Traveling With Light Stands: Airplane Packing Tips

Travelling with a light stand can be a tricky endeavour, especially when it comes to flying. There are several options to consider when packing your light stand for air travel. Some people suggest purchasing a hard case, such as a golf bag, to protect your equipment. Others recommend soft cases designed specifically for light stands and tripods. If you want to avoid the cost of a case, you could try bungee-ing your light stand to your carry-on bag, although this may not always be allowed. Another option is to ship your light stand to your destination in advance, or to simply rent one when you arrive.

Shipping the light stand to your destination

If you don't want to carry your light stand with you on the plane, you can always ship it to your destination. Here are some tips for doing so:

• Use a shipping service: Consider using a shipping service such as FedEx to ship your light stand to your destination. You can ship it to your hotel or a FedEx office near your destination. This option may be more convenient than carrying it on the plane, especially if you have other gear to transport.
• Pack it securely: When shipping your light stand, use a sturdy and protective case, such as a hard golf case or a Pelican case. Make sure the case is well-padded to protect your equipment during transit.
• Consider shipping costs: Keep in mind that shipping your light stand can incur additional costs. Compare the prices of different shipping services and choose one that fits your budget.
• Plan ahead: Allow enough time for shipping and consider the possibility of delays. Ship your light stand in advance to ensure it arrives at your destination before you do.
• Communicate with the recipient: If you are shipping the light stand to a hotel or another recipient, inform them about the shipment. Provide them with tracking information and ensure they are available to receive the package.
• Consider insurance: Depending on the value of your light stand, you may want to consider purchasing shipping insurance to protect against loss or damage during transit.

Using a hard golf case

When travelling with a light stand on an aeroplane, a hard golf case can be a great option. Here are some tips on using one:

Firstly, check the weight and size restrictions of your airline for checked luggage. Most airlines have a weight limit of 50 pounds, and hard golf cases can range from 6.6 to 19 pounds when empty. You don't want to be paying extra fees for overweight luggage!

When packing your light stand, consider wrapping the stand in a towel or soft fabric to provide extra protection and prevent movement within the case. You can also use clothing or towels to fill any remaining space in the case.

Hard golf cases are generally made of durable materials such as polyethylene, nylon, or polycarbonate. Look for a case with plenty of padding to protect your light stand during transit. Some cases also come with a stiff arm, which is an adjustable metal rod that helps protect the contents from impact.

While hard golf cases offer more protection than soft-sided bags, they can be bulkier and more expensive. Make sure you choose a case that is the right size for your light stand and consider the ease of storing the case when not in use. Some cases can be compressed or folded down for storage.

Keep in mind that you will need to check in your hard golf case as carry-on luggage is typically not allowed for golf bags. Also, while golf bags often fly for free on many airlines, you may still need to pay an oversize charge for oversized or overweight luggage.

Using a soft case for light stands

Soft cases for light stands and tripods are available from Domke and other manufacturers. These can be a good option for travelling with your light stands, as they are often cheaper than hard cases and can be more easily stored when not in use.

When choosing a soft case, consider the size and number of light stands you need to transport. Some soft cases are designed to carry multiple light stands, while others may only accommodate one or two. If you need to carry additional equipment, such as tripods or backdrop supports, look for a soft case with extra compartments or pockets.

Another advantage of soft cases is that they are often more lightweight than hard cases, making them easier to carry and transport. This can be especially important if you are travelling with multiple cases or have a lot of other equipment to carry.

However, it's important to note that soft cases may not offer the same level of protection as hard cases. If you are travelling with fragile or valuable light stands, you may want to consider a hard case or additional padding to protect your equipment.

When packing your light stands in a soft case, make sure to secure them properly to prevent movement during transit. You may also want to consider adding extra padding or protection around the stands to prevent damage.

Additionally, keep in mind any weight restrictions for your luggage when packing your light stands. Soft cases can sometimes be heavier than they look, especially when loaded with multiple stands.

Carrying the light stand as a personal item

Carrying a light stand as a personal item on an airplane can be tricky, but with some careful planning, it is possible. Here are some tips to help you navigate this process:

First, it is essential to check the specific regulations of the airline you are travelling with. Different airlines have varying rules regarding carry-on luggage, so it is crucial to familiarise yourself with their policies. Some airlines may allow you to carry on a light stand as long as it fits within the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Others may have more restrictive policies. Knowing the airline's regulations will help you prepare accordingly.

If your light stand is collapsible and can fit within the standard size limits for carry-on luggage, you may be able to bring it on board without any issues. Make sure to measure your light stand when collapsed and compare it to the size restrictions provided by the airline. If it fits within the allowed dimensions, you can consider investing in a durable carry-on bag or case specifically designed for light stands and tripods. These cases provide padding and protection for your equipment while adhering to carry-on size restrictions.

However, if your light stand is too large to fit within the standard carry-on size limits, you may need to consider alternative options. One solution is to ship your light stand to your destination in advance. This option eliminates the hassle of carrying it through the airport and ensures its safety, although it may be more costly. Another option is to rent or purchase a light stand at your destination, especially if you are travelling within the same country. This eliminates the need to transport your own stand.

When packing your light stand, ensure that it is properly secured and won't cause any damage to other passengers' luggage. You can use a hard case, such as a golf bag, to protect your stand and comply with airline regulations. Soft cases designed for light stands and tripods are also available, offering a more lightweight and affordable option. Additionally, consider including a printed note with your checked luggage that describes the contents and provides your contact information. This can help alleviate any security concerns and expedite the process if further inspection is required.

Lastly, always be prepared to communicate politely and confidently with airport security personnel. They may have concerns about the unusual shape or size of your light stand. By being friendly and informative, you can help them understand the nature of your equipment and increase the chances of a smooth travelling experience. Remember to stay positive and improvise if any challenges arise, and don't hesitate to seek assistance from the airport's information centre if needed.

Renting a light stand at your destination

You can find light stands for rent at companies like American Party Lights and United Rentals. American Party Lights offers free shipping and returns, a 15-minute free consultation, and a low price guarantee. They also offer a variety of lighting equipment, including LED lights, strobe lights, and more. United Rentals provides a wide range of construction lighting equipment, including portable light stands, balloon light stands, and LED light stands.

When renting a light stand, consider the height adjustability, power cord length, portability, and weight of the stand to ensure it meets your needs. Additionally, pay attention to the rental company's policies on transportation, security, and vehicle compatibility if you plan to transport the rented equipment yourself.

If you are unsure about the lighting requirements for your project, it may be beneficial to consult with the rental company to ensure you get the right equipment.

Frequently asked questions