How to Travel With a SUP?

If like us, winter is synonymous with I'm-getting-on-a-plane-and-I'm-going-to-paddle board-somewhere-down-south, here is how to travel with your inflatable or hard sup board. Here you will find tips and tricks to travel easily, affordably and quickly with your paddle board.  

Inflatable or hard SUP?

The answer is both. Whether you have an inflatable or hard paddle board, know that it is possible to travel with it. Although both options are possible, the inflatable board option is less expensive and requires less time at the airport. Transporting your hard SUP is not very complicated, but some tips can make the task easier. Here's why.  

Photo : Patrice Lamoureux

Traveling with your inflatable SUP

Since the size of the carry-on bag for our inflatable boards is similar to that of a normal suitcase, it is possible to check your inflatable SUP in the hold at NO EXTRA CHARGE. Please note: some carriers charge if it is a sporting item. Our advice: since our carry-on bag is the same size as a suitcase, don't say it's sporting equipment; you'll save the extra charge. 

Friendly advice: as the majority of airlines offer the first checked bag free, take the opportunity to fill the transport bag of the inflatable SUP to the maximum. Put the rest of your clothes and accessories in your hand luggage and voilà. NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE for bringing your inflatable SUP on a trip!  

Traveling with 1 suitcase + 1 SUP?

If you wish to bring your inflatable SUP in addition to a checked luggage, here are the fees for additional luggage depending on the airline:  

Photo : Dominic Faucher

Transporting an inlflatable SUP?

Evidently, there is no need to remind you that the transport bag is included with the purchase of our inflatable SUPs and includes wheels, shoulder straps to facilitate transport, a ventilation window to evacuate moisture and storage pockets to store lots of smaller items (sunscreen, life jacket, GoPro, cap, towel, etc.).

Traveling with your hard SUP?

Traveling with a hard SUP requires a little more logistics, but it is still, VERY FEASIBLE. The proof: we have done it many times and several SUP amateurs as well. What you should know is that the majority of major airlines agree to transport sports equipment and that fees do apply depending on the weight and dimensions of the board.  

To help, we have listed the prices and dimensions allowed by certain major airlines in Québec:  

No matter which airline you travel with, we strongly recommend that you CHECK WITH THE AIRLINE BEFORE YOU LEAVE FOR THE AIRPORT. To give you an idea, two of our ambassadors wanted to bring their hard SUP to Norway but since the airline imposed a 10ft limit, they had to opt for the inflatable boards. 

Photo : Dominic Faucher

Other advice

• Always check the information with the company before your departure  
  
• Arrive early to the airport: check-in takes longer  
  
• Notify the airline beforehand to guarantee you space  
  
• Safely store the equipment in a bag for this purpose  
  
• Airlines are not responsible for loss, theft or breakage 

Photo : Patrice Lamoureux

In any case, traveling with your inflatable or hard SUP is possible, safe and affordable, especially when considering the rental costs in some Caribbean countries.

If you have any questions about the transportation or storage of SUP, please don't hesitate to contact us. It would be our pleasure to assist and guide you towards the most favorable option.

Safe travels!