Flying to Canada with a bow

[shooter22]

Hey guys. I’ll be flying to Canada (Alberta) with my bow in just over a week and can’t seem to get a few things figured out.

I’m flying with WestJet and after 2 phone calls here’s what they’ve said:

1. You do not have to tell the checked bag person you have a bow in your checked bag.

2. No problem with arrows and bow in the same bag.

3. “Arrows and bows must be in a hard sided case meant for travel “.

My question:

Rather than buying a hard case, I’m really looking at buying a Sitka/Kuiu big duffel bag with the hard bottom and “interior bow case” so I can use it for more than just a bow with some gear, but according to WestJet those cases aren’t 100% hard so they can’t be used to ship a bow. But you also don’t have to notify them that your bag has a bow in it, per WestJet rules…. So would you just risk it and not tell them and fly with the Sitka/Kuiu duffel with clothes packed around the bow?

Second question: Since these are of reasonable value, do you have to contact border security or customs to bring a high value item in/out of the country?

I’m new to traveling out of the country for hunts so I really appreciate any and all comments ahead of time! Thanks!!

 

[TopherDave]

I just crossed the boarder at Beaver Creek via vehicle. I had a rifle and bow. From my experience, they don’t care about a bow. They don’t even ask. I usually tell them. It’s a lot of travel anxiety but usually doesn’t give me any troubles.

 

[n816kc]

I’ve been using a Hoyt rolling duffle for the last few years. Works great for bow, arrows and all my hunting gear. Backpack carry on for optics and electronics.