Many of us want to capture our travel memories more vividly, but when it comes to starting a vlog, it’s easy to wonder, “Which camera should I choose?”
I’ve tried several models in the past, and for my upcoming trips, I decided to go with the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro — a compact, easy-to-use camera that delivers stunning high-quality footage. It’s lightweight, travel-friendly, and perfect even for beginners who want to capture beautiful scenes effortlessly.
In this post, I’ll share why I chose the Osmo Action 5 Pro and what makes it an ideal camera for travel vlogs.
I’m a travel and lifestyle blogger based in Okinawa, Japan — @owncolorstravel— sharing stories, travel tips, and useful finds for fellow travel lovers.
What Is the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro?
Why It’s So Popular Among Travel Vloggers
If you want to capture travel scenery and everyday moments naturally, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is one of the most talked-about action cameras among YouTubers and vloggers right now.
DJI is best known for its world-class drones, but it has also earned high praise for its action cameras. The latest Osmo Action 5 Pro is truly an all-in-one camera made for travel lovers — compact, powerful, and designed for creativity on the go.
With 4K ultra-smooth video, advanced image stabilization, and waterproof performance, this camera handles everything from city walks to outdoor adventures like diving, snorkeling, and surfing.
It’s lightweight and compact, so you can easily pull it out from your bag and start shooting anytime — one of the main reasons it’s loved by many creators.
Another big advantage is the dual touch screens — one on the front and one on the back — making it perfect for vlogging and selfies. You can quickly capture moments as they happen, without worrying about complicated settings.
Editing is also a breeze. With DJI’s official app, DJI Mimo, you can automatically edit your footage on your smartphone and share it directly to social media. Even if video editing used to feel time-consuming, this feature makes content creation much smoother and more enjoyable.
In short, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro combines everything a travel vlogger needs:
high-quality 4K footage, powerful stabilization, ease of use, and quick editing tools.
It’s the ultimate action camera for anyone who wants to record their journeys with style and simplicity.
In short, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro combines everything a travel vlogger needs:
high-quality 4K footage, powerful stabilization, ease of use, and quick editing tools.
It’s the ultimate action camera for anyone who wants to record their journeys with style and simplicity.
Why I Chose the Osmo Action 5 Pro and What Makes It So Impressive
Until now, I’ve been filming my travel vlogs with the Osmo Pocket 2 and the Insta360 ONE X2. Both are great cameras, but as technology continues to evolve, I started feeling that they were no longer quite enough for what I wanted to create.
Even a few years make a big difference in camera performance — just like with smartphones, right?
The Osmo Pocket 2 was super convenient because of its palm-sized design and smooth gimbal footage. However, the small screen often made it hard to check framing while shooting. I didn’t mind it much when I first bought it, but over time I realized how tricky it was to adjust the composition during filming.
The Insta360 ONE X2, on the other hand, was a lot of fun to use. I loved its 360° shooting capability and how immersive the footage felt — it really brought travel moments to life.
But as social media platforms have moved toward higher video resolutions, editing 360° footage in high quality became more time-consuming than I’d like.
I also looked into DJI’s newest compact model, the Osmo Nano, which comes with a multifunctional Vision Dock. It’s lightweight and magnetic, allowing you to easily mount it on hats or helmets — great for hands-free shooting. However, with about 90 minutes of battery life and concerns about overheating during long recordings (as many reviews mentioned), I felt it might not be the best fit for travel vlogging.
So, I narrowed it down to two strong contenders: the Osmo Pocket 3, which can shoot both vertically and horizontally, and the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro.
After comparing multiple reviews and real-world tests, I finally decided on the Action 5 Pro.
The key factors for me were its intuitive controls, freedom of movement, and impressive image stabilization without a gimbal.
It also supports both vertical and horizontal shooting — perfect for the kind of travel content I create.
Despite its pocket-sized body, it has a large, bright display that’s easy to see outdoors, and it powers on quickly so I never miss a moment.
Plus, its waterproof and durable design makes it ideal for shooting in places like Okinawa, where wind, sea, and nature are always part of the adventure.
In the end, I realized that the Osmo Action 5 Pro is the perfect all-rounder for travel vloggers:
it’s quick to start, smooth to edit, and captures stunning visuals — a true three-in-one combination.
I can already tell this will be my new go-to companion for upcoming trips.
Advanced Stabilization for Every Scene – Four Modes to Match Your Style
One of the most impressive features of the Osmo Action 5 Pro is its evolved image stabilization system.
No matter where you travel — whether you’re walking through city streets or capturing an active adventure — this camera keeps your footage incredibly smooth and stable.
RockSteady
The standard stabilization mode that keeps your footage naturally steady, perfect for everyday shooting or casual city-walk Vlogs.
RockSteady+
When you need even stronger stabilization, this mode steps up. It’s ideal for cycling or other high-motion activities.
Although the image is slightly cropped, it allows you to capture dynamic and powerful scenes with confidence.
HorizonBalancing
This mode automatically corrects tilts within ±45°, keeping the horizon smoothly level.
It’s perfect for handheld walking shots or lifestyle Vlogs where you move around, such as showing cafés or street views.
Available up to 4K 60fps.
HorizonSteady
No matter how much you rotate or twist the camera, the horizon stays perfectly level — almost as if you were using a gimbal.
Even in highly active scenes, the footage remains incredibly stable and professional-looking.
This mode supports up to 2.7K (16:9) 60fps.
Go for the Action Combo!
With the Osmo Action 5 Pro, you can choose from different combo sets depending on your shooting style and needs.
Before purchasing, think about how and where you’ll be using your camera — that will help you pick the best option.
Standard Combo (with basic accessories)
The standard set includes the Osmo Action Extreme Battery Plus (1950 mAh), which offers an impressive runtime of up to 4 hours of continuous shooting.
It’s designed to perform reliably in extreme conditions, operating smoothly in temperatures from -20°C to 45°C — perfect for both winter adventures and tropical shoots.
Adventure Combo (recommended for travel and long shoots)
In addition to the basic accessories, this combo comes with a 1.5-meter extension rod, a multi-functional battery case, and an extra battery.
The battery case is a real game changer — it can charge up to three batteries simultaneously, store microSD cards, and even work as a portable power bank.
It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it incredibly useful for long shooting sessions or travel days when you’re filming a lot.
I personally went with the Action Combo, and then purchased a few additional accessories I thought would match my own filming style.
In the next section, I’ll share the accessories I found most useful and how I plan to use them.
Recommended Accessories: Tripods and More
SD Card
One of the great things about the Osmo Action 5 Pro is that it comes with a generous 47GB of built-in storage, allowing you to shoot and save videos even without an SD card.
However, if you plan to film for long periods or store multiple clips from your travels, it’s a good idea to have a reliable microSD card ready.
Here are the officially recommended SD cards listed on DJI’s website:
SanDisk Extreme PRO 32GB U3 A1 V30 microSDHC
Kingston CANVAS Go! Plus 64GB U3 A2 V30 microSDXC
Kingston CANVAS Go! Plus 128GB U3 A2 V30 microSDXC
Kingston CANVAS Go! Plus 256GB U3 A2 V30 microSDXC
Kingston CANVAS Go! Plus 512GB U3 A2 V30 microSDXC
Lexar Professional 1066x 64GB U3 A2 V30 microSDXC
Lexar Professional 1066x 128GB U3 A2 V30 microSDXC
Lexar Professional 1066x 256GB U3 A2 V30 microSDXC
Lexar Professional 1066x 512GB U3 A2 V30 microSDXC
Kingston CANVAS Go! Plus 1TB U3 A2 V30 microSDXC
Even if you’re only recording short daily clips, having extra storage gives you peace of mind — especially when you’re traveling and don’t always have time to transfer your footage right away.
If you love filming in 4K, a larger-capacity SD card will be your best friend.
It’s a bit more expensive, but totally worth it for capturing all your travel memories in beautiful detail.
DJI Osmo Action Hanging Neck Mount
This mount is worn around your neck like a necklace, and its biggest advantage is that it lets you film hands-free — perfect for capturing videos from a first-person perspective! Honestly, I could say this accessory alone was reason enough for me to get the Osmo Action 5 Pro. I can already imagine how fun it’ll be to record travel scenes or casual walks through the city from this unique viewpoint.
It takes a little practice to get used to putting it on, but surprisingly, it feels quite comfortable around the neck, so I think I could wear it for long periods while filming. And when the camera gets in the way or I want to switch to the 1.5-meter extension rod, the magnetic quick-release adapter makes removal super smooth.
(*Note: The quick-release adapter mount is sold separately.)
Screen Protector
I also got a screen protector for the Action 5 Pro. It was surprisingly easy to apply and went on perfectly without bubbles. The surface has a water- and oil-repellent coating, which helps prevent fogging or smudges — ideal for filming around the ocean or pool. I mainly purchased it to protect the screen from unexpected scratches, but the clarity and smooth touch make it feel just like the original screen.
Tripod
The 1.5-meter extension rod included in the Action Combo doesn’t come with a tripod, so I decided to look for a separate one (not from DJI).
I found a compact, palm-sized tabletop tripod that’s perfect for travel. It’s 17.6 cm tall, weighs only 190 g, and is sturdy enough to stay steady on the ground — that extra bit of height really makes a difference. Each of the three legs has a 1/4-inch screw hole, allowing you to attach accessories like a camera monitor, microphone, or LED light, which adds great flexibility.
A tripod is essential for solo travelers — whether you’re setting up for a steady landscape shot or taking self-portraits hands-free, it becomes your reliable travel buddy.
Floating Selfie Stick
A must-have accessory to pair with the Osmo Action 5 Pro is this floating multi-function grip. It’s perfect for filming around water — whether you’re at the beach, by the river, in the pool, or even out fishing — keeping your camera safe and afloat.
Designed with high buoyancy, it stays on the surface if dropped, and the bright orange cap makes it easy to spot right away.
What makes this grip even more impressive is its 4-in-1 versatility!
It functions as a hand grip, tripod, selfie stick, and floating stand, allowing you to adapt freely depending on your shooting style. Weighing only about 150g and measuring 22cm when stored, it’s lightweight and compact — yet extendable up to 60cm for flexible shooting angles. It can even serve as an alternative to the 1.5-meter extension rod included in the Adventure Combo, making it a handy all-in-one solution.
Compatible with a wide range of action cameras including GoPro and Osmo Action series, this grip is ideal for water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Plus, it comes with a wrist strap for extra security — so you can focus on capturing your adventure without worrying about losing your camera.
Car Mount
If you love capturing scenic drives or documenting road trips, the sun visor mount is the perfect accessory. Simply slide it onto your car’s visor, and you’re ready to start filming in seconds — no complicated setup required.
It allows you to shoot from a forward-facing perspective, making it ideal for driving Vlogs or recording the passing scenery. The result? Immersive, first-person footage that feels like you’re reliving the journey through your own eyes.
Thanks to its ball head design, you can easily adjust angles — tilt up, down, or sideways — giving you complete control over how you frame your shots.
The anti-slip grip and rubber padding ensure that the mount stays firmly in place, even on bumpy roads, keeping your footage stable and clear.
I’ve tried various in-car mounts over time, but this one stands out for being the lightest, simplest, and easiest to handle.
Compatible with a range of action cameras, including GoPro and DJI Osmo Action, this is a must-have accessory for anyone who enjoys filming their road adventures or creating travel Vlogs from the driver’s seat.
DJI 1 Year Extended Premium Support（Osmo Action 5 Pro）
DJI offers a 1-Year Extended Premium Support Plan, with a 2-year option also available.
This plan covers accidental damage such as collisions or water exposure, so you can shoot confidently without worrying about unexpected accidents.
You can use the refresh replacement service up to twice a year, ensuring your camera stays in top condition at all times.
When exchanged, DJI will replace it with a new or equivalent product, so there’s no compromise on quality.
Having this extended support plan really helps reduce travel worries like, “What if it breaks or gets wet during my trip?”
It’s reassuring to know that DJI has a reliable support system, making it easier to use your Osmo Action 5 Pro for years with confidence — even around the ocean, pool, or outdoors.
Who Osmo Action 5 Pro Is Perfect For
The Osmo Action 5 Pro is an ideal action camera for anyone who wants to capture their travels and everyday moments in stunning quality — effortlessly.
Here are the types of people I especially recommend it for:
1. Beginners who want to enjoy Vlogging without complicated settings
The simple button layout makes it easy to start filming right after turning it on.
Even if you’re new to cameras, you can capture “professional-looking” videos without any technical knowledge.
2. Travelers who value portability and easy handling
Compact yet powerful, the Osmo Action 5 Pro is waterproof and reliable even for outdoor or seaside shoots.
You can slip it into your bag and be ready to capture beautiful moments anytime, anywhere.
3. Creators who care about image quality
With 4K/120fps high resolution and HDR video, it captures natural light and shadow beautifully — perfect for scenic landscapes, city streets, and detailed close-ups.
4. Social media users who edit and post directly from their phone
Using the DJI Mimo app, you can trim, color correct, and share your videos right from your smartphone.
It’s perfect for finishing up your Vlog during your trip and sharing your adventures instantly.
Especially for those thinking, “I want to start Vlogging, but I’m not sure which camera to choose,” the Osmo Action 5 Pro is a clear recommendation.
Its combination of simple operation and high-quality video is what truly sets this camera apart.
Another advantage of cameras with gimbal functionality is their ability to automatically stabilize footage, allowing you to capture smooth, professional-looking videos with ease.
When choosing a camera, it’s worth thinking about what kind of shots you want to take.
If you want to fully take advantage of a gimbal’s capabilities, the Osmo Pocket 3 can be a strong companion for creating steady, cinematic footage.
Real Advantages and Considerations from Using It
Pros of the Osmo Action 5 Pro
Intuitive and stress-free operation
The moment you turn it on, you can start filming right away. Touch controls are smooth, and you rarely have to worry about confusing settings. Being able to capture the moment instantly is a huge advantage for travel Vlogs.
Stunning 4K/120fps + HDR video
Whether it’s the deep blue of the sea and sky, the gradient of a sunset, or city neon lights, every scene is incredibly sharp and vivid. Even in high-contrast situations, colors remain natural, making your footage look great without heavy editing.
Durable and reliable: waterproof, dustproof, and shock-resistant
You can shoot outdoors or by the water with confidence. Even if unexpected rain hits during your travels, you can keep filming without interruption.
Smooth vertical and horizontal shooting
Switching between portrait and landscape is easy, making it simple to create content for social media reels and short videos. The vertical video-friendly design is perfect for today’s style of sharing travel moments.
Cons of the Osmo Action 5 Pro
Can get slightly warm during long recordings
When filming continuously in high-quality 4K mode, the camera body can become a bit warm. However, for short recordings this is rarely an issue, and the included case helps protect it from heat.
Slight noise in low-light or night shooting
The camera performs brilliantly in bright daylight, but in darker settings, 4K footage can sometimes look a little grainy. Still, considering its portable size, the image quality is very impressive.