Here are some top contenders:

The Sony 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS offers exceptional versatility with its wide zoom range. It's relatively compact, provides good image quality across the range, and includes optical stabilization. It's my go-to recommendation for beginners or those wanting a true one-lens solution.

If image quality is paramount, the Sony 16-55mm f/2.8 G is unbeatable on APS-C. The constant f/2.8 aperture excels in low light, but you sacrifice zoom range and pay a premium.

The Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 hits a sweet spot between range and aperture with excellent optics at a more reasonable price point than Sony's G lens.

Budget-conscious travelers should consider the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8, which offers surprising sharpness and a compact build at roughly half the price of Sony's equivalent.

For those willing to carry two lenses, pairing the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 with the Sony 70-350mm G gives you incredible low-light capability for cityscapes plus amazing reach for wildlife.

Late to the party but thought id share my experience. I spent years lugging around a huge kit across Europe and honestly, it almost ruined the hobby for me. I was so focused on having the perfect focal length for every single street corner that I was constantly swapping glass and missing the actual moment. Eventually, I just switched to a tiny pancake lens for a trip to Japan. It was a total game changer. Having a setup that actually fits in a pocket meant I took ten times more photos because the camera was always in my hand instead of tucked away in a backpack. I learned that for travel, portability is king. Nowadays I prioritize weight over everything else. If it doesnt fit in my small sling bag, it stays home. You might think you need that extra reach, but most of my favorite travel shots were taken with a simple, wide-ish setup where I just walked closer to the subject. My current setup is basically just one small prime and it feels so much more liberating.