I'm about to embark on a year trip around the world and will be doing a lot of filming throughout the journey, mostly through Central America.

I use an XL1S at the moment, but it's too big to carry around while backpacking, plus it has a bit of that "I've got expensive stuff, please come and rob me" look about it. That look is great when I go to concerts or surf comps because you generally get pushed through the gates and sat upfront, but in this case I think low profile is the key.

For those that have already bought the HV10, how does it go in travel situations? I'm aware I'll have to get one or two extra batteries for it, but how are the record times when only using the view finder?

will it take a knock or two on the road and still keep rolling? What about dust?

Is this the ideal travel camera, or should I hold off for the HV20?

Thanks in advance...

The HV10 is a lot smaller and lighter than the HV20.

Unless you need 24fps, get the HV10.

Just my humble opinion.

i have an HV10 and think it is a fantastic choice. the only issue is the lack of audio input...with all that traveling, you'll undoubtedly meet some pretty interesting people who you might want to interview, and the in-camera sound is not good. that would be the major downside. it's a rugged unit, though, i spent a week in the desert with mine, and it was great. get the long life batteries, though. get several...