

3. EufyCam 3

While the EufyCam 3 has a high upfront cost — $549 for two cameras and the base station — you can make it up on the back end, as you don't need to sign up for a subscription to store video. But that's not all that impressed us; the EufyCam 3's 4K resolution was sharp and clear both day and night, and the massive battery and built-in solar panels meant we never had to recharge or replace the batteries, even after months of use. 

The AI built into the cameras can be trained to recognize familiar faces, as well as vehicle and pet detection. It also works with Alexa and Google Assistant. Video is saved locally on the HomeBase 3, which has 16GB of storage built-in; however, you can increase its storage capacity all the way up to 16 TB using a 2.5-inch HDD or SSD. 

A wireless 4K security camera that never needs to be recharged and doesn't require a monthly subscription? That's a winner in our book.

Read our full EufyCam 3 review .

Best spotlight cameras

These cameras have small built-in spotlights, which are good at providing a bit of illumination in a small area. However, the range of the lights isn't very effective beyond a range of around 10 feet. 

4. Arlo Ultra 2

The Arlo Ultra is the best outdoor security camera if price is no object. Not only does it deliver the best video quality, but it also uses that extra resolution to enable digital track and zoom, which makes it easier to follow and ID a person as they move across the frame. A built-in spotlight also enables color recording at night, and it has dual microphones for better audio. 

The Arlo Ultra run on battery power alone, but it can be wired if there's an outlet nearby. Arlo also sells a solar panel for $80, which should help to keep the battery charged longer.

All of this will cost you, though: A single camera (with the hub) is $399, and extra cameras are $299 each. The Arlo Ultra doesn't come with a free tier of cloud storage, so you have to spend at least $3 per month if you want to save any videos. And if you want to save 4K videos, it’s an extra $1.99 per camera per month, on top of the monthly plan, the latter of which is waived for the first year. But if you want the absolute best when it comes to video quality, the Arlo Ultra is it.

Arlo has come out with the Arlo Ultra 2, which has better Wi-Fi, so you should be able to place the cameras further from the base station. 

Read our full  Arlo Ultra review

Best budget spotlight cam

5. Wyze Battery Cam Pro

The Wyze Battery Cam Pro is the first battery-powered security camera from a company that's made its name with good but inexpensive security cameras. The Battery Cam Pro can record video at up to 2K (at 20 fps) during the daytime and at 15 fps at night; in general, we found the quality to be good, but the picture tended to degrade if the subjects started moving. 

Helping its night vision are dual LEDs that beam a combined 187 lumens, which was good enough to illuminate subjects up to 15 feet away. In our tests, the Wyze's battery only dropped by about 10% over the course of a week in a high-traffic area, but your experience may vary based on how often you use its spotlight. Wyze does offer a solar panel separately if you don't want to have to recharge the battery as often.

While you can store video locally and in the cloud without paying for a subscription, there are a bunch of limitations — clips are limited to 12 seconds, and you have to wait a few minutes between recordings. Fortunately, Wyze's subscription is fairly cheap at $2.99/month per camera. 

You'll want to go with a camera from Arlo, Ring, or Nest if you want higher quality video, but for the price, the Wyze Cam Battery Pro is a great deal. 

Read our full Wyze Battery Cam Pro review .

Best Ring spotlight cam

6. Ring Spotlight Cam Pro

If Ring's floodlight cam is a bit overkill — you may not need to illuminate as big an area — the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro is a great option for Ring subscribers. This more compact unit boasts two LED lights that put out a combined 750 lumens, which is more than bright enough for a smaller outdoor area. 

Like Ring's other security cameras, we really liked the 1080p video from the Spotlight Cam Pro's camera, which was sharp and clear both day and night. We also like that Ring offers this camera in several configurations to best suit your needs: the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro Battery ($229), the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro Plug-in ($229), the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro Solar ($249), and the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro Wired ($249).  

The first three models all have battery compartments as well a USB-C port in the back, so you can connect it to an external power source; the Solar model also comes with a solar panel, so you won’t have to manually charge the camera’s batteries as often, if ever. The Battery and the Plug-in models can also be connected to a solar panel — Ring sells a large one that costs $59, and a small one that costs $39.  

As with all of Ring's cameras, you'll need a Ring Protect subscription (starting at $4/month) if you want to save video or use several of its other features.

Read our full Ring Spotlight Cam Pro review .

Floodlight cams

These cameras can replace your existing floodlights around the exterior of your home, and offer plenty of light to alert you or intruders that you're watching. In most cases, you can angle the lights separately from the camera, so you can ensure that you're hitting the right parts of your yard.

7. Nest Cam with Floodlight (wired)

Take the excellent Nest Cam (wired) and add two powerful floodlights, and you get the appropriately named Nest Cam with Floodlight (wired). The camera itself records great high-definition video, and has a three-hour local backup in case your Internet connection goes down. On either side are two dimmable LEDS that can crank out 2400 lumens, more than enough to illuminate anything around. 

Like the Ring Floodlight, the Nest camera needs to he hardwired to work, so it's less mobile than the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight, which runs on battery power alone. Still, you get a few niceties for free, including person detection, customizable motion zones, and (limited) local storage. Unless you need a camera that works with Alexa, this is definitely a floodlight camera to consider.

Read our full Nest Cam with Floodlight (wired) review .

8. Wyze Cam Floodlight

Like much of its competition, Wyze took its excellent Wyze Cam v3, added a few LEDs, and called it the Wyze Cam Floodlight. And, because the Wyze Cam is so inexpensive, so too is the Wyze Cam Floodlight, which costs less than $100 — a bargain compared to other security camera floodlights.

Despite its low price, we were generally pleased with the quality of video, though the floodlights tended to wash out people's faces if they got too close. If you have a second Wyze Cam, you can also connect it to the floodlight to increase your surveillance coverage. The cameras also have local storage, handy if your internet goes down. Like most other security cameras, you'll need to pay for Wyze Cam Plus if you want person and package detection, but at $1.99/month, it's far cheaper than others.

Read our full Wyze Cam Floodlight review .

9. Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera

For those who don't have an outdoor light fixture, the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight camera is the best option for adding an outdoor security camera with a floodlight. This battery-powered camera is simple to install, has a bright 2000-lumen light, and has a 2K camera that can digitally pan and zoom, so you can get a better look at who's outside.

However, you may also want to invest in a solar recharging panel, as we found that the camera's battery drains quickly, especially when using the floodlight. And, like many security cameras, you'll need to subscribe to Arlo (starting at $2.99/month) if you want to use all the camera's features. 

Read our full Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera review

Best cameras with professional monitoring

10. Deep Sentinel

The Deep Sentinel is more like a mini professionally monitored security system than a standalone security camera. That's because when the camera spot an intruder, it sends a live feed to a monitoring station. From there, a professional can sound an alarm on the camera, shout a warning, and if necessary, contact the police. 

This isn't cheap: In addition to the cost of the cameras ($499 for three cameras), you also have to pay a monthly fee of $50. And, the resolution of the video tops out at 480p, as it prioritizes the smoothness of the video stream over its definition.

You could spend a similar amount for the  best home security system , but they don't monitor your cameras as proactively as Deep Sentinel. But, they're the best home security cameras if you're looking for active monitoring. 

Read our full  Deep Sentinel review .

We've reviewed a lot of outdoor security cameras over the years at Tom's Guide. Here are some other cameras we also liked, but didn't quite make the cut for the best of the best.

• Wyze Cam v4 (★★★★☆): A truly excellent budget security camera that's water resistant, has 2.5K QHD resolution, AI motion tracking, and a built-in spotlight. This camera needs to be plugged in to work, and for this guide, we wanted to highlight battery-powered cameras which could be installed almost anywhere.
• Blink Mini 2 ( ★★★★☆): This compact budget camera is inexpensive, and has a small built-in light, color night vision, and is water-resistant. However, you need to have it plugged into an outlet for it to work, which can limit its placement. 
• Arlo Pro 5S 2K (★★★★☆): Arlo's cameras consistently deliver some of the best image quality we've seen from security cameras, the the 5S 2K is no different. However, the camera — as well as Arlo's subscription — is not cheap.
• Blink Wired Floodlight Camera (★★★★☆): Another inexpensive smart floodlight that costs less than $100. It's easy to install and has good video, but doesn't have as much smarts as Wyze's floodlight.

What to look for when buying an outdoor security camera

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Aside from price, there are a few things you'll want to consider when shopping for an outdoor security camera.

Weatherproofing: Any outdoor security camera should be protected against the elements. While they probably won't take to being dunked underwater, they should have some resistance to rain, sleet, and snow.

Battery powered: Many outdoor security cameras, such as the Arlo and Blink cameras, can run off battery power alone. That makes them easier to install, as you don't have to worry about running a power cord to the camera. However, this also means you'll have to either recharge or replace the batteries on a regular basis. Increasingly, companies are offering solar panels as optional accessories so you don't have to recharge the batteries as often.

Night vision: Almost all outdoor security cameras record good video during the daytime; it's nighttime video that really separates the haves from the have-nots. Most cameras use infrared lights to illuminate their subjects; better cameras will light the scene without blowing out the subject, so you'll be able to see details more clearly.

Extra lighting: Some outdoor security cameras, such as those from Ring and Arlo, have LED lights built in, so that at night time, you'll not only be able to see subjects more clearly, but you'll also be able to see better yourself if you're outside. Some have spotlights, which are good for a small area, while others have floodlights, which helps illuminate a yard. 

Storage and storage fees: Most security cameras now require a subscription to either use all their features or to store video in the cloud. You'll want to refer to our best security camera storage plans for more detail, but before choosing a security camera, think about how many other cameras (including the best video doorbells ) you're planning to install. The company that offers the best value depends upon how many cameras you want to use on your property. 

How we test the best outdoor security cameras

As with the best home security cameras, we test outdoor security cameras outside our homes. We see how well they record video during daylight hours and at nighttime, and look at the detail of the recorded video, as well as the accompanying audio.

We also evaluate the security cameras' apps and features; you should be able to easily schedule when the cameras turn on and off, as well as set things such as custom motion zones and sensitivity, so that a tree branch or passing car doesn't set it off. 

Better cameras will also let you filter for people, animals, vehicles, and packages, so that you only get the alerts you want.

If you have other smart home devices already installed in your house, you'll want to know how a security camera can interact with them, too. Many devices can be linked through Alexa or Google Assistant, so that if a security camera detects movement, it can trigger other lights to turn on, for instance.

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Michael A. Prospero is the U.S. Editor-in-Chief for Tom’s Guide. He oversees all evergreen content and oversees the Homes, Smart Home, and Fitness/Wearables categories for the site. In his spare time, he also tests out the latest drones, electric scooters, and smart home gadgets, such as video doorbells. Before his tenure at Tom's Guide, he was the Reviews Editor for Laptop Magazine, a reporter at Fast Company, the Times of Trenton, and, many eons back, an intern at George magazine. He received his undergraduate degree from Boston College, where he worked on the campus newspaper The Heights, and then attended the Columbia University school of Journalism. When he’s not testing out the latest running watch, electric scooter, or skiing or training for a marathon, he’s probably using the latest sous vide machine, smoker, or pizza oven, to the delight — or chagrin — of his family.

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• muttley28 I have been following tom's guides for some years and a couple of years ago invested in a quite expensive set of Arlo security cameras. Despite a disproportionately costly cloud subscription, as a warning system they are close to useless. What is the point of a notification that takes ten minutes to get to me. Someone in the garden ten minutes ago; or someone outside the front of the house even five minutes ago. It is not my internet or ISP at fault as my Ring doorbell is faultless. All I want is a system that will notify me quickly, and preferably record locally, without costly monthly charges. Can this be a part of further reviews. To be honest, the only good things about my Arlo system are the image quality and battery life. Even WiFi reception is patchy. Reply
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Best Travel Security Camera in 2024

Limited Time

What Are Cellular Security Cameras

Embarking on adventures is a thrilling aspect of life, but it's crucial to ensure the security of our possessions for complete peace of mind while traveling. That's where the best portable security solutions come into play, merging the convenience of portability with the robustness of home surveillance systems. Recognizing the undeniable importance of safety, we delve into the realm of travel surveillance technology to bring you the top security cameras for travel in 2024. With the latest travel security gadgets in hand, you can explore new destinations with confidence, knowing that your belongings are monitored and protected.

Why You Need a Reliable Travel Security Camera

When we think about traveling, our minds often paint pictures of relaxation and exploration. However, with excitement comes the responsibility of ensuring safety on-the-go. This is why equipping ourselves with reliable travel safety accessories becomes not just an option, but a necessity. In the ever-changing landscapes of travel, safeguarding belongings with portable surveillance devices is vital. The reality is that preventing theft on vacation goes beyond just being cautious—it requires the support of technology that keeps us one step ahead of potential threats.

Imagine the peace provided by a travel security camera that stands guard over your hotel room while you're out embracing the adventures of a new city, or that monitors your Airbnb stay as you sleep. These devices serve not only as a way to deter potential burglars but also as essential tools for recording evidence in the unfortunate event of a theft. Their presence is a statement that your valuables are not left to chance.

But the value of these devices extends beyond physical monitoring; the latest portable surveillance cameras offer remote access. This means we can check in on our possessions at any given moment, no matter how far we travel from them. Whether it's a check-in during a picturesque hike or a quick glance before the evening's escapades, this remote monitoring capability ensures continuous connection with what we've left behind.

In conjunction with remote viewing, the significance of having concrete video evidence cannot be overstated. Should an incident occur, a robust travel security camera acts as an eyewitness, offering irrefutable documentation that can streamline claims with travel insurance providers. In essence, it's not just about preventing the incident—it's also about efficiently managing the aftermath with solid, recorded evidence that can aid in recovery and reimbursement processes.

Travel Security Camera: Features That Matter

As we journey through the ever-evolving landscape of travel tech, it's evident that the cutting-edge features of security cameras are the bedrock of travel safety. Let's delve into the aspects that separate top-tier travel security cameras from the rest. When it's about preserving our peace of mind while traversing the globe, understanding the nuance of each feature becomes paramount.

Foremost, we consider the essential attributes that should be on every savvy traveler's checklist. High-resolution recording is non-negotiable for capturing clear footage, while an extended battery life ensures that the camera doesn’t sleep before you do. Moreover, various storage options allow for flexibility in how we save and access recorded data, while a wide field of view guarantees a more comprehensive visual coverage of our surroundings.

The proficiency of a security camera is dramatically augmented by motion detection cameras. These vigilant watchkeepers provide instant alerts, keeping us tethered to the security and status of our belongings, irrespective of our physical distance. Geofencing is another avant-garde tool, creating a virtual perimeter that, when breached, instantly notifies us — a digital fortification against the unwanted.

In the dimension of design, portability takes the forefront. Cameras like the ieGeek battery camera ZY-C1  epitomize the ideal travel guardian—lightweight, compact, and astonishingly seamless to set up. With such devices, we're not just carrying technology; we're carrying assurance that sets up in minutes and secures for days.

Lastly, the evolution of camera technology embraces smart connectivity features. Live streaming capabilities and two-way audio emerge as trends, offering not just surveillance but interaction. Integration with other smart devices melds our security system into a symbiotic digital ecosystem, enhancing our control and expanding our reach against potential security breaches. And with night vision capabilities, the cover of darkness is never a hindrance to our vigilance. Indeed, the confluence of these features defines not just a product, but a travel companion for the modern explorer.

Top Picks for the Best Travel Security Camera in 2024

In scoping out the best travel security cameras  for the upcoming year, we've encountered a wealth of options that promise to safeguard your sojourns with sophistication and ease. To ensure you're equipped with only the finest tools of surveillance, we've meticulously assessed the leading contenders in this field. Let's embark on a comprehensive overview of our top-tier selections.

The ieGeek battery camera ZY-C1  emerges as a stellar choice for travelers in search of a premium travel safety gadget . Renowned for its exceptional battery life, the ieGeek camera stands out as a stalwart sentinel, offering extended periods of monitoring without the need for frequent recharging. This feature alone makes it an invaluable asset for adventurers who may find themselves away from power sources for elongated stretches.

We appreciate not only the device's stamina but also its user-centric design. Intuitive to install and manage, the ieGeek ZY-C1 brilliantly addresses the nomadic nature of travel, granting instant peace of mind the moment it's positioned. Its lightweight yet durable construction ensures it can withstand an array of travel conditions, personifying reliability in every environment.

In this comprehensive exploration of the latest in travel safety, we've discovered that investing in the right security camera is not merely a matter of preference—it's a sound decision towards making travel safer. The illuminated journey through the best travel security cameras of 2024 has shown us that the technologies embodied in these devices are paramount in providing peace of mind with security cameras. For us adventurers who frequently leave the comfort of our primary residences, the value of this peace cannot be overstated.

As we reflect on the selections presented, it becomes clear that choosing the right security camera comes down to assessing the markers of reliability and innovation. The best travel tech investment isn't about choosing the most expensive item on the shelf; it's about finding that perfect match that aligns with our unique travel narratives and needs. Whether heading towards the tranquility of remote highlands or the bustling streets of an urban sprawl, the necessity of owning a robust security solution to accompany us is undeniable.

Finally, we affirm that the intertwining of smart technology and travel is not merely a trend; it's the new paradigm for modern travel safety. So let us embrace these advancements, stay ever-vigilant, and step confidently into our next journey, protected by the best travel security cameras of 2024. Here's to our adventures, shielded not by hope alone but by the staunch guardianship of innovative technology.

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• Travel Products
• Tech Essentials

The 12 Best Travel Cameras of 2024

Whether you’re shooting landscapes or cityscapes, these are the best travel cameras for capturing your memories.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips For Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Cameras let us snap scenes that inspire, places that take our breath away, and simple moments that make up the fabric of a destination through a single shot. Hefty camera bodies with giant lenses might seem like the obvious choice for top-notch photos, but for travel, they can be a bulky hindrance taking up too much packing space. Instead, consider your specific needs as a jumping off point when you're ready to shop for a new camera. Are you a hardcore adventurer? Are most of your travels long-haul trips? Are you a beginner or advanced photographer? These are all questions you should ask yourself to help narrow it down.

Whether you purchase a budget-friendly camera or something pricier, it'll be an investment — not only financially, but also in trusting your pick to properly capture once-in-a-lifetime experiences that don't come with do-overs. To help with your travel camera search, we also spoke to professional photographers Jonathan Pozniak and Viktoria North, as well as Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz, to get some expert advice on how to choose the best camera for you.

Best Overall

Sony alpha a7cr.

It’s compact in size but a powerhorse.

There’s only one SD card slot.

A full frame mirrorless camera with incredibly high resolution, the Sony Alpha 7CR is our top pick for a travel camera. The compact size makes it very portable, and the interchangeable lenses give you a lot of versatility for shooting everything from landscape or wildlife to portraits and city scenes. As a photographer, I love the intuitive design of the Sony Alpha series cameras and this one is no exception; auto-focus tracking is impressive, in-body image stabilization does not disappoint, and the battery life has improved significantly from earlier models. Track your subject with the smart eye detection, for humans and wildlife, including a special bird option. I also appreciate how customizable the settings and buttons are, making your photography shoots more efficient. In addition to having the capability of capturing high-quality photographs in both RAW and JPG files, this camera takes video in 4K too. Built-in WiFi and bluetooth capabilities make it easy to share photos or connect to a remote as well. For a professional quality camera that won’t take up too much space or weigh you down when traveling, this is our top choice.

The Details: Full frame CMOS (35.7mm x 23.8mm) sensor | 61 megapixels | 1/8000 to 30 seconds shutter speed | 4K video | 1.1 pounds

Best Action Camera

Gopro hero12 black.

It’s waterproof and weatherproof.

It doesn’t include a GPS component.

The rough and tumble GoPro Hero12 Black has long been one of the top action cameras, with its pocket-sized and durable design. With improved image stabilization and battery life, as well as the ability to handle hotter temperatures, this newest version is no exception. With so many accessories that can be purchased separately, this camera can be equipped for any adventure, big or small, cold or hot, wet or dry. I especially love the bite mount for capturing POV, hands-free shots, with my dog. This camera is so compact and portable, it’s perfect for travel. Anything you find yourself doing, from mountain biking or skiing, to snorkeling, or taking a sunrise timelapse, will be captured so vibrantly. Customize the frame rate and settings when capturing video, with the option for 5.3K video quality. You have the option to shoot in RAW or JPEG, though you can only use the wide angle when shooting RAW. Other cool features include the ability to use voice commands to take a photo or start video, and modes like HDR, sup slow motion movie, and star trails.

The Details: Size-unspecified CMOS sensor | 27 megapixels | 1/8 to 30 seconds in photo mode, 1/480 to 1/30 seconds in video mode shutter speeds | 5.3K + 4K video | 5.4 ounces

Best Budget DSLR

Canon eos rebel t7.

It's super affordable and user-friendly.

It's best suited for entry-level photographers.

With the Canon EOS Rebel T7, you can save your dollars without skimping on image quality, and there's not much more you can ask for in the DSLR world. Although there is a newer version of this camera ( EOS Rebel T8i ), the T7 is still the most budget-friendly device with features perfect for someone ready to branch out and learn the ins and outs of DSLRs. That being said, it's more suited for a beginner photographer who wants to amp up their game past smartphone photography . It's a fantastic camera to practice manual mode and learn how to adjust ISO, aperture, and shutter speed settings. Eventually, it's likely that you'll be ready to graduate to a more complex camera — but we all have to start somewhere, right?

Canon is well known for having a straightforward, easy-to-use system, which is a huge bonus for beginners. The LCD screen is helpful for navigating the menu and setting up images, though it does lack the luxury of touchscreen capabilities. Built-in WiFi allows for quick sharing between devices, so your amazing shots can be posted to social media platforms in a jiffy.

The Details: Cropped CMOS sensor | 24 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds bulb shutter​​ | Full HD video | 15.06 ounces (body only)

Best Budget Mirrorless

Canon eos r50.

It’s compact and lightweight, offering great value for its features.

Advanced photographers might prefer a camera with more bells and whistles.

The brand new Canon EOS R50 snags the spot for best budget mirrorless and doesn’t only promise great photo quality, but its video capabilities are fantastic as well. With 4K uncropped video and stellar subject detection and tracking at a friendly price point, this mirrorless model is a great everyday camera that’s ideal for everything from social media video captures to portrait and landscape shooting. Interchangeable lenses give you flexibility, and the compact design won’t weigh you down. Excellent auto-focus that can be tailored to detect humans, animals, and even vehicles is a major highlight, as is the 12fps (frames per second) burst mode. The touchscreen and creative assist mode make this a beginner-friendly camera as well as one that won’t break the bank.

The Details: Cropped CMOS (APS-C) sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/4000th sec - 30 seconds, in 1/3-step increments shutter speed | 4K video | 11.52 ounces

Best Retro Look

Fujifilm x100vi camera.

It has a timeless look with modern features.

Since it’s a limited edition model, there are only a certain number available for purchase.

We love how compact and sleek the limited edition FUJIFILM X100VI is, with the nod to nostalgia symbolized by the engraved original brand logo. This is our top pick for best retro-inspired camera, but if you can’t get your hands on one of these limited edition models, the FUJIFILM X-T5 is our next best bet. That being said, this model has fantastic low-light capabilities, in-body stabilization, 6.2K video capture, and improved in-body stabilization to minimize shaky shots. It has a tilting LCD touchscreen display, which I find makes it easier to snag those artistic selfies in the midst of epic landscapes or to get a solid group photo. The lens is a fixed 35mm lens. With the camera’s WiFi, it also uses an intuitive camera-to-cloud (c-2-c) system which automatically uploads content to the cloud-based platform. For a small camera with a "throwback" look that has amazing capabilities, this one is perfect for travelers as an everyday use tool.

The Details: APS-C X-trans CMOS 5 HR sensor | 40.2 megapixels | 1/4000 to 15 Minutes in manual mode shutter speed (mechanical), 1/180000 to 15 minutes in manual mode shutter speed (electronic) | 4K + 6K video | 1.1 pounds

Best Mirrorless for Beginners

The user-friendly design makes learning photography with this model much easier.

The flip screen tends to get in the way of a tripod attachment if you're using one.

We love how the Nikon Z50 is small enough to fit in your pocket, but don't be fooled by its size: it produces big-time quality images. "For those new to photography and video, this camera provides an exciting entry point. It's small enough to carry with you, but offers higher-quality images than your phone. This model is great to learn with as it incorporates many easy-to-use features, plus offers an automatic mode that senses different shooting scenarios and automatically adjusts the camera's settings (e.g., ISO range, exposure compensation) to deliver stunning results," Nikon's Cruz says.

The flip-down LCD screen is ideal for travel photographers and creators that want to take selfies, vlog, or include themselves for scale. The Z50 is also designed to save settings for both photo and video separately, so you don't have to worry about changing everything when you switch modes. With low-light capabilities, an easy-to-navigate menu, a sleek design, and 11 frames per second at full resolution, a beginner travel photographer will be hard pressed to find a better mirrorless camera.

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 20.9 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds, bulb, time shutter ​| 4K video | 14 ounces

Best DSLR for Beginners

Pentax pentax kf dslr.

It produces high-quality images at a more affordable price than most competitors.

The video capabilities aren’t that impressive.

For those interested in getting their feet wet with photography, the Pentax KF DSLR Camera is our top choice for its durable, weather-resistant body, vari-angle screen, and compact size despite DSLR cameras’ reputation for being hefty in general. It offers a solid grip, and longer battery life, as most DSLR’s do. Start learning the camera in automatic and make use of the manual controls as you learn photography. The large viewfinder is fantastic, and this particular model mixes modern mirrorless technology with the classic DSLR viewfinder by offering a live view in addition to the optical viewfinder. You’ll be able to mix and match your preferred focal lengths with this model as well, since it’s equipped for interchangeable lenses. For the price point, this newbie from Pentax is a solid entry level DSLR for travel that won’t take up a ton of space in your bag.

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/6000 to 30 seconds shutter in auto mode, 1/6000 to 30 seconds shutter in manual mode | 1080p HD video | 2.73 pounds

Best Mirrorless for Outdoor Photography

Om system om system mark ii.

The autofocus is fast.

The video capabilities aren’t as fast as other models.

The newest OM SYSTEM camera, the OM-1 Mark II Mirrorless model is a lightweight and compact, high-performing camera with durable construction and IP53 weatherproofing. This means it can withstand the elements when shooting landscapes or wildlife outdoors, including some rain, wind, and snowflakes. In fact, the camera is freezeproof, dust and splash-resistant, and can handle temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. The built-in stabilization is another key factor for outdoor and wildlife photographers, helping you to get the sharp image and assisting with longer exposures to minimize shake. The rubber control dials give you a little more grippy control when shooting, which is a nice additional feature that can go a long way. For a workhorse mirrorless travel camera that can hack it outdoors, this is a fantastic choice.

The Details: Cropped 17.4 x 13 mm (four-thirds) BSI MOS sensor | 20.4 megapixels | 1/8000 to 60 seconds shutter (mechanical), 1/32000 to 60 seconds shutter (electronic) | 4K video ​| 1.1 pounds

Best Splurge

Leica q3 digital camera.

It’s fast and performs well in most lighting conditions.

The front of the camera has a flat design, making it tricky to grip at times.

This pick is an upgrade to the Leica Q2 version of the company’s classic rangefinder camera, and we love how easy to use and versatile the Leica Q3 is across a wide array of shooting conditions. This fresh model allows for in-camera charging, which is a worthy upgrade from the previous one. The same full-frame capabilities are now paired with a powerhouse 60MP high-resolution sensor, hybrid AF (autofocus) system, and 8K video recording ability. The processing is speedy for both shooting stills and video, and boasts continuous shooting up to 15 frames per second. The fixed 28mm f/1.7 prime lens is impressive even in low light conditions, and a full battery charge will score you approximately 350 shots. The Leica Q3 is a great choice for intermediate to advanced photographers seeking high-end equipment for everyday purposes and professional jobs.

The Details: Full-frame BSI CMOS Sensor | 60 megapixels | 1/2000 to 1/2 second shutter speed, 1/2000 to 4 seconds in auto mode | 8K video at 30 frames per second, 4K video ​| 8.8 ounces

Best Underwater

Om system tough tg-7 black underwater camera.

It's tough and effective.

Divers should be aware that the waterproofing level only goes to 50 feet.

The upgraded Olympus Tough TG-7 is exactly what it claims to be: tough, rugged, and capable of taking superb underwater photos and videos. The solid handgrip does a great job giving you that extra security as you swim around and shoot the underwater world . New features added from the TG-6 include vertical video support, interval shooting, exposure smoothing, and USB-C connectivity for uploading content.

With a unique internal zoom mechanism, the 25–100-millimeter lens doesn't stick out from the camera body, keeping it watertight while you capture macro details of marine life from a safe distance. RAW shooting and 4K video make this not just any old underwater camera, but one with impressive capabilities. The super slow-motion mode is another favorite. It's rated as waterproof to 50 feet, making it the perfect companion for your snorkeling or free diving adventures . It's not just waterproof either; the shockproof design makes this camera perfect for ventures outside of the water as well. Bring it hiking, mountain biking, or just for a day at the beach without having to worry.

The camera is also easy to use, which is exactly what you want when you're shooting underwater. "I had fun with the Olympus TG-6 on assignment in Bora Bora. I'm a terrible swimmer so all I could do was click away and hope for the best. Thankfully it worked!" Jonathan Pozniak shares.

The Details: Cropped BSI CMOS sensor | 12 megapixels | 1/2000 to 1/2 second shutter, 1/2000 to 4 seconds shutter in auto mode | 4K video ​​| 8.8 ounces

Best Phone Lens

Moment tele lens.

It gives you 2x and 4x zoom capabilities when attached to single and multi-lens smartphones.

To achieve the 6x closer shot, you’ll need the Moment Pro Camera app.

Our top pick for a stand-alone extra lens to attach to your smartphone is the Moment T-series Tele 58mm lens, which allows you to zoom up to six times closer to your subject. As a standard, it also sits twice as close to the main camera lens of your phone. This allows for sharper shots versus using the zoom on your smartphone, which diminishes the resolution. Fantastic for landscape, wildlife, and portrait photography, this lens definitely elevates your smartphone photo game by offering more flexibility without sacrificing quality. Video will also benefit thanks to a beautiful bokeh effect and an overall cinematic vibe. This lens is easy to use, as it features a straightforward mounting process and quickly twists off. This lens is compatible with most phones, but it’s wise to consult the description before purchasing.

"For most people, a smartphone is all you need, but that may vary for each trip. If I'm out hiking for the day, my iPhone 12 Pro in my pocket is all I need, and the fact that it shoots RAW and video is a huge plus." Pozniak explains.

The Details: 58 millimeter | 300 line pairs per millimeter (axis), 200 line pairs per millimeter (edge) | 39.5 millimeter lens | 2.6 ounces

Best Pocket-Sized

Ricoh ricoh street edition.

It’s very lightweight and portable.

There is no viewfinder.

We love the pocket-sized, travel-friendly Ricoh GR III Street Edition Digital camera for everyday use and portability. It’s easy to use with straightforward settings, menu, and customization. I really appreciate a camera that starts up quickly so you don’t miss the shot, and this one fits the bill. It has the capability to capture both JPEG and RAW files and you can get creative with the built-in filters like monochrome, HDR tone, and negative film. A fixed 28mm equivalent lens makes it versatile enough for portraits as well as landscape and street photography. This camera lacks a built-in flash but it does come with a hot shoe so you can attach a compatible external flash to it, if you’re taking night shots. Image stabilzation and an impressive auto-focus help produce sharper images, and a decent battery life makes it possible to explore a new city all day without having to worry that you’ll run out of juice. Bluetooth and WiFi make it easy to share photos as well. 

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds shutter, 0.17 to 20 minutes shutter in time mode ​​| 1080p video ​​| 9.07 ounces

Tips for Buying a Travel Camera

Understand the specs.

"When you're thinking about buying a camera, it's important to understand what features and specifications complement your shooting style as well as the content you are looking to capture, whether it be still images, video content, or both," says Nikon's Mark Cruz. These are some of the specs you should consider before making a purchase.

Sensor size: Your camera's sensor is the rectangle that reads the image from your lens and dictates how much light and detail you're able to capture. The main sensor sizes to decide upon are cropped or full-frame, with full-frame cameras having larger sensors and the ability to produce higher image quality. Cropped frame sensors will get you a tighter frame, with magnification cropping the actual lens focal length by anywhere between 1.5x and 2x. This means that a 70-millimeter lens would be magnified to a 105-millimeter focal length with a crop factor of 1.5x. Common crop sensor sizes are APS-C and micro four thirds (1.6x and 1.5x).

There are advantages to purchasing a full-frame (35 millimeter) camera, though it will come with a heftier price tag. You'll experience sharper images with more crisp details, as well as less noise. Additionally, a full-frame sensor has excellent low-light capabilities, making it the ideal aspect for astrophotography . For landscape photography, the wider field of view is a major advantage of the full-frame sensor as well. If you're interested in professional photography, selling prints, or turning your shots into custom photo gifts , the full-frame sensor will be a good fit since it produces the highest possible quality images.

Megapixels: This is a measurement of the number of pixels the camera sensor has, with "mega" meaning "millions." Usually anything over 12 megapixels will get the job done. However, if you're planning on printing large-scale versions of your images for personal or professional use, the higher the megapixel count, the better. Most cropped sensor cameras have somewhere around 20–24 megapixels while full-frame cameras tend to have between 40 and 50 megapixels.

Shutter speed: This dictates the amount of time that your camera's sensor will be exposed to the light coming in. Faster shutter speeds such as fractions of a second are usually used for quickly moving subjects in order to freeze the motion in the photograph, while slower shutter speeds are typically used to capture things like the flow of a waterfall or the stars in the night sky by having it open and exposed for a longer period of time. When buying a camera, it's a good idea to purchase one with a wider range of shutter speeds to give you the most versatility. Typically, the range is between 1/4000 to 30 seconds. "Bulb" is available on some models and offers more than 30 seconds of exposure to light, usually for photographing the night sky.

Video shooting: The highest quality video on most cameras is 4K, which will give you superb quality. However, many still have full HD video at 1080p or 720p. If video is high on your priority list, 4K is certainly the way to go.

Weight: For travel cameras, this is one of the most important factors to consider. Most travelers want a camera that is lightweight for packing purposes and easy to carry around for the day. Think about if you are willing to lug a bigger DSLR or even a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses in order to have the option for high-quality images that can be printed at a larger scale. If that's more than you need, then a compact, point-and-shoot, or your own smartphone with extra lenses might be the best fit for you.

Buy for your skill level and purpose

While browsing for a travel camera, first assessing your skill level and main purpose for shooting will help narrow down your search considerably. If you're a professional photographer doing brand work with a hotel in a far-flung destination that will be used in marketing campaigns or billboards, your purchase will most likely look a lot different than if your goal is to get images for your travel-focused Instagram page or to simply share with friends and family via digital picture frames . As a beginner, you should purchase a camera aimed at that level of photography with some room to grow, so you can learn effectively without being overwhelmed.

Choose a camera that fits your life and travel style

Do you spend a lot of time outdoors or doing water-based activities, or are you mostly interested in food photography when you travel? All of these aspects will help you determine the right fit for you. As photographer Jonathan Pozniak shares, it's also about comfort. "All cameras are good nowadays, and all have fantastic features. So here's my rule of thumb: go to a camera store, and hold each one in your hand. Listen to the sound it makes, feel what the clicking of the shutter is like," he says. "How do your fingers glide across the buttons? It should feel like an extension of your arm. Be intuitive with it!"

The art of packing a camera involves cushioning and protection against the elements (rain, dust, dirt, etc.). A backpack designed for camera use with a rain cover is always a good idea, particularly if you're someone who will be exploring the outdoors. Camera cubes are great accessories that provide an affordable way to turn a bag you already have into a camera bag.

"When I'm not bringing a lot of gear/cameras, I love the camera cubes by Mountainsmith for the airport and plane. I usually keep the cube in my room with extra lenses and if I am doing a lot of walking, just pick one lens to use for the day (usually a 50 millimeter)," says North.

"While today's mirrorless cameras are rugged, it is best to pack them in a camera bag to ensure as much safety as possible and avoid any potential damage. You should also make sure to put the body cap on the camera to protect the sensor from getting dirty, scratched, or damaged while traveling," she adds.

"Circular Polarizer and a UV filter, a comfortable strap like the Peak Design SL-BK-3 Slide , a backpack clip like Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3 , and if you're heading somewhere with rain or snow in the forecast, Peak Design's shell ," says North.

You'll also definitely want something to backup all the incredible footage you'll be getting. "A portable hard drive for backups is essential! My heart crumbles when I hear stories of cameras and laptops getting stolen on the road. I've certainly experienced that myself. I make multiple backups each day and put each portable drive or thumb drive in a different bag just in case one gets lost or stolen," Pozniak shares.

Our experts also recommend making sure your batteries are fully charged before stepping out each day and bringing along a couple extras just in case.

Our experts had a lot to say when it came to the camera versus lens debate. "The camera and lenses are equally important, but it depends on what a person wants to capture," says Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz. "The lens is what creates a gorgeous blurred background or lets you get close to the action from far away, but the camera provides the autofocus performance and speed to get there. The most important factor for the quality of photos is how you, as the photographer, make the most of your equipment. Combining photography knowledge with a powerful, capable camera and sharp, versatile lenses will allow you to get the best content."

Meanwhile, professional photographer Jonathan Pozniak argues that they're equally important, and emphasizes keeping your lenses clean: "Both! But what's even more important is how you use it, how it feels in your hand, and I've gotta say it, how clean your lens is!"

Fellow photographer Viktoria North was adamant that lenses are her highest priority, and she has very good reasons for putting them at the top of her must list. "With even the most basic of digital cameras now having impressive MP counts and full size sensors becoming more common, good quality glass is most important for me," she says. "This is because I can achieve a specific feel to my images dependent on the lens. For example, a fixed 50 millimeter is going to allow me to capture my urban travels as my own eyes see things. If I also go fast on it, say F1.8, that means the background is going to be nice and blurred and keep the focus on my subjects. But if I'm traveling in some beautiful vast landscapes, I'd grab a zoom lens. This will allow me to compress the different levels of the landscape and or subject and create a lot of depth. You don't always have to go with a big lens like a 70–200mm. I hike and backpack with a 24–105mm F4 most often and when it's at 105mm, I can achieve some really great compression with it."

The main difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras is the tool or technology used to capture the image. A DSLR uses a mirror to reflect light onto the image sensor, but this makes a DSLR heavier and clunkier to carry around. They also usually only have an optical viewfinder which portrays more closely what the eye sees versus an electronic viewfinder on the screen. A mirrorless camera lets light directly hit the sensor, and typically has a live, electronic viewfinder so you can see the real time settings. Mirrorless cameras are more lightweight, therefore making them more portable and travel-friendly. They’re also quieter and faster due to the mechanism they use to capture light. DSLR cameras typically have a longer battery life and a wider array of lenses available, though with recent gains in technology for the mirrorless camera world, that’s changing.

Yes! They usually don’t have the highest megapixels and have a crop sensor, but you can still capture great photos. You may be limited to producing large scale prints, but, depending on the capabilities, you’ll be able to have prints made that are good quality in a fair amount of sizes. For online and social media, a point-and-shoot camera is perfect.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

A travel photographer herself, Lauren Breedlove used her personal experience with finding the right cameras and shooting in various conditions around the world. She also scoured the internet, researching and selecting the best cameras for travel, and interviewed professional photographers Viktoria North and Jonathan Pozniak , as well as Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz , to gather expert insights. Using all of these factors, she curated this list of the best travel cameras.

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• Home Safety

The Best Outdoor Security Camera

By Rachel Cericola

Rachel Cericola is a writer covering smart home. In addition to testing hundreds of smart devices, she has also tested dozens of ice cream sandwiches.

An outdoor security camera can keep tabs on welcome (and unwelcome) visitors, package deliveries, and furry creatures helping themselves to a midnight snack in your garden. They can also be a powerful deterrent to prospective mischief-makers.

However, after reviewing dozens of cameras over the past seven years, we have yet to find a perfect model. Some are hard to place, some need frequent charging, and others require a paid subscription to be most effective.

We recommend the Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera because it’s completely cord-free, it captures sharp 2K video, and it can accurately distinguish between people, pets, vehicles, and packages. It also works with more smart-home platforms than our other picks, but currently isn’t available as a single-camera purchase.

Everything we recommend

Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera

The best cordless outdoor wi-fi camera.

This battery-powered camera captures clear 2K video. The video storage subscription adds the ability to detect people, animals, vehicles, packages, and general motion.

Buying Options

TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free Magnetic Security Camera

Smart, but not quite as sharp.

This 2K camera offers excellent battery life, the option to store recordings locally or in the cloud, and the best array of customizations for the money.

With clipped on-page coupon

Eufy S221 EufyCam

Set it and forget it (for a while).

This camera offers long battery life, a clear 2K image, HomeKit support, and three options for storing video.

Things to consider

Being able to store recordings in the camera is common, however we recommend saving video to the cloud so it can be accessed if power goes down.

Wi-Fi cameras can catch action close to your house, but faces and license plates may be unclear—even great cameras may be fuzzy around 20 feet away.

Most companies will share your recordings if they receive a court order or determine it’s an emergency. Check your privacy policy and/or opt for devices with end-to-end encryption.

All smart cameras can detect motion, but some can also tell the difference between a person, pet, car, or package, and record or send notifications on which of those matter to you.

Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Apple Home (with a compatible base station), Google Home, IFTTT, Samsung SmartThings

The Arlo Pro 4 delivers the best combination of detailed video performance, specialized alerts, and easy installation. Currently, it’s only sold in multi-packs, which are more expensive and also require a pricier Arlo Secure subscription as a result. For $13 per month, you’ll get support for unlimited cameras, the ability to record clips, and the cameras gain the ability to distinguish between people, pets, packages, and vehicles. The Arlo Pro 4 delivers clear 2K video (2560×1440) day and night, including color video in the dark. It can record up to five minutes of continuous motion, though frequent motion triggers can quickly drain the battery—we found that it needs to be charged about once a month. The Arlo Pro 4 also offers a 24/7 recording option, but enabling that feature entails a higher subscription fee, requires an extra $150 to $200 in equipment, and is separate from Arlo Secure.

Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Google Home

The TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free Magnetic Security Camera is cheaper than any other camera on our list, and it offers the option for free local storage via a microSD card or a cloud subscription that can provide 30 days of storage for $3.50 per month or $35 per year. Even without a subscription, this camera can distinguish between motion, people, vehicles, and pets. And to limit the volume of nuisance recordings, you can create Activity Zones that tell the camera what it should and shouldn’t record—for example, you might have one zone triggered by vehicles and animals, and another zone that records only people. This TP-Link model also has notably strong battery life of up to 300 days, depending on use. In our tests, its image quality wasn’t as sharp as what we got from the Arlo and Eufy cameras. In addition, this TP-Link model is compatible with fewer smart-platform apps and doesn’t support geofencing.

Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home

Although it’s not quite as smart as our other picks, the Eufy S221 EufyCam has the best rechargeable battery we’ve seen on a cordless outdoor security camera. (The company claims that the battery can last a year; we experienced usage from four to 12 months, so it your results will depend on where you place your cameras and how often they’re triggered.) Free perks include the ability to record 2K video to storage in the included base station, as well as the ability to differentiate between humans and other moving things. To have your video sent to and stored in the cloud, you can opt for a paid subscription to either Eufy Cloud Storage ($3 per month) or Apple HomeKit Secure Video (free with iCloud plans that start at $1 per month); note that both services reduce video resolution from the original 2K to 1080p quality.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: arlo pro 4 spotlight camera, runner-up: tp-link tapo wire-free magnetic security camera, also great: eufy s221 eufycam, other good outdoor security cameras, the competition, what to look forward to.

I first started testing smart-home devices more than 20 years ago, when the only smart-home devices were X10 . I’ve been covering smart-home gear for Wirecutter since 2016, and I’ve had my hands on everything from in-wall light switches , smart strip lights , and smart bird feeders to video doorbells , indoor security cameras , and security systems . I’ve also written tech articles for The New York Times, Wired, and Men’s Health, among others.

Having problems with someone stealing packages off your porch, or a family of trash pandas enjoying your garbage cans? A Wi-Fi surveillance camera by your front door, over your garage, or attached to your back deck allows you to see what’s really going on outdoors. A camera not only alerts you to dangers and guests, but also creates a record of the events that happen all around the outside of your home—be it falling trees, floodwaters, or a neighbor’s unkind dog.

While outdoor cameras can do a good job as a sentry, they do have limitations.We found that most outdoor Wi-Fi cameras can detect movement as far as 30 to 40 feet away. But faces and license plates may start to get fuzzy around 20 feet away—and that number could drop substantially depending on lighting conditions.

If that’s not enough peace of mind, and you want to step it up to 24/7, all-bases-covered security, you should go with something that’s connected to a monitoring service. For more information on what’s out there, see our guide to the best home security system .

We’ve been reviewing outdoor cameras for more than eight years, and we’ve tested dozens of them. Here are the most important features that we consider.

• Image resolution: Most outdoor cameras stream and record 1080p or 2K video. Even at that resolution, however, details may not be as sharp as what you’d get with a typical smartphone camera—especially for subjects that are far from the camera. Also, streaming video chews up internet bandwidth, so be sure your home network is fast enough and has the capacity to support it.
• Night vision: All outdoor Wi-Fi cameras should have night-vision capability. Some even offer color night vision, which may add a bit of detail missed by cameras that capture only black-and-white video at night. The night-vision range can be a factor, depending on where you plan to place the camera.
• Alerts: A good outdoor security camera alerts your smartphone or tablet whenever it detects motion. Faster alerts are better, but their speed often depends more on the network you’re connected to than on the camera itself. We also looked for cameras that could distinguish between different causes of motion, such as a person, a vehicle, or an animal.
• Storage: Cloud storage (with video saved over the internet to a remote server operated by the manufacturer, instead of at your house) is the norm these days. Some cameras store recordings locally on a microSD card or a connected hard drive, but it isn’t of much help if someone steals the camera or you lose power.
• Audio: A good outdoor Wi-Fi camera should have a built-in microphone so you can hear chirps and chatter. Most also feature a speaker for two-way communication, allowing you to talk to whomever is in front of the camera.
• Smart-home integration: Most outdoor cameras offer some type of smart-home integration, such as support for Amazon Alexa, Apple Home (HomeKit), Google Home, IFTTT (If This Then That), Samsung SmartThings, and more. Those will allow you to view cameras on smart displays or trigger devices (such as smart lights) when the camera detects motion.

For testing, we connect all cameras to our Verizon Fios network via a Wi-Fi router indoors (approximately 40 feet from the cameras) and our upgrade-pick mesh-networking kit, the Asus ZenWiFi AX (XT8) . We used an iPhone 12, a Google Pixel 7 Pro, and an iPad to review the cameras and their companion apps. And we used an Echo Show 5, a Google Nest Hub, and an Apple TV to see how each camera can be controlled via third-party apps and viewed on smart screens.

The battery-powered Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera can be placed anywhere you like, so long as it’s within reach of your Wi-Fi signal. It records clear 2K video and has a rechargeable battery, which lasts one to two months, depending on usage. The Arlo Pro 4 also includes features such as color night vision and Auto Zoom and Tracking (which can digitally zoom in on moving objects and follow them while in view).

The Arlo doesn’t include free video storage, so count on adding a subscription to Arlo Secure , the company’s cloud-storage service. In addition to keeping video for up to 30 days, Arlo Secure enables features like Activity Zones and the ability to distinguish between people, pets, packages, and vehicles.

Audio and video please the eye and ear. The Arlo Pro 4 produced some of the best images of any outdoor camera we tested. It records 2K video and has a wide, 160-degree viewing angle. The two-way audio was easy to understand on both ends.

Arlo’s video-recording options are the best we’ve seen. You can set a recording length from 10 to 120 seconds long, but we prefer the “Record until activity stops” option, which records up to five minutes of continuous motion. If action goes beyond that, a new clip is recorded after a one- or two-second reset period. (According to Arlo, this reset is to keep the camera from creating lengthy clips where nothing happens and to conserve battery life.)

Alerts tell you more about what’s going on than just motion. To record video, you need an Arlo Secure subscription, which starts at $8 per month for a single camera or $13 for unlimited cameras. Arlo Secure also enables Activity Zones and the ability to distinguish between a person, animal, vehicle, or package delivery and sends a specific alert when one of those is detected—a nice perk that we found worked pretty reliably.

Installation and maintenance are hassle-free. Sleek, smart design and a removable battery make the Arlo Pro 4 easy to install anywhere outside—so long as it’s in range of a Wi-Fi signal. Arlo claims the camera battery can last six months on a full charge, based on the assumption of 4,000 seconds of use per month, 30 seconds per stream, and day/night events split 2:1. Based on our testing, those numbers seem to be accurate, though if you’re planning to put the camera in a high-traffic area or in super-cold temperatures (which can drain the battery), you may want to buy an extra battery or the Arlo Solar Panel Charger (which we have not tested). If you have a nearby outlet, you can opt to hardwire it with the 25-foot Arlo Outdoor Magnetic Charging Cable .

Advanced camera features work well, but at a cost. The Arlo Pro 4 has a bright, motion-activated spotlight for color night vision, which makes images slightly more vivid than simply using the two infrared LEDs for black-and-white night vision. There’s also an Auto Zoom and Tracking feature, which digitally zooms in on a moving object in the camera’s field of view and follows it around. This is an interesting and sometimes useful feature, though we wish it were slightly more fluid. Also, enabling this feature shortens battery life and lowers the resolution of recordings to 720p or less.

How the Arlo Pro 4 has held up

Senior staff writer Lauren Dragan said that while testing the Arlo Pro 4, she found that the low-battery alert tended to trigger when there was still about 20% left—which for her translates to a few more weeks of battery life. She came up with a good solution to alleviate the hassle of waiting around for the battery to recharge: “We bought a backup battery, and so we swap it with the old one when we get a low-battery alert, which works well.”

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Recently, Arlo stopped selling single units of the Arlo Pro 4, so you can only purchase it in a pack with 2, 3, or 4 cameras. That means you will need the unlimited tier of the Arlo Secure subscription plan, which starts at $13 per month (or $150 per year).
• Arlo allows you to log in on only one device at a time. If you typically use an iPhone and opt to check cameras on an iPad, for example, it will log you out of your original device—and it requires two-factor authentication for you to log in each time. This is a safety measure, but it’s one that you can bypass by creating a guest login for your separate devices.
• Support for Apple Home requires adding the Arlo SmartHub . This unit allows you to view and control the camera using Siri and the Apple Home app, but it doesn’t allow use of HomeKit Secure Video.
• Although the Arlo Pro 4 can distinguish between people, pets, packages, and cars, the camera can tag recordings with only one label at a time. For instance, if a car goes by, it will tag that clip as “vehicle detected.” If a person walks in front of your camera 10 seconds after the car passes, the Arlo Pro 4 will still tag that clip as a vehicle. If you have your system set to deliver alerts for only certain types of motion, such as people, you could potentially miss a visitor.
• We would love the camera’s battery life to be closer to Arlo’s claims, but you can lengthen the time in between charges by making a few tweaks or turning off the spotlight.

The TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free Magnetic Security Camera is a cord-free 2K camera with image detection that allows it to distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals. Despite those top-shelf features, it has a lower cost of ownership than our top pick. You can store video recordings on a microSD card, or, if you add a subscription, they’ll upload automatically to the cloud. The image quality is good but not as sharp as what we’ve seen from our top pick, and the Tapo also doesn’t support as many smart-home platforms. In addition, unlike our top pick, it can’t specifically detect packages, but you can customize Activity Zones to function as a useful alternative (see below).

You pay less to own and use this model in comparison with other picks. A single camera is usually under $100, and a three-pack runs about the same (or less) than a two-pack of our top pick, making the Tapo an outright bargain. We were pleased to find that the Tapo Care cloud subscription is also competitively priced ($3.50 per month or $35 per year for one camera, rising to $12 per month for up to 10 cameras). We also appreciate that the Tapo offers the same feature set—motion alerts, Activity Zones, and Privacy Zones—whether you opt to pay for cloud storage or not. (Note that we strongly recommend doing so.)

Activity Zones are unexpectedly useful. By creating Activity Zones using the smartphone app, you can designate areas within the camera’s view to ignore and areas to focus on. Unlike other cameras we’ve tested, though, the Tapo lets you create unique filters for each zone, which we found unexpectedly useful.

For instance, you might designate one zone to be triggered by one type of motion—a vehicle or person—and the other zone might be triggered only by animals. In our tests, we monitored a driveway for incoming cars, people, and animals, and we successfully filtered out the traffic beyond our property. The feature works extremely well.

Installation is flexible and simple. The combination of the Tapo’s modest dimensions and its magnetic mount make it dead simple to set up, and they also make fine-tuning where you direct its gaze uncomplicated. We always recommend mounting a security camera up high and out of easy reach if it will be in an area where someone might attempt to swipe it. (Purchasing a cloud subscription is another good fail-safe against theft, as all your recordings are stored safely online.)

The battery life is pretty good. TP-Link claims that you should get about 300 days or six months of use on a full charge. That’s only an estimate, as camera battery life greatly depends on where the camera is mounted. In our testing the Tapo faced chilly New England winter temperatures in an area that gets a normal amount of foot traffic, and we found that we would get closer to two to four months. Although that is less than TP-Link’s claim, for a battery-operated camera in general such results are really good and better than what we got from the Arlo model, though not as good as the Eufy camera’s battery life. We’ll continue to test the battery life, and we’ll update this guide as necessary.

The image quality is good, if not exceptional. Like the Arlo Pro 4, the TP-Link Tapo records 2K video at 2560×1440 resolution. Despite those impressive technical specs, we found that its recordings were noticeably less sharp than those from the Arlo and Eufy models, especially when the camera recorded using night vision. And while the included color night vision usually makes nighttime imagery better, we found that it made both live-view video and recordings noticeably grainy. Still, the image quality was perfectly good considering this camera’s price.

The Eufy S221 EufyCam , a kit with two identical EufyCam Pro cameras, has the best battery life of any of our picks. The cameras capture excellent 2K images and offer more recording options than our other picks, including free local storage, as well as paid cloud subscriptions via Eufy’s cloud plan or Apple HomeKit Secure Video. However, this system is the only one of our picks that also requires that you use a base station. We also discovered that the system automatically downgrades video resolution to 1080p if you opt to use cloud storage.

Battery life is phenomenal. Eufy claims that its cameras can last 365 days on a full charge, which means you can truly set it and (mostly) forget it. In our original testing, we estimated that the battery could last anywhere between four and 12 months, depending on alert frequency. However, the battery isn’t removable, so it can’t be replaced.

There’s free storage or a paid option—which we recommend. You can set clips to record in 20- or 60-second increments or customize them for any length up to two minutes. (We preferred the latter, since the system often left gaps in between clips of around 10 seconds.) Footage is then stored for free in the included 16 GB base station, which Eufy says should hold about two to three months’ worth of 2K footage (or four to five months’ worth of 1080p video). We recommend cloud storage , however, which is available through the Eufy cloud plan; it starts at $3 per month per camera. Alternatively, if you have an Apple iCloud plan of 50 GB or more (starting at 99¢), you can use HomeKit Secure Video —although both cloud plans store video at only 1080p resolution, we found the video to be clear and vibrant.

Both audio and video recording are great—object detection less so. Recordings were always sharp (both in 2K and 1080p), audio was clear, and smartphone alerts often arrived within 3 seconds of motion. However, it can only distinguish between people and general motion—and occasionally got that wrong. (A few times, it tagged a tire as a person.)

How the S221 EufyCam has held up

Senior staff writer Joel Santo Domingo has been using the S221 EufyCam since 2021. “My only complaint is that over long range (about 25 feet), the garage camera has trouble capturing people’s faces. It’ll report human motion, but many times it can’t resolve a face. I chalk it up to a quirk in my driveway’s layout.”

We tested a number of outdoor security cameras that we didn’t prefer as much as our current top picks but that are still good choices. Note that we do not long-term test these models (which we do with our top picks).

For 24/7 cloud recording: We like the Google Nest Cam (battery) when it’s plugged into an outlet—and if you plan to do that, spring for the optional weatherproof cable or get the Google Nest Cam with Floodlight . The 1080p floodlight has a modern design, a brightness of 2,400 lumens, and a 4,000 K color temperature. If you opt for just the camera, the included cord isn’t weatherproof and is a short 3 feet, which may limit where you can install it. When it’s corded or installed with the floodlight, you can record 24/7 (with a Nest Aware plan), and we thought the camera delivered better, more-reliable alerts overall when plugged in.

If you prefer to stick with Ring: The Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In is a previous pick with an 8-foot cord for indoor use and a 14.5-foot IPX5-rated extender for outdoor use, and it also supports a battery or a solar panel . It’s no longer a pick because it lacks a few features that our current picks have, yet Ring has raised its subscription costs a bit. Although the Stick-Up Cam can detect people and general motion, it’s unable to differentiate between animals and vehicles. It also doesn’t let you opt to have a clip automatically stop recording after a motion trigger has ended; instead, it limits you to picking from preset lengths.

If you have poor outdoor Wi-Fi range: The Arlo Go 2 works with both Wi-Fi and add-on 4G LTE plans, but the latter cost more and are available only via Cellcom, T-Mobile, US Cellular, and Verizon. This 1080p model has a smaller viewing angle than our top cord-free pick (130 degrees versus 160). It adds in the option to record for free to a microSD card, but at the expense of losing Arlo Secure features, which require a subscription.

If you don’t have an existing outdoor light: The Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera uses a removable, rechargeable battery to blast a bright 2,000 lumens of light—and up to 3,000 if you hardwire it. In our tests, its daytime 2K video was very good. Nighttime images weren’t as reliable, unless the subject was standing directly in front of the camera (which is fine since this model is best for focusing on a specific area, like a front porch or near trash cans). After months of testing it, we expect the battery to last about three months, depending on usage.

If you want a cord-free upgrade: The EufyCam S330 costs about 50% more than our already-pricey also-great pick but includes the updated HomeBase S380 Hub and two 4K solar-powered cameras , as well as facial recognition and vehicle and pet detection. We had a few issues with the solar panel needing to be in direct sunlight and the battery not being as strong as those in other Eufy models. Also, despite being so smart, the system still manages to tag tires as people—a common issue with Eufy cameras.

We have paused all testing and recommendations of Wyze smart-home devices due to security concerns. For a full explanation, see this article .

The Logitech Circle View and Eve Outdoor Cam both work with Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video, a service that has a lot to offer but in our testing missed a lot of action—sometimes for even hours or days at a time.

Our current picks offer a better value than the Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera , the Arlo Essential XL Outdoor Camera , the Arlo Pro 3 , the Arlo Pro 5S 2K Spotlight Camera , the Blink Outdoor 4 , the Eufy SoloCam S230 , the Noorio Spotlight Cam B211 , the Philips Hue Secure Wired Camera , the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro , the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro , the TP-Link Tapo C120 , TP-Link Tapo C325WB , and the TP-Link Tapo C420S2 due to features and/or performance.

A number of cameras we have tested were plagued by false alerts, including the  Tapo C310 Smart Outdoor Home Security WiFi 2K Camera  and the Tapo C320WS Smart Outdoor Home Security WiFi 2K QHD 4MP Camera .

We dismissed the Cync Outdoor Wired Smart Camera , the EZVIZ C3X , the Netatmo Presence , the Nooie Pro Cam , and the Swann CoreCam Pro  due to poor audio and/or video performance. And the Abode Cam 2 , the Blink Wired Floodlight Camera , the Blink Outdoor , the Swann Wireless 1080p Security Camera , and the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro Battery missed a lot of events and/or left lengthy gaps in between motion recordings. We also dismissed the Reolink Argus 3 Pro because it’s not rated to operate in temperatures of less than 14 degrees Fahrenheit, which means it isn’t useful for a large swath of the country. We also cut the Canary Flex due to its poor battery power and connection issues.

After 20 months of periodic use, our test unit of the Eufy S330 Floodlight Cam suffered a water leak and no longer functions. We contacted customer service, who determined that the unit was defective but would not replace it since it was outside of its one-year warranty period.

Other models we’re planning to test:

• The Abode Edge Camera is the first to incorporate ultra-long-range HaLow wireless, which has a range of more than a mile. This camera also has a rechargeable battery, object detection, facial recognition, and anomaly detection.
• The Blink Mini 2 , a $40 plug-in 1080p indoor/outdoor camera, offers a 143-degree field of view, a built-in LED spotlight for color night vision, privacy and activity zones, and person detection—but the last feature is available only with a Blink subscription plan, which starts at $3 per month. The Blink Weather Resistant Power Adapter is available for an extra $10.
• Eufy’s SoloCam S340 is a $200 wireless model that has two lenses: one with a wide-angle 3K resolution and one with a 2K telephoto lens. It also offers a 360-degree field of view, color night vision, and a removable solar panel.
• The Eufy Floodlight Cam E340 is a $220 camera that offers a 360-degree view, two lenses (one with a 3K resolution and one with 2K), and a 2,000-lumen integrated spotlight. It also features dual-band Wi-Fi and the ability to track people, pets, and vehicles.
• The Philips Hue Secure Floodlight Camera is a 1080p camera with a tunable color floodlight. Like the Philips Hue Secure Camera, it features E2EE encryption and smart alerts.
• TP-Link’s Tapo C428 KIT , a 2K QHD camera that uses smart AI detection for people, pets, and vehicles, is powered by an attached solar panel and has an IP66 weatherproof rating. The TP-Link Tapo C402 KIT is a 1080p version of the C428; the TP-Link Tapo C425 KIT is also similar but includes built-in spotlights.
• The TP-Link Tapo C720 Smart Floodlight Camera is an outdoor 2K QHD security camera with a 2,800-lumen adjustable floodlight, an IP65 weatherproof rating, and smart AI detection with motion tagging for people, pets, and vehicles.

This article was edited by Jon Chase and Grant Clauser.

Meet your guide

Rachel Cericola

Rachel Cericola is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter who has been covering smart-home technology since the days of X10. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Wired, Men’s Health, USA Today, and others. She hopes her neighbors read this bio because it would explain why she always has four video doorbells running simultaneously outside her home.

Further reading

The Best Security Cameras for Your Home

by Rachel Cericola

Wi-Fi security cameras can help protect your family and possessions. We’ve reviewed and picked the best models for every area of your home.

The Best Home Security System

A good home security system should make it easy to find peace of mind. It can alert you to an open door or window, frighten away prowlers, and call for help.

How to Clean Your Home Security Cameras

You should occasionally clean your Wi-Fi cameras to keep them free from dead bugs, water stains, and other debris that might alter their function.

How to Use Your Home Security Cameras Better

Getting a home security camera is great, but it’s only the first step. To make it effective, you’ll need to adjust these settings.

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Best Travel Cameras

A small one that captures great images can be the perfect partner for your next vacation

When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more .

An ideal travel camera is compact, lightweight, and versatile. And while the smartphone in your pocket may be all of those things, it's not quite up to snuff for the challenging photographic situations you encounter on vacation.

A dedicated camera, including today's superzoom and advanced point-and-shoot models , simply takes better shots than even the best smartphone camera . It creates images with higher resolution, more accurate color, and finer details even in low-light conditions. And given what you're paying for your vacation, why not use a camera that will let you capture and share awesome images?

Today's small cameras also feature versatile lenses that allow you to zoom easily from wide angle to telephoto. But in the interest of compact packaging, they may sacrifice certain features, such as interchangeable lenses and a hot-shoe mount for attaching a powerful external flash unit.

Our list of the best travel cameras doesn't include any DSLR models . The most dedicated amateur photographers may pack one of those for an extended trip, but for the average consumer, a DSLR isn't ideal, mainly because it's typically bulkier and heavier than other options.

Go to Consumer Reports’ 2018 Holiday Central for updates on deals, expert product reviews, insider tips on shopping, and much more.

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III

Canon PowerShot D30

Canon PowerShot SX730 HS

Fujifilm X-T20 w/ 16-50mm OIS

An Agile, Advanced Point-and-Shoot

This powerful point-and-shoot simply takes great photos and video. The built-in Zeiss lens has a bright f/1.8 maximum aperture, allowing for photos with almost no visual noise even in extreme low-light situations. At 10 ounces (with battery, memory card, and strap), the camera is lightweight, which is a big plus whether you're hiking up a mountain or strolling down a busy city street. It has built-in image stabilization and a convenient pop-up electronic viewfinder, which is a rarity in cameras of this size. And the large, swiveling liquid crystal display (LCD) is handy for composing and reviewing photos.

As a wireless model, it can easily transfer images to your phone or computer through an app, too.

But like most of the cameras on this list, the Sony lacks a hot-shoe mount, so you'll have to make do with the onboard flash if you're shooting in low light.

The Waterproof Wonder

If you're looking for a camera that's rugged and waterproof and also takes decent pictures, check out this 8-ounce Canon point-and-shoot. It allows you to dive deeper underwater than any camera in its class—down to a depth of 82 feet—and the manufacturer claims it can withstand a drop of more than 6 feet. The still images and video quality are good, especially for a camera at this price. The PowerShot D30 has a built-in flash, 5x ultrawide angle zoom lens, and built-in GPS unit, which lets you geotag your photos.

A Super Superzoom

This 11-ounce Canon superzoom packs a lot of versatility into a small package. For $400 you get a camera that produces impressive images and features a very long optical zoom lens (40x optical or 24-960mm). This makes it a great option for not only up-close shots of sporting events and wildlife but also wide-angle shots of landscapes and groups of friends.

The Canon also offers nice extras, such as image stabilization, a swiveling LCD, and a pop-up flash.

Before you buy, though, you should know that this Canon lacks a viewfinder and its video quality is a bit lackluster.

The Nimble Mirrorless

This Fujifilm camera delivers photos with lots of detail, with and without a flash. At 14 ounces, it's also the lightest mirrorless camera recommended in our ratings, with one of the longest-lasting batteries, too, good for about 350 shots. Our testers found that photos shot in low-light conditions had little visual noise. However, the model does stumble a bit when recording video. It has image stabilization, WiFi connectivity, a convenient pop-up flash, a hot-shoe mount, and a large, swiveling LCD. And unlike the other cameras on this list, this mirrorless model lets you swap out lenses , so you always have the best option for capturing the rhinos on safari or taking wide-angle shots of your daughter's kickflip.

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Pentax KF w/ 18-55mm

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Room Security Cameras: Top 2 Picks, Legal Advice & Useful Tips to Secure Your Rooms

Room security cameras can not only offer you peace of mind to keep tabs on your elderly parents and children when you are absent…

And also catch the thieves or bad roommates in the act if you are suffering loss by theft at dorms rooms or rental rooms.

In this post, you will find the best room CCTV cameras that fit your needs and learn how to apply room security cameras without breaking privacy laws.

• Legal Advice on Using Security Cameras for Rooms
• Top Picks of CCTV Cameras in Rooms
• Tips on Applying Room Security Cameras
• More Practical Tips to Secure Your Rooms

Is It Legal to Set Up Room Security Cameras

“Is it illegal to have room security cameras in a rental house?” “If someone were to steal something and I caught it on a room CCTV camera, could I show the footage to the college or the authorities?”

Before setting up security cameras for rooms, you may have to first solve the legal issues whether you are allowed to do so by authorities or by law. To ease your burdens, we have listed three legal advice on the usage of single room security cameras.

Editor’s Note: All the advice below applies to room security cameras for dorm rooms, hotel rooms, living rooms, server rooms, reception and waiting rooms.

Advice 1. Obtain Agreement from All Parties Involved Before Using Small Room Security Cameras

Generally speaking, it is legal to install security cameras for rooms to monitor your dorm rooms, hotel rooms, living rooms or baby rooms.

However, disputes may arise when you use room security cameras inappropriately.

To avoid such conflicts, you’d better ask for explicit consent from all concerning parties in advance.

For example, before setting up room security cameras for dorm rooms or rental rooms, you may get permission from your schools and roommates first.

Even when you are going to install room CCTV cameras at home, you shall communicate with your family members in advance as well (check here to see whether parents can put room security cameras in children’s rooms).

Editor’s Tip: If you are using battery-powered room security cameras for single rental rooms, it is not necessary to inform the landlords since you won’t drill holes or damage the interior decorations.

Advice 2. Apply Security Cameras for Rooms without Intruding on Privacy

Everyone enjoys reasonable expectation of privacy to keep his/her affairs from being exposed to the public and someone who intrudes on other’s privacy can be held liable.

In our case, it means that you should not install room security cameras in places for intimate purposes, such as dressing rooms, bathrooms or restrooms. Or else, you will be held legally responsible.

For room security cameras installed in average rooms, you may adopt a practical solution to turn the cameras on only when the rooms are unoccupied. By doing so, you are able to secure your properties and respect others’ privacy as well.

Advice 3. Consult Local Laws or Attorneys Before Setting Up Room Security Cameras

When you are planning to install room security cameras, you should pay special attention to the regulations on video and audio recording as well.

For example, the law on recording conversation (audio recording) varies in multiple states of America. Some states like New York and Wisconsin require consent from one party including you, while other states like California and Massachusetts require consent from all parties to the conversation.

You may check here for more details of the law on recording conversation in all 50 states of the United States. Or, you may consult local attorneys for a clearer explanation of using room security cameras.

Top Picks of Room Security Cameras

Are you in need of room security cameras for dorm rooms or hotel rooms?

Or, you want security cameras for baby rooms and living rooms to check in when you are absent?

Either way, you will find the most cost-effective and versatile options below that meet your needs.

Portable and Small Security Cameras for Dorm Rooms & Hotel Rooms: Reolink Argus 3 Pro

Flexible and portable security cameras for hotel rooms are preferred by most users.

By applying this type of room security cameras, you can monitor the hotel rooms, dorm rooms and even baby rooms without time-consuming setup procedures.

What’s more, you can take them with you when you check out of the hotels or move to other dorms and place them to anywhere as you wish.

Reolink Argus 3 Pro, with 2K resolutions and starlight night vision, can be your ideal room security camera.

Nice-to-Have Features:

Editor’s Note: With the brilliant starlight night vision, Reolink Argus 3 Pro is also a perfect grow room security camera for plant growth monitoring. If you worry that if the infrared light (IR) of the security cameras for rooms will harm plants, you may check here to learn the explicit answer.

Here is a video sample showing the excellent night vision of this dorm room security camera.

2K 100% Wire-Free Spotlight Camera

2K 4MP Super HD, Battery/Solar Powered, Person/Vehicle Detection, 5/2.4 GHz Dual-Band WiFi, Color Night Vision, Two-Way Audio.

Bang-for-Buck Reception, Server Room & Living Room Security Camera: Reolink E1 Zoom

When it comes to living room security cameras, a wide field of view and a decent look become the most wanted features.

These cameras are less noticeable so visitors or guests won’t feel like they are being watched. The same applies to security cameras for baby rooms, server rooms and reception rooms as well.

Reolink E1 Zoom, a small and portable room security camera with PTZ, can be your perfect security option.

PTZ Wireless Smart Home Camera

Smart, Powerful and Affordable All-Round Home Protection. 355° Pan and 50° Tilt; 5MP Super HD, 3X Optical Zoom, Two-Way Audio, 2.4/5 GHz WiFi, with Google Assistant Integration.

Tips for Applying Small Room Security Cameras

Picking out the best room security cameras is not the end to secure your hotel rooms, dorm rooms or living rooms. To get more out of the CCTV cameras for rooms, you can take the following tips into consideration.

Tip 1. Choose DIY Room Security Cameras for Dorm Rooms

At present, top security cameras brands have launched reliable dorm room security cameras with easy configuration. By installing security cameras for rooms on your own, you can not only save installation fees but also know better how these cameras work.

Besides, hiring an installer to set up room security cameras is not a one-for-all solution. Installers may not understand your needs completely, so it is possible that they won’t do the job right or damage the interior decoration of your rooms.

Tip 2. Set Up Room Security Cameras Without Routers/Internet

Routers are not accessible in some hotel rooms and students’ dorm rooms, but you are still able to set up security cameras without routers .

By storing recordings to SD cards or connecting your cameras to a PC, you can enjoy peace of mind to monitor with portable security cameras for hotel rooms and dorm rooms.

Also mind that you can only record videos locally to the SD cards but not access the room security cameras remotely without the network connection.

Tip 3. Protect Your Privacy When Using Security Cameras for Rooms

Currently, news on how hackers abuse hotel room security cameras can be seen from time to time. Without data encryption technology, room security cameras are more vulnerable to hacking and likely to be exposed to the public.

Hackerproof room CCTV cameras, like Reolink cameras, shall apply security settings like SSL encryption, WPA2-AES encryption, and SSL-TLS enabled. Meanwhile, with a little effort, you can secure WiFi enabled room security cameras on your own and make them hacker-resistant.

If, unluckily, your security cameras for rooms have been hacked (check here to see how to tell), you need to contact the CCTV camera manufacturers as soon as possible to get the issue solved.

More Tips on Securing Your Rooms Without Using Room Security Cameras

In addition to using room security cameras, there are other practical methods to increase security in your dorm rooms, living rooms and rental properties.

Tip 1. Beef Up Your Doors and Windows

Supposed that none of the entry and exits are secured in your rooms, it is meaningless to apply CCTV cameras for rooms at all. To secure your doors and windows, you may add deadbolt locks and chain locks to your doors and add locks and bars to the windows.

Tip 2. Organize Your Valuable Items

Getting self-belongings well organized is always a good idea especially when you put expensive things in your dorm rooms or hotel rooms.

By drawing a name list and place valuable possessions in specific positions, you will make better management and come to realize once they were missing.

Tip 3. Purchase Insurance for Valuable Items

Buying rental insurance for your expensive belongings is also worthy of your investment. There is a wide range of insurance for you to choose from and with the right insurance, you won’t lose everything if, unfortunately, someone breaks in your rooms.

Need some help on room security cameras? Leave your comments below and we would love to help!

• Reolink Argus Track Review: Digging Deep
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Lorenz is an independent writer who is keen on security industry. She also loves to share new ideas and information of security life with readers.

5 Best Outdoor Security Cameras, Tested and Reviewed

Keep an eye on your backyard, 24/7.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Ring spotlight cam pro.

Wyze Cam v3

Best Outdoor Video Doorbell Camera

Google nest doorbell (battery).

Not only are outdoor security cameras handy for the video footage they record, which you can access directly on your smartphone, but they're relatively easy to set up and oftentimes battery-powered so you don't have to fuss with cables or outlets. And thanks to durable, weather-resistant design, you can leave them outside year-round.

The test engineers and tech experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test all types of home security devices throughout the year, from video doorbells to pet cameras , smart locks , smart garage door openers and more. To narrow down the best outdoor security cameras, we relied on data collected from tests of more than 25 home security cameras in the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab as well as firsthand tester feedback on factors like ease of use, accuracy of alerts and much more.

Once you've checked out our top picks below, continue reading for more shopping tips on how to find the best outdoor security camera for you.

A top-performing home security brand in our Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab tests, you can count on this outdoor camera from Ring to spot any animals, intruders or visitors outside your home thanks to clear 1080p resolution and color night vision. Unlike indoor security cameras, this one features two LED spotlights to help light up dark walkways or corners and can handle temperatures well below freezing.

On top of simple setup and an easy-to-use battery-powered design (that’s right, no need for messy cables!), we love the Spotlight Cam Pro’s “Bird’s Eye View,” a feature that provides an aerial view of your home and surrounding areas. Reliable and responsive motion detection is another bonus, but keep in mind that a Ring Protect Subscription for $4.99 per month is required for access to video history.

This no-frills camera from Wyze works just as well indoors as it does outdoors and at a fraction of the price of more premium models . While its main downside is that you have to keep it plugged in and an outdoor power adapter is required for outdoor use, our pros love that it comes with many of the features you need in a quality surveillance device — color night vision, 1080p resolution and an IP65 rating that means it’s been tested to withstand most weather conditions like rain. Wyze also offers one of the more affordable subscriptions around at only $2.99 per month, or you can go subscription-free with the purchase of a Wyze microSD card .

Don't be fooled by this doorbell's sleek, minimalist design. A top performer in our video doorbell tests, the Nest keeps track of any visitors, deliveries or more to your doorstep .

It impressed our pros with crisp night vision, a wide field of view and excellent motion detection with timely and accurate alerts. Plus, the Google Home app makes it easy to navigate to your video footage and review any event history. But for more than three hours of video history, you’ll need to subscribe to Google’s Nest Aware plan for a minimum of $8 per month.

If you do spring for the subscription plan, it will cover any Google Nest cameras in or around your home. In that case, another one to consider is the Nest Cam with Floodlight , which not only notifies you when it detects possible trespassers, but also shines a pair of bright LED lights on the area, so you can monitor the situation from anywhere.

Eufy S230 SoloCam (SoloCam S40)

If top-notch resolution is a priority to you, look no further than this camera from Eufy that records crisp 2K footage. It also features one of the highest IP ratings on this list at IP67, meaning it should be among the most durable. In recent Lab tests, our pros were not only impressed by the camera’s video quality but also appreciated the built-in 600 Lumens spotlight that wil shine a light on any visitors approaching your home.

Even better is the fact that it’s solar powered so all it requires is around two hours of sunlight per day for continuous power (though you can rely on the battery if needed). Finally, no subscriptions are required since the camera stores up to 8GB of footage locally, which should amount to about two months worth of video history.

Arlo Pro 4 Wireless Security Camera

Though the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have recommended this compact security camera from Arlo for indoor use thanks to its exceptional performance in Lab tests, it's just as suitable for keeping an eye on outdoor spaces. According to testers, installation is a breeze, resolution is clear and a spotlight is integrated . There’s even a built-in siren you can activate from the app should someone be trespassing (or your dog is trying to escape). For the best features, including recording in 2K resolution, you’ll need a $7.99 per month Arlo Secure subscription, but we think that’s a price worth paying for Arlo’s reliable performance both indoors and out.

How we test outdoor security cameras

The engineers and experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab test all types of surveillance electronics and smart home devices . To find the best security cameras on the market, we evaluated more than 25 models in our most recent tests, evaluating each one for video and audio performance, ease of installation and operation, app intuitiveness, motion detection, night vision and IP ratings or weather-resistance claims.

We also considered extra features such as smart home compatibility, video storage, subscription plan options and alert sensitivity. In addition to in-Lab evaluations, we sent security cameras home with our consumer testers to share firsthand feedback on factors such as ease of setup, how well they work in day-to-day life (including low light settings), battery life and more.

What to look for when shopping for an outdoor security camera

✔️ Power source: Battery-powered outdoor cameras are preferred by our experts since they don't require any cables or outlets, but you can certainly opt for one that is wired and needs to be plugged in. If you do choose a wired outdoor security camera, make sure to purchase a power adapter that is weather-resistant. Our pros also suggest considering a solar-powered camera, which doesn't require as much charging since it sources power directly from the sun.

✔️ Durability: Because you'll be leaving your security camera outdoors throughout the year, you should look for one that's durable. Check for any weather resistance claims and look for IP (ingress protection) ratings, which indicate to what degree the device can handle water exposure or submersion in addition to contact with other elements like dirt, sand, etc. The first number refers to solids while the second number refers to liquids; as a rule of thumb, the higher the number, the more protection you can expect. While you don't need a waterproof outdoor security camera, our pros do advise one that can handle a bit of rain or snow — ideally IP54 or higher.

✔️ Resolution: Having crisp, clear resolution is especially important in an outdoor security camera since there are so many lighting conditions at play and objects at a distance. The higher the resolution, the better you'll be able to see your surroundings and potentially identify who is approaching your home. Our pros suggest finding a camera with at least 1080p resolution, but for the best of the best consider 2K.

✔️ Night vision: Most security cameras today feature night vision, which means that they'll be able to capture footage when there's little to no light outdoors. For the best performance, consider a camera with color night vision.

✔️ Storage: Keep in mind that most security cameras require a subscription plan for access to video storage that's saved in a cloud, though you'll typically be able to view live video feeds for free. Make sure to consider the extra cost of a subscription before making a purchase, or consider a camera that offers free local storage onto the device via a microSD card.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

The Good Housekeeping Home Improvement Lab provides expert reviews and advice on all things home-related, from setting up home security systems to installing smart plugs .

GH Institute writer and product analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from consumer electronics to home, fitness, travel and more and frequently collaborates with the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab. She's tested several types of security cameras since joining GH in 2021.

To write this review, she worked with the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab, Dan DiClerico , who brings more than 20 years of experience to the GH Institute, having reviewed thousands of products for Good Housekeeping, as well as brands like This Old House and Consumer Reports. During his time at the Institute, he has evaluated all types of security cameras and home security systems.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute . A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.

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Melbourne installing new street security cameras as local businesses shut down: 'Never seen it this bad'

MELBOURNE, Fla. - Small businesses are abandoning downtown Melbourne as the city installs new security cameras to try and make the area safer. 

There’s been a mass exodus of merchants in the past few weeks because of homelessness and crime concerns in the area, according to some business owners. 

The newest business closing its doors is the East Coast Winery. The owner was tearing down and clearing out on Monday when FOX 35 visited downtown Melbourne. 

Bare walls and bottles of wine are all that's left at the local wine shop. The owner made the tough call to close after a 20-year run.

"The downtown’s been going downhill quite a bit," said Brenda Bussiere, who owns the winery. 

She says people loitering near her business, cars street racing and having to clean up human waste forced her to a breaking point. 

"There’s just a lot of issues that make me feel like I’m not comfortable downtown anymore," Bussiere said. 

She’s not the only one closing her doors.

A clothing boutique on New Haven Avenue is also selling everything, and just down the street "For Rent" signs are sticking out on several windows of former restaurants. 

"It’s a shame," said Tom Grace, who was visiting from Altamonte Springs.

Shoppers are devastated, and the city thinks new security cameras will help.

At a recent city council meeting, the city of Melbourne moved forward with the installation of new CCTV security cameras recording 24/7 to "provide additional surveillance and oversight by Melbourne PD for the downtown area."

The cameras will be scattered along New Haven Avenue and will cost the city around $83,000.

"There’s way worse areas," said one downtown Melbourne employee who isn’t sure the new cameras will really help improve the area. 

Not everyone thinks downtown is dangerous or full of problems, but shoppers say something needs to be done if it’s affecting businesses. 

"They need to nip it in the bud instead of just letting it keep growing and growing and growing,"Grace said.

Merchants and visitors want to see businesses growing instead of shutting down.

"I’ve never seen it this bad," Bussiere said. 

Downtown visitors and small business owners say anything helps when it comes to public safety, but moving forward, some business owners say they’d like to see more meetings between local merchants and city leaders to talk about issues and address them before things get out of hand. 

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More than 3 million pass through US airport security in a day for the first time as travel surges

July Fourth Holiday Travel A traveler walks through the departure area as airline catering workers who are employed by Gate Gourmet picket with their supporters, calling for a new union contract with raises and affordable health insurance, Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at Miami International Airport in Miami. A long Fourth of July holiday weekend is expected to create new travel records. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky) (Lynne Sladky/AP)

More than 3 million people passed through U.S. airport security on Sunday, the first time that number of passengers have been screened in a single day as travel surges , according to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration.

The record, which was widely predicted to happen at some point over the July Four holiday weekend, topped the June 23 mark of more than 2.99 million screened passengers. Eight of the 10 busiest days in TSA's history have come this year as the number of travelers tops pre-pandemic levels.

TSA was created after the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and replaced a collection of private security companies that were hired by airlines. The agency operates under the Department of Homeland Security, which said that agents on Sunday checked 35 passengers every second.

While Americans continue to grapple with inflation, travel costs including airline tickets and hotel prices have eased significantly from a year ago. Hotel rooms were 1.2% cheaper in May compared with a year ago, according to recent government inflation data. Those costs have been trending lower since the beginning of the year.

While most U.S. airlines lost money in the first quarter — traditionally the weakest time of year for travel — they were all expecting a summer of full planes.

This spring, American and Southwest said they expected solid second quarter profits. They joined Delta Air Lines and United Airlines in giving an upbeat outlook for the April-through-June period, which includes the start of peak season for carriers.

Delta reports its second-quarter earnings on Thursday, with analysts predicting sales of $15.5 billion, nearly $1 billion more than the same period a year ago. Next week, United and American issue their quarterly results, with Wall Street forecasting higher revenue from a year ago for both carriers.

Increasingly full planes since the pandemic shut travel down four years ago has brought some downside for airlines: complaints .

The Transportation Department said last week that it received nearly 97,000 complaints in 2023, up from about 86,000 the year before. The department said there were so many complaints that it took until July to sort through the filings and compile the figures.

That's the highest number of complaints about airlines since 2020, when airlines were slow to give customers refunds after the coronavirus pandemic shut down air travel.

The Transportation Department said the increase in complaints was partly the result of more travelers knowing about their rights and the ability to file a complaint. Airlines receive many more complaints from travelers who don’t know how or don’t bother to complain to the government, but the carriers don’t release those numbers.

Associated Press Airlines Writer David Koenig contributed to this story.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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