Simple BC Packing Tip

[NW Dive Dawg]

This is something that's probably so ridiculously obvious that it might not even be worth posting......... but what the heck.

On a recent trip to the BVI's, I noticed that one of the folks onboard was packing her BC into her large checked bag with the tank straps down. Anyway, I showed her that if she basically reverses the BC and packs it as the first item in her bag and with the tank straps up, that it takes up FAR less space.

 

[Pressurehead]

Common sense is not so common.
Quote by Voltaire.

 

[saxman242]

I pull my tank straps off when I pack mine. Well, for that matter, I break down my whole bp/w, but the straps definitely are a big driver in how much space they take up.

 

[kinoons]

Well, by the strictest definitions a BC is the size it is no matter what direction it’s placed in the bag but yes, there absolutely is a most efficient way to use that size within luggage to allow of other items to also fit in the bag.

 

[tmrqs]

I personally roll my BCD and use the tank straps to keep it nicely/tightly folded.
Fits easily in my carry on if I’m traveling light.

 

[NW Dive Dawg]

Well, by the strictest definitions a BC is the size it is no matter what direction it’s placed in the bag but yes, there absolutely is a most efficient way to use that size within luggage to allow of other items to also fit in the bag.

Well I guess you could just wear your BC onto the plane and say it's a fancy coat or that you just feel better knowing you have your own life jacket..... and then it wouldn't take up any space in your luggage!

 

[Boarderguy]

My straps are old and floppy so they pack flat under my bc

 

[Lorenzoid]

Well I guess you could just wear your BC onto the plane and say it's a fancy coat or that you just feel better knowing you have your own life jacket..... and then it wouldn't take up any space in your luggage!

I have seen a rebreather worn onto a plane more than once--twice, I think.

 

[kinoons]

Well I guess you could just wear your BC onto the plane and say it's a fancy coat or that you just feel better knowing you have your own life jacket..... and then it wouldn't take up any space in your luggage!

I know it’s meant as humor, but I have seen a BCD worn as a vest onto the plane a few times as well.

 

[Doc]

If it’s a ‘simple stab jacket BC’ kind of trip?

I rent one when I get there.

After many dives, they’re all the same to me. I can also examine a BC in two minutes and decide if it’s safe.