Being a photographer and traveling overseas can be a nightmare. There is a lot to consider from which type of camera, lenses, and accessories too take. It becomes even more daunting when you add film to the mix. Here are a few gear choices I choose when I'm traveling overseas to insure my film and gear are protected.
The first thing I always take with me when I travel with film overseas is a x-ray bag. When going through security checkpoints the agents will always tell you that film is fine up to ASA 800 without protection. However, I don't want to take the risk of damaging the film and the shots. Also, I would recommend to always keep the film and x-ray bag in your carry on luggage. Just because the check-in x-ray machines are stronger and most x-ray bags are not designed to protect film from these kind of machines.
When traveling I don't have the luxury of carrying a dedicated camera bag with me. Mostly I take two bags with me when I fly: one check-in and one carry-on. So I have to chose a bag that can fit into a carry on luggage and hold a moderate amount of gear. Welcome! Crumpler's Haven (L), it fits in most backpacks and can hold your camera, a few lenses, and all the accessories you need. The padding and the material the Haven is made from provides a lot of protection for the gear inside. Also it has Velcro system which allows you to configure the compartments inside to your taste.
A few extra things I carry with me is a sharpie to make notes on the film canister about exposure, and a detachable neck strap. So that I can quickly put away my camera without needing to fumble around with the neck strap.
It is worth noting that you can make the existing gear you have to fit in most carry-on luggage. It just depends on how creative you are with them. I hope these gear choices will help you on your future trip.
Talk to you next time,
Alex
