Travelling with a tripod

Steph,

Why not call the airline directly and ask? They should be able to give you a solid answer..
Good luck and have fun!

In general I don't see why the tripod would be a problem as long as it fits in your luggage and doesn't put your bag overweight for any restricted flights (RyanAir, et. al) I took a much smaller one and no one blinked at it.

Thanks for the info. I was told by a sales rep. at a photography store that for the most part tripods wouldn't be accepted as carry-on. He said the airlines viewed it as a club or potential weapon! Great to know that you didn't have any problems - maybe this sales rep. just doesn't know. I would hate to have to check luggage just for a tripod...

Anyone else with uneventful experiences while travelling with your tripod as a carry-on?

Steph,

AFAIK, travellers are allowed to travel with a small Tripod in carry-on luggage. "Camera gear" seems to be permitted, according to this site:

www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/english/travel_voyage/list.shtml

Cheers!

Thanks for the info. I'll also call the airline to find out what they say.

unfortunately I think it will depend from security checker to security checker. Some might let it through, so may not. And at that point (at the security gate), if they don't let it through you really have very few options -- do you really want to go back in line and try to check it in.

These days thanks to having to check in my after-shave cologne (its slightly bigger than the permitted) I just bite the bullet and check in anything that could be controversial.

I would recommend checking it.

Someone in the general travel section mentioned the "Gorillapod" tripod made by Joby. I'm still debating buying one, but it got great user reviws and for only $25 you might give it a try.

Product specs (for the smallest...looks like it comes in two other sizes)

Intended for: Compact digital cameras
Max weight load: 275g (9.7oz)
Adapter: Universal ¼-in tripod screw
Size: 15 x 3 x 3cm (5.9 x 1.2 x 1.2")
Weight: 45.3g (1.6oz)

Good luck!

Why pack all that weight? I bought the Gorillapod at REI and I'm in love. It's so light weight...did get great reviews, and will certainly make carry on easier...it's so small and easy to use. It sounds like you will carry a larger camera than most of us...so make sure you buy the right size...they come in 3 for P & S, medium size cameras and DSLR/SLR.

Check it out and save yourself some hassle. You can determine if it's going to work the way you use a tripod.

Hi Steph,...
I recently read an article in a photog magazine written by a professional photographer on the subject of using tripods in awkward locales. He pointed out that photo tripods draw attention to the photo process - then sometimes a local takes mbrage - or a 'policeman' wants to collect a photographic fee - you get his point, I'm sure.
This photographer's solution is to take along a hand-size sandbag (sometimes he takes an empty bag to be filled on location). The sandbag, he says, provides amazingly good stability after just a little practice.
Have a great trip in any event! P.