I often travel to the USA on vacation and am always looking for those special deals that are too expensive over here in Europe. On many of these trips I have purchased a 'giant scale' kit and checked it in at the airline counter as normal baggage. On one occasion, it was checked in for special handling due to the length being too long for the normal bags. Just be sure you do not exceed your maximum baggage count ( usually 2 pieces). Where you sometimes have a problem is with your local customs officer at the airport! The last kit I brought back to Germany was put through the x-ray machine and I had to identify all the parts! Fortunately I did not have to pay import and customs charges . Smile when you go through customs Good luck!