When you’re out traveling, it only feels natural to take your camera with you. Taking photos and videos is a great way to keep new memories fresh, and there are so many ways to do so now, thanks to technological advancements. But cameras and film equipment are expensive, and damaging them can set you back for a lot of money, not to mention some parts are difficult to fix or replace when you’re on a trip. It only makes sense to pack these things carefully.
But packing cameras is not a one-size-fits-all kind of situation. You must think of the make and accessories of your unit, not to mention where you’ll be and what for. There are many factors to consider, and it can be confusing, so this list will be your short-form guide to packing your filming equipment well. Pack with care, and you should have no problems taking your cameras with you.
Check what kind of camera you already have.
This determines how to care for it on your excursion and which extra accessories you might have to pack. A smaller camera like a Polaroid or digital camera is easy to store and usually come with their own protective cases. Still, you might need to pack extra Polaroid films or batteries. Smaller cameras are more practical if you are going to be following a tour, so get a neck strap or handle so that you don’t lose yours. Smaller units are easier to lose.
For bulkier models of cameras, you might have to disassemble some parts to pack them more efficiently. You could detach larger zoom lenses and store them in a foam-supported case so that they don’t break or get damaged in transit. Larger models have more parts and require better care to pack due to their more complex structure. If needed, ask people who use the same models online for advice.
Think of where your destination will be.
When packing a camera, one must consider the destination. If you’re thinking of bringing a restored vintage film camera, you might want to protect it and your rolls of film from being exposed to direct heat, so taking it on a trip to the desert would not be wise. Alternatively, if you and yours are headed on a boat tour to see the islands, taking a bulky DSLR would also mean trouble. Think twice and be mindful about where you’re headed.
Knowing where you’re going will help you pack better because you’ll know what kind of climates to expect. Reading up on your destination makes it easy for you to protect your cameras better, and you would not run the risk of hurting your equipment. You would also know which kind of bag to store it in for maximum protection.
Remember what kind of trip it will be.
A serious business trip with your office associates would not call for a complicated setup, whereas a weekend on the town with your best mates might require something with longer battery life. The purpose of your trip can help you whittle down bag selection. Having to fish a small camcorder out from under a padded satchel might leave you frustrated, so it’s best to mind what the purpose of your trip will be.
You also have to align your gear to the why and how-long of the trip. For example, a film fixer would obviously pack differently from students on an excursion with their class. When in doubt, refer to your schedules and pack your cameras accordingly. Different equipment needs require different packing techniques.
A camera could be a great asset to have on any trip, but if you’re taking it at the great cost of breaking it or packing less-than-meticulously, then a camera would be trouble. Make sure to take extra measures to safeguard your gear: bring silica gel packets, padded cases, protective films to err more on the safe side. Do ample research on the kinds you already own. There is never enough knowledge and being careful, especially when it comes to tech devices you already own.
You could also head to your local shops and ask about how else to pack properly. Having your model break in the middle of the trip is a regrettable thing, so take extra care. After packing correctly, you’re sure to make better memories on your trip, and the people you’re with will greatly appreciate your foresight. Now, happy trails, and take loads of photographs.
