I used similar packing protocol when I flew from MCI to LAX last
November, and (to my knowledge) my carry-on and checked baggage
remained unopened both ways. At LAX, security paid more attention to
the sweatshirt I was wearing (they don't like layers) than my carry-
on full of high-dollar optics, camera, iPod, etc.

It may also be useful to only pack one layer in your carry-on. In
other words, don't pack your binoculars under your scope (when the
carry-on is lying flat) -- pack them flat and side-by-side so they
are easily distinguished on the x-ray.

Kristi Mayo
Kearney MO (Clay Co.)
[log in to unmask]

On Feb 15, 2007, at 11:04 PM, Edge wrote:

> I posted this earlier today in response to a similar query on the
> KS listserve. Pete Jansen, Wichita, seconded all I wrote and noted
> that he had just returned from FL. Everything went right on
> through. Did have note both ways saying luggage had been opened
> and searched.
>
> No, there is NO NEED to contact airline before you travel.
>
>
> I've flown with scope and tripod before and after 911. Yes, it is
> worth the effort.
>
> 1. NEVER put the scope in checked baggage. I carry mine in a
> backpack. I remove the eyepiece and put it in its separate case
> for extra protection. This also shortens the overall length a
> couple of inches. I carry on the binoculars, FRS radios, audio
> equipment (bird sounds) all in the same backpack.
>
> Be prepared for anything at the security check. My experience
> ranges from being waved through to:
> a. one guy wanted to disassemble the spotting scope (easily-but
> gently disuaded)
> b. checking each item for explosives residue
> c. TSA person wanting to look through scope and/or binocs
> d. TSA totally ignoring scope, binocs, etc., and doing a thorough
> search of me (short of cavity search).
>
> I can find no pattern to the various experiences. However, TSA
> personnel at popular birding destinations usually have encountered
> the equipment before and pose the fewest problems with it.
>
>
> 2. For the tripod: Check it.
> Because of the length, you may be limited in what bag to use. I
> remove the head. This reduces length by 3 to 4 inches.
> I write "Birdwatching equipment--tripod" on paper and attach it
> with a rubber band to the legs
> I write "Tripod inside" on paper and attach it to the outside of
> the bag.
>
> These notes are probably extraneous--the x-ray folks seem to know
> what it is and I've had no indication of a problem. Sometimes my
> checked bag has been opened for inspection; sometimes not--seems
> random.
>
> Have a great trip!
>
> Edge Wade
> Columbia, MO
> [log in to unmask]
>
>
> On Feb 15, 2007, at 10:36 PM, Jonathan B. Pons wrote:
>
>> Dear MoBirders,
>>
>> Just a few Quick Questions: How do you Travel via Airplane with
>> your
>> Binoculars, Spotting Scope and Tripod??? Do you need to Contact
>> the Airline
>> First??? Do you Pack (Very Well Packed of course!!!) them in your
>> Check-in
>> Luggage or Bring them with you in your Carry-on Bags??? Any other
>> Advice???
>>
>> I'm getting ready to go Visit my Grandmother in Florida (My Home
>> State...),
>> and would like to do some Birding while I'm there, I just don't
>> know How to
>> Protect my Gear while onboard an Airplane (I Usually Drive...)???
>> Any Assitance would be Greatly Appreciated!!! Thank You, Please
>> Take Care.
>>
>> Yours,
>> Jonathan B. Pons
>> Columbia, Boone County
>>
>

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