Camera
AllowedPersonal cameras allowed; pro rigs may need a carnet.
Rules vary by destination and the official customs or aviation-security authority makes the final decision, so verify before you travel.
Visual reference
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What this means
A camera is a personal device for taking photos or video, from compact and mirrorless cameras to DSLRs and action cameras, typically powered by a lithium battery. One camera for personal use is generally allowed and carried in the cabin, but professional rigs or high-value gear may need proof of ownership or a temporary-import document to avoid customs duty. Photography itself is restricted in some sensitive locations.
What's included
- Compact, mirrorless, and DSLR cameras
- Action cameras (e.g. GoPro-style devices)
- Camera lenses and accessories
- Camera lithium batteries and chargers
- Memory cards and tripods
- Camcorders and video cameras
What's not included
- Drones with cameras, which are separately regulated (see drone)
- Professional broadcast and film production gear (see broadcast-gear)
- Smartphones used as cameras (see mobile-phone)
- Spare loose lithium batteries (see spare-batteries)
Common types & examples
Personal camera
One personal camera is allowed in the cabin in essentially all countries.
Professional gear
Multiple bodies, lenses, and rigs may look commercial and trigger duty or a carnet requirement.
Camera batteries
Spare lithium batteries must go in carry-on with terminals protected.
Large camera batteries
Batteries between 100 and 160Wh may need airline approval.
Why it's regulated
Cameras contain lithium batteries that are an aviation fire risk in checked baggage, and professional or high-value gear can attract customs duty or be treated as a commercial import; photography is also restricted near some sensitive sites.
Typical allowance
Travelers can generally bring one personal camera without duty under a personal-effects allowance; what counts as professional or commercial gear and any duty vary by destination.
Provisional — confirm with your destination
Before you travel
Documents you may need
- Purchase receipt or proof of ownership for valuable gear
- Proof-of-prior-possession registration to re-enter duty-free (e.g. U.S. CBP Form 4457)
- ATA Carnet for temporary import of professional camera equipment
Next steps
- 1.Carry your camera and spare batteries in hand luggage
- 2.Protect spare battery terminals from short-circuit
- 3.Keep receipts or register valuable gear before departure
- 4.Consider an ATA Carnet for professional equipment
- 5.Check photography restrictions at sensitive destinations
Official sources
- Safe Travel with Lithium Batteries· IATA
- CBP Form 4457 - Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad· U.S. CBP
- ATA Carnet FAQs· U.S. CBP
Always verify with the official authority for your destination.
Country-specific rules
The default posture above applies worldwide. For the exact rules at your destination, check the country guide.
View country rules →