Must-Have Drone Accessories for Travel Photographers (2024)

For any travel photographer looking to expand their range and get some really cool shots from different points of view, then getting a drone is essential. I’ve had my drone for a few years now and I’ve found that it has really given me freedom with my photography as far as angles go and getting the shots I really want.

However, buying a drone also means purchasing awesome drone accessories that go with it! These must-have items will take your drone game to the next level and help you get the most out of your device.

 

Must-Have Drone Accessories for Travel Photographers

 

Backpack for Your Drone

Having a well-made backpack to put your drone and accessories into will make your life a million times easier. The two backpacks listed below are highly rated, have compartments for all your accessories, and are especially great for organization.

The DJI Mavic Backpack listed below has a spacious upper compartment for you personal items, holds 1-3 GoPros/action cameras, features adjustable dividers, and has padded back straps.

The DJI Phantom Backpack features a special propeller pocket, a styrofoam case specific to the phantom models, a battery-specific pocket, and ample interior space.

 

 

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Drone Carrying Case

If you’re not looking to invest in a backpack, then at least having a case will not only keep the items organized, it will also keep them from getting damaged. The two carrying cases below have ample padding to keep all your items safe and in place.

 

 

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Spare Drone Propellers

Most drones come with a couple spare propellers, but for anyone who likes to take their drone into any place with a tree, a wall, or if you’re new to flying, then it’s worth it to stock up.

A tip on this one is to purchase the same brand of propeller as your drone, and to skip out on the 3rd party options. In my experience this tends to keep the drone more balanced, and overall quieter.

 

 

Read more: The Ultimate Packing Guide for Travel Photographers

 

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Drone Propeller Guard

If you find that as much as you try, you keep having shaky landings or your drone has hit one too many trees, then it’s worth investing in a quality propeller guard.

A propeller guard is a layer of protection for your propellers (and objects, friends, etc). Just be aware that a propeller guard will make your drone a bit heavier, and will drain your battery life faster.

 

 

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Spare Drone Batteries

Even on a warm day, one fully-charged drone battery might last you about a half hour of flight. If you plan on taking your drone out for the day, I’d definitely recommend having a couple extra batteries.

 

 

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Car Charger

If you find that you go through your battery life quickly and are always in need of some more juice, then the convenience of a car charger is a must.

 

 

Read more: The Best Photography Spots in Banff National Park

 

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Drone Joystick Protector

While you can always disconnect the joysticks from the controller before you stick it in your bag, who has time for that? Using a joystick guard will keep your joysticks locked in place, your controller free from damage (something they tend to be prone to) and save you time and hassle.

Plus, most joystick guards, like this one made for the Mavic Pro, will protect the controller screen as well.

 

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Memory Cards

Your drone will likely come with a memory card, but it will probably be on the short end of space. I recommend getting a couple 32GB or 64GB micro SD cards, especially if you’re someone who likes to shoot video.

That said, definitely check and see which cards your drone/GoPro will take. For example, the DJI Phantom 2 will only take up to 32GB SD cards.

 

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Neutral Density Drone Filters

To take your drone photography to the next level, I recommend purchasing a set of neutral density filters. Given that your drone is likely to come with a fixed aperture set to wide-open, a NDF will essentially restrict the amount of light let into the camera, thereby allowing you to set slower shutter speeds.

I also use these to cut down on glare when shooting above water. I usually have at least one of these on my drone at all times.

I’d recommend buying a set that includes at least the ND8, ND16, ND32 filters.

 

 

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Drone Landing Pad

Having a landing pad might seem like an extraneous expense, but I’ve found that having one will not only prevent you from kicking dirt up into and onto your drone upon landing, it will also help to reduce shock to the body and mechanics of the device.

The landing pad listed below features waterproof material, a bright color for easy spotting, and a carrying case.

 
 

 

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