Traveling With a Kigurumi Mask
Most kigs find some sort of padded box for transporting their kigurumi masks, or smaller bags like a motorcycle helmet bag for shorter trips. This area will be expanded to include various methods.
Flying with Kig
Kigs usually try to go one of two routes.
Most if they can fit in a carry on will, some will use a motorcycle helmet bag, some will pad up their mask in regular luggage. Technically speaking a Pelican iM2275 is the largest you can fit under a plane seat, but only smaller 3/4 masks will fit.
If they can't fit it in a carry on, "Pelican" style boxes are a popular choice. The largest you can fly with on most airlines before going oversized is the Nanuk 960
Nanuk 960 is their largest model you can fly with on most airlines before going oversized
Other considerations before flying should include:
- Remove any batteries: It should be obvious but if you have a mask with batteries for fans or light-up eyes, remove them.
- Packing: Securely packing and protecting your mask is a given, but consider how you pack any objects that might increase the odds airport staff will have to open your luggage. Silicone padding for instance due to it's density can often raise a flag at the scanner, packing it towards the top makes it easier for airport staff to get to it, and get you through their checkpoint faster rather than having to dig through your luggage.
- Insurance: Many airlines will not cover damage to your luggage or mask. Consider booking via a credit card that offers free travel insurance if you have one. Most still will not cover most of the mask's cost but may at least dampen the blow.
Kigging Abroad
While it often goes without saying regardless of the hobby, do be mindful of what is socially acceptable in your destination if traveling abroad.
Japan for instance tends to be more conservative than the west regarding taking photos or videos around random businesses, or kigging publicly in general. The last thing anyone wants is to be escorted out of a business or have the police called on them for being a nuisance. Kigurumi performers with characters associated to IP or brands also tend to be far more cautious about their behavior and to not be mistaken as an official representative if appearing in any sort of public setting.