OYP-Team Drone Travel Guide: Drones are becoming increasingly popular and affordable. Drones are especially nice when travelling, as they allow you to capture the beauty of nature from a bird’s eye view. However, there are also many points to consider when traveling with a drone. No matter whether you are a hobby pilot, blogger, YouTuber or professional photographer, in this guide we will tell you everything about traveling with a drone. We will also introduce you to the currently best models from 2023 and go into detail about drone laws and drone insurance abroad.
The Best Travel Drone
There are many drone models on the market. We have tried out a number of manufacturers and flight models ourselves, but we can only advise everyone to invest a little more money. Cheap drones are usually not worth their money and are NOT suitable for travel. However, you do not always have to buy the most expensive models, as a rule, cheaper entry-level models and compact mini drones are sufficient for hobby pilots as well.
In the following sections, we will introduce you to the best travel drones in more detail and tell you which model is suitable for which purpose.
DJI Mavic
The DJI Mavic 3 represents the top product in DJI’s range. With the Mavic 3, masterpieces can be created at the highest level, but the dimensions of the camera drone are still perfectly acceptable for taking it with you everywhere. The Mavic 3 is by no means for everyone. This masterpiece of technology costs at least $2,000. So if you only want to take occasional snapshots when traveling, you should probably choose a drone of the DJI Mini series (see below).
However, if you are a professional and want to record videos at the highest level, then there is no way around the Mavic 3. We have attached the data of the Mavic 3 for you.
- Weight: 895g (Exceeds weight limit in many countries, requiring permits!)
- Dimensions: 221 × 96,3 × 90,3 mm (L×W×H)
- ca. 45 minutes flight time
- 40 MP Camera / 84° angle
- Apple ProRes 422 HQ
- Apple ProRes 422
- Apple ProRes 422 LT
- 5.1K: 5120×2700 with 24/25/30/48/50 fps
- DCI 4K: 4096×2160 with 24/25/30/48/50/60/120 fps
- 4K: 3840×2160 with 24/25/30/48/50/60/120 fps
By the way, we don’t have a DJI Mavic 3 ourselves because it’s just too expensive for us.
DJI Mavic Mini
The DJI Mini series is ideal for travelers and is actually suitable for every purpose. Some of the mini models are also quite cheap, which also makes the purchase price reasonable for hobby pilots.
The big advantage of the DJI Mini models is the low weight and the very compact dimensions. This means that the drone can be flown legally almost anywhere and takes up very little space in your luggage.
In 2023, the DJI Mini will be available in 3 versions / model variants. The DJI Mini SE, The DJI Mini 2 and the DJI Mini 3 Pro. Depending on the model, you can take extremely good photos and videos with the Mini, which are definitely also suitable for professional use in the field of social media and on YouTube. We will now go into detail about the features of the individual models and when they are suitable:
DJI Mini SE
- 2,7K Video 30 FPS
- Full HD Video 60 FPS
- 12 MP Camera 83° angle
- 3 axis Gimbal
- Weight < 249g
- Dimensions: 138 × 81 × 58 mm (L×W×H)
- Airworthy up to wind speed 5
- Suitable for: hobby pilots – photo snapshots – Full HD recordings of all kinds
DJI Mini 2
- 4K Video 30 FPS
- 2,7K Video 60 FPS
- Full HD Video 60 FPS
- 12 MP Camera 83° angle
- 3 axis Gimbal
- Weight < 249g
- Dimensions: 138 × 81 × 58 mm (L×W×H)
- Airworthy up to wind speed 5
- Suitable for: Photo snapshots – Full HD recordings of all kinds – 2.7K recordings of all kinds – 4K cinematic recordings
DJI Mini 3 Pro
- 4K Video 60 FPS
- 2,7K Video 60 FPS
- Full HD Video 60 FPS
- Slow Motion Full HD 120 FPS
- 48 MP Camera 82,1° angle (incl. RAW)
- 3 axis Gimbal
- Weight < 249g
- Dimensions: 145 × 90 × 62 mm (L×W×H)
- Airworthy up to wind speed 5
- Suitable for: Photo snapshots – Full HD recordings of all kinds – 2.7K recordings of all kinds – 4K recordings of all kinds
–> More about the DJI Mini 3 Pro
We currently use the DJI Mini 2 for YouTube videos and pictures when we travel, because it represents an optimal compromise between price and performance and is also very compact (check our videos on our YouTube channel). If you currently want the best camera quality in a compact housing, you should choose the DJI Mini 3 Pro, which is the absolute top product among travel drones on the entire market!
Fimi X8 Mini
If you are looking for an alternative to DJI products and want to spend a little less money, the Fimi X8 Mini could be just the right travel drone for you. In terms of performance data, the Fimi X8 is on the same level as the Mini 2, but is a bit cheaper again. Camera-wise, the two models are nearly the same, but the X8 comes with better flight modes and path tracking. Even if we don’t currently have the drone in our portfolio, we plan to purchase it as an extension in the near future.
- 4K Video 30 FPS
- 12 MP Camera 80° angle
- 3 axis Gimbal
- Weight 258g Standard-Battery / 245g Pro-Battery
- Dimensions: 145 × 85 × 56 mm (L×W×H)
- Airworthy up to wind speed 5
- Good for: Photo snapshots – 4K and Full HD cinematic recordings
–> More about the Fimi X8 Mini
DJI Tello Ryze
The DJI Tello Ryze is a micro drone that many travelers are not aware of. Admittedly, the drone is by no means sufficient for filmmakers and YouTubers, but if you only want to take snapshots as a hobby, then this mini drone could be an option for you. Travel bloggers who only need a snapshot from the air every now and then could be really satisfied with the Tello.
The Ryze Tello is extremely compact and can be flown directly via a smartphone app without a remote control. The advantage is obvious: in the end you need almost no space in your suitcase. The handling of the Tello is also very easy and quick to learn.
In addition, the small drone is very quiet and can hardly be seen in the sky, which above all does not disturb your environment and thus also allows discreet flying. Since you do not have a large remote control in your hand, you will not attract attention when flying with this drone on the ground.
Unfortunately, the Tello does not have a gimbal, which makes it rather useless for video recordings. Photos can be taken wonderfully with the Tello, which are suitable for social media, websites and private use. In the end, however, they lack a higher resolution.
Another advantage is the extremely low price, the drone is available from around 100 dollar. This also makes a crash/loss manageable.
Unfortunately, the little Tello also has disadvantages. So it is not suitable for video recordings. In addition, the flight time is a bit short, you should definitely always have several batteries with you. Wind also causes problems for the small drone. Above all, gusts of wind near the ground are dangerous.
Pros:
- Very cheap
- Suitable for hobby pilots
- Does not disturb people in the area and is very discreet
Cons:
- Short battery life (approx. 13 min)
- Poor video quality (720p only)
- Beware of the wind!
Attached you will find a small photo gallery with pictures that we shot with the DJI Tello Ryze on Koh Phi Phi in Thailand. If this image quality is sufficient for you, you can buy the Ryze Tello without risk!
–> You can buy the Tello in the DJI Shop – just type and search for “Tello”!
Best drone for travel vloggers
In our opinion, the best drone for travel vloggers is the DJI Mini 3 Pro. This drone only takes up little space in your luggage, but has enough camera power to take professional pictures and videos for YouTube, Instagram or other social networks. Even professionals are convinced of the new Mini 3 Pro and so this is the best drone for travel vloggers.
Drone Accessories for Travel
There are so many accessories for drones that it almost makes you dizzy. Much of it is unnecessary junk. However, there are also many gadgets that have a use and also ensure better recordings or enhanced fligh time. We warmly recommend the following accessories for traveling with a drone.
Batteries
Many drones allow you to fly for 20 minutes before the battery dies, but that’s not much either. During this time you cannot make any reasonable recordings, so you need at least 2, or even better 3 batteries. If you are going to be out for a longer period of time during a day trip, spare batteries are even more necessary.
ND Filter
An ND filter (Neutral Density Filter) acts like a pair of sunglasses for the drone’s camera and darkens the image slightly, producing better quality, especially on a bright day. You will find out why an ND filter can be so important later in this article.
Spare propeller
You will need replacement propellers sooner or later, no matter how careful you fly, propellers wear out pretty quickly. Be it during transport or landing, the propellers are vulnerable and must then be swapped out to ensure a safe flight.
Transport bags
Be sure to buy a transport case for your travels. This is the only way you can transport the drone undamaged. These are available as a small hard-shell case or as a soft case. We always transport our drones in the waterproof hard shell, so absolutely nothing can happen and all the accessories are tidy packed.
Drone Insurance
Drone insurance is required in many countries to be allowed to fly legally. Even if this is not required by law, you should definitely take out drone liability insurance voluntarily. This protects you from liability claims for personal injury and property damage, worldwide!
However, it is important that you comply with the drone laws of the respective country, because only then will the insurance take effect.
Taking a Drone on a Plane
In general, it is completely unproblematic to transport a drone on an airplane. The drone can either be carried in hand luggage or in checked luggage. Please note, however, that rechargeable batteries are not permitted in checked baggage and must be transported separately in hand baggage.
It is also particularly important to secure the drone against damage. Especially if you want to pack them in the suitcase, we recommend a waterproof drone case made of hard plastic. Only in this way is it 100% protected against damage. But even in hand luggage, a hard case is never a mistake!
Drone in carry on luggage
The best option is to transport the drone directly in your hand luggage. This protects it from theft and damage. You also have the batteries with you. Very strict airlines require the use of a fireproof battery bag. We definitely advise you to buy such a bag and always have it with you. This is how you avoid trouble at the airport. The so-called Lipo Bags only cost a few bucks anyway.
Obey Local Drone Laws
Especially when traveling with a drone, it is extremely important to know the drone laws of the destination country. While flying a drone is completely unproblematic in many regions, you can get into a lot of trouble, especially in authoritarian countries. There are a number of cases where extremely high fines up to long prison sentences have been imposed. Most of the time there is also the accusation of espionage, which is something really serious.
Therefore, always find out in advance about the drone laws of your holiday country and take care of compliance with them in advance. We have put together a few examples of current drone regulations in popular travel countries for you.
Drone Laws Thailand
Thailand has officially tightened its drone laws and flying a drone is no longer that easy legally. Although there is little control by authorities, you should definitely observe the current drone laws in Thailand.
- Your drone must be registered with the CAAT (fill-in form only available in Thai + takes up to 2 months)
- You are not allowed to fly higher than 90 meters.
- You may only control your drone within visual contact.
- Drone flights are only allowed in daylight.
- Your drone must not be heavier than 2 kilograms.
- A distance of 9 kilometers must be maintained from airports.
- Drone flights over crowds and in cities are not allowed
Drone Laws Philippines
In the Philippines, flying a drone for private purposes is allowed and there are no major requirements, except of course the standards such as: keep a distance of at least 30m from people, do not fly near airports and do not exceed a minimum height of 120m. The Philippines makes piloting a drone very easy for tourists. However, there may be some places (e.g. Boracay) where flying a drone is prohibited. So always ask a local for information.
The situation is different if you want to fly commercially in the Philippines, for example as a film team. Commercial flights require a license from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. To do this, several tests must be completed and appropriate flying experience must be proven.
Drone Laws Cambodia
In Cambodia, flying a drone is generally allowed, but there are also some unclear points. For example, flying in Phnom Penh is prohibited. A permit is required to fly in Angkor Wat, but this is said to be very expensive. In general, you should always ask a local or official (e.g. tourist office) about the local rules in Cambodia.
Drone Laws Vietnam
In Vietnam, you need a permit to fly a drone. This must be requested from the Ministry of Defence. According to our research, however, no one has yet been able to reach a contact person and thus receive approval. In addition, the permit is probably only valid for one day and should cost several thousand dollars. Better leave the drone at home in Vietnam, there can be big trouble!
Drone Laws Indonesia
There are currently no bans on drones in Indonesia either. Neither are valid laws that dictate which regulations must be complied with. Only the flight altitude of 150m and flying in uncontrolled airspace (not in the vicinity of airports) must be observed. On the other hand, if you want to film, you supposedly need a permit, which you have to apply for at least 14 days before the flight date. Whether this is checked is another matter.
Drone Laws Malaysia
Malaysia has now tightened the laws a bit, but has not yet given any exact regulations. In general, however, you shouldn’t have any problems as long as you stick to the standard rules already mentioned.
- The flight altitude of 120m must not be exceeded
- 4.5 km distance from airports must be observed
- From 20 kg a permit is required
- At least 30m away from other people
- Flying is prohibited from 1,000 people (crowds).
Drone Laws Mexico
Drones under 2 kilograms take-off weight can be flown without permission from the AA. If commercial activities take place, liability insurance is necessary. Drones may be flown up to 400 feet altitude (120m) and 4,500 feet in line of sight.
Drohnen Gesetze EU
All countries in the EU have now unified their drone laws, making it extremely easy for amateur pilots to legally fly drones in Spain, Italy and many other countries.
In general, there are only a few regulations to be observed for drones under 250 grams, but drone insurance is one of them.
Note: All information has been thoroughly researched. In any case, always find out more on an official government websites or at you destination!
Launch Drone in a New Country – Preparation
If you want to start your drone in a new country, you should consider a few things before the first flight.
Calibrate Compass
In general, it is usually sufficient to calibrate the compass once, after which it is set correctly for a long time and no further action is required. The situation is different, however, if you fly to another country, since the values can differ greatly here. If you fly from Europe to Asia or America, a calibration of the compass is essential to minimize safety hazards.
Check Your Environment
It is also fundamentally important that you familiarize yourself with the area before your first flight in a new country. Masts, airports, or restricted military areas can literally be around every corner and before you know it, you’re in for a lot of trouble. Therefore, find out about important state institutions, airports, etc. and where they are located.
Tip: Flying drones may be prohibited, especially on beaches or in national parks, as these often belong to the navy and are therefore military areas. You should also avoid temples, royal palaces and other government buildings. Drone pilots have encountered the most problems when flying in capital cities (no matter where in the world), but few problems have been reported in rural areas.
Proper Filming with the Drone
Although modern drones make it very easy to create video recordings, you should still be a little concerned with the manual settings and the right setup or image section when filming with the drone. Here are a few of our tips to help you take good pictures when traveling with a drone.
The video settings & flight modes
If you are still a complete beginner, then simply film in automatic mode for the first time until you are comfortable with the drone. Then deal with the manual image settings of your drone. A safe flight and control of the aircraft always comes first!
You should test the flight modes that your drone may offer in an open area beforehand. This is the only way you can say exactly how the drone will behave later.
Filming in D-Log
In photography, there are the RAW images, which store a lot more data in the image and allow for a lot more processing in post-processing. The whole thing is also available when filming, but it works a little differently there. Here the image is taken much flatter. If you then look at the recordings on the PC, they look colorless. That sounds bad at first, but it’s not. The result after the color value correction is in fact much better than if you had just filmed in AUTO. With D-Log you can also create the typical cinematic look in your videos.
The exposure time
The exposure time is fundamentally important so that you can get the best quality from your recordings. It is generally recommended to set twice the frame rate as the exposure time. For example, if you record in 4K with 30fps, the exposure time should always be twice that, i.e. 1/60s. For recordings with 50fps that would be 1/100s. However, in order to be able to record such a “long exposure time” of 1/100 seconds, you need an ND filter.
The ISO value
As in photography, the ISO value is a very important point with which you can quickly destroy your shots. Just always remember: the lower the ISO value, the better! During the day you should only use the smallest value (usually 100) anyway, as this will produce the best quality. At dusk you can and must also raise it a little. Every drone is different, so it takes some practice to determine the maximum ISO value.
The white balance
As a beginner, we advise you to leave the white balance in automatic mode for the first time and only deal with it gradually. With the DJI Mavic, for example, you will see the new color correction immediately, so you can see whether the whole thing fits or not. On the PC, however, things can look a little different afterwards. Only make changes to the white balance once you have gained experience with the camera.
Cinematic camera rides!
Drone videos only look professional if you manage to capture the image completely smoothly. The image flow should be as harmonious and fluid as possible, but not choppy. There are also extremely fast “action flights”, but even there the camera is smooth or not moved at all. It is particularly important that you do not pan the camera or the aircraft too quickly. In the following video you can see some very smooth cinematic shots but also 1-2 scenes where we made a small mistake…
We hope that our guide on traveling with a drone was able to help you a little. As you have surely noticed, the topic is extremely extensive. The most important thing is that you practice a lot and familiarize yourself with your drone. This is the only way you can gain experience and the necessary confidence in handling the drone.
Do you have any additional information about traveling with drones? We look forward to any comments and additions in the comments section below!