If you generally like the Canon’s photos at home, then take it. A DSLR will greatly add weight, and is really unnecessary if you aren’t a pretty invested amateur. I prefer the rechargeable batteries, if yours are proprietary, you won’t have trouble charging them as long as you buy the proper adapter (a converter probably isn’t necessary – check the voltage on your standard charger).

As for memory, there are different ideas. I like having a few med-large cards, but certainly not just one (depends on your camera, but enough for at least 500 shots). Don’t send them home. If you are traveling long enough to fill up all the cards, burn them to cds along the way and carry one with you, mail the other home (if you’re paranoid).

I agree.  Most digital cameras are power hogs.  You will be constantly replacing AA batteries.  Almost all digitgal camera chargers accept 220 volts “input”, so all you need is the adapter plug to fit the wall outlet.

That sounds good. Are there outlets at hostels (generally speaking) ? And is it safe to charge my camera battery at a hostel?

Sometimes outlets aren’t overly abundant.  Look in the lounge, or for sure the kitchen, and of course don’t leave your camera unattended.

Under a couch or behind a table is usually a good idea because it will be hidden. Take more than 1 battery.

ummm…
i was just shopping for a ipod
and there was an accessory that allowed you to upload the pic u took straight onto ur ipod….
 
not sure how it works… but sounds like a great idea to me
 
it was just on the apple website

Most digital cameras are power hogs. You will be constantly replacing AA batteries. Almost all digital camera chargers accept 220 volts “input”, so all you need is the adapter plug to fit the wall outlet.

——————————————————————————

michal? Really? You are suggesting that a person take all their pictures with the camera plugged into the wall?

Heh.

Rechargeable is the only way to go!

==

I have a Canon powershot A540 (6 megapixels) that I’m taking to Europe next week.

I plan on using re-chargable batteries, mostly to cut down on space and money spent. As for the quality of photos, I am by no means a professional, but I am very satisfied with this little camera. It has many features (try to figure them out before you leave) that will get you the kind of quality photo/video that you need.

Please be advised that the powershot A540 can hold up to a 2GB memory card, which gets about 1,200 unzoomed photos. Nothing beyond 2GB works. However, you can buy a flash drive and upload your photos from your powershot onto there whenever you’re near a computer.