Chateau Lavoute Polignac, Lavoûte-sur-Loire
Fujifilm GFX100S II, Fujinon GF100-200mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR, f11 @ 1/60, ISO 200

There’s a short answer to this question: yes. However, there are other considerations.

On a walk through the Western Arthurs years ago, weight was an issue so I took just the one camera with a couple of lenses. However, if my camera had broken down, I would have been sorely disappointed. Although I also had taken two GoPro cameras with me (you can see the little video I produced on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3FncH-YrJY), capturing the high-resolution landscape I had in mind wouldn’t have been the same. Then again, I might not have made it if I took too much gear!

If the main purpose of your travel is photography, then I think it makes sense to take a spare camera. Of course, if you’re travelling to locations with plenty of camera stores or access to a DHL courier, you may be prepared to risk it and make a speedy purchase if required. Even so, that could take a day or two and if you’re on the move, couriers can be challenged to find you!

On most trips, I always take two cameras. Sometimes it’s two different cameras systems (such as the Phase One for landscapes and the Fujifilm X series for wildlife), but if I’m being smart about it, it’s two identical cameras. However, one of the cameras may stay in my suitcase or back at the hotel. I don’t necessarily need to use two cameras, I just have one there in case the other one breaks down.

Not everyone has the budget for two cameras, but a backup camera doesn’t have to be the same model as your prime camera. All the backup has to do is get you out of a bind, so as long as it has the same lens mount and sensor size, it can be a secondhand or older model.

Or you can use your mobile phone and take the opportunity to challenge yourself to create great travel photos with less than optimum equipment!