Fun with airport security...last week I flew from Minneapolis to Sioux Falls , SD and back in a CRJ-200. Not much room in the overhead bin and the security peeps coming from Sioux Falls to MSP were no fun either. I got the pat down search from an amateur (I felt violated), and imagine my delight when I see someone taking my Fujinon Cabrio 20-120 out of the case without my supervision while I got frisked. At that point, I asked the person unloading my gear into trays to wait until I could supervise because the gear was not only delicate, but expensive. Apparently, anything larger than a cell phone now has to come out of the bag into the trays....all this to wonder out loud....will TSA pre-check make this a better experience for me??? I was pretty steamed by the end of it all, but managed to keep my cool enough to not make bigger troubles for myself. I'd love to know the experiences of others in this realm.
FS7: Flying with gear
- Thread starter Vintegreo
- Start date
Run&Gun
Veteran
Fortunately it has been years since I've had to fly commercially with one of my cameras(I just flew a few weeks ago on a private jet with a race team for a shoot, so no hassles from TSA or worrying about where to put it on the plane. FYI, it sat in the seat right next to me ; ) ). But for many years, I had to get on a plane twice a week for a large part of the year, with my VariCam. By far and large, TSA was usually fine. Occasionally they'd give me a hassle, but the bigger problem was always the gate agents with the airline who would constantly say that the camera bag was too big for the overhead bins. They rarely said anything to anyone with a huge roll-aboard full of clothes, but the guy with a $75K camera on the other hand... And even when you told them, 95% of the gate agents or flight attendants still didn't care. I started shipping my support gear ahead and it made life a lot easier and eventually I bought a second camera just to live on the road so I wouldn't have to fly with it and life got a LOT less stressful and was worth every penny. But at that time, I had a deal that made it worth it. Nowadays, it'd be almost impossible to justify buying a separate camera just to travel ahead of you.
deltoidjohn
Veteran
These days the only camera gear I put in my carry on is batteries.
Everything else is checked in and insured. I look up local rental places to use in an emergency, and clients are always given the option to rent local gear for me ahead of time to prevent possible delays.
I know a lot of people have the mentality that carrying the camera on means if their checked baggage gets lost they can still start shooting, but personally If any of the stuff I check in (lens case, tripod, lights, etc) get lost then I'd probably have to delay shooting anyway, regardless of whether I still had my camera body with me. And you're never going to be able to avoid checking in at least a few things.
Since I made this change traveling has become much less stressful.
Everything else is checked in and insured. I look up local rental places to use in an emergency, and clients are always given the option to rent local gear for me ahead of time to prevent possible delays.
I know a lot of people have the mentality that carrying the camera on means if their checked baggage gets lost they can still start shooting, but personally If any of the stuff I check in (lens case, tripod, lights, etc) get lost then I'd probably have to delay shooting anyway, regardless of whether I still had my camera body with me. And you're never going to be able to avoid checking in at least a few things.
Since I made this change traveling has become much less stressful.
Matt Gottshalk
Resident Preditor
While mirrorless cameras are not always the best choice, I love being able to fly with my Gh5 with little hassle.
Two different parts to the response - TSA & Planes.
If you carry on lots of gear, TSA will always be a pain. It's very dependent on the specific personnel and airport. TSA Pre-check isn't really about making the bag search easier - it's mainly a way to buy into shorter lines at security checkpoint. If you fly a lot it may be worth it for the time factor. But I'm always flying with people who aren't TSA/Pre and we tend to stick together in airports (more eyes to watch the gear), so we'll usually just end up in the regular lines. However, if your local airport is known for huge security lines, TSA/Pre can be a plus.
I try to pack light for air travel - and every lens travels in a soft neoprene protective bag (and of course it's inside another case).
Research ahead of time what planes you'll be flying on. If you'll be on the 2&2 or 2&1 seat expressjets you pretty much know that you'll need to gate-check standard 'carry on size' cases. I try to use cases/bags that are sleeker or look smaller - my favorite was an older Kata that featured a small roller-cart which slipped into (or out of) it before going in the overhead. But on small planes, when it's too large, I end up gate checking the camera bag but taking out the camera body and lenses. Lenses fit in my backpack in a separate compartment from the computer. Camera has a handle so I carry it by hand (and put it under the seat in front of me - wrapping it in a foam/fabric for protection once on plane. Wear cargo pants with big pockets for your batteries (which aren't allowed to be gate checked.) On one international trip a while back (where I was blindsided by the producer adding a connecting flight flying solo on a tiny plane) I actually carried on both an F3 and an EX1 after having to gate check the carry-on roller. I got a lot of smiles from both other passengers and from flight crew - no hassles.
But most importantly, whatever you can rent locally - particularly heavy, inexpensive things - take advantage of. Light stands, grip gear, lights, support equip. The more you travel with the harder it is on you. And the more your excess baggage costs will be!
Last thought - some airlines have relatively inexpensive costs to upgrade to first class. On of the producers I work with does it whenever possible. Remember, when in first class the flicht attendants are there to help you - in coach they're there to keep you ion line.
If you carry on lots of gear, TSA will always be a pain. It's very dependent on the specific personnel and airport. TSA Pre-check isn't really about making the bag search easier - it's mainly a way to buy into shorter lines at security checkpoint. If you fly a lot it may be worth it for the time factor. But I'm always flying with people who aren't TSA/Pre and we tend to stick together in airports (more eyes to watch the gear), so we'll usually just end up in the regular lines. However, if your local airport is known for huge security lines, TSA/Pre can be a plus.
I try to pack light for air travel - and every lens travels in a soft neoprene protective bag (and of course it's inside another case).
Research ahead of time what planes you'll be flying on. If you'll be on the 2&2 or 2&1 seat expressjets you pretty much know that you'll need to gate-check standard 'carry on size' cases. I try to use cases/bags that are sleeker or look smaller - my favorite was an older Kata that featured a small roller-cart which slipped into (or out of) it before going in the overhead. But on small planes, when it's too large, I end up gate checking the camera bag but taking out the camera body and lenses. Lenses fit in my backpack in a separate compartment from the computer. Camera has a handle so I carry it by hand (and put it under the seat in front of me - wrapping it in a foam/fabric for protection once on plane. Wear cargo pants with big pockets for your batteries (which aren't allowed to be gate checked.) On one international trip a while back (where I was blindsided by the producer adding a connecting flight flying solo on a tiny plane) I actually carried on both an F3 and an EX1 after having to gate check the carry-on roller. I got a lot of smiles from both other passengers and from flight crew - no hassles.
But most importantly, whatever you can rent locally - particularly heavy, inexpensive things - take advantage of. Light stands, grip gear, lights, support equip. The more you travel with the harder it is on you. And the more your excess baggage costs will be!
Last thought - some airlines have relatively inexpensive costs to upgrade to first class. On of the producers I work with does it whenever possible. Remember, when in first class the flicht attendants are there to help you - in coach they're there to keep you ion line.
KarlSutton
Well-known member
I've travelled all over the US with a Tenba Roadie II (the roll around version) I can pack all I need in there and it fits in the 737 overhead just fine.
I have TSA Pre & have only had the camera bag inspected one time out of 40+ flights. I pack a substantial amount of gear in a hard case golf bag & have never had an issue with that.
I have TSA Pre & have only had the camera bag inspected one time out of 40+ flights. I pack a substantial amount of gear in a hard case golf bag & have never had an issue with that.
Run&Gun
Veteran
Yep. The airline I fly on is like that. The difference in first and coach is usually only $100-$150. Whenever I book my own travel, I almost always book first class. And if you're flying with a lot of stuff, that more than makes up for the extra baggage and weight allowance that usually comes with first class(75lb vs. 50lb weight limit per bag and first usually allows 2-3 checked bags. Coach is usually 0 checked bags for free, unless you have preferred status, but then it's still usually just 1 or 2).
Also, check into the "media rate" for the airline you're flying with and see if they have one. That's not gonna save you any security hassles, but can save money with checked bags.
DavidChia
Well-known member
I have a normal looking approve cabin size trolley and inside I have soft paddings made. I can put most of my camera,lenses and batteries inside. I have often stripped my HPX3100 and placed the body, lens, view finder , batteries to fit into the luggage. It is the same every where in the world at airport gates and security points. Along as the its approval size, they usually don't care and won't give you too much trouble. The lesser it looks suspicious or expensive the less you get into trouble. I used to have a pelican case. Its good, but the weight by itself is usually over the allowed limit on the cabin, and when they see a pelican case they start asking questions and telling you no! what is inside? it is over weight! please open it!
Liam Hall
Veteran
Air travel in the US is awful. Horrific. I have a better experience in third world countries than the US. Much better. I could write a book on everything that's wrong with US air travel. This is what happens when an Industry engages in a race to the bottom (camera industry, take note).
My advice, based on over a thousand flights with kit:
Be cool. Be polite. Be helpful. Be nice. Always, be nice. And, be calm.
Expect the worst experience possible and your trip through airport and air will always be above expectation.
Know your rights. But use that knowledge wisely. No one likes a smart arse.
Pack smart. If the limit is 7KG carry-on then have a plan if they take your precious camera off you and put it in the hold. Whining about it getting smashed won't matter; it's part of your job to make sure your equipment is well packed so when you arrive at your location you are ready to shoot.
If you travel regularly in the US, at some point, the TSA will hold back one of your bags for extra security, so always have a back up plan. I could go on, but I have a flight to catch...
My advice, based on over a thousand flights with kit:
Be cool. Be polite. Be helpful. Be nice. Always, be nice. And, be calm.
Expect the worst experience possible and your trip through airport and air will always be above expectation.
Know your rights. But use that knowledge wisely. No one likes a smart arse.
Pack smart. If the limit is 7KG carry-on then have a plan if they take your precious camera off you and put it in the hold. Whining about it getting smashed won't matter; it's part of your job to make sure your equipment is well packed so when you arrive at your location you are ready to shoot.
If you travel regularly in the US, at some point, the TSA will hold back one of your bags for extra security, so always have a back up plan. I could go on, but I have a flight to catch...
Us is bad but my worst experience was Heathrow.. told at check in my camera couldn't go in the over head.. Jumbo jet.. told them it could and I always did, and had done on the incoming flight same airline, same type of plane ..BA.. was told point blank that cameras NEVER go in the over heads.. !! I was still nice and said well actually as a professional cameraman that its simply not true.. they wouldn't budge.. insisted I buy a ticket/seat for the camera.. which I knew wouldn't work out.. got on plane put bag in seat.. as I thought told it couldn't be there as its against safety rules.. I agreed and told them my story.. they told me to put it in the over head locker !! and apologized .. but no re fund ever got to me.. awful airline.. never have flown on them again.. its 100% down to the person on the desk.. at some stage your luck will run out..
Run&Gun
Veteran
US airlines and airports are becoming worse than taking a bus. Granted I haven't been on a bus for travel in over 35 years, but I don't think they make you check yourself in and tag your own bags at the bus station like you do with a lot of US airlines. Even flying first class...
Donny, that's why you always pay for everything with a credit card. I would have called my CC company and contested the charges. Most of the time, they will stand behind you. Especially AmEx. I know merchants that won't accept AmEX, because they will take the charge back from the business on only the customers word, even when there wasn't a problem.
Donny, that's why you always pay for everything with a credit card. I would have called my CC company and contested the charges. Most of the time, they will stand behind you. Especially AmEx. I know merchants that won't accept AmEX, because they will take the charge back from the business on only the customers word, even when there wasn't a problem.
Note the wording: "approve cabin size trolley"
The issue that the OP had is one that seems to keep getting worse in the US - the fact that an increasing number of shorter-hop domestic flights are using the much smaller 'regional' jets - even for flights over an hour. The CRJ200 he mentions will not fit an "approved luggage size" anything! CRJ200's Maximum dimensions for overhead compartment are 18Lx14Wx7D. That's as opposed to the "standard approved cabin size" of 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches. Maybe you can find a workaround for the 4" of length, but that 2" of reduced height is a deal breaker! And remember, the CRJ200 has 2+2 seating and isn't the smallest plane in the air!
The point being - do your research and know ahead of time what will or will not fit! And if you bag won't fit, know your backup plan before you leave for the airport.
Plus let's not forget the 'Shoot all day / rush to the airport with just barely enough time to make it onto the plane before the doors close / and the plane is already full and every cubic inch of overhead space has already been filled' scenario.
Also, in case you haven't noticed, some major US airlines now feature a 'superdiscount' fare - the terms of which are that you can't get a seat assignment until you get to the airport, and that you are restricted to the Absolute Last group to board the plane. It saves the producer a few bucks - but good luck getting your bag into the overhead!
Run&Gun
Veteran
I've been on some regional jets with overheads so small, I almost could not get my camera(VariCam, no bag, just the camera) into the bin and then it was a struggle getting it back out.
Traveling with gear that must be carried onto the plane and not having an assigned seat or being in one of the last boarding groups is unacceptable and this must be made clear if the client is the one booking the flights. You should lay out a set of rules for clients when flying. I actually prefer booking my own flights and billing it back, now.
Makes a ton of sense. There will come a day when buying a seat for your camera is as common as a musician buying a seat for their cello or violin.
Liam Hall
Veteran
Yeah, Heathrow that little bit of Hell west of London. I hate the place. But it's still better than LAX, Atlanta, O'Hare...
There are always idiots who don't know their own rules. I have countless stories to illustrate that. And yes, I agree, one day your luck will run out. That's why you have to plan for the worst, as much as you can at least. Sometimes you have to roll the dice...
Yes Heathrow itself is not so bad.. but BA !! it was pure Kafka.. I had two idiots assuring me that pro video cameras are never.. 100% never allowed in the over heads..even though I had arrived in the UK on the same plane ,same airline with exactly doing that.. it was just like being in a bad dream.. I must have paid by CC.. damn.. didnt even think to cancel the payment.. I had been assured by the bursa on the plane itself that I would get a reimbursement.. it went on for ages but never got it back.. I usually request at the gate that I can get on with business due to needing space for my camera.. 8 times out 10 they are fine to do it..
Yes agree.. prepare for hassle and if it doesn't happen you can smile and have a latte.. and the world is a better place
Yes agree.. prepare for hassle and if it doesn't happen you can smile and have a latte.. and the world is a better place
deltoidjohn
Veteran
I'd be very careful with that tactic - asking for any sort of special treatment can be a one way ticket to trouble-town.
Wes.
Well-known member
I can definitely attest that TSA pre check and flying with gear should go hand in hand. It's such a significant difference, absolutely worth it. One of those "why did I wait so long" type feelings after the first time I used the pre check status for a travel shoot.
I've never had airport security open my bag and be rude about gear. In fact, I've had plenty of experiences where they ask me to open the bag up and take the camera/gear out for them. I'm always over the top nice and completely understanding that gear looks crazy on x-ray machines though. After one bad experience and rushing through security with gear, I'dhappily arrive plenty early and smile and stroll through security line or no line (obviously this is pre- me having pre-check, now it's just a breeze).
Safe travels.
-Wes
I've never had airport security open my bag and be rude about gear. In fact, I've had plenty of experiences where they ask me to open the bag up and take the camera/gear out for them. I'm always over the top nice and completely understanding that gear looks crazy on x-ray machines though. After one bad experience and rushing through security with gear, I'dhappily arrive plenty early and smile and stroll through security line or no line (obviously this is pre- me having pre-check, now it's just a breeze).
Safe travels.
-Wes
Why ?.. it works nearly every time.. I ask if I can board with or just after business because of my camera etc.. and they nearly always say yes.. very few times Im told politely its not allowed ..Ive done this probably a few hundred times now.. if they say no ..I say ok..sure no problem.. its never been the road to any sort of trouble.. have you had some problem doing this..or similar. ?
Having had a string pf problems on both European medium haul flights and long hauls from Europe to the States and Far East, I once tried to get permission in writing to allow my camera in the overhead locker. Back then I had a Canon C300 so medium size and medium heavy. Over the phone Air France, KLM and Lufthansa all said no problem at all, just ask at check-in. Yeah, right! I politely pointed out that I was asking because I had in fact found it a major problem and so would they be kind enough to just confirm that to me in a quick email? Never heard a thing from any of them despite a few follow-ups. Moral: take the horror stories to heart and be prepared. These days I strip my FS7 to the bare body and bubble wrap it in an ordinary travel bag that is just under max size. It gets checked at security, which is how it should be, but patience and smiles usually get me through.