Traveling With Professional Camera Equipment

Other than a diamond-studded suitcase, professional camera equipment can be one of the most expensive things you take on your trip. And you don’t just risk losing money if your prized DSLR is damaged or stolen; you might lose weeks’ worth of memories. Follow these tips to ensure the safety of your photo gear.

If you decide to carry your equipment on the plane (a wise idea), snagging enough overhead compartment space may pose a challenge depending on the size of your gear. Booking a seat toward the back of plane will increase your chance of boarding first, giving you the pick of the litter.

When traveling in multiple countries, stay informed of each country’s public photography laws. For example, France recently passed a law making it illegal to photograph anyone in public without that person’s express consent.

If you plan on leaving your equipment at your hotel or hostel while sightseeing, invest in a quality suitcase lock to securely store your gear. Hard-shell suitcases work better, for obvious reasons.

Pricey cameras are prime targets for pickpockets and scam artists, so it’s important to keep your camera guarded at all times. Always wear the strap around your neck or across your body, never just on one shoulder. You may want to think about purchasing a metal neck strap, as pickpockets have been known to stealthily cut standard fabric straps using scissors or a knife. If you’re taking a break at a café, avoid hanging your camera or camera bag from the chair. Instead, keep it on your lap or on the table.

For one final precaution against a camera-hungry world, don’t forget to back-up your photos on a laptop, external hard drive or multiple high-capacity memory cards. Or just Instagram everything.