So I've been researching this a lot as a new user, and respectfully, I'd suggest a different approach than just buying heaps of batteries. I'm always worried about losing small parts or damaging the fragile battery door while traveling! - Grip: Instead of the Sony AG-R2 Attachment Grip, check out the Sony LCJ-RXK Jacket Case. I've found it's actually safer because it doesn't rely on adhesive that can peel off in humidity, plus it protects the lens while it's in your bag. - Power: I've had a much better experience using a Anker 533 Power Bank PowerCore 30W 10000mAh than carrying 4 separate batteries. It’s basically less to keep track of, and you can easily charge during those long Shinkansen rides. - Lens Protection: Since the lens mechanism is so delicate, I'd be wary of heavy filters. I'm satisfied just using the Sony PCK-LG1 Screen Protector to keep the LCD safe for now. Honestly, keeping it simple is probably better so you don't stress out. Japan is gonna be awesome tho!!!

> I’m looking at the official Sony AG-R2 attachment grip... For your situation, I would suggest the SmallRig L-Shape Grip for Sony RX100 VII 2462. Unfortunately, I had issues with adhesive grips failing in the heat, which was realy disappointing. It’s about $25. Also, dont overpay for power; the Wasabi Power NP-BX1 1350mAh Battery 2-Pack and Dual USB Charger is a solid budget alternative for way less money tho. Have you checked your 4K power settings yet? gl!

I went through this exact same internal debate when I ditched my heavy DSLR gear for the RX series a while back. Honestly, the biggest game changer for me wasnt the grip, but how I handled the lens situation for travel. I looked at the whole market for filter adapters and there is basically two schools of thought: the magnetic ones and the ones that use a tiny bit of adhesive to stay on. From my research and testing different brands, here is what I found works best for that pocketable vibe:

• Go with Lensmate if you want something super secure that doesnt fall off in your pocket, their engineering is usually top tier for compacts.
• If you are worried about the lens mechanism, MagFilter is the way to go for quick swaps, though I found magnets can sometimes be finicky in a crowded bag.
• For protection, just get any small padded pouch from Peak Design or Think Tank and you can just toss it in your daily backpack. I found that the third-party market for these is way more innovative than Sonys own official accessories tbh. Most of the stuff from those specialized accessory brands feels much more premium and actually fits the pocket beast aesthetic better than those bulky cages, right? Just make sure you get a decent PD capable cable if you go the power bank route.

Jumping in because I'm literally in the same boat right now. My cart has been sitting full for days because I'm so worried about picking the wrong stuff and ruining the camera. It really does feel like a bar of soap, right? Dropping it in a crowded street in Tokyo is my biggest fear.

• Maybe be careful with the third-party power stuff. Someone told me those cheaper brands can sometimes swell, which would be a total disaster for that tiny battery door. Not sure if that's common but it makes me nervous. I've been looking at the Sony NP-BX1 Lithium-Ion Battery instead just to sleep better at night.
• Comparing the Sony official grips vs the metal ones like SmallRig has me totally stuck. A metal cage might scratch the finish or add too much weight, though IIRC some people say the adhesive on the Sony one is weak.
• Hesitation about the filter adapters is real too. The extra weight might strain the lens motor over time, especially with how much it moves during zoom. Tbh I'm just as confused as you are lol. It's such a struggle to find that perfect balance of protection without making it bulky again.

I totally feel you on the bar of soap thing, I was honestly terrified of dropping mine within five minutes of taking it out of the box lol. I actually ended up DIY-ing a little wrist strap using some old paracord I had in the garage because I didnt want to spend extra money on some fancy brand name thing. It actually worked out great and I felt so satisfied with it. It reminds me of this one time I tried to fix my own kitchen sink with just some duct tape and a dream... yeah that didnt go as well. Ended up flooding half the kitchen and had to call my brother-in-law to come bail me out at 2 AM. He still brings it up at every single Thanksgiving dinner and its been like four years now. My sister just sits there laughing while I try to explain that I almost had it fixed. Anyway lol sorry I kinda went off on a tangent there.

In my experience, I unfortunately had issues with the official grip adhesive, SO annoying. - Get 4 batteries tho
- Dont rely on USB Cuz 4K KILLS power in 30 mins! Shooting 4K...?