Taking my drone around the world really has enhanced my work in more ways than I could have imagined but it doesn’t come without its challenges. Travelling with a drone can be a burden and it’s really important to remember to do your research into the location that you are planning on taking your drone to. Airports, border crossings and national parks/nature reserve areas all present their challenges. There are certain countries that you must avoid completely when travelling with your drone.
Below are my personal recommendations brought to you through first hand experience of taking my drone to destinations including Central America, the Caribbean, Iceland and Greece.
DO your research before attempting to fly your drone. I know it’s boring but it’s so important to do. Check the laws and regulations of the country that you are planning on going to. Maybe you have to register your drone with the local authorities, maybe you need a permit, maybe you have to pay tax in order to bring your drone into the country (e.g. Mexico) and maybe the country doesn’t allow drones at all (e.g. Nicaragua). Also remember to research the specific area where you plan to fly. National parks and areas of preservation often prohibit the use of drones. It may sound obvious but also make sure that you are not near an airfield. DJI drones tend to be pretty good detecting safe fly areas through GPS but it is not always correct.
DON’T attempt to take your drone into Nicaragua. This is a country that I have first hand experience with and almost got caught out but luckily came across this information before attempting to enter the country. The Nicaraguan government has probitied drones completely and have also restricted tourists from bringing more than one camera and zoom lens per person into the country. I entered Nicaragua from Costa Rica (land crossing) and left my drone and some of my lenses at a surf camp I was working for in Costa Rica. I went back to collect them at a later date. When crossing the border they did background checks on me and my friends. You will likely be refused entry if they suspect you are a journalist or reporter. If you have a photography or journalism website it’s best to deactivate this whilst crossing the border. Other countries to avoid with a drone include but are not limited to include Egypt, Morocco, Cuba, Barbados and Algeria.
DO take extra cash. Some countries like you give you surprise charges for bringing a drone into their country. When I entered Mexico my bag got searched by the border police. They spotted my drone simply from its DJI bag. They had clearly done this before! I got charged tax, I think I ended up paying about £60 and couldn’t even fly my drone once I’d entered the country. From my understanding, only Mexican citizens are permitted to use drones weighing over 250g. However if like me you are travelling between multiple countries it’s useful to know that your drone won’t be confiscated, you just have to bite the bullet and hand over the cash!
DO get people involved with your shots. Now onto the more creative and fun side of taking drone shots! I found that generally when you mention you have a drone, most people are fascinated and can get quite excited about the concept. It can be a bit of a novelty for people, especially when you’re in a beautiful place so make the most of this and get them involved! Some of my best shots have been when everyone get involved and I can create something really unique. Sharing these photos with fellow travellers is bound to make you popular too!
Other Things to Consider
Heat- Hot weather drains batteries much faster! Make sure your drone isn’t sitting in the scorching sun all day before you decide to get that perfect sunset shot.
Wind- Most drone’s are pretty good in windy conditions (within reason of course), however it will use up more battery especially when hovering.
Resorts- It’s generally best not to fly your drone in a holiday resort, I’m sure you wouldn’t appreciate something buzzing around you whilst you’re trying to relax on a sun lounger, bees and flies are annoying enough! However if you do think it could be appropriate, speak to the staff.
Respect- Don’t give drones and drone pilots a bad name. Fly your drone as far away from people as possible unless they want to get involved in the shot!
Drone size- Smaller drones tend to have less restrictions and are less hassle. If you are yet to buy a drone, something under 250g will likely give you more freedom with regards to rules and regulations.
But most of all have fun with it! This is your opportunity to be creative and see the world from a whole new perspective!
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