Flying next week from Europe to NY-HNL-Truk

Hi all,

I am flying next week from Europe to Newark-Honolulu-truk lagoon (all flights with continental airlines).

Is there any problem with TSA in USA about having a camera housing/port in handluggage?

Strobe arms will be in checked luggage.

Any porblem with strobes (Inon)?I was planning to put them in checked luggage and having the batteries with me in cabin.

My housing is an hugyfot, so it needs a allen key to open it. I think allen keys are not allowed in handluggage, so will not be able to open the housing if TSA agent ask me to open it during check.

I will also travel with my CCr (Megalodon), I was planning to have just the electronic head and BOV with me in cabin.

Your experience? Advice?

Thank you for your help.

Regards

Johnny

Hi Johnny,

From my experience, the US carriers typically have some of the most liberal carry-on policies as far as weight. I routinely take my complete rig in a rolling bag whenever I know it's not going to be weighed.

However, I know going in that my rolling bag is going to be searched, so I allow extra time and have a good sense of humor both in line with the Xray agent and with the individual who ends up inspecting the bag. When you tell them it's underwater photography gear, they're usually interested to hear more. I've had everything from a cursory look, to several items "swabbed", to having the whole bag unpacked. Just comes with the territory. As to how TSA will react to your specific items I can tell you:

I have never had my housing opened.

I carried a set of allen wrenches multiple times (including internationally) until they were ultimately confiscated in Hong Kong. Never been an issue with TSA for me.

I carry my batteries in my Inons (although I do loosen the cap for pressure reasons)

I can't speak to the CCR bits. Their certainly more esoteric and may require additional explanation. If they're not hazardous or could conceivably be used as a weapon, I would hope you're probably OK, but maybe check with Continental beforehand.

You will love Truk!

Have a great trip,

Phil

As Phil says, I doubt you will have any issues with TSA in the US with any of the pieces you mention in your carry on, including an allen key or your CCR components. They may check them / swab them and ask what they are. I routinely carry my full rig including camera, housing and strobes in a Think Tank carry on.