BCs and air travel

[johm77]

I was looking at BC's at various dive shops and noticed they are pretty darn heavy, especially the less expensive jacket-style BC's.
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>I'm actually planning on buying a regulator/computer combo first, then my next purchase will be a BC.</DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>Does anyone have any problems making luggage weight with their scuba equipment?</DIV>

[georoc01]

Well, my computer/reg going in my carry on, so its not part of the weight equation. But my mask, BC, fins, suit etc, weighs about 40lb so I have been able to get under the limit without a problem.
<DIV></DIV>My only concern are some of these small planes that have only 30lb limits like they use in Costa Rica. Seems like I would have to eat the price and pay for additional weight.

[jacewindu]

i just got back from a weeklong trip to hawaii. BC, fins, wetsuit in the checked bag weren't any problem at all. I usually keep my mask in my carry on (just in case)

if you're over 50 lbs, you're bringing too many clothes

[CompuDude]

Luggage weight restrictions is a big issue in Scuba.

There are a few BCs that travel fairly well, but nothing packs as compactly as a backplate and wing. Check out the OxyCheq Mach V wing with a DiveRite aluminum backplate and simple harness and you'll have the ultimate travel package. The Zeagle Escape is probably the only thing that comes close in a traditional-style BC.

[johm77]

Thanks for all the replies. An additional problem I have is that I'll be traveling for Business, so I'll need to bring an ample supply of work clothes / shoes, in addition to my laptop.
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>But, being that it is travel, I guess I can just expense the additional luggage fees, if need be.</DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>CompuDude, I was under the impression that backplate / wings were heavier. Thanks for the info.</DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>-johm</DIV>

[CompuDude]

Originally Posted by johm77

Thanks for all the replies. An additional problem I have is that I'll be traveling for Business, so I'll need to bring an ample supply of work clothes / shoes, in addition to my laptop.
<div></div>
<div>But, being that it is travel, I guess I can just expense the additional luggage fees, if need be.</div>
<div></div>
<div>CompuDude, I was under the impression that backplate / wings were heavier. Thanks for the info.</div>
<div></div>
<div>-johm</div>

The steel backplates are heavier, and steel plates are good for diving colder waters, but for warm water diving (and certain specific situations in cold water) the aluminum plates work well.

[Illini_Fan]

I can't speak to anyone other than AA since they seem to be the only domestic airline I fly, but you can check two pieces of luggage per passenger, so the business clothes should not be an issue.

[ScubaToys Joe]

The most popular travel BCD is the Zeagle Brigade it has a nice sturdy frame with a 35 lb. bladder that make it light weight and it packs very small without giving up the secure fit that Zeagle is famous for!
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>Joe </DIV>

[ertechsg]

No full set of gear, riptide BC (BLACK)+week of shortsunder50 lbs

[Diver Dennis]

It can be a problem traveling in Asia where the check i weight limit is 20kgs, especially with housings and strobes but there are airlines like Malaysia that will give you an extra 10kgs, if you ask. You have to dig pretty deep to find it on their website... [img]smileys/smiley2.gif[/img]