When flying, is it better to leave my cameras in a suitcase,digital and film, or carry them on the plane?

Answer 1

For both film and digital cameras, you'll be safer carrying them on board with you. In most instances, the film cameras are the most susceptible to the x-ray machines, but why take chances?

At the same time, the x-ray machine at the security check-point can also damage film. The security personnel will tell you that it only affects high-speed film, but this is not true. The x-rays are cumulative, so the more times film goes through a machine, the more likely that it will be that it will be damaged.

I am a professional photographer who travels a great deal, and I have yet to convert to a high-priced digital camera. When I travel, I take my flm out of the little cardboard containters and place the rolls in a nylon mesh bag. I try to pass through the security check point when there are as few other travelers as possible, and politely but firmly request a hand inspection of the film only (the camera can go through the x-ray machine, as long as there is no film in it.).

I've had security people argue with me, and tell me it only affects the high-speed film, so I've added a few rolls of very high speed film to my bag. That way I can tell them that there is a potential problem with the high speed film. I've never used that film - it just travels with me.

I mentioned it once already, but BE POLITE. Be firm, but do not allow them to pass the film through the x-ray machine. You might get away with it once, twice or six times, but you will get bitten.

Finally, camera stores sell lead-lined bags to protect from x-rays. These work, but security will ALWAYS want to see inside. Consequently, it's just more convenient for me to ask for the hand-check. Also, the lead-lined bags are generally pretty small, so you may need several to carry enough film for a longer trip.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Never, never, never, NEVER put any kind of expensive thing in a suitcase. Always - and I repeat - ALWAYS take them onto the plane, and put the bag they're in at your feet, under the seat in front.

Yes, baggage handlers do go through luggage and take what they find. Or, you're suitcase could just disappear and you may never see it again.

Or ... you could open the suitcase up at your destination and find your camera (or whatever) smashed to smithereens.

Answer 3

I always take my phone, ipod and camera on the plane with me, as does my mum with her phone, we never risk it, I feel safer knowing my items are with me rather than not having a clue where they could be.

Answer 4

I agree with alienavia... also, if it gets stolen under the plane, you don´t have a way to prove it was there!!!

Answer 5

Carry them with you. It's allowed and preferable.