Mr_Ross_Duncan
Via Gebennensis, Portuguese, Via Francigena, GR65,
- Time of past OR future Camino
- Via Gebennensis, Portuguese, Via Francigena, GR65,
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Prioritize! Only check what you can replace easily.I would NEVER go TO a Camino with a checked pack. You need everything in it to arrive. I have checked a $2 mailing tube containing my poles, extra liquids such as sunscreen, contact lens solution, small nail scissors, etc.—all the easily replaceable. If you want to check it on the way home where loss does not matter, have at it. But going over to start I recommend keeping everything close!
Í have done this trip now on three occasions. I have an "over pack" that holds my backpack (up to 55 ltrs). I can lock it with one or two padlocks and have not had it "opened" by any outsider. The cover can be rolled up and carried externally or used as an additional "rain coat" for the pack.We've given up the on idea that we will be able to take our Osprey 36 packs onboard as hand luggage on a long haul flight from Australia. That leaves us with having to check them in and hoping they arrive in Lyon at the same time as us, some 30 odd hours and three changes later. (Via Podiensis).
We'll be taking anything of value out of the packs and in hand luggage, but any suggestions on how to secure against any theft from the packs that will be in the hold would be appreciated.
Spain no doubt thanks you to the ever increasing burden of plastic film in its landfill sites.In our 3 previous and current Camino we have always checked our packs in the way suggested by @kirkie and @BookGirl305 describe. We put both packs in a large wheelable duffel with poles. Put a TSA approved lock on it and wrap the whole thing Saran Wrap. Once we get to our destination we put the duffel in a box at the post office and mail it forward. In our case we send it forward to Burgos where we will be Hospitaleros when we finish our Camino. We do however fly direct from JFK to Madrid.
Because of potential restrictions on hiking poles, I get from Walmart or Ikea a cheap duffle bag big enough to accommodate poles, backpack, and any other clothes I plan to wear for a day or two at my starting location. I have never been concernedabout the backpack being stolen, but if it’s insidea duffle bag it’s less likely thethe straps etc. will get caught and damaged in baggage handling machines——plus it takes care of my sticks,We've given up the on idea that we will be able to take our Osprey 36 packs onboard as hand luggage on a long haul flight from Australia. That leaves us with having to check them in and hoping they arrive in Lyon at the same time as us, some 30 odd hours and three changes later. (Via Podiensis).
We'll be taking anything of value out of the packs and in hand luggage, but any suggestions on how to secure against any theft from the packs that will be in the hold would be appreciated.
Another person willing to contribute to the world's waste plastic problemHave it wrapped in clingfilm at the airport.
Unwrapping these things is time consuming
IWe've given up the on idea that we will be able to take our Osprey 36 packs onboard as hand luggage on a long haul flight from Australia. That leaves us with having to check them in and hoping they arrive in Lyon at the same time as us, some 30 odd hours and three changes later. (Via Podiensis).
We'll be taking anything of value out of the packs and in hand luggage, but any suggestions on how to secure against any theft from the packs that will be in the hold would be appreciated.
I have done around 15 Caminos travelling from Canada. Because my backpack is an Osprey Atmos 50, l realize that the pack to be will be in unacceptable as a Carry On. I simply use my Rain cover to tightly cover the pack and ensure all strings and straps are stored inside the cover. I use Duct tape to provide additional security for the bag. It also makes a handi dandi carrying handle before I Check the pack as luggage. Also easy to transport your broken down poles. I wear my boots on the plane and bring my valuables in the pockets of my rain jacket that I also wear on the flight. This process has worked well for me over the years and I always welcomed seeing my yellow covered backpack waiting for me on the baggage carousel!We've given up the on idea that we will be able to take our Osprey 36 packs onboard as hand luggage on a long haul flight from Australia. That leaves us with having to check them in and hoping they arrive in Lyon at the same time as us, some 30 odd hours and three changes later. (Via Podiensis).
We'll be taking anything of value out of the packs and in hand luggage, but any suggestions on how to secure against any theft from the packs that will be in the hold would be appreciated.
I check my bag in, as I have on 1000+ flights through my working and retired life. Once, only, my bag was delayed into O’Hare. I’m wearing my walking boots, I carry my few valuables and a toothbrush. I’m insured and I’m pretty much always flying into a big city with shops.
Loss, misdirection and theft do occur. I know that.
If you have your wallet, etc. with you, what in the world would be in your pack that would be of interest to a thief?
The small packable grocery bag works great for this! Good advice!!Prioritize! Only check what you can replace easily.
Wear your first hiking outfit….including your jacket and vest. They can easily be put in the overhead area. Reduce the size of the pack by whatever means necessary to get in through! If it’s only half filled you should make it easily on the plane. Check a tube or nylons bag with your poles, I usually wrap them with a good amount of bubble wrap.
Wear your vest and valor jacket. Those are easy to put on and take off as needed. Put extra socks in your Jacket pockets. Wear your buff, or hat. Double up on what you are wearing when you board the plane (but be reasonable). After you get on the long flight take off whatever you can and store it in a plastic bag. Don’t keep all the clothing on during the flights. Remember that too much clothing can restrict blood flow and lead to thrombosis-so be judicious. Before you get on the second flight put them back on right before you get to the gate then take them off again…and repeat the process for the 3rd leg. Remember when you get off the plane no one cares how many bags you are carrying.
This is what I do. I have never had luggage lost or stolen. Is it a concern and happens more often in Spain? I fly from JFK to Madrid for the first time. I have a small suitcase with pole, pocket knife, stuff that cannot be carry on. You are all scaring me. I do not travel often, so am I naive?Í have done this trip now on three occasions. I have an "over pack" that holds my backpack (up to 55 ltrs). I can lock it with one or two padlocks and have not had it "opened" by any outsider. The cover can be rolled up and carried externally or used as an additional "rain coat" for the pack.
The locks I use are the USA TSA approved versions - key locked rather than combination. Osprey make one that should fit your packs. Best of luck
I have found that rolling your pack in a Saran wrap(kitchen plastic wrap) tight keeps my pack clean , stops straps from catching and discourages airline handlers from temptation . It costs $1 at Walmart . Rip it off , throw it away . Then buy another roll in Spain and roll it again for the return flight.We've given up the on idea that we will be able to take our Osprey 36 packs onboard as hand luggage on a long haul flight from Australia. That leaves us with having to check them in and hoping they arrive in Lyon at the same time as us, some 30 odd hours and three changes later. (Via Podiensis).
We'll be taking anything of value out of the packs and in hand luggage, but any suggestions on how to secure against any theft from the packs that will be in the hold would be appreciated.
Nothing beyond what you have done! I have my key documents and difficult to replace items like my phone, medications and camera in carry on, and everything else gets checked. I doubt there are thieves operating in aircraft holds, but I expect you are really thinking of when the bag is being loaded, trans-shipped and unloadedWe'll be taking anything of value out of the packs and in hand luggage, but any suggestions on how to secure against any theft from the packs that will be in the hold would be appreciated.
That is a great idea, I am flying to Biarrirz next month with Ryanair and have taken the option of a check-in bag. I have a travel bag for my pack which doubles as a rain cover but my concern was my hiking poles, would they survive the journey but a normal suitcase would provide the protection. Do you know how much is the cost of sending the case to Ivar from St Jean?You have travelled to Europe, and to Caminos, before. You have one option as posted above by @Corned Beef . Another is to use a secure but either disposable or send-able (forgive the makey uppy word) suitcase to contain both packs. You can dispose of, or send on to Ivar's storage facility, the suitcase for the return trip. I know which I would choose, to use the stereotype of my nationality () but also in today's climate, not to waste a perfectly good resource. Buen camino.
edit: the immediate post above mine also makes a useful suggestion.
You may want to watch Ivar's video about shipping to Santiago. Since you are starting in France it will be a bit trickier I think.That is a great idea, I am flying to Biarrirz next month with Ryanair and have taken the option of a check-in bag. I have a travel bag for my pack which doubles as a rain cover but my concern was my hiking poles, would they survive the journey but a normal suitcase would provide the protection. Do you know how much is the cost of sending the case to Ivar from St Jean?
I think you are taking the right approach. I personally don't get over-excited, but do take reasonable precautions. I always check my pack, and carry-on a small bag, somewhat the reverse of what you are doing, but the principles are the same in my view. I don't have expensive baggage, and on most occasions cover my pack with a cheap poly bag. I use tamper evident seals where I can and record the numbers rather than use locks. Neither will deter a determined thief, but it will be clear that your checked bag has been interfered with if that does happen. I have put some other suggestions in an earlier response at post #30.This is what I do. I have never had luggage lost or stolen. Is it a concern and happens more often in Spain? I fly from JFK to Madrid for the first time. I have a small suitcase with pole, pocket knife, stuff that cannot be carry on. You are all scaring me. I do not travel often, so am I naive?
Two points in reply to Jeff Crawley and Dougfitz. I would never use all of that plastic and throw it away. As well, I don't believe that the small TSA locks stop much in the way of determined theft. I have always checked my backpack and carried on a smaller bag with the things I cannot live without. I wear, on the plane. what I would hike in the first day. Anything else, I can replace.Another person willing to contribute to the world's waste plastic problem
View attachment 121150
Please consider using a reusable suitcase skin instead.
Ok friend. So not necessary.Shrink wrap rolls are available on Amazon that are very similar to what commercial bag wrapping services use in European and Asian airports.
https://www.amazon.com/Industrial-Wrap-Durable-Self-Adhering-Packaging-PACK/dp/B08RHJ9MZW/ref=mp_s_a_1_12?crid=TTUULZAM9P9W&keywords=shrink+wrap+roll&qid=1648146569&sprefix=shrink,aps,132&sr=8-12
Wrap the bag, straps, etc securely in several layers of the wrap leaving something protruding for the baggage handlers to grab. There is enough material on one roll to wrap 15 packs.
The wrap will not prevent tampering or theft but if you put on 3-4 layers of wrap it will definitely discourage anyone from taking anything. It will also prevent the pack harness and straps from getting fouled in any conveyors used to liad/unload aircraft.
You can do the same thing on the way home (wrapping service may be available at the Santiago or Madrid airports) for Eu 10-15.
I use the storage bag, listed here, to ensure that none of the straps get caught in equipment when loading or off loading. It is light but has made three trips to Spain with me without incidence. It then folds up quite small and is carried in the pack.
MEC Sleeping Bag Storage Bag - Unisex | MEC
Sleeping Bag Storage Bag: The best way to store a sleeping bag so it retains maximum loft, is to put it in a big sack.Made of lightweight ripstop nylon that lets your sleeping bag breathwww.mec.ca
MEC Sleeping Bag Storage Bag - Unisex | MEC
Sleeping Bag Storage Bag: The best way to store a sleeping bag so it retains maximum loft, is to put it in a big sack.Made of lightweight ripstop nylon that lets your sleeping bag breathwww.mec.ca
Have it wrapped in clingfilm at the airport.
Unwrapping these things is time consuming
I have found that rolling your pack in a Saran wrap(kitchen plastic wrap) tight keeps my pack clean , stops straps from catching and discourages airline handlers from temptation . It costs $1 at Walmart . Rip it off , throw it away . Then buy another roll in Spain and roll it again for the return flight.
My security hack is to bring a roll of kitchen wrap or cling wrap, as we call it, to the airport and I wrap the sack
The wrap will not prevent tampering or theft but if you put on 3-4 layers of wrap
My husband and I are going to wrap our packs in a packable wrap like this one below for baby strollers, that way the packs are out of sight, but safely inside the pack and it's a small packable bag once we get to France. We're coming from San Diego California, USA. Buen Camino~ R&M DowningWe've given up the on idea that we will be able to take our Osprey 36 packs onboard as hand luggage on a long haul flight from Australia. That leaves us with having to check them in and hoping they arrive in Lyon at the same time as us, some 30 odd hours and three changes later. (Via Podiensis).
We'll be taking anything of value out of the packs and in hand luggage, but any suggestions on how to secure against any theft from the packs that will be in the hold would be appreciated.
Just say no.My husband and I are going to wrap our packs in a packable wrap like this one below for baby strollers, that way the packs are out of sight, but safely inside the pack and it's a small packable bag once we get to France. We're coming from San Diego California, USA. Buen Camino~ R&M Downing
View attachment 121170
Glasshouse... stones.No wonder Europe has a plastic waste problem
We have had baggage checks done coming back from the US, but not elsewhere. I have wondered whether it still happens and why it would still need to with the sophistication of more modern scanning equipment.In the US, screeners have to be able to get into your checked luggage and I have often found the paper "notice" from the screeners in my luggage after I arrive saying that they have opened it and looked inside. It seems that may not be the case in other countries?
I would tie or tape them together, but these handle straps appear to be attached at both ends. They don't appear to present the same problem as back pack straps that have a loose end. Those I roll up and tape so that the roll cannot come loose while being tossed around by handlers or the luggage transfer machinery.So... in re: the bag I alluded to in my post above
am i to understand that I need to secure the strap handles somehow else they will get caught in some machinery?
thanks
I love the resonse. But at the same time. Seriously, you don’t need to wrap your bags with anything. Just bring it on board. And if your bag is too big to carry on an airplane, then well it’s too big to carry anyway.Glasshouse... stones.
Have you ever flown with Ryanair?I love the resonse. But at the same time. Seriously, you don’t need to wrap your bags with anything. Just bring it on board. And if your bag is too big to carry on an airplane, then well it’s too big to carry anyway.
If they see anything fishy on the scanner they open it and look.We have had baggage checks done coming back from the US, but not elsewhere. I have wondered whether it still happens and why it would still need to with the sophistication of more modern scanning equipment.
Yes, very limited!Have you ever flown with Ryanair?
I always thought that until they carefully checked a bag full of our dirty laundryIf they see anything fishy on the scanner they open it and look.
Indeed, I always had to check my rucksack, it wouldn't fit in the bag size cage, and no it wasn't too big to carry as I walked April/May and needed everything in it.Yes, very limited!
Heck yah. It’s such a blast. I love how it reminds me of my earlier days riding on a bus from Culver City to Santa Monica 25. A very few people will understand this reference.Have you ever flown with Ryanair?
I have always checked my bag, and will continue to do so. It is outside the carry-on dimensions for most airlines, and I carry things that are not permitted as carry-on. Sure if it is too big to carry as luggage, ie over 32 kg, I would agree with you that probably is a bit heavy!! Other than the issue of linear dimensions, I face a 7kg carry-on weight limit for most flights getting out of my home town. I haven't been down to that weight for any of my pilgrimage walks, nor am I tempted to try by doing any more weight reduction than I already do.I love the resonse. But at the same time. Seriously, you don’t need to wrap your bags with anything. Just bring it on board. And if your bag is too big to carry on an airplane, then well it’s too big to carry anyway.
I am a large male. 200lbs plus on occasion. Though one of the reasons I always come back is to get my walk on, and lose some of that weight.I have always checked my bag, and will continue to do so. It is outside the carry-on dimensions for most airlines, and I carry things that are not permitted as carry-on. Sure if it is too big to carry as luggage, ie over 32 kg, I would agree with you that probably is a bit heavy!! Other than the issue of linear dimensions, I face a 7kg limit for most flights getting out of my home town, and I haven't been down to that weight for any of my pilgrimage walks, nor am I tempted to try by doing any more weight reduction than I already do.
This comment puts you in the same category as all those of average size or under who loudly proclaim that no-one needs to carry anything larger than a 35 li pack. They clearly don't understand the relationship between body size and clothing dimensions that make this impossible for those of us who are taller and heavier. This is aside from age and some associated medical conditions requiring additional equipment and medications. Although I guess I could leave my CPAP at home and return to being the loudest snorer in a dormitory.
My accumulated experience of three Caminos - take all valuables with you as carry-on luggage, lock the two zip handles for the major backpak compartment together with a small cheap padlock, tie all extenal straps together, and relax...We've given up the on idea that we will be able to take our Osprey 36 packs onboard as hand luggage on a long haul flight from Australia. That leaves us with having to check them in and hoping they arrive in Lyon at the same time as us, some 30 odd hours and three changes later. (Via Podiensis).
We'll be taking anything of value out of the packs and in hand luggage, but any suggestions on how to secure against any theft from the packs that will be in the hold would be appreciated.
Yeowch.. Expensive.I took a couple this year, but after my bag arrived. Ouch!
View attachment 121176
View attachment 121177
Ps this was at the end of a horror day on domestic flights travelling from Canberra to Perth via Sydney and Melbourne.
That looks ideal, thanks for the tip off, I'll see if there's something similar available here for us. Cheers.These are the sort of packs you use together with a strong padlock. You'll find something similar locally.
Depending on the quality they can last for only a few trips as the airport handling can be unforgiving. They are particularly good for multiple packs as you can combine and save on the airline cost.
Pro-Tector Rucksack Covers | Rucksack Security | Rucksack Airline Cover | Rucksack Travel Cover
Pro-Tector Create Quality Travel Accessories Designed by a Backpacker including rucksack covers for rucksack security and protection, plus travel wallets, money belts and trekking pole bags.www.pro-tector.co.uk
I bet that hurt!I took a couple this year, but after my bag arrived. Ouch!
View attachment 121176
View attachment 121177
Ps this was at the end of a horror day on domestic flights travelling from Canberra to Perth via Sydney and Melbourne.
A couple of reasons, mainly the Singapore air baggage regulations, which statesWondering why you have given up on carrying them on board?
That looks ideal, thanks for the tip off, I'll see if there's something similar available here for us. Cheers.
That was one option for us, however our local airport doesn't have that option.Have it wrapped in clingfilm at the airport.
Unwrapping these things is time consuming
Global pollution . . . you find it humorous? Interesting.Glasshouse... stones.
Yes, I think some kind of lightweight bag to cover the backpack and can be locked will be the best idea, there will be nothing of value in them, however, that will not stop them from being rifled through if the opportunity arises.My experience as well. On numerous flights all over the world, I have never had a piece of luggage gone missing or even just delayed. Sheer luck? Perhaps.
You are right. A thief would hardly be interested in a (more or less) shabby backpack but would probably go for the expensive looking suitcase.
I always check my backpack just wrapped in a lightweight nylon bag to keep the straps from getting caught in the luggage conveyer belt– but each to their own.
Well done that airport.That was one option for us, however our local airport doesn't have that option.
Chill Jeff, people using a little cling wrap to secure their luggage isn't going to make or break the planet.Global pollution . . . you find it humorous? Interesting.
Lo siento. Cling wrap is unnecessary.Chill Jeff, people using a little cling wrap to secure their luggage isn't going to make or break the planet.
Anyway we are going way off what the op asked.
I guess that Jeff should chill if one person uses "a little cling wrap on their pack". How chill worthy is many people using cling wrap in an ongoing basis.Chill Jeff, people using a little cling wrap to secure their luggage isn't going to make or break the planet.
Anyway we are going way off what the op asked.
Stainless steel wire looped each end and a padlock. Also a bag liner. I've never had any theft problems. After all what is a dishonest baggage handler going to go for...expensive looking luggage or some backpackers pack?We've given up the on idea that we will be able to take our Osprey 36 packs onboard as hand luggage on a long haul flight from Australia. That leaves us with having to check them in and hoping they arrive in Lyon at the same time as us, some 30 odd hours and three changes later. (Via Podiensis).
We'll be taking anything of value out of the packs and in hand luggage, but any suggestions on how to secure against any theft from the packs that will be in the hold would be appreciated.
Stainless steel wire looped each end and a padlock. Also a bag liner. I've never had any theft problems. After all what is a dishonest baggage handler going to go for...expensive looking luggage or some backpackers pack?
As for the security of carrying on... If you fly a leg in a small regional jet you may be required to gate check your bag. They are returned in the jetway. I was at the gate once and as the passengers were disembarking one passenger stole someone's bag - he apparently just picked it up as he walked past. It would be a low-risk snatch, if caught he would just claim it looked like his.
I have always checked my bag, and will continue to do so. It is outside the carry-on dimensions for most airlines, and I carry things that are not permitted as carry-on. Sure if it is too big to carry as luggage, ie over 32 kg, I would agree with you that probably is a bit heavy!! Other than the issue of linear dimensions, I face a 7kg carry-on weight limit for most flights getting out of my home town. I haven't been down to that weight for any of my pilgrimage walks, nor am I tempted to try by doing any more weight reduction than I already do.
This comment puts you in the same category as all those of average size or under who loudly proclaim that no-one needs to carry anything larger than a 35 li pack. They clearly don't understand the relationship between body size and clothing dimensions that make this impossible for those of us who are taller
So I read it again. Agree, sometimes people need to check stuff in.I have always checked my bag, and will continue to do so. It is outside the carry-on dimensions for most airlines, and I carry things that are not permitted as carry-on. Sure if it is too big to carry as luggage, ie over 32 kg, I would agree with you that probably is a bit heavy!! Other than the issue of linear dimensions, I face a 7kg carry-on weight limit for most flights getting out of my home town. I haven't been down to that weight for any of my pilgrimage walks, nor am I tempted to try by doing any more weight reduction than I already do.
This comment puts you in the same category as all those of average size or under who loudly proclaim that no-one needs to carry anything larger than a 35 li pack. They clearly don't understand the relationship between body size and clothing dimensions that make this impossible for those of us who are taller and heavier. This is aside from age and some associated medical conditions requiring additional equipment and medications. Although I guess I could leave my CPAP at home and return to being the loudest snorer in a dormitory.
I think one thing I have learned from this thread is that not all carry ons are equal. Some are allowed much larger ones than others so I should rethink whether it is possible to carry on a backpack no matter what size.Personally, I never check my bag. I carry it on. I've seen too many pilgrims end up in Madrid minus their packs and have to re-stock everything before walking. One fellow in my group didn't get his pack until 2 weeks after returning home.
Statements like these are really annoying.And if your bag is too big to carry on an airplane, then well it’s too big to carry anyway.
Not available to those in rural areas, but certainly a contender!No one has mentioned the tried and true IKEA blue zip bag. It’s so light you can tuck it in your pack and is so sturdy. Fits poles and pack.View attachment 121188
They are available online for me and of course Amazon has them but they cost more.Not available to those in rural areas, but certainly a contender!
Palma, did you send your packs ahead from the Airport Correo? And was it as hassle-free as the Pamplona Correo? I have a tight connection in MAD and wondering if I should just wait until I get to Pamplona.In our 3 previous and current Camino we have always checked our packs in the way suggested by @kirkie and @BookGirl305 describe. We put both packs in a large wheelable duffel with poles. Put a TSA approved lock on it and wrap the whole thing Saran Wrap. Once we get to our destination we put the duffel in a box at the post office and mail it forward. In our case we send it forward to Burgos where we will be Hospitaleros when we finish our Camino. We do however fly direct from JFK to Madrid.
Ouch.Statements like these are really annoying.
BS, and absolutely not true, so please everyone saying this get off your high horses stop the snarky comments. Just answer the question and hold off on the editorial comments.
My pack is too big to check, but not too big to carry. I pack minimally but have circumstances (that don't need explanation) preventing ultra-light or compact packing. Not all of us have the latest ultra light clothes and equipment. And if so it's no one else's business to pass judgement.
You'd be welcome in my dorm, Doug, it would make me feel at home. Almost 50 years with a partner whose glorious tones could rock the walls of Jericho. Not always, but combine a good meal and a bottle of red wine ....Although I guess I could leave my CPAP at home and return to being the loudest snorer in a dormitory.
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