If you don't have one, get a case or at minimum a bag made for tripods to check it with luggage for airline travel. Most large pro photo dealers have tripod cases and bags available.

I can only speak from personal experience but I have never had a problem taking my tripod on board an airplane strapped to my camera backpack. This includes flights since 9/11. Airports that I can remember off the top of my head include: Toronto; Quebec City; Halifax; Charlottetown; NYC (La Guardia and JFK); Atlanta; Hartford; New Haven; Newark; Buffalo; Philly and a few others that don't come readily to mind.

Keep in mind that is only my personal experience. My tripod is a Manfrotto 190Pro with a 488RC2 head. When I went through Atlanta, I had 2 tripods strapped to my pack and still no problems.

Your best bet is to check with the airline(s) you're flying and TSA at the respective airports. If you have to check it, wrap it in a heavy plastic bag and stick it in a suitcase or duffel with your clothes.

I just got back from a trip to Germany and was able to bring my tripod as a carry-on. It was strapped to my camera bag and there were no problems with it going through security here in the states. On the return leg of the trip the security in Frankfurt had it go through their x-ray screener twice, but aside from that it went smoothly as well.

Just my experience... I have travelled often with my monopod and head without problem with security. At the Tucson airport the security made me go back and check it into baggage.

So I agree with the poster that recommended checking with the airline and TSA at both the departing and arriving airports.
Kate6

I've made many trips abroad. Never had any problems with a tripod strapped to my carry on camera backpack...until this past summer, returning from London Gatwick. At check-in, the agent told me it could be used as a weapon and must go with checked bagggage. After a few minutes debate and showing I had no room in my luggage, she told me to take it to the oversized baggage counter for a box. I opted to go direct through security and got it through with no issues.

Hi, I've worked for a major airline for 26 yrs now...at the airport now too. ALL tripods are permitted as carryon item, as long as fit in overhead bins on aircraft. No problems with security. But remember if you're on those smaller planes, most PRO tripods won't fit. So chekin your tripod in a large suitcase. I have back problems, so don't do much carryon, just my camera/lenses (never check those in)- so I use a larger suitcase where my clothes, tripod (diagonally) and other stuff fit. My carryons are my camera bag and/or my laptop/camera bag only. LESS is better, flights are fuller and less and less space available for carryons. ALSO since most airlines charge for checked bags now, more carryons to accomodate. So for less stress, try only 1 carryon and check the rest. Hope this help. PS...most airlines - checked bag must be under 50 lbs or additional fees apply.

Don't you love these "better late than never" posts...

I recently purchased the middle size Think Tank rolling camera case meets international carry on standards. The interior length is 18 inches. Then I went out and found a Gitzo tripod that fits inside. I now have a compact travel kit that is self contained within the case.

Unless you're shooting with a lens 300mm or longer, there's probably no reason to travel with a tripod that collapses to 30 inches.

Good tip...and better late than never!!

I agree. I think this is the most sensible thing to do. Authorhouse

I traveled with my tripod too and it was stresfull but in the end everything was ok. I love taking photos of all the amazing buildings and impressive cathedrals I see during my trips.

I always take my tripod when I go on holidays. I love to take photos of all the amazing historic sites. I`ve got great photos from the trips I was on the last few years.