Packing for a Photo Trip.

You can pretty much guarantee that if I’m spending a night (or more) somewhere, I’m going to forget to bring something. 

Even though I am a big fan of making lists and spreadsheets, it’s so easy to miss certain items. Sometimes, I remember on the way to my destination. Other times, I don’t realize I’ve forgotten until I need the thing. I always make the best of things, but wouldn’t it be easier if we could just always remember everything we need to?
I wanted to make a quick little post about some of the essentials I always try to bring with me on a trip. Maybe it will help you not to forget something too!

Camera Gear

Let’s start with some of the most important things: camera equipment.

It’s really easy to overpack with this category. I try to bring just what I need. 

Cameras: Thinking about where I’m going and the types of photos I want to take helps me decide which cameras to bring. Since I shoot film, I might have one camera for black & white and one for color. I might want something square and something rectangular, and maybe a panoramic camera as well. If you’re shooting digital, less is more. Just bring one or two of your favorite camera bodies.

Lenses: I go pretty sparingly with these. Maybe one or two spare lenses. I’m more of a “one camera one lens” kind of photographer. A kit lens and a telephoto lens are usually good enough for me. 

Photo storage: Film or SD cards, more than you think you’ll need. 

Accessories: A camera bag, a notepad and pen, batteries, microfiber cloths, filters, and a tripod. I try to pack light these days.

On my recent trip, I was able to fit 6 cameras, a spare lens, film, and all the accessories I needed into these two smallish bags. The one on the right was my field bag, the one on the left was storage for the things I didn’t need that day.

Personal Items

I don’t think I have to remind you to pack your underoos and toothbrush, but there are a few non-camera-related items that I find helpful to bring with me when I travel.

Comfort: I am not a barefoot kind of girl. A good pair of slippers is a must for hotel rooms. I usually try to bring my own pillow as well. I find that I sleep much better that way.

Weather: I always pack rain gear, even if there is no rain on the forecast. Waterproof boots, jacket, and pants are good to have on hand. I also bring layers. New England weather can be pretty unpredictable. I don’t want to get cold or overheat. Unless it’s the dead of summer, I always bring tank tops, shirts, sweaters, and a jacket. That way, I’m always prepared.

Recreation: You can’t spend 24 hours a day taking photos (or can you?) I’m an avid writer, so I always make sure to have some journals with me to take notes in or write poetry. Books are also important for when I’m relaxing after a long day of shooting. Bring something fun!

From frosty sunrises to sunshiney afternoons, dressing in layers will keep you comfortable.

Tell me—what are your travel must-haves? What have I forgotten this time?