Are you a fencer who will fly? If so, then you should consider a few tips to make your trip as smooth as possible. We learned in kindergarten that planes, buses, and cars are all different modes of transportation. However, as adults we need to consider some of the logistical differences before we pack our fencing gear before we fly. If you’re flying to another region, country, or continent, here are a few steps to help make the experience as seamless as your fencing moves:
1. Buy the right fencing bag
Buying the right fencing bag for you can be more difficult than it seems at first. You have many options to consider, including:
color
durability
features
Size
ยท style
To help narrow down your options, be sure to consider your particular needs. As a general rule, you should select a large fencing bag with wheels, if you are going to fly to a fencing competition. Such a bag will be able to hold your sword(s), protective gear, and anything else you need for your journey. A practical matter to consider is that carrying all that gear will be quite heavy! Therefore, choosing a fencing bag with wheels will make it easier to transport the bag.
2. Consider packing your gear in a hard travel case
One of the hassles of flying is having to pay airline baggage fees. Airlines may charge you if your luggage exceeds the maximum weight allowed. However, if you’re flying exclusively to a fencing competition, you probably won’t have much luggage, aside from your fencing gear and enough clothes for a week or two.
However, the problem is that airlines tend to charge extra fees for luggage that exceeds certain dimensions. The dimension applies to the length, width or height of the luggage. Considering the length of fencing swords, it is very likely that they exceed the maximum length of an airline’s luggage.
The good news is that airlines allow an exception on luggage dimensions, for golf travel bags. Unfortunately, soft fencing cases are not (yet) included in this exclusion. So, if you travel with your fencing equipment quite a bit, then you should consider purchasing a golf travel hard case. This will allow you to avoid excess baggage charges. Keep in mind, however, that if you still exceed the airline’s maximum baggage weight, you’ll still have to pay some kind of fee.
3. Check that your fencing equipment is completely safe in your luggage
This is important to prevent your fencing equipment from being destroyed as you fly to your competition’s destination. Double check everything before the airport processes your baggage, to make sure all of your gear is safe in your bags. Fencing equipment is an expensive thing to replace!
When flying into a fencing competition, be sure to follow these tips above. It will help ensure that you and your fencing team arrive at your destination safe and sound. Then you can focus on your main goal: to win the competition!