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Our favorite picks for safaris, bird-watching, and more.

A person looking through binoculars with mountains in the background

Credit:Travel + Leisure

We tested 18 pairs of binoculars on travels around the world to find the best options for your adventures.

I took these binoculars on a Kenyan safari and was impressed with their quality from the first use.

There is also an extra strap system included that can turn the case into a chest pack.

Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars

Credit: Amazon

The lenses are also fog-proof, and the entire gadget is waterproof and shockproof.

They are not fog-proof and they dont work as well at night.

At less than five inches long, these binoculars from Occer are perfect for anyone with limited space.

A person looking at a rhino with the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars

Credit: Travel + Leisure

The neck strap isnt thick or cushioned, but the binoculars are light enough that this isnt an issue.

Although these are lightweight, they dont feel flimsy at all.

They also come with protective covers for the lenses and a carrying case to store between uses.

A person wearing the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars

Binoculars can be a bit of an investment, so its nice to know youre getting your moneys worth.

The images we saw were sharp, clear, and colorful without any distortion.

These felt sturdy and well-made, showing no signs of wear and tear after several uses.

A bird through the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars

They come with a carrying case and covers for both the eyecups and lenses.

While durable, they never felt too heavy or bulky to carry around for bird-watching outings.

Compared to other binoculars, these felt extremely comfortable to use and the improvement in quality was significant.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars pouch on a wooden surface

These are also completely waterproof and nitrogen purged for fog-proof lenses.

The neck strap is a little confusing to attach to the binoculars and it could be more comfortable.

Need something that can stand up to rugged adventures?

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars on top of a wooden surface

Meet the Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars.

The outer coating is also textured to improve grip to minimize the chance of drops.

These are also tripod-compatible, so you might keep both hands free if you gotta.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars in a pouch

The neck strap is pretty thin and not very well-padded.

The binoculars arent the lightest we tested, but did not feel cumbersome to hold steady.

To adjust to objects and animals at varying distances, just spin the focus ring.

A hand holding the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars

The focus wheel is a bit sharp.

They have a wide field of view and 8x magnification that is suitable for many types of safaris.

Even when the full magnification range is used, images are crystal clear.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars on a bag

They also work exceptionally well in low light conditions and can be used for evening safaris and stargazing alike.

They also come with anunconditional lifetime warrantyto put you at ease.

We took these on several adventures throughout the U.S. and appreciated how lightweight they were when every ounce mattered.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars packed in a pouch in a suitcase

Otherwise, we will continue to bring these on hiking andcamping tripsfor years to come.

They are one of the heavier and more expensive options we tested.

These binoculars have stood up remarkably well to several trips and many drops.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars on a person’s knee

Other than that, they havent been scratched, dented, or otherwise damaged in any way.

They arent the lightest binoculars we tested, but they never felt cumbersome to carrywhile backpackingor hiking.

The included case is quite thin.

A person looking at a rhino with the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars

Lightweight binoculars might give the impression of poor quality, but thats not the case with these Canon Binoculars.

That being said, they may work for some travelers.

We then took the binoculars into the real world and tested them in various configs from Antarctica to Kenya.

A person wearing the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars

Compact models are also easier to handle in fast-paced situations, like spotting wildlife or watching sporting events.

Practice adjusting the focus, zooming in and out, and using other features like the diopter.

It might be helpful to take them on a local walk or hike to practice viewing objects further away.

A bird through the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars

Understanding the specs will help you find the best pair for your upcoming adventure or general lifestyle.

This includes magnification, lens diameter, field of view, and eye relief.

Waterproof binoculars are ideal for activities like hiking, bird-watching, and boating.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars pouch on a wooden surface

Yes,TSA allows binocularsto be carried on domestic and international flights.

Always pack your binoculars in a padded case.

Many binoculars come with cases, but the quality and protectiveness can vary from product to product.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars on top of a wooden surface

When packing your binoculars in a bag or suitcase, avoid placing them under heavy items.

She also combed through in-depth testing insights to put together our list of the best binoculars.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars in a pouch

A hand holding the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars on a bag

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars packed in a pouch in a suitcase

The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars on a person’s knee

Occer 12 x 25 Compact Binoculars

Credit: Amazon

A person looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

Credit: Travel + Leisure

A person standing next to a safari jeep wearing the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person holding a pair of Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars while sitting on top of a safari jeep

A person standing next to a safari jeep looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person standing next to a safari jeep wearing the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person sitting on a safari jeep looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person standing outside wearing the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person standing. next to a safari truck while wearing the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person standing next to a safari jeep while looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person standing next to a safari jeep wearing the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person holding a pair of Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars while sitting on top of a safari jeep

A person standing next to a safari jeep looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person standing next to a safari jeep wearing the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person sitting on a safari jeep looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person standing outside wearing the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person standing. next to a safari truck while wearing the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person standing next to a safari jeep while looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

A person looking through the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars

Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

Credit: Amazon

A person using the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

Credit: Travel + Leisure

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars placed on an outdoor ledge

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars on a wooden surface

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars packed in a bag

A hand holding the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars and accessories on a wooden surface

A close-up of the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars close-up while on a wooden surface

A person outdoors while using the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

A hand holding the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

A person using the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars placed on an outdoor ledge

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars on a wooden surface

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars packed in a bag

A hand holding the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars and accessories on a wooden surface

A close-up of the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars close-up while on a wooden surface

A person outdoors while using the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

A hand holding the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42mm Roof Binoculars

Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars

Credit: Amazon

A person using the Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars by a body of water

Credit: Travel + Leisure

An overhead view of the Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars on a wooden surface

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars on a wooden surface

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars on a speckled surface

A person using the Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars while looking out of a window

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars with lens protectors on

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars in their carrying case

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars in a carrying case placed on the ground by a body of water

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars packed in a bag

A person using the Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars by a body of water

An overhead view of the Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars on a wooden surface

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars on a wooden surface

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars on a speckled surface

A person using the Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars while looking out of a window

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars with lens protectors on

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars in their carrying case

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars in a carrying case placed on the ground by a body of water

The Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars packed in a bag

Nikon Prostaff P7 8x42 Binoculars

Credit: REI

A person using the Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular

Credit: Travel + Leisure

A bird seen by using the Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular

The Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular, box, and accessories on a wooden surface

The Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular, box, and accessories on a wooden surface

The Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular packed in a suitcase

A bird spotted through the Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular

A person holding the Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular

A person using the Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular

A bird seen by using the Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular

The Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular, box, and accessories on a wooden surface

The Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular, box, and accessories on a wooden surface

The Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular packed in a suitcase

A bird spotted through the Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular

A person holding the Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8x42 Binocular

Amazon Maven B1.2 42mm ED Binoculars

Credit: Amazon

A person looking through the Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42

Credit: Travel + Leisure

A person holding a pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42

A pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42 on a table outside

A pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42 on a table outside

A pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42 on a table outside

A person standing outside looking through the A pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42 on a table outside

A person holding the Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42

A person looking through the Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42

A person holding a pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42

A pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42 on a table outside

A pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42 on a table outside

A pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42 on a table outside

A person standing outside looking through the A pair of Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42 on a table outside

A person holding the Maven B1.2 - 8x42/10x42

Amazon Nocs Provisions Field Issue Binoculars

Credit: Amazon

A person standing outside looking through the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

Credit: Travel + Leisure

A pair of Nocs Field Issue 8x32 on a table outside

A person holding the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

A person standing outside holding the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

Hands holding the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

A person standing outside holding the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

Nocs Field Issue 8x32 on a table outside

A person standing outside looking through the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

A pair of Nocs Field Issue 8x32 on a table outside

A person holding the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

A person standing outside holding the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

Hands holding the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

A person standing outside holding the Nocs Field Issue 8x32

Nocs Field Issue 8x32 on a table outside

Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binocular

Credit: Vortex

A person looking through the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars

Credit: Travel + Leisure

A person looking through the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars

Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars on a rock

Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars on a rock

A person wearing the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars standing in front of a mountain

A person looking through the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars

A person looking through the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars

A person looking through the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars

Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars on a rock

Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars on a rock

A person wearing the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars standing in front of a mountain

A person looking through the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binoculars

Canon Binoculars 8 x 20

Credit: Amazon

A person using the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20 by a mountain

Credit: Travel + Leisure

A hand holding the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20

A close-up of a hand holding the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20

A person facing to the side while wearing the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20

The Canon Binoculars 8 x 20 and its covers on a fabric backgorund

A hand holding the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20

The Canon Binoculars 8 x 20 in its pouch placed in a bag

A person using the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20 by a mountain

A hand holding the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20

A close-up of a hand holding the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20

A person facing to the side while wearing the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20

The Canon Binoculars 8 x 20 and its covers on a fabric backgorund

A hand holding the Canon Binoculars 8 x 20

The Canon Binoculars 8 x 20 in its pouch placed in a bag

The Coleman Signature 8x40 Waterproof Porro Prism Binoculars on a windowsill

Travel + Leisure

A person using the Nikon Monarch M5 8x42 Binocular

Travel + Leisure