Travel Gear Essentials for Beginner Creators (with Prices and Budget-Friendly Options)

Starting as a travel creator doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Here’s a list of beginner-friendly travel gear, complete with prices and some budget alternatives where possible.

1. Smartphone

Your smartphone is your most versatile tool. Modern phones come with top-notch cameras that can handle photography and videography.

• iPhone 14: $799

• Google Pixel 7: $599

• Budget Option: Samsung Galaxy A54 ($449) – Still a great camera for creators without the flagship price tag.

2. Portable Tripod

A tripod is essential for steady shots and time-lapses.

• UBeesize Portable Tripod: $19.99

• Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod: $24.99

• Budget Option: AmazonBasics Lightweight Tripod ($16.99) – Affordable and easy to carry, though less durable.

3. Clip-On Lenses

Enhance your smartphone’s camera with clip-on lenses for versatile photography.

• Xenvo Pro Lens Kit: $44.99

• Budget Option: Apexel 4 in 1 Phone Camera Lens Kit ($25.99) – Includes wide-angle, macro, and more.

4. Portable LED Light

Good lighting is key to great content, and portable LED lights can help in dim settings.

• Lume Cube Mobile Creator Kit: $69.99

• Budget Option: Neewer LED Light for Smartphone ($22.99) – Compact and affordable with decent brightness.

5. Gimbal for Smartphones

A gimbal stabilizes your footage, making your videos look smooth and professional.

• DJI Osmo Mobile SE: $109

• Budget Option: Hohem iSteady X ($79.99) – An affordable alternative with great stabilization features.

6. Power Bank

Keep your devices charged with a portable power bank.

• Anker PowerCore 10000: $24.99

• Budget Option: Miady 2-Pack Portable Charger ($21.99) – Two for the price of one, and still reliable.

7. Portable Storage

Back up your content on the go with portable storage.

• SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive USB-C: $17.99 (64GB)

• Budget Option: PNY Elite-X Fit USB 3.1 ($9.99) – Compact and affordable, though with less storage capacity.

8. Selfie Stick

Capture wide-angle shots of yourself and your surroundings with a selfie stick.

• Atumtek Selfie Stick Tripod: $29.99

• Budget Option: Fugetek FT-568 Selfie Stick ($22.99) – Includes a Bluetooth remote and tripod features.

9. Editing Apps

Editing on the go is essential for quick turnaround times.

• Adobe Lightroom Mobile: Free (with in-app purchases)

• InShot: Free (with in-app purchases)

• VN Video Editor: Free – A great alternative for those who want free, powerful editing software.

10. Protective Phone Case

Keep your phone safe while traveling with a sturdy case.

• OtterBox Symmetry Series: $49.95

• Budget Option: Spigen Tough Armor ($16.99) – Reliable protection without the premium price tag.

11. Backpack with Tech Compartments

A good backpack will help you carry your gear and keep it organized.

• Matein Travel Laptop Backpack: $31.99

• Budget Option: Himawari Travel Backpack ($28.99) – Stylish and functional, with compartments for your tech gear.

Final Thoughts

Starting your journey as a travel creator doesn’t require expensive gear. With the right beginner-friendly tools, you can produce high-quality content that stands out. Whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or a basic tripod, creativity and resourcefulness go a long way.

Happy travels, and enjoy creating!