We asked NAHC members to share their hunting travel tips. Here are a few of our favorites.
• When using an ATV, always tread lightly and keep the rubber side down.
• Pack your equipment and clothing in small duffle bags because they fit better on small planes.Wear your hunting clothes if possible to save space.
• Ship your guns or bows ahead of time to avoid possible loss or damage by airlines.
• When hunting with other persons from one truck, make sure everyone has a key.
• Buy the best gun case you can afford. Take the foam padding out of your case and use clothing, gear, boots and any other equipment that can be stuffed around your rifle or bow. This cuts down on the number of bags you have to pay for when you fly.
• When you pack, think like a Boy Scout or Marine: Be prepared for the unexpected.
• When airline security asks you, “Do you have any guns,” don’t answer: “Are you looking for any particular model?”
• Do as much scouting as you can sitting on your butt at home. Check websites, hunter forums, maps and make calls to state game agencies.
• Don’t rush through your hunting trips; always treat each and every experience like it’s the most important trip of your lifetime.
• Always use the “slime” products in your vehicle tires. It permanently fills up to ¼-inch holes in tires and stops slow leaks.
• While booking hotels in Montana that I’ve stayed at previously, I let them know I’m an NAHC member. They have input that into their computer system along with my other personal information. When I’ve called at times to book a room and they say they are full, I tell them I’ve stayed there before. When they pull up my information, my hunting party and I have always gotten a room or rooms.
• And the NAH editors’ absolute favorite: Lay out all your clothes and all your money on the floor at home. Then take half the clothes and double the money!
