You packed the most important things for your upcoming dream vacation: digital camera, extra batteries, battery charger and other equipment. Soon you’ll be facing the first of several airport security checks.

Are you ready?

Most agree that putting digital cameras and memory cards through airport x-ray machines does not cause any harm. There is some concern about metal-detectors, particularly hand-held wands used by airport personnel if you fail the detector test.

Magnetic devices

Digital media are affected by magnetic devices, not x-rays. Airports signs warn about x-ray damage to film - not digital equipment. Some believe you should avoid the powerful magnets in the drive motors of conveyor belts. They recommend placing your camera as far away from the beginning of belt as possible.

According to the U.S. Transport Security Administration:

“None of the screening equipment - neither the machines used for checked baggage nor those used for carry-on baggage - will affect digital camera images or film that has already been processed, slides, videos, photo compact discs or picture discs.”

” The screening equipment will not affect digital cameras and electronic image storage cards.”

For up-to-the-minute and additional information, including how to pack and how to get faster through airport lines, visit the TSA website: TSA Website