Packing on an Airplane!

[FoMoCo66]

So I am going to be going to Arizona this next weekend and I want to bring 2 or 3 of my models with. I am going to be flying out there, is there any good way to pack a model so it had the LEAST amount of damage while flying? Have any of you flew with a model before? 

[sidcharles]

i remember for the first Revell-Pactra Contest, the sponsors were suggesting the contestants ship their models surrounded in popcorn.*

 

*popped, of course.

[FoMoCo66]

Well, the dog thinks he's coming with! 🤣

[Big Messer]

Find a box larger than the three models. Put each one in a zip bag so if any part get detached will not be lost. Put the bags in the box surrounded with popcorn. Tape box shut. Worked for me.

[Ace-Garageguy]

And worse case...you can eat the popcorn.

[mr moto]

Remember...NO butter and salt!

[Khils]

On 11/16/2025 at 4:11 PM, FoMoCo66 said:

is there any good way to pack a model so it had the LEAST amount of damage

  Don't forget to take along a "crash kit"...       (what you'd need to make repairs if need be).

    Going to an NNL? or judged contest Elliot? Take pics... We'd enjoy 'em!

  Best Wishes!!

Edited Tuesday at 12:50 AM by Khils

[iBorg]

I always use plastic shoeboxes if space allows. This gives some crush protection along with either air bags, even sealed baggies will work or styrofoam peanuts.

[FoMoCo66]

34 minutes ago, Khils said:

  Don't forget to take along a "crash kit"...       (what you'd need to make repairs if need be).

    Going to an NNL? or judged contest Elliot? Take pics... We'd enjoy 'em!

  Best Wishes!!

Nope, im going to the Goodguys Southwest Nationals in Scotsdale, AZ for my 16th birthday/eagle scout trip. Goodguys always has a model show and I wanted to enter at least one. I think its going to be my 40 Willys Pickup Gasser.

[SpeedAndViolence]

If at all possible... Try to bring kits with you in a Carry-on. The caveat is that the package has to be able to fit in an overhead compartment, or under your seat. If you can bring it as a carry-on , you have a bit more control over its well-being. Sending it as a 'checked bag', it will be at the mercy of the ramp workers loading and unloading. And unless you are flying SWA, the ramp workers are contracted help, woefully underpaid, and...well...they (mostly) don't care.

[FoMoCo66]

35 minutes ago, SpeedAndViolence said:

If at all possible... Try to bring kits with you in a Carry-on. The caveat is that the package has to be able to fit in an overhead compartment, or under your seat. If you can bring it as a carry-on , you have a bit more control over its well-being. Sending it as a 'checked bag', it will be at the mercy of the ramp workers loading and unloading. And unless you are flying SWA, the ramp workers are contracted help, woefully underpaid, and...well...they (mostly) don't care.

Well I am hoping to carry it on in a small package so I think I will have more control.

[Mike 1017]

No matter how you pack it make sure you put into your carry on luggage. 

[rattle can man]

And don't forget tools likely need to go in checked bags. Paint and glue are considered hazardous (at least in larger quantities), so I would check the rules on packing it, size of container etc. If the container breaks, the odor could cause chaos.

[NOBLNG]

On 11/16/2025 at 10:11 PM, FoMoCo66 said:

 Have any of you flew with a model before? 

Only in my dreams…😳

[FoMoCo66]

8It survived! 

Right after I packed it back up after this photo I accidentally dropped it on its side onto the counter and had a mini heart attack. Good thing nothing broke!

Heres what the packing looks like. The model is wrapped in a zip lock bag so if anything were to break it could be located. Then thats wrapped in bubble wrap and placed with a plastic sack on all 4 sides.