Traveling is a definite part of a photographer’s life. Perhaps you are going out to a client’s location, or maybe you have decided to go on an adventure to find new scenery to capture.
Regardless of the reason behind your travels, there is a need for compact lenses when you are carrying all of your photography equipment with you. With this in mind, we decided to take a look at the best Nikon travel lenses.
There are a lot of different options available when buying a lens for a Nikon camera. The problem, however, is that not all of these lenses are travel-friendly.
You want a compact lens that will not only be portable enough to carry around with you, but the lens should also be able to serve its particular purpose. Continue reading to discover the nine top options when looking for a suitable Nikon travel lens.
1. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED
Our top selection in the list is the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED. This is one of the more expensive options that you are going to find, but it gives you the quality you need for better outdoor photography. The lens features a focal length range that can be adjusted between 24mm and 70mm, along with a minimum focus distance of 1.2 feet.
The NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED provides improved performance in low-light conditions, making this a great option for night-time photography. The lens construction uses three ED glass elements, along with three aspherical lenses. There is a nanocrystal coating as well, offering better quality photos.
For more info, specs, and just general use details, read the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED review.
2. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR
The Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR is a more budget-friendly option that still delivers the quality you expect from this brand. This is an ultra-wide-angle lens, which can provide enhanced performance over the standard kit lenses.
The Nikon 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR offers a minimum focus distance of 0.8 feet, which is superior to a large number of competitor models.
The product utilizes the latest lens technology to deliver better Optics. The autofocus motor does not only work effectively but also features a silent system that makes the lens an ideal option for scenarios where you want to record video content.
3. Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G
Next on our list of Nikon travel lenses is the Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G. The lens is not only ideal for travel purposes due to its compact size, but the fact that the product can provide excellent quality close-up shots further extends on its travel-friendliness.
The lens features nine different elements in its construction, divided into seven groups. Autofocus technology makes it easier to capture crystal clear images, while the Infinity technology allows for life-size photography. The NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G features a Silent Wave Motor, as well as a Close-Range Correction System.
4. Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM
Sigma is a trusted brand among photographers, and this particular lens is certainly no exception. The Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM might not be the most expensive option on our list, but it surely provides the quality you need for professional shots. The product is compatible with a large selection of Nikon DSLR cameras, making this a truly versatile lens.
The Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 features a construction that utilizes 17 elements in total, with 13 groups. The lens takes advantage of FLD glass to provide better performance. The maximum magnification level is 1:5, with a minimum focusing distance of 11 inches.
Get even more insight into this lens in our Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM review.
5. Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC
The Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC is another excellent option from a third-party vendor. The lens is an affordable price and still provides the performance that you need on your travels – even if you are a professional photographer.
The lens comes with a 75mm diameter and is compatible with all Nikon APS-C DSLR cameras. There is a six-year warranty that accompanies the purchase of the lens. You also gain access to Vibration Compensation technology. The autofocus feature uses a silent motor to reduce noise during recordings.
Dig deeper into this lens in our Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC review.
6. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR
The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR features excellent compatibility with all FX-format Nikon cameras. The lens features compatibility with both DX and FX-format, which can be customized directly on the product.
The minimum viewing angle of the Nikon 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR is 18 degrees in DX-format and 28 degrees in FX-format. The maximum viewing angle in DX-format is 61 degrees, with an FX maximum of 84 degrees. The lens features a minimum focus distance of 125 feet.
Read more about this lens and how it performs in our Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR review.
7. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G
The next option on our list of Nikon travel cameras is the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G. This lens is compatible with the majority of Nikon DSLR cameras that are currently on the market – with a focus on those that feature an F-mount.
The Nikon 35mm f/1.8G features a Silent Wave Motor AF system, reducing the noise that comes with the autofocus feature. The product’s compatibility can be switched between FX and DX formats. Aperture can be adjusted between 1.8 and 2.2.
To really understand how this lens works, check out the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G review.
8. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G
The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G is a balanced lens from the official Nikon brand. The lens gives you great quality without a high price tag, like some of the alternatives you can choose from. This is also a rather compact lens that will provide a perfect fit for your camera accessory travel bag.
The lens can be purchased with an additional polarizer or UV filter, which can be useful in specific situations. The product comes with autofocus technology. The minimum focus distance is 1.48 feet, and the lens has a focal length of 50mm.
Our Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G review will tell you everything you need to know about this lens to see if it’s for you.
9. Altura Photo 8mm f/3 Fisheye (Budget Winner)
If you are on a low budget and you do not mind buying a lens from a third-party vendor, then consider the Altura Photo 8mm f/3 Fisheye. The utilization of ultra-wide-angle technology, along with the fact that this is a fisheye lens, makes it an ideal option for outdoor photography. The lens also has a relatively compact design that will easily fit into your camera travel bag.
The Altura 8mm f/3 Fisheye is compatible with a large range of Nikon cameras. In fact, all Nikon APS-C cameras can fit this particular lens. Certain Nikon full-frame cameras can also be equipped with the lens. The lens features a manual focus system, as well as a 180-degree viewing angle.
Read the complete review of the Altura Photo 8mm f/3 to get all the details and see if this is the right lens for you.
Purchasing Nikon Travel lenses
With such a significant variety of options, choosing the best Nikon travel lenses can be a complicated task. You have to find a lens that is small enough to keep in your camera bag, while also delivering excellent quality in terms of zooming and enhancing the angle of your shots.
We shared the best Nikon travel lenses that you should take into consideration if you are looking for a lens that you can take with you when going out on a photoshoot.
