Whether it’s for business or pleasure, if travel is on your agenda then you may be thinking of taking in some of the local sights, while you tour. A great set of travel binoculars will come in handy for catching those rare glimpses of wildlife, or a beautiful mountain range. Here, we’ve done the fact-checking for you, and we’ve put together our top-rated picks for the best travel binoculars on the market!
What are the Best Travel Binoculars?
We could say that we traveled the world to find for you the Best Travel Binoculars and it’s partially true – we’ve been on the road since 2011 after all.
More importantly, we have done a very thorough research online and have gone through most of the available binoculars for travelling that you can buy today. We read the comments left by people who bought and used these best travel binoculars.
We also wrote a brief best travel binoculars Buying Guide and FAQ sections to address most questions you may have.
Without further ado, here’s the list of top 9 binoculars for travelling based on their pricing, specs and ratings by real users.
1. Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.7 Pounds (0.3 kg) Size: 4.3 x 3.9 x 1 Inches (10.9 x 10 x 2.5 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 12x Eye Relief: 20mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision are great for seeing far distances while still promising clarity. What we like about the binocular is how it is lightweight and portable, making it good for travel use. The binocular also does not fog up easily, so you do not have to clean the lenses that often. We also appreciate the good customer service they provide. If you are using the binocular for extended periods, take note that there may be a slight plastic odor. You also need to be careful to not hit against the focus knob accidentally to avoid changing the focus.
Pros
- Customer service is good for customers’ queries,
- Binocular is lightweight,
- Binocular does not fog up easily,
- Binocular is great for looking at far distance
Cons
- There is a slight plastic odor from the binocular,
- Focus knob can be tighter
2. VANGUARD Endeavor ED 8×42 Binocular
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.6 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 6 x 5.1 x 2 Inches (15.2 x 13 x 5.1 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm Magnification: 8x Eye Relief: 19 m Waterproof: Yes Video: Yes |
The VANGUARD Endeavor ED 8×42 Binocular features a 42 mm objective lens diameter and an 8 x magnification ability. The lenses are made with an extra low dispersion glass with advanced multiguard coatings to provide crisp and clear images, even in low light settings. They have phase coated BAK4 prisms to help provide edge to edge clarity. The optics are nitrogen purged and sealed to make them waterproof and fogproof so they can be used in a variety of climates outdoors. The long eye relief makes them good to use with eyeglasses also. The lifetime Vanguard warranty protects them from any possible defects or issues. These can feel a bit heavy, but they do come with a neck strap.
Pros
- Lifetime Vanguard warranty,
- Excellent optics,
- Good for use with eyeglasses,
- Padded neck strap included
Cons
- Heavy,
- Possible quality control issues
3. SkyGenius 10×25 Compact Binoculars
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.5 Pounds (0.2 kg) Size: 4.2 x 4 x 1.9 Inches (10.7 x 10.2 x 4.8 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 10X Waterproof: Yes |
The compact SkyGenius 10X25 binoculars offer clear, bright, and sharp images – even in low light. These pocket-sized binoculars might appeal to those packing light, such as hikers.
While they are small, they offer a relatively wide field of view and stable magnification. It also comes with adjustable features for better focus. Glasses-wearing users will find that they can pull down the adjustable eyecups for better relief.
Additionally, the textured outer rubber body is durable for outdoor use and provides a comfortable grip.
These compact binoculars work well for everyday use when on a budget.
Pros
- It has clear and bright optics,
- It has a space-friendly design,
- These have a solid construction,
- It features easy-to-adjust focus options
Cons
- The gears make a sound when moved,
- There is no locking mechanism for the individual dials
4. Go-Focus Compact Binoculars
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.5 Pounds (0.2 kg) Size: 3.9 x 4.5 x 1.8 Inches (10 x 11.5 x 4.5 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25 mm Magnification: 10x Waterproof: Yes Video: Yes |
The Go-Focus Compact Binoculars feature a 25 mm objective lens diameter and a 10x magnification ability. These are a lightweight and compact design that is best for viewing at certain distances. They are waterproof so they are good to use in a variety of climates outdoors. The BAK4 prisms provide crisp and clear images. They have an autofocus which makes focusing good for specific distances, but these are not best for viewing at distances less than about 20 yards. They are made with an ergonomic rubber cover that helps make them durable and easy to handle. They also come with an adjustable neck strap and a protective carrying case.
Pros
- Auto focusing,
- Lightweight,
- Waterproof,
- Crisp and clear viewing
Cons
- Not great for viewing at less then 20 yards,
- Not adjustable for wider faces
5. Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Outdoor and Birding Binocular
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Size: 5.3 x 4.9 x 2 Inches (13.5 x 12.4 x 5.1 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 8x Eye Relief: 18mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Binocular can be used for a variety of activities like birding and hunting. The wide field of view can help you catch the rapid movements of the birds or animals in the wild. Since the binocular is waterproof and fog proof, you can rest assured that it will be well-protected from the elements of the weather. This is also partly due to the robust exterior of the binocular. Those wearing glasses may be glad to know that there is long eye relief on this pair of binoculars. A downside of this product is that the eyepieces may fall off if you are careless. Also, the binocular is slightly heavy.
Pros
- Waterproof and fog proof,
- Easily adjustable eye cups,
- Robust, well-built binocular,
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Eyepieces are not tightly secured,
- Binocular is slightly heavy
6. Aurosports 10×25 Folding Compact Binocular with Weak Light Night Vision
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.6 Pounds (0.2 kg) Size: 3.7 x 3.6 x 2.1 Inches (9.4 x 9.1 x 5.3 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 10x Waterproof: Waterproof |
The Aurosports 10×25 Folding Compact Binocular with Weak Light Night Vision is a good option for activities like sporting events and concerts. The binocular is light and easy to carry around, whilst also having a robust exterior. It is also relatively easy to adjust the focusing setting on this binocular. This binocular is also waterproof to some water splashes, so you don’t have to worry about slight rain damaging it. A perk of this binocular is the slight night vision capability it provides so you can see clearer images at night. One thing to take note of is that the binocular is not fog proof, so you may need to wipe it every now and then.
Pros
- Item is light and compact,
- Binocular is easy to focus,
- Binocular has slight night vision capability,
- Binocular has solid exterior
Cons
- Binocular strap is not easy to adjust,
- Binocular is not fog proof
7. Skygenius 8×21 Compact Binoculars for Hiking
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.3 Pounds (0.1 kg) Size: 4.1 x 3.6 x 1.1 Inches (10.3 x 9.1 x 2.9 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 21mm Magnification: 8X Eye Relief: 16mm Waterproof: No |
The pocket-size Skygenius binoculars are an affordable choice for both indoor and outdoor activities. The compact and foldable design helps save storage space, and the lightweight makes it easy to carry around. But their small size does not dim their power. With 8x magnification power, you can clearly observe the theatre or birds.
The binoculars also offer a wide viewing field to observe the full scene. Additionally, the multi-coated green lens provides a sharp and bright image. You can easily adjust the binoculars to focus without causing yourself eyestrain. The knobs can be a little testy, but the overall product is reliable and convenient.
Pros
- It is compact and foldable to save space,
- It is lightweight to carry with ease,
- It comes with a carry case and belt loop,
- It has an easy-to-adjust focus
Cons
- The adjustment pieces are a bit stiff,
- The strap might break
8. TecTecTec BPRO Wild Camo 10×42 Hunting Binoculars
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.6 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 6.3 x 2.7 x 7.1 Inches (16 x 6.9 x 18 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm Magnification: 10X Waterproof: Yes |
The TecTecTec BPRO 10X42 Camo binoculars are a solid medium-range pair for hunting and sightseeing. The build of the binoculars is durable and comfortable to hold. The binoculars come with a complete accessory kit for your viewing needs. Additionally, if you don’t have matching vision, you can adjust a collet present on the right eye-piece to find the perfect focus for both your eyes. Those with wide-set eyes might find that the binoculars don’t offer an adjustment for the interpupillary distance that suits them. All in all, the product includes a variety of features at a reasonable price.
Pros
- These are not only waterproof but also fogproof,
- You can align it with your smartphone camera to take photos,
- Smooth and easy adjustment,
- Realistic camouflage for stealth hunters
Cons
- Not for people with wide set eyes,
- Adjusting a phone to take a picture can be difficult
9. Gosky EagleView 10×42 ED Binoculars with Smartphone Mount
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.5 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 5.8 x 5 x 2.1 Inches (14.6 x 12.6 x 5.3 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 10x Waterproof: Waterproof |
You can use the Gosky EagleView 10×42 for many activities like sporting events, birding, and more. This is because the lenses have a wide field of view. You do not need to be afraid of the harsh elements in different environments because the lens is fog proof and waterproof. Thus, your binocular will also suit many other outdoor activities. Also, if you like to take pictures, you’ll be glad to know that they provide a complimentary phone adapter! One thing to note is that the binocular is on the heavier side when compared to others with the same magnification. Also, you may find slight chromatic aberration when using this binocular.
Pros
- Waterproof and fog proof,
- Wide field of view,
- Fully multi-coated lenses,
- Phone adapter is provided
Cons
- Slightly heavy,
- Some chromatic aberration can be observed
Verdict
TLDR: Quick summary of our findings as to what can be considered the best travel binoculars is below:
Overall best best travel binoculars out there: Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision
Premium Pick if money is not much of an issue: VANGUARD Endeavor ED 8×42 Binocular
Budget Choice – there’s no shame in spending prudently: SkyGenius 10×25 Compact Binoculars
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying Best Travel Binoculars
Portability
Its important that you get a portable pair of binoculars, especially when bird spotting and hunting. You do not want bulky binoculars as they’ll be harder to carry around and will tire you eventually with the weight. Portablity may sometimes also mean having a neck strap so you can wear it around your neck and leave it to hang when you are walking. There are also mini binoculars and foldable ones that can fit into the pocket and easen your load. Choose one that is easy for you to carry around and still meets your hunting or spotting needs.
Magnification
Binoculars with a high magnification may sometimes not be beneficial. For instance when hunting/fishing, you do not want a binoculars with magnification that is too high because it reduces the quality of the images. The best magnification is between 7X and 8X. High magnification narrows the field of view, but if your aim is to zoom in on far away items, then higher magnification is your best bet.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens’ size determines the amount of light entering the binoculars. Therefore, the larger it is, the better the image in terms of quality, especially in dark places. When buying a pair of binoculars, check for the lens size, which is the numeric figure right after the X on its description. A ratio of 5 to magnification is best, so in a case where you have an 8 X 25 versus a 8 X 40, the 8 X 40 has better images because generally the lens diameter is wider.
Weather Proofing
Modern binoculars are made weatherproof by coating the housing unit in silicone. Pairs for hunting are also made from reinforced leather painted in camouflage. The lenses and eyepiece glass is coated with water, dust, and scratch-proof film. These features invariably drive the price of a pair of binoculars up, with multi-coated pairs being the priciest.
Accessories
Depending on the design of your binoculars, it may come with some additional accessories such as neck straps, caps, rain guards, harness, a bag and tripod adapters. Some of these accessories should help to protect your binoculars against damage. For instance, the rain guards are extremely useful in tropical climate where there’s rainfall, that way, the droplets won’t get in your way or damage your binoculars. The neck straps or lanyards make it easier to carry the binoculars around hands free. Lastly, the lens covers help protect the lenses from damage by dust, debris or even water droplets.
Eye Relief
The distance from your eye to the eyepiece’s glass is what is referred to as eye relief. Getting a binoculars with adjustable eye cups are good to provide extended eye relief. If you wear glasses, you will need binoculars with a long eye relief so that your eyes are not too far from it, and in the process are unable to see the full image. If you do not wear glasses, binoculars with long or short eye relief will work just fine as you can adjust the eye cups to your liking.
Questions and Answers About Best Travel Binoculars
What is the best magnification for compact binoculars?
Compact binoculars with a magnification of 8X to 10X are the best. Because compact binoculars are small and light, they are simpler to hold steady and for longer periods. It means that a high magnification will not necessarily reduce your images’ quality because the lightweight binocular makes it simple to keep them steady and avoid jittery shots. On the other hand, lower-power binoculars will produce a brighter image, allowing faint things to be seen.
How do you carry binoculars while hiking?
The best way to carry your binoculars while hiking is wearing them around your neck or your chest. Most binoculars come with neck straps to hang around your neck as you walk around. You can also attach them to a special binocular harness so they hang on your chest freely yet securely. You can also put them on your hiking backpack, even though they may not be as easily accessible.
Which is better 8×42 or 10×42 binoculars?
It really depends on what you are trying to view. If you are trying to view a bird within a mid-range distance, a 8×42 would be better because it provides a wider view. This can really help you follow the bird closely. In contrast, a 10×42 can be used more appropriately for viewing objects from mid-range to long-range distances.
Do all binoculars have diopter adjustment?
A good pair of binoculars will have a diopter adjustment ring to help you focus a single barrel. However, a cheaper pair of binoculars may only have one focus adjustment to adjust both barrels at once. The purpose of having a diopter adjustment is to account for the difference in visual acuity in the left and right eyes to provide crisp images.