Hmm, I’ve had a different experience vs the “NDs are a must” angle (respectfully). For a week trip where you’re trying not to overpack, I’d prioritize *safety + reliability* stuff first, and treat ND as a “nice to have” unless you KNOW you’re doing lots of bright-midday cinematic video.

What’s saved my butt more times than filters: 1) spare props (duh, but seriously), and 2) a small landing pad. I used to think landing pads were kinda goofy… then I landed on sand/gravel a couple times and heard that nasty grit sound near the gimbal. Since then I pack a simple PGYTECH Landing Pad Pro 55cm and I’m way happier, no complaints.

Charging-wise, I actually skip the hub sometimes and bring one good PD brick + short cables. Bonus: you can top up your phone too, and it’s one less DJI-specific thing to forget. Something like UGREEN Nexode 65W USB-C GaN Charger works well. Also throw in a couple Anker PowerLine III USB-C to USB-C Cable 0.9m (short cables are clutch in hotels/airports).

For carry, I’m team sling most trips, but I add a tiny hard shell inside for crush protection. Like a lightweight camera insert + a rigid cap over the gimbal area… basically best of both worlds. Anyway yeah, if I had to cut something, ND filters are the first thing I’d leave behind. gl!

In my experience, the “must-haves” are the boring reliability stuff, then you pick your carry style.

Option A: slim pouch/sling + minimalist inserts → cheapest/lightest, fast access, but less crush protection (I do this if I’m not tossing it in checked luggage). Option B: small hard case → heavier/bulkier, but it’s basically stress-free in backpacks/overhead bins.

ND filters: worth it if you’ll shoot midday video; if you’re mostly stills or golden hour, I’d skip and save cash.

Props: always 1 spare set + a tiny screwdriver.

Charging: a compact 65W-ish USB-C PD brick + a short cable beats lugging a big hub, imo. I’ve used UGREEN Nexode 65W USB C GaN Charger 3-Port for years without drama. cheers

Late to the party but I gotta chime in on the controller situation. If you're using the RC 2, dont sleep on a lanyard. It sounds like a small thing but holding that remote for a week straight gets old fast. I usually go for the DJI RC 2 Lanyard and Bracket over the cheaper generic ones because the fit is just better. Also on filters... if you want to save some cash without losing quality, K&F Concept DJI Air 3 ND Filter Set 6-Pack is a solid rival to the more expensive brands. Theyre basically half the price and I havent seen any color shifting on my Air 3 shots. Lastly, ditch the bulky cases and grab a Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L. It fits the Air 3, controller, and two extra batteries perfectly without the weight of a hard case. Just my two cents from a few years of traveling with these birds.

Saved for later, ty!

Seconding the ND + spare props call — that stuff saves trips. I’d add 2 boring-but-CRITICAL things: a fast card + a decent PD charger. I’ve had flights basically ruined by slow/iffy cards… so I stick with SanDisk Extreme PRO microSDXC UHS-I 256GB V30 U3 A2 and a small brick like Anker 737 Charger (GaNPrime) 120W (plus a short USB-C cable). Hard case only if you’re checking a bag, imo

For your situation, I’d do: **Option A (ND filters)** vs **B (no ND)** → ND’s are worth it if you’ll shoot video in bright sun; I like Freewell or PolarPro and just carry a small set. **Props**: always pack a spare set… they weigh nothing and save trips. **Charging**: a small multi-battery hub is clutch in hotels/airports. **Carry**: hard case = max protection but bulky; sling = faster, lighter, but be careful with pressure on gimbal. gl!

Been using this for years, no complaints