One of the big selling points of inflatable dinghy boats is that they’re easy to travel with. Most people try to use their inflatable dinghy boats in local waters and while on vacation. If you’re heading to the Caribbean to see family or friends, for instance, you will most likely need to catch a flight to get there. While you’re in the area, you might have opportunities to use your boat, so why not bring it with you? Keep reading to learn how to bring your inflatable dinghy boat on a flight.
Know Your Boat’s Weight
Before you start packing up your boat for your flight, you need to know its weight. The weight of your dinghy will determine whether it’s a carry-on, checked, or special baggage. Place your boat in the container you will use to transport it and weigh the entire assembly before you leave for the airport. You will need to know the total weight to determine how the boat will accompany you.
There are three accompaniment options: carry-on, checked, and special. You may need to contact your airline ahead of time to arrange for special baggage since that classification is for baggage that weighs more than 50 pounds.
Pack Your Boat In Its Carry Bag
As mentioned above, you should weigh your bag in the container it will stay in during the flight. While you can use any container you want, most inflatable dinghy boats come with a storage or carrying bag. An included bag is one of the things to consider before buying an inflatable dinghy boat since the bag makes storage and travel more convenient.
Financially Prepare for Checked or Special Baggage Fees
Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll need to weigh your boat again. You can tell the airline staff about the weight you measured at home, but most airlines will want to confirm that weight on their scale. After they confirm the weight, they will tell you whether it’s best to make it a carry-on, checked, or special baggage. Most airlines regulate carry-on as less than 35 pounds and checked as between 35 and 50 pounds. Special baggage typically weighs more than 50 pounds.
Always bring extra cash or have enough money on your card to pay for checked or special baggage if necessary. Any boating accessories, such as paddles, automatically count as checked or special baggage, so you should prepare to pay the checked or special fees associated with these items as well.
Knowing how to bring your inflatable dinghy boat on a flight can set you up for a successful vacation. Instead of worrying about boat rentals, you can enjoy time with family and friends and get on the water whenever you please.