Flying with firearms in your checked luggage doesn’t have to be a daunting task, and often it’s quite straightforward. However, there are several key considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

After years of traveling with firearms, here are some essential tips and insights to help streamline the process and avoid any potential issues.

Have Everything As Simple As Possible

When preparing to go traveling with firearms, simplicity is key. For example, if I’m traveling with my Springfield Armory Hellcat, I’ll place it in a hard-sided lock box. This box will also contain the magazines, which will be unloaded and separate from the firearm itself. Additionally, the slide will be locked back to clearly indicate that the firearm is unloaded. These straightforward steps can significantly reduce delays and complications during the check-in process.

Arrive Earlier Than Normal When Flying With Firearms

Flying with firearms can add time to your check-in process. While some airports handle firearm declarations swiftly, others can take longer. I’ve experienced wait times ranging from a few minutes to over half an hour, waiting for a TSA agent or Sheriff to inspect my firearm. Additionally, if the check-in counter is staffed by someone unfamiliar with the process, this can cause further delays. Therefore, it’s prudent to arrive at the airport earlier than you normally would to accommodate these potential delays.

Keep Firearms And Ammo Separate

Although it’s not a universal rule, keeping your firearms and ammunition separate can simplify the check-in process. Fewer questions from the check-in agent mean a quicker path to your gate. Typically, I’ll lock my firearm in a hard case, which is then placed inside my suitcase. Any ammunition I’m traveling with will also be inside the suitcase, but separate from the firearm. The suitcase itself is also locked for added security. Remember that every airline has it’s own policies for traveling with firearms, so be sure to check their website before heading out.

Locks And More Locks

Most airlines require that the firearm be in a locked hard case. If your handgun is in the manufacturer’s hard case, that case must be locked. This hard case is usually placed inside a suitcase (mostly for handguns), which should also be locked, even if it’s not a requirement. Given that your luggage will pass through many hands during the travel process, it’s wise to lock your suitcase to prevent unauthorized access.

The below example holds quite a few handguns and isn’t necessarily going to go inside your luggage, but smaller ones are available as well.

Have Your Concealed Carry Permit

If you’re traveling from or to a state that requires a concealed carry permit, make sure to have it with you. While it’s unlikely that you’ll need to show it at check-in, it’s always best practice to have it easily accessible. This can save you from potential legal complications and provide peace of mind.

Check With Airline Requirements Prior To Your Trip

Airlines have specific policies about flying with firearms, and these policies can vary. While many airlines have similar rules, some may have unique requirements. For instance, some airlines allow loaded magazines to be stored in the same case as the firearm, while others require them to be packaged separately. Visiting your airline’s website before your trip can provide you with the necessary information and prevent any surprises at the airport.

Make Sure Of Where You’re Traveling Through

Layovers can present unique challenges when flying with firearms. It’s crucial to be aware of the laws in any states you’ll be passing through. For example, if you have a layover in New York City, be extremely cautious. NYC has a history of arresting travelers simply for passing through with a handgun, even if they don’t have direct possession of it.

Consider what might happen if your flight gets canceled during a layover in a state with strict gun laws, such as New Jersey or New York. Without a permit for that state, retrieving your checked baggage, which contains your firearm, could be illegal. Understanding the laws of your layover locations can help you avoid legal trouble.

Understanding Federal and State Laws

Federal laws provide guidelines for traveling with firearms, but state laws can vary significantly. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that firearms be unloaded, locked in a hard-sided container, and declared to the airline at check-in. However, individual states have their own laws regarding the possession and transport of firearms. For example, some states have stricter rules about magazine capacity, types of firearms allowed, and permits required.

Before traveling, research the laws of your destination and any states you’ll be passing through. Websites like the NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action or the U.S. Concealed Carry Association provide up-to-date information on state gun laws. Knowledge of these laws can prevent legal issues and ensure that you are compliant throughout your journey.

Dealing with the TSA

The TSA has specific procedures for checking firearms. When you declare your firearm at the check-in counter, you’ll be asked to fill out a declaration form stating that the firearm is unloaded. The TSA agent may then inspect the firearm to verify that it is unloaded and properly stored.

After inspection, the firearm case will be locked, and you’ll retain the key or combination. The locked case will then be placed in your checked luggage. The TSA may perform additional screening of your luggage, so it’s important to ensure that your firearm and ammunition are stored according to their guidelines to avoid delays.

Luggage Tracking

One effective safety measure for your luggage is to use GPS or other digital tracking methods. Advances in technology have made digital tracking more accessible and affordable than ever. For a relatively small fee, you can purchase full GPS trackers that transmit signals from anywhere, or smaller Bluetooth trackers that work within a limited range or when someone else with the app passes by.

Implementing this tracking system has significantly reduced my time and stress when checking in and traveling with handguns. I now have a convenient, mobile setup that allows me to easily transfer all my firearms and accessories securely and efficiently from place to place.

Firearm Insurance and Documentation

Flying with firearms also means considering insurance and documentation. Ensure that your firearm is covered by insurance in case of loss, theft, or damage during travel. Many homeowners’ insurance policies provide coverage for firearms, but it’s wise to verify this before your trip.

Keep copies of all relevant documentation, including your concealed carry permit, firearm registration, and insurance policy. Having these documents readily available can expedite the process if any issues arise.

Conclusion

Flying with firearms requires careful planning and adherence to various regulations. By keeping the process simple, arriving early, understanding airline and TSA requirements, and being aware of state laws, you can ensure a smooth travel experience.

Always prioritize safety and legal compliance when traveling with a firearm. Proper preparation and knowledge of the rules can help you avoid complications and enjoy a stress-free journey.

Safety Tip: When traveling with a firearm, always declare it at the check-in counter and ensure it is unloaded and securely locked in a hard-sided container.