Camping on the Plane: How to Travel With Your Gear
The ultimate escape for relaxation and adventure is camping. But how do you bring your camping gear with you when you’re traveling to new places, on planes or trains? For seasoned campers and outdoor enthusiasts, the thought of bringing their gear on a plane is daunting. It’s sensible to take special precaution when packing for a flight, but it doesn’t have to be frustrating. Follow the below tips and you’ll be ready for your next camping trip in no time.
Tips on Packing for a Trip:
- Pack Smartly: Take only the essential camping gear that you need. Leave the kitchen sink and all non-essential items at home. You don’t want to be overburdened by carrying too much gear. Having the right equipment is important, especially items like sleeping bags, tents, and tarps. Also, avoid over-packing fragile items by padding them securely.
- Do your research: Check the weight and size allowances of the airline you’re travelling with before your departure. It’s important that your camping gear fits within the limitations of the airline. Additionally, it’s wise to call the airline ahead of time to ask about their specific policies. That way you can avoid any surprises when you arrive at the airport.
- Double Check: Revisit the list of items you’re planning to bring with you. This is to make sure you are not bringing any prohibited items on board. Certain items will require special handling, so it’s important to look into this.
Other Considerations When Packing:
- Bring a Carry-On: This will allow you to keep the majority of your gear with you during transit. Do remember to pack your tent, rainfly, and other items in a waterproof bag, just in case your bags get wet while flying.
- Consider Split Packing: If your camping gear is really hefty, consider dividing the load with friends or family members. One person can carry a tent, while the second person carries additional items. This way each person has the load that they can handle comfortably.
- Consider Rental Options: If your gear weighs more than what’s allowed on your plane, or if you don’t have enough people to split the load, consider renting from a local outfitter. It can be very helpful, particularly if you don’t want to deal with checking heavy items into your cargo.
Things to Keep in Mind When Flying with Your Camping Gear:
- Label Your Items: This is incredibly important, as it will help you locate your belongings when you arrive at your destination. Label your tent, sleeping bag, and anything else you plan to bring onto the plane.
- Be Mindful of Security: Some airlines might ask for you to open your bags for inspection. Make sure you have packed all your tents, sleeping bags, and other items in a way that makes it easy to access them for security screening.
Finally, keep yourself organized. Arrive early to the airport, so you have enough time to check-in, pass through security, and make your way to the boarding area.
Keep Your Camping Gear Safe With These Ideas:
- Use a Camping Chair: A camping chair is both lightweight and portable, making it the perfect way to take your camping gear with you on the plane. Think of them as an extra storage option that won’t take up too much room in your carry-on or checked luggage. You can also store your sleeping bag inside your camping chair for extra protection.
- Makeuse of compression sacks and plastic bins: Pack your gear in standard zippered compression sacks and then place them in clear plastic bins. The bins will keep your gear secure, so it won’t break or get damaged during transit. Plus, having the clear plastic bins will make it easier for security personnel to check and identify the items.
If the idea of bringing camping gear with you on a plane is daunting, you’re not alone. Any experienced camper will tell you that it looks intimidating on paper – but with the right strategy and tips you can easily navigate plane travel with your gear. Being organized is key and packaging items in the right way is essential. Now that you are better prepared, your next camping getaway should go a lot smoother!
[recommendations keyword=’how-to-bring-camping-gear-on-a-plane’]