Camera insurance recommendations

[Anton Solovyev]

I am thinking about upgrading to a better camera. An immediate thought that goes with it is how to not ruin a $500 piece of equipment on the first trip. I spent most time in Southern Utah (desert environment) where sand is omnipresent.

I have killed 4-5 cameras in the last few years, some just got sand inside and lens stopped moving, a couple I accidentally went swimming with (while canyoneering). Even shock-and-waterproof Canon Powershot D10 died after a year of use (fortunately replaced under warranty).

I am prepared to treat a nice camera better than my previous point-and-shoots, but still I would like to buy some sort of insurance for it. What would people recommend?

[Matthew Marasco]

I've had a positive experience with the Mack warranty on my Sony NEX-5. I took a spill with it coming down Algonquin Peak in the Adirondacks last winter. I had a replacement in my hands three weeks after sending the smashed one in.

[Mike In Socal]

That's cool. I never new about Mack Warranty. I'll have to check them out. If you have homeowner's insurance, you can also call your insurer to see if there is an add-on for your camera equipment – make sure you ask what will or will not be covered.

Mike

[Jeff DuBois]

I get mine from best buy and get their accidental warranty. You can chose 1 2 or 3 years and every thing is covered. If it cost more to fix than replace you get to pick out a similar item for free, then you just pay for the warranty again. I've killed 2 cameras and probably five laptops, all covered and replaced just have to pay for the warranty again.

[Eric Lundquist]

I purchased a SquareTrade warranty when I bought my NEX a few years ago. Never had the need to use it but their online reviews are pretty good.

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