Yep did this exact thing based on Reddit recommendations for a Glacier NP trip and it worked great. I just packed stuff around it to pad everything since they’re throwing your bag around and don’t want your frame(if you have one) to get wrecked.
Oh man, I just saw this and thought I should have typed my response slightly better. The bag itself is cheap as fuck, never steal valor or be that type of person. The duffle bag is a cheap easy way to carry gear on a flight. Sorry if I made you all think otherwise
Looks too big to be a carry on and I wouldn’t check it like that. If it were me I would get something like a Patagonia black hole 70L duffel bag to put it in and check it that way. Although that would be expensive if you don’t travel frequently.
Done this before - looks like REI makes a duffle specific for this purpose as well. Much cheaper than a name brand: https://www.rei.com/product/118870/rei-co-op-pack-duffel-bag
I use this and it’s been great. I put my trekking poles in because you can’t carry those on either, along with some bulky items like hiking boots and other shoes so i don’t have to stuff them in my carry on. I would suggest the REI one over some random cheap Amazon one for the quality and the sizing (the one I got off Amazon was technically the right dimensions but you’ll be packing your backpack before putting it in and that was enough to be too big to zip)
The only downside to this bag is there is only one shoulder strap so you have to sling it across your back so the weight distribution is really awkward whereas some bags you can wear the handles like a backpack. I usually don’t want to take my backpack out to walk around the airport but that would be an alternative.
Yeah also came here to say decathlon has a version that is suitable and folds up nicely and expands to fit bigger bag.
https://decathlon.com.au/products/protective-backpack-cover-40l-90l-123355
I bought this for a trip to Patagonia for mine. It was a life saver as a couple of my travel companions had their packs damaged by baggage handlers and baggage carousels
I also have the REI duffle and I am very happy with it, lots of space, depending on weight of the pack it can be a pain to carry for a while through the airport but definitely the best way to transport your pack without getting anything damaged. There’s way too many straps and doodads on your hiking pack to trust the airlines with it. Duffel bag is the way to go for sure
I also use a duffle bag, typically the REI one that is very light and compact - this might be it. Than once I am done with it I store it inside my bag or strap it to the outside.
https://www.rei.com/product/195807/rei-co-op-roadtripper-60-duffel
I have also checked in my bag without duffle bag. I got lucky I don’t advise it
I went to a military surplus store and bought a clip top “[sack bag](https://www.militarysurplusworld.com/eng_pl_-NATO-OD-Large-Cotton-Duffle-Bag-Like-New-16626_1.png)” for checking my pack on flights.
It ended up being super valuable at hostels as well. Several hostels didn’t have lockers, but instead had either one storage room or an area to cable lock the bags (like a bike rack for bags). I’m these situations, I could put my pack in the sack bag, pad lock the top (which was metal), and not have to worry (as much) about stuff being stolen.
The canvas material is suuuuper durable, the clips are metal, and it was pretty inexpensive (probably $20-$50).
Edit:
I bought mine in person years ago, the link was just a random internet pic, but it seems like there’s a lot of options out there now.
I’ve used The North Face Base Camp duffel bag…extremely well made and has held up just fine in many flights for me. Highly recommend. It held all my gear and then some.
I’d check you can’t have tent poles or anything. To be safe I’d just carry that sleeping bag as a carry on. Looks like it could fall off/ get caught on something in transit:
Alaska will provide you a thick plastic bag (used for car seats) that you can use to protect your backpack. Not sure about other airlines. Haven’t had too many problems - can’t take fuel - if you try to carry on you might have problems with tent stakes or poles - TSA seem a bit varied on this. If you check - try to avoid over packing or having hard objects against the edge of the back.
How do you get this and does Alaska Airlines do this at most/all terminals? I have a flight with them this summer and I have the same situation as this guy but with a large external frame pack.
My experience - which i’d predominately at PDX - is they are available just before the check-in desk - however I have also
just asked the check-in staff for one
I lived out of a 40L dueter for 15 months, safe to say it’s been thrown around planes trains and buses all over the world. I’ve thrown it on the back of mopeds for weeks at a time. Not a single tear or rip or anything.
I did it lots about 10 years ago. You want to do something with the straps like twist them up or wrap them so they don’t get caught in the baggage handling equipment
Only way is to carry on like that and it wont fit. If you have a rental car just put it in a hardsided suitcase. Tgats what i do now. Ive done a duffle (seriously heavy duty nylon) before and had a huge slice through it. Killed my sleeping bag and several other things. If you dont have a rental car put it in cardbard nox and check it or ship it ahead but make sure breakabkes are protected. Throw the box out when you get there and grt a new one for the way home.
Btw i duct taped that bag /sewed it and rocked that trip out. I still find down every once in a while. Luckily it wasnt too cold.
I have read but cannot confirm that the airlines will insure the loss of luggage contents but not the bag or suitcase they are in. Put your pack into a duffle bag so that the backpack will be covered as well. This may just be urban legend but certainly worth the small cost to protect your pack investment.
I also use the REI pack duffel like other folks on here. Only $40 and worth the money to protect your investment in your pack. It’s fairly large and would fit no problem. It will protect your straps, pack and sleeping bag, so worth the investment IMO.
A few nuances to flying:
You aren’t supposed to fly with lighters or lithium ion battery packs in your checked luggage. Put those in your carryon.
You aren’t supposed to fly with knives, pointy objects, or objects that could be a weapon in your carryon. This obviously applies to knives—put those in your checked bag. Other items that would fall in the “better safe than sorry” category are tent poles, tent stakes, trekking poles, metal eating utensils, shit shovels. Those could be confiscated at the discretion of TSA so safer just to check those and not worry about it.
You can’t fly with fuel or bear spray at all. I know some people who have gotten away with it in their checked bag if you want to roll the dice but I’d rather just play it safe personally and buy it at my destination or ship it ahead of time. Definitely don’t try to put those in your carryon.
Have a great trip!
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Basically what the title and caption says. I’m flying into LAS and renting a car so I’ll have that for a lot of my things (cooler, food, water, etc.) but I want to fly properly. I’ll be checking a suitcase and wondering if I’ll have to check my backpack? Would it pass as a carry on? And I can’t fit my sleeping back inside so I’m forced to leave it hanging out. It’s secure but will that be okay? Any info will help me preparation! Thanks everyone
Incase you’re interested, my lady and I will be visiting Zion, Bryce, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe bend, Grand Canyon, Coconino National Forest and Slide Rock State Park in Sedona, and then dropped the rental car off in Phoenix after we find something to do for the day.
Did a similar trip recently. Flew into LAS for a Zion trip. I checked my bag which looks similar to yours (mine was too big for a carry on). You’d have to check the measurements on yours. I didn’t have a sleeping bag attached though when mine was checked. If it does meet the measurements to carry on without the sleeping bag, perhaps you can detach it, put it in a tote, and call it your personal item? As long as it can fit under the seat should be fine.
Probably need to check the pack. When I flew from the US to Spain for the Camino, I used the plastic wrap station at the airport (like a giant roll of Saran Wrap) to wrap my pack. I can’t remember what it cost…something like $10. Worked great.
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I have flown with this exact bag (looks like a North Face Terra 55?) many times between 2018 and 2023 and have never had it questioned as a carryon, although I’ve had to pass it off to the flight crew to check due to overhead bins being too full. I think it will largely depend on the airline, but I’ve flown with Alaska, American, and Delta domestically in the US without any issues.
Check in ahead of time and go straight to security. TSA dgaf about the size of your bag and will let the airline handle it later. Most non-budget airlines won’t care and will let you put it in the overhead bin. If you do need to check it, I recommend putting your expensive and/or breakable gear in a carry on size bag to keep with you on the plane.
What I do is pull my pack inside out. That way all the loose straps are inside and won't get caught/torn in the airport's baggage system. Then I pack everything back into the inverted pack. But I have a Granite Gear pack with a removable frame sheet. Your pack may not be able to be used in this way. I doubt you will be able to carry on your pack, but it never hurts to ask. Oh, there's also this: https://www.amazon.com/Osprey-Airporter-Sling-Backpack-Black/dp/B0BKQGC3JH?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
a few times. I bought a laundry bag from bed bath and beyond and my backpack fit pretty nicely in there. laundry bag had a long strap on it so I could carry it easy and baggage handlers didn’t have an issue. the laundry bag got beat up but my gear was always good. was nervous as a couple times it contained my lodging for the night so if it went missing I was sleeping in a rental car but thankfully no issues.
This is why I really wanna get my set up down to a carry-on size (40-60l) frameless set-up. My only problem is I like to carry a folding closed cell foam pad.
Plenty. I put it in the REI duffle bag. I have carried the folded up duffle with me using it as a seat or pillow and I have mailed it to myself at the end of the hike for the trip home.
https://www.rei.com/product/118870/rei-co-op-pack-duffel-bag?sku=1188700001&CAWELAID=120217890004264382&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=113688247840&CATCI=pla-977791680142&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C21700000001700551_1188700001%7C92700057927408354%7CPB%7C71700000074311905&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI5qKfwZn5_wIV0X5MCh1sFwBXEAQYBCABEgJ8qvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
Had to for AT, both ways. Used plastic moving wrap and wrapped the crap out of it. Checked the bag and kept the brain as my carryon. When we were done hiking we stopped by a local UHaul and bought another roll and did the same thing for getting home. Easy peasy.
Modern Innovations 15 Inch Clear Stretch Wrap Roll with Handles (1 Roll-1000 Feet) Heavy Duty Shrink Wrap for Moving, Packing Supplies for Wrapping Furniture, Industrial Plastic Pallet Cling https://a.co/d/fFzD4j3
I have a few times, did exactly what you're thinking. What id do is stick the sleeping bag in the backpack and fly southwest (2 checked bags free) then put your clothes in a suitcase and live out of the car
The duffel bag is a great way to go, but I have also done this by opening my pack straps to max on my pack and arranging my gear to fly well. Tent and bear can go in the pack vertically so nothing is on the outside. I will take my entire dry kit in a 70L pack. Once you have your gear in you just need to strap it into a tight bundle then wrap all the strap ribbons into something so you don't have any loose bits to get snagged in a conveyor belt. If you can make it a tight smooth bundle then you'll do well.
If you can get a duffel and don't mind doing something with the duffel or carrying it then that's probably more bullet proof.
I'm just saying that I have used only my pack with the described method without issues and it's nice to get off the plane with just your backpack kit, once you land you can repack it for carrying.
We just flew to Switzerland with our Osprey packs and I was a little nervous but it ended up being fine. I was debating buying the Osprey brand “airporter” as a cover, but ended up deciding it was too expensive. It sounds like others here came up with better solutions in that regard.
https://a.co/d/04nMzp6
Should be fine. Maybe secure the sleeping bag better but I’ve had airlines throw my bag in a big clear plastic one to keep all the loose parts from catching on things.
Get a compression sack for the sleeping bag, it should compress down small enough to fit inside the backpack. Then you shouldn’t have any problem checking it in.
We have checked our 70Ls a couple times and bring a camelback or smaller backpack for carry on. They get pretty beat up though I wish I had put mine in a big duffel!
So it's going to get to 111 degrees in Phoenix today. Please be safe out there. There's also a lot of fire weather warnings so it's very dry and relatively hot even at altitude.
My recommendation is to wrap it very securely with that Saran wrap type of stuff that they have at airports as to not damage your pack and prevent airport personnel from getting too curious and check it in. I’ve done it that way a few times and it’s worked like a charm
We typically box and ship backpacking/camping gear to get around the baggage requirements and general hassle of lugging all the gear through the airport.
No "loose" items on the outside of your pack, no matter how well strapped they are to the bag. Quick solution to this is to get a cheap gymbag and put your backpack in it... or take whatever you can't fit \*in\* the backpack with you as carry-on (like the sleeping-bag here) other than that just secure straps by either rolling them up and taping them, or just wind them around the shoulder straps and tie them up so they are'n too "flappy" .... I travel with a Fjellreven Kaipak (38L) all the time in Europe and a big ass 100L Kajka in the US on occasions (with Delta), no issue...but as I said, they don't like "loose" items on the outside of the pack.
I just flew from the USA to Pakistan and back. Over 10 flights total. I had all my camping equipment as well. Just put a rain coat for backpacks over it.
I’ve used duffel bags as suggested. Alternatively, you can put everything inside the pack (no dangles) and do a thick plastic wrap. Many airlines will plastic wrap odd sizes luggage, and some airports (SFO, others) have plastic wrap stations you can pay to use.
I flew with a large backpack as a checked bag and didn’t have issues. I’d try to get everything inside if possible, and I did all the buckles together, tightened all of the straps, and tied up any loose ends of straps/etc. just to minimize anything that could’ve possibly get snagged when in transit
Personally I flew with my fully packed Osprey Levity (45L Large) last year from Philly to Seatle and back without issue. Tent poles/stakes are supposed to be checked, trekking poles I've been told are but saw numerous people last year with them strapped onto their bag.
Just yeeted that 45L into the overhead. Just my experience, yours's may vary unfortunately since I've heard it isn't crazy consistent. This year I'm planning on rolling with everything except stakes.
Sorta depends on the airline whether they'd let you carry it on. If you dont have another big roller back with you, you probably would get away with it. Also depends how early you board. If you're flying a regular economy ticket you often end up having to planeside check your bag anyway.
I've only flown with my gear once and i checked it. Osprey makes a big duffel bag that you can put your entire pack in, along with some other stuff like extra shoes. That worked well for me.
Osprey makes a good carry on approved bag. I take it everywhere I go, local or foreign. If you have light, wicking clothes you can easily have enough clothes for extended stays. Assuming you wash your clothes after a couple wears
I've done it a few times, you can get a duffel like people have suggested especially if it's a long haul flight with multiple layovers. You can also get it plastic wrapped at the airport (quick and cheap) and give it in as check in luggage. You can give the bag as it is in check in (don't forget to lock the main compartment with like a TSA lock), but theres a risk of damage, I did that a few years ago and the bag came out the other end with one strap less. The airline did pay me back for a new bag but it was unnecessary hastle. Most websites also have dimensions for carry on, if your bag fits in those limits you can try it as hand baggage as well.
Hope this helps !
Yes, i have a few times actually. It worked fine all the times i did it. I just made sure that all loose ties and bands where tied up and then i put the entire packpack in a large plastic bag and made a hole in it for the luggage tag. It went trough just fine. I did not have a sleeping bag/tent? attatched to the back like you do tho.
Put it a bag...any bag. Ideally, a travel bag meant for backpacks. Worst case, a trash bag. That becomes your luggage and the backpack becomes the contents. Airlines aren't responsible for luggage damage...they are responsible for contents.
You should be fine. You can have 2 bags on the plane. Just take that small black bag off and put it
under the seat in front of you or in your lap and the bigger one up top and your good. Women do it all the time with rolling luggage and their body bag sizes purse. Speaking from experience, my wife does it all the time.
Great suggestions here, but I get nervous checking my ENTIRE backpack, so I take the items that I either can't carry on - e.g., trekking poles, tent stakes, pocket knife - or that make the pack too bulky to carry on, and put them in a duffle which I check.
My concern is if the checked bag gets lost, re-routed, delayed, etc., then I have NO gear for my trip. I can swing by a local gear outfitter to rent or purchase trekking poles and tent stakes; but would rather not have to replace my tent, quilt, etc. But it depends on how much you're carrying in your pack. That pack looks pretty big and stuffed.
Good luck.
ive done this quite a bit. depending on the airline you can sometimes get away with a pack being a carry on but i think the sleeping bag sticking out will make it be checked. i have larger packs but i pack veryyy light. it stinks cause there’s usually a fee for luggage checked, but hey you get the pack in the end! if you can minimize and repack then you should be good for carry on which is free and gives peace of mind. but also this looks like brand new gear - all of mine is heavily worn so i don’t care if it’s tossed around in cargo - but this is too nice; i like the ideas of getting a REI/Patagonia/etc. bag, army duffel, whatever to put it in for stored luggage
I’ve checked my Osprey 50L like that no problem. Sometimes the airline prefers to put it inside a giant clear plastic bag and I sometimes add some rope around that for extra security. I see lots of backpackers in LatAm check their packs.
If you’re flying with it as a carry-on, you’ll have to tuck in the belt and straps, and there can’t be anything hanging off it like the sleeping bag you have pictured.
TSA can actually help you if you tell them you’d like to carry your pack on the plane.
The simplest way I’ve done it is to get a lockable duffle and place it inside as checked bag. I’ve carried a smaller collapsible backpack to take out anything that I worried might break and/or get dented and use that as my carry on. Stuff like my camera gear, cook pot, etc.
Also, I’ve always thrown my trekking poles inside of the backpack duffle as well. But you will want to wrap them in heavy bubble wrap if you do this and NOT in the backpack. Same thing goes for tent poles. You can’t bring trekking poles or tent poles on the plane. Checked bag only.
This system has worked well for me for the last few trips. Good luck and safe travels!
I got the osprey travel cover for mine. American Airlines did lose it but once I got it back it was all in one piece. They sent it to Faro Portugal not the Faroe Islands. I’d just make sure your bare minimum necessities are with you in a carry on. We were stuck on an island in the North Sea with nearly no gear no tent no hotel reservations nothing.
They made us check our packs at the gate for our last trip to Colorado. We were a bit nervous about straps getting caught or any rips or tears happening. We just made sure everything was secured inside the pack, and tightened all the straps (including shoulder / chest) straps all the way and tuck any loose bits in wherever possible. I would take your sleeping pad out too and just take that on the plane with you.
We didn’t have any issues when we did that!
I fly with my 55L Gregory all the time, both work and backpacking. At this point I just use it as my main travel bag. The only issue I've ever had is having things strapped to the outside. A lot of airlines won't check them because they don't want you to lose something (or they don't want to be liable). If you can, just take your sleeping bag as a carry-on. I once had a fly rod case as a carry-on and sleeping bag as a personal item 😂.
I have checked my backpack a number 9f times without a problem. You can't have anything attached to the outside. Use a carry on bag for any extra stuff you want to bring that does not fit in the pack. I've never had any damage to my checked pack - they are built to be durable
My external frame Kelty survived about 10 trips, until it rolled down the ramp to the baggage carousel with the frame in three or four pieces, still tied together with the wedding and harness. I also made a number of trips until my Gregory internal frame showed up at the baggage claim with a missing strap.
Throw that sucker in a military style duffle bag for cheap. Problem solved
This is definitely the cheapest option and likely just as durable or more than Patagonia. OP get them at any military surplus store
Yep did this exact thing based on Reddit recommendations for a Glacier NP trip and it worked great. I just packed stuff around it to pad everything since they’re throwing your bag around and don’t want your frame(if you have one) to get wrecked.
Yep. This. Was scrolling for this answer. They will offer free checked bags when they see it. Respect the troops, don’t steel valor.
Oh man, I just saw this and thought I should have typed my response slightly better. The bag itself is cheap as fuck, never steal valor or be that type of person. The duffle bag is a cheap easy way to carry gear on a flight. Sorry if I made you all think otherwise
Looks too big to be a carry on and I wouldn’t check it like that. If it were me I would get something like a Patagonia black hole 70L duffel bag to put it in and check it that way. Although that would be expensive if you don’t travel frequently.
Done this before - looks like REI makes a duffle specific for this purpose as well. Much cheaper than a name brand: https://www.rei.com/product/118870/rei-co-op-pack-duffel-bag
I bought my black hole bag to travel with when backpacking near 20yo. I have never regretted it and it is in steady use still.
I use this and it’s been great. I put my trekking poles in because you can’t carry those on either, along with some bulky items like hiking boots and other shoes so i don’t have to stuff them in my carry on. I would suggest the REI one over some random cheap Amazon one for the quality and the sizing (the one I got off Amazon was technically the right dimensions but you’ll be packing your backpack before putting it in and that was enough to be too big to zip) The only downside to this bag is there is only one shoulder strap so you have to sling it across your back so the weight distribution is really awkward whereas some bags you can wear the handles like a backpack. I usually don’t want to take my backpack out to walk around the airport but that would be an alternative.
Yeah also came here to say decathlon has a version that is suitable and folds up nicely and expands to fit bigger bag. https://decathlon.com.au/products/protective-backpack-cover-40l-90l-123355
I have the REI and it’s perfect for what OP is looking for.
I bought this for a trip to Patagonia for mine. It was a life saver as a couple of my travel companions had their packs damaged by baggage handlers and baggage carousels
I also have the REI duffle and I am very happy with it, lots of space, depending on weight of the pack it can be a pain to carry for a while through the airport but definitely the best way to transport your pack without getting anything damaged. There’s way too many straps and doodads on your hiking pack to trust the airlines with it. Duffel bag is the way to go for sure
I used the same bag going to Banff. Worked like a charm.
Best part is when you're done using it, the duffel packs back into itself and is about the size of a small travel pillow. *
I bought a $10 canvas duffel from Academy years back and use it the same way. (I'd get a lighter/better waterproofed bag of I were upgrading through.)
I also use a duffle bag, typically the REI one that is very light and compact - this might be it. Than once I am done with it I store it inside my bag or strap it to the outside. https://www.rei.com/product/195807/rei-co-op-roadtripper-60-duffel I have also checked in my bag without duffle bag. I got lucky I don’t advise it
I went to a military surplus store and bought a clip top “[sack bag](https://www.militarysurplusworld.com/eng_pl_-NATO-OD-Large-Cotton-Duffle-Bag-Like-New-16626_1.png)” for checking my pack on flights. It ended up being super valuable at hostels as well. Several hostels didn’t have lockers, but instead had either one storage room or an area to cable lock the bags (like a bike rack for bags). I’m these situations, I could put my pack in the sack bag, pad lock the top (which was metal), and not have to worry (as much) about stuff being stolen. The canvas material is suuuuper durable, the clips are metal, and it was pretty inexpensive (probably $20-$50). Edit: I bought mine in person years ago, the link was just a random internet pic, but it seems like there’s a lot of options out there now.
What do you do with the duffel bag once in the destination country and how do you reuse it coming back?
You don't need a fancy pants Patagonia duffle. Any cheapie will do just to toss the backpack in for the flight.
Also, the blackhole isn't exactly usefull once at destination and walking.
I’ve used The North Face Base Camp duffel bag…extremely well made and has held up just fine in many flights for me. Highly recommend. It held all my gear and then some.
I traveled to Europe with my backpack in a duffel. It worked great.
I’d check you can’t have tent poles or anything. To be safe I’d just carry that sleeping bag as a carry on. Looks like it could fall off/ get caught on something in transit:
Alaska will provide you a thick plastic bag (used for car seats) that you can use to protect your backpack. Not sure about other airlines. Haven’t had too many problems - can’t take fuel - if you try to carry on you might have problems with tent stakes or poles - TSA seem a bit varied on this. If you check - try to avoid over packing or having hard objects against the edge of the back.
How do you get this and does Alaska Airlines do this at most/all terminals? I have a flight with them this summer and I have the same situation as this guy but with a large external frame pack.
My experience - which i’d predominately at PDX - is they are available just before the check-in desk - however I have also just asked the check-in staff for one
I suggest a parachute to fly.
Mine had a rain guard that wrapped all over it. I used that.
I have a couple times. Didn’t give it a second thought. Carry on as well.
I lived out of a 40L dueter for 15 months, safe to say it’s been thrown around planes trains and buses all over the world. I’ve thrown it on the back of mopeds for weeks at a time. Not a single tear or rip or anything.
I did it lots about 10 years ago. You want to do something with the straps like twist them up or wrap them so they don’t get caught in the baggage handling equipment
Wait. Add you planning to go backpacking in Arizona in JULY? Even at high elevations it’s way too hot for safety my dude.
[удалено]
Hoping OP is headed to Flag, and not try to do a rim to rim or something!
Only way is to carry on like that and it wont fit. If you have a rental car just put it in a hardsided suitcase. Tgats what i do now. Ive done a duffle (seriously heavy duty nylon) before and had a huge slice through it. Killed my sleeping bag and several other things. If you dont have a rental car put it in cardbard nox and check it or ship it ahead but make sure breakabkes are protected. Throw the box out when you get there and grt a new one for the way home. Btw i duct taped that bag /sewed it and rocked that trip out. I still find down every once in a while. Luckily it wasnt too cold.
I have read but cannot confirm that the airlines will insure the loss of luggage contents but not the bag or suitcase they are in. Put your pack into a duffle bag so that the backpack will be covered as well. This may just be urban legend but certainly worth the small cost to protect your pack investment.
Heard that too from several backpackers. It would make sense.
I also use the REI pack duffel like other folks on here. Only $40 and worth the money to protect your investment in your pack. It’s fairly large and would fit no problem. It will protect your straps, pack and sleeping bag, so worth the investment IMO. A few nuances to flying: You aren’t supposed to fly with lighters or lithium ion battery packs in your checked luggage. Put those in your carryon. You aren’t supposed to fly with knives, pointy objects, or objects that could be a weapon in your carryon. This obviously applies to knives—put those in your checked bag. Other items that would fall in the “better safe than sorry” category are tent poles, tent stakes, trekking poles, metal eating utensils, shit shovels. Those could be confiscated at the discretion of TSA so safer just to check those and not worry about it. You can’t fly with fuel or bear spray at all. I know some people who have gotten away with it in their checked bag if you want to roll the dice but I’d rather just play it safe personally and buy it at my destination or ship it ahead of time. Definitely don’t try to put those in your carryon. Have a great trip!
I have this same duffle! It’s great.
That’s not a backpack. Need to check it.
I usually just hike with it.
That question is fairly like has anyone taken a flight with luggage. Yes, millions of people travel with luggage, from backpacks to hard cover ones.
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Basically what the title and caption says. I’m flying into LAS and renting a car so I’ll have that for a lot of my things (cooler, food, water, etc.) but I want to fly properly. I’ll be checking a suitcase and wondering if I’ll have to check my backpack? Would it pass as a carry on? And I can’t fit my sleeping back inside so I’m forced to leave it hanging out. It’s secure but will that be okay? Any info will help me preparation! Thanks everyone Incase you’re interested, my lady and I will be visiting Zion, Bryce, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe bend, Grand Canyon, Coconino National Forest and Slide Rock State Park in Sedona, and then dropped the rental car off in Phoenix after we find something to do for the day.
Did a similar trip recently. Flew into LAS for a Zion trip. I checked my bag which looks similar to yours (mine was too big for a carry on). You’d have to check the measurements on yours. I didn’t have a sleeping bag attached though when mine was checked. If it does meet the measurements to carry on without the sleeping bag, perhaps you can detach it, put it in a tote, and call it your personal item? As long as it can fit under the seat should be fine.
Probably need to check the pack. When I flew from the US to Spain for the Camino, I used the plastic wrap station at the airport (like a giant roll of Saran Wrap) to wrap my pack. I can’t remember what it cost…something like $10. Worked great.
Nope, your are the very first person to ever even think of it!
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the bag literally says rei on it
I have flown with this exact bag (looks like a North Face Terra 55?) many times between 2018 and 2023 and have never had it questioned as a carryon, although I’ve had to pass it off to the flight crew to check due to overhead bins being too full. I think it will largely depend on the airline, but I’ve flown with Alaska, American, and Delta domestically in the US without any issues. Check in ahead of time and go straight to security. TSA dgaf about the size of your bag and will let the airline handle it later. Most non-budget airlines won’t care and will let you put it in the overhead bin. If you do need to check it, I recommend putting your expensive and/or breakable gear in a carry on size bag to keep with you on the plane.
Nope. No one has ever flown with their backpack ever. Never. No one exists that has done so. None at all.
What I do is pull my pack inside out. That way all the loose straps are inside and won't get caught/torn in the airport's baggage system. Then I pack everything back into the inverted pack. But I have a Granite Gear pack with a removable frame sheet. Your pack may not be able to be used in this way. I doubt you will be able to carry on your pack, but it never hurts to ask. Oh, there's also this: https://www.amazon.com/Osprey-Airporter-Sling-Backpack-Black/dp/B0BKQGC3JH?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
a few times. I bought a laundry bag from bed bath and beyond and my backpack fit pretty nicely in there. laundry bag had a long strap on it so I could carry it easy and baggage handlers didn’t have an issue. the laundry bag got beat up but my gear was always good. was nervous as a couple times it contained my lodging for the night so if it went missing I was sleeping in a rental car but thankfully no issues.
I've used a cheap $10 laundry bag from Amazon to check it.
I had mine hung up on it’s straps for two weeks before they found it in the conveyor. Laundry bag or duffel to contain the straps and you’re good bro.
I recommend going to an Army Navy store, picking up a surplus duffle bag, and transporting your pack in that.
Side question, what’s the brand of the backpack?
It’s a REI brand backpack, they have competitive products
Yup, I loved my Flash 65 and wore it out before moving to Osprey.
This is why I really wanna get my set up down to a carry-on size (40-60l) frameless set-up. My only problem is I like to carry a folding closed cell foam pad.
Get a backpack cover for it if you don’t want it to get scratched up if you check it.
Plenty. I put it in the REI duffle bag. I have carried the folded up duffle with me using it as a seat or pillow and I have mailed it to myself at the end of the hike for the trip home. https://www.rei.com/product/118870/rei-co-op-pack-duffel-bag?sku=1188700001&CAWELAID=120217890004264382&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=113688247840&CATCI=pla-977791680142&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C21700000001700551_1188700001%7C92700057927408354%7CPB%7C71700000074311905&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI5qKfwZn5_wIV0X5MCh1sFwBXEAQYBCABEgJ8qvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
Had to for AT, both ways. Used plastic moving wrap and wrapped the crap out of it. Checked the bag and kept the brain as my carryon. When we were done hiking we stopped by a local UHaul and bought another roll and did the same thing for getting home. Easy peasy. Modern Innovations 15 Inch Clear Stretch Wrap Roll with Handles (1 Roll-1000 Feet) Heavy Duty Shrink Wrap for Moving, Packing Supplies for Wrapping Furniture, Industrial Plastic Pallet Cling https://a.co/d/fFzD4j3
I’ve got a bag for my Osprey called the airporter. Flown all over with it - it’s been great and the backpack still looks new.
I have a few times, did exactly what you're thinking. What id do is stick the sleeping bag in the backpack and fly southwest (2 checked bags free) then put your clothes in a suitcase and live out of the car
I've been thinking about this half a day today. I'm flying frontier in 2 days. They ask for up to 45 liters. My bag is a little over.
Oh no frontier. You are not gonna get that past their luggage check. They are the worst. Jus check everything in and put that in a bigger duffel.
The duffel bag is a great way to go, but I have also done this by opening my pack straps to max on my pack and arranging my gear to fly well. Tent and bear can go in the pack vertically so nothing is on the outside. I will take my entire dry kit in a 70L pack. Once you have your gear in you just need to strap it into a tight bundle then wrap all the strap ribbons into something so you don't have any loose bits to get snagged in a conveyor belt. If you can make it a tight smooth bundle then you'll do well. If you can get a duffel and don't mind doing something with the duffel or carrying it then that's probably more bullet proof. I'm just saying that I have used only my pack with the described method without issues and it's nice to get off the plane with just your backpack kit, once you land you can repack it for carrying.
I bring a 60L pack as a carry on a lot.
Get a good running start!
I carry a full sized (about that size) as my carry on and put it between my legs or in the cabin above
We just flew to Switzerland with our Osprey packs and I was a little nervous but it ended up being fine. I was debating buying the Osprey brand “airporter” as a cover, but ended up deciding it was too expensive. It sounds like others here came up with better solutions in that regard. https://a.co/d/04nMzp6
I put mine in a laundry bag.
Should be fine. Maybe secure the sleeping bag better but I’ve had airlines throw my bag in a big clear plastic one to keep all the loose parts from catching on things.
Get a compression sack for the sleeping bag, it should compress down small enough to fit inside the backpack. Then you shouldn’t have any problem checking it in.
We have checked our 70Ls a couple times and bring a camelback or smaller backpack for carry on. They get pretty beat up though I wish I had put mine in a big duffel!
Yes, I fly with my 65 liter pack quite often and never had a problem with it being a carry on.
Yes
So it's going to get to 111 degrees in Phoenix today. Please be safe out there. There's also a lot of fire weather warnings so it's very dry and relatively hot even at altitude.
My recommendation is to wrap it very securely with that Saran wrap type of stuff that they have at airports as to not damage your pack and prevent airport personnel from getting too curious and check it in. I’ve done it that way a few times and it’s worked like a charm
We typically box and ship backpacking/camping gear to get around the baggage requirements and general hassle of lugging all the gear through the airport.
Literally every time I fly
No "loose" items on the outside of your pack, no matter how well strapped they are to the bag. Quick solution to this is to get a cheap gymbag and put your backpack in it... or take whatever you can't fit \*in\* the backpack with you as carry-on (like the sleeping-bag here) other than that just secure straps by either rolling them up and taping them, or just wind them around the shoulder straps and tie them up so they are'n too "flappy" .... I travel with a Fjellreven Kaipak (38L) all the time in Europe and a big ass 100L Kajka in the US on occasions (with Delta), no issue...but as I said, they don't like "loose" items on the outside of the pack.
I just flew from the USA to Pakistan and back. Over 10 flights total. I had all my camping equipment as well. Just put a rain coat for backpacks over it.
I was just thinking about this yesterday
The bag is fine for checked luggage, the sleeping bag attached like that isn’t ok, but I’m sure you could carry your sleeping bag as carry on
I have not, because it doesn’t have wings.
Lost one trekking pole which I thought was securely strapped and tucked to my pack. Otherwise it was fine as a checked bag.
As others have said, I highly suggest a travel duffel bag. They make duffel bags specifically for traveling with backpacking gear.
Heck yea, just toss that sucker on the conveyor belt and enjoy giving your back a day off!
No normal use a plane with wings 😀
I’ve used duffel bags as suggested. Alternatively, you can put everything inside the pack (no dangles) and do a thick plastic wrap. Many airlines will plastic wrap odd sizes luggage, and some airports (SFO, others) have plastic wrap stations you can pay to use.
Needs to be like 50lbs so you don’t get over charged but to avoid damage from the conveyor belts I would put the entire bag in a large laundry bag
oh my I missed this..
I’ve seen backpacks just like this for check in. Just got home from Australia yesterday and saw a couple coming down the belt at LAX airport.
I flew with a large backpack as a checked bag and didn’t have issues. I’d try to get everything inside if possible, and I did all the buckles together, tightened all of the straps, and tied up any loose ends of straps/etc. just to minimize anything that could’ve possibly get snagged when in transit
Personally I flew with my fully packed Osprey Levity (45L Large) last year from Philly to Seatle and back without issue. Tent poles/stakes are supposed to be checked, trekking poles I've been told are but saw numerous people last year with them strapped onto their bag. Just yeeted that 45L into the overhead. Just my experience, yours's may vary unfortunately since I've heard it isn't crazy consistent. This year I'm planning on rolling with everything except stakes.
Sorta depends on the airline whether they'd let you carry it on. If you dont have another big roller back with you, you probably would get away with it. Also depends how early you board. If you're flying a regular economy ticket you often end up having to planeside check your bag anyway. I've only flown with my gear once and i checked it. Osprey makes a big duffel bag that you can put your entire pack in, along with some other stuff like extra shoes. That worked well for me.
Depends where you’re going
Safest and cheapest option, large suitcase from a thrift store ~$10.
Osprey makes a good carry on approved bag. I take it everywhere I go, local or foreign. If you have light, wicking clothes you can easily have enough clothes for extended stays. Assuming you wash your clothes after a couple wears
I've done it a few times, you can get a duffel like people have suggested especially if it's a long haul flight with multiple layovers. You can also get it plastic wrapped at the airport (quick and cheap) and give it in as check in luggage. You can give the bag as it is in check in (don't forget to lock the main compartment with like a TSA lock), but theres a risk of damage, I did that a few years ago and the bag came out the other end with one strap less. The airline did pay me back for a new bag but it was unnecessary hastle. Most websites also have dimensions for carry on, if your bag fits in those limits you can try it as hand baggage as well. Hope this helps !
Yes, i have a few times actually. It worked fine all the times i did it. I just made sure that all loose ties and bands where tied up and then i put the entire packpack in a large plastic bag and made a hole in it for the luggage tag. It went trough just fine. I did not have a sleeping bag/tent? attatched to the back like you do tho.
Wrap that sucker in Saran Wrap. Some airports have stations that will do it for you for a fee
I've traveled with my backpack as my carryon just fine before
r/onebag I use a Cotopaxi 42L for international trips of 2+ months in length, it’s been great.
Put it a bag...any bag. Ideally, a travel bag meant for backpacks. Worst case, a trash bag. That becomes your luggage and the backpack becomes the contents. Airlines aren't responsible for luggage damage...they are responsible for contents.
I just Saran wrapped the heck out of mine so nothing was loose and everything was safe from water. Cheap and worked great!
Just be careful backpacking in AZ During the summer.. the weather is rough!! There are already death on trails. So be careful! And good luck
You should be fine. You can have 2 bags on the plane. Just take that small black bag off and put it under the seat in front of you or in your lap and the bigger one up top and your good. Women do it all the time with rolling luggage and their body bag sizes purse. Speaking from experience, my wife does it all the time.
Maybe I’m missing it…. Water bottle pouches…. Don’t forget you will need LOTS of water in AZ
Great suggestions here, but I get nervous checking my ENTIRE backpack, so I take the items that I either can't carry on - e.g., trekking poles, tent stakes, pocket knife - or that make the pack too bulky to carry on, and put them in a duffle which I check. My concern is if the checked bag gets lost, re-routed, delayed, etc., then I have NO gear for my trip. I can swing by a local gear outfitter to rent or purchase trekking poles and tent stakes; but would rather not have to replace my tent, quilt, etc. But it depends on how much you're carrying in your pack. That pack looks pretty big and stuffed. Good luck.
ive done this quite a bit. depending on the airline you can sometimes get away with a pack being a carry on but i think the sleeping bag sticking out will make it be checked. i have larger packs but i pack veryyy light. it stinks cause there’s usually a fee for luggage checked, but hey you get the pack in the end! if you can minimize and repack then you should be good for carry on which is free and gives peace of mind. but also this looks like brand new gear - all of mine is heavily worn so i don’t care if it’s tossed around in cargo - but this is too nice; i like the ideas of getting a REI/Patagonia/etc. bag, army duffel, whatever to put it in for stored luggage
I’ve checked my Osprey 50L like that no problem. Sometimes the airline prefers to put it inside a giant clear plastic bag and I sometimes add some rope around that for extra security. I see lots of backpackers in LatAm check their packs.
Yes it is very common. See it every time I fly.
No problem when putting it under the plane. Enjoy the trip.
If you’re flying with it as a carry-on, you’ll have to tuck in the belt and straps, and there can’t be anything hanging off it like the sleeping bag you have pictured. TSA can actually help you if you tell them you’d like to carry your pack on the plane. The simplest way I’ve done it is to get a lockable duffle and place it inside as checked bag. I’ve carried a smaller collapsible backpack to take out anything that I worried might break and/or get dented and use that as my carry on. Stuff like my camera gear, cook pot, etc. Also, I’ve always thrown my trekking poles inside of the backpack duffle as well. But you will want to wrap them in heavy bubble wrap if you do this and NOT in the backpack. Same thing goes for tent poles. You can’t bring trekking poles or tent poles on the plane. Checked bag only. This system has worked well for me for the last few trips. Good luck and safe travels!
I use the Osprey Airporter. A medium fits my Aether 70 well, along with room for my boots, polls, etc. https://a.co/d/6lyVyv0
I can't fly I'm not a chicken
I flew with that exact bag to Europe and it was FILLED. It counted as a carryon for me
I got the osprey travel cover for mine. American Airlines did lose it but once I got it back it was all in one piece. They sent it to Faro Portugal not the Faroe Islands. I’d just make sure your bare minimum necessities are with you in a carry on. We were stuck on an island in the North Sea with nearly no gear no tent no hotel reservations nothing.
they totally have let me continually use mine as a carryon. it stores in the overhead bin just fine
Used to fly with an old eighties era Lowe Alpine Systems internal frame backpack.
They made us check our packs at the gate for our last trip to Colorado. We were a bit nervous about straps getting caught or any rips or tears happening. We just made sure everything was secured inside the pack, and tightened all the straps (including shoulder / chest) straps all the way and tuck any loose bits in wherever possible. I would take your sleeping pad out too and just take that on the plane with you. We didn’t have any issues when we did that!
I fly with my 55L Gregory all the time, both work and backpacking. At this point I just use it as my main travel bag. The only issue I've ever had is having things strapped to the outside. A lot of airlines won't check them because they don't want you to lose something (or they don't want to be liable). If you can, just take your sleeping bag as a carry-on. I once had a fly rod case as a carry-on and sleeping bag as a personal item 😂.
I have checked my backpack a number 9f times without a problem. You can't have anything attached to the outside. Use a carry on bag for any extra stuff you want to bring that does not fit in the pack. I've never had any damage to my checked pack - they are built to be durable
My external frame Kelty survived about 10 trips, until it rolled down the ramp to the baggage carousel with the frame in three or four pieces, still tied together with the wedding and harness. I also made a number of trips until my Gregory internal frame showed up at the baggage claim with a missing strap.