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Search 69,459 Camino Questions

Carry On Question?

Anthony18

Active Member
Time of past OR future Camino
2019
Hello Pilgrims! I'm planning on taking a 48L bag on my camino, and based on all my research, I'll have to check that bad boy in once I get to the airport. I figure I should take a-Dry sack for my electronics, toiletries-just in case of a delayed/lost bag situation. Do any of you do this, and if so, how big of a carry-on do you use? Thanks to all who chime in.
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
I carry on my Gossamer Gear Mariposa, which meets all the measurements. It has a 40 L main bag which can be extended to 65 L. For Camino, it is only about 1/2 full. The pack itself weighs just under 2 pounds.

I never check my backpack since the time I flew in for a backpacking trip and the airlines lost the pack with all my clothing and gear. I had to scramble to replace everything, much of it heavier and inferior to what was lost,f in order to get to the trail head on time.
 
I check my pack. Cash, electronics, meds, and shoes go in a carry-on. I use Saskatoon Samsonite for this. Most people mistake this elegant type of jet-set carry on for a disposable plastic shopping bag.

Buen Camino!
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
Measure your backpack and compare to the airline's dimensions. Most likely you can carry it on board. If it is stuffed too full, or if you have items that aren't allowed, put a few things into a cheap disposable back or even a cardboard box with string around it. Check those few items and carry your precious backpack and most of your belongings on board with you. In case of lost luggage, you will not need to replace everything!
 
Yesterday we checked in our big luggage and walking sticks. Ian’s backpack was carry on. He has a 50 litre bag. The total weight is just under 9 kg and carries all of his stuff, excluding his luxury item, his iPad. This was in Melbourne and Paris. We flew to Rome
 
I use a 6Lt dry bag for carry on items, meds., phone, food and drink, which is recycled to hold other things whilst walking. It also gets used for shopping together with a shemagh for bulky items.
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
I am unshakably in the “never check my backpack” camp. At least not on the way to the Camino. Having to replace all this stuff I’ve obsessed about and culled and weighed and repaired for months would be a very not fun way to start a camino. I can’t imagine carrying a pack so big it couldn’t fit in the overhead bin anyway.

I carry a lightweight foldable shopping bag that I can use for groceries while walking, to avoid plastic bags. I also use it on the flight home to carry my essentials. I know that I will have to check my hiking poles on the way home in Santiago (have been carrying them on for a decade on the way over there, so far no problem), so I just stick them in my pack and check the whole thing for the flight home. If it gets lost, that just means I will have a whole year to obsess about gear all over again.
 
Never lost a bag in years of travelling to some dodgy places.... Maybe I shouldn't temp fate and post that... I used to be able to take my pack on as cabin luggage as it comes in under the 7kg limit, but on strapping my new one down and measuring it I note it is 61cm long not the max 56 cm....

Am hoping I strike some leiniant cabin crew... Not the b@$&*d that confiscated my circular knitting needles leaving me with a 500 stitch 4 colour fairilse jumper unravelling in my bag.
 
My 16 liter Sea to Summit Shoulder Bag does triple duty ++ as my fly-over and back carry-on bag. It contains my electronics, documents, valuables and medication. Everything else is checked.

When I arrive at my first night's destination, this handy sack compresses down to the size of a kiwi fruit. It rides in my right hip rucksack pocket. While on Camino, it is my shopping bag when I come into a town and need provisions, a day-bag if I am on a rest-day, a laundry bag if I am seeking a coin-laundry, and an outer cover to my ziplock bag(s) if and when I need to share a shower in an albergue situation.

I find them easily on Amazon. A good alternative that might be more available locally, is a similarly very lightweight day pack with shoulder straps, also by Sea to Summit. That bag holds 20 liters.

Hope this helps.
 
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Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
I have checked my backpack almost every time as the Security can vary depending on the mood of the individual screening the bags. Friends have had poles confiscated. The one time I decided to carry my pack on board, through Madrid on the way home, my poles were confiscated. I have never had an issue with checking the pack. When checking the backpack I put in an Osprey Airporter Bag to protect the harness from conveyor belts etc. I carry a small light weight bag for my essentials, electrics etc. then, if I feel like getting my backpack transported for a day whilst walking I have something to put rain gear in. Even with the Airporter bag and light weight daybag my pack still comes in at under 9kg. hope this is of some use.
 
If you fly Iberia, do not check your pack! They are notorious for lost luggage and for not caring. If your pack is too big to carry on an international flight, you are bringing too much! I agree with checking it out of Santiago as I love my pacer poles and Santiago airport security will grab them in a heartbeat.
 
If you fly Iberia, do not check your pack! They are notorious for lost luggage and for not caring. If your pack is too big to carry on an international flight, you are bringing too much! I agree with checking it out of Santiago as I love my pacer poles and Santiago airport security will grab them in a heartbeat.
I flew Iberia a lot and they never lost my checked-in backpack but anyway the companies don't have their staff to deal with the luggage, it's the airport staff. Although the companies might print out wrong stickers for the luggage, that's true. Everything else is a matter of scanners, automatized process (conveyor belts) or possible theft. Later happened to me in Barcelona when my Swiss army knife was missing but it was my fault because I put it in an outside pocket and really easy to take it ;)
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
Hello Pilgrims! I'm planning on taking a 48L bag on my camino, and based on all my research, I'll have to check that bad boy in once I get to the airport. I figure I should take a-Dry sack for my electronics, toiletries-just in case of a delayed/lost bag situation. Do any of you do this, and if so, how big of a carry-on do you use? Thanks to all who chime in.
Not to worry--a 48L pack will fit in the overhead just fine. My Gregory 48L pack did on both US and International flights. Be sure to not have things hanging from it and cinch it down. But there's plenty of room. The only time you'll have to check it would be if you're flying on smaller "commuter" jets in the US to connect, but even then, gate check it, do not check it at the ticket counter. Might want to put things you'll need during the flight in a stuff sack for under your seat. If you'd like more advice on the Camino, please see my blog: CaminoJoe.com. Buen Camino!
 
Not to worry--a 48L pack will fit in the overhead just fine.

It depends on the pack. For the camino I am about to embark upon, I am limited to "carry on only". I checked the posted dimensions for carry on luggage and measured the backpack I took on my last camino (30 or 35L). It wouldn't fit. It has a very rigid back and the length was a couple of inches too long. With the rigid back, it wasn't going to get any shorter. The pack my teenage son took (about the same volume) wasn't quite as tall. It will fit. I've been wearing it (fully loaded) on my training walks and expect to take it with me.
 
It depends on the pack. For the camino I am about to embark upon, I am limited to "carry on only". I checked the posted dimensions for carry on luggage and measured the backpack I took on my last camino (30 or 35L). It wouldn't fit. It has a very rigid back and the length was a couple of inches too long. With the rigid back, it wasn't going to get any shorter. The pack my teenage son took (about the same volume) wasn't quite as tall. It will fit. I've been wearing it (fully loaded) on my training walks and expect to take it with me.
Ah, true, David! I was basing my comment on an internal frame or frameless pack. External frame packs are considerably longer and won't compress.
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
I have an older REI pack that is either 42 or 45L as it is rubbed off on the pack. (I think 42) I have never had problems bringing it on the plane. I had done it many, many times. I am of the school to never check your backpack. I bring a small box to check my walking sticks and my Swiss Army Knife. That is it.
 
1. I purchased a 4-inch / 100mm x 42-inch /100 cm shipping tube, cut it in half, and taped the two pieces together with duct tape. I put my wife's and my trekking poles in these tubes, along with our liquids and my Swiss army knife, applied a label with my I.D. information and my US and Spanish telephone numbers (I purchased a SIM card ahead of time), and checked this in at the airport.

2. I carried my backpack (OspretKestral 38L) on the plane as cabin luggage. Before boarding, I removed select items -- cell phone, camera, a few snack bars, and a change of underwear and socks -- and placed them in a small, very lightweight daypack I bought at Walmart for less than US$10.00. I carried this on the airplane and stowed it under the seat. This accomplished three things: a) I was able to compress my main pack down to a size that ensured it was withing the carry-on dimensions; b) made sure my phone, camera, and basic change of clothing was always with me in case for some reason the airline made me gate check my main backpack; and c) the daypack compressed down to a small ball about the size of a large orange, so I had it available for shopping around towns and carrying raingear while on the Camino.

3. I carried my main backpack in the airplane cabin and stowed it in the overhead bin, as did my wife, who had a similar daypack and similar-sized main backpack.

I've attached photos of all the above.

IMG_0509_small.jpgIMG_0512.JPGIMG_0513.JPG
 
A backpack in the 48L size range is small enough to be a carry-on on most flights. I have done it several times. The only time I have checked it on is on a short, regional flight on a smaller airliner with bins in the cabin so small you would have a difficult time putting a 25-30L pack in them. For the larger airliners, the ones you fly 99% of the time, it is doable. Mind you, that is if it is not packed to the gills. Then you may have some problems, and quite honestly you may be carrying too many things to walk the Camino.
I have recommended to friends who go walk the Camino to completely avoid packing any of the things you can purchase upon arrival. Soaps, toothpaste and other toiletries. Also I tell them to simply purchase a set of trekking poles upon arrival. That is assuming they want to use trekking poles.
It is nice to just be able to board the aircraft with a bag small enough to fit in the bin and not have to be concerned about retrieving it upon arrival or with dealing with security before boarding about what or what cannot be carried on. It is in a small way liberating.
If you absolutely must for some reason have those things with you when you travel to walk the Camino, simply put them in a cardboard box/cheap duffel and check it on the flight and dispose the box or duffel upon arrival.
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
For years I have used a 'Patagucci" lightweight 15 liter shoulder bag. Weight 232 gms. One of those items that has multi uses besides carry-on: shopping bag, shower bag, around town for poncho umbrella etc, internal stuff sack, and even a day pack when forwarding gear.
 
Hello Pilgrims! I'm planning on taking a 48L bag on my camino, and based on all my research, I'll have to check that bad boy in once I get to the airport. I figure I should take a-Dry sack for my electronics, toiletries-just in case of a delayed/lost bag situation. Do any of you do this, and if so, how big of a carry-on do you use? Thanks to all who chime in.
I always check my bag and just take the ‘neck wallet’ with me... Carries my important stuff, like passport, phone etc...
https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/p/e...Vx53tCh2YtgvHEAQYASABEgKE_vD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
 
Not sure how many litres, but I just borrowed my boyfriends hunting bag. It fitted the basic hand luggage standart 55*40*20, some airlines had 55*40*23 it was more than enough. I had an extra small around waist wallet for my passport, kindle, mobile and money. :)
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
If you go by Easyjet there is no weight limit for carry on baggage the dimensions are restricted to 56 x 45 x 25 cm but you are not allowed any other items such as a hand bag or laptop bag unless you pay for priority. But there is a way around this, pack your backpack with your stuff plus any liquids sharps poles and other forbidden items and squeeze the bag so it meets the dimensions. Then get a small bag to keep valuable electronics and any other stuff on the flight. When you arrive at the airport go to the baggage check in that has a real person at the desk and ask for handsfree which will cost £5/6 Euro. This saves paying the £30 fee for a checked bag even though your bag is checked and you don't need to take it through security. What is even better is that you get free priority boarding which means you get first crack at the overhead lockers.
 
I do not understand why people keep asking if a backpack of particular volume (L) will be allowed. The starting point for this prediction is simply to measure and determine if you fit within the prescribed dimensions. If you don't, then you know you need a Plan B in case the airline staff enforce their rules.
 
Yesterday we checked in our big luggage and walking sticks. Ian’s backpack was carry on. He has a 50 litre bag. The total weight is just under 9 kg and carries all of his stuff, excluding his luxury item, his iPad. This was in Melbourne and Paris. We flew to Rome
Hi MeandIan,
I’m wondering about the shoulder and hip straps - do you wrap these when carrying on or just stuff it into the overhead locker? My old backpack had a zip out cover which kept the straps from catching on things. Cheers
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
I carry on my Gossamer Gear Mariposa, which meets all the measurements. It has a 40 L main bag which can be extended to 65 L. For Camino, it is only about 1/2 full. The pack itself weighs just under 2 pounds.

I never check my backpack since the time I flew in for a backpacking trip and the airlines lost the pack with all my clothing and gear. I had to scramble to replace everything, much of it heavier and inferior to what was lost,f in order to get to the trail head on time.
Thanks! Gonna look into that bag.
 
Yesterday we checked in our big luggage and walking sticks. Ian’s backpack was carry on. He has a 50 litre bag. The total weight is just under 9 kg and carries all of his stuff, excluding his luxury item, his iPad. This was in Melbourne and Paris. We flew to Rome
That's horrible! That's my fear. Thanks for sharing.
 
Transport luggage-passengers.
From airports to SJPP
Luggage from SJPP to Roncevalles
I do not understand why people keep asking if a backpack of particular volume (L) will be allowed. The starting point for this prediction is simply to measure and determine if you fit within the prescribed dimensions. If you don't, then you know you need a Plan B in case the airline staff enforce their rules.
I agree. It is an inquiry quite common on this forum, and so vague in question that it is impossible to answer. Not all 48L backpacks are the same size when packed by different people. Not all 35L packs are, or 30L packs are etc etc etc.
So to the uninitiated, cautious, curious etc my best advice is to take your backpack and pack it exactly as you plan on doing on the day of your departure. After doing so, measure its dimensions. If there are things in there you are afraid of damaging you probably shouldn't be carrying them on a 800 kilometre walk. Same goes if they are things you fear may be confiscated at airport security. In other words, remove anything dodgy or iffy. Trust me, not worth the hassle. I have been there. I have literally tossed things into a trash bin at the airport so I can carry-on my backpack.
So, now that you have measured your loaded backpack, compare said measurements against the photo I have attached. Convert to metric if necessary. I found this photo on the net, and while not representative of all airlines, I would say it is of most. If it is too big a backpack, rethink what you are carrying or check it on the flight as checked baggage in the cargo hold.
image.jpg
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
I check my pack. Cash, electronics, meds, and shoes go in a carry-on. I use Saskatoon Samsonite for this. Most people mistake this elegant type of jet-set carry on for a disposable plastic shopping bag.

Buen Camino!
LOL! Great idea!
 
A backpack in the 48L size range is small enough to be a carry-on on most flights. I have done it several times. The only time I have checked it on is on a short, regional flight on a smaller airliner with bins in the cabin so small you would have a difficult time putting a 25-30L pack in them. For the larger airliners, the ones you fly 99% of the time, it is doable. Mind you, that is if it is not packed to the gills. Then you may have some problems, and quite honestly you may be carrying too many things to walk the Camino.
I have recommended to friends who go walk the Camino to completely avoid packing any of the things you can purchase upon arrival. Soaps, toothpaste and other toiletries. Also I tell them to simply purchase a set of trekking poles upon arrival. That is assuming they want to use trekking poles.
It is nice to just be able to board the aircraft with a bag small enough to fit in the bin and not have to be concerned about retrieving it upon arrival or with dealing with security before boarding about what or what cannot be carried on. It is in a small way liberating.
If you absolutely must for some reason have those things with you when you travel to walk the Camino, simply put them in a cardboard box/cheap duffel and check it on the flight and dispose the box or duffel upon arrival.
Yes, I'm planning on getting Trekking poles in SJPP.
 
If you fly Iberia, do not check your pack! They are notorious for lost luggage and for not caring. If your pack is too big to carry on an international flight, you are bringing too much! I agree with checking it out of Santiago as I love my pacer poles and Santiago airport security will grab them in a heartbeat.

I respectfully disagree. I regularly fly Iberia direct from Miami to Madrid, and sometimes with connections to Santiago or elsewhere. In six such journeys I have NEVER had a problem with luggage.

To help Iberia connect my checked rucksack, I always place the rucksack in a brightly colored nylon laundry bag before checking. This makes it hard to snag on machinery, easy to spot, and easy for the baggage handlers to grab.

Hope this helps.
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
1. I purchased a 4-inch / 100mm x 42-inch /100 cm shipping tube, cut it in half, and taped the two pieces together with duct tape. I put my wife's and my trekking poles in these tubes, along with our liquids and my Swiss army knife, applied a label with my I.D. information and my US and Spanish telephone numbers (I purchased a SIM card ahead of time), and checked this in at the airport.

2. I carried my backpack (OspretKestral 38L) on the plane as cabin luggage. Before boarding, I removed select items -- cell phone, camera, a few snack bars, and a change of underwear and socks -- and placed them in a small, very lightweight daypack I bought at Walmart for less than US$10.00. I carried this on the airplane and stowed it under the seat. This accomplished three things: a) I was able to compress my main pack down to a size that ensured it was withing the carry-on dimensions; b) made sure my phone, camera, and basic change of clothing was always with me in case for some reason the airline made me gate check my main backpack; and c) the daypack compressed down to a small ball about the size of a large orange, so I had it available for shopping around towns and carrying raingear while on the Camino.

3. I carried my main backpack in the airplane cabin and stowed it in the overhead bin, as did my wife, who had a similar daypack and similar-sized main backpack.

I've attached photos of all the above.

View attachment 45996View attachment 45997View attachment 45998
Thanks! This is what I'll do. I appreciate the help!
 
Hello Pilgrims! I'm planning on taking a 48L bag on my camino, and based on all my research, I'll have to check that bad boy in once I get to the airport. I figure I should take a-Dry sack for my electronics, toiletries-just in case of a delayed/lost bag situation. Do any of you do this, and if so, how big of a carry-on do you use? Thanks to all who chime in.
So you don’t state your route for flying , I am in Burgos now arrived 2 days ago with AC to LHR checked my pack 48lt kestrel, have a daypack for carry on , next was BA to Madrid £65 to check bag so I bundled the daypack inside the kestrel and carried it on at no charge, next flight Madrid to Bilbao Iberia Airlines no way allowed to take carry on that doesn’t fit underneath your seat, since I was the last passenger to arrive the staff checked it for me no charge.
My point is this time of the year airlines are full and they don’t like big carry on bags. Worth mentioning that the poles were never an issue. Madrid airport is a nightmare !
 
So you don’t state your route for flying , I am in Burgos now arrived 2 days ago with AC to LHR checked my pack 48lt kestrel, have a daypack for carry on , next was BA to Madrid £65 to check bag so I bundled the daypack inside the kestrel and carried it on at no charge, next flight Madrid to Bilbao Iberia Airlines no way allowed to take carry on that doesn’t fit underneath your seat, since I was the last passenger to arrive the staff checked it for me no charge.
My point is this time of the year airlines are full and they don’t like big carry on bags. Worth mentioning that the poles were never an issue. Madrid airport is a nightmare !
Estelle, I'm flying into Madrid from Miami. I think that I may have found the best solution in using a Hyperlite 2400 bag. These bags are much easier to compress and cinch tight than the Osprey that I was looking at. If I pack it right,-(not beyond the tops of the shoulder straps)- it should meet airline carry- on requirements and I won't need a daypack. Thanks for the info.
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
My 36 liter Marmot is just a couple of inches/cm too long to meet carry-on requirements for most airlines. As there is a rigid backpiece I can't "squish" it down to fit. I haven't had any problem with United and Lufthansa - they really didn't even look at it, but this year I had a Ryanair flight, so I brought a NorthFace 32 liter that fit their size restrictions.
 
My 36 liter Marmot is just a couple of inches/cm too long to meet carry-on requirements for most airlines. As there is a rigid backpiece I can't "squish" it down to fit. I haven't had any problem with United and Lufthansa - they really didn't even look at it, but this year I had a Ryanair flight, so I brought a NorthFace 32 liter that fit their size restrictions.
Pack I'm looking at.
 
This is always risky but I use a 45L rucksack as a carry on for most of my travels. Cinched down hard, it fits in the overhead lockers fine but I suspect wouldnt meet dimensions. However, ve developed the habit of taking it off and putting it out of sight of the check in desk before they can get a good look at it. If you have all the bits ready they re usually happy to get you out of the way sharpish...

However, usually I'm checking in a massive bag or bike or ski bag too though so maybe the proportions throw out their internal calibrations ;)

The problem I'd have for the Camino though would be carrying something i couldnt get through security, toiletries or a penknife or whathaveyou...
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Estelle, I'm flying into Madrid from Miami. I think that I may have found the best solution in using a Hyperlite 2400 bag. These bags are much easier to compress and cinch tight than the Osprey that I was looking at. If I pack it right,-(not beyond the tops of the shoulder straps)- it should meet airline carry- on requirements and I won't need a daypack. Thanks for the info.
You are correct the two Ospreys are giving me a headache! Buen Camino
 
I think the only correct answer to the question is to be sure your pack fits the carryon dimensions posted by the airline. If it's too big, check it. I boarded the plane with a pack that was well under the size allowed and was told all of the overheads were full. I had observed many who boarded with bags that should never have been allowed because of their size. In the end, the one who followed the rules had to have her bag taken away and put in the baggage hold at the last minute...is that fair? I didn't think so. Life isn't fair, but we should all at least try to respect rules, not brag about disobeying them and punishing others.
 
My 16 liter Sea to Summit Shoulder Bag does triple duty ++ as my fly-over and back carry-on bag. It contains my electronics, documents, valuables and medication. Everything else is checked.

When I arrive at my first night's destination, this handy sack compresses down to the size of a kiwi fruit. It rides in my right hip rucksack pocket. While on Camino, it is my shopping bag when I come into a town and need provisions, a day-bag if I am on a rest-day, a laundry bag if I am seeking a coin-laundry, and an outer cover to my ziplock bag(s) if and when I need to share a shower in an albergue situation.

I second the Sea to Summit collapsable bags, only I have the backpack version. Used mine identically to t2andreo.

I also never check my backpack. It's a 38L and it fit fine in the overhead. I can't imagine having a bag any larger than that.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
If you fly Iberia, do not check your pack! They are notorious for lost luggage and for not caring. If your pack is too big to carry on an international flight, you are bringing too much! I agree with checking it out of Santiago as I love my pacer poles and Santiago airport security will grab them in a heartbeat.
I don’t know where you got your info about Iberia being notorious for losing luggage. I fly Iberia and they have never lost my checked backpack.
 
Yesterday we checked in our big luggage and walking sticks. We flew to Rome

Which airline did you use Meandin ? I'm worried that my 35 litre Atmos exceeds Emirates's maximum dimensions by 5 mm .
 
I don’t know where you got your info about Iberia being notorious for losing luggage. I fly Iberia and they have never lost my checked backpack.
Three fellow pilgrims experienced this first hand. Not a nice way to begin. Read reviews from several years ago. Not only was their lost luggage percentage high but customer service was terrible if you were not Spanish. Once you been one of the unlucky ones (or witnessed the crisis of a lost backpack by a friend), you become more circumspect. Hopefully they have improved because I am flying them this fall but I will still not check my pack before I walk.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
I don’t know where you got your info about Iberia being notorious for losing luggage. I fly Iberia and they have never lost my checked backpack.

In 2010, British Airways bought Iberia. There were lots of news reports at the time about how Iberia workers, who were NOT in favor of the merger, were trying to sabotage things by having lots of bags from BA and other code share partners "go missing." I don't know that that was ever well established, but rumors like this tend to make their way into our consciousness.

More to the point, though, I would never check my backpack on any airline on my way to the camino. Sure the odds of loss are minimal, but having to buy everything new in Spain would be such a nightmare that I would never chance it. Iberia lost my checked poles once, which is why I never check them either, because it was a huge hassle to replace them on my way to the Vdlp. I was so thankful it was only one item. Imagine having to buy everything new right before starting out. I am not trying to be a fear monger, but we see occasional posts from people in this situation and it is not a good way to start a camino. I always check it on the way home, though, because the consequences of a lost backpack are so unimportant.

p.s. Here are some statistics, and this was before the merger

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/5560131/Iberia-worst-airline-for-losing-luggage.html


Major US airlines reported at 2-4 bags "mishandled" per thousand. And Iberia, in 2009, had more than 15 per thousand. Even though 3 per thousand seems tiny, that's one on every two or three big planeloads. I desperately do not want to be that person!
 
In 2010, British Airways bought Iberia. There were lots of news reports at the time about how Iberia workers, who were NOT in favor of the merger, were trying to sabotage things by having lots of bags from BA and other code share partners "go missing." I don't know that that was ever well established, but rumors like this tend to make their way into our consciousness.

More to the point, though, I would never check my backpack on any airline on my way to the camino. Sure the odds of loss are minimal, but having to buy everything new in Spain would be such a nightmare that I would never chance it. Iberia lost my checked poles once, which is why I never check them either, because it was a huge hassle to replace them on my way to the Vdlp. I was so thankful it was only one item. Imagine having to buy everything new right before starting out. I am not trying to be a fear monger, but we see occasional posts from people in this situation and it is not a good way to start a camino. I always check it on the way home, though, because the consequences of a lost backpack are so unimportant.

p.s. Here are some statistics, and this was before the merger

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/5560131/Iberia-worst-airline-for-losing-luggage.html


Major US airlines reported at 2-4 bags "mishandled" per thousand. And Iberia, in 2009, had more than 15 per thousand. Even though 3 per thousand seems tiny, that's one on every two or three big planeloads. I desperately do not want to be that person!
I surrender!! I realize just because i’ve never experienced my pack being lost probably ups the odds that it will be. As the saying goes” there’s a 1st time for everything” next trip I’ll just check my poles much easier to replace. Thanks for the common sense advice. 😊🚶🏽‍♀️
 
I surrender!! I realize just because i’ve never experienced my pack being lost probably ups the odds that it will be. As the saying goes” there’s a 1st time for everything” next trip I’ll just check my poles much easier to replace. Thanks for the common sense advice. 😊🚶🏽‍♀️

Just to reinforce your new decision: a few years ago I had to fly out-of-state in order to get to a trail head for a 3 week backpacking trip in the Colorado Rockies. Up to that point, I had always checked my backpack as luggage, containing all of my gear and clothing, whenever I had to fly to a destination for a backpacking trip.

This time it was lost. To this day, it has never been recovered. The airline suspected that it was stolen at some point during the baggage handling process. Since then, I have talked to other backpackers who have had their backpacks lost -- not necessarily stolen -- when flying.

So, here I was 24 hours prior to needing to start the hiking trip. I was tired, and had been hoping to rest up for a a good day at altitude (11,000 feet), in order to get a bit of a head start acclimating because of the hike being above 9800 ft for most of that trip.

Instead, I had to spend much of the day replacing gear and clothing. Some, I could do a direct replacement. For other stuff, like my tent and sleeping quilt which were special ordered, I had to make due with something heavier and less efficient. Plus, I had to replace all of the freeze dried food I had packed.

Below is my backpacking gear list. That was what was lost and needed replacing within 24 hours.

52082
 
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There seems to be lots of discussion about dimensions of carry on luggage. It is worth noting, however, that there is also a weight limit. It is usually 7Kg for we Economy travellers. In recent times, in Australia at least, the airlines have become more strict about the weight than they used to be.
 
There seems to be lots of discussion about dimensions of carry on luggage. It is worth noting, however, that there is also a weight limit. It is usually 7Kg for we Economy travellers. In recent times, in Australia at least, the airlines have become more strict about the weight than they used to be.

I guess the only thing to be surprised about is that they didn't think of this sooner. Yet another way to harass and get money from passengers! I have not yet seen this happen in the US, but I suppose we should prepare outselves for this.
 
There seems to be lots of discussion about dimensions of carry on luggage. It is worth noting, however, that there is also a weight limit. It is usually 7Kg for we Economy travellers. In recent times, in Australia at least, the airlines have become more strict about the weight than they used to be.
Weight and size restrictions are airline dependent. You always need to check with the airline(s) that you are not flying with. So far most US based airlines don't have a carry on weight requirement, other than your own ability to lift it up yo put in the overhead bin.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
I have successfully carried my 48L bag (with rubber tipped poles inside) on board as a carryon with Southwest, Delta, Air France, American, Air Canada, United, & Alaska Air. I do carry a disposable bag so I can transfer critical items to continue with me should I be required to check my backpack.
 
Just to reinforce your new decision: a few years ago I had to fly out-of-state in order to get to a trail head for a 3 week backpacking trip in the Colorado Rockies. Up to that point, I had always checked my backpack as luggage, containing all of my gear and clothing, whenever I had to fly to a destination for a backpacking trip.

This time it was lost. To this day, it has never been recovered. The airline suspected that it was stolen at some point during the baggage handling process. Since then, I have talked to other backpackers who have had their backpacks lost -- not necessarily stolen -- when flying.

So, here I was 24 hours prior to needing to start the hiking trip. I was tired, and had been hoping to rest up for a a good day at altitude (11,000 feet), in order to get a bit of a head start acclimating because of the hike being above 9800 ft for most of that trip.

Instead, I had to spend much of the day replacing gear and clothing. Some, I could do a direct replacement. For other stuff, like my tent and sleeping quilt which were special ordered, I had to make due with something heavier and less efficient. Plus, I had to replace all of the freeze dried food I had packed.

Below is my backpacking gear list. That was what was lost and needed replacing within 24 hours.

View attachment 52082
Wow! That must have been stressful! Glad you had the ability to recover and keep moving! How are you feeling these days? I'm off in less than 2 weeks. I'm so excited to do my first Camino! Thanks for being so inspirational and helpful!!
 
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Wow! That must have been stressful! Glad you had the ability to recover and keep moving! How are you feeling these days? I'm off in less than 2 weeks. I'm so excited to do my first Camino! Thanks for being so inspirational and helpful!!

Thank you for your kind words. Have a wonderful Camino and may it be a time of renewal and blessing for you. :)
 
1. I purchased a 4-inch / 100mm x 42-inch /100 cm shipping tube, cut it in half, and taped the two pieces together with duct tape. I put my wife's and my trekking poles in these tubes, along with our liquids and my Swiss army knife, applied a label with my I.D. information and my US and Spanish telephone numbers (I purchased a SIM card ahead of time), and checked this in at the airport.

2. I carried my backpack (OspretKestral 38L) on the plane as cabin luggage. Before boarding, I removed select items -- cell phone, camera, a few snack bars, and a change of underwear and socks -- and placed them in a small, very lightweight daypack I bought at Walmart for less than US$10.00. I carried this on the airplane and stowed it under the seat. This accomplished three things: a) I was able to compress my main pack down to a size that ensured it was withing the carry-on dimensions; b) made sure my phone, camera, and basic change of clothing was always with me in case for some reason the airline made me gate check my main backpack; and c) the daypack compressed down to a small ball about the size of a large orange, so I had it available for shopping around towns and carrying raingear while on the Camino.

3. I carried my main backpack in the airplane cabin and stowed it in the overhead bin, as did my wife, who had a similar daypack and similar-sized main backpack.

I've attached photos of all the above.

View attachment 45996View attachment 45997View attachment 45998
HI, just wondering how much the airlines charged for this small bundle of checked goods? Or did your ticket include a checked item?
 
HI, just wondering how much the airlines charged for this small bundle of checked goods? Or did your ticket include a checked item?
This may be out-of-date information, but the last time I traveled internationally with checked baggage from the US in 2017, the airlines were required (perhaps by some sort of international agreement) to allow each passenger to check two pieces of luggage at no additional cost. The only limitation was the normal size limitation. We were also allowed two carry-on items, one in the overhead bin and one beneath the seat. That was our backpacks and a small daypack with essentials. The tubes with the poles were the only checked items, so they traveled free also.
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
This may be out-of-date information, but the last time I traveled internationally with checked baggage from the US in 2017, the airlines were required (perhaps by some sort of international agreement) to allow each passenger to check two pieces of luggage at no additional cost. The only limitation was the normal size limitation. We were also allowed two carry-on items, one in the overhead bin and one beneath the seat. That was our backpacks and a small daypack with essentials. The tubes with the poles were the only checked items, so they traveled free also.

Yup, unfortunately they have taken a page from the budget guys (Ryan Air,Spirit,Easyjet...) and have a starting fare which seems to me the same price as what used to include the bags, now no checked bags and only a small carry-on. Be careful next time you book, also most start with totally non-refundable flights also. :(
 
This may be out-of-date information, but the last time I traveled internationally with checked baggage from the US in 2017, the airlines were required (perhaps by some sort of international agreement) to allow each passenger to check two pieces of luggage at no additional cost. The only limitation was the normal size limitation. We were also allowed two carry-on items, one in the overhead bin and one beneath the seat. That was our backpacks and a small daypack with essentials. The tubes with the poles were the only checked items, so they traveled free also.
That wasn't even true in 2017. Right now, (as in 2017) most major US airlines do allow one checked bag, one full sized carry on and one personal item for transatlantic flights. However, they are now selling what they call Basic Economy fares, which don't include any checked bags. Passengers with "status" on the airline or who hold certain airline credit cards may get additional free luggage.
There are also low cost carriers such as Norwegian and Level which don't include checked bags or even meals on transatlantic flights.
It's always wise to compare the costs of flights with all of the extras that you might need to add on.
 
have a starting fare which seems to me the same price as what used to include the bags
Air travel is much cheaper now, compared to incomes and other costs of living, than it used to be. Now we have more choices, which include some rock-bottom fares without baggage, meals and refundability.
 
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One consequence of the rise in fees, and one that is not much on the radar screen, is that taxex paid by the airlines have decreased. Unless things have changed, and speaking only for the US, the federal excise tax (7.5%) applies only to ticket prices, not fees, so airlines are making more at the taxpayers’ expense.
 
I always have a day supply in my carry on. Daughter had to chase her back bag all around US. So you might be safe in Europe. I use a dry bag from my packing and then return it to my back bag once I have it. Plus should the pack get delayed I still can start walking since I got the essentials of the essentials. It serves for my wet clothes dirty cloths evening shopping .
Most Airlines welcome if you drop your carry on off for no fee and you can take something small on board with you.
 

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