How to Bring Your Stand-Up Paddleboard on an Airplane

Paddle Wherever You Travel

Save money and enjoy paddling while you travel by bringing your stand-up paddleboard (SUP) along with you on the airplane.

While you may be used to packing your SUP into your car, it can be just as easy to take it along on your next flight. Plus, you could save a hefty $20/hour or $100/day* in rental fees at your destination by bringing your own board for your adventures.

(*Average prices not exact amounts)

Here's how to make it happen and keep things stress-free:

1. Buy a travel-friendly board

Stand-up paddleboards come in two main categories: hard-sided and inflatable. One of the biggest “pros” of inflatable stand-up paddleboards (iSUPs) is how compact they are, which makes them easy to store and ideal for travel.

Hydro-Force™ inflatable SUPs have an innovative FortiFiber™ internal structure that creates a rigid and sturdy, yet lightweight and portable board. This means your board has the strength to withstand your weight and the elements, but it also packs nicely into its included backpack to take your paddling on-the-go. Take a closer look at some Hydro-Force boards here. 

2. Get a sturdy carry bag for your stand-up paddleboard (if your iSUP doesn’t already come with one)

Not all SUPs are created equal, and neither are their carry bags. Make sure your bag can be zipped or fastened tightly with all of your items inside. But remember, your bag could go through inspection, so don’t get overzealous with bag wrapping until right before you toss it onto the baggage belt.

All Hydro-Force™ iSUPs come with their own carry bag ranging from our more basic drawstring carry bags to the deluxe and compact zippered backpacks.

The size and the weight of the bag is one of the most important factors when it comes to air travel, which brings us to our next tip.

3. Check with your airline before you get to the airport about bag regulations (and costs!)

It’s very common for sports and outdoor enthusiasts to travel with their gear, like golfers bringing their clubs or cyclists bringing their bikes on location. SUPs are no different.

Most major airlines have policies listed on their websites with bag dimensions and weight limits. Some airlines even allow you to substitute your oversized item for your standard checked bag (depending on the size of the bag and weight of the item).

When looking online, search your airline’s name and “special items and sports equipment,” which will populate a list of approved items and instructions for how to pack your SUP properly before your flight.

If your airline doesn’t list “stand-up paddleboards” specifically, look for another comparable item like a kayak or a surfboard and follow the instructions listed. When in doubt, call the airline and ask the questions. There may also be a fee if it is counted as an extra bag, so it’s best to find out in advance and avoid any surprises at the airport.

Bonus Tip: Check with your hotel for luggage storage options or even early luggage drop-off times in case you arrive earlier than your hotel’s check-in time.

4. Prep your board/bag for travel

Checked bags are often tossed around, especially if they aren’t marked “fragile,” so make sure to pack your board, gear and accessories as snugly as possible. Remove any fins and store them in your checked bag as an extra precaution. Next, fold/roll your iSUP as tight as you can before transferring it to your carry bag.

To fill in extra space, but not add too much additional weight, try packing clothes or a towel in the gaps of your bag. If your pump is electric and powered with batteries, remove the batteries and store them in your carry-on, while you pack the pump into your larger iSUP bag.

If there are adjustable straps on the outside of your carry bag, pull them as tight as possible to ensure your items and board aren’t damaged mid-flight.

The last step you could take (mentioned briefly above) is using luggage wrap to further secure your items. You can buy wrap online or some airports even offer luggage wrapping services but be aware that your bag could potentially be searched or inspected either to or from your destination.

Prep Before You Travel  

The moral of the story when traveling with your SUP is that preparation is what matters most! Make your first airplane travel experience a breeze with your SUP and keep these tips in mind as you take your paddle explorations to the next level and explore even more in our beautiful world.

Discover the Best Board to Paddle on Your Travels!