So I have done it again. I have traveled. Well that happens all the time. I always have more or less the same gear in my camera bag when traveling and there has never ever been a problem with it.

I travel with camera gear: Canon 1D mark IV, Canon EF 16-35mmF4L IS, Canon 50mm F1.2L, a bunch of Lee filters like big and little stopper, remote shutter release, and other cables.

Else I had sun-glases, medications, bose headphones, a book, 15″ laptop and a sweather.

I have been to and from Europe and USA, within the US and within Europe several times, never any problem. Until last Sunday when I was flying from NYC to Graz in Austria. Checked my luggage and even upgraded my ticket I got the question about the weight of my carry on luggage, he wanted me to weigh it and it came on around 9 or 10kg, and he then wanted me to check it. There is nothing in that bag I want to check, I have it in my carry on because I don’t want it to be damaged in the suitcase or lost.  As some of you may have asked where I have my tripod, yes that is in the suitcase. I take a chance on that being there.

Before the situation got to him bringing the subject further I asked him, ” I can have a camera hanging around my neck when I enter the plane ” He said that is correct. Took my camera out with the 16-35mm lens attached and took out the sweater too. Added it back to the weight. Now less than 8kg and suddenly the whole problem was gone.

I am so amazed. How is this possible an issue, if I have it outside or if I have it in the bag?

When you are a traveling photographer be aware of how you can travel to make it easier for you.