Taking tripods, monopods and other types of camera stands on planes need to follow some airlines regulations.
Within the United States you can bring tripods and monopods on planes if they fit in the carry-on dimensions, on international flights some airlines may only accept tripods in checked baggage, so it is always better to check with your airline prior to your flight.
Keep reading to find out more about taking tripods on planes, we have also listed some airline rules.
Let’s dive right in.
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Can I Carry a Tripod as Carry-on?
The TSA ( Transportation Security Administration ) allows taking tripods in hand luggage.
Here is a screenshot from the TSA website:
You don’t even need to take out the tripod from your bag for a separate screening unless the security agent asks you to do so.
But If you are traveling with other camera gear, any electronics larger than a cell phone need to be placed in a separate bin for further inspection.
I checked Twitter to find more information.
Mary asked the TSA if she can carry her selfie stick tripod on board the airplane; the TSA answered “yes, tripods and selfie sticks are allowed in carry-on bags”.
The TSA added, even if an item is generally allowed , it may be subject to additional screening at the airport, or even not allowed if it triggers an alarm during the screening process”
Tip: My favorite suitcase is this 20-inch Samsonite Winfield. It is a durable carry-on with a spacious interior, with spinner wheels, and is compliant with most budget and international airlines check it out on Amazon.
Does A Tripod Count As A Personal Item?
If the tripod is small and can be stowed perfectly under the seat, it can be considered a personal item.
If it is larger, it will be considered as carry-on ; and if it is more than the maximum carry-on size allowed by the airline you’re traveling with, in which case it will be subject to check in baggage rules.
This rule applies only for airlines that permit passers to take tripods on board the airplane.
Airlines Rules
American Airlines
American airlines Allows one carry-on bag and one personal item (Briefcase, a purse, laptop bag) free of charge, You can bring your Tripod if it fits in your carry on bag (as stated below).
This passenger asked the American Airline about flying with a Tripod as shown below.
United Airlines
Yes, you can bring a tripod on United Airlines as carry on if it is within the airline carry on size and weight.
JetBlue
Tze wants to know the police on bringing tripods on JetBlue flights, and if a trip will be counted as carry on.
JetBlue customer service replied that as long as the tripod fits in the overhead bin, he will be able to take it on board.
Cebu pacific
Cebu Pacific do not allow Tripods on board the airplane as carry on, According to Cebu Pacific Tripods are only allowed only in your checked bag.
How Do You Travel With A Tripod?
Carry-on luggage is the safer option for tripods and other delicate electronics, as checked baggage can be roughly handled especially on busy airports.
Make sure that you pack your tripod wisely and do some added protection; if you are traveling with a tripod with spike feet, make sure to remove them and put them in a separate place.
Best Travel Tripod
When you are shopping for a tripod to take with you on your journey The best travel tripod is a small tripod so it can be easy to pack, light enough to carry and sturdy enough to withstand the hit of the road.
But overall to choose your own tripod the essential is to figure out which features will work for you in addition if the price resonates with you.
- UBeesize 67” Camera Tripod with Travel Bag (Amazon link), is really a good example of a tripod that can fully adapt to a range of different heights and enables the user to compose the photos more creatively than ever.
- The Apex A70 Tripod for Camera and Phone is designed for travel. Made of high strength Aluminum for superior durability, while also being lightweight (less than 4lbs) for easy travel and adventure. No more lugging around heavy gear! Up a travel tripod that suits both purposes, and With more and more creators working in both photography and videography, it makes sense to pick the apex tripod.
Final Thoughts
You can bring a tripod on a plane in both hand luggage and checked luggage, However; it is advised to always take your tripod in your carry on.
If you are afraid that the tripod will be oversized, It should remain in your carry-on or personal item throughout all your flight .
We hope this helps
Happy travels.
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