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10 Best Hiking Poles Carry On
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Hiking Poles
Buying Guide for the Best Hiking Poles Carry On
Choosing hiking poles that are suitable for carrying on a plane is about finding a balance between portability, functionality, and personal comfort. Since your goal is to travel with your poles in your hand luggage, you’ll want to focus on how compact they are when folded or collapsed, their weight, their sturdiness, and how comfortable they feel during long treks. Being thoughtful about these details can ensure your hiking poles are practical for both air travel and outdoor adventures.Collapsed LengthCollapsed length refers to how short the poles become when fully folded or retracted. This is crucial because most airlines have size limitations for carry-on items, so your poles need to fit easily in your bag or overhead compartment. Poles that fold down to 50cm (20 inches) or less are usually most airline-friendly, while longer options might be best suited to checked baggage or larger carry-ons. If you fly often or want to avoid checking luggage, aim for the shortest collapsed length available.
WeightWeight is how heavy the poles are, and it matters because lighter poles are easier to carry, both in your bag and on the trail. Lightweight poles (under 400g or about 14 oz per pair) are great for frequent travelers and those who hike long distances, as they reduce fatigue. Heavier poles are often more durable but might be tiring to handle or carry around airports. Consider how much walking you do with your pack and whether you prioritize ease of movement or extra toughness.
AdjustabilityAdjustability means whether you can change the length of the poles to suit your height or terrain. Fixed-length poles are lighter but less versatile, while adjustable poles can be collapsed for storage and set to the perfect size for uphill, flat, or downhill hiking. If you need your poles to fit inside a bag or want to share them with someone else, adjustable models offer more flexibility. Choose this based on how much you value customization and the variety of hiking you do.
MaterialMaterial describes what the pole shafts are made from, commonly aluminum or carbon fiber. Aluminum poles are strong and durable but usually heavier, making them less ideal for minimizing your carry-on load. Carbon fiber poles are lighter and easier to handle, but can be more fragile, especially in rough conditions. Select material based on whether you need ultra-light poles for easy travel and hiking or if you prefer something sturdy that can take some knocks.
Grip ComfortGrip comfort is about the shape and material of the handles. Poles come with foam, cork, or rubber grips. Foam is soft and absorbs moisture, cork adapts to your hand and is good for longer hikes, while rubber handles are best for wet conditions. If you plan to use your poles for extended periods or in different climates, try out different grip types to see which feels best in your hand and resists slipping.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism secures the pole segments at your chosen length. Flip-locks (external clamps) are easy to adjust and reliable, even with gloves on, while twist-locks are more compact but can loosen with time. Some ultra-compact poles use a push-button lock, which is quick but sometimes less robust. Choose a lock that you find simple to operate, especially considering airport security or quick adjustments on the trail.