Can You Bring A Skateboard On A Plane? – That Varies!

Skateboarding is easily one of the most fun and simple ways of traveling, especially in foreign countries! It is much easier to pick up a skateboard, take it on your trip, and skate from destination to destination than using other modes of transportation.

If you’re like us, you know how time-consuming and frustrating it can be to try and organize hiring a car in another country, and bikes are too large to take with you in some instances.

But the question remains, can you take your skateboard on the plane? The last thing you want to do is turn up to the airport, ready for your holiday, only to have your skateboard confiscated before you set off!

Ultimately, the answer to this question varies from airline to airline. We will look at how you can beat the system and take your favorite board with you on all your adventures.

How to Beat The Airlines

As stated, while some airlines certainly make it tricky for you to take a skateboard on the plane, there are ways that you can work around that and beat them at their own game.

Dismantle Your Skateboard

Firstly, if an airline flat out refuses to accept skateboards, that doesn’t have to be the end of the road! No airline has any rules surrounding skateboarding parts, so you should fly through your checks in no time! Consider dismantling your skateboard into parts and packing it into your luggage.

The Smaller, The Better

Many airlines feel uncomfortable allowing skateboards on the plane because they do not understand them, making them uneasy. One of the main issues is the sheer size of certain skateboards.

You will struggle to get a longboard onto a plane! Some airlines even have a maximum size in their standard carry-on size restrictions.

However, the smaller boards are much less intimidating and give you more chance of getting past security and onto the plane.

Pack the board for Carry-On Luggage

One of the simplest ways to get your skateboard onto the plane is to pack it in your carry-on.

If staff see that you have it packed away and do not intend on having it out, it will reassure them that you are simply taking it from one destination to another and will be more likely to let you pass.

Get Early To The Airport

If you have any doubts about whether you can get your skateboard onto the plane, give yourself a bit more time at the airport. This tactic will provide you with time to enquire about your board and have a detailed conversation with the staff about it.

This option gives you much more chance of them understanding the situation and allowing you to bring your skateboard with you.

Some airlines offer free seating for unassigned seats after they call the boarding groups.

This gives you the opportunity to keep the deck in a safe place if you are lucky. You need to reach the airport early to grab this opportunity.

But other airlines call by row and you can’t do this if you are in the back part of the plane.

Call The Airline to Learn About Their Regulations

Another way to check in advance that doesn’t include getting to the airport early is to call the airline in advance and inquire about their regulations.

This tactic could save you plenty of money booking and then canceling flights.

Can You Fly to Another Continent with Your Skateboard?

United States

If you start your journey in the US and fly to another US destination, there should be no issue getting your skateboard past security on domestic airlines. You should also be able to carry it as part of your carry-on bag.

Europe

However, in Europe, the carry-on rules are a bit different. In France and the UK, you won’t get your skateboard through the security checkpoints, despite many European airlines allowing skateboards as part of checked luggage.

With that in mind, it is worth checking in advance to make sure you don’t have a nasty surprise at the airport. Check the standard baggage policies of your chosen airline to see if there are baggage fees included.

Asia

There is no unified approach to security in Asian countries, although some of the larger airports do not prevent you from bringing skateboards on planes.

As with any trips to Europe, check with your chosen airlines in advance to learn their policies on bringing skateboards on the plane.

Australia

You cannot bring your skateboard as a carry-on for any flights into Australia as with any sports equipment or skating equipment. You can pack it in your luggage, though, so options are available to you.

Africa

There are no restrictions on bringing a skateboard on the plane in Africa, so there should be no issues with any trips to this continent.

Bags for Your Skateboard

If you select an airline that allows you to bring your skateboard on the flight with you, as long as it is packed away, then the next thing you need to do is select a bag for your skateboard.

Skate Bag

The most obvious choice would be a skate bag. These bags are specifically designed for carrying skateboards, so you know this is an easy option that will suit your needs.

Snowboard Backpack

Another option available to you is a snowboard backpack. While not explicitly designed for a skateboard, the snowboard backpack is an equally great choice, and the additional space will also provide you with luggage space for other items.

Longboard Backpack

Similar to the snowboard backpack option, a longboard backpack will also offer you a great solution that provides storage space for other items you need for your trip.

Which Airlines Can You Carry Your Skateboard On?

Can You Take An Electric Skateboard On A Plane?

Battery Size Matters

The rules for battery sizes vary between airlines and you need to read their policies to find out the exact information.

Some are fine with batteries up to 160wH while others only let you carry 99wH batteries or smaller.

However, some also require you to detach the battery. You can get an electric skateboard with a detachable battery.

Contact the Airline First

Some airlines fail to post a clear policy on their site. A direct call is your best option for clarification.

Some are fine if you detach the battery before flight but you want to inform them about the lithium battery to avoid any possibility of hassles when onboard.

You can send an email to the airline and keep a print copy of their response as a proof. The airport staff can’t give you any trouble if they see the written document from the airline authority.

Carry the Battery Onboard

Carry the detached battery onboard after you check the board at the counter. You want to do this even if the airline allows you to carry-on the whole board.

Some airlines may allow some travellers to bring in electric skateboards with detached batteries but those cases may involve individual judgement of employees.

Final Thoughts

In summary, there are ways that you can get your skateboard to your desired destination. In some instances, this is incredibly simple and easy, whereas, in other cases, this can be a little trickier.

The critical thing to do is check with your chosen airline before purchasing any flights to ensure you do not get disappointed at the last minute.

There you have it! All the information you need for a successful trip, with your trusty skateboard by your side!