I am sure this has been covered before. If so, feel free to direct me to the link of the discussion.
I tried searching, but the relevant topics I found were over 5 years old.
I've been to Namibia in 2012 and South Africa in 2017, but did not take my own guns.

Wife and I will be flying economy/coach to JNB from DFW via ATL in late September and returning in Oct.
I'm planning on taking a TuffPak with 2 rifles: Double 9.3X74R and a bolt gun to be decided soon.
I will check everything through to JNB, have Africa Sky help me with firearms and put us up for the night, then fly to East London to spend a week with Comre Safaris.

Questions:
Does Delta charge extra for my rifle case? Is it considered one of my 2 checked bags or is it allowed extra as sporting equipment? I've read their policies but still can't tell if they only charge for the gun case if it is overweight/oversize or if they count it as one of my 2 bags.
Which airline is best round trip from JNB to ELS and back with firearms? I will be retrieving my rifles at JNB to stay a week with Infinito.
Is it a big hassle to check guns in at JNB for a domestic flight? Are additional permits required (or any other red tape)?

I'd like to take my own rifles this time. But if it is too much of a hassle or expense I can always use camp rifles again, as both PHs have indicated they had some to use.

This will be my 1st international Delta trip. Previous ones were with Lufthansa, Emirites and AA. I wanted to avoid those long layovers in Frankfort or Dubai so I decided to risk Delta.

Delta has never charged me for my TuffPak. Of course, it is my second checked bag. I carry a PacSafe backpack with my electronics, meds, etc. in it, and an SCI Convention bag with my money, passport, itinerary, etc. on the plane with me. If you individually check two bags and then your TuffPak, you will likely be charged for the TuffPak. If your TuffPak is your second checked bag and at or under 50 lbs you will not be charged. All checked bags must be at or under 50 lbs.

Did DFW-ATL-JNB-BUQ in August last year. Rifle was considered second bag and Delta was super friendly at check in.

One thing to note, Delta won’t load your rifle in ATL until your boarding pass scans and you get on the flight. If you’re watching your bags status via the mobile app, something to be aware of. Freaked me and some other hunters out.

Just make sure that you declare your firearms and ammo, then fill out, date and sign the orange/salmon colored "Unloaded Firearms" card, place it in the top of the inside of the TuffPak and lock it. I'm sure that you're familiar with the drill by now, but a reminder never hurts, as sometimes the check-in agent doesn't know or forgets.

quote:

Originally posted by Sevens:
Did DFW-ATL-JNB-BUQ in August last year. Rifle was considered second bag and Delta was super friendly at check in.

One thing to note, Delta won’t load your rifle in ATL until your boarding pass scans and you get on the flight. If you’re watching your bags status via the mobile app, something to be aware of. Freaked me and some other hunters out.

Thanks. Good to know.
We only have a 4+ hour layover in ATL so I will board as soon as they let me.
I asked because some airlines used to allow the "Sporting Goods" bags as extra, and didn't count as a second or third bag.
Delta's wording is ambiguous.
This is a purely hunting trip (2 safaris in one) with no side trips or sightseeing, so I can pack very light.
Maybe the wifey will let me use on of her bags

quote:

Originally posted by Use Enough Gun:
Just make sure that you declare your firearms and ammo, then fill out, date and sign the orange/salmon colored "Unloaded Firearms" card, place it in the top of the inside of the TuffPak and lock it. I'm sure that you're familiar with the drill by now, but a reminder never hurts, as sometimes the check-in agent doesn't know or forgets.

Never hurts to remind. I have read all the rules, but have not practiced the routine much.
This will actually only be my 2nd time to travel with rifles, 1st internationally.
The last 2 times I went to Africa I used camp rifles.
Taking my own is going to prove to be expensive, but this may be my last Africa hunting trip. House is full of taxidermy and wife and I want to see other parts of the world.

vlwtx348,

Why not save yourself some angst and just let Gracy Travel or Travel With Guns handle the whole thing for you and relax. They know all the latest rules and best routes.

Mark

+1 Take my word for it, Delta counts the firearms case as your second bag.

quote:

Originally posted by Use Enough Gun:
+1 Take my word for it, Delta counts the firearms case as your second bag.

I don't know who many times I read Delta's baggage page....and finally saw it in the last sentence of the first paragraph

Mark....if I decide to save too much trouble I'll probably just use camp guns.
Any yahoo can shoot well with their own guns
I like a challenge.

I flew delta ATL to Johannesburg last year. Your tuffpak will count as 2nd checked bag, just be sure under 50 pounds. The check through once in Johannesburg was flawless. I see you were staying with Africa Sky, they are a top notch outfit and will actually assist with your firearm permits and transfer into the country. I carried 2 rifles in my tuffpak and still had weight allowance for other things. Relax and enjoy your trip!