Owais Crawford
If you're planning to travel with your skateboard, it's important to know the rules and regulations that apply. While the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows skateboards on board, each airline has its own policies regarding sports equipment as carry-on items. Some airlines permit skateboards as carry-on baggage, provided they adhere to standard size restrictions, while others only allow them as checked luggage. It's recommended to contact your airline or review their luggage policies online to ensure you're compliant with their specific regulations. Additionally, consider the practicalities of travelling with a skateboard, such as removing the wheels or disassembling the board to save space and protect your equipment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Allowed in carry-on bags | Yes, but with size restrictions. |
| Allowed as checked baggage | Yes, but with size restrictions. |
| Weight restrictions | Yes, varies by airline. |
| Size restrictions | Varies by airline. |
| Disassembly required | No, but recommended for convenience. |
| Storage | Overhead bin, under the seat, or strapped to luggage. |
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What You'll Learn
Airlines with different skateboard policies
While skateboards are allowed on planes, each airline has its own unique rules regarding carrying them. Some may allow you to carry them as hand luggage, while others may require you to check them in. It's important to check with your airline before travelling to avoid unexpected challenges. Here are some airline-specific skateboard policies:
JetBlue
JetBlue allows skateboards as carry-on baggage if they are under 22 inches or within their size limitations. If checked in, skateboards are only accepted as conditionally checked items, and the airline will not be responsible for any damage or loss. The skateboard must be stowed with the wheels up to prevent rolling.
Korean Air
Korean Air does not permit passengers to carry skateboards into the plane cabin, considering them blunt instruments. However, you can include your skateboard as checked luggage.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring skateboards as carry-on items.
United-Continental Airlines
United-Continental Airlines permits skateboards as carry-on items, with a maximum length of 45 inches.
Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines allows skateboards as checked baggage but not as carry-on items.
British Airways
British Airways does not allow passengers to carry skateboards into the plane cabin, but you can include them as checked luggage.
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Preparing your skateboard for airport security
Check with Your Airline
Different airlines have varying policies regarding skateboards. Some airlines allow skateboards as carry-on baggage, while others only permit them as checked luggage. It's crucial to visit your airline's website or contact their customer service to clarify their specific rules. This proactive step will help you avoid any surprises at the airport.
Understand Size and Weight Restrictions
Skateboards are generally subject to standard carry-on and checked baggage size and weight restrictions. These restrictions can vary by airline, so ensure you're familiar with the limitations of your particular carrier. If your skateboard exceeds the allowed dimensions, you may need to consider alternative arrangements, such as purchasing additional baggage space or opting for a smaller skateboard.
Disassemble or Pack Your Skateboard
To comply with size restrictions and facilitate storage, you may need to disassemble your skateboard. Remove the trucks and place them in your backpack or checked luggage. Wrap the deck in a protective layer, such as a towel or a garbage bag, and pack clothing around it to prevent damage. Alternatively, you can purchase a skateboard backpack specifically designed for air travel.
Arrive at the Airport Early
Give yourself ample time at the airport by arriving at least two hours before your flight. This buffer will allow you to navigate any unexpected delays or complications that may arise due to your skateboard. It also provides extra time to disassemble your board, pack it securely, and proceed through security checks without rushing.
Be Prepared for Security Checks
When passing through security, you may be asked to remove your skateboard from your bag and place it in a separate bin for X-ray screening. Ensure that any loose items, such as trucks or wheels, are securely packed to prevent them from rolling away or causing a security concern. Remember to stow your skateboard with the wheels up to prevent rolling during the flight.
By following these instructions, you can confidently prepare your skateboard for airport security and ensure a smooth travel experience.
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Carry-on vs checked baggage
Skateboards can be carried on to a flight as carry-on luggage or checked baggage, depending on the airline and the airport. It is important to check with the airline before travelling with a skateboard to avoid unexpected fees or, in the worst-case scenario, missing your flight.
Carry-on baggage
Some airlines allow skateboards as carry-on items, while others do not. For example, American Airlines does not permit skateboards as carry-on baggage, but some passengers have reported travelling with their skateboards on this airline. On the other hand, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines allow skateboards as carry-on baggage.
If you are travelling with a skateboard as carry-on luggage, it should fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. If it does not fit, you may be required to pay an additional fee or check the skateboard in. To avoid this, it is a good idea to check the size restrictions of the airline and airport before travelling. Some passengers recommend disassembling the trucks and wheels and storing them separately to make the skateboard easier to store.
Checked baggage
Skateboards can also be checked in as baggage. This option may be required by some airlines, or it may be offered as an alternative to carry-on. Checking in a skateboard may incur additional fees, and there is a risk of the skateboard being damaged, lost, or delayed. However, checking in a skateboard can avoid the hassle of navigating size restrictions and carrying the item onto the plane.
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Size and weight restrictions
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows skateboards on board as carry-on items, but specific size and weight restrictions may vary depending on the airline. It is recommended to check with your airline before travelling to ensure you comply with their regulations.
Some airlines enforce standard carry-on size restrictions, typically limiting items to a maximum size of 22" x 14" x 9" (55.9 cm x 35.6 cm x 22.9 cm). Since the average skateboard length is between 28 and 32 inches, you may need to remove the trucks and place them in a backpack, or store them in an overhead bin. Alternatively, you can strap the board to your luggage and stow it in the overhead bin.
If you are travelling with a smaller children's skateboard, you may be able to store it under the seat in front of you. However, this is subject to the discretion of the airline, and some airlines may require you to purchase overhead bin space.
When packing your skateboard, you may want to consider removing the wheels and wrapping the deck in a towel or a garbage bag. This will protect the board and ensure it fits within the allotted space.
For checked baggage, skateboards generally cannot exceed 62" (157 cm) in length. Some airlines may also enforce weight restrictions, such as a maximum weight of 50 pounds (approximately 22.6 kg).
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Domestic vs international flights
When it comes to travelling with a skateboard, the policies and regulations can vary depending on the airline and the type of flight. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process for both domestic and international flights:
Domestic Flights:
For domestic travel within the US, there are a few airlines that have clear skateboard policies. Here are some examples:
- Southwest Airlines and United Airlines: These airlines allow you to bring a skateboard on the plane as carry-on baggage. However, it's important to check their latest policies before your travel.
- American Airlines: According to their website, American Airlines includes skateboards under their "sports equipment policy," which means you cannot bring it as carry-on baggage. However, some skaters claim they were able to travel with their skateboards on this airline.
- Delta Airlines: Delta allows skateboards as carry-on baggage if space is available; otherwise, they can be checked as baggage with applicable fees.
- Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines requires skateboards to be checked in as baggage, and standard checked baggage fees apply.
- JetBlue Airlines: JetBlue accepts skateboards as carry-on or checked items as long as they meet the size requirements. However, their policy can be ambiguous, and skateboards may exceed the length of a standard carry-on bag.
International Flights:
When it comes to international travel, policies can vary even more, and smaller airports may be less accommodating than larger ones. Here are some key considerations:
- Check Airline Policies: It is crucial to check the skateboard policies of all the airlines involved in your journey. Rules can differ between airlines, and you may encounter more issues at smaller airports or with international carriers.
- Carry-on vs Checked Baggage: Some international airlines may allow skateboards as carry-on items, while others may require you to check them in. It's important to be mindful of size and weight restrictions to avoid additional fees or complications.
- Protect Your Skateboard: When packing your skateboard, consider removing the trucks and wheels and cushioning them with cloth or bubble wrap. Investing in a sturdy skateboard bag can also help protect your deck during transit.
- Allow Extra Time: When navigating connecting flights and international travel, give yourself ample layover time to clear customs and security. This will help ensure a smooth journey and avoid last-minute rushes.
- Compensation for Damage: If you check your skateboard into cargo, keep in mind that damage may occur during handling. The compensation process can be complicated and lengthy, so it's best to bring your skateboard as carry-on baggage if possible.
General Tips:
- Call Ahead: Consider calling the airline directly to inquire about their skateboard policy, especially if it is not clearly listed on their website.
- Be Mindful of Others: While you may be tempted to skate around the airport terminal, it is generally not recommended due to safety concerns. Be mindful of others and follow the instructions of airport staff.
- Prepare for Fees: Skateboards may incur additional sports equipment fees, which can vary widely across airlines and routes. Researching these fees in advance can help you avoid unexpected costs.
In conclusion, whether you're travelling on a domestic or international flight, it's important to be prepared and informed about the policies and regulations regarding skateboards. By taking the necessary precautions and staying flexible, you can ensure a smooth journey with your skateboard.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can bring a skateboard to the airport.
This depends on the airline. Some airlines allow skateboards as carry-on items, while others only permit them as checked baggage.
Some airlines that allow skateboards as carry-on items include Southwest Airlines, United-Continental Airlines, and JetBlue.
Some airlines that only allow skateboards as checked baggage include Delta Airlines, Korean Air, and British Airways.
Yes, there may be restrictions on the size and weight of the skateboard. Most airlines enforce standard carry-on or checked baggage size and weight restrictions.
