Bringing Cameras on Planes: Everything You Need to Know

Have you ever thought of bringing your camera on planes when you plan to go on a trip? Cameras are one of the coolest gadgets. They become even more essential when it comes to traveling to different places so that we can capture memories and precious moments.

Now you might already know that the TSA comes with rules on what items can and can’t go on planes. That’s why, before packing your luggage or bag, you must know whether cameras are allowed on planes or not, according to the TSA.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at the TSA guidelines on bringing cameras on planes, how to take cameras through security checkpoints, how to safely pack your camera in your luggage, where to pack it, in your carry-on or checked luggage, and much more.

So stay with us till the end of this guide to explore everything about bringing cameras on planes.

Uncovering TSA rules for bringing cameras on planes?

The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) clearly states on their official website, that you’re allowed to bring your camera with both carry-on and checked luggage. So no matter what type of camera you’re traveling with, you can bring it with you on planes, even with batteries.

However, TSA has given cameras a green signal, but you must also check the guidelines of the airlines you’re flying with. Usually, airlines follow the same lines as the TSA, but sometimes airlines are stricter than the TSA, so make sure to check it out.

Another thing you should keep in mind is that the final decision about whether you can bring an item, including cameras, with you or not depends entirely on the TSA officers.

You can take a look at this screenshot from TSA’s official website talking about cameras.

TSA guideline on bringing camera on planes — TSA Official Notice

Also read: Guide to 3-1-1 TSA Rule: Everything You Need to Know

Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage: Where Should You Pack Your Camera?

Now that you know that you can bring your camera in both carry-on and checked luggage, what is even more important is where you should actually carry it to keep your camera safe and secure.

The answer is to carry-on luggage. This is because a camera is a sensitive, fragile, and expensive item that is less likely to bear the rough handling of checked luggage by baggage handlers, which ultimately will result in breaking the camera.

You might be wondering why carry-on luggage. Carry-on luggage is the safest option because it stays with you all the time, you’ve got total control over it, and you decide where and how you should keep it so that nothing gets damaged.

This is not only with cameras but with almost every electronic item, like laptops and tablets.

Do you need to take out your camera at security checkpoints?

Yes, when passing through security check, you’ll have to take out your camera from your bag so make sure you pack it in such a way that it can easily be taken out, like packing it somewhere in the upper section of the luggage or bag.

Any electronic device that is larger than a cell phone will be asked to be taken out, This may include things like laptops, tablets, cameras, e-readers, etc. You can keep your accessories inside unless TSA asks you to take them out as well.

Also read: Can You Bring Nail Clippers on a Plane?

Tips to safely pack your camera in carry-on luggage?

Turn your camera off: First of all, turn your camera off and then tape the power toggle in the OFF position so that it doesn’t accidentally turn on.
Remove the camera lens: Now the next step is to remove the camera lens to avoid any accidental damage.
Get a hardshell camera case: Pack your camera in a hardshell case because it’s specially designed for your camera and can keep it safe from any external impact.
Keep your camera ready to take out: Keep your camera somewhere in the upper portion of your carry-on so that you can take it out quickly and conveniently at the time of a security check.
Keep batteries in your carry-on luggage: Avoid keeping your batteries in your checked luggage; if you do so, your batteries will be confiscated and you won’t be able to get them back. So make sure to keep it in your carry-on luggage.

Is a camera bag considered carry-on luggage?

The answer is simple: a large camera bag that is bigger than the underseat luggage size but fits in the overhead compartment is considered carry-on luggage. That means if your camera bag doesn’t fit under the seat in front of you but is under the dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, it’ll be considered carry-on luggage.

On the other hand, if your camera bag falls within the airline’s guidelines and fits under the seat in front of you, it’ll be considered a personal item.

Also read: What size deodorant can you take on a plane?

Can you put your camera in your checked luggage?

The answer is yes. You can put your camera in your checked luggage but we never recommend it, not only for cameras but also for other electronic items as well.

This is because checked baggage is handled by baggage handlers; they do it carelessly and without much thought. They’re literally thrown away, which can cause damage to your electronic devices. It has also been seen that precious things are stolen from checked luggage, so also consider that.

If something happens with your precious camera, you won’t be covered, as most airlines don’t take responsibility for any kind of damage or lost item.

Just take a look at what Delta Airlines says on its official website:

Unfortunately, we cannot assume liability for jewelry, cash, camera equipment or other similar valuable items contained in checked or unchecked baggage on domestic flights.
Delta Airlines

But if you still want to put your camera in your checked luggage, make sure to pack it properly with proper care so that you can avoid any damage to your camera.

FAQs about Bringing Cameras on Planes

Can I bring a camera battery on a plane?

Yes, you can bring camera batteries on planes but you must not bring them in your checked luggage. If you do so, they can be confiscated, and you won’t be able to get them back.

Should I keep my camera lenses separately?

It depends on you; it’s not a restriction from TSA or airlines; it’s your choice. But it’s recommended to keep it separately in a padded compartment so that it’s highly protected and stays safe throughout the trip.

How many cameras can I bring on a plane?

Generally there are no limitations on bringing cameras on planes; TSA or airlines have not mentioned any specific rules on their official websites, but cameras in higher quantities might cause problems so that you can bring in a reasonable number.

Can I bring a DSLR camera on the plane?

Yes, you can bring a DSLR camera with you on planes, both in carry-on and checked luggage. TSA and most airlines don’t have any issues with it.

The closing thoughts on bringing cameras on planes?

You can bring your camera in your carry-on and checked luggage; TSA and almost all airlines allow bringing cameras with you on planes.

But we don’t recommend you pack your camera or any other electronic items in your checked luggage, because there are high chance that they will get damaged if you don’t pack them extra consciously; they might also be stolen. So make sure to keep it in your carry-on luggage so that you can take care of it properly.

Another thing is to make sure to keep your camera in such a way that it’s easily accessible so that it can be easily and quickly taken out at the time of the screening process.

We hope this guide helped you get an answer to your question. If you’ve got any questions, let us know in the comment section below. We’d be more than happy to assist you.