Canoe and Kayak Airline Fees and Policy

Cruising down waterways and exploring oceans around the world in your very own canoe or kayak is a great way to experience the landscape of a country as well as being a heart-racing and exciting adventure. While canoes and kayaks are regularly available to hire overseas, enthusiasts may prefer to transport their own when taking a trip abroad.

Planning to Fly

Not all airlines accept the transportation of these items, so it's worth checking before you fly. We've gathered information on some of the major airlines below to give you an idea of which companies you may be able to fly with.

Be sure to call ahead before booking your flight to confirm with the airline and to alert them to your situation.

Aim to arrive as early as possible to check in to your flight. As flights become more full, the airline may be more likely to turn you down to save space. Make sure your canoe or kayak is one of the first items checked in and you should avoid this problem.

Packing Your Kayak or Canoe

Make sure to label each piece of gear with your name, phone number, home address, and destination address in case any pieces become detached.
Tape and wrap the paddle into your vessel to prevent it from breaking.
Wrap your canoe or kayak in either a specialist bag, disposable tarp, or a tough blanket to protect it during transportation. If using a tarp, make some handles for the baggage handlers when moving the package. You can cut holes for handles or use rope to make a shoulder strap.
Label your vessel package again on the outside with all of your necessary details, including flight number.

Airline	Are canoes and kayaks accepted as part of the personal baggage allowance?	What are the size restrictions on kayaks and canoes?	What is the weight limit on kayaks and canoes?	Further information
Air France	The transport of sports equipment and other special baggage is subject to specific conditions depending on your destination.	No specific size restrictions	23kg	For transportation authorization, phone the sales department
American Airlines	Accepted with special handling fees	Up to 320cm (126in) in length	32kg (70lbs)	Contact American Airlines for details
British Airways	Accepted as checked baggage if they do not exceed weight restrictions and are packed in a recognized bag or case.	190cm (75in) in length	23kg	Additional fees apply for baggage over 23kg
EasyJet	You will be charged an additional non-refundable fee for each item carried. Select the 'Sports equipment' option when booking online.	No specific size restrictions	32kg	Check EasyJet's sports equipment policy
Emirates	Accepted as checked baggage and part of standard baggage allowance	300cm (118in) total dimension	30kg, Business Class 40kg, First Class 50kg	Must be appropriately packed in a hard-shell packing case
KLM	Customers need to reserve for the transportation of special baggage as early as possible	300cm (118in) total dimension	23kg in Economy, 32kg in Business Class	Reserve via KLM Telephone Reservations no later than 48 hours before departure
Qantas	Sporting equipment can be included as part of your checked baggage allowance, subject to sporting equipment requirements	277cm (109in)	32kg	All items must be properly and securely packed
Ryanair	Sporting equipment may be carried in the hold for a fee	No specific size restrictions	20kg	Check Ryanair's sporting equipment policy
United Airlines	Accepted as a special item for a service charge	320cm (126in) in length	32kg (70lbs)	Contact United Airlines for details
Virgin Atlantic	Accepted in addition to free baggage allowance, at no extra charge	450cm (177in) in length	23kg	If your canoe/kayak exceeds these limits, contact the shipping department

All information provided is based on the latest available data as of 2024. Policies may vary, so it is always best to check with the airline directly before making any travel arrangements.

*Content correct at time of writing and subject to change.