The presence of varying gun laws by state — and nation — can complicate traveling with firearms.
But proper preparation can help people traveling with guns to avoid becoming a target of unwanted attention.
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Here are seven tips:
- If you’re driving, transporting a gun across state lines in the U.S. is normally not an issue, according to AmmoLand.com, which states that “No federal permit is required to travel with a firearm in your vehicle. Basically, if the gun is unloaded and in a locked container, you can’t get in trouble for having it ride along with you, but it is highly recommended to store the firearm in the trunk."
- If you’re flying, find out what the current rules are regarding both airlines and destinations, says the magazine Sports Afield. Its website stresses that those regulations can change, sometimes on short notice.
- Make sure you’re traveling to and from a location where you may legally possess a firearm, according to OffGridSurvival.com.
- When driving to the airport, keep the firearm unloaded and unreachable from the vehicle’s passenger section. The firearm must be transported directly to the check-in desk unloaded and in a locked hard-sided container, and guns need to be declared at check-in, the website added. Ammunition must be secured in a fiber (cardboard), wood, or metal box specifically designed to carry ammunition.
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- Do your paperwork well in advance. Traveling with firearms often means filling out forms, advises Sports Afield. “Just make sure you find out what is needed, and handle it well ahead."
- Allow plenty of time when flying. Sports Afield suggests being at the terminal at the outset of the trip a minimum of two hours ahead of time, which it indicated should allow the traveler to work his or her way through even the most “anti-gun” ticket agent. “Also, if you’ve overlooked some important detail, this should give you time to implement your backup plan,” the site says.
- Don’t argue. Sports Afield points out that righteous indignation doesn’t get a person very far with airline ticket agents, so the traveler should stay polite. And, if he or she runs into a snag, ask for a supervisor, which may or may not help. “Yelling will not help, and when you’re dealing with firearms and ammo, it may get you into serious trouble,” the magazine says.
This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.
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