Traveling with Your Drone

Traveling with my drone for the first time was nerve wracking. Today it isn't a big deal at all. Many airport personnel are accustomed to seeing drones and pay them little to no attention. This is true even in some third world destinations. During my first experience security held me, not because of any safety concerns but because they were curious to know more about my drone. Between the decreasing cost of drones and their popularity, drone's have become mainstream and many backpacking travelers are taking them along on their trips.

There are a few things to consider when traveling with a drone to ensure that you don't have any issues. Such questions I've been asked or should be considered are:

1. Check vs. Carry-On? 
2. Destination Drone Laws (International vs. Domestic US)
3. Resort, State or Federal Park.

Check vs. Carry-On: 

Personally I'd never check my drone for a few reasons:

1. Damage: Most drones are sophisticated electronic devices that are not designed to be handled roughly. I know everyone has seen video of luggage being thrown around or handled roughly. Even a well packed drone risks damage. I'd hate to get to my destination to discover my drone was damaged.
2. Theft:  Every flight connection you make is a chance for the drone to be lost or stolen at the airport. People are inherently not trustworthy. In the event of a loss the Montreal convention states that airlines are liable for only up to around ~$1,000 USD of baggage losses. Since most drones are in excess of that by themselves never mind any other items packed with it you will surely add up to more then the $1,000 USD you might get back.
3. Batteries: Batteries can't be checked for safety reasons and must be carried on so why not just keep all your drone gear together in a neatly packed case.

I am sure that many of you could probably list many other reasons why you shouldn't check your drone but the three above are reason enough to always carry it on.

What guidelines should you follow when packing it as a carry-on? Most airlines require travelers to follow the same rules for transportation of batteries.

1. American Airlines: Battery Restrictions 
2. Delta Airlines: Lithium Battery Rules
3. Spirit Airlines Special Restriction Carry On Rules
4. United Airlines: Battery Special Rules
5. Southwest Airlines: Battery Rules

Additionally I always package my batteries in LiPo Bags that can be found on Amazon. Here are those I use for my Mavic, Phantom and Inspire.

• Mavic Pro Lipo Bags
• Phantom 4 Pro Lipo Bags
• Inspire Lipo Bags

Destination Drone Laws:

Every country has different and often changing rules around drone use. US laws are still evolving and even some states laws are different from others. It is important to research where you want to fly and follow the rules of of that state or country.

A great resource I often use is 

UAV Systems - Country List