So, I actually faced a similar choice last summer when I took my kit across Italy. Honestly, the biggest thing I learned is how much the high resolution of that sensor changes your lens strategy. Because you have so many megapixels to work with, I found myself caring way less about the long end of my zoom. I could basically crop in and still have plenty of detail for prints, which made me rethink the need for that extra reach. I mean... I initially went with the heavier, faster lens because I thought I'd need the low-light performance for those narrow European alleys. But after ten miles a day, the weight really started to wear on me. On my next trip, I switched to the one with the more versatile range and a smaller aperture. Tbh, the stabilization in these new bodies is so insane that the aperture difference mattered way less than I expected, even at dusk. I realized that for travel, having that extra bit of focal length—or even just a lighter setup that doesn't kill my neck—was a total game changer. Just something to think about regarding how you plan to balance that sensor's resolution vs the physical toll of carrying it.

Melody is totally right about the cropping. With 45MP on that R5II, you can punch in quite a bit and still have a high-res image. I saw this earlier and wanted to chime in because i've done the Europe trek with both of those lenses. Honestly, for travel, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is the winner. The f/4 aperture really isnt a drawback anymore because the R5 II handles high ISO like a champ and the IBIS/Lens IS combo lets you handhold ridiculous shutter speeds for dark cathedrals. You're saving roughly 200g over the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM and that extra reach from 70-105mm is super handy for detail shots on buildings. If you're worried about bokeh or low light for street photography at night, I usually just pack a Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM. Its tiny, weighs almost nothing, and gives you that fast aperture when you actually need it. Tbh lugging the 24-70 f/2.8 all day through cobblestone streets gets old fast... trust me on that one lol. Regarding third party, Sigma just started doing RF lenses but they're mostly crop sensor for now, so you're better off sticking with the native glass for that body. Use the price difference to buy more gelato.

Coming back to this... I've tried many combos over the years and carrying a heavy f/2.8 zoom all day is basically a young mans game. My back still hurts thinking about my first trip to Prague with a massive kit. If you want to stay cost-conscious and light, try this:

• Get the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM instead of the L glass to save weight and cash.
• Carry a Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM for low light and architecture. The R5 II is so good you really dont need the most expensive lenses for travel. Spend those savings on better food or a private tour... you wont regret having a lighter bag when youre ten miles into a walking tour.

Saving this whole thread. So much good info here you guys are awesome.