Not that scary: flying with a SUP-board

For many, flying with a SUP-boards sounds scary due to their size, weight and unforeseen baggage charges. Yet flying with a SUP is easier than you think. Yes, a SUP is big, but if you go inflatable and plan your trip carefully there is nothing to worry. You can even bring an inflatable SUP as hand luggage!

Yes, it is possible to fly with a Bamboo too, despite of its fixed form. If you do, protect your sweet Bamboo with a SUP-bag - our board bags have a bit of extra space to add some extra padding. In this article, you find a checklist of all necessary things to think off if you buy a SUP.

Well now, for the matter of flying with a SUP-board - based on the experiences of the Jobe team - we have designed a little how-to-fly with a SUP-board checklist too.

1. Research

Before you book a flight, check the airlines luggage allowance rules and how they charge for oversized/excess baggage. Many charge per piece of sporting equipment with a weight/length limit. Others charge for excess weight over the allocated individual luggage allowance. Extra luggage prices vary hugely and can determine if you can travel with your SUP-board or not. 

A Jobe inflatable SUP's weight varies between 7,2 kg -  10 kg. A full inflatable package can weigh up till 14 kg. Check our website for the most recent weight statistics.

Remember if you’re also taking a smaller domestic flight, the excess baggage limits for these flights are the same as your international flights. Chances are, your domestic flight will be with a different airline and will have separate rules. So worth checking!

2. Cheap cheap

TIP - It’s usually (always!) much cheaper to pre-book your excess luggage (rather than paying for it at the airport) and this can be done at the same time as buying your ticket. You’ll find you’ll probably have to book it on as a windsurf board as it will be too large for the surfboard dimensions, and they’ll give you a blank stare when you say it’s a SUP!
TIP - Take with you what you need! Meaning: a SUP, the pump (if you go inflatable), a leash, the adjustable paddle (bring a detachable paddle, to bring in pieces). *You may want to bring your repair kit, if you go to rough outdoor scenes.

3. Remove your fins

With a Jobe clickfin, you can easily remove your fin and put it back on, without any screws involved. Put them the waterproof inflatable bag, or in a padded pocket in the sup-bags. 

3. Discover!

Endless wandering and camping on the spot, rolling around on hills and rough terrain or discover sun, surf and sand. There is a world left to explore.