📦 EPISODE 16 — Travel & Packing Tips for Drone Pilots

Whether you’re heading to a nearby park or hopping on a flight across the country, traveling smart with your drone is key. A little preparation will save your gear — and your footage.

✈️ Domestic & International Travel Rules

• Canada: Most drones over 250g must be registered, even when traveling between provinces.

• Airlines: Always pack drone batteries in your carry-on (NOT checked luggage). Store them in fireproof LiPo bags.

• Customs: Have your drone registration, pilot certificate, and purchase receipts ready when flying internationally. Avoid countries with strict drone bans.

🎒 Smart Packing Essentials

• Use a hard-shell or padded case for protection.

• Include:

  • Spare props

  • Charging cables and ND filters

  • SD cards and backups

  • Landing pad (especially for beach/dusty zones)

🔋 Battery Travel Tips

• Set batteries to Storage Mode before long trips.

• Don’t travel with fully charged batteries.

• Bring a USB power bank that can top off your controller and phone.

📍 Scouting Locations

• Use Google Earth or apps like AirMap / DroneDeploy / DJI FlySafe.

• Plan for sunrise or sunset flights with golden hour lighting.

• Double-check for no-fly zones at your destination.

🛫 Checklist Before You Leave

• ✅ Batteries at 50-70%

• ✅ Props in good condition

• ✅ Remote + phone + app tested

• ✅ All firmware updated

• ✅ MicroSD cards empty & formatted

🎯 Bonus Tip:

Bring a microfiber cloth and lens blower — your camera needs love after bumpy travel!