Just FYI to you photographers out there:
Just got back from a month in Argentina.
Unlike anywhere else I have traveled (26 countries), the airport security in Argentina has a "no exceptions" rule against hand inspection of film.

All film must be x-rayed with hand luggage. I went through 7 airports within Argentina, and was unable to get any relief, even with printed information from the TSA website stating that exposure to 5 or more x-ray passes may result in damage to film of any speed.

I did not have any lead bags with me so I had to take a chance. Just crossing my fingers now.

I am so sorry to hear that. I fear your photos are probably ruined if they went through seven x-ray machines. I learned the hardway to always carry a lead bag just in case. Did you have any digitals which would enable you to at least salvage some photos from your trip?

Unless you are using very high-speed film, it should be fine. Even high-speed film should yield salvageable images -- there may be some loss of contrast as well as color shift.

I will post results after processing even though results can vary.
Should also note it was all ISO 50 & 100 slide film.

I will post results after processing even though results can vary.
Should also note it was all ISO 50 & 100 slide film.
One more note: how important are these pictures to you? If they're very important, you might consider taking the film to a professional lab where they can be inspection developed, rather than relying on the local volume processor. Last time I checked, inspection development added an extra $15 to $20 per roll above the standard charge for developing and mounting. It might be worth it if your slides are irreplaceable.

Just FYI to you photographers out there:
Just got back from a month in Argentina.
Unlike anywhere else I have traveled (26 countries), the airport security in Argentina has a "no exceptions" rule against hand inspection of film.

All film must be x-rayed with hand luggage. I went through 7 airports within Argentina, and was unable to get any relief, even with printed information from the TSA website stating that exposure to 5 or more x-ray passes may result in damage to film of any speed.

I did not have any lead bags with me so I had to take a chance. Just crossing my fingers now.
probably a dumb question, but why couldnt you just put the film canisters in your pockets?

probably a dumb question, but why couldnt you just put the film canisters in your pockets?35mm film comes, usually, in metal canisters. They'd set off the WTMD.

I am so sorry to hear that. I fear your photos are probably ruined if they went through seven x-ray machines. I learned the hardway to always carry a lead bag just in case. Did you have any digitals which would enable you to at least salvage some photos from your trip?

I am only mildly concerned, since I was shooting very slow film, but it seemed worth passing on to others as a warning. Here is a link to research on the subject:

http://www.i3a.org/pdf/I3AFilmXrayTestReport.pdf

Happy to report all appears to be normal, no fogging, bands, or other issues.
FYI shot 40 rolls of Fuji slide films, ISO 50 & 100.

Nonetheless a warning to others who still shoot film, plan ahead for this issue, especially if you travel thru numerous airports within Argentina, especially with higher speed films (400 or higher).