The Best Drone for Travel (+ Features, Laws & Reviews!)

Top Picks

Buying Guide: Things to Consider When Choosing a Travel Drone

Features

• Weight – The weight of a drone has a direct impact on its flight capacity as well as portability. When looking specifically for a travel drone, you will want to consider looking for a lightweight drone, that is compact and especially portable. You do not want to be lugging around a drone that is heavy and bulky.
• Size/Shape – drones are available in many shapes and sizes. The most popular are quadcopters. These drones use 4 rotors, offering greater stability, especially for inexperienced pilots and windy conditions. Drones can also come in sizes from super tiny micro-drones to large super duty drones that can carry weight across long distances. Traveling drone pilots tend to go for the medium to smaller drones that can easily be transported with them when they move from place to place.
• Battery life – The majority of drones are battery powered. And just like anything that takes batteries, the charge life of the battery is going to be important. I wouldn’t want to have to change the battery every 5 minutes. Most travel drones average around 20 minutes of battery life. You can absolutely increase this by purchasing extra batteries. Some even come equipped with the ability to carry onboard battery backups!
• Video/Photo quality – Other than just being fun to use and fly, most travel drones are used to take amazing photos and videos from perspectives that we just can’t get to easily if at all. You are going to want to get the best possible camera quality to fit your budget. Some additional camera features to look for are gimbal, panoramic, and manual and automatic capture capabilities. I know I am not a professional photographer, so I mostly look for automatic or some easy manual settings that I understand, like exposure.

• Flight time & range – The amount of flight time is usually connected directly to battery life but can have an effect on the range that your drone can cover. The range can also be influenced by topography. Lesser equipped drones need a more direct line of sight than more advanced drones that use satellite communication and location.
• User interface – no matter what drone you want to buy, make sure that the operations are easy to understand. Whether your drone is designed to be connected to your smartphone or comes with a joystick remote control, every drone will have its own unique operation. Having an easy to understand operation will make your flight time a much more pleasurable experience.
• Smartphone compatibility – I would have a hard time believing that anyone that loves smart technology enough to travel with a drone uses anything other than a smartphone. So, look for a drone that is compatible with your smartphone. Another thing to keep in mind is firmware updates and future compatibility. It is possible that you will likely purchase a new model phone during the life of your drone. Double check for future compatibility as well.
• Some assembly required – Not all drones come ready to fly right of the package. Some can require complete or partial assembly. If you are not prepared to assemble a drone, make sure to find out what will be required.

Drone Laws for Destination

• Drone Pilots License – Most drones beyond smaller recreational and beginner drones may require that you acquire a drone pilots license. Many countries also require that visiting drone users have a license in order to operate a drone in their country. Take the time to consider the licensing requirements in your home location before purchasing your drone, as well as the licensing requirements for your likely travel destinations. It may be in your best interest to obtain a drone pilot license just in case you may be traveling to a location in the future that requires it.
• Drone Bans – Some countries have complete bans on drone usage, while others only ban drones in certain areas. For example, Japan requires drones to be registered with the government and are banned from being used in populated areas, so basically most of the popular travel hotspots in the country.

• Customs – Different destinations have regulations that require you to declare your drone in order for it to pass through customs upon arrival. The Bahamas is one of these destinations. Others have such strict requirements that you run the risk of your drone being confiscated. Check your destination declaration requirements regarding drones. Unfortunately, in some of the most beautiful places in the world, it may be safer just to leave the drone at home.
• Local Laws – In addition to country laws, many individual cities have laws pertaining to drones. Traveling with a drone requires researching the laws of each city before operating your drone. Failure to obey these laws can result in fines, jail time, and seizure of your drone, so it isn’t worth taking the risk. In fact, some cities have such strict regulations, that they do not allow drones at all, even when not being flown.
• When in Doubt, Find Out – Finally, do not assume that you can return to a destination with the same regulations. Laws and regulations surrounding drones are rapidly changing all over the world. Make sure to double check, even if you have traveled to the same destination previously.

Travel Drone Categories

• Beginner Drones are affordable, durable, and build to withstand crashes. Designed for first-time drone operators to learn how to manoeuvre a drone. Replacement parts are easy to find and are inexpensive.
• Hobby Drones are the next step up. Hobby drones are still affordable yet have some more advanced features. Hobby drones can have cameras and cover a wider range. These drones are designed for occasional recreational use, or those still learning but wanting more options to play with.
• Professional Drones are designed for professional photographers and videographers. They have advances cameras and usually incorporate a number of premium features, such as “follow me” or “return home” features. These features allow for more flexibility in the location as well as advanced shooting capabilities.
• Racing Drones are designed to push the limits of the technology with speed. Race drones typically feature first-person visual capabilities. Some racing drones have been known to reach speeds up to 100 miles per hour. Competitive racing with drones has started to take root in many locations.

In addition to these categories, some drones may be classified according to their focus feature.

Some of these categories include:

• Selfie drones offer users a chance to ditch the selfie stick and get candid selfie shots of you, your friend, or anyone nearby.
• Micro or mini refers to drones that weigh less than 250 grams.
• Follow me drones have a built-in feature that you can set to track you and keep you in the middle of the footage. Basically, an advanced selfie mode.

Travel Drone Accessories

There are many accessories available for drones, depending on the brand and type of drone you decide to go for.

Some of the most popular drone accessories are:

• Camera Filters – There are many types of filters that can be purchased to help you get the best pictures and videos with your drone. I love the polarizing filter for sunny, snow or over overwater shots because it cuts out the glare and reflections you otherwise get.
• Travel/Carrying Cases – Whether you want a backpack style case, or one specifically designed to carry batteries, there is an abundance of options for cases to transport your drone and its accessories.
• Additional Batteries – for most drones it is possible to purchase additional batteries. Check with airport guidelines for guidelines regarding traveling with batteries. It pays to let security staff at the airport know, that you are traveling with a drone and put batteries into a special fireproof travel case.
• Extra Propellers – One of the most fragile parts of a drone are the propellers, luckily, they are usually the most inexpensive parts as well. Pick up some extra propellers so your flights won’t be grounded for long in the event of a mishap. It will happen sooner or later, don’t despair!
• Portable/Car Charger – Whether you go for solar charging or a car charger, having the flexibility to charge on the go will allow for more flexibility while traveling with your drone.

• SD Card – you have to have a way to store and transport all of the amazing footage that you take while traveling. Snatch up some extra SD cards to ensure that you never run out of space.
• Drone Tool Kits – even if your drone comes fully assembled, chances are there will come a time that you need to work on it. Picking up a toolkit designed for working on drones and keeping it with you while traveling will make tune-ups and replacing propellers a lot easier.
• Remote Controller Hood – chances are you are going to be using your drone when the sun is shining. Unfortunately, this means that reading the display on your controller, or smartphone in some cases may be difficult. Pick up a hood to shade your control platform so you maintain control in the brightest situations.
• Landing Pad – A fun and not necessarily required accessory is a landing pad. It offers the added challenge of seeing how accurately you can land your drone. Don’t worry, landing pads fold up for easy portability.

The Top 10 Best Drones for Travel

DJI Mavic 2 Zoom

The Mavic 2 Zoom drone is the perfect combination for great photos and even better video thanks to its incredible zoom lens. I used this drone for all the shots in this article and it’s my go-to drone for travelling as it’s light and small which is essential for any trip.

It can be bought with the complete Fly More Combo for the ultimate drone capabilities. The combo already includes everything you need to get started, including replacement propellers, spare batteries and a battery charging hub and soft case shoulder bag.

With all of the additional accessories included in the kit, to me the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom is the best overall travel drone.

Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5

Pros:

• Best Drone for Travel
• 12MP camera
• Optical Zoom from 24-48mm
• The Fly More Kit comes with everything you will need to get started

DJI Spark

The DJI Spark is a lightweight drone, just over six and a half pounds. Making it perfect for travel. This drone takes decent pictures with the 1080p HD capture.

However, the DJI Spark is smaller and has fewer features than many of the other drones on this list, it is perfect for beginners and first-time drone users. DJI also offers a Fly More Combo with various accessories to get started.

Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5

Pros:

• Best Drone for Beginners
• Gimbal support
• 1080p HD camera

DJI Mavic 2 Pro

DJI Mavic 2 Pro is the same model drone as the Mavic 2 Zoom above, however this model comes with the internationally renowned ‘Hasselbad’ brand camera. This means it is the top drone for professionals who like to have the freedom to capture very high quality photos and not be restricted on the post editing.

The Mavic 2 Pro can also be bought with a Fly More Combo Kit that comes with a remote controller, an intelligent flight battery, charger, power cable, 3 sets of propellers, RC cables, gimbal protector, USB cable and adapter, and a spare pair of control sticks.

This medium-sized drone is great for the travelling professional photographer. I would highly recommend purchasing a case/travel bag to protect your investment.

Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5

Pros:

• Crash-resistant technology
• Hasselblad 20MP camera with 4K HDR video
• Foldable for easier transport
• Obstacle avoidance sensors

Hover Camera Passport Self-Flying Drone

The Hover Camera Passport is a uniquely designed drone that stands out. This self-flying drone is the first of its kind. Built with integrated face and body tracking that ensures you get great pics where you are always front and center of the action.

In addition to being one of the less expensive drones on our list, I think the portability and flexibility of this drone make it the best drone for holidays. Imagine being able to get an aerial shot of your bf or hubby!

Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5

Pros:

• Best Drone under $500
• Innovative design
• Foldable for excellent portability
• 13MP camera
• 4K video
• No FAA registration required

DJI Mavic Pro Platinum

The DJI Mavic Pro has been around for a bit now, but still deserves a place in the top travel drones thanks to it extremely portable, foldable design. This drone is so compact, it can even be carried in a large pocket or a purse. Opt for the Fly More Combo bundle and get some great accessories, including travel bag, spare batteries and spare props.

With many features like bigger drones, such as a 12MP compact camera as well as 4K video capture capabilities. Its super compact size also included low noise propellers for increased stealth, making this our pick for the best drone for backpacking or hiking.

Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5

Pros:

• Compact and Foldable
• 12MP camera
• 4K video
• Noise reduction propellers

DJI Mavic Air

DJI Mavic Air is the best adventure drone with its amazing 32 MP sphere panoramic technology, and the ability to capture slow motion video.

Additionally, the Mavic Air also has SmartCapture technology, which allows for hand gesture controlling. At less than one pound this drone is super lightweight and portable. Comes in black, white and red colour as well as the possibility to purchase a Fly More Bundle.

Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5

Pros:

• Best drone for video bloggers (vloggers)
• 32MP camera
• 4K video
• Automatic shooting

Tello Quadcopter Drone with HD Camera and VR

Tello Quadcopter is the easiest drone to operate on this list. Not only is it super lightweight but it is specifically designed for both kids and adults. This drone is powered by DJI technology and is a great way to introduce yourself or someone you love to the joys of drone piloting without complicated controllers and maneuvers for just about $100!

The Tello Quadcopter can entertain by doing 8D flips and aerial tricks with ease right from your smartphone. Check out the Iron Man Edition sold on Amazon through the link below.

Editor’s Rating: 3.9/5

Pros:

• Best affordable travel drone
• VR headset compatible
• Smartphone connectable
• Throw and Go

Yuneec Q500 4K Typhoon RTF Quadcopter Drone

The Yuneec Q500 4K Typhoon features a precision gimbal for ultimate control. The camera captures lifelike videos and 1080p/120 fbs slow motion video with lots of manual camera settings to unleash your creativity. Out of the box ready, this drone comes fully assembled and ready to go.

Additionally, the Q500 comes with an additional battery. Integrated, preprogrammed flight modes make for easier operation, including a return home function, so you will not lose your drone.

Editor’s Rating: 3.9/5

Pros:

• Mid-level drone
• Noise reduction technology
• Return to Home Mode
• 12MP camera
• 4K video

Parrot Bebop 2

The Parrot Bebop 2 was the first in its weight class to beat 20 minutes of autonomous flight time.

Equipped with 3-axis digital stabilization off you end up with a stable view regardless of turbulence or maneuvers. The camera includes live streaming capabilities, wide angle lens and built-in image stabilization for great pictures and video capabilities.

Editor’s Rating: 3.8/5

Pros:

• Electronic image stabilisation
• Super compact and powerful
• 14MP camera
• HD videos

Parrot Anafi Drone

The Anafi is a go-to drone when what you are looking for is great quality photos in a lightweight and compact drone.

With the 8x zoom lens capability and 3-axis stabilization, you will never miss the perfect shot, especially with the built-in presets and effects. Equipped with both return to home and find my drone features, you never have to worry about losing your Parrot drone.

Editor’s Rating: 3.7/5

Pros:

• Compact and portable for travelling
• Charge with USB Type-C on the go with a power bank
• Handy find my drone mode
• 21MP camera
• 4K video

Final Thoughts

There you have it, the top ten drones that are great for travel, or wherever you like to fly in your backyard or on a weekend adventure. With this guide, we have attempted to provide you with some important tips for traveling with a drone.

Hopefully, you have decided on the perfect drone to take with you on your next adventure. Don’t forget to share those amazing photos and videos you take along the way! For more inspo, check out my Instagram.