A photographer friend recently had their camera gear stolen while shooting a corporate event at a hotel. They put their fully loaded camera bag down for just a couple minutes . . .
We all know to never leave our gear unattended when in public. But that’s often easier said than done.
I use a wheeled case as much as possible not only because it takes the weight off my shoulders but also because it’s easier to secure a wheeled case than an over-the-shoulder bag. A Pelican case or similar is best because there are no zippers and you can lock the lid. Zippers are relatively easy to poke open with a screwdriver, a fork or even a ballpoint pen. Some zippers are made more puncture-resistant than others.
I have several homemade, plastic-coated steel cables of various lengths and matching padlocks. These cables are used on location, in my car trunk and in hotel rooms.
Plastic-coated steel cable is inexpensive and available at Home Depot and Canadian Tire. Most thefts are opportunistic grab-and-runs, so a cable of least 1/8″ thick should be good enough. You can go larger to 3/16″ or 1/4″ depending on your needs.
You can’t tell from this photo but the wire is plastic-coated. The plastic coating means the cable won’t scratch your camera cases, your hands or whatever you wrap the cable around.
Buy padlocks in packs of two, three or four so that they all use the same key or same combination. This makes it easier for you when you have multiple cable locks.
You might buy pre-made cables but they may be too short or too thick for your needs. Bicycle cable locks are too expensive, too short and too heavy.
Pacsafe makes metal mesh bags in three sizes which are good for backpacks and over-the-shoulder bags.
