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Best compact Binoculars (Travel or Safari) 2023 – Powerful + Lightweight

Last updated on December 17, 2022 by Claire / this article contains affiliate links (Info)

Below is my practical guide to finding the best compact binoculars for travel or for safari.  I never travel without them, but they can get heavy and bulky.
So I have done a complete analysis of the different options for Travel Binoculars to select the most powerful and lightweight.
I hope this will help you save time in your search! I've organized them into 3 categories:

  • the versatile lightweight binoculars,
  • the best compact pocket binoculars for hiking
  • and sightseeing in general and the best safari binoculars (full-size).
Best small binoculars - best binoculars for the money

Table of Contents
Best Travel Binoculars - Overview
Criteria to choose quality binoculars for sightseeing
Criteria to choose the best compact binoculars for Travel conditions
Reviews - Best lightweight Binoculars - Compromise weight / performance
Reviews - Best compact and pocket binoculars for Hiking and Travel
Reviews - Best Powerful Safari Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Reviews - Best Kids Binoculars

This article contains affiliate links (Disclosure page). If you purchase using my link, I get a commission at no extra cost to you.


Best Travel Binoculars - Overview

Binoculars are not only for Safaris

Best Travel Binoculars

Pleasure of Travel Binoculars

When you think binoculars, you often think wildlife: safaris, birds, whale watching... But they are worth having for every trip:

  • To admire the gargoyles at the top of the Paris Notre-Dame Cathedral,
  • To realise how far the Petra site extends (and even my guide was surprised),
  • To help your guide in Kyrgyzstan check on its cows in the mountains (he even offered to buy them from me in exchange of lots of honey),
  • To watch the icebergs detach from the glacier at Jokulsarlon in Iceland...

For me they are one of the must have travel accessories 🙂

About this Buying Guide

Best compact binoculars for travel comparison table

Comparaison of compact Binoculars

I am frustrated with my current binoculars which I bought 5 years ago at the airport at the last minute before my trip to Namibia. They were really great, but I am now annoyed by them because of their weight. They are quite heavy to travel with.
This is why I have decided to do a deep dive into understanding how binoculars are made and work. And I did a big comparison chart with all the elements to help me decide which one I could purchase next.
And rather than keep that all to myself, I have gathered all the info here for you.

My Best-Of - Travel Binoculars

So below are the summary table of my best-of for compact travel binoculars, mid-size versatile binoculars and full-size safari binoculars for those who don't want to read the whole article.
But for the others, after these summary tables, you can learn more about the criteria to choose the right binoculars for you and my detailed review analysis of the best options I have found.

Note : this article does not include binoculars for bird watching or stargazing as they are not compact at all.

Best versatile binoculars Mid-size - Overview Table

NAME

IMAGE

WEIGHT

MAGN.

COST

MY RATING

CELESTRON TRAILSEEKER 10x32

453g = 16oz = 1lbs

10

$$

CELESTRON GRANIT 9x33

570g = 20oz = 1.26 lbs

9

$$$

PENTAX AD 9x32

500g = 17.6oz = 1.1 lbs

9

$$$

Best compact binoculars for travel - Overview Table Compacts + Pocket

NAME

IMAGE

WEIGHT

MAGN.

COST

MY RATING

BUSHNELL LEGEND ULTRA HD 10x25

230g = 8.1oz = 0,5 lbs

10

$$

LEICA ULTRAVID BR 10x25

265g = 9.3oz = 0.58 lbs

10

$$$$

ZEISS Victory 10x25

290g = 10.2 oz = 0.64 lbs

10

$$$$

Best safari binoculars Full-size - Overview Table

NAME

IMAGE

WEIGHT

MAGN.

COST

MY RATING

VANGUARD SPIRIT XF 10x42

667g = 23.5oz = 1.47lbs

10

$$

NIKON MONARCH 8x42

590g = 20.8oz = 1.3 lbs

10

$$$

BUSHNELL LEGENd ULTRA HD 10x42

638g = 22.5oz = 1.4 lbs

10

$$$

ZEISS CONQUEST HD 10x42

750g = 26.5oz = 1.65 lbs

10

$$$$$


Criteria to choose quality binoculars for sightseeing

Let's start with an introduction of the different numbers and optics elements of binoculars. Nothing too technical but enough to help you understand the specification and make a decision based on your needs

MAGNIFICATION

Binoculars are identified by 2 numbers e.g. "10*42" or "7*35". The first number is the magnification power.

Generally speaking, a magnification power at 10 means that an object will appear 10 times closer than it would if you just look.
Another way to look at it, is that the object will appear 10 times bigger.
So if you see a leopard that is 500 meters away, in the binocular it will look like it is only 50 meters away (500/10). It sounds great now?

However It also means that it amplifies the movement of your hands by 10 times. This is why you use binoculars in a stationary position. And Binoculars with a magnification above 12 should not be handheld.

Magnification power binoculars - leopard

==> IDEAL - a Power of magnification at 8 or 10 are really ideal for all travel situations.

LENS DIAMETER

In the identification we saw above "10x42" or "7x35", the second number is the lens diameter. It is a value in millimetres.

This number determines how much light enters your binoculars. More light means brighter and crisper view, which is particularly good in low-light conditions (at dawn or dusk).

Even a 15mm difference can have a big impact. A 8×50 binocular has the ability to gather twice the light as a 8×35 binocular

==> IDEAL - the higher the number, the best view but for classic travel 35 or 42 are already great

Note that the quality of the glasses are also essential for brightness and crispiness. This is why the Zeiss and Leica are at a higher price point.

EYE RELIEF

The eye relief is a number in mm provided in the specification.

It is the distance from each eyepiece where you can see all in focus.

Most of the time you have eyecups on the eyepieces to place your eyes at the proper distance. If you wear glasses you should roll them.

==> IDEAL - if you wear glasses, like I do, you should make sure that the eye relief is at least 11mm - However the higher the eye relief, the lower the field of view in general.

best compact binoculars for travel

FIELD OF VIEW

The field of view is the actual distance across your viewing field (left to right), your scope of view.

It is expressed either in ft at 1000 yards or in an angle. You can convert from one to the other by dividing the feet by 52.5 to get the angle.


==> IDEAL - A typical field of view is 340ft at 1000 yards a.k.a. 6.5° - For fast moving wildlife, a higher field of view is better to keep aim on the subject. Above 390ft or 7,4° is considered wide field.

FOGPROOF

You know how annoying it is when your glasses somehow get covered in fog and you can't see anything anymore? 
Well, you can have the same problem with binoculars. But then it is way more difficult to remove it.
Some manufacturers have developed system to avoid the formation of fog. I won't go into the technical details.

==> IDEAL - If you have the budget, fogproof binoculars are a definitive advantage. 

LENS COATING

Lens coating is an good element to differentiate cheap binoculars from high quality ones.
Coating layers make them more durable, and they will produce higher quality images for a longer period of time.Plus coatings reduce reflection and ensure sharper images.
==> IDEAL - Fully multicoated lenses reduce most reflections and increase light.

OTHER

Other elements can be taken into account such as prisms (Porro vs Roof) and glass and other technical options, but because of our other criteria for travel they will be implied, so no need to get too technical.


Criteria to choose the best compact binoculars for Travel conditions

SIZE

Of course the main criteria for your travel is size. When you already have to fill in your backpack with your camera, your lenses, water, the suncream, a raincoat, a jumper, and many other items, adding binoculars can be a difficult decision.

So you have to choose the best size for your travel conditions and your expectations. 

Generally, binoculars are organized into 3 main sizes:

  • Compact Binoculars - those are light and small so they fit well in your backpack. They work well in many conditions but would be limited in terms of far away wildlife and low light conditions. Plus they are often less comfortable if used for extended periods.
    Typical specifications for those are 8x25 or 10x25
  • Mid-size - often considered the best all around. They are versatile. They will be a bit heavier in your backpack but work well in most conditions
    Typical specifications for those are 7x35 or 10x32
  • Full-size - this are for the serious binoculars user for wildlife watching during longer periods
    Typical specifications for those are 10x42 

==> IDEAL - It depends on your expectations
We always want the best of all worlds but you do have to make a choice between criteria.
But if you want compact and powerful, you will have to pay more for the technics. But there is a limit to their power anyway.
If you want to travel with powerful binoculars, you will have to accept to carry a bigger pair.

WATERPROOF & WEATHERPROOF

best safari binoculars for travel

binoculars for safari

Of course when traveling, you never know what conditions you will encounter. 

I strongly recommend to choose binoculars that are waterproof.

The standard is:

  • IPX0 - the equipment is not waterproof at all
  • IXP8 - the equipment can be submerge in up to 3ft of water (91cm)

==> IDEAL - IPX4 or above is good


WEIGHT

Weight is of course largely related to size.

The compact binoculars will be the lightest. Mid-size ones will be a bit more heavy.
But if every gram /ounce counts in your luggage, you can check the exact weight in the specifications and that can help you decide between 2 pairs


Next are the reviews for my choices of best Travel Binoculars. It is possible to write full pages with technical description of materials, technical approach and test under every situation. But considering we are mainly looking for binoculars that will be great in many different travel conditions, I have kept my reviews to the essentials elements to help you choose.


Reviews - Best lightweight Binoculars - Compromise weight / performance

Let's start with my selection of Mid-size binoculars.

When to choose a Mid-size?

  • When weight is important but not critical - Their weight is mid-range between the compact and the full size
  • When you want a bit more viewing comfort and versatility of fonction - they will allow you better viewing in lower light conditions compared to the compacts

The mid-size are the most versatile binoculars, allowing you to take them almost everywhere and enjoy your experience

Celestron Trailseeker 10x32 Review

Weight - 453g = 16 oz = 1lbs
Magnification - 10
Lens Diameter - 32mm

Eye Relief - 14,4mm
Field Angle - 6,2°
Coating - Multilayers

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - yes
Cost - $$

This is a great compromise of power and weight. They manage to built a pair at 10x32 under 500g at a reasonable price. A really great combination.

The Eye relief is sufficient for people wearing glasses with eyecups adaptable to your situation.

Strong quality product. The little brother of a pair than won a best binoculars for money award.

Get them on Amazon

Celestron Granit 9x33 Review

Weight - 570g = 20oz = 1.26 lbs
Magnification - 9
Lens Diameter - 33mm

Eye Relief - 14mm
Field Angle - 7,2°
Coating - Multilayers

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - yes
Cost - $$$

A bit less magnification but more light than the Trailseeker. So smaller but sharper images.
The Field angle is interesting offering a wider views. But they are a little big more heavy getting closer to the weight of the full-size binoculars.

Get them on Amazon

Pentax AD 9x32 Review

Weight - 500g = 17.6 oz = 1.1 lbs
Magnification - 9
Lens Diameter - 32mm

Eye Relief - 16mm
Field Angle - 6,7°
Coating - Multilayers

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - yes
Cost - $$$

Lightweight pair of binoculars with great eye relief and a tendency towards a compact design.
A well rounded pair of binoculars for traveling or hiking if you are ready for something but a bit heaver than the pocket one in order to have better performances.

Get them on Amazon

Reviews - Best compact and pocket binoculars for Hiking and Travel

For hiking and general travel, sometimes you need something very small and light that you can carry everywhere or keep around your neck as you are hiking.
Because even if a little less powerful, it is better to have a pair than to have none. And some are doing a really fantastic job.

So here is my selection of 3 minibinoculars, my choice for the best small binoculars. As you can see with 2 of those pairs, to achieve such a small size and great quality, you need quite the technics, so prices are steeper.

Pocket Binoculars - Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x25 Review

Weight - 230g = 8.1 oz = 0,5lbs
Magnification - 10
Lens Diameter - 25mm

Eye Relief - 15,5mm
Field Angle - 5,4°
Coating - Multilayers

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - Yes 
Cost - $$

High performing optics for only 230g and a reasonable price!!! 

A great option for those you want binoculars that fit in their pocket.
Not for birdwatching or animals going fast

Can feel too small for those with large hands. 

Get them on Amazon

Small binoculars - Leica Ultravid BR 10x25 Review

Weight - 265g = 9.3 oz = 0.58 lbs
Magnification - 10
Lens Diameter - 25mm

Eye Relief - 15,8mm
Field Angle - 5,1°
Coating - Multilayers

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - yes
Cost - $$$$

Very easy to manipulate, this is a very small pair with very high performances in terms of light and sharpness.

It is the German quality of a Leica. The sports car of Binoculars.

Can also feel too small for those with large hands. Not for birdwatching or animals going fast.

Get them on Amazon

Zeiss Victory Pocket 10x25 Review

Weight - 290g = 10.2 oz = 0.64 lbs
Magnification - 10
Lens Diameter - 25mm

Eye Relief - 16,5mm
Field Angle - 6°
Coating - Multilayers

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - yes
Cost - $$$$

Very ergonomic design for comfortable handling with high performance despite a small and light design.

Only for right-handed people (asymetric design with focus wheel on the right)

Can also feel too small for those with large hands. Not for birdwatching or animals going fast.

Get them on Amazon

Reviews - Best Powerful Safari Binoculars for wildlife viewing

If you are ready to carry binoculars that are a little bigger and heavier, then go for a full-size pair. They will offer the best images and conditions for many activities including birdwatching and wildlife moving fast.
And they normally are a bit more comfortable to use for extended period of time.

Vanguard Spirit XF 10x42 Review

Weight - 667g = 23.5oz = 1.47lbs
Magnification - 10
Lens Diameter - 42mm

Eye Relief - 16mm
Field Angle - 6.3° 
Coating - Multilayers 

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - yes
Cost - $$

Appreciated for the sharpness of the images, it is very versatile including wildlife and birdwatching.

Good value for money.

Get them on Amazon

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Review

Weight - 590g = 20.8 oz = 1.3 lbs
Magnification - 8
Lens Diameter - 42mm

Eye Relief - 19,5mm
Field Angle - 6,3°
Coating - Multilayers

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - yes
Cost - $$$

Good quality with great eye relief allowing for a more comfortable viewing.

Only a magnification at 8 but I know many people enjoy the Brand Nikon and feel more comfortable with a well-kown brand. In that's your case this is a good option.

Get them on Amazon

Bushnell Legend HD 10x42 Review

Weight - 638g = 22.5 oz = 1.4 lbs
Magnification - 10
Lens Diameter - 42mm

Eye Relief - 15,2mm
Field Angle - 6.4°
Coating - Multilayers

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - yes
Cost - $$$

A firm grip and design with good quality optics and a good field of view.

Nice pair all around.

Get them on Amazon

Zeiss Conquest HD 10x42 Review

Weight - 750g = 26.5 oz = 1.65 lbs
Magnification - 10
Lens Diameter - 42mm

Eye Relief - 17mm
Field Angle - 6,6°
Coating - Multilayers

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - yes
Cost - $$$$$

Razor sharp quality of images from the Zeiss binoculars and their quality coating.

A sharp price but you know the quality behind. Zeiss, like Leica are the high-end brands of binoculars.

They are a little heavier than the other safari binoculars in this category.

Get them on Amazon

Reviews - Best Kids Binoculars

Best Kids Binoculars

Don't forget the rest of the family on your travel. Kids Binoculars are fantastic tools that open them to new worlds of discoveries.
But children's binoculars have a few different requirements:

  • It is recommended not to take a magnification over 8 as their hand will shake more under the weight of the binoculars
  • you might want a lower price in case they get lost
  • you want them to be quite solid as you never know what they will do with them 🙂 so rubber coating and waterproof...
  • And you want their at a good size for their little hands and leightweight

So here is my selection of the best binoculars for Kids. Note that the very cheap version for kids might not last that long in the hands of some children... 

Kids Binoculars -  ExploreOne 6x21 Review

Weight - 177g = 6.24oz = 0.39 lbs
Magnification - 6
Lens Diameter - 21mm

Eye Relief - /
Field Angle - 2.3°
Coating - yes but not multi

Waterproof - No
Fogproof - No
Cost - $

Cheap option for younger quality with proper quality of images and magnification.
Quite light for all younger kids to play with them.

Not for hard core throwing on the ground though 🙂

Get them on Amazon

Wingspan Optics RuggedEagle 8x32 Review

Weight - 431 g = 15.2oz = 0.95 lbs
Magnification - 8
Lens Diameter - 32mm

Eye Relief - /
Field Angle - 6,9°
Coating - Multilayer

Waterproof - yes
Fogproof - no
Cost - $

Those are great for teenagers. They are a little bit heavier and provide good images at a reasonable price.

Get them on Amazon

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Comments

  1. Ann Scott says

    July 20, 2019 at 2:07 AM

    Why did you choose the Celestron 10 x 32 when Amazon has a Celestron 10 x 42? Which would be best? Would u advise us going to a store to check biinoculars out before purchasing? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Claire, the Travel Planning Geek says

      July 20, 2019 at 8:47 AM

      Dear Ann, I chose the 10×32 because it is much lighter than the 10×42.
      Going to a store is great to be able to choose what suits your sight best and check weight. However then, you should purchase there, with their price. It is not fair to take their time and advice, and not purchase from them 🙂
      I wish you wonderful travels!

      Reply
  2. Guru says

    May 2, 2020 at 7:35 AM

    Dear Claire,
    Thanks for in depth information about binoculars. Very useful for backpackers like me. Everything needed to know in one window. Excellent. Appreciate your knowledge and time.
    Thanks
    Guru.

    Reply
  3. Zvonimir says

    February 15, 2022 at 7:04 PM

    The binoculars that you have reviewed are generally 10 power. This is a very high magnification; it typically calls for a tripod.. What are the drawbacks of this? First, as you correctly note the user’s hands will have to be unusually steady for comfortable use. Secondly, and this you do not mention, the field of view for a 10 power glass is going to be considerably narrower than for a six or eight power. This means you could easily miss the moving leopard or the Chilean condor in flight. You would have better luck with the stationary gargoyles.

    I am delighted by the quality of my eight power Zeiss Victory, but its huge price rag means it stays at home if I am at risk of bad weather or of thieving humanity.

    Reply

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