Last Updated on January 8, 2026 by Erin Donahue

Is there a way to safely transport your photography gear while traveling? Of course, there is. As a travel photographer and content creator, I do a lot of traveling. I’ve previously written about all the camera gear I bring with me, and how I pack two weeks’ essentials in a carry-on. Carrying photography equipment on the road can be daunting, and it’s never cute, unfortunately. However, with the right approach, you can protect your photography gear effectively while on the go.

To start off, my criteria for everything I choose have to do with being lightweight and budget-friendly. I’m not at a point in my career yet where I feel comfortable dropping $6K on a camera body or lens, but I can comfortably afford around the $1K price point.

1. Invest in the Right Camera Backpack

Your camera backpack is your gear’s first line of defense, so choose wisely. After cycling through countless options, I’ve learned to look for the following critical features. The ideal travel camera bag should pull double-duty: protecting your equipment while not screaming “expensive camera gear inside!” I personally use Brevite’s Jumper backpack because it looks like an everyday backpack but has customizable padding inside for my gear.

What makes it work for me:

• Water-resistant exterior
• Customizable padded dividers that can be rearranged as needed
• Inconspicuous design that doesn’t scream “camera bag”
• Space for both camera gear AND personal items (because who wants to carry two bags?)

2. Use a Protection System Within Your Bag

Having a good bag is just the starting point. How you pack your gear inside makes all the difference in protecting photography gear during transit. I’ve developed a system that has kept my equipment safe through bumpy rides and chaotic airport security lines.

• Use lens caps AND protective filters (UV filters act as sacrificial glass)
• Store memory cards in sturdy cases
• Use silica gel packets to combat humidity in tropical climates

3. Cover Yourself With Travel Insurance

If you’re traveling to unfamiliar places, travel insurance is a must. No matter how careful you are, it’s always a good idea to insure your gear in case of loss, theft, or damage. This is a fail-safe way to protect your camera gear while traveling. Look for insurance policies that cover your gear for the duration of your trip, and make sure to keep a record of your gear’s serial numbers and receipts in case you need to make a claim. There are a couple of ways to get travel insurance:

• Check if your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers your gear abroad
• Consider specialized photography insurance for professional equipment
• Travel credit cards as a baseline
• Travel Insurance Companies

I rotate between a few different travel insurance companies depending on the rates, but lately, I’ve been using Safety Wing’s Nomad Insurance when I travel internationally. The peace of mind is worth every penny, especially when shooting in remote or unfamiliar locations.

Protecting photography gear while traveling doesn’t require military-grade cases or sacrificing your travel style. With the right bag, a smart organization system, and proper insurance coverage, you can focus on capturing amazing shots instead of worrying about your equipment. What’s your biggest challenge when traveling with camera gear? Drop a comment!