So here’s my take: I’ve heard more and more chatter about hiking poles and air travel—apparently some poles are even marketed as “plane-friendly.” I’m a long-time hiker who’s seen trends come and go, and I’m not entirely buying into the hype. What’s really the big deal? Is it just another gimmick, or do these poles actually save you hassle when you hit the airport? I’ve had experiences where my gear gets scrutinized, and frankly, I’d rather not deal with that drama if it’s an unfounded worry.
Has anyone swapped out their regular poles for what the airlines call “plane-approved” models? Do these poles really differ in structure or material, or is it more about smart packaging and a change of shape? For those of you who’ve been through a few flights with these poles, are they truly more convenient or resilient, or are they simply a marketing trick to charge extra?
I’m skeptical about just overhauling my trusted gear based on a label. Would love to hear real-world experiences—both pros and cons—so I can decide if it’s time to re-evaluate what I pack for my trips.