Can you or should you bring your hiking backpack on a plane? The question of flying with a hiking backpack is one that trips up many hikers. Maybe you’re even considering investing in a sleek, smaller travel pack just to avoid any potential airport drama.
In this guide, I’m going to lay it all out for you. Can you take your hiking backpack as a carry-on, or should you check it in? How do you protect your gear from the rough and tumble of air travel? And just how big can your backpack be before it causes issues at the gate?
I’ll answer these questions with all the details you need, so by the end of this article, you’ll have peace of mind and a clear plan for your next high-flying adventure.
Can You Fly With a Hiking Backpack?
Yes, you absolutely can fly with a hiking backpack and many airlines allow you to bring it on a plane. But, like anything worth doing, it comes with a bit of a playbook.
- Size – Overhead bins and under-seat spaces have their limits. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a backpack that’s 40 liters or less if you’re planning to carry it on. Anything bigger, and you might have to check it in and nobody likes waiting around at baggage claim.
- Pack Smart – This isn’t just about what you bring, but how you pack it. Keep it neat and avoid any loose straps that could get caught. Airlines love it when your bag looks tidy and won’t cause chaos during loading and unloading. A rain cover can do wonders here, keeping everything tight and right.
- Protection is Key – If checking your bag is the only way to go, consider a protective bag or a simple duffel to wrap your backpack in. This keeps those straps and buckles safe from the hungry luggage conveyor belts.
- Know Before You Go – Every airline has its own set of rules. Taking a few minutes to check out their baggage policies online can save you a lot of surprises (and possibly some cash) at the airport.
Flying with your hiking backpack is totally doable, and it doesn’t have to be a hassle. Just remember to pack smart, size wisely, and do a little research beforehand.
How Big of a Backpack Can You Fly with?
Most airlines have a pretty relaxed approach when it comes to carry-ons as long as they’re within volume that should be less than 40 liters and dimensions of 22x14x9 inches (55x35x23 cm).
This is the general rule for most major airlines, but it’s always best to check with the specific airline you’re flying with. Some budget airlines may have stricter size restrictions and may charge extra if your backpack exceeds their limits.
But what if your backpack is a bit more on the generous side? Before you start worrying about having to check it in, consider removing the frame. Some hiking backpacks come with a removable frame which, when taken out, can make your pack slimmer and more flexible.
Without the frame, your backpack might just pass as a carry-on, sliding into the overhead compartment with ease.
However, sneaking anything bigger than 40 liters through security is still a gamble. Always, and I mean always, check with your airline before you head to the airport.
What Can You Bring on a Plane in Your Hiking Backpack?
We’ve already know that you absolutetly can fly with your hiking backpack, and explained the right size and tricks to make it fit. But what can you actually pack in your backpack without running into any trouble at airport security?
As hikers, we’ve got our go-to gear that feels almost as necessary as air, such as sleeping bags, tents, cooking gear, and maybe even a favorite hiking pole. However, when it comes to flying, not everything we love can come along for the ride in our carry-on.
Before we dig into what doesn’t make the cut for carry-on, remember that most of your basic hiking gear is usually fine. Clothes, food that isn’t liquid (so yes to trail mix, no to soup), and your empty water bottle are all good to go.
Having this out of the way, here’s a list of things that you should avoid packing:
- Sharp objects (like knives or large scissors). Keep those at home or check them.
- Liquids over 3.4 ounces. Yep, this includes your big bottle of bug spray or sunscreen.
- Camping fuel. Definitely a no-go in both carry-on and checked bags.
- Hiking poles. These can be tricky. Some airlines might allow them as carry-on if they’re packed properly, but others might ask you to check them in.
- Tools (like axes, saws, or large multi-tools). Best to leave these behind unless you’re checking a bag.
If you’re wondering about a specific item, the TSA has a super handy page dedicated to sports and camping gear that covers a lot of the items us hikers like to bring along. Check out their website at TSA’s page on sporting and camping for a full list of what you can and cannot bring in your hiking backpack.
How to Protect Your Hiking Backpack on a Plane?
We’ve already know whether you can bring your hiking backpack on a plane and what things you can pack inside it. However, knowing how to properly protect your backpack is also important to make sure it arrives safely at your destination.
Wrap It Up
A simple solution is to use a protective bag or cover. These come in all shapes and sizes, and they do a great job at shielding your backpack from the rough-and-tumble of airport conveyor belts and cargo holds. You can even use a sturdy trash bag – it might not be glamorous, but it gets the job done.
Tame Straps
Backpack straps love to get tangled, caught, or pulled on just about anything they can find. To avoid a this, make sure to tighten all the adjustable straps and secure the loose ends.
Even better, if your backpack has a way to tuck or cover the straps, go for it. This keeps everything neat and tidy, and reduces the risk of your backpack going on an unexpected adventure of its own.
Consider Using a Lock
You don’t need Fort Knox-level security, but a simple luggage lock can deter curious hands and provide a bit of peace of mind. Just remember that if you’re flying to or within certain places (like the USA), you’ll need a TSA-approved lock so security can check your bag if they need to without breaking the lock.
Think About What’s Inside
We know you can’t bring sharp objects or large bottles of liquids in your carry-on, but if you’re checking your backpack, these rules are a bit more relaxed.
However, always remember to pack your valuables (like your camera or phone) in your carry-on. Luggage does sometimes get lost, and it’s best not to have all your eggs in one basket.
Can You Bring a Baby Hiking Backpack on a Plane?
Flying with your baby’s hiking backpack is also totally doable. Most airlines are pretty cool about letting your baby’s hiking backpack come along for the ride, but it’s always smart to check the size restrictions on the airline’s website.
You want to make sure your backpack fits in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. If it’s a bit too bulky, no worries – you can usually check it in with your other bags.
Strapping in your little adventurer and navigating through the airport might feel like you’re trekking through the wilderness, but remember, the metal frame in the backpack will need to go through security.
You might need to take your child out of their carrier so it can be properly scanned. A minor detour on your adventure, but totally manageable!
Conclusion
As you can see, you absolutely can fly with your hiking backpack to pretty much wherever your heart desires. It’s all about remembering those small but important rules about volume, size, and protection, not to mention being mindful of what you pack inside.
Hiking in different countries is a one-of-a-kind experience that can fill your soul and stretch your legs. With just a little bit of know-how, navigating the airport with your hiking backpack shouldn’t be a problem anymore!
Lukas Heller
Hey there! I’m Lukas, co-founder of BigfootHiking.com, alongside my adventurous wife Martha. Originally from Germany, I landed in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2015, where I’ve been scouting out new trails ever since (though they’re getting scarce!). By day, I’m a software developer, but my heart belongs to hiking – I’m always plotting our next trip. When I’m not coding or on the trails, you’ll find me hanging out with our Pit Bull, Zeus.
