Are trekking poles allowed as hand luggage on LATAM and Gol flights?

No – trekking poles are not allowed as hand luggage on LATAM or Gol flights. Both airlines follow ANAC (Brazil's civil aviation authority) rules, which classify trekking poles as potential weapons. They must be packed in checked luggage. Even folding poles or poles with rubber tips are not permitted in the cabin. If you arrive at security with them, they will be confiscated. Pack them securely in your checked bag, use rubber tip covers to protect your luggage, and loosen locks slightly to prevent pressure damage. For domestic flights, the same rule applies – always check your poles.

1. The rule – no trekking poles in hand luggage

On LATAM and Gol flights, trekking poles are not permitted in hand luggage. This applies to all flights – domestic and international – departing from Brazilian airports. The rule is set by ANAC (Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil), which classifies trekking poles as items that could be used as weapons. Even if your poles are folding, have rubber tips, or are made of plastic, they are still prohibited.

2. Why this rule exists

Security regulations classify any item that could be used to strike or injure as a potential weapon. Trekking poles, with their sharp tips and rigid shafts, fall into this category. The rule is consistent with international standards – the same prohibition applies on most airlines worldwide.

3. What happens if you try to take them through security?

If you bring trekking poles to the security checkpoint, you will be asked to either:

• Check them in – You may have to go back to the check‑in desk and pay for checked luggage.
• Abandon them – If you don't have time to check them, you will have to leave them behind. They will be confiscated and disposed of.Do not risk this. The security screening at Brazilian airports is thorough, and poles will be detected.

4. How to pack trekking poles for LATAM or Gol flights

a. Pack them in checked luggage

• Use a padded pole bag or a PVC tube to protect them.
• Fit rubber tip covers to prevent punctures.
• Loosen locks – Slightly loosen lever or twist locks to prevent them from seizing with cabin pressure changes.
• Wrap in clothing – Place them in the centre of your suitcase, surrounded by soft items.
• Secure the bag – If using a padded bag, zip it closed and secure with a luggage strap.

b. If you don't have checked luggage

• Hire poles at your destination – Many outdoor shops in hiking destinations offer pole rental.
• Buy a cheap pair on arrival – Decathlon has stores across Brazil.
• Ship your poles – You can ship them to your first accommodation.

5. The exception – medical use

If you have a medical condition and need poles as a mobility aid, you may be allowed to take them in the cabin. However, this is at the discretion of the airline and airport security.

• Contact the airline in advance – LATAM and Gol have special assistance departments.
• Carry a doctor's letter – In Portuguese, explaining your condition.
• Be prepared for rejection – Even with a medical reason, some security staff may still refuse them. It is always safer to check them in.

6. Domestic vs. international flights

The same rule applies to both domestic and international flights departing from Brazil. LATAM and Gol follow ANAC rules on all flights. For international flights arriving in Brazil, the same rule applies – your poles must be checked.

7. The cost of checking poles

• LATAM – Checked baggage fees vary by route. Typically R$40–100 per bag.
• Gol – Similar fees. Check your booking for details.
• Sports equipment – Some airlines charge extra for sports equipment if the bag exceeds certain dimensions. Check the policy before booking.

8. What to carry in hand luggage

While your poles are in checked luggage, carry these in your hand luggage:

• Spare tips – In case your tips are damaged.
• Hex key – For adjusting lever locks.
• Spare straps – Lightweight and can save a trek.

9. A quick summary

10. Final verdict

Trekking poles are not allowed as hand luggage on LATAM or Gol flights. They must be packed in checked luggage. Pack them securely, use rubber tip covers, and loosen locks. If you are flying with hand luggage only, consider hiring or buying poles at your destination. Do not risk taking them to security – they will be confiscated. Always check your airline's policy before you travel. Happy (and hassle‑free) travels!