With the summer almost upon us, many photographers will be packing up their kit ready to jet off on a photographic holiday.

While most countries are reasonably safe and their people friendly, it’s an unfortunate fact that travellers are often targeted by thieves, leaving costly photography equipment vulnerable.

Damage limitation

When travelling abroad with expensive photography equipment, there are a number of things you can do to ensure you reduce the risk of losing some or all of your kit. Read on for our top tips… 

  • Travel light – Only pack the bare essentials from your photography kit, which are suitable for the destination you are travelling to. This will not only help you keep within baggage limitations, it will also limit the amount or kit that can be lost, broken or stolen.
  • Hide camera – When your camera’s not in use keep it well hidden and out of the way.
  • Rigid case when travelling – If you’re going to spend a lot of the trip in transit, it’s a good idea to invest in a rigid camera case to minimise damage. Carry your equipment as hand luggage wherever possible.
  • Secure your kit – Solid luggage locks are great for travelling photographers, especially if you are on a long journey. While you may be alert, locks and ties ensure your equipment stays safe should you nod off to sleep.
  • Utilise hotel safe – If your accommodation offers safe hire then use it! A safe should keep equipment secure when you’re not using it.
  • Use camera strap – If you are shooting high or difficult angles, make sure you make use of the camera strap to avoid dropping it.
  • High-risk activities – If you’re planning on taking part in any hazardous pursuits whilst travelling then it’s probably best to leave valuable items at home. Chances of loss or damage massively increase when taking part in underwater, aerial or climbing activities, and they may not be covered by your insurance. 

If you are planning on going travelling this summer you should arrange adequate cover both for yourself and your photography equipment as soon as you book your trip.

When you take out equipment cover with Infocus Insurance, your policy automatically provides annual ‘worldwide’ cover, subject to normal policy terms and conditions.

In the event that you intend to travel to areas where the foreign office is advising against travelling please get in touch with a member of our team or visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for more information.