Plan for worst case scenario? or ...?

[reagan]

Plan for worst case scenario? or throw caution to the wind?

I have a trip coming up in a few weeks to MI. Not much time will be available for photoging, but nevertheless, I plan on slipping one body/lens and maybe an extra lens into the bag.

The question is, which camera/which bag? Currently, carry-ons are being permitted again of course, thank God. I NEVER check bags, always carry-on only.

However, in light of recent events, theoretically, one could get to one's destination with just the usual carry on, and in the blink of an eye, for safety reasons, rules can change overnight and one might be required to check the same carry-on bag for his return flight. 😱 Which would mean, whatever gear I take along will no longer be protected in my sweaty little hands, but thrown into the clutches of airport baggage handlers (who are liable to open and grope any bag desired.) 😱 😱 who may or may not tooooossssss it into the cargo hold of the plane (or worse, some other plane.)

So do I take along a not-so-valued camera "from the pile" that I don't mind being checked, groped and tossed, or do I take a favorite shooter and just hope all works out so I can keep it with me at all times?

Whatcha think?

 

[ywenz]

I'm driving to L.A. next month instead of flying simply because I don't want my cameras to go thru the baggage handlers..

I do the Chi->Det drive twice a month and I suggest you do the short drive instead of flying.

 

[Al Patterson]

I'd drive or take Amtrak if the trip was short enough. (Provided Amtrak goes where you're going)

 

[reagan]

Oops, my bad. I was typing in a hurry. I'm going to MS, Mississippi, not MI. And yes, my preferred mode of travel is our beloved ol' clunking Amtrak. However, on this journey, travel is provided by others, tickets already purchased.

But you've both shared your sentiments which are mine as well... "Baggage handlers are to be avoided."

Thanks folks.

 

[rpsawin]

If the rules change at the time of departure consider FedEx or UPS as a way to get your gear back home. Travel is now fraught with problems and it appears that will not change anytime soon.

Bob

 

[reagan]

Excellent idea for consideration, Bob. Thanks. One should be able to ship right from the airport just before boarding.

 

[SolaresLarrave]

Memphis... you have a gift... Quite an interesting post! 🙂

 

[reagan]

That may very well be the longest post I've read on RFF. Whew! Anyway... I'll be in Biloxi, 7 days, very busy. Thanks, Memphis.