The Art of packing for an overseas photography trip.

By Sara Kempner

Traveling overseas with camera gear always feels like a balancing act: you want to be prepared for every shooting scenario without hauling too much gear around. As I prepare for an upcoming overseas trip, I thought I would share my packing list with the group.

Of course, your packing list is always going to vary slightly depending on the destination and the type of travel you’ll be doing. This particular list is what I’ll be using on our trip to the Faroe Islands where we’ll be based in hotels and travelling by car and short hikes.

Camera Bag (which I use as my carry on)

1. Camera Body (and a Backup if Possible)-If you have the space, having a second camera body can save your trip should you lose or damage your primary one.

2. Lenses You’ll Actually Use-Don’t pack your entire arsenal. I generally keep it pretty simple with a 15-35mm, 24-70mm and a 70-200mm. Depending on the trip, I will throw in my 100-500mm as well. Again, lens choice will be based on your subject matter and travel needs but remember that whatever you bring, you also have to carry!

3. Memory Cards

4. Portable SSD or Hard Drive-I like to back up my files every night, even if I’m not editing them.

5. Laptop or Tablet- for backup, culling and editing

6. Chargers, Universal Adapters & Power Banks-Make sure to research the plug type for your destination. A universal travel adapter with USB-C slots is great. Label your chargers if possible! In a workshop setting often people have the same equipment and are sharing outlets.

7. Extra Batteries -Airlines are strict about lithium batteries. Remember to carry them in your carry-on luggage.

8. Travel-Friendly Tripod (goes in checked bag until arrival)

9. Lens Cleaning Kit-Microfiber cloths, a blower, and lens wipes.

10. Water proof camera bag cover

11. Filters

12. Small first aid kit

13. Headlamp

14. Drone/underwater housing/speciality gear, if using

15. Snacks. Always lots of snacks.

Beyond the Camera Bag:

1.Travel Insurance (for you and your gear)

2. Noise cancelling headphones

3. Copies of important documents stored in phone or physical copies (passports, insurance, driver’s license)

4. Reusable water bottle and electrolyte packets

5. Any medications/pain killers/vitamins

6. Pen

7. Passport and credit card/debit cards

8. Travel friendly, layered clothing. One “nicer” outfit for dinners etc.

9. Hat, waterproof jacket, sunglasses, rain pants

10. Comfy footwear for around the hotel, on the plane etc. Hiking boots if needed

11. Toiletries

12. Ear plugs/eye mask if you’re a sensitive sleeper

Sim or eSim for your phone for your country of travel

14. Snacks. Always lots of snacks.