As the holidays approach, many tradespeople will be traveling around the country, visiting friends and family to celebrate. While most people plan ahead for packing things like socks, underwear and toiletries, one thing that might not cross your mind until it’s too late: how do you pack your tools? You never know when or where a job could pop up, plus it’s almost inevitable that when you get home your family will have something they need you to work on.
Let’s look at flying first. According to the Transportation Security Administration’s website, you are allowed to pack tools in your carry-on bag, as long as they are not power tools and are 7 inches or shorter when fully assembled. So if you have a few small tools, like screwdrivers, wrenches or pliers, you can easily toss them in your carry-on. The Tradesman Pro™ Tool Station Backpack has 21 pockets for carrying tools of any size, but is still compact enough to meet TSA requirements for carry-on luggage.
As for anything larger than that, you’ll have to pack it in a checked bag – just make sure to separate any batteries and pack them in your carry-on. While it may be slightly inconvenient to check a bag, this does mean that you can bring things like drills, saws, and of course the essential 9-inch Lineman’s Pliers on your journey, and you’ll be prepared for whatever repair needs that pop up.
Now if you’re driving, you’ll probably have a little easier time getting your tools around. While many tradespeople keep a separate set of tools in their car for emergencies, you can always back up any essentials in any one of our dozens of bags, and you’ll be ready to hit the road.
What tips and tricks do you have for traveling with tools? Let us know on social media.