Where to put camcorder
 

I just had a quick question. I know I've been posting quite a few messages lately, hope I don't start to annoy people soon. This should be the last one for a while! :-)
My question is...as you might know, I'm flying to Germany (from the USA) on Saturday. Where do I put my camcorder? In my backpack or in my suitcase? Because I know that they tell you to put regular cameras to take pictures in your backpack because their screening machine at the airports might ruin the film. Does anyone know? Thanks

I would always take something like that in my carry-on, so I know exactly where it is. Those expensive items are the things that inevitably go missing if they lose your luggage!

As for myself, I would never put any kind of a camera in my checked luggage, unless I was prepared to have it get lost or broken and doubt it would be covered by any kind of insurance. If it is too inconvenient to have in your carry on, best to leave it home, although I know you would probably miss it (I know I would, if I had planned to use it on the trip). Happy traveling. Halfpint

I would keep the camcorder in your possesion at all times and not leave it in checked-in luggage. What if your suitcase didn't arrive in Germany?
Besides, if you see how they treat those cases then you certainly wouldn't put valuable electronic equipment in it!!

Hi

You can ask as many questions as you like!
I have a digital camcorder that uses a tape not memory stick. Not wanting to lose it, I took it with me on board as hand luggage. You will find they will screen all items whether it's luggage or stuff you bring on board. I found the screening process had no effect on my camcorder. Yours should be fine.

Have a good trip.

Screening doesn't affect video at all. I actually work with a guy who used to work at a large camera store and who knows a ton about these things. I asked him about it many years ago. Still, I would never check something like that because I would want to make sure it made it to the destination in one piece.

Do not put ANYthing valuable in checked luggaage... not anything that can be easily stolen or that you can't live without. This includes cameras, camcorder, ipods, laptops, cash, prescription glasses or medications, identification such as copies of your passport, etc.