Treking Poles for Greece Trip

Check TSA - we want to bring our trekking poles too but not allowed in carryon- checked luggage is fine. We are doing the whole pack light carryon thing so no trekking poles for us which is a big bummer since we are doing the Alpine Tour. May have to buy a set or two over there.

We brought collapsible trekking poles with us in a sports duffle that we checked. I found them more useful for going down than going up, because of gravel/rocky paths. We used them at Delphi and Mystras (not sure I spelled this correctly). We probably could have used them if the hike up Monemvasia was open, it wasn’t because of previous rain. We did not use them for The Acropolis and the approach up used on our tour was so gradual that no one felt any stress, and I didn’t feel like they would be useful there. The stones that can be slippery are pretty large and flat; you just need to be aware and step carefully. Most of the other walks I felt were pretty easy. I hope this information helps you evaluate whether or not to bring them.

At the time, I was early 60’s and my husband was late 60’s with a bad knee (since replaced). We’re pretty fit, but would prefer not to fall.

Thanks a lot. I'll be 68 at the time of the trip and walk a lot, but like to protect my knees. I will decide whether to bring them after I weigh my bag. I'm checking it, but I intend to pack very light. Buying a pair there may be an option.

Ricka

Brought mine, but did not use them. We did not hike up the 999 steps to fortress in Nafplio though. I was annoyed about the extra weight they added.

Checking poles in a soft duffle bag has a hidden benefit. If you are outbound with a maxed out carry-on bag, duffle bag going out with just poles can come back filled with goodies picked up in your travels. Legacy air carriers typically allow one checked bag per person except for some very econo fares.

I’m with Edgar on this one. And yes, they will come in handy in Greece. We did not have them and wished we did.

Some of the archaeological sites are difficult for walking - up/downhill unpaved paths with loose stones and gravel, ancient steps that are broken, uneven, and well-worn. If you aren't sure-footed, you may find a trekking pole (one could well be sufficient) to be useful - maybe even necessary. On the same note, you will want sturdy, closed shoes (loose gravel will get into sandals) with good traction.

Thanks again, everyone.

Ricka

I did this tour last year and wished I’d have brought them, actually a lot of us did! There was an optional hike we did the guide recommended and we struggled up and couldn’t get down, loose rocks and we were falling all over. We paid someone at the top of the hill who had a car to take us down, infact we really begged him! lol. So yes take them!

Thanks everyone. I'll fit them in if I can.

We took one pair of trekking poles in a checked bag on our independent trip to Greece. My wife used one pole for the Acropolis. Didn't use them for the rest of our 12 days in Greece. Also, brought them along for our RS Turkey tour and didn't use them. But, I'll bring them again, just in case.

A lot of the pavement and rocks you walk over in the ruins have been worn smooth. When wet they can be slippery. So, you want shoes with good traction and at least one pole to give you that third point of balance.