Flying to a bushwalk
When flying to a bushwalk, the things we can carry with us are a bit limited. Let’s look at the usual limitations we need to watch out for before flying.
The limitations are there to improve the safety of the flight and not worth trying to sneak around. Some goods (like stove fuel) you just can’t take on commercial flights. The moderately dangerous goods (like items with batteries) must be carried in hand luggage. Also, there are some goods that could be used as weapons and therefore need to be kept in your checked baggage. We have links below that will help answer unusual questions. It is always worth confirming these rules on the actual airline you are flying with. They are usually included with booking information.
Not allowed on the plane at all
- No gas or fuel is ever to be taken on commercial flights.
- (On some private helicopters and smaller planes that specifically service track heads, the pilot may allow a small amount of fuel. Ask them ahead of time. Research beforehand to ensure you pick up some compatible fuel when you land.)
- Jet lighters (Jet lighters, blue-flame lighters, arc lighters, cigar lighters etc.) are not allowed on planes at all. The simpler, mostly yellow flame lights, are permitted (see below).
Carry on luggage
- Matches or simple lighter - only one per person and must be carried on your body (no jet blue lighters).
- Headlamps - any batteries must be in your carry on luggage
- Power bank battery packs - carry on luggage only
- PLB - carry on luggage
- Hand sanitiser - carry on luggage as it’s a flammable liquid. Anything that may cause fire must go inside the plane as they can put it out easily. This is usually limited to a small amount.
Checked baggage
- Stove heads can be taken in your underneath luggage without declaring. Liquid fuel containers must be emptied and ‘made safe’, empty, drained and cleaned. The fuel container must be declared and checked in.
- Sharp objects, e.g. poop shovel, scissors, tweezers, tent pegs, knife plus more, must go in checked baggage.
- Zip ties, duct tape, strapping tape, rope or string are best checked in. Any item that could stab, hit or restrain - must go under the plane. Although not usually explicitly excluded from carry-on, best to check in to avoid the stress at security, as bushwalkers have reported having such items confiscated.
More information
If you have any more questions regarding specific items, check the following app:
Can I Pack That app
