With all the latest developments in security at airports nowadays, it suddenly dawned on me that I may not be allowed to carry my Nordic walking poles onto the airplane.  

We are flying from Stansted to Biarritz at the end of May, so I thought I had better check it out and see if they were allowed or not.  Good job I checked as according to the Stansted guidelines, walking poles are not permitted in the cabin.  I wonder what would happen if I needed them to help me with a disability I had?  Perhaps I should start practicing my limp?

No Poles Allowed – What Next?

Walking poles are relatively expensive (about £70), so the last thing I want to do is put them in the hold, but it looks like I have no option if I want to take them with me.  I can not hide them away in my rucksack, and it also looks like I will need to remove my cutlery, corkscrew and the scissors that I have in my pack!  I am also a bit nervous about putting everything in the hold, just in case it does not arrive at the other end.

What are my options?

• I can pack up my poles and put them in the hold, which sounds like the best solution.  I have found a great little Nordic Pole carry case on Amazon that once you have used the case, it packs into a bum bag (which may come in useful).
• I can purchase poles from St Jean – then donate them when leaving.
• I can put my complete pack in the hold and keep my fingers crossed that it will appear at the other end.
• I walk without poles (not really an option!)

If you have any other ideas on how I can take my poles with me then I would value your feedback.

Many thanks