The RPi Zero is not very fast; it is a miniaturized version of the original RPi. It is also limited on USB ports; I use a Micro USB Ethernet with 3 Port Hub https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L32UUJK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 for programming. The Zero-W has a little PCB antenna on the side... not sure of the range. They have their place, if you need a small lightweight board. It takes a special camera ribbon for the smaller connector. The camera works great on it but programs run a little slow. I am going to use one in a RC spy critter and mount the camera in the eye...
The RPi Zero sold for $5.00 US. The Zero-W came out shortly after... and you are right... stores could not keep them on the shelves, they sold out fast. Sense you are not restricted to space or LiPo batteries I really think an old Pi2 or Pi3 would be better and maybe install a dipole antenna on top of the box for better range.
Does this mean that I have to tell my wife we are not going to Australia now... 
Just down the road... http://www.microcenter.com/product/475267/zero_wireless_development_board