How to Take a Hiking Backpack Through an Airport

Backpackers often choose to fly to distant hiking destinations and, although their gear is well-organized, large backpacks and equipment can be difficult to clear through airport security and baggage services. By carefully packing stoves, tools and other pieces of gear, you will be better able to avoid hassles at the airport.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Check your backpack as luggage. Items like pocketknives, stoves, ropes and water bottles will likely not make it past airport security as carry-on items, and they are generally too important to leave at home. If you must carry on your pack, check your airline's security listings for specific regulations and follow them closely.

Step 2

Remove fuel bottles from your pack and purchase them at your destination. Make sure items like water bottles are empty and open to inspection.

Step 3

Secure pack straps to avoid snagging during baggage loading. Tighten all adjustments and tuck the straps in pockets. Be sure to tie the loose ends. Check that all fasteners are closed.

Step 4

Request a luggage cover from your airline agent. These (generally free) plastic bags fit over your pack and will protect the straps from conveyor belts and other snags.

Step 5

Complete a final check of your pack before dropping it off at security. Make sure all contents are inside a fastened section of your pack, not on daisy chains, in mesh pockets or otherwise attached to the outside. Double-check the name and destination on the luggage ticket, and keep the stub and receipt in case of mishaps. Keep items like cameras and film in your carry-on bag.

Tips & Warnings

Taking hiking boots, dusty packs and dirty clothing through security screening may cause delays. Work with all security personnel and allow extra time to clear security checkpoints.

If you bring a day pack or hiking clothing as carry-on luggage, double-check the contents before you arrive at the airport. Small tools like pocketknives and cigarette lighters are easy to forget and will not pass the security screening.

Resources

Article Written By Greg Johnson

Greg Johnson earned his Bachelor of Arts in creative writing from The Ohio University. He has been a professional writer since 2008, specializing in outdoors content and instruction. Johnson's poetry has appeared in such publications as "Sphere" and "17 1/2 Magazine."

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...