When you are going to travel on a hunting trip, packing up your firearms correctly is very important. Not only do you want to protect your rifles or shotguns from damage during your travels, but if you are flying you also have to take into consideration a proper carrying case. Obviously you can’t just throw your weapon in an old Nike gym bag and call it a day.
The TSA (The Transportation Security Administration) has very specific rules for checking your gun bags and making sure they are housed in the proper carrying case. Let’s look at a few best gun travel bags for hunters that won’t give you a hassle during your trips through the airport.
Air Travel: Basic Rules for Firearms
The most basic rule of thumb for traveling on an airplane with your firearm is that you have to put it in “checked baggage.” That includes all ammunition as well. Nothing related to your firearm, even the cleaning pieces are allowed in your carry-on baggage.
You have to declare when you check your firearm travel case with your specific airline exactly what kind of firearm you are taking with you. Another rule is that the travel bag needs to be a hard sided container with a lock on it. It can be a key lock or a combination code. Either one is fine when you travel. If you have more questions about the specifics of traveling with your firearms, the TSA has a very helpful page on their website that will give you more information.
The Top Three Travel Cases Companies
There are many different brands that make hard-sided cases that will protect your firearm when you are traveling long distance. These three are the ones that we found offer the best protection and ease while you are flying the friendly skies.
- The Plano Rifle Case: This is an excellent hard-sized case that comes in an “All-Weather” version. For travel, this is the case you want to house your firearms on a plane. It retails for around $70. The size is around 42 inches and will carry one tactical rifle including all its accessories. The foam on the inside is also customizable so you can rest easy knowing that your firearm will be fully protected while traveling.
- Pelican Rifle Cases: A hugely popular choice that many hunters consider the best cases on the market. They retail for around $150 up to $350. The V800 Vault Double Rifle Case is an especially smart choice if you have two firearms that you want to take hunting with you. It’s weather-resistant and crush-proof, so even if they are rough on it in baggage handling, this case will keep your rifles in tip-top shape.
- SKB Cases: This is a company that’s been in business for 40 years now. They make hard-sided cases that go the distance. Check out their new iSeries 3614 Double Custom Breakdown Shotgun Case. This is a waterproof case that can hold two barrels and two receivers. It also has wheels so you can roll it where ever you need to go without breaking your back. The price is around $280.
~ Firearm Daily
