detector as a carry-on or check-in when flying.

[ohiotech]

I don't know if anyone does any carry-on only type air travel, but I sure would like to know about everyone's travel experiences with either carrying-on or checking-in their detector.

I ask this because I just modified a hard shell suitcase to snuggly fit equipment, extra batteries, and some gear. I've spoken to American Airlines and the TSA, and there are no restrictions with bringing the equipment onboard, but the TSA agent can prevent you from taking anything they want during their screen.

I did the case because I didn't want to spend 50 or 100 bucks on a hard shell case that sings "Hey, I have something spiffy inside"... and I had more time than I had money at that moment.

I'll be heading to my local airport to get some feedback from the TSA there. I do this because I'm very ocd. I would hate to plan a trip to somewhere nice like Puerto Rico where I only want to bring on my detector and a backpack full of beach clothes, only to get refused.

Steve, if you read this, do you know of any offices or departments that I might need to contact before I do any detecting down there? Permits? or anything of the similar.

Ohiotech.

[EPC Guy]

I've carried my MD on-board on several occasions - I've never had a bit of problem...I just break it down and carry it in a medium sized duffel bag.

[pris]

No problems here, either. I put mine in a carry on suitcase and told the TSA what I had as I was going through the line. They appreciated me telling them. The only thing that may give you problems is if you carry on any type of digging knife. I always put my digging tools in a checked baggage. The expensive stuff never leaves my sight.

[ohiotech]

I know that they won't let me carry my sod cutter, so I would have to leave that behind. And since I expect to take it on beach trips, I hope I don't need my cutter.

Thanks for the input. I measured the hard shell carry on will be measured when I get to the airport. This will make sure that I can always carry it on. If not, I will find myself a duffel like bag. I have an overnight bag, so that might have to do.

[bdahunter]

I've always put my detector and travel beach scoop in my checked luggage. I've never had a problem when I've taken my detector to Mexico and to the States, coming back I have to carry a special form or I am liable to pay customs duty a 2nd time.

Cheers,

BDA

[ohiotech]

I never thought about the duty issue when going to places like that. Where did you get the documentation to prove that you already owned it so that you didn't have to pay those duties?

[bdahunter]

Originally Posted by ohiotech

I never thought about the duty issue when going to places like that. Where did you get the documentation to prove that you already owned it so that you didn't have to pay those duties?

I live in Bermuda which gains most of its' government revenue from customs duties so things are definitely stricter here than they are in the U.S.. Bermuda customs requires a special yellow form for items taken in and out of the country for which duty has already been paid. If you have your original receipt showing that you paid the taxes on the purchase in the States you should have no problems.

Cheers,

BDA

[Joker]

I have a hard shell pelican travel case that I can fit one detector, 3 coils, my tool belt, and pinpointer. I suppose with the smaller MD's you can carry them on but if you have alot of gear check it on. Good luck