[Elecraft] Semi-OT: Traveling by air with KX3 & Buddistick

[Alan Hawrylyshen]

Nicklas;

I've carried on my KX3 with NiMH batteries many, many times. Only once did they ask what it was - swab it - and carry on. I travel with either an Elecraft BL-2 and some random wire or a G5RVjr -- never looked at twice in dozens of flights. I have no data on a buddistick - apologies.

I will note that some international locations get VERY upset over HTs - they likely ignore the KX3 because they do not identify it as a 'radio'. I had to negotiate for over 30 minutes to get my VX-8R permitted on the plane in Malaga, ES -- as the security people were adamant that no 'unlicensed, operational, walkie-talkies' were permitted. ... 

The HF gear has never raised any concern beyond the usual electronic device scrutiny level. For reference, I fly around 100K miles per year and take an HT and KX3 almost every time. I haven't had a lot of time to operate on trips, but that's a separate problem.

Best,
Alan
K2ACK


On Oct 8, 2013, at 16:27 , Nicklas Johnson <nick at n6ol.us> wrote:

> After my last trip, when I got hassled by the TSA about my wire stripper
> (no tools longer than 7 inches, even ones that couldn't possibly hurt
> anyone), I thought this time I should probably ask around first...
> 
> Has anyone traveled with a KX3 and a Buddistick in carry-on luggage?  I've
> got NiMH batteries installed in the KX3, and in the Buddistick bag there's
> the antenna itself and a couple spools of 25' of coax.
> 
> It seems like it SHOULD be okay, unless they mistake segments of the
> Buddistick for Billy Clubs, which aren't allowed in carry-on (but are okay
> in checked luggage).
> 
> But you never know these days... has anyone tried it, either successfully
> or unsuccessfully and can share experiences?
> 
> ​   Nick​