Lighters
Disposable and Zippo lighters are allowed in carry on bags.
Disposable lighters with fuel are allowed in checked bags if they adhere to the Department of Transportation exemption, which allows up to two fueled lighters if properly enclosed in a DOT approved case.
Carry On Bags: Yes
Checked Bags: Yes with restrictions
Tent Stakes & Tent Poles
Tent stakes and poles are not allowed in carry on bags. However, they are allowed in checked baggage. Any sharp objects in checked baggage should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent any injuries.
Carry on Bags: No
Checked Bags: Yes
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles are not allowed on carry on bags. However, they are allowed in checked baggage. Any sharp objects in checked baggage should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury.
Carry on Bags: No
Checked Bags: Yes
Pocket Knife
Sharp items like a pocket knife can be packed in your checked baggage, but are not allowed in your carry on bags (no matter how small they are). Any sharp objects in checked baggage should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury.
Carry on Bags: No
Checked Bags: Yes
Stove Fuel
Stove fuel is not allowed in carry on baggage or checked luggage. If you are using a stove on your thru-hike or backpacking trip you will need to pick up fuel at your destination.
Carry on Bags: No
Checked Bags: No
Battery Power Banks
Battery power banks or portable chargers containing a lithium ion battery must be packed in carry on bags. Lithium ion batteries cannot be packed in checked bags.
Carry On Bags: Yes
Checked Bags: No
Bear Spray
Bear spray is not allowed in carry on baggage or checked luggage. If you are using bear spray on your thru-hike or backpacking trip you will need to pick up at your destination.
Carry On Bags: No
Checked Bags: No
Liquids Rule
You are allowed to bring liquids, gels, creams, aerosols, and pastes in a quart sized bag in your carry on. Each container in the quart sized bag is limited to travel size of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less. If you have a larger than 3.4 ounce (100 ml) container then it must be packed in with the checked baggage. (It is the size of the container not the amount of liquid that counts.)
Carry On Bags: Yes with restrictions
Checked Bags: Yes
Summary
When you get ready to leave for a thru-hike or a backpacking trip, you have to prepare all of your gear and make sure you pack everything you need to take with you on your trip. However, if you have to fly to your backpacking destination, then you need to make sure everything you packed is allowed on an airplane, whether that be in carry on or checked baggage.
It is important that you check with the most current TSA rules prior to flying. This article should only be considered as a general guideline.