Skydive vacations can be fun, but they can also be stressful. Getting your gear there safely can be a challenge. Here’s how to ensure your skydiving equipment reaches your destination without a hitch.
Preparing Your Skydiving Gear for Travel
Proper preparation of your skydiving gear is crucial before you embark on your journey. Clean and inspect each equipment component to ensure everything is in working order. Pay special attention to the main and reserve parachutes and the Automatic Activation Device (AAD). Any signs of wear or damage should be addressed immediately.
Disassemble non-essential parts and pack them separately to prevent damage during transit. For instance, you can remove the altimeter and other delicate instruments and pack them in protective cases. Also, you may have to research which of your electronics use lithium batteries. If you jump primarily in farmland, you may want to wipe your rig and equipment off with a damp cloth a few days before travel; this helps dilute any fertilizers you may have come in contact with.
Choosing the Right Travel Bag for Your Equipment
Investing in a high-quality travel bag designed specifically for skydiving gear can make a difference. Look for bags with ample padding, reinforced stitching, and multiple compartments to keep your gear secure and organized. A bag with wheels can also make navigating airports and other travel hubs much easier. Specific travel bags are made with padded helmet pockets, or consider using a hard shell case.
Make sure the bag is durable and weather-resistant. Choose one that fits within the airline's size restrictions for checked or carry-on luggage to avoid any last-minute issues at the airport. Most people recommend getting a gear bag or rig sleeve and taking your rig as a carry-on. This allows you always to have eyes on your gear at all times.
Navigating Airline Regulations and Policies
Each airline has its own set of regulations and policies for transporting sports equipment, including skydiving gear. Check with your airline beforehand to understand their specific rules and any additional fees that may apply. The majority of the time, your gear will get swabbed checked, so allow for extra time for check-in.
It's also a good idea to carry a copy of the TSA regulations regarding parachute equipment. Some security personnel may not be familiar with skydiving gear, so having this documentation can help expedite the security screening process. Most AAD companies have their own X-ray cards, which are super helpful for assisting TSA agents.
Ensuring Safety and Security of Your Gear
Use TSA-approved locks on your travel bag to protect your gear from theft or damage. Security personnel can open these locks without cutting them off, providing an additional layer of security.
Please label your gear bags with your contact information and include a 'Fragile' tag to alert baggage handlers to handle them carefully. For added peace of mind, you may want to purchase travel insurance that covers sports equipment.
What to Do If Your Gear Gets Lost or Damaged
Despite your best efforts, your gear may be lost or damaged during transit. If this happens, please report the issue to the airline and file a claim immediately. Most airlines have procedures for compensating passengers for lost or damaged items.
Keep a detailed inventory of your gear, including serial numbers and photos, to help with the claims process. It's also a good idea to have a backup plan, such as knowing the location of nearby skydiving gear rental shops at your destination.
