How to Travel With a Kayak

Whether it be down a river or along a coastline, kayaking is a popular water sport. However, it always seems that most of the best rivers or stretches of coastal sea for sea kayaking are always found far from home. Taking a folding kayak on a trip isn't necessarily easy, especially if you must fly to get to your destination, but it is the best way to get a durable kayak to distant destinations.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Duffel bag or cardboard box
Styrofoam peanuts, bubble wrap or packing foam
Packing tape (possible)

Step 1

Using a tape measure, measure the duffel bag or box that you will use to pack your folding kayak as over-sized checked baggage. As many folding kayaks weigh under 50 lbs. (the standard limit) and most weigh under 100 lbs. (the overweight limit), your main problem will be the size limitation. Measure and add together the length, width and height of your box or bag to determine its linear inches. Most airlines have a linear inch limit of 115 inches for over-sized luggage, so your box or bag needs to be no larger than this.

Step 2

Pack the box or bag with care. Use Styrofoam peanuts, bubble wrap or something similar as padding if your weight limit will allow it. If you are using a cardboard box, bind every seam and corner heavily with packing tape, so to avoid damage by baggage handlers or during flight.

Step 3

Add half an hour to the recommended arrival time for your flight to get your over-sized baggage inspected and checked in. If the standard recommendation is two hours, get there two-and-a-half hours in advance.

Step 4

Bring enough cash to pay for your over-sized baggage charges. This is a standard recommendation on the part of many airlines, although you will probably be able to use your credit or debit card at the check-in desk.

Step 5

Plan on being stopped by customs upon arrival if you are traveling internationally with your folding kayak. Over-sized baggage is a magnet for customs attention, so avoid tight timetables for making a train or bus connection.

Tips & Warnings

Always call the airline to double-check what the over-sized baggage limitations are if you are traveling internationally. There are some variations, particularly in the fees charged, depending on where you are going.

Article Written By Edwin Thomas

Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.

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