I was very impressed by the 8x32 Verano HD when I tried them years ago. Very bright, sharp, wide FOV with a remarkably large sweet spot for the price. It was fully competitive with more expensive options like Conquest HD 8x32 and arguably better than price peers like Viper Hd 8x32. I also felt the view was extremely similar to that of the Countryman HD, the biggest difference to me was the physical shape of each.
I have yet to use the Traveler but it obviously gets high marks for optics from many credible forum members.
Ergonomics and size/weight will be the biggest differences. The Verano is an open double-bridge with fairly thick barrels and relatively chunkier and heavier. The Traveler has a “high bridge” with open barrels which are very slim, and is overall more slender and lightweight. The biggest issue (for me) with the Verano is the huge eyecups — this is always a challenge for me due to my face shape.
Personally, I dislike the ergonomics of binoculars that are TOO small / slender / light. I had the M7 8x30 for years and always found it awkward to hold. I just got a pair of Swaro CL 8x30 (now for sale in the classifieds) which’s brilliant optically but also didn’t agree with me ergonomically — I just don’t like how there’s nothing solid to wrap my hands around, the barrels are too slim for me.
On the flip side, I love the hand feel of more “chunky” 32’s like the Kowa Genesis, Zeiss Conquest Hd, or Meopta Meostar. I find it much more comfortable to hold steady and use for extended outings. Just feels more “right” in my hands, so I am confident I would prefer the Verano’s extra bulk to the slim and slender Traveler as a “daily use” option.
But we are all different, and you may enjoy the more slender light feel of the Traveler (you had and liked a Swaro CL ergonomically right?). If this is more of a travel bin or something you will carry in a pack, the slimmer/lighter Traveler is likely a better fit.
As always, the correct answer is “order both”!