Has anyone encountered any issues w/ security screening for flights w/ their GB gear? Planning a trip this fall and have not flown that much. Thanks.
A few members have discussed plans and experiences with regards to transporting Proton Pack replicas via commercial airlines.
I believe the best approach is contact the airport or airline to find their thoughts on it, and consider the possibility of leaving items like the Proton Pack at home.
Where are you planning to go?
A friend and I recently flew from St. Louis, Missouri to Los Angeles for the Hollywood Premiere of Ghostbusters. We managed to get the packs on the plane without any real difficulty, but there are several steps that need to be taken.
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Proton Packs need to be checked luggage. Taking them on as carry-on would not only be difficult and awkward, but could cause panic among other passengers. The same applies to other GB gear such as traps, belt gizmos, etc.
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For our packs, we stored them in heavy-duty plastic tubs with a great deal of padding; green open-cell foam, bubble-wrap (especially for the thrower), blankets, and pillows. However, be prepared to undo any careful packing at the airport - we didn’t have to unpack anything, but be ready in case TSA needs to examine it. Also, make absolutely sure you remove any lithium-ion batteries that may be used to power your pack and store them in your carry-on bag.
You should also label the boxes with your name, address, phone number, etc.
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The rule of thumb is get to the airport two hours before your flight. When traveling with packs, give yourself an extra hour to deal with possible TSA questions and the sheer weight and bulkiness of the packs (which physically slows you down).
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Call the airport at least a day in advance and explain what kind of cargo you plan on transporting. It doesn’t have to be too complicated, and don’t bore them with irrelevant details about the packs. Something like, “Hi, I’m going to be traveling with a replica movie prop that looks dangerous, but is just a prop; one of those backpacks from the movie Ghostbusters.” Explain that you will show up early and make every effort to communicate with TSA and the airport.
Be as open and transparent as possible. If TSA scans your luggage and sees something that they can’t identify, they will shut down the airport.
- In addition to very carefully securing the pack in a box, make a very simple letter in plain language explaining the contents of the box (have it lying on the topmost padding inside the lid).
*Dear TSA Agent,
Enclosed is a replica of one of the backpack props from the movie Ghostbusters. It is made of fiberglass, plastic, and metal. The warning labels are purely cosmetic and mean nothing. The backpack has flashing LED lights, but it is turned OFF and the batteries have been removed. Please contact me directly if you have any questions about this item.*
Also throw in a couple reference photos - nothing complex, just a few showing the backside, thrower, and preferably one where Dan Aykroyd or Bill Murray are clearly seen wearing them.
Overall, we had no difficulty flying with our packs, as cumbersome as they were to deal with. Our gear only suffered some very minor damage on the return flight, mostly a couple of fake welds that came loose and a bit of rubbing on one of the bumpers from the trap.
I just can’t shake away the thoughts of baggage handlers throwing the bins around, like they do with everyone else’s luggage.
I agree… I’ve invested waaayyy too much in my pack to even try travelling on a plane with it… If I’m travelling with my pack, it’s having it’s own space in my car… Nobody else will handle it…
Awesome thanks for the responses. I don’t have a pack yet, but I am building the uniform and w/ the belt gizmos and matty trap. A friend and I are planning a trip to Hook and Ladder this Halloween. Hopefully it wont still be under construction.
I have seen the blithering idiots (baggage handlers) throw people’s stuff in the cargo area of the plane as if they dont give a crap whats in there. So. I wouldnt bring any of my gear if I had them and traveling. I would probably just put them in a vehicle and thats all that maters. I would hate it when these idiots throw my stuff in the plane as if it pillows or nothing is breakable.
One time I came home with an oversized, over weight bag. As I stood there waiting for it to be on the belt, it was hard to catch it because the idiots had it upside down. once i found it I had a hard time trying to grab it. because the handles were under it. So I figurued that the lighter you pack the easier it will be.
Sometimes people take chances. I wouldnt though. hope you made it with your packs. TSA can be a pain in the butt to deal with.
Thanks for taking the time to describe your process… very helpful :).