How to Fly with Scuba Gear:
Airline Rules, Packing & Travel Tips

Flying with scuba gear doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does take some planning. From weight limits to packing strategy, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to avoid extra fees, protect your equipment, and make sure nothing important gets left behind.

At a Glance

• Carry-on your mask, computer, and valuables; check bulky gear.
• Use a packing list and weigh bags before leaving home.
• Avoid first-day dives in case a checked bag gets delayed.

Know the Airline Rules

• Checked vs carry-on: Most gear goes in checked baggage. Your fragile items do not. Regulators, dive computers, masks, and lithium-powered devices belong in your carry-on if you have the space.
• Weight limits: Standard allowance is 50 pounds per checked bag. Exceed it and you will pay for it. Low-cost carriers may allow 40 pounds or less.
• Size limits: Many dive bags exceed linear-inch limits even when they are within weight. Know both measurements before you fly.
• Scuba exceptions: A few international carriers offer extra weight for scuba gear. Do not assume this applies; verify it in writing.
• Lithium battery rules: Cameras, lights, and scooters with lithium batteries must be carried on. Spare lithium cells are always prohibited in checked baggage.

Decide What Gear to Bring

• Bring gear that must fit you: Mask, dive computer, exposure protection, and usually your regulator. Fit and familiarity matter more than convenience.
• Rent gear that is bulky: BCDs, tanks, and weights add weight with no benefit to bringing your own. A rental BCD may not be perfect, but it will not break your trip.
• Do not check fragile gear: Regulators and computers get damaged in baggage systems far more often than people admit. Keep them with you whenever possible.
• My approach: I always carry my mask, computer, and regulator. If I need to shift weight, the regulator is the only item I will move to checked baggage.

Packing Strategy

• Choose the right bag: Roller bags are convenient but heavy. Duffels are lighter but less protective. Some dive bags add padding and drain holes but may exceed weight limits when empty. See our Dive Bag Buying Guide for options.
• Protect fragile items: Use neoprene covers, soft clothing, or padded reg bags. A mask case inside your carry-on is usually enough.
• Never pack wet gear: Moisture causes mold, sour smells, and corrosion. Airlines deny damage claims on bags containing wet items.
• Do not bring weights: Lead adds weight without any benefit. Every shop has weights. Leave them.
• Use a packing list: Essential items get forgotten more than you think. Use the Dive Otter Travel Packing Checklist to avoid that mistake.

How to Avoid Baggage Fees

• Maximize your carry-on: Anything heavy, fragile, or expensive rides with you. Regulators and computers are ideal.
• Weigh bags at home: A $10 luggage scale saves you from paying $100 at the counter.
• Split gear with a buddy: If traveling with a partner, spread heavy items across bags to stay under limits.

What to Carry On vs Check

Special Cases and Common Problems

• Tanks: Leave them home. Removing the valve may make them legal, but it is rarely worth the hassle.
• Dive knives and tools: These must be checked. TSA will confiscate them immediately if discovered in carry-on.
• Delayed or lost bags: Do not book your first dive on the day you land. Keep a minimum kit (mask, computer, swimsuit) in your carry-on.

Extra Tips for International Flights

• International legs often have stricter baggage rules than domestic ones, especially on partner airlines.
• Carry screenshots of the airline’s baggage policy in case you need to challenge an incorrect fee.
• Some countries inspect dive bags for spearfishing equipment or prohibited tools.
• Verify that your dive insurance covers evacuation and medical care abroad.

Before You Leave for the Airport

• Weigh bags at home
• Move all lithium batteries to carry-on
• Remove knives and tools from carry-on
• Confirm gear is fully dry
• Bring printed or digital certification cards
• Carry proof of travel insurance if required

Flying with scuba gear is not hard. The problems come from overweight bags, wet gear, or assuming airlines make exceptions for divers. If you know the rules, protect your critical gear, and pack intentionally, you will avoid the fees and protect the equipment that protects you underwater.

For international or high-cost trips, consider Travel Insurance so that delays, lost gear, or missed connections do not derail your dive days.