I'll be heading to Paris in a few weeks and will be carrying a DSLR and a couple lens in a camera backpack (about the size of a regular school backpack...just not collapsible due to several small padded compartments). Does anyone know the size restrictions of the required baggage check at the Louvre? I can't check my camera gear, but don't want to be stuck carrying my DSLR around my neck and hand-carrying an extra lens as well, while visiting the museum. Thanks in advance!
Posted by
211 posts
From the museum website: "Checkrooms -- Visitors with tickets or passes may use the museum's checkrooms (coats and luggage) free of charge. Checked objects must be picked up the same day, before museum closing time. For safety and comfort reasons, voluminous bags are not allowed inside the museum galleries (Visitor regulations, Article 8). Visitors are therefore advised not to bring large bags or cases to the Louvre."
Posted by
OP
11 posts
That doesn't really answer the question, unfortunately. How are they defining "voluminous" or "large"? I can't hand-carry $5,000 worth of camera equipment at the last minute. Can someone who has been to the Louvre recently please advise whether reasonable-sized backpacks (not carry-on size bags....) are allowed to be worn inside? For reference purposes, here are the measurements of my camera backpack: 15 x 12.2 x 7 inches.
Posted by
Eugene, Oregon...Formerly Ventura, CA
2262 posts
I can't check my camera gear, but don't want to be stuck carrying my DSLR around my neck
I'm not sure there is a good answer to give here. I would suggest simply calling the Museum and explaining the problem.
Posted by
Virginia, USA
5847 posts
Just a warning. A number of museums will make you check a backpack, but not necessarily a shoulder bag of the same size. Some will let you carry a backpack, but you aren't allowed to wear it on your back. They are concerned that you may bump into one of the pieces of art with your back.
I don't carry a backpack ... I have just seen people carrying backpacks (even small ones) being asked to check at a number of museums (and I don't remember whether they did this at the Louvre or not).
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32350 posts
You shouldn't have any problems checking a Backpack of the size you mentioned. I assume you're planning on taking the DSLR with you into the Museum? If so I'd suggest using one medium range zoom as that should cover most situations and you shouldn't have to hand-carry another Lens. I primarily use a 24-105 for that, and it's always worked well.
Posted by
OP
11 posts
Ken: That's exactly the lens I plan to bring with me! :-)
Laura: Thanks for the heads-up! I think I'll bring an extra shoulder bag just in case.