There are many options to choose from for places to stick your drone. In this article, I will discuss some choices for travel or storage cases available to DJI Mini 3 pilots today and some of my favorite options.
There are many advantages to having a permanent place for you to keep your UAVs.
For myself, it has proven to be especially useful to have a case that can keep all your accessories (batteries, cords, manuals, and the like) reasonably safe and neatly organized.
Then finding and using your toys is as stress-free as possible.
All cases offer a varying level of security and protection from the elements, or in most cases, mainly from ever-present dust.
Most cases offer limited moisture resistance, some going so far as to claim an ‘IP67’ classification, but I wouldn’t trust any of them fully submerged in the ocean.
Technically however, the IP67 certification states that it could keep the contents dry and safe for up to half an hour in shallow water or weather (rain or snow).
I have personally used containers with IP67 certifications that have worked splendidly.
However, they are only as strong as the memory and ability of those individuals charged with the task of adequately closing and latching said container.
Another consideration in the strength and abilities of water-proofing is the sustained integrity over time of the soft rubber seal around the closure of your case.
The seal is usually a trim of rubber or silicon that runs the border of your case’s cavity.
Any punctures or damage to this component could allow moisture to penetrate the exterior and enter the delicate electronics of your prized DJI Mini 3/Mini 3 Pro.
I’m confident that if you have gone so far as to spend your hard-earned dollars on a drone, you have a keen understanding of the ‘non-association agreement’ between most electronics and water.
In case you did not know, the DJI Mini 3/Mini 3 Pro does not claim to work correctly (or incorrectly, for the record) after exposure to direct contact with excess moisture.
This includes being submerged in all liquids and occasions where wind and/or pressure cause moisture to enter the electronic circuit boards.
To help, we’ve identified and reviewed the best drone courses for beginners and professionals.
DJI Fly More Package
Fly More Kit includes two Intelligent Flight Batteries, a Two-Way Charging Hub, data cable, shoulder bag, spare propellers, and screws.
You have the option to purchase the ‘Fly More’ package offered by DJI at the time of purchasing your drone as an all-inclusive kit, or you can buy the extra accessories after the fact to add more power and capabilities to your UAV adventures.
They offer this package for most of their current consumer series, drones which give an added benefit to the DJI Mini 3/Mini 3 Pro owners of an increased Mah battery option.
You should always note that the added flight time comes with increased weight.
This means that you are no longer within the legal standards of many countries (including the U.S.A. and Canada), and if over 250 grams, registration, and certification are required.
It is offered with two battery size options available. The first presents the original battery size and maintains your aircraft weight below the 250-gram limit.
In contrast, the second offers two extra batteries, ‘Plus,’ which does cause the take-off weight to be over the allowed 250-gram limit.
This accessory pack offered by DJI contains:
- A mighty cool synthetic fiber shoulder bag that can store all the contents of the Mini 3/Mini 3 Pro as well as all the necessary cords/cards/filters and either available TX formats plus up to four total batteries.
- 2 x batteries (either the regular size or the battery plus extended capacity).
- 2-way charging hub, which allows you to charge three batteries in succession, plus the option to charge the TX (or power bank, cell phone, etc.).
The charging hub also allows the opportunity of using your UAV battery as a power bank to charge just about anything else that you might need and can connect to the USB connector.
- USB Type C Data Cable.
- 8 Propellors with necessary connecting screws (4 CCW, 4 CW).
I believe that statistically, this is the case I use most often because of its lightweight ease-of-use and low-cost, compact form factor, making it quite easy to throw in my backpack or suitcase or just to throw it over my shoulder as I run out the door.
I do not really worry about the rain or snow unless I suspect that I will be subject to times of very intense precipitation.
I have dropped it accidentally many (many) times, and I have had no issues or failures in structural or electrical integrity whatsoever.
I would not suggest it for a canoe or scuba trip or if you plan on being out in heavy thunderstorms or very high humidity (rain/cloud forests perhaps) if you have an ‘IP67-rated option available to you.
I have used it consistently for around a year now on most of my quick drone adventures and employ it often as daily storage for my Mini 3 Pro.
Best Leather Case
- Skyreat Mini 3 Pro
- Leather
- Includes adjustable shoulder strap
- Works for either transmitter option
- Holds four batteries (1 stowed in the drone body)
Suppose you do not really require the rugged protection of a water-proof hard shell case. Instead, a textile option might be a lighter-weight choice that is easier on your wallet and less weight to carry.
For most users, however, on most occasions, the protection offered by a soft-shell case is more than adequate; the savings on size and weight are often worth it.
Likely the very reason that many of us have chosen the DJI Mini 3 Pro in the first place.
I have experienced a few different options of these types of cases.
Although I personally often opt for the synthetic case that DJI offers with their ‘Fly More’ package, I have used a few different offerings depending on my needs and circumstances.
Best Waterproof Option
- 2022 FPVtosky Hard Case
- IP67 Certified
- Waterproof SD card case included (NO SD card included)
- Propellor strap included (Keeps your props from dog-ear flopping around while you man-handle your drone with the arms folded in)
- Large capacity for accessories and batteries (8 batteries total in large/4 in small)
- Facilitates both controller options (DJI RC or DJI RC-N1)
I try to maintain an active, outdoor lifestyle; many of my adventures involve a river, lake, or, at the very least, some precipitation.
Just like a jacket, hat, or umbrella is a solid addition to any adventure preparedness kit, a hard case/water-resistant case offers an unparalleled sense of security against water and moisture while offering adequate protection against bouncing and dropping.
In addition, albeit sometimes unnecessary, it is always good for peace of mind not to worry about the fragile, precious electronics detrimental to our beloved Mini 3/Mini 3 Pro.
Personally, I do not mind the extra size or weight usually to have the extra batteries, so I use the larger option. I like to have my accessories available for any flight at a whim.
ND filters definitely, but also things like extra batteries, clothes, bluetooth headphones for music, my cell phone, lighters and papers (emergency preparedness is vital), notepad and pen, etc. can all fit in this case and be kept neat, safe, and dry.
Best Budget Water-Proof Case
- Lekufee Compact Water-proof Hardcase
- IP-67 Certified
- RC-N1 only
- Storage for four batteries
- Slots for 2 SD card cases
- A place for extra pair of control sticks
I have a friend who purchased this one a few months ago and uses it for his DJI Mavic Pro and the Mini 3 Pro. He has stated to me more than once that he is pleased with it overall.
After hearing his endorsements, I firmly believe that the value offered is well worth the price asked.
He also travels often, and although I know he uses fire-proof bags for transporting the batteries and only flies domestically, he has had no issues with the FAA, to my knowledge.
Additionally, he has had no complaints or issues with durability after a few occasions of use.
Extra Storage/Safety Accessories
1. StartRC Mini 3 Pro RC HD Tempered Glass Protective Film
Protects the touch screen from scuffs and scratches, and minor abrasions
Adds extra strength
Anti-scratch, explosion-proof screen, protect your DJI Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro RC remote control screen.
2. StartRC Mini 3/Mini 3 Pro RC Silicone Case Cover Sleeve
This product is not only great added protection but also a unique and cool way to add a personal touch to your TX.
It can make your DJI Mini 3 Pro transmitter stand out a little bit in a sea of boring steely grey, monotonous hard plastic.
- Adds a protective silicon ‘skin’ to your DJI RC
- Protects against light abrasions and scratches
- Adds extra grip/texture
3. GordTok Mini 3/Mini 3 Pro Propeller holder
- Secures loose propellers during transport
- Keeps props tight to the body of the drone while folded in
- Made from tough silicon
- Prevents damage to props and arms
4. Zeee Lipo Safe Bag
Protects you and your property from the inherent dangers/risks of storing and transporting chemical batteries.
They are beneficial for most types of batteries used in RC tech. (Li-Po, NiMh/NiCad and lead acid).
When used correctly, they are fire-proof.
For example, in the event of a battery accident causing a chemical fire, they will prevent the combustion from spreading to anything else close by and quickly extinguish themselves from lack of oxygen.
The only way to secure your UAV batteries for transport or safe storage. The only way to be 100% confident in battery safety.
I have two of the larger size of this product, and I use them a lot. I keep my batteries at home in these bags if they are stored for more than a few days.
I also use them any time I travel with batteries if they are out of my sight for any length of time.
You can store your batteries in this bag and then place that in a storage bag/case for the Mini 3 Pro.
Zeee fireproof storage bag use for safely transporting, storing, and charging lipo batteries.