(and tricks to get your boat on the plane)
With so many kayakers traveling, worrying about bringing their kayaks, and then having problems checking their kayaks as baggage, heres a little bit of information to give us boaters a fighting chance. (Remember: The dumb guy pays.)
The first thing that you need to know is that all of the airlines computer system's are absolutely huge. Some people know the system, while some people have no clue. The people without a clue, are probably some of the best people to check you in. I would say that it takes the average airline employee one year to become a fairly knowledgeable check in agent, mostly due to the amount of information that they need to know. Usually the older people at the counter are the ones with many years with the company. (remember the airlines used to be a career, and these guys have 20 and 30 years seniority) These people are the ones that have seen it all, have gone through pay cut after pay cut, and are calused to pleading, begging, and any other techniques that you might try. (If you work for an airline: I am generalizing so don't get offended.)
Check in with a younger employee if you have a choice, then tell them the rules if they don't know, or if they are going to get a supervisor or one of their Co-employees. The more people involved, the less you will be able to fudge on the rules.
Go in with the attitude that you will be paying for your oversize bag. (kayak)
Know who you are flying with, and the rules of that carrier. So you buy your tickets on Delta.com, but when you get to the airport they tell you that you are flying with horizon. In todays airline industry, it is common for airlines to book tickets on other airlines. If you don't know, ask. If you do it yourself, make sure you pay attention to who the flight is "operated by". This is who you will be traveling with.
Traveling International: The stuff posted here applies to general policy. If you are using multiple carriers you may be charged for each individual carriers excess baggage. ex. Delta Salt Lake to Atlanta $100.00 then United Atlanta to Santiago $300.00 = $400.00 one way.
Know your story. If you have a kayak to check, fine. But if you have a kayak... no wait thats too much money, I mean its a surfboard. Not good. (Remember: The dumb guy pays.)
Below are a list of 4 major airlines that I have checked. Each airlines rules are quoted exactly. The information is valid as of December of 05
Because its tough enough just getting your boat to the water.
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