Our lifestyle as scuba divers takes us to exotic destinations around the world. We travel to beautiful coral reefs, rugged ocean seamounts, and cold water wildernesses, often with an underwater camera system in tow.

Traveling with a camera system can prove challenging for new photographers and/or dive travelers. I’ve put together the tips in this featured video and article to help guide you to smooth travel experiences no matter where you’re headed and what camera you’re bringing.

Prepare For Your Photo Subjects

If you didn’t already plan your dive trip based on photo opportunities, you’ll want to check with the operator to do some research. Will you be seeing large or small marine life? Boat diving or shore diving? Will you have access to a camera room or the ability to safely change batteries between dives?

Knowing the answers to these questions will help you dial in your gear for the trip, pack accordingly, and even practice some photo techniques before departure. If you’re going to a macro photo hotspot, you may also want to research and create a “Top 10 Critters” list with the subjects you’d most like to see.

Know Your Airline Baggage Restrictions

Different airlines have different rules and regulations for your baggage, so be sure to call your airline to confirm their policies.

Generally, you can bring one carry-on up to 7kg/15lbs and one personal item, plus two checked bags up to 23kg/50lbs, however this can vary quite a bit. Batteries can present issues. So can regulators in carry-on bags. Sometimes you can get free extra weight allowance by indicating that your dive bag contains sporting goods.

The last thing you want is to try and repack at the check-in counter!

Don’t be Bashful About Travel Comforts

Long international flights aren’t known for their economy class comforts. The good news is that you can easily add a few touches to make your flight better. Some of my favorites are a toothbrush, eye drops, lip balm, an eye mask for sleeping, headphones, and a pen for customs forms.

I always bring my reusable water bottle and fill it up at the airport, usually drinking the whole thing by touchdown. This actually goes a long way in fighting dehydration during your first 3-4 dive trip days in a hot, humid climate.

Prepare for the Unexpected

Be sure to bring a small medical kit, along with any medication you might want or need during a trip. You likely won’t need to use it, but can take comfort in knowing you have it.

As a photographer, I also bring my ‘Save a Housing Kit’ so that I can fix basic issues that may arise with my camera, housing or other photo equipment.

A great dive photo trip requires a fair amount of planning, and these tips should help jump-start the process.

Brent Durand is a professional writer and underwater photo instructor. Find his in-depth video tutorial series at tutorials.brentdurand.com.