Flying with Baseball Equipment
As a baseball mom, you know how important it is for your child to have their own equipment. And if you’re traveling for a tournament or game, taking that equipment with you is a must. But let’s face it, flying with baseball equipment can be a hassle. From packing to carrying, there are a lot of things to consider. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on flying with baseball equipment so you can arrive at your tournament destination with all equipment safe and accounted for.
- Buy the right luggage
The first step in traveling with baseball equipment is to get a good equipment bag. Not only will it keep everything organized and in one place, but it will also protect your equipment from damage. There are a lot of different types of bags available, from wheeled bags to backpacks. Consider what will work best for you and your child’s needs.
A great carry on option is the DeMarini Voodoo OG Baseball Backpack. This bag is more compact than a Boombah bag, but still has plenty of storage inside so your ballplayer can carry on their helmet, gloves, and even cleats. Most airlines restrict carry on luggage size to 22″ by 14″, and this backpack is exactly those dimensions. However, be sure to check with your Airline’s carry on luggage size limits.
Baseball bats must be ‘checked’ in your airplane’s lower storage compartments. For checked baggage, hard sided luggage can be extremely expensive. A more cost effective alternative is a large upright rolling duffel bag like this 30 inch Multi Pocket Upright Rolling Duffel that should be able to fit most baseball bats. Just be sure to pack the baseball bat in the center of the bag, padded with rolled up sweatshirts, socks, t-shirts, or even specialty items like neoprene bat sleeves.
Catcher’s Gear will need to be checked, due to the size. For catcher’s gear, we recommend the Boombah Brute Rolling Bag. It is made with a high quality rip resistant fabric that will keep catcher’s gear protected no matter how the baggage handlers ‘handle’ the bag.
Product recommendations:
DeMarini Voodoo OG Baseball Backpack
Travelers Club XPedition 30 Inch Multi Pocket Upright Rolling Duffel Bag
Boombah Brute Rolling Catchers Gear Bag
- Pack Smart
When packing your equipment bag, make sure to pack smart. Start by packing the most crucial items first, like gloves, bats, and helmets. Then, add in other essentials like cleats, socks, and hats. It’s important to keep everything organized by keeping similar items together. You can use small storage bags or dividers to help keep everything in its place.
One of my favorite travel tips is to store complete outfits (socks, underwear, shorts or pants, shirt) in large gallon size ziploc bags. That way you know your ballplayer has enough outfits for the trip.
Wear or carry on:
- Uniform Hat
- Team Sweatshirt
- Crocs or slides
Pack in carry on baggage:
- Baseball Glove(s)
- Batting Glove(s)
- Baseball Helmet
- Baseball Cleats
- Sunglasses
- Uniform, including protective gear (if there is space)
- Uniform pieces like belt, protective cup, chest protector, etc. (if no space in carry on baggage)
Pack in checked baggage:
- Baseball Bat
- Catcher’s Gear
- Uniform (if no space in carry on bagge)
- Clothing
- Uniform pieces like belt, protective cup, chest protector, etc. (if no space in carry on baggage)
- Check TSA and Airline Guidelines
Before heading to the airport, make sure to check with TSA and Airline specific policies about flying with baseball equipment. Each airline has different policies and fees, so it’s essential to know what to expect before you arrive at the airport. Also, keep in mind that some airlines require you to check the equipment bag as oversized baggage, so make sure to arrive early to avoid any issues.
- Use Protective Gear
Your child’s baseball equipment is valuable, and you want to make sure that it arrives at your destination safely. To help protect your gear from damage during travel, use protective gear like bat sleeves, helmet bags, and batting gloves that can be used as extra padding. Not only do these items protect your gear, but they also make it easier to transport.
Make sure to lock any bags you check! Use a TSA approved lock like this one, which come in a set of 4.
Product Recommendations:
Neoprene Bat Sleeve/Bat Protector – 2 Pack
TSA Approved Luggage Locks – 4 Pack
- Consider Shipping Your Equipment
If you have a lot of equipment or are going on a particularly long trip, consider shipping your equipment to your destination instead of taking it with you. This will help to alleviate some of the stress and burden that comes with traveling with heavy and bulky equipment.
Another alternative that our team has used in the past – have one parent from the team drive and transport all equipment!
FAQs for Flying with Baseball Equipment:
Can I bring a baseball bat on the airplane?
According to the TSA, Baseball bats MUST be in checked luggage. You cannot bring a baseball bat in carry on luggage.
What equipment can I put in my carry-on luggage?
Some baseball equipment can be brought into the cabin in carry on luggage:
- Baseball glove
- Baseball Helmet
- Baseball cleats
I also recommend packing uniforms in carry on luggage if possible. If by chance your baseball bag (in checked baggage) doesn’t make it to your destination, it’s easy to borrow a teammate’s bat.
What equipment must be checked luggage?
- Baseball bats cannot be carried onboard and must be in checked luggage
- Catcher’s gear (due to size only)
Conclusion:
Flying with baseball equipment may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By using these tips, you can make the process much easier and hassle-free. Remember to get a good equipment bag, pack smart, check with the airlines, use protective gear, and consider shipping your equipment if necessary. With a little bit of planning, you and your child can enjoy a successful and fun baseball trip without any added stress.
Traveling for Baseball Tournaments this Summer? Check out these popular posts!
Cal Ripken Myrtle Beach – Tournament Tips
Cooperstown All Star Village – Tournament Tips
Cal Ripken Experience Aberdeen Maryland – Tournament Tips
Cooperstown All Star Village – What to Pack for your Ball Player
