Camera Lenses: Pack Light Or Bring Them All?

Travelling with camera gear can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you're unsure about what to bring and how to pack it. The first question to ask yourself is: how much gear should I bring? If you're travelling light and want to avoid checked luggage fees, you'll need to fit everything into your overhead-bin-sized carry-on camera bag and your under-seat personal item. This means you might not be able to bring all your lenses, flashes and light stands.

If you're checking in luggage, it's recommended that you put light stands and tripods at the bottom of your suitcase, followed by padded items like lenses and flashes (inside their padded protection and with batteries removed), and finally your clothes and other soft items on top.

For carry-on luggage, it's a good idea to split your key pieces of gear between your overhead carry-on item and your under-seat personal item. This way, if you're forced to check in your carry-on bag, you still have your most important gear with you. It's also recommended that you detach your lens from your camera to avoid damage and pack it separately.

When it comes to the question of whether you should bring all your camera lenses with you, the answer depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some photographers like to travel light and only bring one lens, while others prefer to have a variety of lenses at their disposal. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of photography you plan to do.

Weight and bulk: consider how much you'll be walking and how much other equipment you'll be carrying

When deciding whether to carry your camera lenses with you, it's important to consider the weight and bulk of your equipment, especially if you'll be doing a lot of walking or carrying other gear. Here are some factors to think about:

• The weight of your lenses and camera body: Carrying multiple heavy lenses and a camera body can add significant weight to your kit. If you plan on walking long distances or hiking, consider the weight of your equipment and whether you can comfortably carry it for extended periods.
• The bulk of your lenses and camera body: In addition to weight, consider the physical size of your lenses and camera body. Bulky equipment can be cumbersome to carry and may not fit easily in your camera bag or backpack.
• The type of camera bag or backpack you have: Different types of camera bags and backpacks offer varying levels of comfort and weight distribution. For example, a backpack with padded straps and a waist belt can help distribute the weight more evenly across your body.
• The amount of other equipment you'll be carrying: Consider what else you'll need to bring with you, such as tripods, extra batteries, memory cards, filters, and so on. These items can quickly add weight and bulk to your kit, so plan accordingly.
• The terrain and duration of your walk: If you'll be hiking in challenging terrain or for extended periods, carefully consider the weight and bulk of your camera equipment. You may need to prioritise which lenses to bring and leave the rest behind.
• The importance of having quick access to your lenses: If you anticipate needing quick access to your lenses while walking, consider a camera bag or backpack that offers easy access without having to remove the entire bag from your body. This can help you capture fleeting moments without missing a beat.
• The impact of weight and bulk on your photography experience: Carrying heavy and bulky equipment can tire you out, potentially impacting your enjoyment of photography. Find a balance between having the gear you need and maintaining your comfort and mobility.
• The option of leaving some equipment behind: If the weight and bulk of your camera equipment are becoming a burden, consider leaving some lenses or other gear behind. You may find that having a more lightweight kit enhances your photography experience and allows you to focus more on your surroundings and creative vision.

Convenience: will you need to change lenses often?

Convenience is a key factor when deciding whether to bring multiple camera lenses with you. If you need to change lenses often, it may be more convenient to bring just one lens to avoid the hassle of switching. This is especially true if you are travelling or shooting in a fast-paced environment where you don't want to miss a shot. Carrying multiple lenses can also add significant weight and bulk to your gear setup, so bringing only one lens can make your kit more portable and easier to manage.

However, there are also situations where bringing multiple lenses can be advantageous. If you are unsure of the shooting conditions or want the flexibility to capture a variety of subjects, having multiple lenses can give you more creative options. For example, you might want an ultra-wide lens for landscapes, a telephoto lens for wildlife or sports, and a fast prime lens for low-light or shallow depth-of-field shots.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to bring multiple lenses depends on your specific needs and preferences. If convenience and portability are your top priorities, then sticking to one lens might be the best choice. But if you prioritise flexibility and creative options, then bringing multiple lenses could be worth the extra weight and hassle of switching lenses.

Protection: will your lenses be adequately protected in your bag?

When it comes to protecting your camera lenses in your bag, there are several factors to consider to ensure they remain safe and secure. Firstly, it is recommended to use a dedicated camera bag, as these are specifically designed to protect your equipment. Backpacks are ideal for transporting equipment during hikes, while shoulder bags offer better access to your gear. If you are travelling with multiple lenses, a lens case can provide additional protection and make it easier to switch between them.

When packing your camera bag, it is generally advised to store your camera body and lenses separately. This is because, if you drop your bag, the camera and lens together may be more fragile and prone to damage. It is also important to consider the layout of your bag, ensuring that your lenses are snug and secure, with enough padding to protect them from bumps and scratches.

To protect your lenses from the elements, consider using a hard or soft lens case, which can be attached to the outside of your bag or carried separately. These cases shield your lenses from humidity, dust, oils, and changing weather conditions, helping to extend their lifespan. Additionally, always put the lens cap on and store your lenses facing upwards to provide extra protection in case of any accidental drops.

When choosing a camera bag, consider the size, material, and convenience. The bag should be large enough to accommodate your lenses snugly without being too tight or too loose. Opt for materials that protect against humidity and bad weather, such as neoprene or nylon canvas. Finally, think about how you will use the bag and select one with features like shoulder straps, belt loops, or multiple compartments to suit your needs.

Accessibility: will you need to access your camera quickly?

When it comes to the accessibility of your camera, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to carry extra lenses with you. Here are some key points to help you make an informed decision:

• Ease of Access: If you need to access your camera quickly, it is advisable to keep the lens attached, especially if you are shooting in a dynamic environment like wildlife or sports photography. This eliminates the need for lens changes, reducing the risk of missing a shot.
• Type of Bag: The type of bag you use plays a significant role in lens accessibility. Shoulder bags offer better access, as you can easily grab a lens or camera without removing the bag. Backpacks, on the other hand, may require more time to access the equipment, especially if they are heavily packed. Sling bags that allow you to rotate the bag for quick access are also an option but are typically designed for carrying the camera with a lens attached.
• Number of Lenses: If you have multiple lenses, a dedicated camera bag with compartments for each lens can improve accessibility. This way, you can quickly switch between lenses without fumbling through your bag.
• Lens Size and Weight: Consider the size and weight of the lenses you plan to carry. Smaller, lightweight lenses are easier to carry around and access, especially if attached to the camera. Larger, heavier lenses may be more cumbersome and influence your decision to carry them separately or attached to the camera.
• Frequency of Lens Changes: If you frequently change lenses, keeping the camera body and lenses separate may be more efficient. This way, you can grab the lens you need directly without having to detach another lens first.
• Protection: While accessibility is important, it is also crucial to protect your lenses from potential damage. Consider using lens cases or padded camera cubes within your bag to safeguard your lenses from scratches, dust, and other environmental factors.
• Shooting Environment: The shooting environment can influence your decision. If you are in a dusty or windy area, it may be preferable to keep the lens attached to avoid exposing the sensor to dust. Conversely, if you are in a controlled environment with minimal risk of dust or damage, separating the lens and body may be more feasible.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, the decision to carry lenses separately or attached comes down to personal preference. Some photographers prefer the convenience of having the lens attached, while others opt for the flexibility of carrying lenses separately.

In summary, when considering accessibility, evaluate the shooting environment, the frequency of lens changes, the type of bag, and the protection required for your lenses. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision about whether to carry extra lenses with you and how best to ensure their accessibility.

Conditions: will you be shooting in dusty or damp conditions?

When shooting in dusty or damp conditions, it is important to take extra precautions to protect your camera equipment. Here are some tips to help you prepare for such conditions:

• Check the weather conditions: Before heading out, especially to an unknown location, check the weather forecast and typical conditions for the area during your visit. If rain or snow is likely, prepare accordingly with waterproof gear.
• Use waterproof bags: Invest in a waterproof photo backpack or shoulder bag to keep your equipment dry. You can also use a waterproof nylon cover that fits over your camera body and lens, or small trash bags with a hole punched in the closed end to slide over the lens and secured with a rubber band.
• Store equipment in a dry place: When not in use, store your equipment in a dry location, such as a waterproof photo backpack. Consider using moisture-removing mini-dehumidifying canisters, which are small, lightweight, and work continuously to absorb moisture from the air or delicate equipment.
• Keep equipment clean and dry: Carry a clean, dry cloth, such as pieces of an old cotton t-shirt, to wipe away excess moisture on exterior surfaces. You can also use lens cleaner and suitable cleaning supplies to keep your equipment in good condition.
• Handle water inside equipment with care: If water gets inside your camera or lens, remove the battery and memory card, dry them off, and place the equipment in a sealed plastic bag with a dehumidifying canister. Seek professional services from the manufacturer or a qualified repair person as soon as possible.

By following these tips, you can better prepare for shooting in dusty or damp conditions and minimise any potential damage to your camera equipment.

Frequently asked questions