Airlines allow airline luggage of all kinds, including scuba gear. Most airlines allow scuba gear to be checked in as regular airline luggage. This means that you can even carry on some of your gear, or check it all in as luggage.
Carry-On Gear
Among the gear that you may want to carry on include:
- Regulators
- Buoyancy compensators
- Masks
- Snorkels
- Fins
Compressed gas cylinders are not carry-on items and must be checked in, unless the regulator valve on the cylinder is completely disconnected from it, and the cylinder is not sealed. This means that the cylinder has one open end to allow for an inspection of the inside. Airport security officers are not allowed to remove a seal or regulator valve from the cylinder at the security checkpoint. If your cylinder is sealed and the regulator valve is attached, your cylinder will not be permitted through security. It's best to check it in if you are uncertain about how to unseal your cylinder.
Luggage Guidelines
Most airlines have similar luggage guidelines regarding scuba equipment, but the charges are all a little different. Check with the particular carrier before appearing at the airport. As an example, US Airways accepts scuba diving equipment (including the scuba tank) as checked baggage for about $100. However, if you don't include the scuba tank, the other items can go as a normal baggage allowance, in place of a piece of luggage. All gear is subject to overweight and oversize fees. Many other airlines charge for all checked luggage.
Packing Gear
You'll want to purchase a special scuba gear bag when you travel. These bags, which are made by scuba equipment manufacturers, have special compartments and pockets for each of your scuba gear parts. If you're traveling as a couple, there are large gear bags big enough to hold scuba gear for two people.
To ensure you don't find your mask damaged when you arrive at your destination, pack your mask in a hard case to protect it. If you don't have a case for your mask, you can easily buy one at a dive shop. To make sure that your fins travel without getting damaged, put them sole to sole and wrap them in a towel before putting them in your bag. You can also use a large plastic freezer bag for your dive log and other items. They can then be packed in an exterior pocket.