Something interesting is happening in the world of travel photography right now. Young travelers are ditching their smartphone cameras for chunky, vintage-style gear that their parents might have used decades ago. From instant-print cameras to grainy digital compacts, Gen Z has fallen hard for retro cameras that create imperfect, authentic memories instead of polished Instagram perfection.
1. Fujifilm X100VI (and the still-hyped X100V)
Social media turned this camera into a legend. The X100 series blew up online thanks to its gorgeous film-like colors and compact body that looks straight out of the 1980s. People love it so much that stores sold out for months, and some folks paid extra just to get their hands on one.
The newest X100VI packs a powerful 40-megapixel sensor and built-in image stabilization, making it even better for travel. Fujifilm even raised prices because demand went through the roof. If you manage to snag one, you’ll understand why everyone’s obsessed—it creates stunning photos without needing a giant camera bag.
2. Ricoh GR IIIx / GR III
Forget bulky gear—this camera literally fits in your pocket. The Ricoh GR series earned serious street photography respect thanks to its big APS-C sensor crammed into a tiny body. The IIIx version has a 40mm lens while the III rocks a wider 28mm, both delivering super sharp images.
Many young photographers grab this when they can’t find an X100V. It’s practical, light, and slips into any bag without hassle. Just remember it has no viewfinder and isn’t weather-sealed, so pack a spare battery and maybe keep it away from rainstorms during your adventures.
3. Nikon Z fc
Nikon basically wrapped modern technology in a classic FM film camera body, and Gen Z absolutely ate it up. Those satisfying tactile dials and vintage styling make you feel like a photographer from another era, except you get all the benefits of today’s mirrorless tech. Plus, you can swap lenses depending on where your trip takes you.
This camera shines when you want versatility without sacrificing those retro vibes. Pair it with Nikon’s tiny 28mm f/2.8 lens for city exploring, and you’ve got a lightweight setup that turns heads everywhere you go.
4. Canon PowerShot Elph 360 HS “A” (2025 reissue)
Canon literally brought a 2016 camera back from the dead, and TikTok went wild. Celebrities started posting photos with that grainy, flash-heavy compact look, and suddenly everyone wanted one. The 2025 reissue keeps that authentic Y2K vibe but comes with a higher price tag than the original.
This point-and-shoot nails the party aesthetic—think harsh flash, slightly blurry backgrounds, and that nostalgic digital camera feel. Don’t expect fancy 4K video or professional features, though. It’s all about capturing raw, unfiltered moments that feel refreshingly real in a world of overprocessed smartphone pics.
5. Old Digicams (Sony Cyber-shot, Nikon Coolpix, Canon Ixus/PowerShot)
Thrift stores and online marketplaces became treasure hunts for these early 2000s relics. Young travelers adore that authentic grainy look, harsh flash, and imperfect image quality that screams vintage without the hassle of developing film. They’re relatively affordable (for now) and create that disposable-camera aesthetic everyone craves.
These cameras shine at night and give your travel photos a carefree, nostalgic feel. Before buying used, though, check that you can actually find batteries and chargers—some models use obscure parts. Also verify SD card compatibility, because older cameras can be picky about modern memory cards.
6. Fujifilm Instax Mini 12
Nothing beats peeling off a fresh instant print and sticking it in your travel journal while the moment’s still fresh. The Instax Mini 12 keeps things beautifully simple—point, shoot, and watch your memory develop in minutes. You can hand prints to new friends you meet at hostels or create an instant scrapbook.
Fujifilm’s Instax line has been crushing sales records because it hits that sweet spot between analog charm and modern convenience. Just know that film costs add up fast, so stock up on extra Mini packs before your trip to avoid scrambling at tourist shops.
7. Polaroid Now+ Gen 2
Square Polaroid prints carry a magic that rectangular photos just can’t match. The Now+ Gen 2 keeps that iconic Polaroid look but adds app-controlled tricks like aperture priority, light painting, and double exposures. Gen 2 upgraded to USB-C charging, making it more travel-friendly for modern gadget carriers.
This camera balances analog nostalgia with smart features that let you experiment creatively. Remember that Polaroid film comes in larger, pricier packs than Instax, so factor that into your luggage weight and budget. But those distinctive square prints? Totally worth the extra planning and expense.
8. Kodak Ektar H35 (Half-Frame 35mm)
Here’s a clever trick: this camera shoots two images per standard film frame, doubling your shots from 36 to 72 on a single roll. That half-frame format creates a fun scrapbook vibe where paired moments tell a bigger story. The H35 is wonderfully tiny and perfect for slipping into any travel bag.
Bright outdoor conditions bring out its best work—think sunny streets and beach days. Indoor or low-light situations can get tricky, so brace yourself against something stable or pop the flash. Reviews praise the fun factor while noting you’ll need steady hands for sharp results.
9. Paper Shoot Camera
Imagine a digital camera so simple it feels like a toy, yet produces those dreamy film-ish tones everyone loves. Paper Shoot stripped away screens and complicated menus, leaving just a point-and-shoot experience wrapped in swappable retro cases. It’s trendy, ultra-portable, and refreshingly straightforward.
Critics point out that image quality and shooting speed won’t blow your mind—and they’re right. But that’s kind of the point. Treat this as a vibe camera for capturing travel moods rather than technical perfection. It’s about embracing simplicity and getting images that feel effortlessly cool without overthinking every shot.
10. Camp Snap (Digital “disposable”)
This screen-free wonder went viral for good reason—it captures the carefree spirit of disposable cameras without wasting film. Camp Snap’s rugged, toy-like body feels nostalgic while delivering digital convenience. Market data shows these digital disposables are flying off shelves, especially among younger buyers craving unplugged experiences.
It’s absolutely perfect for group trips and wild nights out where you want candid shots without constantly checking a screen. Just don’t expect smartphone-quality video or advanced features. Camp Snap embraces the imperfect, spontaneous aesthetic that makes travel memories feel authentic and unfiltered. Sometimes less really is more.
11. The Macro Trend: Film & point-and-shoot revival
Step back and look at the bigger picture: film and compact cameras are staging a massive comeback among young travelers. Celebrities flaunting old digicams, the gritty indie sleaze aesthetic, and genuine pushback against perfect smartphone photos all fueled this movement. It’s cultural, not just about gear.
Young people are choosing cameras that create imperfect, authentic images over algorithmically enhanced smartphone shots. This trend reflects a deeper desire for real experiences and tangible memories in an increasingly digital world. Whether you grab a specific model or just embrace the spirit, this retro revival shows no signs of slowing down.
