A guide to traveling with your camera gear

Every traveling photographer knows the difficulties of packing all camera gear in one bag. This is especially true when backpacking to an area where bringing lots of equipment is discouraged. While the initial reaction can be just to stuff everything one can into the limited space, there are better ways to travel and ensure that camera gear is safe as well. Listed below are some great tips to remember.

Image Source: lifehacker.com

Use an old bag: This does seem counter-intuitive. Most photographers would say that purchasing a new bag -- especially one dedicated for cameras -- is ideal to prevent wreckage. This is true; however, using an old bag (but not wrecked!) can address a traveling photographers’ needs just fine. There are two reasons to take note of. The first is that a worn-out looking bag actually has more room than a newly-bought bag. The difference is only a few inches, but this can make a world of difference. Moreover, the bag is more pliable and able to conform to various shapes of gear being brought. Secondly, an older-looking bag would look less appealing to opportunistic thieves. This does sound rather morbid to think about, but it always pays to be safe than sorry. 

Tone it down: The novice traveling photographer may be excited to test all their equipment at the get-go. This means trying to bring several equipment all at once. This is a big no-no. The best way to travel with camera gear is to only bring the equipment necessary to the destination. The bag should only contain essentials like a DLSR camera with whatever added features that are needed. 

Keep on eye open: Be very wary when photographing in crowded places. Traveling photographers need to develop the skill of keeping their non-shooting eye keen and being aware of their peripheral vision. It is extremely important not to become overly distracted or focused on one’s work.

Remember to replace cards: One thing many traveling photographers forget is to swap memory cards. It is true that today’s technology has allowed for memory cards to have massive storage. However, keeping all of one’s eggs in one basket is not a good idea, either. It is best to swap cards often and rotate them, as an added precaution in case one gets robbed. Traveling and taking photos is a wonderful experience. Nevertheless, safety should always be considered. Every photographer should know how to take care of their gear properly. 

Image Source: theroadlestraveled.com

Ashwin Khubchandani is a travel photographer and considers Hong Kong as one of his favorite destinations. For more photography tips, follow him on Twitter.