Traveling With Crash Pads-- With Irena
My Journey with Crash Pads Across Spain and Portugal
There’s not a lot of content out there on how to travel and store crash pads while traveling via plane. I did a 5 week trek bouldering in Albarracin and Sintra so I created a concise and detailed blog to help fellow boulderers know what to expect!
All about the gear
I used the Asana Superhero crash pad with a VersaPad stored inside. I love the Asana crash pads because they are lighter than other ones I’ve used on the market-and let me tell you what, every ounce counts when you are carrying it on your back from train to plane to car. I added an additional $10 ratchet strap because I stuffed additional towels and gear in the pad to get the most bang for my buck, but if you’re just bringing the pad the straps it comes with is more than plenty!
Why would I just not rent?
Now you’re thinking…why would I not just rent a crashed there? And I hear you. I’ve been down the rabbit hole so let me save you the trouble. If you’re going for a couple days or a weekend it might be easier and more cost effect to just rent a pad. A lot of people like myself like going to climbing destinations for 2 weeks + and I’ve found that in the long run it ends up being more cost effective bringing your own pad, and most importantly I have gear that I can trust. I can still remember the fear in my eyes from seeing and renting from certain crash pad rental sites and thinking….surely this old thin pad is not what I’m paying $20 a day for… So for peace of mind, I think it’s best for longer trips!
Airlines and crash pads
To all of our surprise, airlines don’t have a category for “climbing gear” or “crash pads”. I will put it as oversized sports equipment, or if that doesn’t exist you can always select “gymnastics pad”. Each airline is going to be different but the ones I’ve used flying from LAX allowed a 50lb weight limit so stuff things inside it to take full advantage!
Let’s talk cost
Each airline will have different rates but it ranges about $100-$200. We flew American Airlines and everything went smoothly. For layovers they keep the crash pads and transfer them for you. We were even able to take the bouldering pads on trains with no issues!
Storing My Gear
There were a few instances where we had a full day layover or we wanted to go to Mallorca but didn’t want to take the pads with us. My favorite solution? Using an app like Bounce. There’s a couple of different apps that have a similar concept, but I haven’t used them so I won’t vouch for them. For only 7 euros a day, I could securely store my gear while exploring the cities and coastlines. You can also store your suitcases there too!
In Conclusion
Exploring Spain and Portugal with my crash pads was quite an adventure— it allowed me to feel as safe as I do at home while also saving money and having extra space for gifts on the way home! So next time you’re planning a trip, consider bringing your bouldering pads along for the ride, safe travels!!