TSA - Appalachian Trail

imported
#1 
									Can I bring my hiking poles on the plane with me?

I don’t want to check any bags, if possible.
I am sending some things down to atlanta ahead of time, so I can put my sticks in the box. Please let me know.

									_Dogfood_
#2 
									Hey Dogfood...did you check with the airlines?  That would seem the easiest.  We are taking the train, so we don't have that issue.  

									_Stylin_
#3 
									Yeah I guess I could, but it's not that easy to describe on the phone. Then if they say yes on the phone,and I arrive and some hard ass TSA agent gives me a hard time, then i'm screwwed. Maybe my starting date would be delayed.

I was just wondering if anybody knows fer sure.
Thanks Stylin

									_Dogfood_
#4 
									The TSA website says that ski poles can not be carried on the plane.  I'd say that would also apply to hiking poles since they are basically the same.  If you go to TSA's website, then 'Traveler's, you can click on 'prohibited items'.

									_Bagel_
#5 
									Based on what Bagel said, seems it would be safe just to send them ahead of you.

									_Stylin_
#6 
									Thank you Bagel and Stylin, Trailjournals has been a huge help in the planning of my big hike. Any time I have a Question, all I have to do is ask!
Thanks again to everyone.

									_Dogfood_
#7 
									Dogfood,  I've encountered gate agents who feel they are the final say on what goes on the airplane even though I've spoken to their company and been told I could take a certain item.  I sent my questionable items ahead such as hiking poles, knives, stoves, fuel bottles, etc. The Hikerhostel were a great help by receiving my box which they had waiting for me when I arrived in Dalanaga. They met me at the MARTA  station, provided a bed for the night, provided a great breakfast, and transported me to Springer for a reasonable fee.  Josh and Leigh who own the hostel are hikers and are also very helpful in numerous way.  Good luck and have a great hike.

									_Old Goat_
#8 
									I've had gate agents allow me to take them on the plane, and others refuse, stating they could be used as weapons.  If you buy a cardboard shipping tube, they'll take them as checked luggage for sure in my experience.

									_Bob McCaw_
#9 
									Like it or not, TSA *is* the final word on what makes it beyond the checkpoint; no point in arguing that with them or on here. They're "securing" the airport terminal's gate areas as much as the planes themselves; who would bear scrutiny of a trekking pole-wielding hiker gone mad at the concourse B food court but for TSA? :tongue 

									_blisterfree_