Can You Travel with Your Skydiving Gear?

Key Takeaways
Traveling with your skydiving gear is easy when you know what to expect. Skydivers can fly with parachutes both as carry-ons and checked luggage, as long as they follow CATSA guidelines. Packing carefully, choosing a quality gear bag, and staying calm during security inspections are key to avoiding problems. Arrive early, keep the proper documentation handy, and be ready to assist CATSA if needed. Whether you carry it on or check it, inspect your rig after every flight to ensure it’s safe to jump.

Headed to a boogie that requires a commercial flight? Traveling with your skydiving gear can feel nerve-wracking the first time. You may have heard horror stories about airport security opening containers or popping reserves. The truth is, Canadian skydivers travel with rigs every single day, both domestically and internationally, without any issues at all. The key is to prepare ahead of time, know your rights, and communicate clearly.

Bringing your own parachute rig makes your skydiving experience away from home more comfortable and consistent. You’re already familiar with your setup, and you don’t have to rely on borrowed or rental gear. While traveling with a parachute might sound complicated, a bit of preparation can make the entire process smooth and stress-free. Below we will discuss how to travel with a skydiving rig, starting with how to pack for your trip.

Choosing the Right Skydiving Gear Bag

A well-designed skydiving gear bag makes all the difference in protecting your equipment and simplifying travel. Look for one that’s durable, weather-resistant, and made specifically for skydiving gear. Padding and reinforced stitching are essential to keep your rig safe from bumps, scrapes, and moisture. Wheels are a big plus if you’ll be navigating large airports or walking long distances.

Some gear bags come with built-in padded helmet pockets, while others include multiple compartments for things like your jumpsuit, altimeter, gloves, and logbook. 

If you prefer something lighter, a rigsleeve can work for short trips. You can even wear your rig like a backpack, but remember, a rigsleeve offers minimal protection from impact or liquids. It can also be uncomfortable for longer hauls, so weigh your options carefully.

Protecting Your Helmet

Your helmet lens and shell can easily get scratched or scuffed during travel, so take precautions before you pack. A hard-shell helmet case is ideal, but if you don’t have one (or don’t have the extra room), wrap your helmet in a soft shirt or microfiber cloth and fill the inside with clothing or small soft items to help it hold its shape and utilize the extra space. Avoid packing anything that could press against or rub on the visor. Some jumpers even slide their helmets into drawstring bags before packing for an added layer of protection.

Traveling with Your Parachute: Carry-On or Check It?

You have two main options when flying with skydiving gear: carry it on the plane or check it as luggage. If you’re bringing your full setup – rig, jumpsuit, helmet, and accessories – you may need more than one bag.

Carry-On

Many jumpers prefer to carry their rigs on the plane with them. Keeping your gear with you ensures it isn’t lost, delayed, or mishandled by baggage staff. This option gives peace of mind since you always know where it is and how it’s being handled. 

If you go this route, keep in mind that carry-on luggage size restrictions vary, so double-check the airline’s limits before you fly. Also, note that carrying on your rig may make it slightly more likely that CATSA (Canadian Air Transport Security Authority) will want to do a search.

Checked Bag

If your gear doesn’t fit as a carry-on, or you’d rather not deal with it through security, you can check it. This definitely makes traveling a bit more hassle-free, though some people are understandably nervous about checking their gear. While it’s unlikely to get lost, it’s still a possibility. 

If you check your rig:

• Include your contact information inside the bag.
• Add a printed copy of CATSA’s “Skydiving Rigs with and without Automatic Activation Devices” policy inside.
• Consider placing an AirTag or similar tracker inside the D bag to monitor it in transit.

Here’s what to keep in mind if you decide to check your parachute gear:

• CATSA officers are not allowed to open or handle your parachute unless you are present.
• If security officers cannot locate you when an inspection is needed, your gear will not be loaded onto the aircraft.
• Inspections typically happen shortly after check-in, so:
  • Stay near the counter for a short time.
  • Listen for your name to be paged in case CATSA calls for your assistance.

Things to Consider Before You Travel

Every dropzone and country has its own set of rules and requirements, so it’s important to do a little research before your trip. For example, not all locations accept Solo Certificates, and repack cycles can vary between countries. If you’re traveling from the U.S. to Canada, you’ll need to follow the Canadian repack schedule. Likewise, if you’re traveling from Canada to the U.S., your gear must be packed by an FAA-certified rigger; don’t worry, we have plenty here to help if needed! 

Before heading to the airport, double-check that your reserve seal is intact and your documentation is current to avoid any unexpected issues upon arrival. If you’re unsure about the rules at your destination, give the dropzone a call. They can confirm what’s accepted locally and help make sure you’re travel-ready.

What To Expect at CATSA

Will CATSA let you bring a parachute? Yes! CATSA allows skydiving rigs in both carry-on and checked baggage. That said, inspections can happen, especially if you’re flying through smaller airports or ones less familiar with skydiving equipment. Of course, screening is non-negotiable if the X-ray or explosive trace detection system flags your gear for review.

To make things smoother:

• Arrive 30-45 minutes earlier than usual.
• Let the airline or screening officer know that you’re traveling with a sport parachute.
• Carry copies of:
  • CATSA’s parachute policy page.
  • Your AAD’s X-ray card (CYPRES, Vigil, or M2).
  • Your rigger’s contact information.

If a manual inspection is required:

• You must be present and allowed to assist.
• Screeners are not permitted to pull handles, force containers, or tamper with the system.
• Always remain calm and polite – clear communication helps the process go faster.

To reduce the risk of false alarms:

• Avoid handling materials like fertilizer, fireworks, or firearms before packing.
• Even some hand lotions or lubricants can trigger explosive detection systems.

If CATSA staff request to open your reserve:

• Ask to speak with a screening supervisor.
• Explain that your reserve can only be opened and repacked by a certified rigger.

If CATSA does open your reserve, carefully daisy-chain your lines, place it in a clean bag, and have it inspected and repacked by a certified rigger before jumping again. You are not allowed to pack your own reserve parachute unless you have the proper qualifications. Being mentally prepared for this unlikely scenario will help you stay calm if it ever happens.

Storing Your Parachute on the Plane

If you’re carrying your rig on board, place it in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Make sure it’s secured and protected from spills or heavy luggage. Double-check that your emergency handles are covered and won’t get snagged. If a flight attendant asks about it, explain that it’s a sport parachute, it’s not hazardous or pressurized.

After You Land

Before jumping, thoroughly inspect your rig. 

• Confirm that the reserve seal is intact.
• Check your handles, flaps, and closing pins.
• Look for moisture, dirt or signs of mishandling.

If you suspect your gear was opened or mishandled, find a local rigger before making your next jump.

Time to Travel!

Traveling with your skydiving equipment doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re headed to a boogie across the country or traveling internationally, preparation and patience are key. Plan ahead, pack smart, stay calm, and be sure to check the regulations of your destination country when applicable. With the right approach, you’ll breeze through security and be ready to jump the moment you arrive.

Have more questions? Get in touch! We’re here to help. Blue skies!