Skateboard-loving people always want to carry skateboards wherever they travel. But they often get confused while traveling on a plane. They frequently ask,” Can you bring a skateboard on a plane?”. Believe me! I have also got confused and found the answer is “Yes”. But different airlines have some restrictions(size, weight, packing).
That’s why today I’m here to give you a complete guideline. That will help you carry a skateboard on a plane with the airline’s legal policies and the tips I have experienced.
TSA and Airline Policies & Regulations:
Every airline needs to follow some rules and regulations for safety and security. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) oversees the guidelines and standards that airlines follow.
Individual airlines follow different criteria to carry any sports goods on a plane. They allow different weights, sizes(length + width + height), and other requirements of the goods.
Before you start packing, it’s crucial to check your airline’s specific policies and requirements. Most airlines allow skateboards as part of your checked or carry-on baggage.
Airlines That Allow Skateboards To Be Carried On
With their requirements, most of the airlines permit to carry the skateboards considering the sizes and requirements. Here are some airlines,
- United Airlines – This airline requires carry-on or checked baggage for the skateboards.
- Southwest Airlines –This airline also allows carry-on and checked baggage. They also permit to cover the wheels with a trash bag.
- Alaska Airlines– Alaska Airlines has a clear sports policy, permitting skateboards only as checked baggage.
- American Airlines – American Airlines allows skateboards as checked baggage. But they have strict maximum weight and size for all items is 100 lbs / 45 kgs (some exceptions apply) and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height). More than that, it can vary from country to country.
- Frontier Airlines – This airline only allows checked luggage
- British Airways – Skateboard or any sports equipment can only be carried on within 45 linear inches (22″ X 14″ X 9″). Besides, checked baggage is also allowed for an additional fee.
- Hawaiian Airlines- Hawaiian Airlines welcomes your skateboard with a friendly aloha! You can bring it along as checked baggage, following the rules and fees in Rule 18, Sections (A) and (B).
NB: Oversized, overweight, and extra items will be subject to additional fees unless otherwise noted. I recommend you check your airline website and be aware of the rules and policies of carrying a skateboard in an airplane.
Do Budget Airlines Allow Skateboards?
For those who often fly with budget airlines, here’s important information. These airlines usually don’t allow skateboards as carry-on items due to limited space on the aircraft.
But keep in mind that every airline has its different policies and requirements. Make sure the right information before traveling with a skateboard on budget airlines.
Can I Ride A Skateboard In An Airport?
Many skaters think about skating in the airport but sometimes they get confused about, “Can you take a skateboard on an airport?” Even though I have been permitted to take a skateboard in the airport will I be allowed to ride it? The answer is “YES”, you can ride skateboards in the airport only till the check-in point.
The airport is a crowded area, with a lot of traffic. Skateboarding in an airport is a matter of safety for both the skaters and their fellow people. I would like not to ride a skateboard in an airport area because safety and security are of utmost importance to me.
Remember one important tip, always use protective gear while skating anywhere.
Besides, Some airports won’t allow you to ride a skateboard due to health and safety regulations. Actually, it varies from airport to airport. So before skating in an airport, you need to know the specific policies and regulations of the airport.
Packing Your Skateboard:
After knowing the guidelines of airlines you need to focus on packing the skateboard. To carry a skateboard in an airplane follow these tips:
- Using your skateboard bags: You can use your skateboard bag to protect your board from scratches and dings. If you don’t have you can easily buy a bag and this small investment will save the board from potential damage. Remember the price of a bag is less than the overall cost of a skateboard.
- Aparting the trucks and wheels: To avoid any damage the package should be more compact and portable. Consider removing the trucks and wheels to make the skateboard package easy to compact. But from my experience, I won’t recommend you not to apart the trucks and wheels from the skateboard, and everything’s been fine so far!
For safely carrying your skateboard in checked luggage, use a duffel bag or suitcase. If your skateboard is a carry-on item, use a skateboard backpack or attach it to your regular backpack to attract less attention. Walking onto the plane with a skateboard might cause a flight attendant to ask for a last-minute check.
The flight attendant might also spend extra time checking if the skateboard meets the requirements. It’s best to keep things low-key to avoid any issues.
Security Checking of Your Skateboard Backpack
These straightforward tips will help to navigate the security of the airline;
- Check for any Prohibited Items: Before you go to the airport, ensure your skateboard doesn’t have any banned items. Take out tools, sharp objects, or anything that might cause security issues.
- Be prepared for Inspection: As your skateboard goes through the X-ray machine, security might need to inspect it. Be ready to clarify that it’s a sports item and cooperate with security personnel.
Can You Take An Electric Skateboard On A Plane?
For skateboard lovers, electric skateboards are another level of fun. But It’s sorry to say that most airlines don’t allow electric skateboards on airplanes.
Most of the Electric skateboards run through lithium batteries which are unstable in nature and airlines see them as a fire hazard. For this issue, most airlines consider electric skateboards as Prohibited Items on planes.
Transport Option: Can You Take Your Skateboard on a Train or Bus?
Skaters always want the world as their playground. They want to travel or move from one place to another place with their skateboards. It can be as usual skateboards, cruiser skateboards, or electric skateboards. “YES” skaters can travel with their skateboards on trains or buses. While rules differ by location and provider, many train and bus services may not be skateboard-friendly. So, skaters should grasp the policies and etiquette.
If skateboards are allowed on buses and trains, please try to be kind to other passengers. Hold your skateboard securely, keep it tidy, and be prepared to make space for others. For safety reasons, don’t ride it inside the vehicle.
Conclusion
So, can you bring a skateboard on a plane? The answer is a resounding yes, you can definitely bring your skateboard on a plane. Different airlines have different policies on size, weight, and even electric skateboards. Remember, a smooth skateboarding experience starts with smart packing. Be sure to check your airline’s specific guidelines before packing your board to avoid any hassle or extra fees.
However, the decision is yours but always be prepared with the tips when bringing your skateboard on the plane. Happy travels with skateboards!