traveling South America with your equipment

tsabary · Mar 25, 2013

i'm planning on traveling SA for a few months starting januery 14'. the thing is, from what i've heard, alot of places in SA are not really tourist friendly and i'm kind of scared for my equipment.

did anyone has traveled this area before and can share his experience regarding this issue?

MK3Brent · Mar 25, 2013

I just came back from Brazil 2 weeks ago, and am kicking myself for not bringing my cameras. (I too was fearing for their safety.)
But after 24hrs there, there was so much to shoot and my personal safety was fairly good. If you think you'll use it, definitely bring it.

Visitante · Mar 25, 2013

It really depends to where are you going. I´m from Rio de Janeiro - Brazil, and i walk around with my camera and one or two lenses. All the tourist sites are pretty secure. I personaly don´t like to walk with my camera hanging on my neck, it stays in my backpack untill it´s needed.
We have plenty of beautiful sites to shoot.

If you are really scary of theft you mabe better to make a anti-theft protection plan.

Big Mike · Mar 25, 2013

Where are you now? You might be more likely to be mugged in your own city, than in 99.9% of South America. It might help if you narrowed down the 'area' you will be traveling to. Something more specific than a whole continent.

No matter where you are, use your common sense. If an area doesn't look or feel safe, then avoid it. Don't act like a victim.
And for your own peace of mind, make sure that your gear is covered by insurance (check you home owners/renters insurance).

My suggest for 'protecting' your gear...is to get a camera bag with a rain cover.

Forkie · Mar 25, 2013

Insure it before you go. Then take it with you and relax.

tsabary · Mar 26, 2013

Never thought of insuring it actually. Thanks

runnah · Mar 26, 2013

Don't walk around with your camera glued to your face, pay attention to your surrounding and those in it.

When I go out in a sketchy area I lose the battery grip, slap on my 35mm prime and shoot. I also ditched my branded strap for a plain black one to attract less attention.

I do also have my conceal carry permit so that helps.

MK3Brent · Mar 26, 2013

runnah said:
Don't walk around with your camera glued to your face, pay attention to your surrounding and those in it.

When I go out in a sketchy area I lose the battery grip, slap on my 35mm prime and shoot. I also ditched my branded strap for a plain black one to attract less attention.

I do also have my conceal carry permit so that helps.