If you’re a paddle boarding enthusiast, you might have wondered if you can bring a paddle board with you on a plane on your next flight.
In this post, I’ll answer all these questions and more. I’ll also share some tips and tricks on how to pack, protect, and transport your paddle board safely and efficiently.
Whether you have an inflatable or a hard board, you’ll find some useful information here.
Let’s dive right in 🏄♂️.
TL;DR
- Inflatable paddle boards are allowed in carry-on and checked bags (but they must be deflated in cary-on)
- Hard paddle boards are allowed to be transported only in checked bags as they are bulky, but with prior airline approval
- Paddle board accessories are good to go as carry-on and checked bags
- Consider traveling with a inflatable paddle board as it is lightweight and much more easier to transport
The TSA SUP Boards rules
If you are flying within or from the U.S then the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) will be responsible to inspect your stand up paddle board and gear.
They don’t specifically mention paddle boards on their website, but they have a section about Canoes / Kayak Paddles, which are allowed only in checked bags.
This means that stand up paddle boards are only allowed in checked bags as they have the same shape as kayaks, but non-inflated paddle boards are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
Still have questions? tag the @AskTSA for a quick response
If you are planning to bring other paddle board accessories on board with you (like Paddle board pumps, SUP Paddle, repair kit etc..), keep in mind that bulky or heavy items will not be accepted on board as they can be used as a bludgeon to kick someone in the head.
Other small items and accessories will depend on the TSA officer at the airport whether they will be allowed on board or not.
You can always take a photo of your item and tag the @AskTSA on X (Formerly Twitter) or send them a message on Facebook messenger.
Just like Robin Della Mora did.
Airlines Rules
So the short answer: yes, you can
You can bring a paddle board on a plane, as long as it is within your airline’s size and weight requirements.
However, the bad news is that it might cost you a pretty penny, depending on the airline, the destination, and the type of board you have.
Generally speaking, inflatable paddle boards are easier and cheaper to transport than hard boards, because they can be deflated and folded into a compact size.
They are light and are less likely to get damaged during transit. However, they still need to be packed properly and checked in as oversized or sports equipment.
Hard boards, on the other hand, are bulky, challenging and expensive to transport, because they are bulky, heavy, and fragile.
They need a special case or bag, and checked in as oversized or sports equipment.
They also have a higher risk of getting damaged or lost during transit. However, they offer better performance and durability than inflatable boards, which might be worth the hassle for some paddlers.
How To Find The Right Airline When Traveling With a Paddle Board
Before you go ahead and book your ticket, it is important to do some research on the airline’s regulations regarding SUP boards and sport equipment in general.
Different airlines have different rules and fees for oversized bags or sports equipment, and some might not even accept paddle boards at all.
And if you are traveling internationally, you also need to check the customs regulations of your destination country, as some countries might charge you extra taxes or duties for bringing a paddle board.
In case your airline accepts paddle boards you might want to look for special deals or discounts for sports equipment, or join a frequent flier program that offers extra baggage allowance.
Alternatively, you might want to consider renting a paddle board at your destination, or buying a cheap one then sell it or donate it before you leave.
How to Pack Your Paddle Board for a Flight
Once you’ve chosen your airline and booked your flight, you need to pack your paddle board neatly to protect it from hits and make it easier to fly with.
Here are some tips on how to pack your paddle board for a flight, depending on the type of board you have.
Inflatable Paddle boards
- Deflate your board: Use a pump or a valve wrench to release the air from your board. Make sure you deflate it completely, as any remaining air might expand and damage your board during the flight.
- Clean and dry your board: Wipe off any dirt, sand, or salt from your board with a damp cloth. Then, let it dry completely, as any moisture might cause mold or mildew to grow on your board.
- Fold your board: Start from the tail and fold your board in half, then in half again, until you reach the nose. Try to fold it as neatly and tightly as possible, to reduce the size and avoid creases.
- Pack your board: Place the board in a backpack, a duffel bag, or a special case designed for inflatable paddle boards. Make sure the bag or case is solid and padded, to protect your board from bumps and scratches (if you don’t take it with you as carry-on). You can also wrap your board in a piece of cloth for extra cushioning. Don’t forget to pack your pump, paddle, leash, fin, and repair kit as well.
- Label your board: Tie-up a luggage tag or a sticker with your name, address, phone number, and flight details to your bag or case. This will help you identify your board and track it down in case it gets lost or delayed.
Hard stand up Paddle boards
- Remove the fin and the leash: Remove the fin from your board and detach the leash. You can pack them separately in your bag or case, or in your carry-on luggage. Make sure you wrap them in a soft cloth or foam to prevent them from breaking or scratching your board.
- Clean and dry your board: Wipe off any dirt, sand, or salt from your board. Then, let it dry completely.
- Pack the board: Put your board in a special case or bag designed for hard paddle boards. Make sure the case or bag is sturdy and padded, to protect your board from bumps and scratches.
- Label your board: Attach a luggage tag or a sticker with your name, address, phone number, and flight details to your case or bag. This will help you find your board and track it down in case it goes missing.
Read also: How Often Are Items Stolen From Checked Bags?
How To Transport Your Paddle Board To And From The Airport?
Once you’ve packed your paddle board for a flight, you need to transport it to and from the airport.
This might be another challenge, depending on the size and weight of your board and the mode of transportation you choose.
Here are some tips on how to transport your paddle board to and from the airport.
- Car: If you have your own car or a rental car, this might be the easiest and cheapest option.
- Taxi or ride-share: If you don’t have a car, you can take a taxi or a ride-share service, such as Uber or Lyft, to the airport.
- Public transportation: If you want to save money and reduce your carbon footprint, you can take public transportation, such as a bus, a train, or a subway, to the airport.
- Shipping companies: If you want to avoid the hassle and the risk of flying with your board, you can use a courier or a shipping service, such as FedEx, UPS, or DHL, to send your board to your destination.
Final Thoughts
So, to put a final answer to the question: can you bring a paddle board on a plane? Yes, you very much can bring them with you.
Ensure that you pack your board properly and neatly, then pick the right airline for your paddling gear to avoid any excessive fees.
If you’re a paddle boarding enthusiast, I would recommend traveling with an inflatable paddle board as they’re lightweight and easy to transport and to inflate it back ounce your reach your destination, but if you are a fan of hard epoxy boards you can always consider renting one at your destination.
Hope this helps
Happy travels
