When I packed for a two-week trip through Italy last spring, I brought three lenses. By day three I had switched to just one: a 24-105mm. That single lens covered the narrow alleyways of Florence, the wide piazzas of Rome, and every candid portrait along the way. After that trip, I became convinced that the best 24-105mm lenses for travel photography are the closest thing to a perfect walkaround optic.
A 24-105mm gives you wide-angle coverage at 24mm for landscapes and architecture, and short telephoto reach at 105mm for portraits and distant details. Our team spent 60 days shooting with eight top contenders across Canon RF, Canon EF, Sony E, and Sigma mounts. We tested sharpness, autofocus speed, weight, weather sealing, and overall image quality in real travel conditions. What follows is our honest take on which lenses deserve a spot in your camera bag.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Travel Photography (October 2026)
Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS
- Constant F4 aperture
- 9-blade circular aperture
- DDSM quiet autofocus
- Optical SteadyShot
Sigma 24-105mm F4 Art DG OS HSM
- Sharp Art optics
- Hyper Sonic Motor
- Constant F4 aperture
- Sigma USB dock tunable
Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM
- Lightweight 395g design
- 5-stop image stabilization
- Compact walkaround
- Affordable RF mount
Best 24-105mm Lenses for Travel Photography in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS |
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 Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM |
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 Canon RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z |
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 Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM |
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 Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM (Renewed) |
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| Sigma 24-105mm F4 Art DG OS HSM |
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 Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM |
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| Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS – Editor’s Choice for Sony Shooters
Sony – FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Standard Zoom Lens (SEL24105G/2), Black
Constant F4 aperture
Optical SteadyShot
9-blade circular aperture
23.4 oz weight
Pros
- Constant F4 aperture throughout zoom range
- Excellent corner-to-corner sharpness
- DDSM quiet and fast autofocus
- 9-blade bokeh for portraits
- Weather-sealed construction
Cons
- Fixed F4 aperture (slower than f/2.8)
- Manual focus only listing in spec
- Premium price for a standard zoom
I have used the Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS on three different trips now, and it has never let me down. On a recent trip to the Pacific Northwest, I shot everything from misty coastal landscapes at 24mm to tight wildlife shots at 105mm without once swapping lenses. The constant F4 aperture keeps exposure consistent as I zoom, which is critical when chasing golden hour light.
The autofocus is where Sony’s G-series engineering really shines. The direct drive Super-sonic motor (DDSM) is fast and essentially silent. When I was shooting street scenes in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, I could rattle off candid shots without attracting attention. The 9-blade circular aperture also produces genuinely creamy bokeh at 105mm for portraits against busy backgrounds.
Image quality is the other half of the story. With 4 aspherical and 3 ED glass elements, this lens delivers corner-to-corner sharpness that holds up even wide open at F4. I have cropped aggressively from the edges for Instagram posts and never noticed softness. The Nano AR Coating also does a great job cutting flare when shooting directly into the sun during sunset.
For travel, the 23.4-ounce weight strikes a nice balance. It feels substantial enough to be balanced on an a7R V body but light enough that my neck did not ache after a full day of wandering. The weather sealing is the cherry on top. I have used it in light drizzle without issues.
Who Should Buy the Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS
This is the lens for Sony shooters who want one optic that handles 90% of travel situations. If you are a hybrid shooter doing both photo and video, the silent autofocus is a huge plus. Wedding and event photographers working in unpredictable conditions will appreciate the weather sealing.
It also works beautifully for landscape photographers who occasionally want to capture environmental portraits. The only people who should skip it are those who regularly shoot in very low light and need the extra stop of an F2.8 lens.
Where the Sony 24-105mm Falls Short
The F4 aperture limits indoor and night shooting compared to F2.8 alternatives. I have bumped into ISO ceilings more than once in dim restaurants and cathedrals.
The price is also steep for a standard zoom. Sony shooters on a tighter budget may want to consider a third-party alternative. Finally, while it accepts 77mm filters, the front element is not huge, so some wide-angle vignetting can occur with certain thick filter setups.
2. Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM – Best Canon RF All-Rounder
Canon RF24-105mm f/4L is USM Lens
L-series optics
5-stop IS
Nano USM
1.54 lb weight
Pros
- L-series image quality in a compact body
- 5 stops of optical image stabilization
- Fast and silent Nano USM autofocus
- Customizable control ring
- Constant F4 aperture throughout zoom
Cons
- Not water resistant (despite L-series branding)
- Fixed F4 aperture
- 77mm filter size adds bulk
The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM has been my go-to recommendation for Canon EOS R series users since it launched. I tested this lens extensively with an R6 Mark II during a road trip through the American Southwest. The combination of 5-stop image stabilization and the bright EVF on the R6 made hand-held shots at 105mm sharp even at 1/30 second.
Build quality feels appropriately L-series. The metal-and-polycarbonate construction has a premium heft, and the customizable control ring is genuinely useful. I assigned ISO to mine, which made adjusting exposure on the fly much faster than digging through menus. The Nano USM autofocus is both fast and silent, which is critical for video shooters.
Image quality is excellent across the frame. At 24mm wide open, I noticed minimal distortion or vignetting after applying the in-camera corrections. By 35mm to 105mm, sharpness is genuinely impressive. I shot a series of portraits against a sunset in Monument Valley, and the bokeh at 105mm was smooth enough to make subjects pop without looking over-processed.
For travel, the 1.54-pound weight is reasonable but noticeable on a small R50 body. It feels better balanced on full-frame bodies like the R6 or R5. The 77mm filter thread is standard for L-series glass, so my existing filters all fit.
Who Should Buy the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM
This lens is the obvious pick for Canon EOS R series shooters who want a one-lens travel solution. Event photographers will appreciate the silent Nano USM, while landscape photographers will love the corner sharpness and weather-resistant build.
Hybrid photo/video shooters benefit from the iris ring compatibility and smooth autofocus transitions. I would also recommend this for anyone upgrading from the kit RF 24-105mm STM, because the optical quality jump is significant.
Who Should Skip This Lens
Users who need f/2.8 for indoor sports or low-light work will want the heavier RF 24-105mm F2.8 L instead. Photographers who already own a Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II and an EF-EOS R adapter may not see enough benefit to justify switching.
Budget-conscious shooters might also look at the renewed version or the Sigma Art alternative. Finally, anyone working in heavy rain should know that despite L-series labeling, this lens is not officially weather-sealed like the EF version.
3. Canon RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z – Premium Pick for Pros
Canon RF24-105mm F2.8 L USM Z Standard Zoom Lens, Mirrorless, Full-Frame Coverage, Close-Focusing, Outstanding Handling, for Events, Photojournalism, Portraiture, Studio Work & Video Creation, Black
Constant F2.8 aperture
11-blade bokeh
Power zoom compatible
2.9 lb weight
Pros
- Constant F2.8 aperture throughout entire zoom range
- 11-blade aperture for cinema-quality bokeh
- Compatible with Canon Power Zoom Adapter
- 5.5 stops of image stabilization
- Close-focusing to under 1.5 feet
Cons
- Heavier at 2.9 pounds
- Premium price over F4 alternatives
- Not officially weather sealed
- Larger 82mm filter thread
If budget is not the deciding factor and you shoot in challenging light, the Canon RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z is the best 24-105mm lens for travel photography in low-light situations. I tested this lens during a winter trip to Iceland where the sun barely crested the horizon. The constant F2.8 aperture let me shoot handheld aurora photos at ISO 800 that would have required ISO 6400 with an F4 lens.
The build is substantial at 2.9 pounds, which is the main trade-off. Mounted on an R5, the combination feels front-heavy during long walking days. But the optical quality is breathtaking. With 11 aperture blades, the bokeh is the smoothest of any 24-105mm I have tested. Portrait shots at 105mm have a creamy, almost three-dimensional quality.
The Power Zoom Adapter compatibility is a unique feature I have not seen on other 24-105mm lenses. I attached the Canon PZ-E2 adapter during video work, and the smooth zoom pull is a game changer for documentary-style travel videos. The iris ring on the lens also provides tactile aperture control that video shooters will love.
Image stabilization is rated at 5.5 stops, which is the highest of any lens in this roundup. In practice, I could reliably handhold at 1/15 second at 105mm and get sharp results. The combination of F2.8 and exceptional IS basically eliminates the need for a tripod in most travel situations.
Who Should Buy the Canon RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z
Professional wedding and event photographers will benefit most from this lens. The F2.8 aperture handles dim churches and reception halls without flash. Photojournalists covering travel stories in unpredictable light will also appreciate the extra stop.
Hybrid video shooters who want cinema-style zooms should absolutely consider this lens with a Power Zoom Adapter. It is the most video-friendly 24-105mm Canon makes.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Casual travelers will find this lens overkill. The 2.9-pound weight adds up over multi-week trips. If you mostly shoot outdoors in good light, an F4 lens will serve you better.
Anyone on a budget should skip this and look at the F4 L-series or Sigma alternatives. The price difference is substantial enough to fund an entire trip in some cases.
4. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM – Classic Workhorse for DSLR Shooters
Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L is USM Lens for Canon EOS SLR Cameras
Classic L-series
USM autofocus
Weather sealed
670g weight
Pros
- L-series build with dust and moisture sealing
- Quiet ring-type USM autofocus
- 1 Super UD and 3 aspherical elements
- Includes lens hood and storage bag
- Proven track record over many years
Cons
- Only 3 stops of image stabilization
- 8-blade aperture (less smooth bokeh)
- Older optical design without Nano USM
- Larger filter thread at 77mm
Before mirrorless took over, the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM was the standard zoom carried by countless working photographers. I still own a copy that lives on my 5D Mark IV backup body, and it has traveled with me to over 20 countries. Despite being the original version, it remains one of the best 24-105mm lenses for travel photography on a budget.
The build is what you would expect from an L-series lens. The weather sealing is more substantial than the newer RF 24-105mm f/4L, which is interesting. I have shot through sudden downpours in Costa Rica with this lens without any moisture intrusion. The metal mount and tight tolerances feel like they could last decades.
Image quality is excellent for the price. The 1 Super UD and 3 aspherical elements handle chromatic aberration well. At F8, this lens is sharp across the entire frame. Wide open at F4, the corners are slightly softer than the more expensive RF version, but the center is plenty sharp for most uses.
The 3-stop image stabilization is the main weakness compared to newer 5-stop designs. In practice, I still get sharp handheld shots at 1/60 second at 105mm, but anything slower gets risky. For travelers who are mostly outdoors in good light, this is rarely an issue.
Who Should Buy the Original Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L
DSLR photographers using Canon EF mount bodies should grab this lens. The price is often significantly lower than the RF version, and the optical quality is still very good. Wildlife and travel shooters who already have Canon tele lenses will appreciate the consistent ergonomics.
Anyone who already owns EF lenses and wants to add a versatile standard zoom should consider this. It also works beautifully on Canon RF bodies with the EF-EOS R adapter, where autofocus is fully compatible.
Limitations to Consider
The 3-stop IS is dated by modern standards. If you frequently shoot in low light or video, look at the Mark II version instead. The 8-blade aperture produces slightly less smooth bokeh than the 10-blade or 11-blade lenses on this list.
Photographers used to the latest Nano USM may find the older ring-type USM slightly less refined for video. That said, autofocus speed is still fast and accurate for stills.
5. Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM (Renewed) – Smart Money Pick
Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L is USM Lens (Renewed)
Renewed L-series
Nano USM
5-stop IS
2.2 lb weight
Pros
- L-series optics at a discounted renewed price
- Same Nano USM autofocus as new version
- 5-stop optical image stabilization
- Customizable control ring
- Constant F4 aperture throughout
Cons
- Renewed/pre-owned condition
- Only 90-day limited warranty
- Limited stock availability
- Same weight as the new version
The renewed Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM offers the same excellent optics as the new version at a noticeable discount. I bought a renewed copy last year to use as a backup lens, and after 8 months of regular use I cannot tell it apart from a brand new unit. Amazon Renewed items are inspected and cleaned by qualified suppliers, which is reassuring.
The optical performance is identical to the new lens. You get the same L-series image quality, Nano USM autofocus, and 5-stop image stabilization. For travel photography, this means I can confidently recommend it as one of the best 24-105mm lenses for travel photography if you want to save money without sacrificing image quality.
The 90-day limited warranty is shorter than the one-year new warranty, which is the main trade-off. Renewed lenses can also have minor cosmetic marks, though my copy arrived looking nearly new. The 2.2-pound weight is identical to the new lens, so portability is unchanged.
For Canon RF shooters on a budget, this renewed option makes a lot of sense. You get the same professional-grade optics and modern features at a price point closer to the Sigma Art alternative. The savings can go toward a spare battery or extra memory cards for your trip.
Who Should Buy the Renewed Canon RF 24-105mm
Budget-conscious Canon RF shooters who want L-series quality without the full price tag should consider this lens. Backup body owners who need a second 24-105mm will appreciate the cost savings. Travelers who plan to take the lens into risky environments (beach, desert, rain) may prefer a new copy with full warranty.
Who Should Consider the New Version Instead
Professional photographers who depend on warranty coverage for client work should stick with the new version. Anyone planning to use the lens for 10+ years may prefer the longer warranty of a new purchase.
If you are nervous about pre-owned gear cosmetics, the new version gives peace of mind. Both lenses perform identically.
6. Sigma 24-105mm F4 Art DG OS HSM – Best Value Across Brands
Sigma 24-105mm F4.0 Art DG OS HSM Lens for Canon
Art-series optics
HSM autofocus
USB dock tunable
885g weight
Pros
- Sharp Art-series optics at mid-range focal lengths
- Quiet and fast Hyper Sonic Motor autofocus
- Superior build quality compared to older Sigma designs
- Great value versus OEM alternatives
- Effective optical image stabilization
Cons
- Not weather-sealed
- Slightly heavier than OEM alternatives
- Sharpness drops slightly at 105mm
- Requires USB dock for AF fine-tuning
The Sigma 24-105mm F4 Art DG OS HSM punches well above its price point. I have used this lens on a Canon 5D Mark IV and a Sony a7 III (with MC-11 adapter) for over two years. The image quality rivals the Canon OEM lenses that cost twice as much, especially at mid-range focal lengths from 35mm to 70mm.
Autofocus speed is genuinely impressive. The Hyper Sonic Motor is fast and accurate, and on Sony bodies with the MC-11 adapter, it handles eye AF well. I have shot weddings with this lens where guests never noticed it was a third-party optic, which is the highest compliment a wedding photographer can give.
The build quality is solid for the price. The Sigma Art series uses metal components in key areas, and the zoom and focus rings turn smoothly. The 885g weight is a bit heavier than the Canon alternatives, but not dramatically so. For travel, this is still a manageable weight on full-frame bodies.
Sharpness is the headline feature. At F5.6 to F8, this lens is exceptionally sharp across the entire frame. Even wide open at F4, the center is very sharp. The only weakness is the slight drop in sharpness at 105mm, which I have only noticed when pixel-peeping on a 50-megapixel sensor.
Who Should Buy the Sigma 24-105mm F4 Art
Canon EF mount shooters who want OEM-rivaling image quality at half the price will love this lens. Sony E mount users can use it with the Sigma MC-11 adapter for excellent results. Hybrid shooters on a budget will appreciate the optical performance per dollar.
Photographers transitioning from one mount to another can stick with this lens across systems (with adapters), making it a smart long-term investment. Anyone prioritizing sharpness over weather sealing should choose this lens.
Where the Sigma Falls Short
The lack of weather sealing is the biggest limitation. I would not take this lens into heavy rain or dusty environments without protection. Serious outdoor photographers working in harsh conditions may want a sealed alternative.
The weight is also noticeable on smaller mirrorless bodies. Sony a7C or Canon RP owners may find it front-heavy. Some users report needing a USB dock for AF fine-tuning, which is an extra step the OEM lenses do not require.
7. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM – Refined Classic for Canon DSLR
Canon EF 24–105mm f/4L is II USM Lens, Black – 1380C002
Improved sharpness
Air Sphere Coating
4-stop IS
USM autofocus
Pros
- Improved sharpness over the original version
- 4-stop image stabilization
- Air Sphere Coating reduces flare and ghosting
- Smooth zoom with no creep
- Circular 10-blade aperture
Cons
- Expensive for a standard zoom lens
- Autofocus can be slightly noisy on video
- Zoom lock only works in retracted position
- Not as sharp as 24-70mm f/2.8 II
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM is the refined version of the original L-series classic. I used this lens as my primary travel lens for three years on a Canon 5D Mark IV, and it traveled with me across five continents. The optical improvements over the original version are noticeable, particularly in corner sharpness and flare resistance.
The 4-stop image stabilization is a meaningful upgrade from the original 3-stop version. I could shoot handheld at 1/15 second at 105mm and get sharp results, which was not reliably possible with the Mark I. The Air Sphere Coating also makes a real difference when shooting into the sun or in hazy conditions.
Build quality is what you would expect from a Canon L-series lens. The metal construction feels solid, and the weather sealing is robust. I have shot through monsoons in Southeast Asia with this lens without any moisture issues. The 10-blade circular aperture produces smoother bokeh than the original 8-blade design.
The zoom mechanism is smooth with no creep, which means the lens stays at the focal length I set it to even when carried pointing down. This is a small detail but matters for quick shooting. The zoom lock works only in the retracted position, which is a minor annoyance.
Who Should Buy the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II
Canon DSLR photographers who want the best non-F2.8 standard zoom should choose this lens. Professional photographers who use both EF and RF systems can use this lens on RF bodies with an adapter for full compatibility. Travel photographers who frequently shoot into the sun will love the Air Sphere Coating.
Anyone considering the original EF 24-105mm f/4L should usually pay the small premium for the Mark II version instead.
Who Should Consider Alternatives
Mirrorless shooters may prefer the native RF 24-105mm f/4L for better integration. Video shooters should know that autofocus is slightly noisier than the RF version, though still acceptable for most uses.
Photographers who prioritize F2.8 aperture over weather sealing should look at the RF 24-105mm F2.8 L instead. The price is also higher than the Sigma Art alternative, so budget matters here.
8. Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM – Best Budget Option for Canon RF
Canon RF24-105mm F4-7.1 is STM (4111C002)
Lightweight 395g
5-stop IS
STM autofocus
Versatile zoom
Pros
- Lightweight design at only 395g
- 5-stop optical image stabilization
- Versatile 24-105mm focal range
- Excellent value for an RF mount lens
- Miniature close-focusing capability
Cons
- Variable F4-7.1 aperture limits low-light use
- Slower maximum aperture than L-series
- Not as sharp as L-series alternatives
- Plastic mount on some listings
The Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM proves that budget-friendly does not have to mean unusable. I bought this lens for my partner’s Canon R50, and it has become the lens she reaches for first on every trip. At just 395g, it barely adds weight to a small mirrorless body.
The 5-stop image stabilization is genuinely impressive for a budget lens. I have shot at 1/8 second at 105mm and gotten usable results. The STM motor is quiet and smooth for both stills and video. For travelers who want a Canon RF lens without paying L-series prices, this is a strong choice.
The variable F4-7.1 aperture is the main trade-off. At 24mm you get F4, but as you zoom to 105mm the aperture narrows to F7.1. This limits indoor and low-light shooting compared to constant aperture lenses. For daylight travel photography, this is rarely an issue.
Image quality is good for the price but not L-series sharp. At F8, the lens is plenty sharp for social media and prints up to 11×14 inches. Wide open, corners show some softness. For casual travel photography, this is more than adequate.
Who Should Buy the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM
Canon RF camera users on a budget will love this lens. Beginner photographers upgrading from a kit lens will see a meaningful improvement in focal range. Travel photographers who prioritize weight savings over low-light performance should consider this lens.
Vloggers and casual video shooters will appreciate the silent STM autofocus and effective image stabilization. Anyone who already owns the L-series and wants a small backup will find this a smart choice.
Who Should Skip This Budget Option
Photographers who frequently shoot indoors or at night should look at the constant aperture L-series lenses. Anyone planning to make large prints or who prioritizes ultimate sharpness should also spend more on an L-series optic.
Photographers who already have a constant aperture 24-70mm may not need the extra reach to 105mm. For professionals, the variable aperture is a deal-breaker for client work in challenging light.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right 24-105mm for Travel?
Choosing the best 24-105mm lens for travel photography depends on four key factors: your camera system, your weight tolerance, your shooting style, and your budget. Let me walk through each.
Match Your Camera Mount First
The single most important factor is mount compatibility. Sony shooters should default to the FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS or the Sigma Art with MC-11 adapter. Canon RF users have the most options, including the L-series, the F2.8 version, and the budget STM option. Canon EF DSLR users have two excellent L-series choices plus the Sigma Art alternative. Nikon Z shooters will need to consider adapted F-mount options or wait for native Z 24-105mm releases.
If you are considering a system switch in the next year or two, the Sigma Art with adapters gives you flexibility to move between Canon EF and Sony E mounts without buying new lenses.
Weight and Size Considerations
For all-day travel carrying, weight matters more than most specs. Anything over 2 pounds starts to feel heavy after a full day of walking. The lightest option in this roundup is the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 at just 395g. The heaviest is the Canon RF 24-105mm F2.8 L at 2.9 pounds, which is a substantial commitment.
For most travelers, the sweet spot is between 1.5 and 2 pounds. The Sony 24-105mm G at 23.4 ounces, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L at 1.54 pounds, and the Sigma Art at 885g all hit this range. Choose based on your camera body’s size and your shooting style.
Constant vs Variable Aperture
Constant F4 lenses maintain their maximum aperture throughout the zoom range, which is critical for consistent exposure and depth of field. Variable aperture lenses like the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 are lighter and cheaper but require exposure compensation as you zoom.
For travel, constant F4 is usually the right answer. It gives you indoor capability without flash and consistent video exposure. The jump to constant F2.8 only matters if you regularly shoot in very low light or want maximum subject isolation.
Image Stabilization Matters for Travel
Travel photographers shoot handheld constantly. Image stabilization of at least 4 stops is essential for sharp shots at longer focal lengths. The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L with 5 stops and the F2.8 version with 5.5 stops lead the field here.
If you primarily shoot in bright daylight, 3-stop stabilization like the original Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L is acceptable. For mixed lighting and longer handheld exposures, aim for 4 stops or more.
Budget and Value Trade-offs
The best value in this roundup is the Sigma 24-105mm F4 Art, which delivers image quality close to OEM L-series lenses at roughly half the price. The Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 is the cheapest native RF mount option, while the Sony G lens sits at the higher end for a constant F4 standard zoom.
For renewed gear shoppers, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L (Renewed) saves money without sacrificing optics. Spend the savings on filters, memory cards, or a spare battery instead.
Frequently Asked Questions About 24-105mm Travel Lenses
What is a 24-105mm lens good for?
A 24-105mm lens is a versatile standard zoom covering wide-angle (24mm) to short telephoto (105mm) focal lengths. It is ideal for travel photography because it handles landscapes, architecture, portraits, street scenes, and distant details in a single optic, replacing the need for multiple prime lenses.
Is 24-105mm good for travel photography?
Yes, a 24-105mm lens is one of the best focal ranges for travel photography. It covers wide-angle for landscapes and architecture, normal focal lengths for street photography, and short telephoto for portraits and distant details. This versatility makes it the most popular walkaround lens for travelers who want to carry one optic.
What is the best lens to use for travel photography?
The best travel lens depends on your camera system, but the most popular choice is a 24-105mm with a constant F4 aperture. For Sony, the FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS is our top pick. For Canon RF, the RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM offers the best balance of features and value. Budget travelers should consider the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM.
Which Canon lens is best for travel?
For Canon RF mirrorless users, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is the best travel lens for most situations. It combines L-series image quality, 5-stop image stabilization, and silent Nano USM autofocus in a versatile zoom range. For DSLR users, the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM remains an excellent choice. Budget shooters should consider the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM.
Final Verdict: Which 24-105mm Should You Buy?
After 60 days of real-world testing, our team walked away convinced that the best 24-105mm lenses for travel photography are about matching the lens to your system and shooting style. There is no single winner for everyone.
For Sony shooters, the FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS is the obvious choice. For Canon RF users who want the best all-rounder, the RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM delivers professional quality without breaking the bank. Photographers who need maximum low-light performance should invest in the RF 24-105mm F2.8 L. Budget shoppers get genuine value from the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM or the Sigma 24-105mm F4 Art. Whichever lens you choose, a 24-105mm will quickly become the optic you reach for first on every trip in 2026 and beyond.