Having all the gear you need with you, without packing too much extraneous stuff can sometimes be a little bit of trial and error. However, using a simple, printable FPV Checklist for different event types and situations can help you stay organized.[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”1524″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Why use an FPV Checklist?
For the beginner pilot, using a printable, portable FPV checklist to help keep organization at the maximum during the founding stages makes quite a bit of sense. These can be sitting on the workbench as gentle reminders of what you may need for a particular situation or as a check to make sure you have all your gear.
Equally important for the seasoned pilot, FPV checklists can serve as a reference for doing a complete walk through of your gear to make sure everything is functional. Furthermore, it can serve as a place to jot notes of things that happened during a flight session.
Prepping for an FPV Session
To begin with, you are going to want to do is to ensure that all your models are ready to go out and fly. Properly going over your gear will result in a relatively worry free experience. As a pilot, you are going to be eager to get out and get flying. Although much of these checks seem like they may be a waste of time, or you are in a hurry, and don’t check these things, it may result in some issues during the session.. However, by doing these checks each time before heading out, you can address any problems before they hinder your fun! I, and fellow pilots that I fly with, have had to learn this lesson the hard way when a flight session gets cut short due to something that should have been caught before leaving the workbench.
Below are some things you will want to check:
General Session FPV Checklist
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Check your model
- Propellers are removed from model
- Inspect for flight hindering damage
- Frame damage
- Standoff damage
- Wire wear
- Broken zip ties
- Battery strap wear
- Check screws and nuts, tighten when needed
- Model power up initialization
- Motor test
- Motors spin freely
- Motor direction check
Charge Batteries
- Transmitter Batteries
- Model Batteries
- Goggle Batteries
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Transmitter Communication
- Transmitter power check
- Range check
- Telemetry check (if applicable)
- Check receiver antennas on model
- Check switches for functions
FPV System Functionality
- Goggles power up and function
- Channel check
- Power check
- Camera focus
- Transmit check
- Check antennas on goggles and model
Propellers
- Install propellers
- Tighten propeller nuts
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]It is also a good idea to check your gear when you get home from a session in order to get the repairs out of the way and focus on the next session![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_single_image image=”1504″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
The Boons and Banes of Portability
When I first heard of multirotors, one of the first things I did was to go out to a FPV group meetup. I was especially enthralled by the portability of the equipment, and since then, things have only gotten better and smaller. So much so, that sometimes it can be an interesting prospect deciding what you may need for a particular situation. Some pilots always bring too much gear, then spend the afternoon complaining about having to lug it all around when moving from what spot to the next. Conversely, others never bring enough, and end up leaving early or sitting on sidelines complaining that they can’t fly. Personally, I like to stay as mobile as possible, while bringing the essentials to ensure I stay in the air.
Carrying your Gear
In truth, when you are just getting started, one of the best investments you can make is a backpack. This will be the one item that you will want to put some thought into in order to be able to carry all the gear you need. Many options exist, from basic hiking backpacks, to designs created specifically for drones and multirotors. In truth, spending a lot of money, doesn’t always mean you get the best stuff that works best for you. Basically, do some research and shop around! If you make a decision, and it doesn’t work for you, return it and try again.
Having that backpack with you will allow you to move about with a fair amount of ease from one flying location to another. That becomes extremely important when heading out for a FPV group meetup or a freestyle session. You will have to put some thought into what you are going to put into it that will keep you in the air with minimal disruptions. First things first, for any FPV multirotor session, you are going to need the basic essential gear, so let’s take a look at those:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_single_image image=”1505″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
The Basics
First things first, for any FPV multirotor session, you are going to need the basic essential gear, so let’s take a look at those:
- FPV Model (multirotor or fixed wing)
- Transmitter
- Goggles w/ Accessories
- Model Batteries
These are the minimal amount of things that you will need to enjoy an FPV session. Undoubtedly, the first thing going through your head is “What if I break something?” We’re about to get into that. But keep in mind, if you’re out for a quick session, this will be the minimum of gear that you need to carry with you. Indeed, if I know I’m only going to get a few packs in, this is truly all that I will bring. Beyond that, we will have to look at each type of FPV flying session a little differently to sort out what you will need to bring with you.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
FPV Group Session
Flying with a group can be great way to meet others in your area with a passion for FPV. Figuring out what you will need to bring can sometimes be a collective experience among you and your group. Consequently, knowing a few things about where you will be flying will answer some of the questions about what you may need to bring. Will there be a place to charge batteries? What kind of FPV session is it? Is someone responsible for bringing gates? Knowing these things can help you decide what will be necessary.
Let’s look at what you will need on an individual level:
Group Session FPV Checklist
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- FPV Model (or multiple)
- Transmitter
- Goggles w/ Accessories
- Model Batteries
- Extra Propellers
- Extra Multirotor Arms
- Spare VTX Antennas
- Spare Camera Lenses
- Zip Ties
- Tools
- Side Cutters
- Nut Drivers
- Hex Drivers
- Prop Tool
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- Hardware (Small Selection)
- Prop Nuts
- M3 Screws (at least 2 of every size)
- Standoffs
- Nylon Standoffs
- Electrical Tape
- Portable Soldering Iron
- Battery Straps
- Action Camera (GoPro)
- Laptop, Tablet, or Phone for Tuning (Optional if using LUA or Betaflight/FlightOne OSD)
- Optional Items
- Chair – A folding camp chair works great
- Tent or Canopy – Keep the sun off you and your gear
- Battery Charger
- Snacks and Beverages
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Working Together as a Group
As a group, you may want to put together a course of gates and flags, such as the ones here: Drone Racing Practice Kit. Undeniably, going in as a group will lessen the individual cost of a larger package, and everyone in your group will benefit from the practice! Otherwise, you can put together some gates from PVC pipe and pool noodles. Your group will need to sort out who will be taking care of the gates in the off time, as well as making them available to the group. Also, when flying in a group, there are a few things you need to consider:
- Decide on Video Channels
- Range Check both Video and Radio
- This I usually do on the first battery, just exploring the area and finding the spots that cause issues.
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Freestyle Session
Undeniably, one of the hallmarks of a freestyle session is finding awesome spots in which to ply your craft. However, these might not always be a park, or cool downtown office building. Sometimes these may be someplace up in the mountains that you will have to hike to, or an abandoned building that will require some exploration. I’ve been to a few “Bandos” in the last few years, and most of them can be a little sketchy. One of the first things I do is explore the structure to figure out what’s safe, and what isn’t. Above all, you want to make sure you come home intact. In addition to packing the gear listed above, make sure you bring a few extras.
Freestyle Prep FPV Checklist
- Flashlight
- First Aid Kit
- Bandanna (to cover mouth and nose from dust)
- Extra water and snacks
- Phone
- You can pre-download maps in Google Maps that can be accessed outside of cell range. I always do this just in case something happens.
Generally, you want to be as mobile as possible, so things that I usually don’t bring with me are optional things that I can really do without, such as my battery charger and laptop. These things just weigh me down, and make it more difficult to move about. Also, do yourself a favor and let someone know where you are going, and when to expect you back. You never know what might happen, and this way, someone will have your back. Living and flying in Arizona, I tend to over-prepare a little for trips, as the environment here can be quite harsh.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_single_image image=”1507″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
FPV Race Preparation
Race day is coming! What to bring! How to set up your gear? Where is the venue? Are there tables present or will they be provided? Are you going to need a shady spot (a must here in Arizona)? Will there be vendors on site? Obviously, there are a couple questions you will want to answer first. The answers to these questions will certainly guide you toward prepping for race day. Racing can often last for a few days, and just about anything can happen. If you are going out of town for a race, you may want to pack up as much gear as you can, that way you have spares readily available. Given these points, there are a few things you may want to consider:
Race Prep FPV Checklist
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- Spare multirotors / wing models
- Crash kits for each model
- Arms
- Cameras and Lenses
- VTX’s
- Receivers
- Flight Controllers
- ESC’s
- Motors
- Zip Ties
- Electrical Tape
- Heat Shrink
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- Tools
- Soldering Iron
- Charger
- Food and Drink
- Spare Clothing
- Laptop / Tablet
- Chair
- Tent or Canopy
- Portable Table (workbench)
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Keeping your Models in the Air
Unquestionably, crash kits work best if everything is as pre-made as possible. Heat shrink should be precut. Components should be prepped to swap in quickly. On the whole, you really shouldn’t need to spend time focusing a camera, or cutting and tinning wires. Basically, the less time you spend repairing your models, the more time you spend in the air. If there are vendors on site, and you run out of your crash kit components, at least you may have an option to get back up in the air.
Also, when it comes to your spare models, remember that consistency is key. In order to succeed, you want to make sure that you are 100% comfortable with each model that you are going to be putting out on the race track. Many pilots build multiple backups of their main model, using the exact same components, built the same exact way, and tuned identically. This makes for a no surprises situation if you have to resort to one of those backups. Make sure you run through the flight prep checklist above on all your models before you leave home.
Be Prepared
Certainly, doing your homework will be a key component to a successful race event.
- Maintain a copy of the rules on you at all times.
- Make sure you know what video channel you are assigned.
- Know when you can practice and for how long. Take advantage of the time.
- Never, ever plug in without letting everyone know.
- Know when you are flying and be ready. You don’t want to hold everyone else up.
FPV Racing has been building over the last few years, and it’s becoming a serious affair. With this in mind, practicing these things will keep you in everyone’s good graces, and make for a successful event for you and the other pilots. Everyone’s heard it I’m sure; proper planning prevents poor performance![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”1503″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Traveling with FPV Multirotors
When going on vacation, obviously you are going to want to take your multirotor equipment with you. Sometimes that can seem like a daunting task with all the regulations imposed by both the FAA and even the airlines themselves. Take a deep breath though, as navigating this is honestly easier than it seems.
Lithium Polymer Batteries and Air Travel
To begin with, the most dangerous single piece of gear that you have are your LiPo batteries. These have to be prepped a certain way and according to the FAA’s Batteries Carried by Airline Passengers FAQ. You will also want to reference the Pack Safe: Lithium Ion and Lithium Metal Batteries Guide. My suggestion, as well as my practice, is to print off a copy of the FAQ, and store it either with your boarding pass documents, or with your batteries, so that it can be referenced by anyone who has some questions about the massive amount of batteries you are bringing with you. There are a few key points here that we will discuss.
How Many Batteries can I Bring?
First is the limitation (or lack thereof) of the amount of batteries that you can carry with you. The FAA rates batteries in terms of Watt Hours. As a passenger, you are allowed to carry an unlimited amount of batteries under 100Wh each. To calculate watt hours, you take the voltage of the battery pack and multiply it times the Amp Hours. To explain:
Voltage x Amp hours = Watt hours or V x Ah = Wh
Since our batteries are generally measured in milliamp hours, (1000 milliamp hours = 1 amp hour), we need to move a decimal. For example, a 1300 mAh battery can be converted to 1.3 Ah. Similarly, an 850 mAh will become .85 Ah. If you want to incorporate this into the calculation, you can do so like this.
Voltage(Milliamp hours/1000) = Wh or V(mAh/1000)=Wh
As an illustration, using a 4s battery, we get: 14.8v(1300/1000) = 19.24 Wh. For a 6s battery: 22.2v(1300/1000) = 28.86 Wh. Any battery between 100Wh and 160Wh, you are limited to just two spare batteries. Batteries over 160Wh are prohibited.
Prepping Batteries
Further, the FAA requires that terminals on batteries need to be protected from shorting, meaning that if something metal were to come into contact with a battery terminal, a short must not be created. To do this, you can tape over your battery terminals, place each battery in a separate plastic bag, or keep the batteries in their retail packaging. It is also a good practice to put your batteries to storage charge.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”1506″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Beyond referencing the FAA documents, I also highly recommend you check the website of the airline you are flying to be able to comply with their policies. As an example, while the FAA doesn’t limit the number of batteries under 100Wh, Southwest Airlines does limit the amount to 20 spare batteries. You want to be able to avoid any issues like this so that you are able to travel to your destination without ending up in the “Room”. You may also want to reference the regulations at your destination if you are traveling internationally. Other countries might have restrictions you will need to be aware of.
Packing Gear for Security
Moreover, reference the FAA’s Pack Safe as well as TSA’s What Can I Bring? webpages in order to determine what will need to be in your carry-on luggage vs. your checked luggage. For one thing, batteries need to be in carry-on. To keep things simple though, my recommendation is this: If it is sharp, pointy, or it can cut, it needs to go into your checked baggage. Obviously, his means tools and propellers. While you might be able to skate past in some circumstances, by adhering to this simple rule, you will save yourself from potential headaches.
Traveling FPV Checklist
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Carry-on Baggage
- FAA Documents
- Batteries Carried by Airline Passengers FAQ
- Pack Safe: Lithium Ion and Lithium Metal Batteries Guide
- Airline Specific Documents
- Lithium Ion Battery Policy
- FPV Models (Propellers Removed)
- Transmitter
- Goggles w/ Accessories
- Model Batteries – Protected from short circuit and set to storage charge
- Spare VTX Antennas
- Spare Camera Lenses
- Electrical Tape
- Battery Straps
- Action Camera (GoPro)
- Laptop, Tablet, or Phone for Tuning (Optional if using LUA or Betaflight/FlightOne OSD)
- Battery Charger
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Checked Baggage
- Extra Propellers
- Extra Multirotor Arms
- Zip Ties
- Tools
- Side Cutters
- Nut Drivers
- Hex Drivers
- Prop Tool
- Hardware (Small Selection)
- Prop Nuts
- M3 Screws (at least 2 of every size)
- Standoffs
- Nylon Standoffs
- Portable Soldering Iron
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FPV Checklists
Down below, you will find downloadable versions of the FPV checklists, with the information compressed for portability. Feel free to print these off to use, Also, share them among your friends and fellow pilots! Hopefully they will help in guiding you when you go out flying. When you click on these, they will open up in a separate tab.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”1546″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.getfpv.com/learn/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Checklist-FPV-Session.pdf”][vc_column_text]
FPV Pre-Flight Preparation Checklist
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FPV Racing Checklist
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FPV Freestyle Checklist
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FPV Group Session Checklist
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FPV Traveling Checklist
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Awesome article for us newbies! Much appreciated!
Handy article, thanks!
Thanks guys. Info I will Need while flying to Japan
Great article, extremely helpful suggestions. Been flying for 2 years and I still picked up quite a few useful tips for the field.
Glad I could pass some knowledge on! Thanks for the feedback!
Some great info that can be carried over to fixed-wing FPV as well! Thanks!!
Absolutely! I use these for my fixed wing escapades myself!
Don’t forget the goggles!
You’ve got to like checklists. Great lists!
Very good Article .. I feel that a Checklist is Great to have in this Hobby or any other Hobby , Sport . I never knew about these Articles and plan on Reading the others . I would like to Say Thanks for all that GetFPV does for the Hobby / Sport …
I am printing out SOOO many of these. I am the worst about either over-packing for under-packing.
I will be using the travel information you listed here. i really like you telling me to print the FAQ and rule and place it in the bag with the batteries. Brilliant ! ! ! !
Great information.
Thanks for all the info, Checklists can be very helpful
Great reads. Thanks GetFPV.
Dear Mr. Cook
I know sometimes it is a pain in the ass to write an article especially when you have other responsibilities. I also know that it is uplifting to see the light go on in someone’s head meaning that they get it. I just wanted to say thank you, your travel article is just what I needed to know. Mid-May I will end up in Naples FL and if I have time I will stop by the shop.
Thank you, David Farmer
David, you are quite welcome! I enjoy sharing my little bit of knowledge with others, especially if it helps. Unfortunately, I am based in Arizona, so I will not get the pleasure of meeting you in Florida. If you’re ever in Phoenix though, hit me up and we will go rip a few packs!
This is a great article. I am a check list guy Zander this is great.
Great article, I have learned a lot!
Good advice man. Thanks.