How can I transport my stove overseas?
Since airlines ban gas containers, even empty ones (a display of banned items at the San Jose airport includes the burner element, too), how do expeditions transport their stoves overseas? More to the point, how can I? Mark San Jose, California
WhisperLite
Anyway, typically there are two ways around this dilemma. One is to treat the stove as disposable, or at least sellable. You buy a new stove and bottle(s) for your trip, check in for your flight with the gear still unopened in its original factory packaging, and when you come home you either throw it all away or sell it to a local. As an aside, canister-fuel stoves are usually easiest to check through because liquid fuel never touches them. The canisters, of course, cannot be transported, so that presents its own set of problems if you're traveling to very remote locations where buying fuel upon arrival isn't possible.
The other approach is to work with your airline long before departure. Call them up, get a customer-service attendant who knows luggage rules on the phone, and explain what it is you need to do. Get them to explain their rules (the various carriers differ) and how you can tackle them. And do your part by thoroughly cleaning your stove and fuel bottles (use a little acetone, and air-dry for days). If it smells at all of fuel, it ain't flying.
Support Outside Online
Our mission to inspire readers to get outside has never been more critical. In recent years, Outside Online has reported on groundbreaking research linking time in nature to improved mental and physical health, and we’ve kept you informed about the unprecedented threats to America’s public lands. Our rigorous coverage helps spark important debates about wellness and travel and adventure, and it provides readers an accessible gateway to new outdoor passions. Time outside is essential—and we can help you make the most of it. Making a financial contribution to Outside Online only takes a few minutes and will ensure we can continue supplying the trailblazing, informative journalism that readers like you depend on. We hope you’ll support us. Thank you.