Gear Temptation - How I Overcame the Urge to Buy New Camera Gear Before a Big Trip

Written By Julio Cesar Fausto

As my upcoming photography trip to Denmark approached, I found myself feeling an increasing urge to buy new camera gear. I’ve been quite close to pulling the “pay” button trigger a couple of times during these last few weeks and spending thousands of euros on new gear that would not make me a better photographer. Gear temptation before a trip is real—especially when you're already excited and want the best possible results.

Here’s what I did that helped me save money and establish the right mindset for this trip.

It all started like this…

First I thought my current backpack wouldn’t be enough. I immediately jumped on Youtube or Instagram to check what my favourite photographers were using and started looking for similar bags to buy. Next, came the feeling that I may not had all the lenses I’d need. What if I want to shoot birds? My current lens can do it, but it is not really a telephoto lens. Following that, I caught myself putting a flagship camera body and an expensive lens from a complete different system to a shopping cart. Wait, do I really need that?

In none of these situations I felt really confident that the purchase was necessary. I always had something stopping me to complete the purchase. I’d always close the app or website and wait for the next day. I’m happy that this happened, as this was what actually stopped me from buying unnecessary equipment. None of that would actually make any difference in my photography. It would only cause me buyers remorse, that is for sure.

Recognising the Source of the Temptation

Stopping to recognise the source of this temptation was the first step I took.

I asked myself these three questions:

  1. What exactly am I afraid of? (e.g., “I’m scared my current camera won’t deliver the images I want.”)

  2. Is this fear based on past experience, or imagined shortcomings?

  3. Do I feel this way every time I have a trip coming up?

After reflecting on the answers for these questions, I realised it wasn’t about the gear—it was more about confidence. I was afraid that my current setup wouldn’t be “good enough” to capture what I was envisioning in my head and was projecting my insecurities into something I could control—like buying new camera gear or tools.

Assess Your Current Setup

Knowing that my urge was more emotional than based on a need, I did an assessment of my current gear using the following questions:

  • Is my current camera limiting me in any specific, measurable ways (like poor low-light performance, slow autofocus, or weight)?

  • Have I missed shots on recent trips due to the gear—or was it more about planning, timing, or technique?

Here’s what I’m working with at the moment (Disclosure: The links are affiliated links):

After thinking about the answer for the two questions I reached the concluding that I have already a solid setup that covers wide landscapes, macro-ish closeups, birds in the distance, and even long exposure work. My gear wasn’t a limitation—it was my mindset.

Think in Terms of Cost per Use

If at this point you’re not yet convinced (I already was). Here’s another step you can take.

Try asking yourself the following:

  • How often will I use this new system after the trip?

  • Will I need to invest more (extra lenses, accessories)?

  • What would that same amount of money get me if I put it into travel or workshops instead?

It is common sense that investing in skills and experiences gives a bigger boost than new gear.

Name the Anxiety

Here’s a more psychological step you can also add to your thought process.

Say out loud (or write down) the sentence:

"I feel like I need a new camera because I’m afraid that _______."

Often, it's something like:

  • “I’ll come back with images I’m not proud of.”

  • “I won’t feel like a real photographer without the newest gear.”

  • “This trip has to be special and the gear makes it feel more special.”

Then ask yourself: Is this belief true? Is there a better way to deal with that fear? It’s very common to get this wave of “I need to upgrade before I go”—because my upcoming trip feels important, and new gear feels like insurance for better results.

Often, such reflection will help you to find the right answer you’re looking for. It definitely helped me.

“Let the camera be a tool—not a worry”

A New Approach: Thoughtful Planning Over New Gear

Instead of spending a significant amount of money on new gear, I decided to invest time in preparation. I did some thinking and built a workflow and checklist to help me stay focused, organized, and inspired during the trip. Here’s what it looks like:

🔌 Gear Prep (Before Leaving)

  • Clean camera sensor + lenses

  • Format memory cards

  • Charge all batteries

  • Pack extra batteries + charger

  • Check/Clean tripod + quick release plates

  • Check camera setup

🎒 Packing List

  • Camera bodies

  • Lenses

  • Video/Audio gear

  • Filters

  • Lens cloth / blower

  • SD cards

  • Tripods

  • Rain covers

  • Remote shutter

Daily Shooting Ideas

☀️ Morning

  • Sunrise landscapes

  • Golden hour shots

  • Use wide-angle + filters

🌤 Midday

  • Macro/nature closeups

  • Cityscapes

  • Explore/scout new locations

🌇 Evening

  • Sunset compositions

  • Reflections, long exposures

  • Telephoto compression

  • Blue hour shots

🌌 Night

  • City lights

  • Reflections

  • Stars / Milky way

  • Tripod + wide lens + high ISO (Landscapes)

  • Light Painting

Shot List Ideas

  • Wide scenic landscape with interesting foreground

  • Road through nature (leading lines)

  • Windmills / lighthouses / iconic structures

  • Reflections (lakes, wet roads)

  • Birds or wildlife (zoom lens or telephoto if you have one)

  • Close-ups: flowers, textures, details

  • Weather mood: fog, rain, sun rays

  • One-lens challenge (creative constraint day)

Creative Prompts

  • 5 shots from the same spot (wide to detail)

  • Focus on one color for a series

  • Shoot only shadows or light for a day

  • Add a person in frame for scale

Conclusion: Clarity Wins Over Consumption

I almost let gear anxiety lead me to a costly decision. But through reflection, planning, and understanding the strength of my current setup, and my own limitations I chose creativity over consumption. Now, I’m heading to Denmark not with a new camera, but with a clear mind and a solid plan in place.

Sometimes the best upgrade isn’t gear—it’s perspective.

Let me know if you’ve ever faced a similar gear temptation before a big trip. What did you do? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your story!

Julio Cesar Fausto
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Essential Equipment for Beginner Photographers