Tripod w/ Spiked Feet and Air Travel?

[justsomedude]

Has anyone ever run into issues traveling with spiked feet on a tripod as a carry-on item?  I just got some spiked feet for my Manfrotto while visiting family on holiday, and I'm worried TSA will confiscate them.  I'm considering shipping them back home so I don't get forced into throwing them away at the airport.

Any advice/experience on this matter?  Thanks!

[handsomerob]

Check them in with your luggage and install them upon arrival?

Leaving them on the tripod might not be a good idea, especially during holidays when security checks are a lot more annoying...

[Mt Spokane Photography]

As long as its in a tripod bag and checked, there should be no problem.

[Flake]

This is the problem with Manfrotto tripods - everything which should be standard is an extra cost option.  On other tripods there are removable rubber feet covering the spikes should you need them.  Remember to keep the original rubber feet for your tripod, they are quite expensive should you need to replace them, and the advice to pack the spikes in the checked in baggage is good advice.

[7enderbender]

I am in the process of researching carry-on solutions and different airline carriers for a trip in July where I'll have to bring a good chunk of gear. Difficult subject I find. I came across several statements in various places that tripods and monopods are a big no-no as a carry-on; spikes or no spikes. Check with TSA (or local equivalent) and the respective carrier. You probably have to check it.

[neuroanatomist]

TSA doesn't have published guidance on tripods or monopods.  FWIW, I've carried both on US domestic flights (in a Pelican Storm im2500 with camera/lenses, clothes, and toiletries.

[7enderbender]

Looks like this varies with interpretation of unspecific rules ("club-like item") and by region. I wouldn't try this or at least call the airline and then confirm at check-in. You certainly don't want the tripod thrown away at the security gate. Or worse.

[stessel tank]

Coming back in October this year at Tokyo Narita airport only problem i had was the lenght of my tripod a security guard measured it and said it was to long to take on board so i screwed the head off they measured it again it's OK know, did not worry about spiked feet at all

[Ryusui]

FWIW - the TSA official iPhone app says tripods and monopods are okay as check or carry-on items.  Nothing is said about spiked feet.
If you'd like extra assurances, I'd call them: 1-866-289-9673

[TexPhoto]

You probably would not have trouble if they are attached to the tripod. Better if covered by something.

But All airports have post offices, and an envelope with some stamps does not add much to a travel kit.  I've saved my pocket knife once that way, and met a few ladies whose clippers or cigarette lighter needed rescue as well.

[fotoray]

I've always packed my tripod inside my checked luggage.   Adds 4-5 lbs to luggage weight, but completely avoids any security check issues beyond those your checked luggage is always subject to.  This way spiked feet don't become an issue.  Just easier this way, I think! 

[wickidwombat]

Coming back in October this year at Tokyo Narita airport only problem i had was the lenght of my tripod a security guard measured it and said it was to long to take on board so i screwed the head off they measured it again it's OK know, did not worry about spiked feet at all

do you remember what the length threshold was? was it the tripod itself or the bag included

[Canon Rumors]

I travel with a duffle bag over a suitcase and the tripod always gets checked. Seems like a horribly awkward item to bring on an airplane. Though, I also don't want them to pay any attention to my Kiboko that is usually 15lbs overweight for carry-on.

As for your question, I am sure it would be a matter of the person you run into at the airport.


CR

[stessel tank]

Coming back in October this year at Tokyo Narita airport only problem i had was the lenght of my tripod a security guard measured it and said it was to long to take on board so i screwed the head off they measured it again it's OK know, did not worry about spiked feet at all

do you remember what the length threshold was? was it the tripod itself or the bag included

no idea of lenghts as they were taking japanese to each other, i did have it in a tripod bag which after xray they removed and only measured the tripod itself,the bag was longer then the tripod

[niccyboy]

I've carried both a monopod and a tripod on board on an aircraft a number of times... (In Australia, SE Asia and Europe).. I've never had an issue, i assume if you took it without cameras you would seem a bit suspicious haha. But i personally havent had any problems.

I tend to agree with CR guy though when he says he checks it in... on a recent Indian project I had to travel with a couple of tripods, i simple got a big role of bubblewrap and wrapped it around it, wrapped gaffa around that, and put a fragile sticker on it. Simple, cheap and means your don't have to squeeze it into your suitcases/bags.

Just make sure you insure it if it's a pricey one