Re: Air-Travel with tripod
I can't speak for the Ries bag, but my experience with a Slik bag may be interesting.
I have a Slik U212 tripod that I originally got for use with 35mm. However, I use it with my 4x5 kit when I travel because it's lighter and smaller than the Tiltall that I use around home.
I've taken this tripod to California several times. The first couple of trips we took a large hard-sided suitcase, and stuffed the tripod in the bottom. Each time I've done that, I found that the tripod was damaged when I got home - the elevator handle was broken off.
More recently, we've used suitcases that were too small for the tripod, so I've had to simply check it through in an unpadded canvas Slik bag. It has never been damaged when I've transported it this way.
I have noticed that the tripod bag sometimes doesn't get placed on the carousel with the other bags, but instead is delivered through a door off to the side of the baggage area. Perhaps the airline personnel treat the tripod bag more gently than they do the hardsided suitcase? It does seem to defy logic.
Re: Air-Travel with tripod
When I've checked a tripod, I haven't even used a bag. I take off the head and just put a bag tag on it with name and address. Yeah, it gets a little beat up, but I refer to those dents and scrapes as "honorable scars."
Re: Air-Travel with tripod
I bought compact & light carbon tripod so it fits in carry-on luggage. I carried it on several flight within EU and once longer trip abroad and had no problems. I just took off the steel spikes. It never raised a question from the security guys (contrary to my cameras here and then)
Re: Air-Travel with tripod
Thanks guys. I'm gonna travel with the Ries, maybe with some bubble wrap or foam inside. I'll post the outcome when I arrive.
Re: Air-Travel with tripod
i had a tripod in a case through checked baggage. the bubble level got broken. that took some doing as it was fairly well protected. never under estimate damage potential when your crap gets thrown around by people who don't care
Re: Air-Travel with tripod
Sorry about your experience. I'll have to rethink what I'll use as a protective layer.
Re: Air-Travel with tripod
I've sent my Cartoni sticks through in a canvas bag a few times, but kept the video head in the suitcase. No damage yet. Be aware it may show up in the area with the golf clubs and not the carousel at your destination.
Re: Air-Travel with tripod
Thanks Jim, that's great to know.
Re: Air-Travel with tripod
Made it safely everyone. I wrapped the A-200 and A-250 head is a packing blanket and placed that in the Ries Carrying Case. My E6 film was X-Rayed, 8x10 Camera Case wasn't even opened.
Enjoying the tropics.