Camera Safety - Travel Tips

Make a checklist

Before you leave for the airport make a list of all the equipment you're taking with you, writing down the serial and model numbers too. It'll also help if you take photos of your equipment for your records.

Insurance

Make sure you have the right insurance just in case your equipment's stolen or damaged. If you're unsure if your equipment's covered, read your policy or ring your insurer.

Don't take trips on your own

If you're planning a few day trips don't go alone. That way, when you're framing up your shot, your 'buddy' can watch your camera bag and any other equipment you have.

Take a map

If you're going walking but not as part of a tour group, make sure you pack a map so if you get lost, you can find your way back. We know this isn't specifically camera related but it's important!

What's your bag look like?

Don't use a bag that screams: "Look! I have a very expensive camera in here." Manfrotto's STILE collection (Italian for style) is designed to look more fashionable and as a result, they look more like normal rucksacks rather than the stereotypical photographer's bag that people instantly know will have gear in them.

Don't put your bag down

Even when you're taking a photo don't leave your bag on the floor and never leave it unattended. When you're in busy locations such as markets, carry the bag on your front as if it's on your back, there is the chance that someone could access it without you knowing. You may think you look a little silly but that's better than finding all of your gear's gone.

Carry spare memory cards

Don't just take one memory card with you as if it's stolen or lost that's it. Always carry a spare in your bag and keep one locked away in your hotel room too, just in case.

Put your equipment in a net

You can buy safety nets which you place your equipment in and then you fasten the net to a solid object that's fastened down.

Use a safe

Most rooms have safes that will fit memory cards, chargers, compacts or a small DSLR body in. If
you have lots of kit or there's no safe in your room, ask at reception to see if they have them available at the desk. Just make sure you make a note of everything you hand over and take images so you have proof if anything goes missing.

Find the tripod to suit your needs at www.manfrotto.co.uk.

See what competitions and other exciting content Manfrotto have on their website:

Manfrotto Imagine More Photo Contest - Win a trip to Venice

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