2004Vests forum
Transporting a camera harness by air as checked baggage
22 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- A camera harness should be checked as baggage rather than carried onboard, and can be transported in its original soft bag or a protective case.
- Removing the carbon arm and packing it separately in a leather arm bag makes the harness more compact and protects the arm's controls during air travel.
- Hard cases like the Pelican 1620 or Rubbermaid Action Packer provide better protection for valuable harnesses during baggage handling than soft bags alone.
- A Pelican 1620 case with wheels and handle is suitable for harnesses up to approximately 35 inches in hip width, with room for additional clothing and gear.
- A Rubbermaid Action Packer case is a lighter and more affordable alternative to Pelican cases, weighing around 30 pounds total when packed with a harness and soft items.
- Airlines may handle checked baggage roughly, including stacking heavy luggage on top, which can damage an unprotected harness.
Depends on
- The advice reflects practices from 2004 and may not match current airline policies.
- Specific airline policies vary; Emirates' policies were not confirmed in the discussion.
- The Pelican 1620 fit was based on one user's harness dimensions and may not suit all models or body sizes.
- Whether a harness can fit in airline carry-on varies by airline and specific dimensions of the harness.