Do you need to declare your camera gear when you travel?

Question: Do I need to declare my camera gear when I travel?

Answer: You do not need to declare your camera gear when you travel across country borders. But I would create a list of your gear and keep it with you when you travel. I list out the individual pieces that I have. I list the date of purchase, where I purchased it and I list out the serial number.

As Canadians, we can also fill out a Y38 form with Canada Customs on your way out of Canada (any airport or land crossing can do it). They write down all your serial numbers and give you an official stamp to say that gear left the country with you.

Sounds a bit excessive, right? Well yes, but once you get stopped by border guards and have all your camera gear searched and you are accused of purchasing a lens while I was in the USA, I thought it prudent to create a list and travel with it.

If you have any further comments, please add them to the comments section below. The more feedback and ideas the better.

Thanks for reading,

Kev