flying with backpacking gear

“I remember some discussion about airlines refusing to let people take things like stoves on planes. It seemed like a hit-or-miss kind of thing - sometimes no problem, other times a huge problem. In light of 9/11 I imagine things have tightened up. Has anyone had any experience with this?”

“I do not have direct experiance with it, but from what I heard, you can take your stove with you, just not your fuel. I would think that you can take pocket knives and such, just not on your person. You'd have to keep questionable items in your pack, which you would check at the gate. I would contact the airline that you plan on flying. Different carriers may have different rules about what you can bring onboard.”

“I had no trouble checking my backpacking gear when I flew in November. I always put my pack inside a big duffle bag. Definitely looking for a new duffle with wheels.. What a pain! I had all the usual gear, stove, knives,etc.., but no fuel or matches (one time I had to dismantle my pack and dig out my matches at the counter, so I make sure I don't pack matches!) I always check it, too big for carry-on. I did notice that when I arrived it had been gone through. Wasn't messed up, just could tell it had been rifled through.”

“1 big duffel bag. I've flown quite a few times and never had any trouble. I also do not carry any fuel.”

“I flew Alaska Airlines to Seattle with all my bping gear (a week after Sep 11). Just check everything suspect (stove, 1st aid kit). You will not have a problem.

Just buy your fuel canister when you get there because you are not allowed to check anything flammable or hazardous (they ask you this).”

“I've even had the batteries in my camera taken out by an over-zealous customs officer at Delhi Airport.

When I'm trekking, I'll use a "travel Pack" instead of my "Hike Pack". It's a suitcase shaped bag with a fully adjustable harness (and harness cover).It has a detachable daypack that I can use as carry on luggage.
Ultimately I'll change to a "Hybrid Pack" (as above, but top loading as well as front panel loading) when I can afford it.(see Macpac Genesis)
I previously used my hike pack and put it in a travel tote, which was o.k. as long as I didnt want to get to anything quickly. I also had the problem of storing the tote bag when I was carrying my pack.
I havent seen a lot of people using travel packs, apart from other Australians, do you people know this style of pack.
If your curious I can list a couple web sites that might be of interest.”

“ladyhiker, I just got a duffel on wheels from walmart for under $40. Problem is that it is only 3800 cubic inches. Might need two.”

“Bunyip, we have them in the states. Not sure they are popular with BPers as such, so much as travelers who may be facing some hikes or lots of transit changes (via railpass for example). My wife has an Eagle Creek travel pack and it served her well on a 2 1/2 week jaunt through Finland, as she could wear it as a pack while pulling her elderly mother's wheeled luggage. I've got a Lowe Alpine travel pack (Voyageur 40+10) and it is pretty nifty for air travel. Our two daughters have REI travel packs, and both have used them well, one in Europe, the other for regular flights around the Midwest.”

“Most of the travel packs I've seen have been (mine included) are around 75-85Lt.

I guess the smaller capacities negate the need for a detachable daypack.”

“There's backpacking gear out there that will allow you to fly? A pack with wings?”

“that beats the hell out of trekking poles! LOL!!!!”

“I met some trekking Netherlanders.

We did not come into conflict.”

“LOL!!!!”

“and I use a gigantic dufflebag... biggest one Adventure 16 used to make (I think I'd fit in it). And when I did fly with it I was treated like it was a suitcase nuke. I didn't bring fuel either though. So I plan on getting to the airport pretty early.”

“Got this from the American Alpine Club today. Just in case you're considering flying anywhere with gear soon...

AIRLINE REGULATIONS PROHIBIT TRANSPORTING STOVES AND FUEL

In light of the heightened security procedures at American airports, climbers
should be aware that the FAA has prohibited the transport of stoves, stove fuel
(both liquid and canister), lighters and some types of matches. The enforcement
of this rule was spotty before September 11th, but we have received reports of
more vigorous enforcement since then.”

“An unprotected backpack is an invitation to abuse and suspicion. Gotta Lowe Alpine HUGE duffle at Campmor for forty bucks coupla years back. Put the foam pad on the bottom for protection and rigidity. I usually mail the stove out ahead to a General Delivery address, and bear spray, too, if warranted.When I get to the P.O., I'll insert my duffel in the carton and ship it to myself at the same or another P.O. Officially, all airlines prohibit used stoves. Last summer at Sea-Tac airport, there were "Prohibited" signs all over with an illustration seeming to depict my very stove (Svea 123R. Am flying out to AZ in late Mar (from E. Coast). First flight since 9/11, but I have no special concerns. But I am leaving on the first day of Passover (Mar. 28). Hmmm....”