One way to check a hikers backpack for a flight.

Checking a backpack for a flight can be a scary thing. Your home for your upcoming hike is all inside that pack. Not to mention awkward items like trekking poles, hip belts, etc.. Loose straps and webbing can get caught inside conveyor belts and if your backpack is lost or damaged it is even worse for you than it is for a normal passenger. 

When you fly you want to leave any canister fuel or denatured alcohol at home and get it at your destination or mail it to yourself. You could put your backpack in a duffle you don't mind throwing away or mailing home. *Don't discard your duffle in the airport!! It will create a huge security risk for the airport!

OR...

Do this easy but very low class style of checking a backpack:

Make a disposable garbage bag suitcase!

How to:

1) Obtain one of those wonderfully durable and cheap IKEA bags. Or one like it. 

2) Stuff your backpack in the ikea bag and tie the handles.

3) Then stuff the bag into a trash bag and tie the top of it.

4) Double bag it for security. Repeat step 3. 

5) Find a strong packing tape. I recommend filament type (the kind with the string in it that resists breakage). Tape securely.

6) Make handles with the tape wherever desired!

Voila! Disposable durable suitcase!! 

Optional Step: Ignore all the weird looks "fancy" people give you in the airport.