We're joining the Alpine My Way tour in Sept. and plan on lots of hiking. Do most folks bring hiking sticks? It sounds like some of the trails near Chamonix are steep and sticks would come in handy but it means no carry-on of luggage so I'm weighing the pros and cons and would like some input from anyone who has done the trip. Thanks!
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9100 posts
There are trekking poles that can either be folded or collapsed into a carry-on sized bag. Check out Black Diamond's selection:
Posted by
2527 posts
Unless you have a mobility issue (bad joint(s) or poor balance there's no need to pack trekking poles in my opinion. You will see folks having spent serious money for the proper looking serious boots, trekking poles, pants, etc., walking on pleasant paths. They do look rather smart though. If you do take the poles, be mindful of the tips as a person ascending stairs in front of me on a hike the other day was waving the tips menacingly near my face despite knowing I was behind him.
Posted by
OP
7 posts
I wasn't sure TSA would let them go as carryon. They don't mention them specifically on their website but don't allow anything that can "bludgeon" including ski poles. With creaky knees, they're sometimes helpful, especially going downhill.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9100 posts
Correct you won't be able to carry-on a carry-on with a hiking stick in it:) But you won't need larger baggage to accommodate it. I always check by carry ons anyways so its not a big deal for me.
I find hiking sticks are very helpful in steep terrain, or even rugged cobblestones. Saves wear & tear on your knees and can be easily folded to a compact size when not needed. I encourage you bring em along even if it means checking your bag.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
If you think you will need trekking poles, just buy a cheap pair once you get there. They're very easy to find around mountain resorts.
Posted by
Edmond, OK
184 posts
Ditto what Tom said. We did a hiking trip in Ireland and I purchased good quality hiking poles for 10€ in Dublin. I don't know your age or abilities but the poles were very helpful for us.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15584 posts
Poles would definitely be useful in the Alpi di Siusi. Cynthia was my tour leader and very knowledgeable. When she's not leading tours, she works in the Redmond office. Try calling her to find out where you can get them.
Posted by
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
3207 posts
This answers the same question that was nagging at me regarding the RS Greece tour. Although, I'm thinking of just bringing one...at home I tend to leave the other one in the car anyway. Thanks for asking it. Wray
Posted by
OP
7 posts
Thanks to all for the input!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
ms,
There are LOTS of outdoor stores in Chamonix, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding hiking poles there. Of course, that means you'd have to check your luggage on the way home.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15584 posts
Yeah, but Chamonix is at the end of the tour, after the Dolomites and Switzerland . . .