I have been fortunate to travel to multiple countries during my time as a whitewater kayaker. While Teren makes it easy to travel light and stress-free with a minimal wardrobe, adding a 9-foot-long kayak into the equation can make things daunting.
The word on the street is that years ago, an Olympic Team was traveling with fragile kayaks that were all broken, and since then airlines have treaded lightly with their kayak policies. That being said, with some planning and insider tips, you can increase your chances for a smooth trip. Many of the tips below apply to all kinds of sporting equipment, and I hope you enjoy the read! Whether you're headed for a whitewater expedition, a serene paddle in faraway lakes, or another adventure with oversized sporting equipment, here's what you need to know.
Choose Your Airline Wisely and Consider Their Guidelines
Not all airlines are kayak-friendly, and most have stringent rules regarding oversized sporting equipment. Doing your research on airline policies ahead of time can give you an idea of what to expect, especially since these policies are ever-changing.
In the U.S., Delta and American Airlines prohibit kayaks outright, while United Airlines doesn’t even have a policy listed for them. Conversely, airlines like Virgin America, Southwest, Frontier, and Alaska Airlines allow them with certain restrictions. Air France is another favorable choice for international trips, with clear guidelines on sports equipment and a reputation for being easy to fly with kayaks.
However, people fly successfully on all of these airlines with a kayak! The tip is: It’s easier to register your kayak as a windsurf, kiteboard, surfski, or surfboard on many airlines if your kayak fits the size requirements of those categories. Many airlines have more lenient rules for these types of equipment. The bottom line is to check what sporting equipment your preferred airline will transport and fit your kayak within that genre. Many airlines outright ban kayaks because it is assumed they are 15+ feet long and fragile, whereas nowadays, many kayaks more closely resemble a smaller type of sporting equipment in length and size.
Pro tip: Always call your airline in advance to verify these details, as policies can vary, and you want to avoid any surprises at check-in.
Always Pre-Book Your Kayak
One of the most important steps when flying with a kayak is pre-booking your gear. This ensures there will be enough room in the hold for your kayak and avoids potential last-minute issues. The worst-case scenario is showing up at the airport only to be told there's no room for your kayak because the cargo hold is full of freight.
If you've pre-booked, you’ll have a better chance of arguing your case at check-in if things go wrong. With pre-booking confirmation in hand, you can avoid leaving without your kayak.
Protect Your Gear and Avoid Damage
Proper packing is key to keeping your kayak safe from damage during transport. Airlines are notorious for rough handling of large items, and a poorly packed kayak could arrive with more than a few dents. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cover and Secure: If your kayak is traveling in plastic wrap, ensure it’s well secured with duct tape. Ideally, use a durable kayak bag, surfboard bag, or even make one yourself from tough material like cloth. Some travelers reuse plastic coverings from their kayak deliveries for trips. I've even used a Christmas tree bag to pack up my kayak!
- Leave Grab Handles Free: Ensure your kayak's grab handles are exposed for easy handling by the airline crew. This minimizes the chances of your kayak being mishandled or left behind.
- Avoid Overfilling: While it’s tempting to stuff your kayak with gear to save space, this can lead to issues at check-in. Many airlines charge separately for paddles or other attachments, and taping a paddle to the kayak might cause complications—or even a broken paddle on arrival.
- Check Your Paddle as a Separate Item or Use a Split Paddle: To save space and avoid issues with piece-count limits, carry a split paddle inside the kayak. Many airlines will count the paddle as a separate item, so it’s better to avoid unnecessary fees by tucking it away.
Prepare for the Worst: Lost or Damaged Gear
Unfortunately, even the best packing job and careful planning can't always prevent mishaps. It’s crucial to be prepared in case your kayak is delayed, damaged, or lost.
- Baggage Tags: Never leave the check-in area until a handler has taken your kayak. Always keep your baggage tags in a safe place, as these are your only proof if something goes wrong. Without them, it will be nearly impossible to hold the airline accountable for any damage or loss.
- Insurance: Consider getting extra travel insurance that covers sports equipment. This could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars if your kayak gets damaged in transit.
Final Tip: Show Up Early and Be Nice!
No two experiences have been the same for me, even with the same airline, and much of the success of your travel depends on the specific representatives you are working with. Showing up with ample time for unforeseen issues, with a smile on your face and some patience, goes a long way!
Final Thoughts: Make Your Kayak Adventure Smooth
Traveling with your kayak can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be. Research the airline, pre-book your equipment under a category they accept, pack properly, show up early, be ready for unexpected issues, and be nice. There’s nothing quite like the relief of seeing your kayak arrive intact at your destination, ready for your next adventure.
Looking forward to seeing everyone on the river in a faraway destination!
About the Author:
Bennett Smith is a professional whitewater kayaker and five-time Team USA member, representing the nation at Freestyle Kayaking World Championships. Throughout his 14-year career, he has traveled extensively, competing and exploring across North and South America, Europe, and beyond.
Based in Chattanooga, TN, Bennett lives with his wife, Kathleen, and their three dogs: Lula, June, and Gummy. As the Executive Director for the American Heart Association by day, he spends his free time planning his next kayaking adventure or enjoying Chattanooga's rivers and trails with his family.
