GearUpRenting a drone is the easiest way to get aerial shots without buying one. It also comes with more ways for things to go wrong than renting a camera: flat batteries, a controller that will not connect, and rules about where you can fly. Here is what to check before you book.
Pick the right drone for the job
Small, lightweight drones are easy to carry and fine for travel content and social media. Larger drones handle wind better and carry better cameras, which matters for client work and real estate. If you are new to flying, a smaller drone with obstacle sensing is far more forgiving.
Count the batteries
Flight time per battery is short, usually well under half an hour. For most shoots you want at least three batteries and a charging hub. Ask the shop how many batteries are included, and whether they are charged before pickup.
Check the full kit at pickup
A drone kit has many small parts, and a missing one can end your shoot. Check each of these against the list the shop gives you.
- Drone and controller
- Power both on and confirm they connect. Check the gimbal moves freely.
- Propellers
- Look for chips or cracks, and make sure spares are in the case.
- Batteries and charger
- Check the charge level on each battery and that the charger works.
- Cables and memory card
- You need the right cable for your phone and a card with enough space.
Know the flight rules
Drones in the Philippines are regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). The basics most guides agree on: fly in daylight and good weather, keep the drone within your line of sight, stay well away from people and crowds, keep below the altitude limit of about 120 metres (400 feet), and stay at least 10 kilometres from airports unless you have a permit.
Commercial flying, heavier drones and flights over populated areas, at night or beyond line of sight need CAAP certificates or special permits. Some places, like popular tourist islands and protected areas, have their own permit rules. Rules change, so check the current requirements on the CAAP website before you fly.
Understand the deposit and damage terms
Drone deposits tend to be higher than camera deposits because crashes happen. Before you book, ask what happens if the drone is damaged or a propeller breaks, and how the shop decides what to charge. A good shop records the condition of the drone at pickup so there is no argument later.
On GearUp, every component is listed on your rental, and deductions from your deposit need a written reason. Read more in security deposits for gear rentals, explained.
Find a drone near you
Browse drones for rent from shops across the Philippines, or open the shop map to find one close to your shoot. Each shop's booking page shows which days are free before you send a request.