Anyone had success carrying on a monopod when flying? I'm trying to get by without checking a bag and the only hang-up is my monopod. I can fit it in my bag to carry on, but I'm wondering if I'll get through security with it. I'd appreciate any relevant information from those of you who've tried this. Thanks in advance. -Russ
I've done it with a tripod (24 in. folded, head removed) at least two dozen times on domestic flights without even a raised eyebrow from security or airline personnel.
Just did it recently--monopod attached to my backpack. They did want to pull me aside, but because I also asked them to handcheck some film in a lead bag, and could show them my camera gear in the main bag, they realized this was all photo-related. However, some TSAs will regard a monopod in the open as a potential weapon. You may have the most luck if you treat it as a walking stick in the TSA line, affect a limp, and get in line near someone with a cane!
Russ Isabella wrote:
Anyone had success carrying on a monopod when flying? I'm trying to get by without checking a bag and the only hang-up is my monopod. I can fit it in my bag to carry on, but I'm wondering if I'll get through security with it. I'd appreciate any relevant information from those of you who've tried this. Thanks in advance. -Russ
I carry mine on the outside of my bag and gone through security many times and have never had a problem.
And, of course, what the TSA agents allow vary from airport to airport, in fact, even from shift to shift. And while you may be allowed on your outgoing flight, the TSA agents on your return flight may differ.
Flying at least 30K miles each year, I've heard about everything. Usually all is okay and no one questions my tripod attached to my Think Tank Airport Security roller. I have had gate agents actually tell me that the tripod is an "additional" piece of luggage though, but only a couple times when TSA was monitoring the gate. When I don't want to deal with it and fly less-encumbered, I just pack it in my luggage.
Just to throw a wrench into the mix...I had an allen key that I use on my tripod taken away from my carryon. I think you just roll the dice with today's TSA farce.
Velbon Neo Pod 7 was not allowed through on American Airlines.
"It could be used as a weapon."
This was subsequent to a discussion, I kid not, concerning what it was. Really TSA agent. You view countless contents and you've never come across a monopod. And it's still a mystery to you when I explain that it holds a camera ? You need to call over a supervisor for additional discussion on "what is it ?"
As others have said it's completely a roll of the dice.
I believe it is a roll of the dice. My travel is now completed and I had no problems whatsoever with my monopod packed inside my carry-on bag. Thanks for the responses.
