Is a standard external hard drive safe to carry in a camera bag while traveling?
Asked 3/25/2014
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I want to bring an external drive on trips of two weeks or more so I can back up my photos. I was considering a compact portable drive like the WD My Passport Ultra, but I also see “rugged” external drives with extra rubber protection.
For normal travel in a camera bag—trains, planes, cars, walking around—are standard portable external hard drives durable enough if handled reasonably carefully, perhaps in a padded case? Or is a rugged drive or SSD a much better choice?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
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Hard drives are generally pretty durable unless they are on. The problem with hard drives is that the drive must spin at high speed and in very close proximity to a read/write head. Since spinning creates gyroscopic forces, moving the drive while it is running can result in what is known as a platter collision. The read/write head impacts the platter and destroys it.
When off however, as long as they are protected from extremes in temperature and humidity, they are quite durable.
Originally by user11392. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11392
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A standard portable external hard drive is usually fine for normal travel if handled carefully, especially a 2.5-inch portable model. Those are much more shock-resistant than larger 3.5-inch desktop-style external drives, which are heavier, need separate power, and are less suited to being moved around.
The main risk with a traditional HDD is while it is running. Because the platters are spinning and the read/write heads are very close to the surface, a hard bump or movement during use can cause damage. When the drive is powered off, it is generally much more durable as long as you avoid heat, moisture, and major impacts.
A ruggedized drive can reduce the chance of damage from bumps, but it does not guarantee safety. An SSD is the more durable travel option because it has no spinning parts, so it is far less vulnerable to movement and shock.
Whatever you choose, don’t rely on a single copy. Keep a second backup if possible, or keep the originals on memory cards until you’re home.
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