Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Drones: Essential Tips for 2025

No longer just a tool for licensed professionals or a hobby for the wealthy, high-quality drones are now sold at most electronics stores and can be more affordable than a camera without the wings.

Although drone photography reaches new heights (pun intended), so do reports of incidents from amateur drone pilots wreaking havoc.

Therefore, don’t take off on your next trip with a drone until you thoroughly understand the red tape, compliance concerns, and aviation guidelines in place to ensure safety is the priority.

So before you throw your drone (not your caution) to the wind, use this guide to get you cleared for take-off.

How to travel with your drone: What is TSA’s drone policy?

TSA’s drone policy primarily defers to individual airlines’ guidelines regarding traveling with drones in-cabin or storing them in checked luggage. TSA’s primary concern is with your drone’s battery: lithium batteries, fuel cells, and components of certain parachute systems may be prohibited in baggage.

Given that most commercial drones are relatively small, once you’ve checked your airline’s policies, you’re likely able to pack it in your carry-on or checked luggage. Larger specialist drones or higher-end ones may be outside the dimensions for carry-on, especially when in protective cases.

Keeping expensive equipment in a carry-on case is good practice, as you can better control how it’s handled. Likewise, always pack batteries in a carry-on bag, ensuring they can be stored in a pressurized environment where temperature fluctuations are minimized. Most commercial drone batteries have less than 100 Wh (watt-hours), but it’s wise to check against the airline’s rules just in case.

Look at the airport security practices for any country you’re transiting through. When traveling with your drone through customs, be aware that laws vary from country to country, and some places outright ban drones. If you’re traveling through security to a country with strict drone laws, you should leave it at home for that particular trip to avoid risking fines or confiscation.

Can you carry a drone on an international flight? Drone regulations around the world

As unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) become more commonly used, policymakers struggle to keep up. Many countries have established laws regarding drones, while others do not. Regulations can vary widely, including the maximum altitude for aircraft, permissible areas, the distance from buildings, and whether identity tags are necessary. Generally, UAVs should only be flown while they are visible to the pilot.

Where to keep up to date on drone laws and regulations

Leading drone manufacturer DJI maintains a handy link on their website for local drone laws listed by country, which they update regularly. The Global Drone Regulations Database also features a search function showcasing recent updates. In the United States, authorities permit tourists to fly drones under the Federal Aviation Administration.

The most important guideline to remember: never fly a drone within a 5-mile radius of any airport.

Always research flight clearance at your intended destination before you arrive, as rules and ordinances can vary greatly by city and state and may change frequently.

The 3 best apps for drones: a map, a forecast, and a photo wizard

B4UFly: An FAA-sponsored app for recreational drone pilots that provides information on where you can and cannot fly in the US. This resource is also the most comprehensive compilation of all airports in the US and offers air clearance options via text message depending on your location.

UAV Forecast: A real-time log of local weather conditions that helps gauge wind, visibility, and precipitation.

PhotoPills: This app is an incredible resource for aligning the perfect shot once you’re ready to fly.

Why your drone’s weight matters

Drones over 0.55 lbs (0.25 kg) should be registered on the FAA website, which also contains additional information on policy and use. A flying limit of 400 feet is typical, while pilots should avoid dangerous areas and refrain from flying over crowds. Beginners should consider a compact drone under 0.55 lbs (0.25 kg) to simplify the process of getting into the air.

In Canada, a strict height limit of 295 feet (90 meters) applies, while drone operators must stay at least five kilometers away from airports, airfields, and aircraft. Further specifics are available through Transport Canada. In Italy, drones compliant with the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) regulations are allowed to fly, provided they do not exceed 229 feet (70 meters) or operate at night or over populated areas. In Japan, drones must maintain a minimum distance of 100 feet (30 meters) from people, buildings, and vehicles, with a maximum height of 492 feet (150 meters).

Can you fly drones in US national parks?

Drones are not permitted for recreational or commercial use in US national parks or US national forests. Generally, US state parks allow drones unless prohibited by a posted order.

Be aware of no-drone zones

While countries have varied rules regarding height and location, some places have outright banned the use of drones. These locations include:

Algeria
Cuba
Morocco
Nicaragua
North Korea

Other countries impose extremely strict or unclear drone regulations; therefore, flying is definitely not recommended until policies clarify. These include:

Barbados
Côte d’Ivoire
Egypt
Iran
Iraq
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Madagascar
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Syria

Best practices for using your drone on vacation

Many official rules and regulations for piloting drones overlap with practical tips that ensure both your safety and your equipment’s security. As a general principle, it’s always best to keep your aircraft in sight to prevent damage or crashes. Likewise, always take wildlife and nature into account; it’s advisable to research if any endangered or protected species inhabit the area.

Privacy is another significant factor to consider; drones can easily access hard-to-reach areas that may have been designed to maintain privacy. As a courtesy, respect other people’s personal space in apartments, buildings, and public areas like beaches. Furthermore, never fly your drone near military bases, government property, or private property. Just because there’s an open, remote patch of land doesn’t automatically mean you’re free to fly. You are responsible for obtaining the necessary flight licenses and clearances at all times.

Recreational drone use remains just that: recreational. Once you start utilizing your drone skills for profit, you transition into the professional arena and need to secure the appropriate clearances, licenses, and approvals. As previously mentioned, maintaining at least a 5-mile distance from airports is crucial, as drones can create significant issues with air traffic.

This guide serves to equip you with the necessary knowledge; thus, it’s time to get creative and have fun with your drone!

This article was first published on Oct 9, 2019, and updated on Apr 28, 2022.