In field backup without a computer: I’m looking for a way to back up my photos when on a long, extended trip that doesn’t require a computer. I’m old and trying to lighten the load.

61jhawk Loc: Tarrant County, Texas

I’m looking for a way to back up my photos when on a long, extended trip that doesn’t require a computer. I’m old and trying to lighten the load. Does anyone know of a portable SSD device that has a slot for an SD card and internal power? I searched B&H and couldn’t find anything. Any other suggestions would be most welcome.

luvmypets Loc: Born & raised Texan living in Fayetteville NC

This isn't SSD but it does have an SD slot.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1256452-REG/gnarbox_gnar128v1_gnarbox_128gb_external_storage.html

Dodie

61jhawk Loc: Tarrant County, Texas

luvmypets wrote:

This isn't SSD but it does have an SD slot.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1256452-REG/gnarbox_gnar128v1_gnarbox_128gb_external_storage.html

Dodie

Thanks, looks interesting but sometimes need something a little larger for long trips. I appreciate the suggestion.

bsprague Loc: Lacey, WA, USA

As much as it seems like there should be a lot of choices for this type of device, there is not.

Whenever this comes up here on UHH, the usual low budget solution is to buy a collection of SD cards so that you can put a fresh one in your camera on a periodic basis. The idea is that in the unlikely event that one does fail, you only loose a portion of your image files.

Theoretically you could get a very big micro SD card for your phone and a card reader that would plug into your phone's USB port and copy files with a files app on your phone. I've not tried it, but maybe someone else has.

Just Fred Loc: Darwin's Waiting Room

I know everyone's wants and needs are different, but I find a lightweight laptop, like a used 11" MacBook Air not only serves as a backup mechanism, but also gives me a slideshow/viewer of my images, lets me get online and share photos, and the shoulder bag I carry it in also lets me tote cables, filters, lens cleaners, and a host of accessories.

A refurbished (= warranty) Macbook Air can be had at Amazon for $219. I have two.

They weigh 2.3 pounds. I also carry a USB-to-SD card reader

On my trip to Greece earlier this year, I would come back to my ship, and in my stateroom, review the photos I took during the day.

61jhawk Loc: Tarrant County, Texas

Thanks, that's what I did on my last trip, an 11 day cruise to Alaska. I used a different sd card each day and then worried about losing one.

61jhawk Loc: Tarrant County, Texas

Thanks for the suggestion. I used a notepad as an intermediary to transfer files from my sd card to a flash drive on my last trip. Just trying to eliminate as much stuff and weight as possible.

R.G. Loc: Scotland

bsprague wrote:

....the usual low budget solution is to buy a collection of SD cards so that you can put a fresh one in your camera on a periodic basis....

61jhawk Loc: Tarrant County, Texas

Thanks, that's what I do anyway. I'm looking for a backup to that. I appreciate the comeback.

rgrenaderphoto Loc: Hollywood, CA

luvmypets wrote:

This isn't SSD but it does have an SD slot.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1256452-REG/gnarbox_gnar128v1_gnarbox_128gb_external_storage.html

Dodie

The Gnarbox doesn't have enough storage to be practical. It is really intended for in-the-field workgroup sharing. Look around and see if you can find a LaCie Boss Rugged (SSD) drive.

61jhawk Loc: Tarrant County, Texas

Just FYI, I searched the internet for Gnarbox. They appear to have gone out of business at the first of this year. There are several articles about this.

pmorin Loc: Huntington Beach, Palm Springs

61jhawk wrote:

I’m looking for a way to back up my photos when on a long, extended trip that doesn’t require a computer. I’m old and trying to lighten the load. Does anyone know of a portable SSD device that has a slot for an SD card and internal power? I searched B&H and couldn’t find anything. Any other suggestions would be most welcome.

Here’s a 2tb portable drive, wifi enabled, with a USB connection for a card reader or connecting to your computer when you get home. It also has Cloud backup.

https://www.amazon.com/SSK-Portable-External-Wireless-Auto-Backup/dp/B07T3KD58D?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1

Hip Coyote

Here’s your answer. This device simply backs up files from an SD card to another drive. No computer needed. In my case I used a 1tb ssd card. Quite simple.

https://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-752652-1.html

Rick from NY Loc: Sarasota FL

If you can afford it and need one badly enough, try Nexto. Look on BH.

Tote1940 Loc: Dallas

61jhawk wrote:

I’m looking for a way to back up my photos when on a long, extended trip that doesn’t require a computer. I’m old and trying to lighten the load. Does anyone know of a portable SSD device that has a slot for an SD card and internal power? I searched B&H and couldn’t find anything. Any other suggestions would be most welcome.

I use ipad plus sd card reader. Photos go on cloud if you have wi fi