How to travel by plane with a surfboard?

Hey there, wave adventurer! If you're planning to jet off to exotic spots with your precious surfboard, keep in mind that traveling by plane with your gear requires careful preparation . Here's a complete guide to help you transport your board with complete peace of mind.

Choosing the right cover for your board

Choosing the right cover is crucial for protecting your board during travel . There are several types of covers, each suited to specific needs :

• Surf socks : Ideal for short, regular trips, they protect your board from scratches and UV rays. However, they offer limited impact protection, making them less suitable for air travel.

• The classic surfboard bag : Thicker than a sock, it's suitable for car journeys or storage. However, for air travel, additional protection is recommended.

• The travel board bag : Designed specifically for air travel, it offers 10 to 12 mm of foam padding to absorb shocks. Some models can hold several boards and have dividers to prevent them from rubbing against each other.

Prepare your board for the trip

Once you've chosen the right cover, it's essential to properly prepare your board:

1. Remove the fins : If they are removable, take them off to prevent them from breaking or damaging the board.

2. Protect the nose and tail : These are the most vulnerable parts. Use bubble wrap, towels, or specific protective materials to reinforce them.

3. Packing the board : Wrap it completely in bubble wrap or clothing to add an extra layer of protection.

4. Use foams for the rails : Insulation foams, available in DIY stores, can be attached along the rails to absorb shocks.

5. Fill the empty spaces : Place your wetsuits, towels and other equipment around the board in the cover to prevent it from moving and to cushion the shocks.​

Research airline policies

Each airline has its own rules regarding the transport of surfboards . It is therefore essential to check before booking . Here are a few examples:

• Air France : Surfboards under 300 cm and weighing less than 23 kg can be transported free of charge if they are the only piece of checked baggage. Additional fees apply for boards exceeding these limits.  

• KLM : Fees vary depending on the route. Boards from 107 to 300 cm must be reserved in advance. In most cases, the board bag will be considered your only checked baggage. You can also find more information on their website: https://www.klm.fr/information/baggage/special-baggage

• Qatar Airways : A board bag weighing up to 32 kg can be carried free of charge as part of the baggage allowance. There is no specific size limit.

It is advisable to contact the company beforehand to confirm the conditions and avoid any unpleasant surprises .

Insuring your board

Despite all precautions, unforeseen events can occur . Taking out travel insurance that covers sports equipment is a wise decision . Check that your insurance policy includes coverage for damage to or loss of your board during transport .

Additional tips

• Label the cover : Clearly write your contact information on the cover to make it easy to identify if it gets lost.

• Photographing the board : Before leaving, take photos of your board. This can serve as proof in case of damage during transport.

• Arrive at the airport early : The check-in process for special baggage can take longer, so plan to arrive in advance.

By following these tips, you'll maximize your chances of your board arriving at your destination in perfect condition. You can also find more information on the voyagesetsurf.com blog. Now all you have to do is enjoy the waves and make the most of your surf trip!

Alternatively, we offer you a list of the best spots to go with your board in this article!