In the bag: Ten things traveling photographers should always carry
by Chris Nicholson

The most important item a photographer should carry in his or her camera bag, without question, without argument, without fail, is: A camera. But after that (and some lenses, film and batteries), you'll find that your bag still has some empty pockets to fill. Here are some suggestions for how to use that ancillary space. You'll most likely find most of these items useful to have around.

1. Anti-Permit Gear. Have you ever been working in a U.S. national park when a ranger tells you that photography is not allowed without a permit? It happens because some park employees are confused about the rules. Photography is allowed without a permit or fee on all public federal land, as long as the photography does not involve models or non-natural props, does not damage resources, does not constitute a risk to the public, does not require extensive assistance from park personnel, does not take place in normally prohibited areas, and does not interfere with public enjoyment of the park. Print the law that says this — Public Law 106-206 — and put it in your bag. Showing it, politely, should get you off the hook.

2. Nut Driver. You know that little plastic tool that comes with some tripods so you can adjust the tension of the lever leg locks? Those tools break. Buy a nut driver that fits your locks. It will serve you well.

3. Jewelers Screwdrivers. The only tools that will fit the screws on most of your camera gear. You normally don't want to attempt your own camera repairs, but in an emergency, Jewelers screwdrivers are the only tools that can even help you get started.

4. Film Leader Retriever. It doesn't happen often, but it happens often enough. You put a fresh roll of film in the camera, thinking you'll use it within a few minutes; alas, you don't shoot again for a few hours, and the light has changed dramatically. Rather than use an inappropriate film, and rather than discard an unused (or half-used) roll, you can use your film leader retriever to save resources and money.

5. Gaffer's Tape. An indispensable tool. Gaffer's tape is strong but easy to tear, holds well in heat and does not leave residue. It's also expensive, about $10 to $20 per roll. Buy some and make small rolls; re-wrap a few yards of tape onto either old film canisters, pieces of cut PVC pipe or a pencil (which nicely doubles as a writing instrument). Put them in your bag, in your vest pockets, in your car, in your luggage ... everywhere. You'll always have it when you need it to fix a lens hood, to secure a camera-strap buckle, to repair a tripod grip, etc.

6. FAA Film Regulations. Since September 11, hand-checks of film at airports have become harder to get, but Title 14 of the FAA regulations still mandates that passengers traveling with film are entitled to them. Print the regulation (also available as a PDF) so you can nicely show Section 108-209.e to inspectors who give you a hassle about this. We should expect security personnel to comply more readily now that they're federal employees.

7. The Nikon School Handbook. Do I know how to determine exposure? To adjust for film reciprocity? To expose for a full moon? Yes. But did I ever memorize the exposure formula for determining the length of star trails? Honestly ... no. That's why I carry The Nikon School Handbook. It tells you a bunch of other stuff, too, including formulas for close-up work, tips on shooting multiple exposures, TV screens and more. It's a great reference, and it's small. You can get a free copy by attending Nikon School or you can buy a copy by visiting Nikon Mall. (For more information, see my Nikon School Handbook review.)

8. Shower Caps. They'll protect your gear from rainy weather. Rain capes are better, but most photographers don't work in the rain enough to warrant buying one. For emergencies, keep two disposable shower caps in your bag. They're the perfect size to cover camera bodies or moderate telephoto lenses, and you can get one free every time you stay at a hotel.

9. Extra Lens Caps. When working, I usually put all my caps in the same vest pocket, but sometimes I change lenses so much in one location that I stop being organized. In the past, I've had to dig through all my pockets — in my photo vest, pants, shirt, jacket and bag — to find my caps again. After a couple years, I finally learned to carry extra lens caps. I bought two extra caps for each size lens I had, and I bought extra end caps, too. I put them in various pockets in my bag and in the glove box of the car. It costs only a few dollars, but the sanity you can save is priceless.

10. Ultimate Exposure Computer. Photographer Fred Parker has published a great cheat-sheet to determining exposure in any light without using a meter. It's Old-time Knowledge 101 (based on Exposure Values), and every photographer should know it. Read the article and print the chart. I even laminated mine.

Read More Photography Articles