Gimbals are handy tools to have on hand at any shoot. But despite all their amazing capabilities, gimbals can be awkwardly shaped and notoriously delicate — making transporting them difficult and cumbersome.
Maybe you’ve tried in vain to cram your gimbal into an undersized bag, or resigned yourself to packing your gimbal in its original box to ensure safe travel.
Well, in this article we will examine the best, most practical, and most cost-effective methods to pack up your gimbal for safe transport and travel.
In short, the best way to pack and carry your gimbal for transport and travel is in an appropriately sized bag or backpack with sufficient padding. Some of the best options include a bag specially designed to hold a gimbal or a camera backpack with enough space to store a gimbal.
Keep reading for specific methods of packing your gimbal, as well as further tips on gimbal travel and packing.
Packing Your Gimbal In A Backpack
With cost, versatility, and efficiency in mind, the best way to pack a gimbal is in a camera backpack.
The right camera backpack will be able to hold your gimbal, camera, lenses, microphone, and anything else you need it to.
That said, not all camera backpacks are created equal, and some may not be suitable for holding a gimbal.
Backpack Size
The first thing to consider when looking for a suitable camera backpack is size.
Many camera backpacks are designed with only cameras in mind, so they may be too small.
Measure your gimbal and compare it to the backpack’s specs prior to purchase.
Material and Quality
The second factor to consider when purchasing a camera backpack to hold your gimbal is material and quality.
Most camera backpacks will have soft material designed to keep your camera (or gimbal safe), but keep this in mind when shopping.
If possible, look for a camera backpack with a hard shell. This is very important for keeping your gimbal safe during travel.
Investing in a waterproof backpack is also a good idea. Especially for those planning on shooting in wet or rainy conditions (though operating your gimbal in the rain is likely a bad idea).
Functionality
The third thing to consider when looking for a suitable camera backpack is functionality.
Consider how you will access your gear.
The best backpack design for gimbal storage and access is a large zippered front panel.
Backpacks with this design offer easy access to your gear and often feature removable velcro sections for in-bag organization.
Steps For Packing Your Gimbal In A Camera Backpack
- Start by arranging the backpack’s removable inserts to ensure there is a suitable room for both your gimbal and equipment.
- Lock all of your gimbal’s axis.
- Make the gimbal as small as possible by unlocking the plate and sliding inwards on the gimbal, making sure it is not sticking out further than necessary. Also, remove any pieces, such as handles, stands, or accessories.
- Place the gimbal on its flat side inside of the backpack.
- If your backpack includes velcro straps, use one to help keep your gimbal in place. If you do not have a velcro strap, you may choose to place a rolled-up towel on top of your gimbal to keep it from moving during travel.
- Place any of your gimbal accessories into the backpack’s smaller packets.
Attaching Your Gimbal To The Outside Of A Backpack
If you cannot find a camera backpack large or suitable enough to carry a gimbal, you can also attach a gimbal to the outside of your backpack, so long as it has the appropriate straps and pockets.
Most camera backpacks include outer straps and pockets in order to attach and carry tripods and monopods. These can also be used for gimbals.
However, keep in mind that this method is not as safe. A gimbal attached to the outside of a bag is at a higher risk of damage.
Steps For Attaching Your Gimbal To The Outside Of A Backpack
- Lock all of your gimbal’s axis.
- Make the gimbal as small as possible by unlocking the plate and sliding inwards on the gimbal, making sure it is not sticking out further than necessary. Also, remove any pieces, such as handles, stands, or accessories.
- Slide your gimbal into the packet on the side of your camera backpack.
- Lock the gimbal into place using the strap above the pocket.
Using A Specially Designed Gimbal Case
Another option for packing your gimbal is to purchase a dedicated gimbal bag.
These bags are designed to carry specific types of gimbals and are often manufactured by the same brand as the gimbal they are meant to carry
While this is arguably the most effective way to pack a gimbal, these bags aren’t typically designed to carry anything other than a gimbal, meaning you’ll be forced to lug around multiple bags of equipment.
Furthermore, these bags can be pricey, considering they only have one purpose — carrying a single gimbal.
This said, investing in something sturdy like a Pelican Case is never a bad idea. Especially for more expensive gimbals and other equipment.
Other Ways To Transport Your Gimbal
If purchasing a camera backpack or dedicated case is simply not an option for you, there are a few other ways to safely transport a gimbal. These might not be the most stylish methods of transport, but they’ll ensure that nothing breaks on your way to a shoot.
The Towel Method
Ok, this is pretty straightforward.
- Lock all of your gimbal’s axis.
- Make the gimbal as small as possible by unlocking the plate and sliding inwards on the gimbal, making sure it is not sticking out further than necessary. Also, remove any pieces, such as handles, stands, or accessories.
- Lay your gimbal flat on a towel and roll it up until it is completely covered.
- Slide your gimbal into a regular backpack or tote bag.
Use The Original Packaging
There’s no trick to this.
Just pack your equipment up in its original box and you are good to go.
Some gimbals even come in sturdy boxes with plastic handles, so this isn’t the worst method of transport out there!
FAQs About Gimbal Transport
Can You Bring Your Gimbal On A Plane?
Yes, you can bring your gimbal on a plane either in your carry-on or checked luggage.
Unless you have invested in a strong gimbal case like a Pelican Case, you may choose to pack your gimbal as a carry-on.
However, you may wish to review the rules in your country regarding flying with batteries. Some gimbal batteries may need to be removed and stored in your checked luggage.
How Do You Pack A Gimbal For Hiking and Camping?
If you plan to head off into the forest or mountains with your gimbal, you may want to consider a few things.
Rain and moisture can damage gimbals, so investing in a waterproof bag or backpack is key.
Similarly, making sure your backpack has a hard shell will help to ensure your gear stays safe on your adventure.
Do You Have To Take Apart and Rebalance A Gimbal Every Time Time You Pack It?
Hypothetically, no. If you are able to find a large enough backpack to store your gimbal without needing to downsize your setup, you won’t need to reset your gimbal.
However, in most cases, you will find that saving space is key, and therefore taking apart your gimbal setup will be necessary.
How Do You Keep A Gimbal Safe While Travelling?
If you invest in a bag or backpack with suitable cushioning and a waterproof, hard shell, your gimbal should stay safe.
Just keep in mind that gimbals are delicate pieces of equipment and should be treated with respect when handling.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, you have found this article useful and feel confident packing up your gimbal for transport and travel.
Remember that gimbals are delicate, so taking the time to pack them carefully will help to ensure that your gimbal lasts for a long time.
Similarly, investing in a good quality bag, backpack, or carrying case may cost you in the short term but will save you money and stress in the long term by protecting your expensive gear.
Happy travels!
