I'm looking for tips/tricks on transporting my medium-sized stand-up show by commercial air. What kinds of policies/charges do airlines have on road cases? I've checked several airlines' websites and can't seem to find any cut and dry answers. Any input or experiences would be appreciated!

Thanks,
MK

Check out air cargo for your selected airline. Sometimes you can check cases as baggage but there can be high charges for baggage over the limit. Shipping the bags could be cheaper.

I know a former major league baseball umpire that told me that they would air ship their equipment cases from place to place rather than check them as it was cheaper.

Just an idea.

I recently shipped a mountain bike by UPS and they gave me a very decent deal (less than 30 bucks I believe for the whole thing).

Most airlines charge you $75 extra for another bag, so that isn't much worth it.

In the words of Jeff McBride's lecture notes, "Pack SMALL play BIG".

Michael,

I would call the airline that you are planning on using and ask. If your show isn't that big, look for a case that will fit within the size limitations for a carry-on.

Justin's advice is sound, but even Jeff uses an ATA case for his full show.

ATA cases can be expensive so make sure you get one that fits within the air transport's size limitations. Also if you are going to go that route, think about using the case as your table, too.

Good luck ~ Fredrick

Also, be careful what you pack your carry-on props in. A friend of mine had a box full of swami gimmicks confiscated. They were in a matchbox. The airline was afraid of the matchbox.

The airlines probably wouldn't like any Knife through the Arm gimmicks either.

I travel often, but, since I'm primarily a hypnotist, I don't usually have problems at check-in. Sometimes I ship my sound system out via UPS (next day), but I never bring anything with me on the plane outside of the following:

1. Performance Suit
2. Sandwich (plane food can make you sick. I never take the chance when I'm on a gig).
3. enough props to do a 50-minute show in the event my baggage is lost (basically, some loops, two decks, and a wine glass).
4. Some entertainment (I just bought an ultra-thin laptop that plays DVDs - highly recommended).
5. ID, tickets, passport, and directions.

Everything else is either checked-in or shipped next-day UPS to the sponsor. If you have any questionable props or materials (like flash paper), NEVER take chances, just ship them to the location. Don't put anything in your pockets, except tickets, contact info, and directions. And put directions in your luggage! Assume your luggage is going to be lost; someone's going to need to know how to get it back to you.

Lastly, pack meds in your carry-on. Tylenol, Immodium A-D, and some pseudoephedrine. It'll save your reputation one day.