How do I bring my DSLR on an airplane?

Question

What I mean by my question is that I have an expensive new DSLR and am new to digital photography. I've never traveled with my camera equipment before. Is it a problem to take a digital SLR on an airplane? How does security react? I want to take my new camera, but don't want it to break. Any advice woudl be much appreciated.

Answer 1

it shouldnt be problem.....

get a well padded camera bag

remove battery

open the bag yourself for security

the scaning equipment wont harm the camera

Answer 2

I do many miles with 2-3 bodies with me as hand luggage.

Contrary to the above poster, don't remove the battery. Sometimes - not often, a TSA agent will ask to actuate the shutter to ensure the camera can.

With the current set of guidelines a DSLR may be taken on board. Xray  does not damage a modern DSLR sensor. It may be that you will find that your equipment may be swabbed for explosives, but that is an additional 3-4 mins on a regular bag search - and routine.

Do not put expensive equipment in your checked luggage. A short while back people were talking of a $50 5D sold by dodgy baggage handlers in Florida http://www.scottkelby.com/blog/2008/arch...

The only real concern might be the size and weight of the bags - to be compliant with airline regulations - not really of interest to a TSA agent.

The Flying with Fish (link in the above link) is another useful read for flying photographers too.

Answer 3

Like the guy above me said, get a heavily-padded bag. Carry the camera with you. Don't put it in checked luggage. When you get to the security checkpoint, ask a nearby TSA (airport security) agent if he or she would kindly hand-inspect the camera. TSA is usually willing to do this. If they make you put it in the x-ray machine, however, it will be fine. I've put a ton of stuff through the x-ray machine without issues. It shouldn't harm the camera.

Happy flying!