If you use serious photo gear, look for a rugged bag with dividers to keep items from bumping each other.

Respected brands include Domke, LowePro, Tamrac, Billingham, and Tenba. Many photojournalists prefer Domke's tough canvas bags that resist rain and snow; they have movable dividers and abundant pockets. Many nylon LowePro bags offer as much durability and flexibility.

Several brands of bags offer "pop-off" transparent film pouches. Use them at U.S. airport security checkpoints, where you can ask for hand inspection of your film and avoid X-rays.

Lead-lined bags, available from photo retailers, will weaken the x-radiation on film and reduce potential harm.

However, the effectiveness of any particular lead bag depends on the intensity and electric potential of the X-ray generator, the lead's thickness, and the film speed.

If you use a lead bag, check with the manufacturer for the effectiveness of their products with airport X-ray devices. The inspection process may be triggered by a lead bag on the scanner screen. In a typical airport surveillance situation, the baggage may be pulled aside for additional inspection.

Source: Eastman Kodak Company