How to Pack Light
Travel photography is all about capturing the essence of a place, but lugging around too much gear can quickly become a hassle.
Early on, I would pack nearly everything “just in case,” only to find myself overwhelmed and weighed down. Over time, I learned which essentials to bring and how to pack light for the best travel photography experience. Here are my top recommendations for must-have gear and packing tips to keep things easy and enjoyable.
1. Choose a Versatile Camera
For travel, a compact yet powerful camera is key. Mirrorless cameras are great for this—they’re lighter than DSLRs but still offer high image quality and flexibility. If you prefer to keep it ultra-light, some of today’s smartphones have amazing cameras that can take beautiful travel photos. Choose a camera that’s easy to carry but powerful enough to capture stunning images.
- Pro Tip: Look for a camera with interchangeable lenses so you can adapt to different scenes without carrying multiple bodies. I recommend something like the Sony Alpha series or the Fujifilm X series for great portability and performance.
2. Pack a Lightweight, All-Around Lens
Instead of carrying several lenses, choose one that covers a range of focal lengths, like a 24-70mm or 18-135mm lens. These lenses allow you to shoot both wide-angle landscapes and zoom in for detailed shots, making them ideal for a variety of travel scenarios without the need for multiple lenses.
- Pro Tip: If you want something even more compact, try a prime lens like a 35mm or 50mm. These lenses are small, lightweight, and often have wider apertures for better low-light performance.
3. Bring a Compact Tripod
A sturdy but lightweight tripod is a lifesaver for night photography, landscapes, and long exposures. Look for a travel tripod that’s foldable and easy to carry, like the Manfrotto BeFree or the Joby GorillaPod, which can be wrapped around surfaces or used as a handheld stabilizer.
- Pro Tip: If a tripod feels like too much, consider a mini tabletop tripod for stability in a pinch. They fit easily in most bags and provide decent support for smaller cameras.
4. Use a Good Camera Bag for Easy Access
A comfortable camera bag can make a world of difference, especially if you’re on the move. Look for a lightweight backpack or crossbody bag that allows you to access your camera quickly. Make sure it has padded compartments to keep your gear safe and extra pockets for essentials like memory cards, batteries, and cleaning supplies.
- Pro Tip: Consider bags with anti-theft features like lockable zippers or hidden compartments. When you’re traveling, safety is just as important as convenience.
5. Extra Batteries and Memory Cards
Running out of battery or storage space is the last thing you want while traveling. Bring at least two extra batteries, especially if you’re shooting in cold weather, as batteries drain faster in lower temperatures. Pack multiple memory cards as well to avoid filling up your storage mid-adventure.
- Pro Tip: Use a memory card wallet to keep your cards organized and protected. I’ve found this to be a simple but effective way to avoid misplacing them.
6. Lightweight Filters
Filters, especially polarizing filters, can enhance your travel photos by reducing reflections and boosting colors in skies and water. If you enjoy long-exposure photography, a neutral density (ND) filter is great for capturing smooth water or motion blur without overexposing in daylight.
- Pro Tip: Bring just one or two essential filters in a small pouch. This keeps your kit lightweight while still allowing you to create some unique effects in your shots.
7. Portable Charger or Power Bank
If you’re relying on your phone for travel photography or navigation, a power bank is a must. Opt for a slim, high-capacity charger that fits easily in your bag and can handle multiple charges for your devices.
- Pro Tip: A power bank with multiple charging ports can also power your camera if it has a USB charging option, allowing you to pack even lighter.
8. Cleaning Kit
Travel can expose your gear to dust, moisture, and smudges, so a small cleaning kit is essential. Bring a microfiber cloth, lens blower, and small brush to keep your lenses and camera sensor clean. A clear shot can quickly be ruined by a smudge or speck of dust, so a quick clean-up on the go makes a big difference.
- Pro Tip: Avoid using your shirt to clean the lens, as this can scratch it. Microfiber cloths are soft and effective for cleaning without damage.
9. Lightweight Backup Option
If you’re on a longer trip or have important shots you don’t want to lose, consider a small portable SSD to back up your photos. Alternatively, you can use a wireless SD card that backs up images to your phone or tablet automatically.
- Pro Tip: Offloading your photos daily frees up space on your memory cards and gives you peace of mind in case something happens to your gear.
10. Dress for Comfort and Pack Layers
When you’re out shooting, you’ll be moving a lot, sometimes in different weather conditions. Dress comfortably, wear shoes suitable for walking, and consider layering for changes in temperature. If you’re traveling somewhere with unpredictable weather, bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho to protect both you and your gear.
Packing Light: Final Tips
Keeping your kit light doesn’t mean sacrificing quality—it’s about being selective with your essentials. Choose versatile gear that serves multiple purposes and prioritize items that enhance your travel experience without weighing you down. Pack smart, stay organized, and you’ll be able to move freely and capture beautiful photos wherever you go.
With this travel-friendly setup, you’ll be ready to capture stunning images without feeling bogged down. Enjoy the adventure, and happy shooting!