Basic Tips For Traveling With Poles

Arrive early!!! VERY early. At LEAST 2 hours early. You never know what kind of problems you are going to run into, even with a pole friendly airline. Many ticket agents have never dealt with poles before and do not know the right codes to look up in the computer.

Pack your poles carefully. Your tube may be treated very roughly. Your pole bag may be ripped. Do everything within your power to pack the poles securly and safely.

Print out a copy of the airline's pole policy, from their website when possible. Find out what size plane your flight is scheduled to be on, and find out if your poles will fit on that plane.

Be nice to the ticket agents. They are just trying to do their job. If there is a problem, politely ask to speak to the supervisor.

Know the limit of liability on baggage. Flying with poles is risky. Know what you are getting into. Many airlines will make you sign a waiver releasing them from all liability. If the airline breaks your poles, getting them to reimburse you is nearly impossible.

All airlines have weight restrictions. Find out what they are and make sure your pole container is not too heavy. No airline will take anything over 100 pounds. Some will not take anything over 70 pounds.

Be sure to take your important meet gear in your carry on!