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Sports

⛷️ Ski poles

💼 Cabin bag

No

Prohibited in carry-on — sharp points and excessive length.

✈️ Hold (checked)

Yes

Permitted in checked baggage. Tip protectors recommended.

💡 Tip: Trekking poles, Nordic walking poles and hiking sticks are also prohibited in carry-on due to their length and pointed tips.

Airline-specific rules

🇬🇧EasyJetAccepted as hold sports equipment; must be in a bag.
🇮🇪RyanairAccepted as checked sports equipment with the appropriate fee.
🇬🇧British AirwaysSki poles checked as part of ski equipment; one ski bag counts as one item.
🇨🇭Swiss InternationalSki poles accepted in hold as part of ski equipment package at standard sports fee.

Common questions

Ski poles are prohibited in carry-on baggage in all regions and will be turned back at the checkpoint. You will need to return to check-in to have them added to your checked baggage, which may mean an additional fee depending on your airline and ticket.

Yes — trekking poles, Nordic walking poles, and hiking sticks are subject to the same prohibition as ski poles in carry-on baggage everywhere. The reason is the same in all cases: their length and pointed tips make them prohibited under carry-on rules across all regions.

There is no size exception for poles — even compact collapsible trekking poles that fold to a short length are prohibited in carry-on. Screeners apply the rule without discretion, as the item is explicitly listed as prohibited in aviation security regulations.

Ski poles should be packed in a ski bag or a purpose-made pole tube, or bundled together securely within a checked ski bag. Remove any sharp tip protectors you were using on the ground — checked baggage handlers are equipped for sharp objects, but loose tips can damage other luggage.

Based on official United States security guidelines. Rules vary by airline and route — always verify with your carrier before travel. · Rules last verified May 2026.

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