I've searched the DL website, and couldn't find any info on whether or not I can check frame backpacks, if so, should they be in a box or not, etc. I checked general baggage regs and sporting goods, but couldn't find packs listed.

Anybody here done that?

Would you trust DL with a full backpack? (no valuables in it, obviously)

I'm tempted to break down the pack as far as possible and box it up, but I think then I'd be stuck w/ baggage fees for the box (no fee otherwise - int'l flight)

Advise appreciated.

I have checked a military ruck sack before with no issue. Just make sure any loose straps are tied up, etc.

http://www.delta.com/traveling_check...cked/index.jsp

Once upon a time I flew DTW-CVG-SLC-MSO with a frame pack, packed sleeping bag, pad, stove, water bottles, gas bottles (empty!), and boots in the pack, and checked it. Everything came through just fine. I had a carry-on for clothes and other stuff, bought food and Coleman fuel at a camping store in Missoula, and had a great trip.

I flew ATL-ABQ this past summer with an empty frame pack. My main concern with checking it was all of the loose straps hanging off of it. DL offers a large plastic bag, so I put my pack inside of that. It has a sticky strip near the top (covered by a plastic strip). You can peel the plastic off to seal the bag up. I actually had enough extra bag to not use the sticky part and just tied the top of the bag closed, so I could use it again for the return trip.

Supposedly the plastic bag costs five dollars, but I was never charged for it. I was a non-rev, so that could have had something to do with it. Also, I couldn't tell you if checking this type of item would have an additional charge, for the same reason.

I definetly recommend using some sort of bag, whether it is one of DL's or not, but I don't know about any extra charges.

Nearly all my personal travel is with a frame back pack and I've never had a problem. A few of the EU and Asian carriers throw it in a large plastic bag.