Owais Crawford
Travelling with a camera can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when it comes to airport security. X-rays can damage film, and Instax cameras are no exception. However, some travellers have reported no issues with putting Instax film through security, while others have found their film damaged. So what's the best way to travel with Instax film? The general consensus is to carry it in your hand luggage and request a manual inspection, which most airports will accommodate.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| X-ray damage | X-rays can damage film, especially with repeated exposure. |
| Carry-on luggage | Recommended to keep film in carry-on luggage as it goes through weaker x-rays than checked luggage. |
| Hand inspection | Requesting a hand inspection for film is possible and recommended. |
| Film speed | Film with a speed of ISO 800 or higher is particularly susceptible to X-ray damage. |
| Ziploc bag | Keeping film in a clear Ziploc bag is suggested. |
| Sharpie | Carrying a Sharpie to label film speeds can be helpful. |
| Expired film | Including an expired roll of film in your bag can help protect your other film from unnecessary X-ray exposure. |
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What You'll Learn
X-ray damage to Instax film
While some sources claim that X-rays at airport security will not damage Instax film, others disagree. Some travellers have reported that their Instax film was damaged by the X-rays at airport security, while others have reported no issues. Those who have experienced issues have reported a green hue on their film after going through the new CT-style scanners.
To avoid potential damage to your Instax film, it is recommended to request a hand inspection of your film and any camera with film loaded. While some travellers have reported that their requests for a hand inspection were denied, others have reported that security officers were happy to help and seemed to appreciate the break in their routine. It is important to arrive early and be polite and patient when requesting a hand inspection.
If you choose to go through the X-ray, it is recommended to keep your Instax film in your carry-on luggage as the X-rays for checked baggage are stronger and more likely to damage the film. Additionally, do not leave unused film in your camera as photos taken later may come out washed out.
Overall, while there is conflicting evidence about the impact of X-rays on Instax film, taking precautions such as requesting a hand inspection or keeping your film in your carry-on baggage can help minimise the risk of damage.
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Requesting a hand inspection
X-ray scanners at airports can damage Instax film. To prevent this, you can request a hand inspection of your film at the security checkpoint. Most TSA agents are accommodating of such requests, especially in the US. However, experiences may vary across different countries and airports.
To request a hand inspection, inform the TSA agent that you are carrying photographic film and kindly ask for a manual inspection. It is recommended to have your film easily accessible in a clear ziplock bag or a "Do Not X-Ray" pouch. You can also carry an old, expired roll of film to increase the chances of getting a hand inspection.
Some travellers have reported that their request for a hand inspection was denied, and they were asked to send their Instax film through the usual security means. In such cases, it is advised to remove any unused film from your camera to avoid washed-out photos later. While some travellers have reported no issues with sending Instax film through X-ray machines, others have noticed colour changes and imperfections in their photos.
Overall, requesting a hand inspection is the best way to ensure the safety of your Instax film. It is your right to make this request, and most airports will accommodate it without any issues. By being prepared and organised, you can increase the likelihood of a smooth and efficient inspection process.
While hand inspections are generally available, it is worth noting that some travellers have reported instances of their requests being denied or experiencing pushback from airport security. In such cases, it is important to remain calm and polite. You may want to consider alternative options, such as using film mailers to send your exposed rolls directly to a lab for developing, bypassing the need for hand inspections or X-ray scans altogether.
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Carry-on vs checked baggage
When travelling with Instax film, it is recommended to keep it in your carry-on luggage. Carry-on bags are those that you bring with you on the airplane and are placed in the overhead compartment or under the chair in front of you. This way, you can access your essentials throughout the flight. Carry-on luggage also allows you to walk off the plane with your bag and avoid waiting at baggage claim.
However, the downside of carry-on luggage is that you may need to fight for overhead bin space, and there are size and weight restrictions to consider. If your carry-on bag exceeds the size or weight limit, you may be required to check it at the gate, incurring additional fees. Additionally, carrying on all your luggage may be cumbersome, especially when traversing the airport or visiting the restroom.
On the other hand, checked baggage is relinquished to the airline at the check-in counter. It is then weighed, labelled, screened, and transported to the plane's cargo hold, inaccessible to passengers during the flight. Checked baggage can be advantageous if you want to travel lightly through the airport, as you won't have to worry about bin space or carrying your bags while navigating the airport.
However, one of the main drawbacks of checked baggage is the potential for lost or delayed luggage, which can be a stressful experience. Additionally, checked baggage usually incurs additional fees, and you will need to wait at baggage claim upon arrival to retrieve your bags.
When deciding between carry-on and checked baggage for your Instax film, consider the type of trip, baggage fees, wait times, and your preference for convenience and accessibility. If you choose to carry your Instax film on board, you can request a manual inspection to avoid potential damage from X-rays.
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Using up film before returning home
If you're travelling with an Instax camera and film, it's a good idea to use up your film before returning home. This way, you won't have to worry about potential damage from X-ray inspection at the airport. Plus, capturing memories during your trip will ensure you have unique souvenirs to look back on.
- Plan to take photos throughout your trip, so you have a variety of images to look back on. Include landscapes, local attractions, people you meet, and your travel companions.
- Consider using your film for creative purposes, such as crafting or upcycling projects. For example, you can use the film cartridges as cute photo frames for your favourite Instax prints.
- Be mindful of the film's expiry date and storage conditions. Keep the film in its original packaging until you're ready to use it, and store it in a cool, dry, and dark place. Extreme temperatures and direct sunlight can affect the film's quality.
- Ensure proper handling of the photos after they develop. Avoid shaking the prints, as it can damage them. Allow the images to develop fully on a flat surface, and then keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- If you have unused film in your camera when passing through airport security, you can request a manual inspection to avoid potential damage from X-rays. However, some airports may not accommodate such requests.
By following these suggestions, you can make the most of your Instax film during your trip and return home with unique memories captured on film.
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The effects of repeated X-ray exposure
While it is possible to take Instax film through airport security, there are a few things to keep in mind regarding the effects of repeated X-ray exposure.
Firstly, it is important to understand that X-rays can damage film, especially certain film speeds such as ISO 800 or higher, which are more susceptible to X-ray damage. While a single scan or two is unlikely to affect the film significantly, repeated X-ray exposure will have a cumulative effect and is not recommended. The impact of X-ray exposure increases with the number of scans, and the intensity of the X-rays.
To minimise the effects of repeated X-ray exposure, it is advisable to carry your Instax film in your carry-on luggage as it is subjected to weaker X-rays compared to checked bags. Additionally, you can request a manual or hand inspection of your film and camera equipment. However, this may not always be granted, and you may need to be patient and polite in your request.
Some travellers have reported that their Instax film has been unaffected by X-ray exposure, while others have noticed a darker tint or a greenish hue on their films after going through airport security. It is worth noting that leaving unused film in your camera may cause subsequent photos to appear washed out.
To summarise, while it is possible to travel with Instax film, repeated X-ray exposure may impact the quality of your films over time. To reduce the potential damage, carry your film in your hand luggage and request a manual inspection whenever possible.
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Frequently asked questions
It is generally recommended to carry undeveloped Instax film in your carry-on luggage and ask for a hand inspection to avoid potential damage from X-ray scanners. While some travellers have reported no issues after sending their film through X-ray machines, others have experienced damage.
To request a hand inspection, approach the security staff and politely ask for a manual inspection of your Instax film and camera. It may be helpful to arrive at the airport early and carry an old, expired roll of film to increase the chances of a hand check.
Film speeds of ISO 800 or higher are particularly vulnerable to damage from typical airport X-ray scanners. Films with lower ISO values, such as Fujifilm Instax Mini and Instax Wide (ISO 800 and below), are less likely to be significantly affected by a single scan.
