Binoculars in a plane

[starscy]

Does anyone know how easy it would be to carry the Helios Quantum-4 15x70 or Quantum-3 20x80 binoculars in a plane? Both are supposed to come with a hard case, but how heavy and bulky are they really?

[kniclander]

i just wrapped my 20x80s in some clothes and took them in the suitcase. they were fine.

[starscy]

What about using the alluminium storage case that a lot of binoculars are supplied with? Would it be possible to carry this in a cabin?

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

Explain to your airline company what your problem is well before you check in, and they are generally very lenient about weight restrictions on hand luggage. Usually 5 kg (about 11 lbs) is OK anyway, sometimes 12 kg (!!) is OK. I have had a compact 4.5" Newtonian in my hand luggage, no problems if you ask in advance. A colleague has taken a Celestron C8 aboard a plane without problems (or extra payment). a 20x80 is peanuts in comparison.