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I have added the tag "walking poles/sticks" under the title of this thread. If you click on it, I expect that you will find a few threads discussing people's experiences.Anyone had any experience
Hi @Jerronymo! Everyone who replies to your question ought to first read the thread linked above before replying because it accurately provides the general picture. This thread consists of a single post and I did read it
I've found that by breaking the poles down to the smallest size, covering ends with rubber tips, and individually binding them tightly with numerous layers of plastic wrap works. I was told this by an acquaintance working airport security. It renders them less threatening and somehow gets them through. I've placed them one on each side inside of my pack opting to take a few things out that can easily be placed under the seat. You can go on the sites of the airlines and also the security agencies ( in USA, it's TSA ) and check their current regulations. They do change them if there are heightened threats / tension.Anyone had any experience with getting collapsible (fold up) poles through airport security checkpoints in carryon baggage.
In particular when exiting Australia and Spain?
Yes, there's apparently been a change of policy at Santiago airport.Yes, I have always carried my z poles inside carry on, even through Santiago airport. Last month I saw a man at the gate with his rather long telescoping poles, one attached to each side of his pack and clearly visible.
There are always exceptions. Last year I decided to try to bring my collapsible telescoping pole with its huge rubber tip back to the US from Madrid airport. I had it in my son's backpack, but it was still removed at security. I asked the agent why and he held it up and pretended to hit me over the head with it...still considered a weapon.I've found that by breaking the poles down to the smallest size, covering ends with rubber tips, and individually binding them tightly with numerous layers of plastic wrap works. I was told this by an acquaintance working airport security. It renders them less threatening and somehow gets them through.
Don't do it in Madrid. They took my $150 poles.Anyone had any experience with getting collapsible (fold up) poles through airport security checkpoints in carryon baggage.
In particular when exiting Australia and Spain?
Don't do it in Madrid. They took my $150 poles.
It would be good if all security screening around the world were consistent. Anyway, the BD Z carbons will have to stay home and not participate on this hike.I carried trekking poles through Madrid airport about 12 times in last 8 years in carryon, sometimes through multiple security scans on heightened alert situations with no issue
You can easily find cheap but effective ones at Decathlon.It would be good if all security screening around the world were consistent. Anyway, the BD Z carbons will have to stay home and not participate on this hike.
So sorry to hear you lost your poles Jeronymopiy, and will not be taking the Z's. I consider the carbon Zs to be an essential part of my Camino ultralight kit. Base weight about 8 lbs/3.5 kilo. I carry a doctor's letter stating I must have the poles at all times in case my chronic Achilles tendonitis becomes a problem, which is true. I also remove the carbide tips and put the poles in my 8 liter drybag that contains all spare clothes and sleeping bag. The bag is fully labeled with my name and address in case security does find the poles and requires me to check them. Never had to invoke plan A or B.It would be good if all security screening around the world were consistent. Anyway, the BD Z carbons will have to stay home and not participate on this hike.
Lucky you didn't get the same agent I did.I carried trekking poles through Madrid airport about 12 times in last 8 years in carryon, sometimes through multiple security scans on heightened alert situations with no issue
But interesting that my summary remains true!Now it seems that the rules are no longer clear; change without notice or explanation, and continue to be applied inconsistently.
What makes them worth $150? I traveled without any, and the pair I bought in Spain for €10 each seemed just fine to me.Don't do it in Madrid. They took my $150 poles.