Can You Take Hiking Sticks On A Plane? [Personal Experience!]

Can you take hiking sticks on a plane? This is a question that many travelers are wondering about these days.

With the popularity of hiking and trekking, more and more people are looking to bring their hiking sticks with them when they fly. 

But can you actually do it? We will discuss the rules for taking hiking sticks on a plane and give you some tips on making the process as easy as possible.

To ensure that you are well-equipped with all you need to know, here are the things that we are going to be looking at:

  • Are You Allowed To Carry Hiking Poles As A Carry-On?
  • Why TSA Does Not Allow Hiking Sticks As Carry-On
  • Are Collapsible Hiking Sticks Allowed On Airplanes?
  • Can You Take A Walking Stick On A Plane?
  • The Rules And Regulations About Bringing Hiking Sticks
  • What Happens During A Security Check-Up?
  • Can You Mail Your Hiking Sticks?
  • How To Carry Hiking Sticks On A Plane?
  • What You Should Not Do 
  • Types of Hiking Poles
can you take hiking sticks on a plane

DISCLOSURE

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Are You Allowed A Carry Hiking Poles As A Carry-On?

The answer to this question is no. You can’t bring hiking poles on a plane as a carry-on item. 

However, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. First of all, each airline has its own rules and regulations regarding carry-on items, but in general, all airlines will follow TSA rules and regulations. 

But, if there’s any medical reason to use the hiking sticks that can assist you, you might be able to bring your hiking poles carry-on. So be sure to check with your airline before packing your hiking sticks. 

Now that we’ve answered the question, β€œCan you take hiking sticks on a plane?” let’s move on to some tips for making the process as easy as possible.

Here are a few tips for packing your hiking sticks:

  • Pack your hiking sticks in a durable bag or container. This will help protect them from damage during transit.
  • If possible, pack your hiking sticks in their bags, making it easier to store them and keep them organized.
  • Make sure your hiking sticks are clean before packing them. This will help prevent dirt and grime from getting on other items in your bag.

Why Does TSA Not Allow Hiking Sticks As Carry-On?

The TSA views these as a potential weapon and a security threat that they don’t allow to bring hiking poles. In the wrong hands, they could be used to hurt someone. 

Additionally, they can block passageways or doors, which could cause problems in an emergency. Finally, they can be a nuisance to other passengers if they are not packed properly, and it could disturb the entire flight process.

Are Collapsible Hiking Sticks Allowed On Airplanes?

Unfortunately, collapsible hiking sticks are not allowed on airplanes and not permitted in hand luggage. The main reason for this is that they can be easily assembled and used as weapons.

Secondly, it can be used in many ways to endanger public safety. TSA will ban or not allow you to board in if any object can harm the public’s safety.

If you want to bring your hiking poles, you can’t put your hiking poles carry on luggage.

You must bring your hiking pole as a checked-in bag, which most airlines and the TSA allow.

can you take hiking sticks on a plane

The Rules And Regulations About Bringing Hiking Sticks

The TSA says that you can’t bring them as carry-on luggage. But, can you take hiking sticks on a plane? Each airliner has different rules and regulations. So, it is important to check with your airline before you travel. 

If you are planning on bringing hiking sticks on a plane, we recommend that you pack them in a bag that meets your airline’s size and weight requirements.

Here are some tips for packing your hiking sticks so that they will be allowed on the plane:

  • Check with your airline before you travel to make sure they allow hiking sticks on the plane.
  • Check with the country or state destination that it is allowed to bring hiking sticks as a checked bag.

What Happens During A Security Check-Up?

You might be asking yourself, can you take hiking sticks on a plane? Yes, but it must be solely for medical reasons that can you bring hiking poles on a plane.

But, there are a couple of steps during the security check-up that you must be aware of when carrying a hiking pole and what you should do during a security check-up to ensure that everything is running smoothly.

  • Hiking sticks should not have any sharp edges or pointy sides that could be a danger to the public.
  • You will need to provide any medical documentation to prove that you require a walking aid to assist you.

Afterward, depending on wherever you can stand for five to seven seconds without any support, according to the TSA, you will go through a screening process, but if you choose not to go with the screening process, you can receive a pat-down.

Pat-Down will be carried by a TSA office of the same gender, and if you are having trouble standing up during the process, you can request to be seated if you feel uncomfortable.

As for your aids, they must go through an x-ray scan, and if the aids can’t fit into an x-ray scan, a TSA officer will inspect the aids manually. If you must reunite with your walking aids, you can ask the TSA officer.

Can You Mail Your Hiking Sticks?

Yes, you can mail your hiking sticks; however, there are a few things to consider before mailing them. 

First of all, you will need to package your hiking sticks securely, which will help prevent them from getting damaged during transit. 

Secondly, you will need to choose the right shipping option.

 If you are sending your hiking sticks internationally, we recommend using a service that offers tracking and insurance. This way, you can ensure that your hiking sticks arrive safely at your destination.

Major delivery companies offer to track and ship to various countries globally, which can be much more cost-effective if the delivery companies have a logistics hub in the country that you are traveling, making the delivery much smoother and faster.

can you take hiking sticks on a plane

How To Carry Hiking Sticks On A Plane?

You have a few options, including packing your hiking sticks as a carry-on or mailing your hiking sticks to your destination. 

If you are wondering how can I bring hiking sticks on a plane, you can bring your hiking sticks by check-in and be sure to measure them and pack them in a bag that meets your airline’s size requirements.

If you’re looking for an alternative to carrying your hiking sticks on the plane, you can always mail them to your destination. Just package them securely and choose a shipping option that offers tracking and insurance.

What You Should Not Do 

You should not bring hiking sticks on airplanes. These materials are not allowed in carry-on bags and must be packed in checked luggage. 

Secondly, you should not pack your hiking sticks in a bag that does not meet your airline’s size requirements. 

Doing so could result in your bag being too large to be considered a carry-on and you may be required to check it in.

You should also not pack your hiking sticks in a bag with other items. This could damage your hiking sticks or cause them to become entangled with other items in your bag. 

You should not attempt to bring more than two hiking sticks on a plane. Most airlines limit the number of carry-on items you can bring, and two hiking sticks count as one item.

Types of Hiking Poles

There are a few different types of hiking poles, and the type you need depends on the terrain you’ll be hiking on and your personal preferences.

  • Telescoping Poles: These poles are adjustable, so you can extend or retract them to fit your needs. They’re great for hikers who want one pole to be used in various situations.
  • Collapsible Poles: These poles are also adjustable, but they collapse to a smaller size, making them easier to transport and store. They’re a good option for hikers who plan on doing a lot of walking on even terrain.
  • Fixed-Length Poles: These poles are not adjustable and come in one fixed length. They’re the simplest type of hiking poles and are best suited for even terrain.

No matter what type of hiking pole you choose, make sure it’s comfortable for you to use and the right size.

You should be able to grip the handle comfortably and have enough space between your hand and the ground when the pole is fully extended. Additionally, make sure the pole is the right length for your height.

When choosing a hiking pole, it’s important to consider the terrain you’ll use it on. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking on even terrain, a collapsible or fixed-length pole would be a good option.

However, if you’re planning to hike on rougher terrain, a telescoping pole would be better.

Best Hiking Sticks That Are Travel-Friendly 

Now that we are familiar with the different types of hiking sticks and poles, let’s delve into whether can you bring hiking sticks on a plane that are travel-friendly, light, comfortable, and sturdy. I have done some research, and here are the four hiking sticks that fit all the criteria.

can you take hiking sticks on a plane

1. Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles

Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are made from 100% carbon fiber, making them very lightweight (0.21kg) and durable. They’re also easily adjustable, so you can extend or retract them to fit your needs. 

Additionally, the tips are made from thermoplastic rubber, which helps provide grip on various surfaces.

These poles are also travel-friendly, as they collapse down to a smaller size (55-degree angle). They come with their own carrying case, so you can easily pack them in your luggage.

PROS:

  • Lightweight and durable
  • Easily adjustable
  • Thermoplastic rubber tips provide grip on a variety of surfaces
  • Collapse down to a smaller size for travel
  • Has a 120-day return policy on top of the standard 30-day return policy.

CONS:

  • Not many color options
can you take hiking sticks on a plane

2. Trekology Trekking Poles

Trekology Trekking Poles are made from aircraft-grade aluminum – durable and lightweight (0.68kg). They also have an ergonomic design that prevents knee injuries, supports weight effortlessly, and gives a strong grip on the trekking poles.

Additionally, the handles are made from EVA foam, which wicks sweat away. They’re also adjustable, so you can extend or retract them to fit your needs. Additionally, the tips are made from carbide steel, which helps provide grip on various surfaces.

These poles are also travel-friendly, as they collapse down to a smaller size (15-inches) that helps to fit into a backpack much more easily. They come with their carrying case, so you can easily pack them in your luggage.

PROS:

  • Made from aircraft-grade aluminum for durability and lightness
  • Ergonomic design prevents knee injury, supports weight effortlessly, and allows for a strong grip
  • Handles are made from EVA foam for comfort
  • Adjustable to fit your needs
  • It comes with a carrying case

CONS:

  • Shorter than some other trekking poles on the market
  • The plastic locking mechanism may not be as durable as some other options
can you take hiking sticks on a plane

3. Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles are made from 100% carbon fiber, making them very lightweight (0.45kg) and durable. They’re also easily adjustable, so you can extend or retract them to fit your needs. Additionally, the tips are made from carbide steel, which helps provide grip on various surfaces.

It also has an EVA grip that helps the trekking pole be easily gripped and makes holding your trekking pole securely much easier. The EVA grip is also moisture-wicking, which helps avoid your trekking pole or your hands being wet during your hike.

These poles are also travel-friendly, as they collapse down to a smaller size (26-inch), and you can fully extend the trekking poles up to 54 inches long. They come with their carrying case, so you can easily pack them in your luggage.

PROS:

  • Lightweight and durable
  • Easily adjustable
  • Collapse down to a smaller size for travel

CONS:

  • None
can you take hiking sticks on a plane

4. CLINE Travel Folding Trekking Hiking Pole

CLINE Travel Folding Trekking Hiking Pole is made from aerospace-grade 7075 aluminum alloy, making it durable. It also has a premium quality ABS and EVA foam handle with incredible durability and safety. 

Additionally, each trekking pole can be extended from 13″ to 53″ inches (33-135cm).

With a folding length of 13” and a weight of 0.62lbs (280g), this collapsible walking cane can easily fit into a backpack or airline carry-on bag. 

The cane grip is designed to be around your hand, making it easy and comfortable to grip.

 These shock-absorbing poles can reduce strains on hands and wrist during long hikes.

It has non-slip features that help grip your hiking poles much more securely and not worry that they might slip off from your hand when hiking on uneven terrain.

PROS:

  • Durable
  • Lightweight
  • Collapsible for easy travel
  • Comfortable grip

CONS:

  • It might come with faults.

FAQs On Can You Take Hiking Sticks On A Plane

Can I Take My Hiking Sticks On A Plane?

Unfortunately, ski and hiking poles are not allowed as carry-ons and the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) will not allow hiking sticks as checked bags. There are exceptions to bringing hiking sticks as a carry-on if you require them for walking assistance.

Can You Bring Walking Sticks On A Plane? 

Yes, you can and most airlines will allow passengers to bring a walking stick onto the plane with them if they need it to aid their mobility. But, your walking sticks must be able to fit into overhead luggage and able to collapse before allowing it to carry into a plane.

Can You Take A Wooden Walking Sticks On A Plane?

Yes, you can take your wooden walking sticks on an airplane if you require it for assistance and mobility but you will need to let a TSA officer know about it and they will examine your walking cane before allowing it onto the plane.

can you take hiking sticks on a plane

Conclusion

After reading this article, I hope it answers your question: Can you take hiking sticks on a plane with all the rules and regulations behind bringing hiking sticks on an airplane.

There are ways to carry your hiking sticks but not as a carry-on, and there are exemptions to these rules if you need hiking sticks for medical purposes and the step-by-step process of what will happen if you are going through a security check-up.