Introduction: Packing a Metal Detector for Safe Travel
Metal detecting on vacation is a great way to enjoy your hobby. While some treasure hunters on vacation will rent a machine, others prefer to bring along their own metal detector from home. Traveling by plane with your metal detector is actually quite easy, but you do want to be sure to pack your machine properly so it doesn’t become damaged. It shouldn't be a problem with TSA, but you might want to check in advance, just to be sure...
Step 1: Use a Hard Case Whenever Possible
The best way to fly with your metal detector is to purchase a hard case designed to carry your specific machine. These cases feature foam cut-outs for various machine parts and, as a result, are able to keep your metal detector as snug and safe as possible. However...
Step 2: A Hard Suitcase Is Another Option
If you can’t find the hard case designed for your specific brand and model of metal detector, find a hard suitcase at a thrift store that will work when matched with some additional padding. High-density foam can be purchased at any mattress shop. You'll want to the foam to fit snugly in your case and I've heard that putting the foam in the freezer first can stiffen it up a bit, but I've never tried this.
Place all of your machine pieces on the open case, trace the parts and cut the foam accordingly. I've used a filet knife, an electric knife, an Exacto knife, and I've read you can make some crazy hot-wire device for absolute precision...but that's an entirely different Instructable.
Step 3: Take Extra Care With Search Coils
There are several parts of your metal detector that are extremely fragile, so you’ll want to be extra cafeful with when traveling. The metal detector search coils are the most essential. If you're not carrying a hard case, be sure to at least wrap your search coils in a specially-padded case or at least some of your clothing. Then place in the center of your suitcase for added protection.
Step 4: Take the Batteries Out
You’ll also want to remove the batteries from your metal detector and transfer them to a piece of your carry-on luggage. This has actually been requested by the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA). In case there's a problem with one of the batteries, for any reason, flight personnel can access it right away.
Step 5: Electronics Should Be Packed As a Carry-On, Too
The main electronic components of your metal detector should also be separately packed in a padded metal detector case and brought along as a carry-on, if possible. Otherwise, be sure to pack them very securely considering all the “movement” they will have to endure being transported in the regular luggage bay on the plane.
Step 6: And a Few More Notes...
In addition to these suggestions, we also generally pack your metal detector's manual along with the device so that TSA personnel know exactly what type of machine they’re looking at. When traveling internationally, you may also want to bring along the receipt for your metal detector to avoid any problems with customs.
Overall, traveling by airplane with your metal detector is really quite easy as long as you take a few precautions. You and your machine arrive should arrive safely at your destination, ready to hunt for some treasure!
