If I had to choose one item to never forget while traveling, it would have to be my camera.

Photo by Silvio Tanaka

A good digital camera not only documents your journeys, but also allows you to relive trips over and over again with friends and loved ones once back home.

With affordability in mind, I’ve compiled a list of the top 5 point-and-shoot digital cameras under $300.

Nikon Coolpix S60

This brilliant new model is at the top of our price range with a manufacturer’s price of $299.99. Small and compact, it is loaded with state of the art features including an anti-glare 3.5 inch Touch Screen which sets it apart.

You can browse through pictures or add subtitles right on top of photos with the touch of your finger. It even has a feature that allows you to select the focal point of each picture by clicking an object on the screen.

The camera then ensures that object is focused upon for a clean, crisp photo.

The S60 offers 10 megapixels, a 5x optical zoom, and Nikon’s latest in fast image processing to guarantee you won’t miss a shot.

Kodak Easyshare Z1012IS

If packing space is no issue, then this camera is for you. The Kodak Easyshare Z1012 combines the digital quality benefits of an expensive professional camera with a low cost of $249.99

While it is larger than other cameras on this list, you will come back with amazing shots.

The main feature of this unit is its 12x Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon optical zoom lens. Think something is way too far away to capture? No way!

With this camera, you’ll never miss a detail. Its huge zoom range, 10.1 megapixel quality, and the overall ease of Kodak products make this a sure winner.

Samsung S860

At $99.99, the S860 combines Samsung quality with a well-rounded camera at a price for the true budget traveler.

It provides 8.1 megapixels, a 3x optical zoom, and a 2.4 inch screen.

While the other cameras on the list have built-in rechargeable batteries, the S860 takes 2 AA batteries.

This fact can come in handy for the true budget traveler.

No charger to carry, no power converter to carry. Just bring a few extra batteries and you’re good to go.

Casio EX-Z250

The EX-Z250 by Casio is a new camera in their Exilim line.

I am particularly biased towards Casio because I have been using one for several years now and have been very happy with it.

Casio cameras are easy to use and give you a lot of functionality for your money.

For $249.99, this model has 9.1 Megapixels, a 4x optical zoom, and a 3 inch screen.

Canon PowerShot SD750

Rounding out the list is the PowerShot SD750 with a manufacturer’s price of $199.99.

The SD750 has 7.1 Megapixels, 3x optical zoom, a 3 inch screen, and a built in rechargeable battery.

And of course, you get proven Canon quality that’s been around for years.

No matter your travel style or photography budget, one of these cameras is sure to suit your needs.

So before your next trip, go buy one.