wrapping backpack for air travel.

[PIER-GIORGIO BASSI]

Last night, I think I came up with a possible solution for the dilemma as to how to ship your large backpack for air travel. I had debated whether to put it in a duffel bag or even in a large luggage which left disposal issues once at your destination. I was looking for something else in my closet and I saw a plastic men's suit bag with a zipper. I said bingo! Wrapped it around my pack and it fits perfectly. It is lightweight and easily disposed.
The only possible issue I see is the possible puncture by the walking sticks in travel. I can even stick an address label through the top opening.

 

[trecile]

Last night, I think I came up with a possible solution for the dilemma as to how to ship your large backpack for air travel. I had debated whether to put it in a duffel bag or even in a large luggage which left disposal issues once at your destination. I was looking for something else in my closet and I saw a plastic men's suit bag with a zipper. I said bingo! Wrapped it around my pack and it fits perfectly. It is lightweight and easily disposed.
The only possible issue I see is the possible puncture by the walking sticks in travel. I can even stick an address label through the top opening.

This Ikea Frakta zippered storage bag might be sturdier, and doesn't cost much. Plus it already has handles. If you don't live near an Ikea, I have seen them on ebay and Amazon - but for more money.

 

[Peter Fransiscus]

Last night, I think I came up with a possible solution for the dilemma as to how to ship your large backpack for air travel. I had debated whether to put it in a duffel bag or even in a large luggage which left disposal issues once at your destination. I was looking for something else in my closet and I saw a plastic men's suit bag with a zipper. I said bingo! Wrapped it around my pack and it fits perfectly. It is lightweight and easily disposed.
The only possible issue I see is the possible puncture by the walking sticks in travel. I can even stick an address label through the top opening.

This Ikea Frakta zippered storage bag might be sturdier, and doesn't cost much. Plus it already has handles. If you don't live near an Ikea, I have seen them on ebay and Amazon - but for more money.

I never get anything around my backpack. Drop it off as it is, never had any problems.
Wish you both well, Peter.

 

[Waka]

When I travelled I had my backpack shrink wrapped, I have to say it was quite expensive doing this both ways. Now I know about the Ikea bag I'll do it that way the next time.

 

[jerbear]

I make a box from cardboard. Ship it in the planes belly. Get to airport retrieve box , open dawn backpack.....I am off... do the same for my departure.

 

[Ahhhs]

I just put on my pack's rain cover. No extra cost or bulky wrap. Easy.

 

[alipilgrim]

Why not stick a wine cork on the end of each walking pole for the flight to prevent any punctures? Easy enough to replace in Santiago for the flight home!

 

[EL Guapo]

If you are shipping your pack as luggage,you may try a glad bag trash bag with a draw string. It is puncture proof and the tsa won't have to cut it open when they inspect it. It also gives you the Camino merit badge for creativity.

 

[johnnymac]

I am using a clear mattress cover fastened with gaffer tape. I've seen packs arrive with ripped straps and then it's a headache to get it sorted out prior to setting out. Baggage handlers don't have time to be gentle with your luggage. They treat them like football players.
Buen Camino
John Mac -- Australia

 

[vicky mc]

Last night, I think I came up with a possible solution for the dilemma as to how to ship your large backpack for air travel. I had debated whether to put it in a duffel bag or even in a large luggage which left disposal issues once at your destination. I was looking for something else in my closet and I saw a plastic men's suit bag with a zipper. I said bingo! Wrapped it around my pack and it fits perfectly. It is lightweight and easily disposed.
The only possible issue I see is the possible puncture by the walking sticks in travel. I can even stick an address label through the top opening.

I'm going to wrap a roll of clingfilm around mine but will be taking boots clothes and sleeping bag in as hand luggage in an apple 'duffle' bag. That way if my pack gets 'lost' at least I still have my boots and clothes etc. Buen Camino

 

[PIER-GIORGIO BASSI]

I never get anything around my backpack. Drop it off as it is, never had any problems.
Wish you both well, Peter.

Does it not get tangled in baggage handling? Airline attendants are Ok with it being shipped that way? I must say I am surprised.

 

[C clearly]

Does it not get tangled in baggage handling? Airline attendants are Ok with it being shipped that way? I must say I am surprised.

I never use anything either and see many backpacks without special protection. Just tighten all the straps and tie up loose ones. Use some duct tape if you want.

 

[jburr3708]

I get a bag for clothes washing at the Dollar General Store here in USA and my backpack fits in it perfectly. It has a drawstring on the top which I tie around the backpack handle. It is made of polyester and strong enough to survive a one way trip as checked luggage. It weighs literately nothing and costs USD 1.00. I buy 2 and use one for outbound with the other one at the bottom of my backpack for the return. No hassle and very cheap. I returned from the Camino yesterday and everything was fine. I have used this now for three Caminos and never had a problem

 

[Rupe]

I am using a clear mattress cover fastened with gaffer tape. I've seen packs arrive with ripped straps and then it's a headache to get it sorted out prior to setting out. Baggage handlers don't have time to be gentle with your luggage. They treat them like football players.
Buen Camino
John Mac -- Australia

What about not checking it...that is if you don't have walking sticks?

 

[PIER-GIORGIO BASSI]

I am back from the Camino. It turns out I did not have to do anything. The pack was shipped as is; no wrapping. Just tied the loose straps.