Tripods, Planes, and Airport Security

[Stuck_At_Work]

I'm flying to Scotland and Spain next week. My flights are a nightmare - a total of 9 connections for this multi-city trip. As such, I'm only bringing what can fit in a carry on bag.

I really want to bring my camera tripod. It'll fit... but I'm really worried that airport security will confiscate it.

Thoughts?

 

[chuychanga]

I don't know if they'll let you on with it or not.

Here's the TSA list of what you can and cannot bring.

They don't mention tripods with the camera equipment section. The closest thing I could find was listed under "Tools." If they consider it a tool, you can only carry it on if it's less than 7 inches. Longer than 7" and it must be checked. (Sounds like a joke: "Sir, I noticed your tool is more than 7 inches...")

My guess is that you'll find the TSA to be completely inconsistent about it. Some may let you on, some will make you check it. Hopefully they are a little more reasonable in Europe.

 

[01 grad]

I'm guessing most, if not all, will let you carry on. If not, may have to check it for one or two flights. I wouldn't be concerned about it being confiscated.

 

[Stuck_At_Work]

Well it is certainly longer than 7 inches... more like 2 feet long...

And the tripod it pretty long too.

I guess I'll just call the airline and see what they say.

 

[TexonLongIsland]

In reply to:

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[DigglerontheHoof]

I don't know about the UK but I've flown to France and Italy the last two summers and security is much easier. Shoes stay on, laptop stays in bag and my hip didn't set off one metal detector....none of the above can be said for domestic flights.

 

[hornimal]

I was just in london and noticed the bobbies asking people taking pictures with tripods to refrain from doing so. they were especially strict at the tube/train stations.

security in spanish airports is pretty lax.