I will be doing a weeklong trip on the Colorado Trail this summer with some friends and we will be flying due to time constraints and money. I’ve been doing some research on flying with backpacking gear and/or shipping gear and have some concerns and questions in no particular order…
1. I have a 63L pack (ULA Ohm) which I’m a bit concerned about putting on the plane as checked baggage. I know a lot of people use either a large trash bag or duffle bag to put it in to protect it, but I’m more concerned about the carbon fiber frame (and maybe my trekking poles) getting crushed or broken. What is the best way to prevent it from getting damaged or could I take it as a carry on? I think it barley would meet the size requirements.
2. I’m also concerned about all of our gear making it to our destination with us. I’ve never personally lost luggage on a plane, but this would be a really cruddy trip for that to happen as we are traveling for a day, hiking for 6, and then traveling a day again with little room for screw ups. Has anyone shipped their packs before? What are some things to think about when doing so? (Which gear to not pack and take with while traveling?)
3. I know that fuel and stoves will need to be shipped for sure (I don’t want to risk not cleaning my stove properly and having it confiscated at the airport), but what about food? Should food be shipped ahead as well? I don’t see any reason why it can’t be put on a plane, but I’m concerned that security will throw a fit about pasta sides and tuna packets.
4. When shipping gear and possibly food, what is the best way to do that? Ship it to the hostel we’re staying at? A local post office? Will there need to be any special labeling for the stove and fuel?