backpack as checked luggage

[bryanmertz]

Hi - I have a trip coming up and I'm thinking of packing in my backpack. Just wondering if it's required to put the pack in a big duffle, or if it's generally ok to just tuck all the staps in?

Thanks,
Bryan

[dysfunction]

If I were checking my pack, it'd go in a duffle. I don't think I'd trust the baggage handlers otherwise. I might even pack it all separate in the duffle... Course, if I could carry on, I would (my pack would actually qualify!)

[JimmyLyding]

I've carried on my Osprey Stratos 24, and it's a fairly good-sized daypack.

[big_load]

Definitely a duffel or equivalent. Many airlines won't accept an unbagged backpack, although a contractor-sized garbage bag is sufficient for most. I use an Osprey Airporter, which is something in between. Besides the policy issue, there the risk imposed by machines. I've seen some awful strap dismemberment out there on the road.

[big_load]

I've carried on my Osprey Stratos 24, and it's a fairly good-sized daypack.

That's fine, as long as you don't have TSA non-carry items in it like a knife or trekking poles.

[Al_HikesAZ]

That's fine, as long as you don't have TSA non-carry items in it like a knife or trekking poles.

Or fuel canisters, or lighters or ;)

[dysfunction]

funny, a friend of mine had no problems carrying trekking poles back from the grand canyon (he did mail them to me on the way out though) ..

[big_load]

funny, a friend of mine had no problems carrying trekking poles back from the grand canyon (he did mail them to me on the way out though) ..

Just to be clear, they're fine in checked baggage, but not for carry-on. People do sometimes get them through, but the screening line is no place to discover that you didn't get lucky.

[joebartels]

viewtopic.php?f=36&t=2825

[dysfunction]

In response to big_load:
yeah, the complete lack of consistency at the TSA kills me. FWIW he knew there was a chance he'd lose em

[Jeffshadows]

I've checked my large ruck with the straps all stowed by those Velcro straps you can get at outdoor stores and never had any issues, in the past.

[chumley]

That's fine, as long as you don't have TSA non-carry items in it like a knife or trekking poles.

Or fuel canisters, or lighters or ;)

Lighters are ok now ... at least bic-style lighters. Not the windproof or zippo style.

[base871]

If you do check it, be sure to stow all the excess straps. I have had them get stuck in the moving belt and get torn up. Id go with a duffle.

[jostream]

My gear has always fit into a large army rucksack. Durable and very cheap at any local army surplus store.

[JimmyLyding]

I've carried on my Osprey Stratos 24, and it's a fairly good-sized daypack.

That's fine, as long as you don't have TSA non-carry items in it like a knife or trekking poles.

The last time I came back to AZ from Maui I forgot about my nice 3" Gerber knife. I hope that Hawai'ian dude who works at the airport is enjoying it. Of course I also had a checked bag.... My Osprey was just another thing to spread out the weight because my checked luggage was full of 100% Kona coffee and macadamia nuts. At least I got to enjoy the coffee and the nuts.