Disability Travel - Do you use trekking poles as mobility aids?

Has anyone who uses trekking poles as regular mobility aids (i.e., instead of conventional canes/crutches) had experience taking them through security?

I've used one, and taken it through security. But I also get a wheel-chair through, so they know it's a mobility aid. Mine also has a more traditional looking handle to it, so that might help too.

I have only used one and not a pair. Had no trouble going through security as I believe it was obvious that I needed to use it. The advantage of using one trekking pole is that mine telescopes and is easy to stow when seated.

I don't leave home on a trip without it as I never know when fatigue is going to require its use again.

My tekking pole has been on 5 continents.

what brand/models do you use?

i likely would put mine in a carry on if i could find a <20in collaspable unit i could get through tsa

at this point i only need it for rough surfaces (cobblestones, hiking trails, etc) so it may be less obvious as a disability aid.

personally i don't like 'cane' models

tia

The person on whose behalf I posted the question uses two Leki trekking poles as her regular mobility aids. They have points, which she keeps covered with rubber cane tips.

I don't personally have any experience getting trekking poles through security. I'd be inclined to think that if you do use them as mobility aids, you ought to be able to get them through, but I bet that pointy ends would make that harder. I'd also bet it would depend a lot on the luck of the draw and how the TSO you get is feeling that day.

My most traveled Leki walking stick has a ball for the handle (not a traditional cane handle) and a rubber end fitted over the hiking tip.

I believe it is my method of use that makes it clear that I need it. As it telescopes it does not have to go into the closet on the plane.

Here's what I choose..

http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en-us/shop/mountain/trekking-poles/distance-trekking-pole

15" for packing and lightweight. Length is not adjustable so be sure to pick the correct size. The tip is hard plastic, but can be unscrewed and replaced with at metal tip. I'd think the hard plastic should allow the pole to make it through TSA and you could carry the metal ones elsewhere (they look like small screws). Any rubber tip built for trekking poles will fit over either.

I talked to customer service and he said they've received a lot of requests for a single TSA approved pole from persons with disabilities and would likely be addressing with a product specific solution. If you have specific needs I'd suggest contacting their CS....

Thx and good luck....

My favorite pole is a Leki that was Swiss made long, long ago. It is adjustable for length and does telescope.

The newer Leki poles are made elsewhere and are not at all the same product.

After my serious leg injury Part 2, some friends bought me a very expensive hand made wooden walking stick that has no fancy features. It is so nice I am afraid to get it near the TSA.