[pct-l] flying with gear

[Bob Bankhead]

Straps can get caught. So can anything on the outside of the pack - trekking poles (be sure the tips are shielded), sleeping pads, etc.). Ice axes will probably require a separate box (to protect the baggage handlers); check with your airline. Tighten all straps, especially the shoulder straps. Wrap the extra strap lengths around themselves and tuck or tie them. Buckle your hip belt across the FRONT of your pack and cinch it down. Cold welds are not required, just snug enough so they don't flop around. For better protection, put your pack in a duffel of some sort. I use the cheapest thing I can find and discard it at my destination. I'll buy another for the trip home. Out of sight means things are less likely to "disappear".

Busted for matches? Why defy the rules for something you could easily pick up at the airport  or a local store when you get off the plane? If the TSA inspectors see something during their X-ray inspection that looks like matches or a lighter, they'll most likely open the pack to check it. What will they do then - confiscate the item(s) or call you back to address it? Will they even look that closely or not - who knows; depends on who you get and what's going on at the time. 

In today's airport security environment and "cover my _ _ _" workplace procedures, it's just not worth it. I won't even take my Esbit tablets aboard a plane, and they're harder to ignite than the cardboard and paper that goes in those luggage compartments.