Checking in Photo gear with your airline.

[koozemani]

Mountainsmith Quantum Backpack for Cameras- Recycled - FREE SHIPPING at Altrec.com

Mountainsmith makes several backpack style camera bags that do not scream "CAMERA BAG". I can't recall which model I have, but it has a fold out lower pocket which holds my dslr and a couple of lenses. the main compartment should hold much of you other equipment.

 

[koozemani]

I think I have the spectrum.

 

[Searcaigh]

The only photographic equipment that goes in my check in is my spare strobe, long arms and back up alkaline batteries.

Everything else is carry on.

Lowe Pro backpack has all my cameras and lenses as well as my Mac plus other assorted cables n stuff

Pelican 1510 wheeled case has my housing, two ports, two strobes, short arms, cables, dive computer, log book plus some additional documents

On some trips I have another housing and port in the check in.

All my dive kit is checked in including my reg

 

[joewr]

Hi,
I have a Nikon D200 with a Subal housing and (yes, it still works) a Nikonos SB 104. I carry all that gear in my carry-on and never, never (let me repeat that for clarity, never) put them in my check-in luggage. I put the Nikon with lens in the housing (main o-ring out, of course, and all the handles, etc. removed from the housing). It all fits well and can go in the overhead compartment just fine. I also put my various Ultralight components and sync wires in the carry on, but use several ZipLock bags to keep it all organized.
My laptop goes in my small daypack and gets stored underneath the seat in front of me.

Back in the good old days I used to put my reg and dive computor in my carry-on, but that was when I had a Nikonos III or V, a much less space-filling group. However, now all my dive gear goes in my check-in dive gear suitcase. So far no evil criminal has taken any dive gear...

Bottom Line: do not trust the airlines with your camera gear...it is unique and precious. However, if some bozo steals your dive gear, you can always rent or buy replacements on an ad hoc basis during your trip.

joewr...no charge for advise and counsel...but we do charge for using this space...and it is available...