Air Travel with a GG Mariposa

You should be OK as that stay is not longer than 22″ which is the limit.  Measure it to be sure.

I’ve taken mine in numerous airlines, no problems yet.

Ok, appreciate the input.

If you go frame-less and don’t pack it crazy full, you can squeeze it into smaller “test boxes.” TSA isn’t so much the problem as gate crews on a full international flight trying to reduce overhead luggage.. You can get all the way to the gate and have the crew spoil your carry-on plans. Maximum weight and size varies by airline, so study up. Domestic flights seem looser on the sizes.

If you can gate check an offending bag so they have it waiting for you at the gate when you get off, it is less of a concern. We have a trip coming up with just an hour leeway between connecting flights and I want all my stuff in the cabin in case the times get too close.

Have a backup plan to be ready to immediately empty your more fragile and precious gear (cameras, tablet, etc) into a small day pack or other small carry-on if you have to check the big bag. I usually have one maximum size carry on plus an allowed “personal bag” anyway. If weight is close, put the dense stuff like electronics in the personal bag. When I have had my big bag weighed to check compliance, no one has wanted to weigh the 15 liter pack I used as a “personal bag” (whew).

I have a 1 hour transfer window. I would love to take the Mariposa as the carry on with a tent, sleeping bag, etc…The first night we are planning to stay in a campground so as long as I can sleep I should have my gear by the time we go backpacking. Just wasn’t sure about stay.

You could UPS it to a friend in the area or USPS to yourself, General Delivery.

Absolutely thought about sending it to a friend in Bozeman.

I work for an airline. I doubt you will see an issue. You can take it into the airport and ask.

John, thanks. I live an hour from my airport. So I won’t make it before my trip.

Outbound, i have things which are verbotten in carryon, so check full pack /food in thrift duffel.   Carry on $$$ gear in small duffel. Throw these duffel away, leave at hostel, etc

Homebound, i put stay, poles, most gear in small 22″duffel and check, carry on frameless pack with $$$ gear. Get duffel at thrift/walmart. Use for next outbound trip.

I end up on very small regional planes, 3 seats across. Where most carryon have to be checked at gate.  Never had issue this way.  Dont ever want surprises personally.  Depends on size planes though.