What Hiking Gear Can You Take on a Plane (In A Handy Table)
Many hikers like to travel abroad, to hike in special locations worldwide. Of course, most people travel by plane. There are some restrictions on what you can and can’t bring on a plane, so if you hikers want to bring their equipment with them, it’s important to know what items you can and can’t bring on a plane.
In the US, the official entity that decides what you can and can’t bring an item on a flight is the TSA. The TSA has a help index((The official TSA page for what you can and can’t bring on a flight)) where they list different items and whether they’re allowed on a plane.
While the TSA website is beneficial and organized, it can take time to search for every item you’re planning to bring for the hike and check it individually. I compiled these helpful tables to save time with the most common hiking items. I also collected information on many items that aren’t specifically referenced in the website, by collecting information from the AskTSA Twitter account.
If you’re worried about a specific item and unsure whether you can bring it on a flight, you should check the TSA website. It lists the up-to-date regulations.
What camping equipment can you bring on a plane?
Many hikers travel abroad to hike and camp in different locations. In the table below, common camping items are listed, and whether they’re allowed in a carry-on bag, or a checked bag:
| Camping Item | Allowed In Carry-On Bag | Allowed In Checked Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Tent | Yes (confirm with the airline) | Yes |
| Tent Spikes | No | Yes |
| Tent Poles | Yes | Yes |
| Sleeping Bag | Yes | Yes |
| Sleeping Pad | Yes | Yes |
| Air Mattress with Built-in Pump | Yes (confirm with the airline) | Yes |
| Camp Stove | Yes (without fuel) | Yes (without fuel) |
| Strike Anywhere Matches | No | No |
| Safety Matches | Yes | No |
| Lighter | Yes | No |
| Headlamp | Yes | Yes |
| Dry Batteries | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Tool | Yes (without a knife) | Yes |
| Knife | No | Yes |
| Power Bank | Yes | No |
| Camping Chair | Yes (confirm with the airline) | Yes |
| Camping Stool | Yes (confirm with the airline) | Yes |
| Electric Lantern | Yes | Yes |
| Camp Grill | Yes (without fuel) | Yes (without fuel) |
| Collapsible Cooking Utensils | Yes | Yes |
| Hammock | Yes | Yes |
| Inflatable Camping Pillow | Yes (confirm with the airline) | Yes |
| Bluetooth Speaker | Yes | Yes |
| Air Pump (for an air mattress) | Yes (confirm with the airline) | Yes |
Can you bring a tent on a plane? You can bring a tent on a plane, in a carry-on bag, or a checked bag. Tent spikes must be packed in a checked bag. When taking a tent in a carry-on bag you should confirm with the airline the item will fit in the storage compartments.
Can you take an air mattress with a built-in pump on a plane? Air mattresses with a built-in pump are allowed on a plane, in the carry-on bag, or the checked bag, if it fits the airline’s size and weight restrictions.
Can you bring a camping stove on a plane? You can bring a camping stove on a plane in carry-on and checked bags, as long as it is without fuel. The fuel canister, however, is not allowed.
Is there a limit on the number of dry batteries you can bring for your electronic devices? There isn’t a specific limit on the number of dry batteries you can bring for your electronic devices. However, it’s advised to pack them in their original packaging or a battery case to prevent short circuits.
What hiking accessories can you bring on a plane?
When hiking, you sometimes need some accessories to complete the hike. In the table below, different hiking items are listed, and whether they’re allowed in a carry-on bag, or a checked bag:
| Hiking Item | Allowed In Carry-On Bag | Allowed In Checked Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking Poles / Trekking Poles | No | Yes |
| Helmet | Yes | Yes |
| Ice Picks | No | Yes |
| Rope | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Camera | Yes | Yes |
| GPS Device | Yes | Yes |
| Gaiters | Yes | Yes |
| Water Filter | Yes | Yes |
| Backpack Rain Cover | Yes | Yes |
| Folding Shovel | No | Yes |
| Emergency Whistle | Yes | Yes |
| First Aid Kit | Yes (Liquids less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml) | Yes |
| Insect Repellent | Yes (Less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml) | Yes |
| Umbrella | Yes (confirm with the airline) | Yes |
Can you bring trekking poles on a plane? Yes, you can bring trekking poles on a plane, but they are not allowed in carry-on bags. It’s advisable to pack them in your checked bag.
Can you bring a drone on a plane? Drones are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags. Ensure the batteries are in your carry-on bag and comply with airline regulations.
What outdoor gear can you bring on a plane?
You might want to bring some additional outdoor gear on your flight. In the table below, different outdoor items are listed, and whether they’re allowed in a carry-on bag, or a checked bag:
| Outdoor Item | Allowed In Carry-On Bag | Allowed In Checked Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Crampons | Yes | Yes |
| Snow Shoes | No | Yes |
| Bear Spray | No | No |
| Fishing Rod | Yes | Yes |
| Hand Warmers | Yes | Yes |
| Binoculars | Yes | Yes |
| Folding Saw | No | Yes |
| Solar Charger | Yes (confirm with the airline) | Yes (confirm with the airline) |
| Action Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Satellite Communicator | Yes | Yes |
Can you bring microspikes on a plane? Microspikes, similar to crampons, are generally allowed on a plane. You can pack them in both carry-on and checked bags. However, it’s essential to check with the airline for any specific regulations they may have.
Are portable water filters allowed on a plane? portable water filters are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags. Ensure they are clean and dry to avoid any potential issues during security screening.
Final thoughts
Ensure your hiking adventure starts smoothly by understanding the regulations surrounding your gear. While this guide provides a comprehensive overview, always check the official TSA website for the most up-to-date information. Safe travels, and may your hiking experiences be filled with exploration and joy!
