Travelling with camera equipment

[vogelmann4]

My father and I are planning to go to Sebring in 2 weeks and have some questions about flying our cameras. He has a Nikon D70s and I have his old film slr. We were wondering is there any precautions we need to take to make our cameras travel? Do we need to protect the memory and film? I am sure we will carry the bags with us, as apposed to checking them. Any suggests would be appreciated. Thank you!

[Guidoh]

Hi Vogelmann,

I've carried my DSLR on several flights with me without any problems regarding X-Ray etc.

I wouldn't entrust camera equipment to the WWF baggage handlers who like to "slam-dunk" cases around the airport.

Just pack the most important/valuable gear into your hand luggage. If you're really concerned by X-Ray you could put CompactFlash cards in your hold luggage as they're cheaper and less likely to be damaged when bundled in with all your clothes. Perhaps keep one back in your hand luggage just in case your hold luggage does go 'astray' leaving you with no "camera-food" on your trip.

[Samoan Attorney]

Originally Posted by vogelmann4

My father and I are planning to go to Sebring in 2 weeks and have some questions about flying our cameras. He has a Nikon D70s and I have his old film slr. We were wondering is there any precautions we need to take to make our cameras travel? Do we need to protect the memory and film? I am sure we will carry the bags with us, as apposed to checking them. Any suggests would be appreciated. Thank you!

To avoid hassle with film at security why not purchase and process film while in the US?

There is a Wallmart on HWY 27 that will be able to accommodate your needs and from memory it is open 24/7. Also I think that this will be a much cheaper option. This of course assumes that you are shooting neg rather than slide. If it is slide then there are several processing houses in Miami.

The current security procedures for air travel hold no problems for digital media.

[thebear]

Originally Posted by Samoan Attorney

To avoid hassle with film at security why not purchase and process film while in the US? The current security procedures for air travel hold no problems for digital media.

The current X-ray machines at carry-on screening will not bother photo film unless it it ISO 1600 or higher. That being said, anyplace you buy film in the US is going to much more economical than in the UK. There is a "CVS" pharmacy on route 27 at the turnoff to the track (assuming one is heading S on 27). Their ISO 200 `CVS branded' film is usually $~7 for 4 x 24 exposures. They have an on site 1 hour lab (expect delays during race week) as well as several self service kiosks for digital printing.

You may find some useful information at THIS link.

PM if you need any other information.

hake:

[vogelmann4]

Thanks for the help guys. Despite the German name I am from Pennsylvania. I will be shooting film but will probably wait until I get home to develope it. We'll just carry the cameras on, sounds like we won't have a problem. Thanks guys.