Air travel iwith a tripod question.

I am leaving for TX in a few days and was wondering if anyone has brought a tripod as a carryon lately. My tripod has a sleeve and strap to carry it but I don't know if they would consider it a weapon. I can check it but will have to take a larger suitcase if I do that. So I am trying to avoid that.

Thanks.

Shouldn't be a problem - I often take mine as a carry-on in it's carrycase, padded well in a towel, and head removed and in suitcase.
Have fun!
Sandy

I think you'll probably be okay, but it ultimately comes down the security personnel you're dealing with. I've seen my share of tripods on board and have been able to bring mine when I haven't checked it, but I still hear the occasional story about particular TSA agents who are a bit more uptight about them.

Max

I've carried my camera backpack with the tripod strapped on all over the country and to Australia and New Zealand and never had a question asked. The only time there was a question was getting on a regional jet when I had removed the tripod so that everything would fit in the overhead bin. The stewardess gave me a hard time for carrying on 2 items plus my briefcase. I just strapped the tripod back on until I got to my seat. It fits in easily with the tripod beside the pack, just not with it on the back.

I've got the Manfrotto 4 section legs that compress to a fairly short length. With the head off the tripod, I can get both in most luggage that I check. I figure no one will go to the trouble of stealing something that odd looking. I've not had a problem that way. I am careful to pack it in the middle of my clothing to pad it as best I can.

Won't be any problem. I've carried mine onto many planes on many airlines.

In Europe everytime I tried it was a huge problem. Now I just never even try to have it with me :(