Arcticterntalk.org

New American Electronic Devices Ban includes cameras. Is it safe to check a camera into hold luggage? 

The latest in the series of dictates from Trump is that severe restrictions on electronic devices other than mobile phones will apply to carriers from 12 countries including Jordan and Saudi Arabia. This will however not apply to American carriers. 

This raises many questions including the value of doing this and how and why only 12 countries are affected. Putting this to one side how safe is it to transport cameras especially DSLR cameras and their lenses into hold luggage. Even if we assume they will not go missing in transit packing these cameras to ensure they do not get damaged is going to be complex if not impossible. Similarly computers. Are insurers even prepared to take the risk on this one? 

DSLR cameras are universal now and do not cost the earth . Entry level cameras being around £300. The cost of some though is significantly greater. The new 5D mark 4 is around £3500. Add on lenses and most peoples kit will be above £500 and often £1000. 

Cameras now are made to withstand heat, cold and some degree of being thrown around.  However if one is brave enough to take a look at the baggage handlers as they load and unload cases some of their actions are hardly gentle and can be akin to shot putting.  There can be no guarantee that cameras will withstand this. 

So what should folks do? If it were me I would not check in either camera or computer and for leisure simply do without. It will be interesting to see how insurance companies play this game.