Airports and Blenders

[Rawmney]

I was thinking about taking my Tri-Best blender on a trip and wondered about getting it through the airport. I assume you'd carry it on rather than check to avoid damage. But what about the blades at security? With the Tri-Best and Magic Bullet types, where the blade detaches, seems they might be concerned. (I don't think a Vita-Mix looks like a weapon).

Would love to hear any good or bad stories or other thoughts as I'm inclined to take it, but don't want to risk having it confiscated!

Thanks all!
Rawmney

[rawpriestess]

I wouldn't try it, they are very particular about not even letting a safety pin through, and the blades of a blender are indeed blades.

If you want to take it, then make sure to stow it in baggage.

[Rawmney]

Thanks Raw Priestess! Your post made me think that I could carry on the motor base and cup, but carefully wrap the blade part in the checked suitcase. Of course, I don't usually check. Still thinking...

[Sheryl]

I usually carry electricals on the plane (I treat them better than baggage handlers - I've seen them toss suitcases 20 feet!). You could check the jug though if the blades are exposed - chances are they wouldn't like the exposed blades).

Once we travelled (immigrating) with a Green Life juicer, an Excalibur dehydrator, a 20 pound transformer, and more... it was funny seeing the suitcases go through the screening.. .then reverse with WHAT IN THE WORLD IS THAT!???! We went with 8 suitcases that totalled half a ton of luggage!

When I saw your post I imagined you blending smoothies at the airport! LOL!

Cheers,
Sheryl

[Vandy]

believe it or not but I just got back from Mexico with a Magic Bullet in my backpack, yes MAM!!! They looked through my bag and questioned it, but then he looked at me and laughed and let me through... He laughed either b/c he figured I was too thin and didn't want to deprive me of food, or b/c I had a bag full of bananas, sesame seeds, a food scale, and books lolol!!!

I say go for it! I had no problems! Plus, it's so easy to carry around...it saved me and my sister's life the past few days!

[rawpriestess]

You could always overnight express mail the blades to your destination.

or call ahead and ask them.

[Raw Faith]

They will let it go under the plane (they may inspect due to the fact it may show up in a x-ray; but dont take it as a carry on.

[jennplas]

this is not even remotely related to raw... but what i find wierd is that they wont even let you bring a nail clipper on board... however they WILL let you take some fragile picture frames and stuff like that... now i would see cut glass as more dangerous that a nail clipper.. :) just a thought! :)

jennP

[JMD]

I have traveled a lot and carried juicers etc.....but those were all carry-on items. HMMM I would pack it in your luggage..the blade part..just like I pack my razors, tweezers and nail clippers. I pack them in heavy socks or a bathrobe and I have no problems thusfar..international and national travel.

Maybe carry the cup with you on the plane--I have a MAgic Bullet and know it is not that big?? Maybe put some socks in it or fruit?? OK scratch the last suggestion...I am getting too carried away here....:)

JMD

[Guydiane]

Call the airline you are flying with and ask them. : :p

[Rawmney]

Thanks everyone!

I especially like the suggestions to put the blade in checked stuff or ship it to my destination. Good suggestion to call the airline as well, although I'm dubious of reaching anyone who knows for sure and getting an answer consistent with what actually happens.

Sheryl, I had thought I might be blending in the airport for my 7:20 a.m. return. Won't work if I need to check the blade and maybe a little neater just to blend before I leave and carry it.

Much appreciated!

Rawmney

[Deradune]

Raw Priestess, you are so smart! Mail the stuff in advance. Now why didn't I think of that?! And of course if you make plans in advance you don't need to spend the super-high charges for overnight delivery -- might make it worth getting a cheaper blender just for traveling and mailing. (smile)

[Rawmney]

Good idea to get a second one for that purpose - especially a used one from a thirft shop or something. Might be as cost effective to donate it at the destination rather than pay to mail it back. Kind of an ongoing blender recyclying program. :)

Of course, the used one might also be a reasonable risk to carry on (if the blade isn't detachable and I would check with the airline to get a read), because it wouldn't be a huge loss if confiscated.

So many creative ideas!

[JoJo]

I have flown with my Tri-Best blender. I found the travel kit that goes with it cheap on ebay. Once they really let me on the plane with it. The other times it had to go with the other luggage.

Mailing it ahead is a great idea.

JoJo

[Rawmney]

Thanks Jojo!

Raw Priestess posted this on a discussion of meal replacements and it may be an even easier travel alternative:

If you are looking for something in a powder form, you can take fruits and veggies, slice them thin, or puree them, and make then into a fruit or veggie leather, and dehydrate to crispy, then take them in a Vita Mix or coffee grinder and make them into powder, this way it will be raw and you can take it with you, or add them to other fruit or veggie juices.

it is easy to make a V8 this way or to make a super delicious fruit juice with added fruit powder so it is super delicious, and easy to make, or you can just add to water.