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hiking poles

thanks to everyone for your helpful replies. here's another question i need help with. I want to carry my backpack on the plane for europe as my only luggage. I would like to use my poles to help through airport transfers. if that's not allowed, can they be carried in my backpack? fran

Posted by
9099 posts

I just bought a Black Diamond hiking pole which collapses to 23 inches (the most compact model I was able to locate), for an upcoming trip to Switzerland. Fully collapsed it just barely fits into my Rick Steves Bag. If your pole is any longer than that you will have to check-it as a seperate pice of luggage.

Posted by
5470 posts

Sorry to tell you that in 1999 when I flew from Sweden to Nice via Paris, my collapsible hiking poles were taken away from me by security at the Paris airport. They made me go and check them (despite the fact that I had just carried them on the first leg of my flight). When I asked why, they told me that they were dangerous and could be used as a weapon. They had to be checked. This was all before 9/11, so I would be concerned that it is probably stricter now.

Posted by
5470 posts

one more thing. I checked the TSA website.
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

It says that ski poles are not allowed in carry on luggage. However, it says the following about walking canes:

Walking Canes - allowed in carry-on baggage once they have been inspected to ensure that prohibited items are not concealed.

So it may depend on whether the inspector considers your hiking pole a walking cane or not.

Posted by
769 posts

I just bought a pair of Black Diamonds in my starting town of Meiringen for my Swiss Alps tour this past Aug. I knew I wouldnt be able totake them on the plane, and they had the same models as we have here - for abput the same price. I wasnt sure how to take them home since I had carry one only over , and check a full RS bag full of chocoalte on the way home. The poles stayed with a relative for next year. I thought of mailing them home, too - which may be fine. Also - you can get one of those $15 fold-up duffel backs that will fit the poles... and check that on the plane and keep your pack with you!

Posted by
1158 posts

Call or email TSA. I emailed them and they answered me in 2 days. It wasn't a very intelligent answer, but at least I got one.