Re: Traveling with equipment : Panasonic HVX

We travel with gear frequently and we've learned a few tricks over the years. First off, know your airlines rules. If you get a gate agent who is strict, a standard PortaBrace carry-on bag for an HPX370, HPX500, HPX2000, etc is too big. It's over the size limit.

We often travel with our HPX500, HPX170 and our 250. When we travel with the small cameras, they fit in a smaller PortaBrace bag that goes on board. We bought a bag that will fit in an overhead on a standard plane and it fits under the seat on commuter jets. (CRJ200, 700, 900) Avoid Embrarer 135/145 aircraft.

With the 500 we break it down and carry it on. We have a Cinebags 25 backpack. The body of the camera fits in the bag. We put the viewfinder and shotgun mic in the top pouch in the bag. There's also a laptop pouch in the bag. We use the side pockets for wireless mics and (2) Dionic 90s. The lens goes in a Pelican case that goes on board. It's briefcase sized. This way the camera never leaves my sight.

We use TufPak cases for tripods, light stands, etc and pack any other accessories in Pelican cases. We always try to rent lighting on-location if possible.

My other big tip, know the different types of aircraft and what they have in terms of on-board storage. Most camera bags will fit in the overheads on Airbus and Boeing AC. When you get into the commuter planes some are better than others.

Ryan Pratzel
Executive Producer | Creative Liquid Productions
creativeliquid.com