Sachin Walls
Travelling with camera gear can be stressful for photographers due to the risk of loss or damage, changing rules, and unclear regulations. While cameras are generally allowed through airport security, travellers with camera gear may be required to remove their equipment from their bags and place them in separate trays for scanning. This can be a concern for photographers as it increases the risk of someone accidentally taking their gear and makes the equipment more vulnerable to damage. Additionally, there are concerns about potential damage to film cameras from X-ray machines, although this risk can be mitigated by requesting a hand check or using a Do Not X-Ray pouch. Batteries are another critical consideration when travelling with camera equipment, as certain regulations must be followed for safe packing and transport. Overall, while cameras are permitted through airport security, travellers should be aware of the potential challenges and take appropriate precautions to protect their equipment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can cameras go through airport security? | Yes, cameras can go through airport security. However, it is at the discretion of the TSA officer whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint. |
| How to carry cameras through airport security? | Cameras must be removed from the camera bag and placed separately in a tray for scanning. |
| Tips for going through security with a camera | Sign up for TSA Precheck to avoid most security inspection processes. Place film in a clear ziplock bag or a "Do Not X-Ray" pouch. Keep the film easily accessible in the side pocket of your carry-on bag. |
| Risks | There is a risk of losing camera gear as it goes through the X-ray machine. Other travelers may grab your gear by mistake. Film may be damaged by X-ray machines. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA Precheck and Global Entry
TSA PreCheck® is a program that expedites traveller screening through participating TSA security checkpoints. It costs \$85 for a 5-year membership, allowing you to go through security without removing your shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. To apply, you must undergo an in-person appointment, including a background check and fingerprinting. Once approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number, which you can include in your airline bookings. Your boarding pass will then have the TSA PreCheck symbol, giving you access to the PreCheck lanes.
US citizens, US lawful permanent residents, and citizens of partner countries enrolled in Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI are eligible for TSA PreCheck. Canadian citizens who are NEXUS members can also participate. Eligible Global Entry members can enter their membership number in the "Known Traveler Number" field when booking reservations or enter it into their frequent flyer profile.
Global Entry is a US Customs and Border Patrol program that includes TSA PreCheck benefits. It provides expedited US customs screening for international air travelers entering the US. At select airports, Global Entry members can use kiosks by presenting their passports or permanent resident cards, scanning their fingerprints, and completing a customs declaration. The kiosk will then issue a transaction receipt and direct them to baggage claim and the exit. The application process is similar to TSA PreCheck, but the cost is \$100 for a 5-year membership.
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Keeping camera gear in sight
Going through airport security with camera equipment can be stressful. You may be asked to remove all your gear from your bag, and it can be separated from you as it goes through the X-ray machine, creating a risk of loss or theft. Here are some tips to keep your camera gear in sight and secure when navigating airport security.
Organise Your Gear
Keep your camera gear and other items packed in a single, organised layer in your bag. This makes it easily viewable on the scanner, reducing the likelihood of a manual search. If you have a lot of gear, consider using a camera bag insert to keep things organised and discreet.
Be Vigilant
Always keep a close eye on your equipment as it goes through the screening process. Although the risk of loss or theft is low, it is possible for other travellers to accidentally grab your gear. If you do lose your equipment, contact the TSA group at the airport as soon as possible.
TSA Precheck
If you are a frequent traveller, consider signing up for TSA Precheck. This allows you to go through security without removing certain items, such as shoes, laptops, and light jackets. While it doesn't guarantee that your gear will always remain in sight, it can streamline the security process and reduce the time your gear is out of view.
Hand Checks
If you are carrying film, you can request a hand check instead of sending it through the X-ray machine, which can potentially damage the film. This also keeps your gear in sight and allows you to address any questions or concerns the TSA officers may have.
Separate Bags
Consider using separate bags for your camera gear and other electronics, such as laptops. This way, if one bag needs to be inspected, the other remains with you, reducing the time all your gear is out of sight.
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Scanning and hand-checks
Scanning Procedures:
When passing through TSA security with camera gear, it's essential to be aware of the scanning requirements. Electronics larger than a cellphone, including cameras and laptops, must be removed from your bag and scanned separately in a plastic tray. This means that you will need to have your camera easily accessible, preferably in a separate camera bag or laptop bag, to facilitate quick removal and scanning. Keep in mind that TSA officers have the discretion to re-scan your gear if they deem it necessary, so be prepared for potential additional checks.
Hand-Checks:
While scanning is standard, you can also request a hand-check for your camera gear. This is especially relevant if you are travelling with film, as X-ray machines can potentially damage film rolls. To request a hand-check, politely approach a TSA agent and make your request. It is recommended to have your film easily accessible, outside of its packaging, and stored in a clear ziplock bag or a "Do Not X-Ray" pouch. While hand-checks are not always guaranteed, TSA agents are often accommodating, especially if you are well-prepared. Keep in mind that checked baggage goes through more powerful scanners that can cause irreversible damage to film, so it's best to keep your film with your carry-on items.
International Variations:
The scanning and hand-check procedures may vary depending on the country you are travelling through. Internationally, you may be required to remove your camera gear from your bag more frequently and undergo additional swab tests for explosives or drugs. Be prepared for different security protocols and remain polite and cooperative with the security personnel.
TSA Precheck and Global Entry:
If you are a frequent traveller, consider signing up for TSA Precheck or Global Entry. These programs offer expedited security processes, allowing you to go through security without removing your camera gear, shoes, laptops, liquids, or light jackets. TSA Precheck costs $85 for a 5-year membership, while Global Entry costs $100 for the same period and includes additional expedited entry benefits.
By following these guidelines and staying informed about the latest security procedures, you can ensure that your camera gear passes through airport security smoothly and securely.
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International travel
When travelling internationally with camera gear, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth journey. Firstly, it is important to be aware of the ever-changing security screening procedures. These can vary across different countries and airports, so it is advisable to research the specific requirements of your destination airport. Some airports may require you to remove electronic devices such as laptops from their bags for separate scanning, so having these easily accessible is recommended.
Additionally, it is crucial to keep a close eye on your camera equipment at all times. When going through security checkpoints, you may be separated from your gear, increasing the risk of loss or theft. To minimise this risk, consider signing up for expedited security programs such as TSA Precheck or Global Entry, which allow you to keep your gear with you during screening. Keeping your camera gear in a designated camera cube or small camera bag that fits under the seat in front of you can also help prevent loss or damage.
Another consideration is the amount of gear you bring. It is advisable to pack light and only bring what you need. This reduces the risk of losing or damaging equipment and makes it easier to navigate security checks. If you must bring extra gear, ensure it is properly disconnected and padded, and insured, as airlines may not offer insurance for expensive items.
For international travel, it is also essential to research your destination's policies on travelling with professional equipment. Some countries may require documentation or proof of value for your gear, so it is important to be prepared and acquire any necessary paperwork or insurance before your trip.
Lastly, avoid carrying camera gear strapped to the outside of your bag, as this can attract unwanted attention. Instead, opt for a travel tripod that fits inside your bag, and consider investing in a Peak Design backpack with internal dividers and shelves to keep your gear organised and protected.
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Camera batteries
To prevent short circuits, it is important to protect the battery terminals. This can be done by using the original packaging or covering the terminals with tape. It is also recommended to place the batteries in separate bags for added protection. Some sources suggest draining the battery to 10-20% of its max charge to reduce the risk of short circuiting and fire.
In some countries, such as New Zealand, batteries must be separated from each other or have plastic caps on the ends. It is worth noting that regulations can vary by country and airline, so it is advisable to check the specific restrictions before travelling.
To keep camera equipment safe, it is recommended to use a hard case, such as the Pelican 1510, which fits within carry-on size restrictions. Keeping cameras and batteries in carry-on baggage also helps prevent theft, as items in checked baggage are more susceptible to being stolen. Additionally, if the camera bag exceeds the weight limit, it is less likely to be forced into the hold if it contains batteries.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you must remove your camera gear from your bag and place it in a separate tray to go through the scanner.
Keep your gear in sight at all times. TSA Precheck or Global Entry can help you avoid some security inspection processes.
Sign up on the TSA website, pay the \$85 fee for a 5-year membership, and undergo an in-person appointment for background checks and fingerprinting.
X-ray machines can damage film, so it's best to request a hand-check for your film and keep it in a "Do Not X-Ray" pouch.
