Buying advice

The travel lens: one lens to do it all

On the road, weight and versatility matter most. Why one good prime is worth considering – and when a zoom makes more sense.

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When you travel, weight and versatility are what count. If you don't want to carry three lenses, one good prime around 35 mm is the way to go – it handles landscapes, street and portraits.

Why a prime

It's lighter, faster and sharper than most travel zooms. A 35 mm focal length feels the most natural – “what you see is what you get.” For most situations, 35 mm or 50 mm is enough.

When a zoom makes sense

If you want one lens to cover more, reach for a zoom. The Sony FE 24–70 mm f/2.8 GM is the most versatile choice – it covers both landscapes and portraits. For a lighter kit, the Sony FE 24–50 mm f/2.8 G is an alternative.

Always check compatibility with your body – whether it's full frame or APS-C – to avoid disappointment.

What to watch for with a used lens

When buying second-hand, a thorough inspection is key:

Glass: look at the front element and the inner elements. A bit of dust is fine; scratches or fungus are a deal-breaker.
Autofocus and stabilization: make sure the lens focuses properly across the whole range and isn't noisy or jerky.
Mount: check that there's no play, because it can affect sharpness.

If you're buying a body too, check the shutter count and sensor condition. My stock includes the Sony A7 IV and Canon EOS R6, among others, often in flawless condition – both make a great base for travel.

The ideal combination won't always be in stock. In that case, focus on the condition and history of the specific copy: a less-than-perfect lens in hand beats no lens at all.

Tell me where you travel and how light you want to pack – I'll recommend a specific combination.