travel with fishing pole

Join Eric Church, Lainey Wilson, Lynyrd Skynyrd & Riley Green at the F&S Music Fest in South Carolina. Tickets on Sale Now!

FIELD & STREAM+

• Join 1871 Club

The 5 Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

Whether you're going on a dedicated trip, or just want to get some casts in during the family vacation, it pays to be prepared

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Travel fishing rods are made for anglers on the go. Wherever you end up, there are new waters to seek out, so the addition of a dedicated travel fishing rod to the arsenal makes sense for aspiring travel anglers. The problem for many years was the lack of quality rods to meet the carry-on restrictions for fishermen traveling on planes. Multi-piece rods were much less common and inferior to more conventional rods; they were also more likely to break.

Thankfully, advances in technology and design have changed the landscape of angling travel. Rod companies are now able to provide traveling anglers with quality options, and the best travel fishing rods fish like their one-piece counterparts. 

• Best Budget & Best Combo: Ugly Stik GX2 Travel Spinning Combo
• Best for Bass: Abu Garcia IKE Signature Series Travel Spinning Rod
• Best for Saltwater: G. Loomis Escape GLX Series
• Best Telescopic: KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod
• Best Fly Rod: Orvis Clearwater

How We Picked the Best Travel Fishing Rods

My first travel-to-fish trip happened when I was seven. We ventured north to fish for northern pike and bass in the Thousand Islands area of the St. Lawrence River. Since that first trip, my wanderlust has persisted, spanning three continents, five countries, eleven states, and three Canadian provinces. I’ve carried rods to all of those places via airline, bush plane, panga, train, car, taxi, subway and hiking boots. In between those adventures, I’ve spent a lot of time talking with fishing industry professionals about travel fishing rods and other assorted gear. Cumulatively, this distilled experience proves highly useful in evaluating travel fishing tackle. While writing this review, I considered the following attributes:

• Fishing Performance—comparative to one-piece rods
• Packability
• Materials and Construction

Best Travel Fishing Rods: Reviews & Recommendations

• Length(s): 5 feet (light power), 6 feet and 6 feet 6 inches (Both medium power) 
• Numbers of sections: 5 foot rod is 3 pieces; others are 4 pieces
• Line Rating: Light: 4-10 pound; Medium: 6-15 pound
• Strong, durable and sensitive graphite and fiberglass construction
• More economical than buying individual components
• Strong and durable Ugly Tuff stainless steel guides
• Shakespeare four-bearing spinning reel, with double anodized aluminum spool
• Cloth rod and reel travel bag offers only cosmetic protection; not suitable for checked luggage.

According to Shakespeare lore, the Ugly Stik received its now world-familiar moniker when a product management executive took one look at the first prototype blanks and said they were the ugliest he’d ever seen. 

The most updated version is more aesthetically appealing, but it hasn’t lost its rugged durability or the signature clear tip segment. The Ugly Stik Travel Combo comes in three lengths and two power options (light and medium). Each rod is fitted with a solid Shakespeare four-bearing reel with oversized bail wire for added durability. And the entire combo is at a price point that won’t break the bank. 

These travel outfits make a solid choice for those trips focused on activities other than angling where you just might be able to fit in a little fishing anyway. They also make excellent entry-level outfits for kids and fishing rods for beginners . From personal experience, I’ll also say that these rods can handle those unexpected trophies that have a knack for biting when you’re just helping the kids catch a few bluegills.

• Length(s): 7 feet
• Numbers of Sections: Four pieces—butt section, midsection and two tip sections for increased versatility
• Tip Sections: medium light—for 1/8 to 5/8 ounce lures and medium for 1/4 to 3/4 ounce lures
• Line Rating: medium light: 6-12 pound; medium: 8-14 pound
• Two tip sections offers great versatility
• Fishes like a one-piece rod
• Excellent sensitivity 
• Doesn’t include a crush-proof case for checked luggage protection

Abu Garcia was smart to partner with Mike “Ike” Iaconelli in designing this rod. Twenty plus years as a bass tournament professional coupled with his additional experience as a city fishing enthusiast provided the ideal experiential foundation for crafting top notch travel fishing rods. 

The Ike Signature Series Travel Spinning Rod is an exceptional value and an incredibly versatile fishing tool. Quality components are a significant part of the winning formula. The rod blanks are constructed from 36-ton graphite and finished rods have stainless steel guides and a high quality reel seat. The use of a continuous graphite ferrule is key to allowing this rod to fish like a one-piece rod. If all of this isn’t enough, then add in the best feature—the versatility provided with interchangeable tips. This combination allows you to fish an extended range of lures and finesse baits. Anglers looking for a more powerful bass fishing tool should consider checking out the casting rod version .

• Length(s): 7 feet in two power options, medium-light and medium
• Numbers of Sections: three
• Line Rating: Medium-light: 6-12 pound; Medium: 10-17 pound
• Multi-taper design offers a superior blend of durability and performance
• Nickel-Titanium RECOIL guides
• High quality cork grip
• Light weight
• Difficult to find stock, at the moment

Very rarely will I say that a rod has the potential to enable a competent angler to catch more fish. The G. Loomis Escape GLX rods are an exception to this rule. Hands down, these are some of the finest fishing rods made today.

G. Loomis has been making fishing rods focused on performance since 1982. I bought my first GLX rod in 1999 and I still fish it today; I think that says a lot about both the quality and durability of the GLX line of rods. Loomis’ rod building expertise has led to superior travel rods that compromise nothing in a multi-piece design. Their proprietary Multi-taper Design process strengthens potential break points while reducing material application elsewhere. The result is strength and sensitivity. The Nickel-Titanium RECOIL guides used on these rods are amazingly tough and the cork grip provides a comfortable feel over days, months and years of fishing.

These rods are amazingly lightweight, given their strength, durability and ability to subdue large saltwater fish. This lightness in hand translates to greater comfort over a long day of fishing. The last cast of the day feels as effortless as the first.

GLX Escape travel spinning rods are available in two models. The medium power model is what I consider the ideal saltwater rod, able to handle large inshore species such as permit and bull redfish. In freshwater, this rod will handle most of the salmonid species, bass and pike. The medium-light model is also a phenomenal light saltwater rod, ideal for small bonefish, puppy drum and schoolie stripers. This rod is also a great crossover rod, whether for large trout, shad or smallmouth bass.

• Length(s): Casting —7 models from 6 feet, 8 inches to 8 feet; Spinning—7 models from 6 feet, 6 inches to 8 feet
• Numbers of Sections: All models are telescopic
• Line Ratings: 6-25 pound, depending on the model
• Multiple models for diversity and flexibility
• Quality materials and construction
• Quick assembly
• Still not as good as quality multi-piece rods
• Segments can loosen after significant casting/fishing time

Though I’m not a telescopic rod fan, I see the usefulness of the concept, and the KastKing BlackHawk II is the best telescopic rod I’ve seen. These rods are particularly well suited for anglers who need the added convenience provided by a telescopic rod and aren’t logging serious hours of fishing associated with dedicated travel fishing trips. In other words, they’re ideal for when you’re on vacation and, suddenly, you have an hour or two to go fishing.

KastKing has provided an outstanding array of options, in both casting and spinning rod models. This selection is a great service for potential customers who need to find rods to fit a wide variety of angling scenarios, as well as the inevitable personal preferences.

The BlackHawk II rods are built using KastKing KastFlex 24-Ton Carbon Matrix blanks, with a solid glass tip. Snug-Fit ferrules, stainless steel line guides, graphite reel seats and comfortable EVA handles are used to create a nicely finished rod. 

For more information on telescopic rods, we have a rundown of the best telescopic options out there , as well. 

• Length:  9 feet
• Line Weight:  5
• Action:  Medium-Fast
• Pieces:  4
• Warranty:  25-Year
• A bit heavy

The Orvis Clearwater took home the best value award in our fly rod test last year and was a favorite among our group of editors and testers. For starters, the Clearwater is one of the more affordable fly rods on the market, and it can hold its own with the premium rods that often see a price tag north of a grand. This rod went head-to-head with all of the top-end models, and after a quick blind-casting test, most of our editors put the Clearwater ahead of our favorite high-end rods.

As for performance, the Clearwater throws tight loops and can reach almost as far as any other rod. It’s a bit cumbersome, and you might get tired after a full day on the water. Anglers can pick up a Clearwater rod in sizes ranging from 2-weight to 12-weight. So no matter what fish you enjoy chasing with a fly, there’s a Clearwater rod for you. And since this is a travel fishing rod story, it’s worth mentioning that the Clearwater is a four-piece rod and can be carried on any plane in a rod tube. —Ryan Chelius

Things to Consider Before Buying a Travel Fishing Rod

Travel fishing can be as exotic as a once-in-a-lifetime globetrotting adventure, or as simple as a subway trip to the city pond or lake. In both scenarios, a more compact, travel-friendly fishing outfit will make transit to the destination easier. Before buying a travel fishing rod, consider what species of fish you’re targeting, spatial limitations, mode of transport and the all important time versus money equation.

Target Species

What type or types of fish will you be chasing, and where will you be fishing? An ideal rod for panfish or trout will be outgunned and frustrating to use when targeting big stripers or redfish. Rods and their counterpart reels (meaning the reel you always use with that rod) may be great in freshwater but not up to the abuse they’ll endure in a marine environment. I like versatility in my gear but not to the point of compromising my overall enjoyment. To this end, I think it best to establish realistic expectations and fully understand what my travel rods can and cannot handle.

Spatial Limitations

The first leg of the journey is a commercial airline behemoth with spacious overhead compartments that will easily accommodate your travel rod case. But the final hop comes via a de Havilland Beaver where space is severely limited. Or, perhaps you’re hiking into the backcountry for a multi-day camping and fishing adventure. In each of these scenarios, spatial limitations are different, and in each case it’s important to identify how compact your travel rod (or rods) need to be. This is a question best asked and answered before you depart.

Mode of Transport

In a perfect world, my rods never leave my oversight when I travel to fish. But often that’s just not realistic. So, I opt to plan for the worst and hope for the best. I like when rods come with a crush-proof case. If they don’t, it’s best to invest in a specialized travel rod case that will accommodate the rod or rods you plan to take. When trips require multiple transfers, the added peace of mind alone merits the investment.

If carrying a rod or rods onto an airplane, I find out the airline’s maximum dimensions for carry-on items. If I have any doubt about carry-on options, I make sure the cased rod I’m traveling with will fit in my checked baggage.

Time versus Money 

This is an important equation that has additional variability based on a person’s disposable income and priorities. I once commented to a guiding client that I thought everyone should have one area of life where they indulge themselves. His response was, “Why just one?”

Realistically though, most anglers need to evaluate how often, and for how long, they’re likely to use a travel rod, and then factor that into their decision about which rod is best for them. An angler who might, or might not, use the rod once a year on a family vacation will want a different rod from the fisherman or woman who embarks upon one or more dedicated destination fishing trips each year.

Q: Can I carry-on a fishing pole?

According to the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), fishing rods can be carried on, as long as they meet the airline’s criteria for carry-on items. However, it’s best to always work with the specific airline you’ll be traveling with to fine-tune your carry-on planning. If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to also check with air carriers you’ll be flying with in the destination country or countries.  Adhere to their requirements, and your rod should remain in your hands from home to destination and back.

Q: How do you travel with a rod and reel?

I always want to travel with my rods in a hard, crush-proof case and my reels safely stowed in my carry-on fishing bag. Even if my travel rods are compact enough for airline carry-on, I still prefer to carry them in the protective hard case, as plans can sometimes change at the flight check-in. If I have to check the rods, at any point in the journey, I know they’ll be safe. Many people think about the flight process but don’t consider the auto travel on either end of the flight. In my experience, the transition points are when unprotected gear gets broken. Careful packing of your rods and reels extends the safety to these travel transition scenarios. In the “for what it’s worth” column, I’d rather arrive at a fishing destination without my clothes than my rods and reels. But happily this can be avoided by using a change of clothes as padding around your rods in the travel case. This way you arrive with your rods, reels and at least one spare outfit. 

Q: Can you carry-on a 4-piece fly rod?

Yes, most conventional 4-piece fly rods will meet airline criteria for carry-on luggage. I’ve traveled with 4-piece, ten foot fly rods to Chile, Mexico, England and remote north western Canada. I’ve never had any difficulty carrying-on my fly rods. That being said, it’s still always best to check with the airline in-question in advance. If you’re working with an experienced fishing travel service, they can also provide their experience traveling to your destination. For additional thoughts on this topic, check out our in-depth breakdown of the best fly rods .

Q: Can I fly with fishing lures?

According to the TSA, fishing lures are defined as “sharp fishing tackle that may be considered dangerous.” They recommend sheathing or otherwise securing hooks; the lures should then be securely wrapped and packed in your checked baggage. Based on this information, any hooks, lures or flies in your carry-on could be confiscated. For anglers, the problem with this approach is the fear of arriving at a remote fishing destination with nothing to fish. To alleviate this concern, I pack a small selection of must-have flies or lures that I put in my carry-on bag—think of it as an emergency kit. I keep the selection small enough that I can accept the loss if it’s ever confiscated. The bulk of my fishing lures are packed safely in my checked bag and include duplicates of the essentials.

Q: What is the difference between a travel rod and a standard rod?

A travel fishing rod can break down into small sections or telescope into one small piece. A normal fishing rod is often one, two, or four pieces. This makes it a bit more difficult to travel with.

Q: Are travel rods worth it?

Having a fishing rod that can break down into small pieces is definitely worth it. You don’t necessarily need a “travel fishing rod,” but rather something that breaks down into three or four pieces so it’s easier to travel with.

Best Traveling Fishing Rods: Final Thoughts

Whether you’re embarking upon a bucket-list adventure fishing trip or hoping to get in a little fishing while traveling with the family, it all depends on your tackle getting to the destination unbroken and functional. That defines why travel rods have become so important for modern anglers, and the importance extends beyond airline travel. Try carrying a one-piece rod on a busy subway and you quickly realize the value of travel rods for close-to-home fishing. 

Though many travel rods still fall short of their one-piece counterparts’ performance, advances in technologies and economies of scale have closed this gap. In some cases, the best travel fishing rods are indistinguishable from one or two-piece rods. To decide which travel rod is right for you, evaluate your target species, consider spatial limitations, mode of transportation and time versus money. Then, just add water and enjoy the fishing.

Why Trust Us

For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.

Want More of the Great Outdoors?

Stay adventure-ready with outdoor news that keeps you informed, not spammed.

Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

Jason sealock.

• Oct 09, 2023

Choosing a travel rod for anglers who like to pack light and carry a fishing rod in their luggage on every where they travel requires a little planning and view of the options and fish you think you might encounter on your travels. We reviewed a wide gamut of rods and came up with a lot of options to consider as well as some great recommendations for which fishing rods we would suggest for a lot of different types of fishing and travel.

Things like size of the rod when disassembled, number of pieces, rod case, roll or bag, type of rod, how you will transport it, whether a telescoping rod makes sense and more need to be considered before choosing the best travel rod for your fishing plans.  

Travel rods can come from 2 pieces up to 5 pieces not to mention the telescoping travel rod options out there. You might want to fit the rod in a suitcase, if so more pieces will break down into a smaller foot print. Or you might carry it with you which might give you more options for rods. You might want a hard case to protect the rod if you’re worried about TSA or some other party damaging your rods in transit. Or a rod wrap may suffice if it’s tucked inside of another hard case suitcase.

OUR TOP PICKS

• Best telescoping travel combo – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Best travel rod for bass – Buy from FishUSA
• Runner up: Daiwa ardito travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best all-around / saltwater travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best telescopic travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Runner up: Ugly stik cx2 4-piece travel combo – Buy from Basspro
• Ark rods genesis rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Zebco 33 spincast telescopic combo – Buy from Basspro
• Shimano Convergence D Travel 4-Piece Spinning Rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• St. croix triumph travel rod – Buy from Tacklewarehouse

Know Your Travel Rods

Then there are the types of rod to consider including spinning travel rods, casting travel rods, telescoping travel rods as well as travel fly rods or specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or travel trout or panfish rods. Or any combination of the aforementioned.  

If you plan to fish with light lures and light line, then a spinning travel rod might be the best option. If you plan to look for big bluegills or crappies specifically on your travels, then a long telescoping rod might make more sense or a small spinning rod like a trout rod might give you a lot of options for trout and panfish.

If you’re going for larger quarry, you will want a beefier rod that has a reel that can hold heavier line. Usually a baitcasting travel rod makes sense for bass, or big fish like walleye, pike, musky, stripers, etc.  

Specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or extra long jigging rods might be just the ticket for probing unknown waters for specific types of fishing like jigging brush for crappie or casting oversized swimbaits for trophy bass and stripers.  

Of course if you’re in to fly fishing, then a travel fly rod is hard to beat. There are some super high end and middle of the road options that are great rods that make a 9-foot fly rod fit into an over night travel bag with the travel fly rod option.

CONSIDER TELESCOPING RODS FOR TRAVEL

For some, a telescoping rod is an easy spur of the moment travel rod option to probe some nearby waters to see if they have fish available. I have buddies that keep telescoping rods in their trucks at all times and will break it out on their travels or while taking a lunch or after work on a work trip. It’s a quick and simple option.

Most of time telescoping rods are a bit lower quality. Or at least that was the case back when the only option was a low end push button spin cast combo for small panfish. There are, however, some newer options bringing this back as a real viable option for bass and panfish.

A Travel Combo Might Make More Sense

You can buy travel rods that are a rod and reel combo. This is often the case with telescoping options. But there are some better quality options in the multi-piece travel rods with a decent spinning reel. Most of the time. I want the best rod I can get and a good reel in my bag so I’m not fighting my equipment in the limited amount of time I get to fish on my travels. Especially those spur-of-the-moment unplanned fishing trips while traveling.  

But when you get to a location and wished you had a rod and reel, a decent priced telescoping rod/reel combo can get you in the fish on an unexpected hot spot quickly and easily.

You Need a Travel Rod Case, Bag or Roll

Anymore your travel rod is going to come in a hard case, a roll or a bag. Regardless you need to take care to protect the pieces of the rod or the rod while it is compartmentalized so it’s not damaged in your travels.  

A hard case might be a cloth case with a hard shell inside of it that zips closed on the end and the multiple pieces slide into little sleeves inside of it. Or it might be a hard outer shell with a soft interior that keeps your guides and blank parts protected. These are nice when you plan to carry your travel rods separate from your luggage. Or keep them in a vehicle on your travels.

A travel rod roll is just a cloth sleeve with individual pockets for each piece of the blank and then you roll it up with flap that closes on one end and tie it off with the attached ties. These can be nice for putting a rod or two into your other travel bags or a small compartment in your vehicle.

A travel bag can be just a cloth bag or a padded foam bag that houses and protects the rod simultaneously. I’m a fan of these as they keep your pieces from falling out as sometimes happens with rolls. And they keep the blank pieces with a bit of added protection. The padded bags are ideal in my opinion.  

Best Travel Rod Brands

In the freshwater space, the best travel rod makers are often synonymous with the best rod makers. Makers like Daiwa, Shimano, St. Croix, Megabass, Ark Rods, Fenwick, and others have really solid travel rod options. Others that many don’t know offer travel rods have good options like Favorite, Bass Pro, and BnM Poles.  

Here are the travel rod brands we reviewed and liked:

• Favorite Fishing
• B’n’M Poles

Having said all that, let’s take a closer look at some of our personal favorites in various travel rod categories.

Best Telescoping Travel Combo

Daiwa travel combo.

We chose the Daiwa Travel Combo as the best combo because it comes with a good reel, telescoping rod that is better than most and it’s own sling carry bag that is big enough to put several travel rods and reels in. This combo compacts down to 26 inches making it a perfect option for any trip whether it be in a car or a plane.

The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch Medium power fast action rod. It’s a solid rod and stayed extended as we fished with it. The reel is a 2-bearing Daiwa Crossfire LT 2500. Even though it’s only 2 bearings, it performed very smoothly and effortlessly with a very smooth drag. It’s a solid spinning combo and it’s offered in EVA or Cork grips.

The combo costs $149 but if you just want a good combo without messing around with pairing rods and reels, this is a quick easy choice.

Buy at TackleWarehouse

Best Travel Rod for Bass

Shimano zodias travel rod.

The fact that Shimano took one of their best rod lines and converted it into a high-end bass travel rod got me excited. And when I got the new rod in my hand, I was very impressed. I am a big fan of the original Zodias line and was so excited to see this level of quality in a 5-piece travel rod.  

This travel rod condenses down to 19 inches when packed, meaning you can literally take it anywhere. And when full assembled you have a very high quality rod full of all the features of the high end one-piece blanks. The 5-piece construction gives the rod more uniform bend than a 2-piece model would.  

It has so much power and a steady consistent load when casting. You will forget it’s a travel rod by your second cast. It’s a high end rod that just happens to be in 5 pieces. It has a CI4+ reel seat for lightweight strength and a full carbon monocoque grip which eliminates the use of EVA giving a light rod more sensitivity.

Hi-Power X construction which makes the blanks outermost layer wrapped with carbon tape form that X appearance on the blank that gives more precise actions to the rods with more strength.  

You can really lean into fish with this rod without worry. It’s one of the nicest travel rods we’ve tested.

Buy at FishUSA.com

Buy from Omnia

Runner Up: Daiwa Ardito Travel Rod

This is another high-end rod that has been brought down to a travel rod form factor. This rod comes with a very nice hard case and it breaks down to 30 inches (32 in its case). It features a V-flex ferrule joint system. These ferrules don’t require you to jam the rod pieces all the way together and then struggle to separate them. You simply push them until they snug together and you are all set. You can break down and put the rod together in seconds and be fishing as fast as you can thread your line.  

The rod has a high-modulus blank, Fuji Aluminum Oxide guides, unsanded micro-pitch blank, split Eva grip and machined nut hood. It’s a high quality rod that pairs nicely with your favorite bait caster. It comes in 7-foot medium, 7-foot medium heavy and 7-foot, 6-inch medium heavy.

Buy at BassPro.com

Best All-Around / Saltwater Travel Rod

St. croix avid trek rod.

This is a finely crafted American rod with incredible blanks offering uniform performance, strength and ultra-perceptive sensitivity. The premium cork full grip, and quality blanks featuring St. Croix’s IPC mandrels, SCII high modulus carbon, slim profile ART ferrules, Sea Guide Hero hi-grade guides with zirconia rings and stainless gun smoke frames, sea guide hook keeper, and a 15-year-transferable warranty.  

This rod can literally do it all. Going to Louisiana to fish the marshes for bass and redfish, this is your rod. Strong, light, smooth, sensitive and easy to pack. The 3-piece rod is 6-foot, 6-inch MH rod with a lot of power but great castability. This rod is a joy to fish with and you can expect it to last a long time with that kind of warranty.

Best Telescopic Travel Rod

Bass pro aventur1 telescoping rod.

I was pleasantly surprised by the Aventur1 telescoping rod. It features 6 sections but 8 guides for uniform castability and a nice line path while fighting fish. The unique guide system has floating guides as well as guides permanently affixed to the rod sections. So you won’t fight with line on the blank on this travel rod.  

The 7-foot medium power rod fished really well and I was pretty taken aback at how nice this rod fished for $59. A rod that will likely always be in my travel plans. With an RT2 graphite blank, Fuji aluminum oxide guides, Fuji reel seat, with EVA split grips and X-Wrap rubber cork butt cap, this is a pretty functional telescoping rod for travel fishing.

Best Big Swimbait Travel Rod

F5 departure travel rods.

The folks at F5 Custom Rods make some of the nicest big swimbait rods available today. These are custom made rods from blanks to handles to accents. They are often very selective in how they build rods and you usually have to get lucky enough to catch a rod on a drop. However, the F5 Departure Travel Rods are often in stock and I picked up a H and XH rod a year or so back.

These are two of my favorite big swimbait rods that I use for crankdowns like the Bull Shad 4×4 and the Toxic Whippersnappers, for glides like the 86 Baits Doomrider, KGB Swimbaits Chad Shad or the Deps Slide Swimmer 250 and of course for my jointed swims like the Bull Shad 8 inch.

The rods are both 3-piece rods and are custom made with a full extra long camo EVA handle. The ones the often sell are split grips. The rod blanks are solid. Even with three pieces I had no issues heaving big baits like the Slide Swimmer which weighs 6 1/2 ounces.

They are going to run you about $289 a piece for these rods. But I am so happy to have them because I can take a pack of my favorite big baits and a very high-end swimbait rod literally everywhere I go to chase trophies all over the country and out of the country for that matter.

Buy at F5 Custom Rods

Best Travel Rod on a Budget

Favorite fishing army geo rod.

This is an impressive rod not only for the price but for how well this 4-piece rod fishes and fights fish. We caught some really quality bass on this rod this spring and it is a legit fun spinning rod to fish. I love that I threw it in my suitcase, loaded up and went to Arkansas and broke it out and caught a bunch of nice bass that were moving shallow to spawn.  

Even my brother-in-law enjoyed fishing with this travel rod. And at $39, it’s a hard rod to pass up. The 4 pieces in their hard travel tube are 26 inches. The pieces are barely 23 inches. The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch medium-heavy spinning rod. I used it to skip Senkos around shallow cover a lot this spring. And it sets a nice hook and has a ton of backbone to land big bass. Our biggest on it was 6 pounds, 4 ounces this spring.

Buy at FavoriteUSA.com

Runner up: Ugly Stik GX2 4-piece Travel Combo

At $44 at Walmart, you can’t go wrong with this nearly indestructible travel rod. The Ugly Stik has been the staple of affordable travel rods. They can take abuse and continue to catch and land fish.  

Buy from Walmart.com

Buy at Scheels

Best Trout Travel Rod

St. croix trout series pack rod  .

For the adventurer who needs a light and packable trout rod to get to remote locations, this is the Cadillac of adventure rods. This rod says trout, but it’s a dynamite bluegill, crappie and even smallmouth rod for remote streams and creeks. It’s a beautifully built rod at only 2.9 ounces and 3 pieces, it compacts down to be no added weight in your backpack.  

I paired it with a small 1000 spinning reel and 4-pound line and really enjoyed fishing this rod a lot. It will become one of my staple creek travel rods now. It throws little baits effortlessly and had a nice backbone for such a light rod. A real joy to fish with.

Buy from FishUSA.com

Best Panfish Telescoping Rod

Bnm poles little mighty telescoping rod  .

I have to admit, I’m a little blow away by this rod. I grew up crappie and bluegill fishing with my father in Florida and Arkansas with telescoping fiberglass rods from B’n’M Poles. So I have a lot of nostalgia when it comes to these types of rod. But the new Little Mighty Rod is something special.

While it’s not technically a travel rod, it’s a telescoping rod that reaches out to 20 feet and breaks down to barely 22 inches. It looks like a bright orange track baton but it extends to a masterful reach out and touch a crappie or bluegill telescoping rod quickly.

One word of caution, be sure you extend the rod small sections first. So grab the string tab on the tip and pull it out that way. Don’t slide the sections out by dumping the open end out or you will have issues with sections getting out of order and blocking each other. Same for breaking it down. Big sections first and be sure to leave the string out when you put the cap on.  

Other than that, I enjoyed testing this rod a lot. I honestly didn’t think much of it when I got it. But after using it I can think of all sorts of places I want to take and fish with this rod. Once you get the hang of maneuvering 20 feet of rod with a fish on the end it’s a pretty fun stick to fish with.

Buy at Walmart.com

Buy from BnmPoles.com

Other Travel Rod Considerations

Ark rods genesis rods.

This was my original travel rod and I’ve put a lot of miles on it. It’s caught fish in Nebraska, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. This is a two piece travel rod that comes with a nice padded bag.

Read our full Ark Genesis 2-piece travel rod review

The rod joins together nicely and fishes so well. The very narrow blanks are durable and sensitive. I’ve caught fish just about every way you can on these rods. I have the 6-foot, 8-inch MH and the 7-foot, 6-inch MH rods and have flipped, frogged, spinnerbait fished, jigged, cranked, popped a topwater popper and burned a buzz bait with these rods. A great option that gives no sacrifice in performance in a 2-piece travel rod.

SixGill Argos Travel Rods

A very nicely made travel pack rod, the Argos Travel Rod is a 4-piece rod built on a 24T Toray Carbon blank. Comes with a 25 inch travel case. It fishes like your nicest bass rod but you can tuck it under a jacket and take it with you anywhere. The rod loads nicely on the cast and has enough back bone with it’s 7-foot MH frame to fight any size bass you might tangle with. A very nice travel rod option.  

Buy from Sixgillfishing.com

Zebco 33 Spincast Telescopic Combo

This is an affordable option at $25 but it’s not made to handle big fish in my opinion. It’s a great rod for catching panfish around a campsite, or of the dock on vacation. But it’s not made for fishing for larger fish. The rod bends easily at the tip under load and the line cuts across the rod to the next guide. So just be cautious with bigger fish on this setup. But for $25, you can catch the heck out of a bunch of panfish with this setup.

Buy at Amazon

Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod

I haven’t had a chance to review the latest offerings from Hardy yet, but one of my all time favorite travel rods is my Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod. It’s a 9-foot, 5-weight rod. It is the perfect pack rod for hiking into remote streams and chasing fish on the fly. This is the Ferrari of travel rods in my opinion. Everything is first class from the aluminum case, styled bag, ferrule covers, and beautiful craftsmanship on the Sintrix 440 blank.  

Buy from Hardyrodsandreels.com

Shimano Convergence Travel Rod

This 7-foot, 4-piece rod is another great do-it all travel rod. It’s a great rod for a lot of different species and lures in that 1/4 ounce to 3/4 ounce size. It breaks down to 25 inches so it will fit in almost all your bags and it comes in a nice hard case with a shoulder strap if you want to carry it on your back while you hike. It’s very well made and fished nicely with a variety of reels.

Spinning rod

Casting rod.

Buy at Tackle Warehouse

St. Croix Triumph Travel Rod

This work-horse travel rod serves a ton of different purposes. It’s 6-foot, 6-inch size makes it a great size for tight quarters. I loved fishing some small streams near the house with this rod. A fun little rod for wading creeks or winging around on bigger waters on your travels. It’s small form factor of 24 inches makes it a great pack rod to keep in your vehicle or throw in your bag on long trips. It’s a very nice blank divided into 4 pieces. It’s strong, sensitive and light. A great travel version of their very popular Triumph line.  

Wired2fish Travel Rod Comparison Chart

We review a ton of products and while they don’t always make the best of categories there are a lot of good rods to choose from that can get the job done. We try to give you as many options as possible while identifying some that we think stand out in the array of options. The goal with our guides is to help you be as informed and aggregate as much helpful information and personal experience into helping you with your fishing gear decisions.  

Here is a quick rundown of a lot of travel rod / telescoping rod options:

Currently working as Senior Advisor to Wired2fish. Former COO and Publisher, Jason Sealock came to Wired2fish shortly after inception in January of 2010. Prior to that he was the Editor-in-Chief of FLW Outdoors Magazines. He worked up from Associate Editor to Photo Editor and finally Editor in Chief of three magazines FLW Bass, FLW Walleye and FLW Saltwater. Now he sets the content direction for Wired2fish while also working directly with programmers, consultants and industry partners. Sealock has been an avid angler for the better part of 40 years and has been writing and shooting fishing and outdoors content for more than 25 years. He is an expert with fishing electronics and technologies and an accomplished angler, photographer, writer and editor. He has taught a lot of people to find fish with their electronics and has been instrumental in teaching these technologies to the masses. He's also the industry authority on new fishing tackle and has personally reviewed more than 10,000 products in his tenure. He has a 30-year background in information technologies and was a certified engineer for a time in Microsoft, Novell, Cisco, and HP. He mostly fishes for bass and panfish around the house. He has, however, caught fish in 42 of the 50 states in the US as well as Costa Rica, Mexico, and Canada and hopes to soon add Finland, Japan, Africa and Australia to his list.

Breaking News

Pittsburgh angler catches state record yellow perch, johnson scores wire-to-wire win at b.a.s.s. nation qualifier at arkansas river, 9- pound and 13-pound bass caught in tennessee, vexus® boats launches tackle warehouse bonus program for high school and college anglers, gsm outdoors acquires mid-america rod company, skeet reese opens reese fishing, saudi investors to create new fishing tournament league, james watson suspended from mlf tournaments, recent posts.

When to Fish Deep During the Spawn

Xtratuf Footwear BOGO 50% Off Weekend Flash Deal

Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Casting Combo Review

Flambeau Outdoors NextGen Tackle Box Giveaway Winners

Ascend 133X Tournament Kayak Review

Bait Finesse System Trout Fishing Guide

$30 Off Lew’s Speed Spin Spinning Combo

Catch More Spring Bass By Cranking the Dirt

FishUSA Fly Fishing Package Giveaway

• svg]:stroke-primary"> 735K
• svg]:stroke-primary"> 133K
• svg]:stroke-primary"> 54.1K

The Best Travel Fishing Rods of 2024

By Pete Robbins

Updated on May 24, 2023 5:36 PM EDT

13 minute read

Best for Bass

Abu garcia i.k.e. signature series travel casting rod, best budget, shakespeare ugly stik gx2 travel spinning combo, best premium, megabass triza travel rod.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

Travel fishing rods are easy to pack for a trip, and the good ones fish like a one-piece rod. Over the past several decades, rods have gotten longer because more length typically equals better casts and more leverage on big fish. For example, the 5-foot 6-inch pistol grips that dominated bass fishing into the 1980s have been replaced almost entirely by rods that are 7 feet and up. Unfortunately, luggage costs and rules have also exploded at this same time, meaning that it’s not always feasible to take an oversized 7- or 8-foot rod tube on distant trips. That’s doubly true if you’ll be getting on a floatplane or your luggage size is otherwise restricted.

Travel rods aren’t solely for air travel, though. If you’re an urban angler getting on a subway, they may be your best choice. If you want something to keep in your car or backpack in case you pass by a tasty-looking fishery, they’re prime choices. In the past, the options were often limited. Either manufacturers took an existing blank and added rudimentary ferrules, or it was a bargain basement combo that required a staple remover to get out of the package and that couldn’t stand up to farm pond bluegills. Fortunately, many manufacturers have recognized the need for better travel tools, and they’ve heeded the call. 

I get to do a lot of traveling with fishing rods as a writer and host of exotic fishing trips. I’ve been to the Alaskan wilderness, through the Amazon jungle, and on every major bass lake in the U.S. and Mexico. Those destinations require a plane ride, and while I don’t always pack multi-piece rods, it’s given me the chance to test out many of the best. Here are my picks for the best travel fishing rods.

• Best for Bass: Abu Garcia I.K.E. Signature Series Travel Casting Rod
• Most Innovative: Daiwa Ardito-TR Travel Casting and Spinning Rod
• Best for Inshore: Falcon Traveler Coastal Spinning Rod
• Best Budget: Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Travel Spinning Combo
• Best Finesse: Wild Side Light Spinning Rod
• Best Premium Casting: Megabass Triza Travel Rod  
• Most Versatile :  Toadfish Travel Spinning Rod
• Best Bait Finesse :  KastKing Kestrel 3-Piece Rods
• Best Premium Spinning : Shimano Zodias 5-Piece Travel Spinning Rods

How I Tested the Best Travel Fishing Rods

I’ve taken these travel rods all over the globe and all over the country, fishing for species both exotic and mundane. More importantly, though, I’ll admit that I’ve abused them. They’ve been shoved in suitcases, walked through dense forests, and used for lures outside of their supposed range. That’s the nature of the travel game. Coming home from Mexico, officials forced me to check a carrying case that I’d carried on for the trip South of the Border, and my rods returned in one piece—or rather in their original configurations of multiple pieces. When possible, though, I like keeping them at my side, and I’m usually able to do so. It also enables me to bring a rod and reel or the occasions when I travel for a non-fishing purpose but might be able to sneak away to make a few casts.

Best Travel Fishing Rods: Reviews & Recommendations

Key Features

• Length: 7 feet
• Packed Length: 28 inches
• Three pieces
• Comes with both medium (1/4-3/4 ounce lures) and medium-heavy (3/8-1 ounce) tip sections
• Soft travel case included
• Versatility means you only need to carry one rod
• Comfortable E.V.A. handle
• Great value
• Included case isn’t crushproof; should not be checked on airlines

Abu Garcia, worked with Bassmaster Classic champion Mike “Ike” Iaconelli, to design the Ike Signature Series Travel Rod. Ike is known for his wins on the pro bass circuit, but he’s also known for his urban angling adventures. Traveling by bus, bike, plane, and train to those urban fishing spots were the inspiration for his travel rod. 

The best feature of the rod is the included interchangeable tip sections that provide different actions. They are a tremendous value, since the rod doesn’t sacrifice on components. They include 36-ton graphite blanks, stainless steel guides, and a premium Fuji reel seat. Ike carried this rod worldwide on his television fishing exploits for a wide range of species, but his heart remains with bass, and that’s where this rod excels, for everything from soft plastics to crankbaits to spinnerbaits . Anglers who expect to use finesse presentations can buy the spinning version.

• Length: 7 feet 
• Handle converts from spinning to baitcasting
• Three-piece rod, includes six total pieces 
• Lure Weights: ¼ to 1 ounce 
• Extreme versatility
• Handles wide range of lures
• Sensitive yet strong graphite construction
• Included case not crushproof; should not be checked on airlines

Daiwa has built a rod—and specifically, a rod handle—that will accommodate both spinning and baitcasting reels when configured appropriately. That means you don’t have to choose one or the other when you’re limited to one travel rod. What’s most impressive is that they’ve somehow developed a blank that doesn’t feel awkward in either role. It includes X45 graphite construction that prevents blank twisting and truly performs like a one-piece. I took this rod to Zambia for tigerfish, where it performed admirably with a baitcasting reel, and then used it at home to skip Senkos under docks with a spinning rod. It’s not truly a finesse spinning rod, but could handle light baits with plenty of backbone to extract hard-pulling bass from gnarly cover.

• Medium action
• Lure weight: ¼ to ½ ounce 
• Bargain priced
• Durable full cork handle
• High-quality components
• Some anglers may not like the moderate action

If you’re chasing redfish or speckled trout on the Gulf Coast, or bonefish and snook in the Everglades or Keys, you need a rod that will simultaneously make pinpoint presentations that also has the heft to muscle outsized, super-strong fish away from cover. This rod is light but mighty and fits the bill. The Coastal Traveler series also has a baitcasting model in the lineup. They’ll both do double-duty in freshwater, although Falcon also provides Lowrider series travel rods for that purpose. All of them include cork handles (full in the case of the Coastal, split-grip on the Lowriders), Fuji K-Frame tangle-free guides, and a blank through reel seat. All come with a crushproof, three-section Cordura-coated case with the rod’s specifications printed on the outside.

• Lengths: 5 feet 6 inches and 6 feet 6 inches 
• Comes with matching reel
• Three or four pieces
• Rod and reel packaged together for the price of one
• Four-bearing spinning reel
• Strong guides will stand up to braided line
• Cloth rod and reel travel bag cannot be checked

The Ugly Stik brand has been synonymous with strength and value for decades, and Shakespeare continues to refine the products while keeping them at rock bottom prices. These three spinning combos—one light action, two medium action—all come with a four-bearing reel and rods that combine graphite and fiberglass construction. While the cloth carrying case may not be crushproof, this combo will stand up to just about anything you can dish out. That makes it a great option for kids or beginners, but you’ll be surprised at the wide range of species it can handle across the globe without any fear of failure.

• Length: 6 feet 3 inches
• Packed Length: 22 inches
• Action: Light
• Five pieces
• Ultra compact 
• Innovative ferrules maintain one-piece feel
• High modulus graphite

Wild Side’s U.S. distributor Arundel Tackle claims that this rod is “made for the overhead bin, NOT baggage claim.” It comes with a rectangular carrying case that weighs a mere 2 ounces and will slide easily into your carry-on. More importantly, they’ve somehow taken a five-piece rod and eliminated any traditional multi-piece imprecision. That might be because they use refined spigot ferrules that do a solid job of maintaining a one-piece flow. This has become a go-to Ned Rig rod when I’m bass fishing at home, but it has so many other uses where it’ll excel. These include stream trout fishing, pan fishing, and light saltwater use. The high-quality cork and E.V.A. split handle are comfortable for all day fishing and match up with any lightweight spinning reel.

Best Premium: Megabass Triza Travel Rod  

• Lengths (casting): 6-feet, 6-inches; 6-feet, 8-inches; 6-feet, 9-inches; 7-feet; 7-feet, 2-inches   
• Available in five baitcasting and two spinning models
• Lure Weights: 1/32 ounce to 3 ounces
• Wide range of actions for a full range of techniques
• Built one at a time for attention to detail
• Gorgeous peacock wood reel seats and hand-drawn graphics

Megabass makes everything from the best swimbaits to some of the nicest production rods available. The Triza Travel Rod has typical Megabass quality in a rod that fits in a backpack. Megabass has a lot of experience making travel rods for their Japanese customers, who are often more constrained in terms of space and transportation, and therefore demand them. These premium travel rods are now widely available in America and cover just about every bass fishing technique under the sun—while at the same time being superior for some saltwater and multi-species use. They’re a gorgeous piece of art that would look great displayed, but they’re too solid to sit on the sidelines. Megabass claims they are constructed to their “Triangle” ideal—with a tip section that maximizes tension, a belly section that maximizes torque, and a butt section that maximizes torsional rigidity. These are workhorses that present like show horses.

Most Versatile:  Toadfish Travel Spinning Rod

• 7 feet 2 inches
• Medium/Medium heavy action
• Interchangeable mid and tip sections
• Incredible versatility
• Kigan tangle free guides
• Extremely durable
• Included case is strong but quite heavy

This rod comes with one handle section, two mid-sections, and two tip sections, allowing for five different configurations, making it the most versatile travel rod on the market. That uniqueness is also a huge bonus if you slam a section in a car door or otherwise break one – you lose a bit of that trademark versatility, but you’re not completely out of luck. What’s also nice is that it comes with extremely durable components, including soft-touch rubber handle inlays and a handle that will stand up to the most you can dish out, including saltwater exposure. It’s fairly sensitive for a five-piece rod, and the spigot ferrules hold well. The case may be heavy, but you can check it through on the airlines without worrying about damage.

Best Bait Finesse:  KastKing Kestrel 3-Piece Rods

• Light-fast action
• IM8 ultra-high modulus graphite blank
• Extremely reasonable price
• One of the few rods in its category
• Very sensitive IM8 high modulus graphite blank
• No case included

The biggest problem with many travel rods is that they’re too vanilla – understandably made to cover a wide range of conditions and species. That’s fine if you just want one for random use, but it doesn’t help anglers with specific needs. KastKing has entered the market with a lot of BFS options and wisely chose to build a three-piece rod in that category. It can handle lures as light as 1/10 ounce, yet, with a balanced baitcasting reel, still has the winch-like power that spinning cannot provide. The rod comes with quality components, including American Tackle Ti forged guides with aluminum oxide Duralight rings, so whether you’re chasing panfish, Alaskan trout, stream smallmouths, or light saltwater species, it’s meant to stand up to a beating. In Asia and Japan, manufacturers have historically made a wider range of multi-piece rods than they do in North America, so it’s a good sign that KastKing is willing to take a calculated risk on this specialty stick.

Best Premium: Shimano Zodias 5-Piece Travel Spinning Rods

• Medium-Light – Fast
• 1/8 – 7/16 ounce lures
• CI4+ Reel Seat maximizes ergonomic comfort
• Fuji guides hold up to the rigors of travel and different kinds of line
• At 5 pieces, incredibly transportable
• Rod case not included

Shimano and brand partner G.Loomis have dipped in and out of the travel rod market for years, producing some top-notch products. Shimano’s bargain-priced Convergence Series is a great value and quality product, but the Zodias will fill the needs of more demanding anglers. It looks and feels like an expensive JDM product, and despite the multiple ferrules functions like a one-piece rod. I liked the Carbon Monocoque grip, and felt that it enhanced sensitivity, even with light lines. It’s also available in a baitcasting rod if that’s your stylistic preference, or if you want to use heavier lines on bigger fish.

While most standard rods are one or possibly two pieces, most travel rods are three or more pieces. Alternatively, they may be telescoping. Either way, they “collapse” or “compress” or “break down” to lengths that will fit in a suitcase or in a small separate carrying case. That makes them easy to take on a plane or stuff under the seat of your vehicle for impromptu fishing adventures.

Many anglers believe that one-piece rods are superior in all instances and will do whatever they can to take them on long-distance fishing trips. Of course that is possible, and there are hard-sided carrying cases that extend up to nearly 10-feet long to transport them. One problem, however, is that the airlines are increasingly restrictive on checking such bags. Even when they allow it, they may be costly. Furthermore, rough baggage handling may result in destruction of or damage to your valuable gear.

Typically commercial airlines will not allow you to carry full-sized rods on airplanes, but they’ll often allow you to carry properly-cased and appropriately-sized travel rods on board. In fact, the T.S.A. guidelines explicitly state that fishing rods are permitted in carry-on and checked bags but note that “passengers should check with the airline to confirm that the fishing rod fits within size limitations for carry-on items.” Some foreign airports and foreign carriers will not allow the same, so be sure to check ahead of time and carry a crushproof case that can be checked if necessary.

Things to Consider When Buying a Travel Fishing Rod

What will you be fishing for.

The same travel rod that excels for panfish might be a liability chasing big saltwater fish in the surf. Today there are enough specialized options that you should be able to cover most extremes and many technical presentations. The trouble comes when you need to do double duty. That may require the purchase of a second rod, or perhaps even making compromises—using a single rod that is a jack of all trades but a master of none.

How compact must it be?

Fewer ferrules or connectors usually (but not always) means better performance. However, the ideal travel or “pack” rod will fit into a small case, which may or may not need to fit within your suitcase. Take careful measurements of your possible dimensions, adding a slight bit for the padding of the case and any internal rod sock that protects your tool.

How will I carry my travel rod?

The best possible scenario is to keep your rod or rods with you at all times, in a padded, crushproof case. That reduces the chances of loss and breakage. However, in the instance that you need to check it, make sure it fits in your other luggage or run the risk of paying a surcharge. Many of these rods come with tubes or cases. Some are better than others, so don’t hesitate to invest in an aftermarket product for peace of mind.

Why Trust Outdoor Life?

Since 1898, OL has been a leading authority in testing and reviewing hunting gear, fishing tackle, guns and shooting equipment, and much more. We have more than a century-long history of evaluating products, and we’re now bringing that expertise to online reviews. Our editors are experienced outdoorsmen and women, and most importantly, we’re trained journalists. We prioritize field testing and objective data when reviewing products. We conduct interviews with gear manufacturers and engineers as well as outdoor experts so that our readers have an understanding of how and why a product works—or doesn’t.

Advertising does not influence our gear reviews and it never will. While we always focus our coverage on standout products—because we want our readers to be aware of the latest and greatest gear—we also cover the flaws and quirks of any given product.

Final Thoughts on the Best Travel Fishing Rods

As I’ve amassed an arsenal of travel rods over the past several years, I’ve seen a shift in my thinking. Previously, I reserved them exclusively for exotic travel to places like Zambia, Mexico, Brazil, and Alaska, and then relegated them to a garage shelf when I returned home. Increasingly, however, I’ve found myself using some of them in my day-to-day angling, in places where I could still take a 7- or 8-foot one-piece rod but now choose instead to take the multi-piece tool. 

Many of the more inexpensive multi-piece rods are still notably less fluid than their one-piece counterparts, but that’s not always the case. Furthermore, if you’re a one-piece snob, you may be surprised at how refined these options have become.

Top 10 Best Travel Fishing Rods 2024 Review (Buyer’s Guide)

• by Lance Wilkins
• October 2, 2020
• 18 minute read

One of the best things about fishing is the environments that it takes you to. The best fishing is found in the most pristine environments.

Whether it’s the mountains of Patagonia or the flats of Seychelles, traveling to fish has no downsides. 

Here we take a look at some of the best travel fishing rods around…

Okuma Citrix Travel Spinning Rod

• Light but durable
• Great price for the quality

Goture Xceed 4 Piece Travel Fishing Rod

• Great for saltwater and freshwater
• Lightweight

Editor’s Choice

Daiwa Ardito-TR Travel Spinning Rod

• Great balance of action and power
• Excellent for small-medium species

Not all of us will have caught the fishing travel bug yet, but once it gets you, it bites down hard.

To fish in these magical locations, you’re going to need a fishing travel rod and reel to take with you, and picking the right one is not so easy. Especially considering all the different types of fishing rods out there.

This article will save you valuable time and give you everything you need to make the right buy.

In this article...

The Best From The Review

Choosing a fishing rod is a big decision, here are our top three choices from the lineup, each one in its own category.

This is so you can have a variety to choose from depending on your needs.

An excellent travel pole that can handle pretty much anything you throw it at. It has the sensitivity for trout fishing and the power for burley jacks, making it an ideal all-around travel pole for most species.

The all-round best travel fishing rod for me is the Okuma Citrix.

Designed with a lot of thought, the Citrix has the sensitivity for small species while having the power to handle some big saltwater fish too.

It’s light, durable, casts excellently, and has thoughtful features like braid-ready guide inserts.

A quality all-round travel rod with minimal flaws for such a low price.

I think the best travel fishing rod, if you’re on a budget, is the Goture Xceed.

It’s light, strong, sensitive, durable, and can handle anything from light freshwater to medium saltwater species.

The quality for the price is almost unbeatable, and it comes with a lifetime guarantee. It ticks every box.

Editor’s Choice

An awesome rod to cast with, and once your fishing hooks snag a big catch, you’ll immediately notice the power that comes with it.

The best travel fishing rod, in my opinion, is the Daiwa Ardito.

The Ardito takes things to another level compared to the rest.

Its performance outdoes the others in terms of casting distance, action, power, and sensitivity.

It’s a true all-rounder that’ll have you catching bass today and tarpon the next without any concerns.

Our Best Travel Fishing Rods

Here are all the top reels we reviewed.

Each one’s a winner in its own right and they all have their different strengths.

St Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod

A 4 piece travel rod weighing just 4.9 oz. that delivers excellent performance in both casting and sensitivity.

St Croix has made their name by making affordable and high-quality fishing rods, and the St Croix Triumph Travel Series is their best travel fishing rod.

This is a 4 piece travel rod weighing just 4.9 oz. that delivers excellent performance in both casting and sensitivity.

The St Croix Triumph travel rod’s low weight means you’ll be able to keep casting all day without your arm feeling any tiredness.

You’ll happily make it to that golden hour at sunset when the fish usually turn on and start feeding heavily. 

This St Croix triumph travel rod is made from premium SCII graphite, giving you excellent performance, sensitivity, and durability at a great price.

You’ll cast this rod like a dream and even better if you go with the casting rod variant.

The St Croix Triumph feels like a one-piece and has the sensitivity to feel every bite with the backbone to make a decent hook set when fishing with it. 

It comes with aluminum oxide guides to reduce friction when casting and a Fuji DPS reel seat made of graphite with stainless steel hoods. 

The reel seat does tend to come loose and your reel can drop out if you’re not consistently checking it. 

Great with the Right Reel

When paired with the right spinning reel, the St Croix fishing rod and reel combo will be an excellent set-up for small to medium-sized fish but it might be a little light for larger species, and you may need a heavier rod if you plan on going after tarpon for example. 

The St Croix Triumph comes with a padded nylon case and the 4 piece design makes it easy to travel with, but the case is nylon and padded rather than being hard, so you may have to buy a rod tube.

• Model: TRS66MF4
• Power Rating: Medium
• Length: 6’6”
• Line: 6-12 lbs
• Lure Weight: ⅛-½ oz
• Action: Fast
• A great balance of action and power for great casting and sensitivity
• Made from quality graphite that is durable and will last
• Excellent for all small to medium-sized species
• Comes with a 5-year warranty
• Packs down small into 4 pieces for portability
• The reel seat can loosen and drop your reel at important moments
• The spinning rod is a little light for larger fish
• Comes without a hard tube and only a padded nylon case

CAPACI Travel Spinning Rod

Cast amazingly well and are incredibly sensitive to any bite that comes along thanks to the fast action.

Capaci are quite unknown in the fishing rod/reel market and have yet to make a name for themselves.

So far, they are doing pretty well at making what we fishermen need in terms of quality but affordable rods. 

Available Options

This travel fishing rod of theirs comes in both a casting rod or spinning model, so for anyone who uses a spinning reel or a baitcasting reel, there is a model for you. The model we have chosen below is their spinning travel rod. 

This fishing rod kit is made from 24-ton carbon, a top material, and it’s surprising considering the low price as carbon is usually more expensive.

These rods cast amazingly well and are incredibly sensitive to any bite that comes along thanks to the fast action.

They are also extremely light fishing rods, and the low weight is something that’ll help keep you fishing for hours on end. 

The fishing rod breaks down into 6 pieces, making it awesome to travel with as the rod length is just 45cm when put away.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a travel rod case and you’ll need to buy one to travel with it securely.

You might also find it tricky getting the eyes to line up when connecting all 6 pieces as there are no alignment marks on the rod to help you out.

An awesome rod to cast with, and once you hook up to a big fish, you’ll immediately notice the power that comes with it.

Daiwa are one of the most trusted spinning fishing rod and reel manufacturers the world over.

They have built a loyal following in the fishing industry and make some of the best travel fishing rods out there.

Their Ardito might be the best travel spinning rod they make and covers everything from trigger fishing to casting and spinning. 

The fishing rod below is part of their best travel fishing rod series and is a true all-rounder.

It has the gusto for some tarpon fishing in the Florida keys while being light enough to enjoy catching some bass with too, covering all the species and environments we need it to. 

It’s made from Daiwa’s exclusive HVF (High Volume Fiber) graphite, which keeps it light while ensuring maximum performance.

The blank on these travel spinning rods is specifically designed to reduce twist giving the rod extra strength and flexibility to handle some large creatures.

It’s an awesome, sturdy rod to cast with, and once you hook up to a big fish, you’ll immediately notice the power that comes with it.

The fishing rod comes in 3 pieces and a hard travel tube is also included. It’ll fit in the overhead or in your check-in luggage with your fishing accessories, and is easy to travel with. 

The only downside about this rod is the reel seat.

You need to continually tighten it while you’re fishing to make sure the fishing rod and reel combo stay together.

The last thing you want is your spinning reel by your feet while fishing or fighting a fish. 

• Model: ARDT763MHFS-TR
• Power Rating: Medium-heavy
• Length: 7’6”
• Line: 8-17 lbs
• Lure Weight: ¼-1 oz.
• Comes with a rod tube for safe travels
• Great blank construction, giving flexibility and reducing twist for extra strength
• Excellent action and responsiveness for a multi-piece rod, like a one-piece
• Great for saltwater species as well as freshwater, a true all-rounder
• Comes with an awesome 5-year warranty
• The reel seat needs constant tightening or you spinning reel may fall off

Fiblink Triomphante 3-Piece Spinning Rod

The combination of the length, power, action, and the 30-50lb fishing line rating stacks up to give you a rod that can handle boat, inshore, or surf fishing.

Fiblink are getting a name for themselves in the fishing rod and reel market.

If you need a travel rod specifically for fishing the ocean or for large freshwater species, then the Fiblink Triomphante has got your back.

Unlike other spinning rods, it’s a little too heavy for trout or bass fishing, but if it’s big cats or sailfish you’re after, this might be the best travel spinning rod to do it with.

The model below is ideal for surf fishing , boat fishing, and inshore fishing.

The combination of the length, power, action, and the 30-50lb fishing line rating stacks up to give you a rod that can handle almost any ocean species out there. 

The rod is made from solid carbon fiber and is tough as nails so you can put the pressure you need on those large species.

The reel seat and guides are all geared up for survival at sea too. Made from stainless steel and aluminum alloy, they are excellent at batting away corrosion. 

However, the guides’ inserts aren’t the best and tend to pop out from time to time

This is relatively easy to solve if they aren’t cracked; just a bit of super glue and re-inserting them should fix them up fine. 

In terms of travel, the Triomphante breaks down into 3 pieces and arrives at your door in a classy rod tube.

It’s a great packed size and perfect for any kind of transportation.

• Power Rating: Heavy
• Length: 8 ft
• Line: 30-50 lbs
• Lure Weight: 2-8 oz
• Quite a serious saltwater rod for handling large species
• Aluminum alloy & stainless steel reel seat for awesome corrosion resistance
• Strong carbon fiber construction while being light and sensitive
• Packs down into a nice rod tube for travelling
• Stainless steel guides to handle the saltwater
• A bit too heavy to enjoy light freshwater fishing
• Guide inserts on the rod can pop out easily

Goture Xceed

The Goture Xceed is a little bit too good to be true as a travel fishing rod.

I’m struggling to see how they have made such a quality all-round travel rod with minimal flaws for such a low price.

And then you find out the Xceed comes with a lifetime guarantee as well.

It baffles me, but I’m happy about it!

The model we have chosen below is the ideal set-up for fishing trout in the mountains one day and snook in Florida the next.

If you’re looking for the one rod to travel the world with, this might be it. But in case you’re looking for more trout rods, check out this guide .

Made from a 30-ton carbon blank, the rod is sensitive, strong, powerful, light, and casts like a dream.

You’ll be able to get your lure just where you want it to be, feel the bite, have the stiffness for the hook set, and the power to land a big fish.

We can’t ask for much more can we.

The Xceed is a 4 piece rod and comes delivered in its own protective tube.

It’s an ideal size to travel with, and you can happily fit it in your suitcase or in the overhead.

There is just one drawback to this rod, for a medium-heavy rod it does feel a little too bendy for some, and could do with a little stiffening up.

• Model: Xceed80MH-S
• Line: 10-20 lbs
• Lure Weight: ¼-1 oz
• Action: Medium-fast
• Comes with a lifetime guarantee at an awesome price
• Light for fatigue-less all-day casting on the water
• Strong but sensitive thanks to the carbon blank and action
• Great for use in saltwater and freshwater
• It has some serious lifting power
• It can feel a little bit bendy for some

JEKOSEN Travel Spinning Rod

Made from a solid carbon blank, making it both light and durable, while also being strong and sensitive. It has the power for some large inshore species and the delicacy for some smaller freshwater fish.

Jekosen are another budget manufacturer who seems to be knocking out some quality gear for a low price.

Their 4-piece travel pole has been compared to a one-piece, although that is probably pushing it, it’s still a good sign.

The Jekosen comes in both a spinning and casting rod model.

The model below is for spinning and is an ideal setup for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

It has the power for some large inshore species and the delicacy for some smaller freshwater fish. 

It’s made from a solid carbon blank, making it both light and durable, while also being strong and sensitive.

The guides use frictionless ceramic inserts to assist with how far you can cast and the pole has a lovely action. 

The tip section is a little delicate and you’ll need to treat it with care, in fact, it’s so delicate that many an angler has had the tip snap within the first 10 hours of use.

It’s hard to know if this is a user error, but it seems to have happened enough to be a genuine worry.

• Line: 12-25 lbs
• Lure Weight: 0.35-0.88 oz.
• Great all-round rod for salt and freshwater species
• Light & sensitive but has some backbone for a solid hook set
• Excellent value for such quality
• Comes with a great travel tube
• The tip is pretty thin and will need a delicate touch
• In some cases, the tips can break within hours of use

KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod

An all-round pole that will be great for both freshwater and saltwater species. It sits in that ideal middle ground that means it can do almost everything.

The one and only telescopic rod to make the cut is the KastKing Blackhawk II.

I tend to avoid telescopic rods like the plague as I was bitten as a child, but I thought this one was worth talking about. 

It somehow doesn’t do the one thing I hate about a telescopic rod, collapse while you’re fishing.

Thank you KastKing for making a telescopic rod that stays together, so you can focus on fishing instead of re-building your pole and untangling everything all the time. 

The Blackhawk II collapses down to a third of its length and comes in all sorts of models, from casting and spinning to inshore, so there is certainly a version for you.

The model I have chosen below is an all-round pole that will be great for both freshwater and saltwater species. It sits in that ideal middle ground that means it can do almost everything. 

The Blackhawk pole is made from a carbon blank and is therefore light, durable, and powerful.

It comes with an excellent seat for your reel that fully locks down, making sure your reel isn’t going anywhere.

Once set up, it casts well and you’ll feel every bite thanks to the medium-fast action, missing a fish will only be due to angler error not equipment failure. 

The telescopic rod does feel a little too bendy for a medium-heavy though and there are no markers to help you align the eyes.

And even though it doesn’t collapse, the eyes tend to twist around while you’re fishing, so you’ll have to constantly re-align them.

• Great quality for a telescopic pole and priced very reasonably
• Good spinning reel seat that locks down hard
• The sections don’t collapse, great for a telescopic pole
• Excellent performance in casting and sensitivity for a telescopic
• Made from quality carbon with a glass tip for durable sensitivity
• Feels a little light for a medium-heavy, more medium
• Can be a little tricky to get the eyes straight on set up
• Guides twist while fishing and need correcting

An excellent travel pole that can handle pretty much anything you throw it at. It has the sensitivity for trout and the power for burley jacks, making it an ideal versatile fishing rod for most species.

The Okuma Citrix is a great travel fishing rod that can handle pretty much anything you throw it at.

It has the sensitivity for trout and the power for burley jacks, making it an ideal all-around travel pole for most species.

Made from an SCII graphite blank, the pole is durable and is balanced beautifully to give you great castability. The overall construction makes it quite light, and allows you to fish tirelessly all the way through to dusk. 

The guides on the Citrix use zirconium inserts that are designed for use with braid. This is the first pole in the review to have braid-ready guides, and since most of us use a braided fishing line these days, it gets extra points for that.

The zirconium reduces friction for both brain and mono, giving you the extra casting distance you’ll need in some situations. 

The tip of the Citrix has been labeled as a little delicate for some, but not for all.

There are stories of the Citrix handling large cobia and jacks without any issues, but then there are also reports of the tip snapping on a snag.

I would put it down to angler error but it’s worth noting.

• Model: CIT-S-724M
• Length: 7’2”
• Lure Weight: ¼ – ⅝ oz.
• Zirconium guide inserts are ideal for use with braid
• High-quality graphite makes it light but durable
• Ideal for small and medium-sized fish from bass to snook
• Packs down small for easy packing and travel
• Comes with a protective case
• Sensitive enough to feel the most subtle bites
• The tip can snap if you’re too bolshy with it

KastKing Crixus Travel Fishing Rods

The Crixus travel pole gives you amazing quality for a very reasonable price.

KastKing are in the game of making fishing affordable, and somehow come out with quality spinning travel rods that mean anyone can afford to fish if they want to.

The Crixus travel pole follows this trend and gives you amazing quality for a very reasonable price.

The Crixus is made from IM6 graphite and is very light.

If you fish long and hard you’ll know that every ounce counts when it comes to how tired your arm and wrist get.

The Crixus has got your back in this regard, and you will be able to keep casting and casting with minimal fatigue. 

The model chosen below is again in the middle ground. It’s sensitive enough for smaller species, yet strong enough to handle some medium size ones too.

It does feel a little bendy for a medium-heavy though and may struggle if you hook something quite big. 

The Crixus is beautifully balanced and a joy to cast with.

You’ll be able to hit your desired spot time and time again without any concerns, and even if the grip is wet, it stays in your hands. 

The grip is a little short in front of the seat; this does get annoying for some anglers who like to use the front grip for extra leverage, so bear that in mind.

It also comes in two pieces, so is a little long in the case for traveling with. It’ll be fine to go in the overhead but it might not fit in your suitcase.

• Model: KRDSPNCX-76MH2
• Line: 10-17 lbs
• Lure Weight: ⅜ – ¾ oz
• Light for easy all-day casting
• Comes in a bulletproof travel case
• Excellent grip never slips even when wet
• Sensitive with great casting action for hitting cover and feeling subtle bites
• Awesome quality for the price point
• Very short grip in front of the reel seat
• Feels a little light for a medium-heavy and may not manage larger fish
• Comes in two pieces and may not fit in your luggage

Okuma Nomad Spinning Travel Rod

This is one of the best travel rods and performs excellently when targeting larger species, but is a bit too blunt for light freshwater fishing.

The Okuma Fishing Tackle Nomad is designed for the ocean and is the perfect travel companion for bouncing from the Florida Keys to Costa Rica and beyond.

The Okuma Nomad travel rods are described as the 3-piece that feels like a one-piece.

This is one of the best spinning travel rods and performs excellently when targeting larger species, but is a bit too blunt for light freshwater fishing. 

The Okuma Nomad is made from a high-quality graphite blank that is wrapped in carbon for extra strength.

The Okuma Nomad is durable as hell as far as travel fishing rods go and has the power to handle some serious creatures, especially when the fishing rod and reel combo are matched correctly. 

The Nomad comes with two tips, a light tip, and a heavy tip, giving you almost two different rods. You can drop down to the light tip for small species and slip on the heavy tip when you’re going after those monsters. 

The Okuma Nomad uses stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts that are designed to reduce friction when fishing braid. This not only looks after your braid but also gives you some extra casting distance when spinning. 

It also comes with a protective carrying case that is waterproof, so no matter what happens, you know your rod will be living in a salt-free environment.

Unfortunately, there isn’t space for your fishing reel in the carrying case.

• Model: NT-S-703L-ML
• Power Rating: Medium-light
• Length: 7 ft
• Line: 10-30 lbs
• Comes with two tips, one light and one heavy
• Great for medium-sized saltwater fishing
• Sturdy and powerful rod for putting the heat on large fish
• Comes in a protective, waterproof carrying case
• Made from quality materials that can handle saltwater with ease
• Uses braid ready zirconium guides
• A little too heavy for any light fishing
• The case won’t fit both your fishing rod and reel combo inside

What Is A Travel Fishing Rod

Traveling fishing rods can be spinning rods or fly rods, any kind of rod for that matter. You can travel with a 7 weight setup but it might be considerably more tedious.

The only difference is that the rod is designed to make traveling with it more convenient. 

A travel fishing rod will either be a multiple piece rod or a telescopic fishing rod, reducing it’s length significantly when broken down.

The length reduction means it’ll be small enough to fit in your check-in luggage or maybe even your tackle box, making it a good fishing rod for travel. If you need rods specifically for backpacking, you might want to check out this best backpacking fly rods review .

It’ll come with a protective rod case too, which you’ll just slot into your suitcase for check-in or take as a carry-on along with your reel and fishing accessories..

It’s much more comfortable than showing up to the airport with a one-piece 12ft spinning rod and hoping it’ll survive the journey, although it is fun to look at the flight staff’s face when they wonder, “what the hell is that thing”! 

Travel Rod V’s Normal Rod – What’s The Difference? 

The only real difference between a travel rod and a standard rod is its length when packed away.

Instead of being a two-piece spinning rod and being 7ft long when packed away, it’ll be a 4 piece travel spinning rod and only be 3.5ft when packed away.

A travel spinning rod can also be telescopic , meaning the rod’s sections collapse into each other and when stored, can be as small as only a foot long. 

The short length means you can take the rod and reel combo on the plane or pack your rod and reel in your main luggage. 

Can Normal Rods Still Travel? 

Yes, of course, but they are quite inconvenient to travel with.

I remember trotting around the globe with my two-piece fishing rod and reel combo and having to put it in a PVC case to check it in as a separate piece of luggage every time I flew.

It got expensive checking in my fishing gear and tackle box and I would always be worried on the flight if my rod would make it safely; one day it didn’t. 

You don’t have to own a travel fishing kit but it will make your life a little less expensive and your fishing trips a little more stress-free. 

Are Fishing Rods Allowed On A Plane? 

This depends on the country you’re traveling in.

In the USA, yes they are, and so is a reel, as long as they fit in the overhead or under your seat, basically the standard carry-on rules.

Depends on Size

A standard travel spinning rod will fit in the overhead lockers no problem.

If the fishing pole is too long, you’ll have to check them in.

Depends on Destination

In other countries, the rules differ quite considerably from place to place.

I have fished all over the world and had many long conversations with flight staff as to why my best travel fishing rods weren’t dangerous.

In the end, I couldn’t be bothered with the hassle, so every time I fly, my best travel fishing rods and reel go in my cart or check-in bag with the rest of my fishing gear. 

A Multiple Piece Rod Or Telescopic Fishing Rod, Which Is Best? 

As we have discussed, there are two types of travel fishing rods to choose from; a multiple piece spinning travel rod or a telescopic fishing rod, so which is best? 

Personal Preference

In my opinion, a multiple piece travel spinning rod is always going to be better than a telescopic fishing rod.

A telescopic fishing rod is prone to issues and doesn’t usually have a multiple piece rod’s quality. 

They tend to collapse while you’re fishing and due to the inferior quality, little annoying things like the guides popping out or the mechanism breaking end up affecting your fishing.

This is especially annoying if you have traveled around the globe to fish an amazing spot. 

To Each Their Own

That being said, telescopic rods are useful as backpacking fishing tackle , as they pack down a bit smaller than multiple piece rods and will slot into your backpack or tackle box easier.

In the end, it’s a personal choice.

What Makes The Best Travel Fishing Rod? 

There are several factors that make up the best travel fishing rods and we’ll run through them below. If you only plan on owning one, the key is versatility, and here is why. 

What Are You Fishing For? 

If the world was your oyster and money no object, where would you take your fishing trip?

The list is probably growing in your head as you dream of all the species you’d love to experience and the beautiful places they live in.

In the end, it’s a long list and the last thing you want is your fishing gear to hold you back.

Versatility

With this in mind, you’re going to want a travel fishing rod that can handle your fishing style and a solid variety of species and environments.

This means it needs to be light enough to enjoy catching smaller fish and heavy enough to target some bigger ones and handle saltwater too.

What we are looking for is a travel fishing kit that sits in the middle of the spectrum and will survive in saltwater. 

Materials 

Like all other rods, travel rods are can come in carbon fiber, graphite, and fiberglass construction or.perhaps a combination of these.

Fiberglass construction in travel rods is rare and most of the travel fishing rods you’ll find will be made of graphite or carbon fiber. 

Carbon Fiber and Graphite

Both carbon fiber and graphite are excellent rod materials for a travel fishing rod.

They are light, strong, cast well, and give a great all-round performance when you’re fishing. High density carbon fiber is a little bit more expensive and responsive than graphite but it is a little hard to tell when you’re using them, so the difference is negligible. If you’re a pro you may notice and want to go for carbon over graphite. 

Rod Length 

The ideal length of a good travel fishing rod kit depends on what you’re looking to catch and where your fishing trip is.

But when it comes to looking for an all-rounder which you can fish for multiple species with, you’ll want to look for a fishing rod kit around 8ft long.

This will give your spinning travel rod enough gusto to cast a few lures far and handle larger fish while still being delicate enough to fish for any smaller species. 

Rod Action 

The action of a fishing rod describes where the pole will bend under pressure.

Slow action rods bend near the butt, medium action rods in the middle, and fast action near the tip. 

Ideal Action

The top travel fishing poles are fast action or medium-fast action rods.

They not only increase your casting distance and accuracy but are also much more sensitive. The extra sensitivity allows you to feel how your fishing lures are doing and notice every little bite that comes along, making your fishing more successful. 

Power 

The power rating of a fishing pole dictates how thick and robust the rod is, and therefore how stiff the rod is.

The rating scale goes from ultralight to extra-heavy, ultralight for very small fish and extra-heavy for monsters or casting heavy fishing lures. A spinnerbait rod will, quite obviously, work best with a spinnerbait lure as that particular rods power will be designed with those lures in mind.

Ideal Power

The best travel rod will have a medium or medium-heavy power rating.

This will give it the strength to catch larger fish while still letting you feel the pull of smaller species, giving you the all-around option we are looking for. 

The weight of any rod has an impact on your fishing. Heavy rods make you tired when you’re casting all day.

You can feel the ache in your arm and notice your patience and enthusiasm start to dwindle. As a rule, you want to choose the lightest rod possible for your specific needs. 

Consider Other Factors First

The weight of a travel fishing pole should be the last thing you look at.

It is best to try to tick all the boxes we have mentioned above first, and then use the weight to make your final decision.

This way, you get a rod that will get the job done, and the lightest version of it, saving your casting arm and maintaining both your patience and enthusiasm. 

The best travel fishing kit will come with a rod case that the rod slots neatly into and protects it on its journey to new adventurous fishing grounds.

Going on fishing adventures without a rod case is suicide for your travel fishing rod, as it will break unless you’re cuddling on the plane.

In case you have plans to bring kids along with you on your fishing travels. These rods for kids are great to start learning the basics with.

TIP If the rod you choose doesn’t come with a rod tube, not to worry, you can buy a case that will fit to give you peace of mind while you’re traveling with it.

Let’s have a quick recap of the top three picks…

Best All-Rounder

If you’re looking for a great all-round travel pole that you can rely on and doesn’t break the bank, then the Okuma Citrix is the way to go.

Strong, durable, sensitive with the capacity to target everything from small freshwater species to punchy inshore ones too, it’s one of the best travel spinning rods to take on your fishing trip around the world.

If good value is your game and you’re on a budget, the Goture Exceed is the best travel spinning rod for you. Incredibly affordable while being high-quality, it truly is a bargain. It’ll go far if you practice proper fishing rod maintenance .

The Exceed does all the basics well and can handle both saltwater and freshwater fishing, making the world your oyster.

If it was me, I’d buy the Daiwa Ardito spinning fishing rod.

The Ardito is the best travel performer out of all the rods in the review and for this reason is one of the most expensive travel rods.

The balance of power and sensitivity with the Ardito is second to none, along with its awesome casting action and versatility, it’s hard to go wrong with this and if you pair it with the right gear, you’ll have a great rod and reel combo.

Thanks for reading my review and I hope you like it.

Please share this review to your fishing buddies who might find this helpful.

And don’t forget to read my other articles. There are many to choose from, like the “ Best Pen Fishing Rods “, “ Best Flipping Poles “, or “Bass Fishing Tips”. Feel free to check them out.

Lance Wilkins

Editor @ CallOutdoors. Outdoor gear-head and adventure addict. I fish, camp and enjoy to writing about my adventures.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Top 7 Best Backpacking Fishing Poles of [year] (Ranked and Reviewed)

Top 5 best kids fishing pole reviews ([year] buyer's guide), you may also like, top 5 best trout fishing rod of 2024 (buyer’s guide).

• September 11, 2020
• No comments

What’s The Best Fishing Pole For Beginners? (2024 Buyer’s Guide)

• April 21, 2022

Top 7 Best Saltwater Reels of 2024 (Buyer’s Guide)

• April 13, 2022

Best Fishing Pliers Review 2024: A Must Have Fishing Tool

• June 2, 2022

Top 8 Best Fishing Paddle Board Review (2024 Buyer’s Guide)

• June 28, 2021

Fishing Rod Length 101: In-Depth Guide To Choosing The Ideal Rod

• September 30, 2021

The TOP 16 Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024 (Powerful Portability!)

Do you love to travel?

Do you love fishing?

Well, how about combining the two?!

On-the-go fishing has never been more accessible, with some truly great travel fishing rod options out there that will help you enjoy the sport practically anytime, anywhere.

So, read on to discover the best travel fishing rods available in 2024, and you’ll never have to sacrifice one activity for another again!

• Our Top 3 Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

The Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod & Reel Combo is the ideal fly fishing travel setup. It is affordable, of great quality, portable, and comes in all weights to match most species.

The Daiwa Presso Ultralight Pack Spinning Rod is made to slot into your backpack. It is the perfect companion on camping trips where catching panfish and trout is on the menu.

The Penn Regiment III Boat Travel Rod does it all from saltwater to freshwater. This is a travel rod you can take and use on pretty much every trip you go on. It performs excellently too, no matter whether you are lure or bait fishing.

Table of Contents

Choosing the Best Travel Fishing Rod – A Quick Guide

Okuma voyager freshwater travel kit, orvis clearwater fly rod outfit, daiwa ardito-travel rod, penn regiment iii boat travel rod, daiwa presso ultralight pack spinning rod, okuma citrix travel fishing rod, offshore angler ocean master travel rod, rigged & ready smuggler travel fishing rod, flying fisherman passport travel fishing rod, tfo traveler fishing spinning rod, kastking blackhawk ii telescopic fishing rod, st croix triumph travel spinning rod, goture portable travel fishing rod, plusinno telescopic fishing rod and reel combo, capaci portable travel fishing rod, ronco pocket fisherman, type of fishing rod, size and weight, materials/construction, action and power, transport options, how do you carry a fishing pole while hiking, how do you pack a fishing pole, are collapsible fishing rods any good, what is the best backpacking fishing pole, can i carry a fishing rod on a plane, what do i need for backpack fishing, how do you travel with a fishing rod.

Disclosure: At BonfireBob, we recommend products based on unbiased research, however, BonfireBob.com is reader-supported and as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases if you shop through the links on this page. For more information, see disclosure here .

Choosing a good travel rod isn’t so easy as they come in many forms. Here is a quick guide to help make sure you pick the best one for your needs.

• Rod Type: Multi-piece or telescopic? It can be a confusing choice but I recommend always going with a multi-piece as there is a lot less to go wrong on the road.
• Size & Weight: A travel rod should be small and light. Look for 4 piece rods with intelligent builds to make them lighter but still strong.
• Materials/Construction: Graphite and carbon fiber rods with solid construction are the name of the game here.
• Action/Power: A fast action rod with medium power will have you covered for most fishing scenarios.
• Portability: Make sure it breaks down small and comes in hard travel case so you can move the rod around easily and safely.
• Cost: You pay for what you get in the fishing world. Luckily travel rods are quite affordable but don’t buy the cheapest one. Look for mid-pricing and you will find quality.

If your travel rod has all these features, then you are onto a winner that will last. For a more in-depth buying guide, check out the section below the reviews.

TOP 16 Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

For the price and popularity, I couldn’t think of anywhere better to start than the famed Okuma Voyager freshwater fishing rod.

This is a complete travel kit that comes with some handy fishing accessories for your next fishing trip, including a custom case and tackle box for fishing lures .

The size 20 reel is ideal for a variety of species, including panfish, walleye, bass and trout fishing, while the rod itself offers a nice, light action with comfortable cork grips.

Are there better fishing rods out there? Sure, but for the money, this could easily be considered the best travel fishing rod available.

• Great price point for what you get.
• Rod and reel combo.
• Padded foam bag with carry handles.
• Spinning reel with ball-bearing drive system.
• Ceramic guide inserts.
• Not the best for big fish.

When considering this setup as the best travel fishing rod, you must always remember the price. You’re getting a lot of bang for your buck here, and for a fishing rod and reel combo – you can’t go wrong with the Voyager.

If you’re interested in fly fishing on-the-go, then look no further than the Orvis Clearwater fly rod.

Not only is it one of the best fly fishing rods for the money, but the four-piece rod and reel combo is super easy to transport, thanks to its well-constructed, durable, dedicated rod tube.

The Clearwater series is immensely popular for good reason – it offers smooth casting, is suitable for fresh and saltwater fishing, and features composite butts for extra durability.

If you’re choosing one fly fishing rod and reel for travel – make it this one.

• Very highly rated.
• Full black nickel aluminum reel seat.
• Chrome snake and stripping guide.
• Quick rod identifier on blank.
• It’s on the more expensive side.

A brand-new design, the Clearwater fly rod is every inch the fishing tool you need, with outstanding portability to boot. Probably the best fly travel fishing rod on the market.

The Daiwa Ardito-Travel Rod is perfect for taking on the road. But why?

Well, firstly it breaks down into 3 pieces into the included travel case. You can put it in a suitcase, clip it to a backpack, or lay it on the back seat of the car.

The rod’s fast action, medium-heavy power, and 7’6 length make it an ideal all-around rod for casting lures on lakes, rivers, and inshore. It will literally work almost everywhere making it ideal for most fishing trips.

Built from a durable graphite blank, it is made to last and provides solid casting performance in both accuracy and distance.

It also features quality Fuji Aluminum Oxide Guides, a reliable reel seat, and comes with a V-Flex Ferrule Joint System so it won’t come apart on the cast.

To top it all off, this rod is super affordable for its quality. But, there is one issue, the tip is a little delicate and can snap so treat it with care.

• Affordable for the quality.
• Great graphite blank.
• Casts well.
• Super light and portable.
• Comes with a travel case.
• Ideal all-around length.
• Great power and action.
• Perfect for all-around use.
• Tip is delicate.

The Daiwa Ardito-Travel Rod is an awesome all-around travel rod. Light, compact, and super portable, you can take it anywhere. Plus, its length, action, and power make it perfect for a range of fishing situations, from lakes to rivers and inshore saltwater.

Penn are known for their awesome saltwater rods. If you are looking for a travel rod for both saltwater and freshwater, then this might just be it.

The Penn Regiment III Boat Travel Rod comes in 4 pieces in its own cordura tube. You can take it anywhere safely from on a boat to a plane, to hiking up the coast on a camping trip.

The rod is made from a quality 30 ton carbon blank featuring SLS3 tech, making it thinner, lighter, but still super tough – exactly what you want from a travel rod.

It loads excellently to ensure accuracy over both short and long distances. The sensitive tip makes it perfect for both lure and bait fishing too, so you are not restricted in any way.

The rod is also durable, made for both braid and mono, and you can put a lot of pressure on a fish with these thanks to the strong but section.

Overall, it is a hard rod to beat, as it literally works in all scenarios from saltwater to freshwater. To top it all, it is very affordable too!

• Great casting distances and accuracy.
• Sensitive to bites.
• Light but very strong.
• Packs down small.
• Includes a hard travel cases.
• You can pull fish hard with these.
• None I can find.

The Penn Regiment III Boat Travel Rod is the perfect travel rod for both saltwater and freshwater. It performs across the board with regards to casting performance durability, portability, and strength, plus is great for both bait fishing and lure fishing too!

The Daiwa Presso Ultralight Pack Spinning Rod is designed for one thing – catching trout and small panfish while camping in the wilderness.

It is just 5’6” in length and breaks down into 4-pieces, making it tiny when packed. You can slip it into your backpack and barely notice it is there as you hike to lakes and rivers.

The rod is made from quality IM-7 graphite so it will last, and being ultralight, is designed to cast small lures perfectly. It has a relatively stiff action which lets you get a solid distance with light lures.

The only negative about this rod is that it only has one purpose, catching small fish. It is not an all-around travel rod like some of the others.

Also, the travel case is a bit too big for the rod, reducing its portability a bit which is a shame.

Overall though, it is a high-performing travel rod that is both affordable and super portable.

• Perfect for camping trips.
• Made for trout and panfish.
• Super small and fits in your backpack.
• Lightweight and durable.
• Great for short accurate casts.
• Looks great.
• Only for small fish.
• Bulky travel case.

The Daiwa Presso Ultralight Pack Spinning Rod is the perfect rod for camping trips. Designed to catch trout and small panfish while slotting in your backpack, it is ready for every mountain adventure.

Okuma is a global leader when it comes to fishing gear and will need little introduction for those in the know.

This is a top-quality four-piece spinning travel rod that is a total of seven feet in length, made with IM8 graphite blank construction.

The grip has split EVA foam to reduce weight, with APLS stainless steel guide frames, durable zirconium line guide inserts for use with braid or mono lines, and a Pac Bay minima reel seat that also helps to keep things lighter and well-balanced.

This is a solid, well-made option that just might be the best travel spinning rod there is.

• Outstanding price for the quality.
• Durable build construction.
• Lightweight.
• Travel tube included.
• None immediately apparent.

You’ll pay double and sometimes triple for other brands offering this kind of quality, which is why it’s a very popular choice for anglers on the go, and a contender for the best travel fishing rod around.

Looking for the best travel fishing rod for surf fishing? The Offshore Angler Ocean Master might well be it.

Made with lightweight IM-8 graphite, it has carbon-coil technology for durability, with Fuji Alconite guides to enhance casting distance.

The double-helix configuration of materials improves structural integrity, which means you can be confident fishing for larger fish and saltwater species.

The seven-foot rod length is perfect for offshore fishing, with a medium-heavy or heavy action available. For saltwater, this could well be the best travel fishing rod available.

• Ideal for saltwater fishing.
• Carbon-fiber construction.
• Choice of rod action.
• Lightweight travel tube included.
• None to speak of.

As far as saltwater fishing rods go, this carbon-fiber casting rod is up there with the best when it comes to travel. This is a top-quality rod that is well worth your consideration.

Designed to be the ideal size for small luggage and carry-ons, this rod is from travel fishing store Rigged and Ready.

The clue is in the name, and this will easily fit into or as part of one of these excellent fishing backpacks , so you’re kitted out for a moment’s notice.

Made with premium-quality nano-carbon, it’s a seven-piece kit that offers a choice of set-up lengths depending on your preferred style of fishing. The fiberglass tip is “unbreakable,” with a casting weight of 5-20 grams and 15-40 gram fast action.

A graphite reel seat is durable and well-balanced, and the interchangeable tips give you the option to fish the way you want.

• Great price.
• Durable, carbon-fiber construction.
• Silicone eyes.
• Compact design.
• Four interchangeable tips.
• Attractive, rugged travel case.
• Not actually “rigged and ready,” so be aware of that.

A well-designed travel rod from a company that specializes in travel fishing. The choice of set-up lengths and tips to cater for your preferred fishing style means you only ever have to take one rod with you.

If you purchase the aptly-named Flying Fisherman Passport travel rod, you’re actually getting two rods for your money.

You can select your preferred weight, and you will receive a fly and spinning rod in an attractive travel-friendly case.

The fly rod is four-piece while the spinner is three, each made with high-strain, Japanese graphite with nano-resin, while the grips are high-quality Portuguese cork.

The reel seat and guides are made by Fuji, and the blank taper of each rod has been designed to improve sensitivity, as well as their overall strength and performance.

• Two rod options.
• Reinforced carbon-fiber connections.
• Premium-quality materials and parts.
• Durable carry-case and black velvet rod bags.

This would make the perfect gift for the traveling fisher-person in your life (and it’s perfectly fine if that’s you). Two excellent rods for fly and spinning, this is one of the best travel fishing kits out there. But maybe a fishing rod and reel combo would have been nice, too.

Next up we have this three-piece, 7.3 foot travel spinning rod designed for spin fishing with medium power.

It’s been made with a combination of IM carbon-fiber and proprietary lightweight scrim, which ensures the rod is very easy to handle, with decent sensitivity and a nice, medium-fast action to cover most bases.

With an attractive sky-blue finish, the rod has premium-quality cork grips, TFO’s skeletal reel seat, and with Fuji’s corrosion-control K-frame guides, this is a beautiful travel rod that offers a lot of versatility no matter where you’re heading.

A contender to be the best travel fishing rod for spinning.

• Attractive design.
• Suitable for fresh and saltwater.
• Well-balanced.
• Airline-friendly rod tube.
• Premium materials and parts.
• A little on the pricey side.

There’s a lot to like here from TFO, a travel spinning rod that has been well-designed and thought out, with an attractive aesthetic that’s sure to turn a few heads when you unveil it by the water. Unless you’re on your own, of course – then you can just admire it yourself.

On to the first of our telescopic fishing rod options now, with the famous Blackhawk II from KastKing.

With a great range of 14 lengths and actions cater to all types of fishing, you’re certainly not short of choice when it comes to probably the best backpacking fishing rod there is.

Made with durable carbon-matrix blanks and solid fiberglass tip, it offers a superfast setup, with stainless steel line guide, graphite reel seat and comfortable EVA handle for performance and control.

Whether fishing in salt or freshwater, for bass or trout, on shore, on a kayak, or anything and everything in between, the Blackhawk II range has you covered.

• Excellent price point.
• Telescopic rod.
• Durable construction.
• One-piece performance.
• Consistent, smooth taper.
• Eyelets can be tricky to align.
• A fishing rod and reel option would have been nice.

Probably the best telescopic fishing rod there is – or at least one of them. The Blackhawk II has garnered a great reputation as a product that will leave you pleasantly surprised.

But check out this review of other quality telescopic fishing rods if you’d like more to compare.

Another world-class fishing brand that produces some top-quality gear and equipment, St Croix were always going to have a place somewhere in this review.

This is one of their excellent travel spinning rods, with a premium SCII graphite construction, and available in a choice of lengths and actions to suit your preferred style.

The Fuji DPS reel seat is strong and durable, with a frosted silver hood, while the high-quality cork handle ensures a firm grip and unbeatable control.

And two-coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish improves the rod’s already excellent strength, sensitivity and hook-setting power.

• Name to trust in fishing.
• Travel spinning rod.
• Aluminum-oxide guides.
• Hard carry-case included.
• Beautifully designed and made.

One of the finest fishing tackle manufacturers in the world, you know you’re getting a quality rod with St Croix, and that’s exactly what this is. Up there with the best travel spinning rods available.

Made with a 30-ton carbon matrix, this four-piece travel fishing rod from Goture has been designed to offer the perfect balance between sensitivity, strength, and power.

Another brand that offers a great choice of rod lengths and styles, you can pick your poison to suit the type of fishing you do.

The reel seats are made with tough ABS material, while the EVA grips are super-comfortable to hold and offer nice balance and control.

Corrosion-resistant guides have ceramic inserts for durability, and well-spaced to offer the best casting experience and free-flowing line action.

• Excellent price.
• Sturdy blanks.
• Spigot ferrule construction.
• Finely tuned action.
• Hard carry case included.
• Reel seat isn’t the best.
• Balance might be a bit questionable for some.

You get what you pay for, and this rod is a decent option considering the price, but just don’t expect to be blown away by it. For more stuff that won’t blow you away (thanks to great weather protection), check out this review on the best fishing jackets around.

Now, I think this is a cracking travel-friendly fishing kit that comes with just about everything you need to get yourself in the game.

Available in a choice of lengths, the Plusinno telescopic fishing rod comes with its own aluminum spool that fits in the stainless steel hooded reel seats, while the rod itself is made from a combination of carbon-fiber and fiberglass.

Tough and durable, the rod has EVA grips for comfort, and the reel has anti-reverse and power-drive gears for extra strength. And line and lures are also included, so there’s no time wasted for catching fish with this all-in-one package.

• Super compact design.
• Everything included.
• Not the best reel – but still decent for the price.

A one-stop-shop for all your fishing needs, this set makes a great kit to throw in the back of your car. You don’t need anything else to get going – and as a travel fishing option, you can’t say fairer than that.

When it comes to the best budget travel rod, then this effort from Capaci just might have a shot at the title.

Available as a choice of either casting or spinning, they’re constructed from Toray 24-ton carbon, which gives each rod incredible sensitivity and power.

Six pieces make up the rod regardless of length chosen, and you’ll have a similar experience to that of using one piece rods.

Super lightweight and highly portable, you might just enjoy the performance of these carp fishing rods and reels with the bonus of being travel-friendly.

• Outstanding price.
• High density EVA and cork handles.
• Smooth guides.
• Lightweight and portable.
• Bag included.
• A hard case would have been preferable.
• Fitting it together can be a challenge.
• Won’t be the strongest option there is.

Whether spinning or casting, you can’t go wrong with the price here, and so you might as well get one of each. Easily one of the most affordable rods for traveling there is.

You want travel fishing? You’ve got travel fishing! The Ronco pocket fisherman might not land you that dream bass, but it can fit into your glove compartment, backpack, or even a larger jacket pocket.

You can also hang the ingenious device from your belt, ensuring it’s a great option to take camping and hiking, or anywhere you might need to catch your dinner in a hurry.

The automatic anti-reverse prevents the handle from turning backwards, and there’s even a mini-tackle box hidden in the handle for added convenience and portability.

Perfect for smaller fish, it might not revolutionize the fishing industry, but it might help you survive!

• Super compact and portable.
• Bonus lures included.
• Very easy to use.
• Great for kids/fun/emergencies.
• Not suitable for larger fish.
• Not actually a standard rod.

An indispensable little fishing gadget that you can store just about anywhere, and whip it out at a moment’s notice to fish a spot you might otherwise have missed.

And even if you’re not on a dedicated fishing trip, keep this to hand, and you’ll be able to throw a line in wherever you go.

Buyer’s Guide to Travel and Backpacking Fishing Rods

Size matters.

But there are other considerations when it comes to choosing the best backpacking fishing rods, so check out the buyer’s guide below for some insider tips and advice on what to look for.

Rods come in a variety of types to suit a variety of fishing styles. The same is true for travel fishing rods.

Casting rods, spinning rods, fly fishing rods, surf-fishing rods, trolling rods, telescopic rods… the list can be mind-boggling if you’re not sure what you’re looking for.

It would take too long to explain everything here, but with regard to travel rods, you’re mainly looking at casting, spinning, telescopic, and perhaps the odd fly.

Do your research carefully to choose the one that’s right for you.

Telescopic Fishing Rod vs Collapsible Fishing Rod

When it comes to travel rods, the debate of telescopic versus collapsible rages on. Which is actually better for travel and fishing?

There isn’t much in it when it comes to which one is more travel-friendly, although at a push, I’d say a telescopic will have a smaller profile and save you a bit of space.

But for the actual purpose of fishing, collapsible rods are much better. They’re stronger, more durable, and are much simpler to set up.

That’s not to say telescopic rods don’t have a place in your backpack or the trunk of your car – and they’re certainly the preferred choice for hikers, or whenever storage space is a concern.

By their definition, travel rods really should be as light and as compact as possible – but when it comes to rod length, you should be able to pack a six to nine foot pole at the very least.

The best backpacking fly fishing rods might be a little longer, but for the most part, a decent travel rod will be somewhere between that sweet spot, with a seven-foot rod recommended as a beginner, or all-purpose option.

You don’t want the rod to be too heavy for travel purposes, and as such, most rods in this review have been made with that in mind, and are super-lightweight in their design.

Fishing rods are most commonly available in three distinctive materials. Fiberglass, graphite (carbon), and bamboo.

Bamboo rods tend to be more old school and traditional, and they don’t make good travel rods at all.

You’ll be choosing between fiberglass construction and graphite, but most travel fishing rods utilize a combination of both materials for durability, strength, and performance.

Check out the video below for a brief guide to choosing the right rod material and the advantages of each.

A fishing rod’s action and power are important factors when choosing the right tool for the job.

• Rod action refers to where the rod flexes when pressure is applied to the tip.
• Rod power is how much pressure is required to bend the rod at the action point.

It’s quite a complex topic with a lot of science and tech behind it, and so it makes more sense to watch this excellent video below that goes into the differences in depth – but still keeps things understandable.

For travel rods, you’ll probably be happy choosing a medium-weight rod that offers a nice, smooth action and balance of power.

However, you can purchase rods that come with a choice of different tips, so you can cover all the bases and get the best of both worlds.

Aside from the rod itself, a reel is a very important and necessary addition to your fishing set up. And this is where your budget can be seriously stretched.

Good-quality reels can be eye-wateringly pricey, which is why it’s often a good idea to look for the best travel fishing rod and reel combo, so you get everything you need in a set.

Unfortunately, they’re few and far between (mostly consisting of the telescopic variety) and even then, the reel is rarely up to standard.

Still, it’s important to bear this in mind when budgeting your fishing gear, and if you can find a quality rod and reel combo then it’s well-worth considering.

It stands to reason that travel fishing rods should come with some sort of carry case, bag, tube, or box in which you can safely transport your new acquisition.

This is often overlooked when it comes to choosing a fishing rod, but it shouldn’t be an afterthought. How you carry your rod is, after all, very important when you’re traveling.

Look for products that come with good quality carrying options, and keep an eye out for those that specifically say they’re carry-on/overhead locker friendly.

The final (or perhaps the first) consideration will be to do with your budget. Travel fishing rods vary wildly in cost, and you can spend as much or as little as you like.

I would encourage you to select a rod based on how much you’re actually going to use it.

If you’re traveling regularly, then you might want to go for something more high-end, whereas if you think you’ll only use it once or twice a year – maybe go a little cheaper.

Of course, you could easily use a good travel rod as the main weapon in your fishing arsenal, and as such you should spend accordingly. There are prices out there to suit everyone’s pocket.

There are a number of ways you can accomplish this – depending, of course, on the fishing pole itself.

Many rods in the review above come with their own carry bag, and it’s possible that you’ll be able to fit this directly into your backpack, depending on its size.

A more common solution is to attach the rod to the outside of your pack using D-rings, webbing, bungee, straps, or whatever else your setup offers for carrying gear externally.

A telescopic fishing rod is often the preferred choice when hiking, as they can pack down much smaller than a two piece rod, for example.

While this is similar to the question above, if you’re looking for a more detailed answer, I would watch the video below that gives you some great advice on how to pack and travel with multiple fishing rods.

Yes, they are. Unless you’re getting a one-piece, most rods are collapsible anyway, and you can easily find two, three, and four-piece rods that will give comparable performance, all things being equal.

In the end, you need to understand that a quality one-piece rod is still likely to outperform anything that collapses – but it’s not going to be the best choice for travel.

Just don’t go too cheap when you’re in the market for a rod, and you won’t have any problems finding a good quality option, regardless of the style you choose.

For backpacking, I would be tempted to lean towards a compact telescopic rod, and I personally believe that the KastKing Blackhawk II is one of the best on the market.

Having said that, this is still a subjective question, and what’s the best for me might not be the best for you. So long as you can fit it on or in your pack – you should be good to go.

Yes, of course – providing that it meets with the airline’s carry-on luggage restrictions. So long as you adhere to them, there’s no issue in bringing a fishing rod on board.

Check this page on TSA fishing pole guidelines .

Obviously, it will need to be a collapsible or telescopic rod, as you still have to fit it into the overhead bins. Look for rods in the review above that specifically say they’re safe for air travel – if you’re in any doubt.

Anything larger than that, and you’ll need to check it in. Contact your chosen airline directly for full confirmation.

I think a fishing rod and a backpack would be a great start.

All jokes aside, you can keep things relatively simple when it comes to backpack fishing, in order to travel as light as possible and keep plenty of space for all your other gear and equipment.

Take a look at one fisherman’s backpack set up in the video below to give yourself some ideas.

There are all kinds of ways to travel with a fishing rod – but it helps a great deal if you’re traveling with a good travel rod in the first place.

A compact fishing rod will be easy to carry in your luggage, or strap it to your backpack. Just make sure it’s securely fastened and not sticking out anywhere that you risk putting someone’s eye out!

Never miss the opportunity to fish on your travels again by choosing one of the best travel fishing rods of 2024.

Let me know which one you’ve gone for and why – and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more top tips, advice and reviews.

Tight lines, folks, and happy fishing.

Bob Hoffmann

The author of this post is Bob Hoffmann. Bob has spend most of his childhood fishing with his father and now share all his knowledge with other anglers. Feel free to leave a comment below.

Recent Content

Carp Feeding Times, Triggers & Habits

Everyone... including you... wants to catch more fish. For the sake of this blog, we are going to discuss how we move from the point of trying to the point of understanding. In addition, we will...

Using Bluegill For Catfish Bait - A Step by Step Guide

Using bluegill for catfish bait can certainly increase the odds of catching the bigger catfishing strolling beneath the water surface. Is it worth using? Absolutely. It’s one of the best...

The 5 Best Travel Fishing Rods of 2023

Geoff Stadnyk in Fishing Rods on January 3, 2023 January 3, 2023

Traveling fishing rods are all about convenience.

A traveling fishing rod should be portable, lightweight, and easy to transport without taking up much space.

Slipping the best travel fishing rod, reel, and a hand full of lures into your backpack when venturing into the great outdoors is how great memories are made.

True travel fishing rods generally follow two designs with the most recognizable being the telescopic fishing rod.

The second option is the take-down multi-piece designs.

The number of pieces can range between two to six sections with four-piece rods fairly common.

Best Travel Fishing Rod

A myriad of travel fishing rods is available today.

Amazon’s online store offers over three hundred options for various angling disciplines.

Some possibilities include rod and reel combos, including a few lures and hooks.

Prices vary widely, ranging from as low as twenty dollars to four hundred and fifty dollars.

Let’s look at a few popular travel fishing rod options from Amazon for your convenience.

Best Designed Travel Fishing Rod

Smuggler 7 – rigged & ready review.

In my opinion, Rigged & Ready has struck gold with the design of the Smuggler 7 range of travel rods. It offers great value in a decent length, increasing the versatility of the rig.

Fishing Rod Length

The Smuggler 7 travel fishing rod is a seven-piece, well eight, if you include the two rod tips fishing gear.

The tips are interchangeable, which changes the length of the rod from 7.8 feet to 8.6 feet.

Fishing Rod Material

The rod blank is made from high-performance, powerful nano carbon called SRF Zylon-Carbon-HighGlass.

A unique selling point is a claim that it has unbreakable rod tips.

The tips are of fiberglass construction and are white in color compared to the rest of the travel fishing rod, which is carbon black.

The fishing rod’s grip is made from quality EVA while the reel seat is the traditional graphite screw type.

The slimline rod guides or eyes are silicon lined, making the sturdy rod suitable for use with whatever type of fishing line is available.

Fishing Rod Action

This travel fishing rod is capable of various baitcasting weights depending on the rod tip used.

The blank is a medium action blank for use in many inland and sea fishing adventures.

0.17 ounce to 0.70 ounce (5-20 + gram) for the 8.6 feet rod (2.60 meter)

0.52 ounce to 1.41 ounce (15-40 gram) for the 7.8 feet rod (2.35 meter)

What type of fishing is the rod suited to?

The travel spinning rod fitted with an ultralight spinning reel makes this a cut above other spinning rods.

It is best to use with a bass fishing reel and is also great for catching carp, pike, and salmon.

Keeping in mind that this rod is made for use as a stand-by or non-primary fishing rod with the ability to get the job done in a variety of situations, the Smuggler 7 is a great choice.

The slightly more robust build with super-strong tips of this travel rod, when compared to all the rods, gives the angler the confidence to look forward to the best travel fishing experience.

The pricing of the affordable rods, which falls into the lower to mid-range spectrum, makes this a great option when buying matching rod sets for family members.

The length of the Smuggler 7 makes the rod easily managed by anglers of slight build.

It does not require a large fishing reel that helps in keeping the weight of the rod down.

Lines in the six to fifteen-pound class are well suited with the Smuggler 7 travel rod.

When used with fluorocarbon or braided lines, the rod is capable of far casts.

Best for Freshwater Fishing

Xceed 704m-s goture spinning rod review.

The Goture Exceed spinning rod is a great travel fishing rod for freshwater fishing.

The rods are made in four sections that push together to form the travel rod.

This series of rods are available in five different models, of which the Xceed 704M-S is my favorite.

The Xceed 704M-S travel rod is a four-piece device that slides into each other to make up the Goture travel fishing rod.

The total length of the assembled rod is seven feet.

The rod blank is made from 30T carbon fiber, while the handles are made from quality EVA material for a comfortable hold regardless of fishing style.

The reel seat is the traditional screw type and forms part of the middle EVA handle, which is turned to adjust the reel seat.

The rod sports eight stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts, making the rod suitable for use with any fishing pole line that you will pick .

The blank is medium to heavy with a fast to medium-fast action making this one of the best travel spinning rods.

The lure weight rating is 3/16 to 5/8 of an ounce.

The outfit fitted with the appropriate spinning reel makes a perfect travel spinning rod and is suitable for mainly plastic baits when bass fishing.

Of course, the rod is ideal for bait fishing, float fishing, and many applications.

The sturdy but light rod at barely 5 ounces is an excellent choice when taking a rod along on a hike or camping trip, especially if one doesn’t want to bother with a traditional one-piece rod that can be a pain to lug around.

The sticker price of the rod, which falls into the lower to mid-range pricing, makes this a great buy.

Suitable lines for this class of fishing rod are six to fourteen pounds, allowing you to land most inland fish species successfully.

Best Premium Quality Materials

St. croix avid trek 3-piece 7ft review.

The St Croix triumph travel series consists of seven models offering both spinning and casting configurations.

The brand is aimed at those anglers who demand top-quality travel fishing rods.

St Croix rods are handmade and constructed from premium quality materials.

The St. Croix 7Ft is my choice for fishing trips.

The seven-foot length strikes a good compromise between the rod’s portability when disassembled and practical rod length for most inland fishing purposes.

The rod blank is made from high-modulus SCIII carbon fiber material using IPC (Integrated poly curve technology) and ART technology.

The fishing rod handles are made from quality cork, while the reel seat is a screw-type supplied by Fuji for whole day fishing.

The slimline rod guides or eyes are zirconia lined, making the rod suitable for all types of fishing lines.

The ferrules or joints on the rod’s blank are slim line and reinforced to ensure the rod feels and performs like a one-piece rod and avoids dead spots in the rod’s action.

The rod is classed under medium action rods but is perfectly capable of heavy action as well.

Suitability for the casting of baits is between ½ ounce to 1 ¼ ounce.

Given its robust construction, this travel rod fitted with the appropriate spinning reel makes for an excellent spinning rig suitable for lure and baitcasting of the most common fish species.

The Xceed 70 is an excellent choice for use in most waterways.

The light construction, compactness, and high sensitivity make the rod versatile for various fishing situations.

The pricing of the rod falls into the higher pricing bracket and is backed by St. Croix triumph travel warranties – a transferable fifteen-year warranty which is one of the best in the industry.

Slightly built anglers can easily manage the length of the Exceed 70 and also will not require the use of a large reel which helps in keeping the weight of the rod down.

The ten to twenty-pound class lines are well suited for use with the St. Croix Xceed 70.

Best Build Quality and Materials

Angryfish telescopic spinning rod review.

The Angryfish telescopic fishing rod impressed me with its build quality and materials.

Many of the features found on the rod are often found on many higher-priced telescopic rods.

The rods are churned out in great numbers, but the quality is good.

All told, this telescopic rod is an excellent buy.

The Angryfish telescopic fishing rod is available in two lengths, 6.8 feet or 7.8 feet.

My choice is the 6.8 feet due to its slightly smaller dimensions when folded.

The rod blank, consisting of six sections sporting very low dimension ferrules, is made of carbon fiber.

The reel seat is an ABS screw-type molded part that allows your finder to rest on the rod blank for added sensitivity.

The rod handles are made of EVA material, ensuring a firm but comfortable hold on the rod without causing fatigue.

The rod guides, of which there are six, are stainless steel with ceramic inserts to make the rod suitable for use with all types of fishing lines.

The blank is medium to heavy with a medium-fast action, making this a great spinning model.

The lure weight rating is 0.2 ounces to 0.7 ounces (5 to 20 grams).

The Angryfish telescopic fishing rod is an excellent option for the weekend recreational angler.

Fitted with the appropriate spinning reel, the rod makes for a great spinning rig.

The rod is well suited for casting plastic baits when bass fishing.

Of course, the rod is suitable for most travel fishing applications where smaller fish species are targeted.

The sturdy but light rod at barely 4 ½ ounces in weight is a great choice when going along on an outing where a fishing opportunity might present itself.

The pricing of the telescopic rod falls in the lower range and is excellent value for money.

Suitable lines for this class of fishing rod are ten to twenty pounds, allowing you to catch most inland fish species successfully.

Best Priced

Sougayilang 6.9ft blue - telescopic spinning fishing rod review.

The Sougayilang telescopic spinning rod is amazingly low priced for its quality.

Available in combo form which includes some basic fishing lures and hooks and a spinning reel, I picked the 6.9 feet rod.

The Sougayilang telescopic rods are available in five lengths ranging from 5.9 feet to 10.9 feet.

My choice is the 6.9 feet due to its practical size for a travel fishing kit.

The rod blank consists of five sections sporting stainless steel ferrules to which the guides are attached.

The rod blank is made from high-density 24-ton carbon fiber and E-Glass composite.

The reel seat is CNC machined aluminum and appears of great quality.

The blank is a medium-fast action, making this a great all-purpose spinning rod for any fishing trip.

The lure weight rating is 0.3 ounces to 0.8 ounces.

A telescopic spinning rod is an excellent option for the average recreational angler.

The travel rod is fitted with the appropriate spinning reel to make a great spinning and general-purpose device.

The rod falls in the lower pricing range and is great value for money.

Suitable lines for this class of telescopic rods are six to fifteen pounds, allowing you to land most inland fish species.

And The Best Travel Fishing Rod Is…

My choice for the best fishing rod for the average recreational angler and traveler is the Rigged & Ready Smuggler 7!

The small dimensions when folded, nice storage tube, multi-tip option, price, and great build quality makes this rod a top-class product.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Travel Fishing Rods

In order to choose the best rods, you need to consider a few things before buying a certain model.

1. Length of the Rod

You need to choose the right rod length for your specific fishing application or what you plan to fish.

It’s best to start with a short rod if you are a beginner since this size is easy to master, and can be used for many different applications.

A medium travel rod is helpful for catching species like beam, golden perch, trout, whiting, and other small fish.

A larger fish, of course, like kingfish, mackerel, queenfish, trevally, and others will require a longer travel fishing rod.

2. Number of Rod Pieces

Multi-piece rods can be broken down into two, three, four, or even up to eight pieces.

This makes them easier to carry in your luggage or fishing rod case when it is time to pack.

The parts are also easier to replace when you break or lose one because you only have to buy one section and not the whole rod.

The downside is you have several pieces to look after and you have to secure each segment tightly or they might break under strain.

Multi-piece rods are also more expensive than one-piece rods.

3. Fishing Rod Material

The material from which the rod is made will play a big role in its durability, and price .

Fiberglass rods have been around for ages because they are durable and affordable but their lower sensitivity makes it harder to detect lighter bites.

Graphite rods have high tensile strength and sensitivity but it is an expensive material for those on a budget.

A composite rod combines the best features of both fiberglass and graphite but is more expensive than pure fiberglass rods and less sensitive than pure graphite ones.

You may also want to look at the other rod components like the rod guide which is best with a ceramic coating and the rod handle which comes in cork or EVA foam.

4. Rod Power

Power is a measure of how strong a rod is and its capability to withstand pressure when catching fish.

Rod power ratings are classified as light, medium, or heavy, or medium/light or medium/heavy in some cases.

A light power rating means the rod can only handle small fish species like crappie, trout, bluegill, and other panfish.

A medium power rating is fine for, well, medium-sized fish such as bass, catfish, pike, or walleye.

For big fish such as musky and tuna, a heavy power rod is a must.

Medium-light bridges light to medium and is capable against smallmouth bass and steelhead trout.

Medium-heavy, on the other hand, has excellent power for flounder, pompano, and salmon.

Fishing rods are available in a mind-boggling variety and quality.

The critical requirements for a travel rod are portability and convenience.

The Smuggler 7 fishing rod kit fits the bill of the best travel rod superbly by offering a two-in-one rod option with interchangeable tip sections that make it a great buy.

Geoff started fishing as a child in the gorgeous lakes of Mammoth, while on family vacations. His fishing experience includes the use of fly rod and reel. Guided trips along the Madison and Gallatin rivers in Montana, the Frying Pan and Animus in Colorado, and the Deschutes river in Oregon have all paid off and helped make Geoff the angler and writer that he is today.

As an Amazon Associate, Fishermen's Angle earns from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

We promise you, we won't flood your inbox. Subscribe today and join our fast growing fishermen community. Receive the latest only from the best!

This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on a link we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Best Travel Fishing Rod 2023 – Top Rated Travel Rods

The best travel spinning rods.

Looking for a compact easy to transport rod that still performs? Our list of travel fishing rods has something for all budgets. 

Nothing beats hitting the open road to your favorite destination and as a fisherman the urge is always there to pack your fishing gear with you.

Sure a tackle box and a few reels don't take up too much space.

But rods are a different story.

One thing is for certain one and two piece rods can be a pain to transport especially if your travel plans involve catching a plane somewhere. Packing them up in large rod tubes can be a bit of a hassle.

A travel rod just makes life easier!

Our top choice as the best travel spinning rod is the Okuma Nomad . It maintains a near perfect taper along the rod blank due to a spigot furl design, high durability thanks to a carbon wrap over the graphite blank and is finished with premium quality line guides and reel seat.

The Nomad is best suited to salt water spinning or heavy freshwater work. If you are looking for a lighter freshwater travel rod then the St Croix Triumph 4-piece is an exceptional caster of light lures and is perfect for back-country hiking to small rivers and streams.

Okuma Nomad

The best travel spinning rod.

The Okuma Nomad is offers one of the best rod blank taper available on any travel rod, combined with premium ALPS hardware.

Rod design has certainly moved on in the last 10-15 years. Improvements in carbon fiber, graphite and even fiberglass construction techniques have given rod builders the necessary materials to produce some amazing travel rods.

Time was that your travel spinning rod was a clunky affair that lost a lot of it's sensitivity due to how the spigot affected the taper of the blank.

Clearly a one piece blank will always be the most sensitive and balanced when it comes to performance. However, travel rods these days have solved a lot of the old issues.

With a big wrap around spigot the natural taper in the blank was effected on a normal two piece rod.

Now multiple this be 3 for a 4 piece rod and you ended up with a rod that was limp and felt like it left you out of touch with your lure and hook setting.

A lot of modern travel fishing rods have whats known as a spigot ferrule . The spigot ferrule is essentially a piece that is bonded to the lower piece of the blank that the upper piece then slides onto.

It's perfectly normal for there to be a gap between each section, this allows for upper section to still fit snugly after the lower spigot has reduced in diameter due to normal wear and tear.

Below you will find a variety of different travel rods. Some are suited to heavier saltwater work and some to freshwater light spinning on rivers there are even a number of casting variants available if you prefer a baitcasting rod .

Best Travel Fishing Rod 2023

Why choose a travel rod over a telescopic fishing rod.

Although the quality of telescopic rods a has increased in recent years they still do not have the same feel through the blank.

Even though they have a regularly stepped taper due to each section fitting into the last still don't get the same feel from them.

A high quality travel rod such as the St Croix Triumph below will always outperform a telescopic rod. I have yet to find one that can compete with a well designed 3 or 4 piece travel rod. 

Now telescopic rods do have their place, they are great for keeping in the trunk of a car with a small reel and a handful of lures for the occasionally unplanned few hours after work.

However they usually never have the same backbone and always feel less than durable or capable of handling something a bit larger.

Best Travel Fishing Rods

Okuma Nomad Review

The top choice for best travel rod is the Okuma Nomad. It maintains its taper due to the spigot ferrule design described below giving an almost one piece feel to the blank.

The Okuma Nomad travel spinning rod is priced in the mid to high bracket. For the money you are getting one seriously sturdy rod. It definitely is rated on the high side when it comes to power.

So if you are looking for a light weight spinning setup then some thing like the Fenwick below might be more suitable. 

The beauty of the Nomad is if you intend to do some heavy freshwater spinning or some inshore boat work you can use one rod for both on those holiday trips to target many different species and it should have enough backbone to handle them.

The versatility of the Okuma doesn't stop there though. You get two different tips with each rod. Each with a different action meaning you have effectively two rods in one.

So if you are looking for a highly versatile saltwater spinning or heavy action freshwater spinning travel rod then the Okuma is the clear choice.

• Graphite blank with carbon outer wrap
• European spigot ferrule connection
• ALPS high rise 316 stainless steel guide frames
• ALPS two tone anodized aluminum reel seats
• Lifetime limited warranty
• Waterproof carrying case

St Croix Triumph Travel Spinning

If you are not looking for a heavy saltwater travel rod like the Okuma then take a look at the St Croix Triumph Travel spinning rod.

The range comes medium to heavy with all models having a fast action. These rods are suited to medium/light spinning.

They can happily perform spinning on small rivers and streams with smaller on 4-10 lbs line. The action is fast so you have some very quick hook setting capabilities and are pretty sensitive for a 4 piece rod.

Although this rod does come with a padded travel case it is only a soft nylon case and St Croix really could have taken the crown of top rod if they had supplied the Triumph range with a hard shell case.

That being said if you are careful about how you transport the Triumph males for one heck of a travel rod. 

There is also a casting model of the Triumph featured below.

• SCII grahite
• Extremely sensitive
• Fast action taper
• Fuji DPS reel seat
• 5 year warranty

St Croix Triumph Travel Casting

If you are not looking for a dedicated spinning travel rod and prefer a baitcasting setup then the St Croix Triumph Travel casting rod is sure to please.

Built on effectively the same rod blank sections as the spinning model above, the casting model will of course have a baitcasting reel seat and has the lower profile line guides that are usually found on a casting rod.

There is only one model available unlike the spinning series above. It is a 6'6" rod in four sections also.

The power is medium/heavy with a fast action and the line rating is 10 - 20 lbs.

With a line rating in the 10/20 pounds range and with a lure rating of between 3/8 - 1 oz you can throw some fairly decent sized lures. So, if is perfectly capable of handling crankbaits, large spoons and spinners and jerkbaits.

• 4 section travel casting rod
• Two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish
• Fuji ECS reel seat with silver hood

Fiblink 3-piece Spinning

These Fiblink 3 piece spinning rods are a great alternative to the Okuma if you are on a tight budget.

Similar in power to the Okuma the Fiblink are heavy rated and come in three possible lengths 6', 6'6" and 7' so pretty capable of handle some decent boat work too.

Like the Okuma these rods are certainly aimed at the saltwater fisherman. The line rating for them is in the 30-50 lbs and lure weights from 2-8 ounces. 

The Fiblink also comes with a waterproof carry case. However like any cloth based case it is not going to take too much abuse so if you intend on flying anywhere you might need an hard carry case.

• Graphite composite blanks
• Stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts
• Aluminum alloy reel seat
• One year warranty

Fenwick Methods Spinning

Fenwick are long known as a premium brand that produce some very high quality rods. Thankfully that same quality is still instilled in their travel rod range the Methods.

With the ability to change both the middle and tip section of the rods for another with a different action the Fenwick Methods travel rods are extremely versatile. 

This versatility means you can pack light but still be adaptable. Adaptability is something that is great to have when you are away on a trip to some unknown destination.

This versatility is a good thing given that there is only two rods available in the range a 6'8" and a 7 footer. The power is medium/light to medium.

Supplied with a hard case is a nice additional bonus and it really shows that Fenwick had the traveler in mind when designing the Methods.  

• 5 pieces in total
• Travel tube included
• Multiple center sections and tips included
• Spigot ferral

Piscifun Graphite 4 Piece

Priced at the lower end of the scale the Piscifun graphite 4 piece travel pole is a lot of rod for the money. 

The blanks are mare from carbon fiber using Piscifun's ArmoreCore technology resulting in a very lightweight and yet strong rod.

They probaly have the biggest range available from any of the travel rods. There are 3 sizes available 6', 6'6" and a 7'. The power is from medium/light up to extra heavy. 

The strength of the carbon fiber blanks are reinforced with 8-ton E glass. That extra layer of fiberglass makes these rods a whole lot more durable than a regular carbon fiber.

• Carbon fiber blanks
• Ceramic guides
• Medium to heavy

Daiwa Ardito-TR Spinning

The Ardito-TR from Daiwa is a 3 piece travel rod. They are available in a spinning and a casting variation.

The model featured here is the spinning edition and are available in 7' or 7'6 rod lengths.

These rods have been expertly designed by Daiwa. They have put a lot of thought into getting the rod taper to remain consistent throughout the blank. The taping blank and ferrule joint give a really clean join between each of the sections.

These are a 3 piece rod and as such have a bit more backbone than some of the other 4 piece offerings.

Slightly heavier than some of the other travel rods out there, however it is a pretty tough rod some not quite as easy to break as some of the others in this line-up.

• 3 piece travel rod
• X45 Bias graphite fiber blanks
• V-Flex Ferrule joint system
• Semi-hard travel case
• 5 year limited warranty

Choosing the right rod means knowing exactly what kind of fishing you intend on doing ahead of time. 

However, if you are on vacation and are not sure just what kind of water you may be fishing then the best bet is a spinning setup as it is generally the most versatile.

A good spinning rod can be used for almost any type of fishing assuming of course that you are not hunting large shark or marlin miles offshore.

If you are looking for a really good all round setup then the something like a travel spinning kit may suit.

The Okuma Voyager travel kit is probably the most popular travel combo available today.

No t e : it is best suited to lightweight freshwater spinning though, it is not meant for anything heavy I don't think the size 20 Voyager reel should be used in saltwater.

Best Travel Rod and Reel Combo

Okuma Voyager Travel Kit

The Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Travel Kit combines a rod, reel, tackle box and hard shell case all into a great value for money package.

The perfect travel combo to take away on a trip the Voyager travel kit comes with one of the best hard shell cases you'll find of any travel fishing rod.

A size 20 spinning reel definitely falls into the ultralight spinning category and with a sensitive 6 foot rod you can be sure to make some very accurate casts with lightweight lures. 

You also get a small lure box included in the kit. All of the components fit snugly in the interior padding of the kit so they won't get knocked about when in transit.

• Size 20 Voyager reel
• 6 foot rod comes in 5 pieces
• Hard shell padded travel case
• Small lure box included

Do You Need a Rod Tube ?

If you have ever tried to travel with a rod any kind of serious distance that involves using some for of publicly available transport such as a bus, plane or a train then you'll know that the luggage compartment is not the place to put your rod if you still want it in one piece when you arrive at your destination.

A rod tube however can provide good protection. Rod tubes are available in either soft or hard body variations.

Without a doubt travelling on a plane will require the use of a rod hard shell tube. The checked luggage compartment on a plane is usually crammed full of heavy luggage and a soft rod tube will quite simply not be strong enough to handle all that abuse.

• Fishing Rods
• Best Travel Fishing Rod

The Best Travel Rods Reviewed: Real Performance for Serious Fishermen

Anglers who travel a lot and want to get some fishing in or who need to pack rods in carry-on luggage know that real fishing tackle that meets their needs is in short supply.

Yes, you can opt for some of the products that promise performance - Plussino comes to mind - and you’ll see these rods recommended by sites where the writers probably don’t fish themselves. 

But if you want a real rod that can perform, casting and fighting like the rods you left at home, you’ll need to look carefully.

We’re here to help, and we’ve put together a list of some our favorites, as well as buying guide to get you on the right track.

Quick glance at the best travel fishing rods:

St. Croix Triumph Travel Rod

• Excellent, sensitive blank
• Good guides
• Excellent handles
• Fishes like a premium rod should

Tackle Direct Bass Pro

Fenwick HMG Travel Spinning Rod

Goture Travel Fishing Rod

• Great price for what you get
• Good, sensitive blanks
• Nice handles
• Fishes well

Smuggler 7 Travel Fishing Rod

• Very compact
• Good, sensitive blank
• Interchangeable fiberglass tips

KastKing Blackhawk II

Table of Contents (clickable)

• 1.1 St. Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod - Best Light/Medium-Light Power Travel Rod
• 1.2 Fenwick HMG Travel Spinning Rod - Best Medium Power Travel Rod
• 1.3 Smuggler 7 Travel Fishing Rod
• 1.4 KastKing Blackhawk II
• 1.5 Goture Travel Fishing Rod - Best Budget Travel Rod
• 2.1 Avoid the toys
• 2.2 Modular probably beats telescopic
• 2.5 Handles
• 3 Final Thoughts

Related: 

• Best Telescopic Fishing Rod
• Best Travel Fly Rod

Best Travel Fishing Rods Reviewed

St. croix triumph travel spinning rod - best light/medium-light power travel rod.

Length: 6’ or 6’ 6” Power/action: light or medium-light/fast Line and lure weight: 6’ (4-8 lbs. 1/16 - 5/16 oz.); 6’ 6” (4-10 lbs. 1/8 - 1/2 oz.) Material: carbon fiber Handle: continuous cork Guides: Sea Guide Atlas Performance SS304 stainless steel guides Pieces: 4

Most anglers already know that St. Croix is a premium rod manufacturer, but you may be new to the sport and have no idea - and there’s nothing wrong with that!

For serious anglers looking for a “real” travel rod that can perform with the best of them, the Triumph is very hard to beat.

Available in two lengths, 6 feet or 6 feet, 6 inches, the shorter rod is light powered while the longer rod is medium-light. Both offer a fast action.

St. Croix has chosen a carbon fiber blank for these rods, and that means fantastic sensitivity. For panfish, trout, perch, flounder, specks, and the like, these rods will perform masterfully, allowing you to feel every bump, nudge, and nibble.

And when the fight does start, you’ll find the backbone of these blanks quickly, about 25% from the tip. And don’t be shy about that medium-light rod: it’s a real beast if you’re working with a good reel and a properly set drag, and you can fight any smallmouth in the world with it, as well as most largemouth.

Both rods wear premium continuous cork handles, though the shorter rod has a shorter handle.

The stainless guides that St. Croix chooses are excellent performers in the real world, especially if you skip braid, which can be abrasive to any guides.

Overall, this four-piece travel rod fishes like a premium two-piece, and that’s saying something.

Fenwick HMG Travel Spinning Rod - Best Medium Power Travel Rod

Length: 7’ Power/action: medium-light or medium/fast Line and lure weight: medium-light (8-17 lbs. 1/4 - 3/4 oz.); medium (10-20 lbs. 3/8 - 1 oz.) Material: graphite Handle: continuous cork Guides: stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts Pieces: 3

Fenwick is another brand that’s built a long-term, dedicated following by producing premium rods, and their HMG travel rod is no exception.

Where the St. Croix dominates on smaller fish, the Fenwick’s heavier power medium rod would be my choice for travel when I’m looking for species like snook, reds, blues, walleye, bass, and anything else that might test a medium-light rod to its limits.

That’s not to knock the medium-light Fenwick but rather to applaud the medium rod.

Capable with mono lines as heavy as 20 pounds, and more than able to launch a 1-ounce lure like a rocket, this is another rarity in travel rods in that it fishes like a premium rod rather than a toy.

Expect a beautiful, continuous cork handle and excellent stainless guides with zirconium inserts.

In a hard fight, you’ll appreciate those well-made guides, and you’ll find the blank’s backbone quickly, just as on the St. Croix. Sensitivity is excellent, too, making this a superb choice for the angler who travels and wants a heavier rod.

Amazon  

Length: 7’ 8” and 8’ 6” Power/action: ??? Line and lure weight: 5-20 g. or 15-40 g. Material: graphite with a fiberglass tip Handle: split EVA fam Guides: stainless steel with silicone inserts Pieces: 7

Smuggler is a British company that’s put together a very portable seven-piece rod. Innovative in many ways, if space is truly at a premium, this is a rod you’ll want to look at.

Offered in two lengths, Smuggler is shy about stating the action and power you can expect, in part because British expectations and terminology differ on this point. But given that the larger rod can cast a 40 gram, or 1.4-ounce lure, I’d guess that it’s in the medium to medium-heavy range, with a fast action given the graphite blank.

The shorter rod can cast a 20 gram, or .7-ounce lure, and I’d make that about medium-light.

In either case, graphite is very sensitive material for a blank, and these rods should allow you to feel even the lightest strikes.

In terms of innovation, they come with interchangeable fiberglass tips that alter the feel as well as the action of the rods, allowing you a bit of customization.

Expect a split EVA foam grip and stainless guides with silicone inserts.

One thing that concerns me is that customers report quality control issues, especially with guide finishing. If you do pick the smuggler, check each guide carefully for polish and finish, and definitely contact the manufacturer if you get a lemon.

• Guide finish quality can be iffy

Length: see chart Power/action: see chart Line and lure weight: see chart Material: Toray 24-Ton Carbon Matrix blank with a fiberglass tip Handle: split EVA foam Guides: ??? Pieces: telescoping

Telescoping travel rods can be a nightmare, and most are made as gimmick offerings for new anglers who don’t know better. That needn’t be the case, and KastKing delivers a real rod that’s capable of actual fishing.

Now, to be fair to its premium competitors, you’re not going to get the sensitivity, backbone, fighting power, or durability of the St. Croix or Fenwick. That’s a simple fact, and I mean no disrespect to KastKing.

By design, a telescoping rod just can’t compete with a segmented rod.

But the carbon fiber blank on the KastKing is sensitive, and guide quality seems to be OK. I personally wouldn’t put much faith in the rods of medium power and above, as the joint construction on a telescoping blank is going to be abused by a hard fight with a big fish. 

Maybe it’ll take it; maybe it won’t - but I wouldn’t bet my fishing trip on it. The segments tend to loosen with casting - but don’t collapse. That’s not confidence-inspiring, because I’m sure that places greater stress on the joints, and with a heavy power rod and big, mean fish on the other end, I wouldn’t count on the rod to survive.

Instead, I’d stick to the lighter end of the powers - medium light and medium - and try not to push this rod too hard.

If that sounds like a serious reservation, that’s because it is. 

Now keep in mind that the Blackhawk II is about 1/3rd the price of the St. Croix and Fenwick, and if you’re just looking for an easy rod to pack and want to hit the water for a few hours, there’s nothing wrong with the product.

But as serious competition for the premium rods on our list, the Blackhawk II isn’t going to make the grade.

• The Segments loosen after casting, and I wouldn’t trust this rod in medium-heavy or heavy actions with big fish and hard fights

Goture Travel Fishing Rod - Best Budget Travel Rod

Length: see chart Power/action: see chart Line and lure weight: see chart Material: carbon fiber Handle: split EVA foam Guides: stainless with ceramic inserts Pieces: 4

For anglers on a budget too tight for the St. Croix or Fenwick, Goture offers a nice travel rod at a reasonable price. Available in powers ranging from ultralight to medium-heavy, and actions that vary from medium, to medium-fast, to fast, these are dependable travel rods that won’t break the bank.

The blank on every rod in this lineup is made from carbon fiber, promising great sensitivity and plenty of backbone. Powers and actions are matched well, and there are some great surprises in this series, like a light rod with a medium action that would be just perfect for small crankbaits.

Expect well-made, split EVA foam handles that provide plenty of territory, even for big hands.

The guides are stainless steel with ceramic inserts and clearly designed more for fresh-water fishing than the salt. They’re small - I’d say a bit undersized for salt - but perfect for enhancing sensitivity for species like bass when using a worm.

One word of caution: the ferrules are meant for a .6” gap, meaning that they should not be tightened down till they touch.

The carbon fiber blanks prove plenty sensitive and strong, and these are really good rods for the money. Anglers on a tighter budget should definitely give these rods a close look.

• Not going to compete head-to-head with premium alternatives like St. Croix and Fenwick

What to Look for in a Good Travel Rod

Avoid the toys.

When angling sites recommend products, there’s a real difference between content farms and those where the researchers and writers are fishermen themselves.

That’s a fact.

And just because a product is popular on Amazon doesn’t make it good.

Many of the telescoping travel rods with awesome reviews are disappointing if you’re more than a once-a-year angler, and you can chalk up the positive responses to people who really don’t fish a lot not using these rods much or knowing what they’re missing out on.

That’s not to insult anyone, and if you just need a rod for a few days a year and space is tight, go ahead: you probably won’t be disappointed.

But if you’re a serious angler and you try one of these out, I promise you, you’ll burn with frustration.

That’s why our list is populated with real rods that are high on performance, especially the St. Croix, Fenwick, and Goture.

Modular probably beats telescopic

On that front, modular rods are almost always better than telescoping designs. 

Being more mechanically simple, there’s much less to go wrong, and as ferrule technology has improved since the 80s, you’re not sacrificing sensitivity much at all by increasing that number to three, four, or even five.

And to be painfully honest, companies like St. Croix and Fenwick have hard-earned reputations that they’re not going to sacrifice by offering underperforming designs.

What this all adds up to in the real world is that modular is usually the way to go.

There are a variety of blank materials on the market, ranging from fiberglass and fiberglass composites to graphite to carbon fiber.

Let’s look at the strengths and weaknesses of each choice:

• Fiberglass and fiberglass composites - are well known for being heavy but very, very durable. They tend to be very flexible as well, but they can be made stiffer through the introduction of carbon fiber or graphite.
• Carbon fiber - is a common blank material, combining light weight with awesome stiffness and sensitivity. Not as durable to hard knocks as fiberglass, it’s still prized for its strength to weight ratio and its reliable backbone for hard fights.
• Graphite - is the lightest and stiffest of the rod materials out there, but it’s also the most fragile. A hard knock against a piling or rail can result in micro-fractures, so blanks made from graphite need some care in handling. But they’re awesomely sensitive and very strong, offering a fantastic performance.

Good guides are essential.

When you have a fish on your line, the stress on the line and rod is transferred through the guides, meaning that they need to be strong. But they also need to be as smooth as they can be, protecting your line from the heat caused by friction. 

If your line gets hot, it will fail!

An easy test of guide quality is to take a length of the line, pass it through the guide, and saw like mad against the guide. Excellent guides will leave your line intact.

Whether you prefer the warm feel of cork or the durability of EVA foam, look for handles that are long enough to give you a two-handed grip and really put some muscle into a fight.

That’s a tall order on a travel rod, but the best ones deliver just that.

Final Thoughts

Good travel rods are in short supply, and if you’re a serious angler, it can be a frustratingly difficult task to find one that fishes well.

What we can promise is that if you pick one of the rods we recommend, you’ll be more than happy with your purchase. The St. Croix , Fenwick , and Goture rods fall at different price points and quality levels, and the premium rods are definitely better choices if you can afford them, but all three of these products are real tackle designed for real-world fishermen.

We can’t tell you which one is best for you - only you can do that - but we can guarantee that these three will put a smile on your face.

As always, we’d love to hear from you, so please leave a comment below.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Product Buying Guides and Reviews
• Fishing Tips

Fishing Rods on a Plane: What Are the Rules?

You found a new rod on your trip and want to fly it back home. Or perhaps, you have a fishing adventure on your mind and are already planning the trip. Yet, you’re unsure whether flying with fishing rods is allowed and whether you can bring your fishing gear along.

Bear with us to learn the flight regulations regarding transporting of your fishing gear. We’ll also throw in some information on adequately packing your rods. Be patient and keep reading. Good things come to those who keep casting!

Table of Contents

Flying with a Fishing Rod: Is It Allowed?

Wondering whether you can bring a fishing pole on a plane? Yes, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states that flying with fishing rods is generally allowed by consumers.

US laws and regulations on fishing rods on airplanes permit flying with a fishing rod and gear. Still, the officer in charge at the checkpoint will make the final decision on the equipment you carry. Follow all regulations and respect the safety limitations. It is wise to check the airline website of the provider company to confirm the fishing gear fits in with the size and restrictions for carry-on items.

Many airlines have clear-cut size and length limitations for fishing rod carry-on and checked-in equipment. So you may want to read this article on travel rods for better options. Some airlines may even limit the number of rods to just two rods or imply some additional charges.

Fishing Rod Carry On: How to Bring Your Rod on the Plane?

The TSA allows flying with fishing rods in both carry-on and checked bags. Generally, most airlines follow the same rule so you can safely bring on board your fishing rod carry-on.

If the overhead compartments can accommodate your fishing pole and gear, you can bring them on the plane. Simply follow the size recommendations. Don’t attach the line or hooks to the fishing rod; detach the fishing reels.

Choosing how to manage your gear while flying with fishing rods requires careful consideration. Should you check the rods in or bring the fishing pole on an airplane with you? Naturally, it is better to pack up your fishing gear with a carry on.

The only issue is that rod tubes occasionally don’t fit the specifications for carry-on luggage. If this is the case, you may emphasize how important this piece of gear is for your journey to the carrier. Otherwise, you will need to check your fishing rods.

It’s widely known that checked luggage often gets damaged. Having said that, it can be challenging to fit one-piece rods in a carry-on, and you may have no option. No worries. There is a way to fly your rods as checked-in luggage safely.

If you are an international angler or like to travel and fish recreationally, investing in a sturdy cylindrical carrier equipped with a TSA-approved lock is wise. We advise you not to compromise on a decent flying rod tube or case to protect your fishing gear and keep it safe when traveling.

For instance, Southwest Airlines have a specific requirement for transporting the fishing rods that they are in a sturdy, cylindrical fishing rod container. If the container is over 91 inches, it is subject to oversize charges.

In addition, American Airlines has a standard overweight fee that ranges from 51 lbs (23 kg) to 70 lbs (32 kg). The same fee applies for checked bags up to 50 lbs (or 23 kg) and 126 in (or 320 cm) (length, width, and height). Your equipment bag will be charged as a separate checked bag if it exceeds the measurements.

Delta Airlines permits transporting fishing rods as a carry-on. Ensure they fit into the standard carry-on size of 22 x 14in x 9in.

Further, United Airlines limits you to one item of fishing equipment per customer that must be checked. It can contain a pair of fishing boots, two rods, a landing net, a reel, and a tackle box.

Alaska Airlines waives the oversize fee for fishing equipment and has standard charges as for regular baggage. A piece of fishing equipment should not be linearly larger than 115 inches. It should contain no more than two rods, one tackle box, and two reels.

How to Pack a Fishing Rod for Air Travel?

Packaging the fishing rods together in a short rod tube is the best option. This way, you will skip potential issues or damage on domestic or international flights.

Tape the rods together to secure them. Pack them in a fishing tube secured with bubble wrap or other suitable material. You can also pack the rods in their original packing to prevent excessive friction throughout the ride.

Regarding heavier gear like trolling rods or beach casting rods. It can be more challenging to convince airport security to allow you to bring a heavy fishing pole on any airplane. However, you may check your fishing gear as sports equipment, and many airline companies won’t charge you extra. Check the airline’s policy on sports equipment to be sure. Specifically, look up any information about fishing gear before booking your flight.

A fishing rod case or tube keeps your fishing gear safe and also makes traveling much more manageable. Look for a case made of strong but lightweight materials. Cases made of hard plastic are ideal for rod tubes because they are light, easily adaptable, and can take on any preferred shape. It is also flexible enough to withstand pressure from all directions while remaining stiff sufficient to safeguard the rods inside. After all, keeping the rods safe and damage-free is your primary goal here.

Another recommendation is to use a TSA-approved lock with a recognizable mark for your fishing rod case. Airline check-in staff have the training to recognize these locks. If your bags have to undergo an inspection, TSA screeners have special tools for opening these locks. This way, they won’t have to cut the lock by force and possibly damage it.

Flying the Rest of the Equipment

After establishing that flying with fishing rods is generally OK, let’s go through the rest of the fishing gear. The TSA informs that potentially hazardous sharp fishing equipment, like large fish hooks, should be wrapped, covered, and packed safely in checked bags. These items are prohibited on board, and it’s mostly for safety reasons.

Use carry-on bags to pack pricey and valuable reels or delicate tackles that don’t compromise security (small lures). Packing reels in your carry-on is not a problem, but you should ensure they are secured. A good reel case will do the job.

Another point to get further into is the lures. It is not legally against TSA standards to pack small, hazardous fishing flies in your carry-on luggage. However, they may be confiscated on the spot if airport staff find they are flight-inappropriate.

A general rule of fly fishing trick would be to put enough flies or lures in a compact fly box or a zip-lock bag that would be sufficient to cover one or two fishing days. Between 10 and 16 flies should be enough. Ensure you make an excellent lure combination with a primary and versatile selection. This will prepare you should the airline delay the checked luggage. Safely pack the remaining flies in your checked baggage.

The advice remains the same regarding the other equipment, like reels, hooks, lures, etc. If unsure about their safety, you should check state laws or consult the airline before traveling regarding your specific items.

Flying with Fishing Rods: Concluding Remarks

Flying with fishing rods should not worry you because it’s standard practice. However, pay close attention to what is written in the regulations and laws. All airlines have information on their websites regarding fishing rod carry-on and other sporting equipment practices.

Before booking a flight, collect all the necessary information. This way, you won’t be caught off guard once you arrive at the airport.

he question, “Can you bring a fishing pole on a plane?” bothers many fishing enthusiasts and shouldn’t limit you to taking fewer fishing trips. Choose a lovely location and plan that pleasant fishing journey you always dreamed of taking!

So start planning. You’re all set for your next fishing trip. Where to? California ? Florida ? Maybe  Pennsylvania or Alabama ? No matter the style, a fly fishing or bass fishing trip , you now know how to get your equipment there safely. All that’s left to do is choose the next destination, buy a plane ticket, and start casting on the next fishing trip of your dreams!

How much does it cost to bring fishing rod on plane?

Many airlines classify fishing gear as sporting equipment. The airline may charge passengers less or even nothing to check one fishing rod or more fishing gear. Some airlines, however, charge between $25 and $100 for each fishing rod. Sometimes, even checked-in fishing gear may be subject to additional fees. Checking the airline’s policies before booking a ticket is good advice.

Does TSA allow fishing rods?

Yes, the TSA allows flying with a fishing rod. This could be a bass fishing rods , saltwater fishing rods, or fly fishing rods because it’s all about the dimensions.

People Also Ask

Can I put a fishing reel in my carry-on?

The TSA allows reels to be packed in both checked and carry-on luggage. Secure them so they won’t get damaged.

Have you traveled with fishing gear and had a bad experience? What was it like? How you had equipment damaged while traveling? Leave any tips or ideas for others; we always appreciate your comments below!

Hi, enjoyed visiting your website. I am attempting to find things to improve in my travel gear. Thanks for your ideas!

I’m glad it was helpful!

I’ve been absent for a while, but now I remember why I used to love this website. Thank you, I will try and check back more often.

Hope to see you more often!

I got what you intend, thankyou for putting up. I am glad to find this website through google.

A required item for all anglers looking to travel with equipment!

I could not agree more; thank you for stopping by!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Don't subscribe All new comments Replies to my comments Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

You May Also Like…

Top 5 Best Florida Bass Lures for Your Next Fishing Adventure

Wondering what the best Florida bass lures are to land that trophy catch? This guide lists the top picks seasoned by...

The Fish of Alabama: The Different Species and Subspecies

Those who live in the state of Alabama are lucky when it comes to fishing. Alabama is an absolute fishing hotspot with...

Discover the Premier Bass Fishing at Headwaters Lake Florida: A Complete Guide

Searching for a hotspot for gigantic bass in Florida? Look no further than Headwaters Lake Fl, home to a thriving bass...

Top Winter Bass Fishing Techniques: Mastering the Art of Fishing in the Winter for Bass

Winter bass fishing presents a unique challenge for many anglers, as these cold-blooded creatures become less active...

Official Fishing Network

10 Best Travel Fishing Rods (2024 Reviews)

Are you planning to go on a fishing trip? You probably aim to find a lightweight, collapsible, and good-quality fishing rod for your trip. The ideal fishing rod can make a huge difference between a miserable day or a successful and fun fishing adventure. The last thing you want is to watch your line float lifelessly on water.

Choosing the most suitable fishing rods could be very challenging for you due to the variety of choices. However, you don’t have to worry about that matter. We are here to help since we wrapped up with the 10 best travel fishing rods on the market. All the rods highlighted in this primer boast the best features to offer you nothing short of the perfect cast.

List of The Best Travel Fishing Rod

• Fenwick AETOS Fishing Rod
• Okuma Celilo Graphite Lightweight Fishing Rod
• Okuma Scott Martin Fishing Rod
• PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod
• KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rod
• Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod
• Sougayilang Spinning Telescopic Fishing Rod
• Fenwick Elite TechTM Ice Fishing Rod
• Fiblink Graphite Ice Fishing Rod
• Ugly Stik®GX2™ Fishing Rod

Best Travel Fishing Rod s Reviews

10. ugly stik®gx2™ fishing rod.

Buy on Amazon

If you are looking for a lightweight fishing rod, don’t forget to count on a rod from the Ugly Stick brand. This fishing rod features the impressive Ugly Tech construction that combines fiberglass and graphite to create a strong but sensitive rod. One of the best attributes of this fishing rod is that it boasts a better balance for such a lightweight feel.

It’s designed in such a way that it adds extra sensitivity and strength allowing you to have a better fishing experience. The other amazing feature of this rod has to do with its lightweight and durable EVA grips. Most importantly, this spinning fishing rod is that it is very easy for you to operate, and you can apply it to any fishing technique.

9. Fiblink Graphite Ice Fishing Rod

Are you looking for a durable ice fishing rod? This fishing rod from Fiblink is recommended since it is made of aluminum oxide. The Fiblink Graphite Ice Fishing Rod is not only light and strong but also sensitive. With a weight of just 0.15 pounds, it is surprisingly comfortable to use. Moreover, it comes in a great shape and size which allows you to fish more comfortably. Its line flows easily through stainless guides. The rod’s solid cork handle guarantees a sure grip.

Additionally, the grip of this fishing rod comes with a solid cork handle. It is surely a perfect match for your targeted species and fishing style. The package of this product includes a fishing rod with a rod bag which could be considered the best gift for your loved ones for special occasions.

8. Fenwick Elite TechTM Ice Fishing Rod

Every ice angler will agree that there’s nothing that beats the serene beauty of early morning fog and a frozen lake. The Fenwick Elite TechTM Ice Fishing Rod is the perfect rod to complement your fishing experience.

It features high modulus graphite blanks that are specially tailored for ice fishing. Its solid cork handle has added TAC to deliver increased grip and comfort even in rigid conditions.

7. Sougayilang Spinning Telescopic Fishing Rod

Are you a regular traveler who is into fishing? Well, you’ll certainly fall in love with this fishing rod. It collapses completely for effortless storage and travel. The rod has CNC machined aluminum seat components, and a 3-point welded stainless steel guide featuring ceramic inserts to guarantee total corrosion resistance.

The rod’s E-Glass and 24-ton carbon fiber construction is capable of deadlifting up to 10 pounds. The fishing rod is best for freshwater or saltwater fishing.

6. Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod

The Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod features the impressive Ugly Tech construction that combines fiberglass and graphite to create a strong but sensitive rod. One of the best attributes of this fishing rod is that it boasts a better balance for such a lightweight feel.

It’s designed in such a way that it adds extra sensitivity and strength. The other amazing feature of this rod has to do with its lightweight and durable EVA grips. It boasts improved cosmetics for a more contemporary look.

5. KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rod

KastKing ensures your fishing is beyond fun. The company offers the best value spinning rods as well as bait casting rods to all fishing enthusiasts. The creators of the rod put much emphasis on the components they use to create their rods.

This fishing rod’s outstanding cosmetics will definitely look fantastic in any fishing rod rack. The rod is ideal for kayak fishing, freshwater fishing, or saltwater fishing . Whether you’re out fishing for trout, bass, or any other species, this rod is definitely a must-have.

4. PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod

The PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod was developed by a highly talented team that’s great at bringing out their ideas more smartly and creatively. This fishing rod features a sensitive graphite blank construction as well as an aluminum oxide guide.

It brings with it reel seats that make the fishing rod bright as well as resist corrosion. The rod features EVA Foregrip for utmost comfort. It’s made from durable and strong fiberglass.

3. Okuma Scott Martin Fishing Rod

There’s no doubt that Scott Martin has achieved the highest success levels in professional bass fishing. He has worked directly with Okuma engineers to create precise spinning and casting rods in the TCS lineup.

This particular rod enhances angler ability across various fishing disciplines – landing fish, fighting fish, hook setting, strike recognition, lure presentation, and casting. Whether it’s a simple, friendly competition or tournament environment, what is for sure is that lost fish do not count.

2. Okuma Celilo Graphite Lightweight Fishing Rod

The Okuma Celilo Graphite Lightweight fishing rod is undeniably made utilizing the highest quality materials. It tested perfectly for quality and reliability.

That explains why professionals from all around the world use it. The rod also features aluminum oxide guide inserts. It also has stainless steel hooded reel seats.

1. Fenwick AETOS Fishing Rod

In case you are looking for a high-performance fishing rod, the Fenwick AETOS fishing rod won’t disappoint you. This product is made with Nano Composite Technology used in the blank construction. The line speed is super fast allowing you to fish with convenience. Its reel seat is made with two-tone anodised aluminum with woven carbon spacer.

This rod is perfect for fly fishing and the grips come with AAA grade, thanks to its cork handle material. Furthermore, it is designed to fit all skill levels of anglers. Therefore, you don’t have to worry even if you are just a beginner. What are you waiting for? Add this fishing rod to your cart!

As We Wrap Up

Are you in the market for the best travel fishing rod ? Are you tired of the ones you’ve been using and want something new? If you’re looking for the best fishing rod, choose from any of the top 10 rods listed above, and I hope you won’t feel regret when others don’t.

Fishing for the First Time? Here’s How and Where to Start

While most industries struggled during the pandemic, the socially distanced endeavor of angling thrived. According to the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation , of the millions who dropped a line in 2020, more than half were brand-new to the sport. Interest hasn’t dipped since folks returned to work and other social engagements, either. Around 54.5 million Americans went fishing in 2022, a number up 4% from the previous year. And the contemporary angler doesn’t necessarily look like your bucket-hatted grandpa. For instance, over the past decade, women's participation ballooned by 4 million.

“The draw for new anglers is not only getting out, but having something to do outside,” says Lindsay Kocka, owner of Wade Well , through which she offers hybrid instruction blending angling with mindfulness and functional movement techniques. Kocka describes fishing as forest-bathing ’s opposite. “It’s for people who want to engage and focus and explore something new,” she says. “For people who want to connect with nature and feel alive.”

Here’s everything you need to know about how to get started.

Figure out what you want to catch—and how

"She’d seen some pictures of me fishing as a kid, and she didn’t ask my husband; she asked me," says Talan. “So I said, 'heck, yeah' and a few days later we took some live bait and a spin rod down to the river and had a great day catching fish.” When they got back to the car, however, Talan realized she’d left a good portion of the live bait (including chicken gizzards) in the car—in 102-degree humidity. The debacle required a full car detailing and left Talan resolute to never again fish with live bait, nor attempt to bring a live fish home.

Later, she and her daughter accepted an invitation to try fly fishing, in which the angler attempts to mimic Mother Nature’s food supply by casting a tiny fake bug—you can craft your own, or buy them at fishing shops—onto the surface of water, in hopes of giving it the appearance of an edible insect.

“Once I learned how to handle the fish I caught that way, I fell in love with the meditative, participative vibe of fly fishing, and landed on the best way to bond with my kids,” says Talan, who now serves as the DEI Liaison for United Women on the Fly , an organization aimed toward building inclusive communities for anglers.

Broadly speaking, angling can be broken down into two categories: conventional fishing (Talan’s initial pursuit, which is also commonly referred to as “gear fishing” or “spin casting”) and fly fishing. The former’s umbrella is vast—conventional fishing includes spear fishing (using spears or harpoons to impale fish), hand fishing (a super physical modality that involves simply holding a line, sans rod, with some sort of bait on the end), ice fishing, and various netting-based endeavors , many of which are specific to Indigenous groups.

In conventional fishing, you may or may not be using live bait. While the type of angling you pursue will likely depend on the waterways and culture of where you live, you can target pretty much any species using either a traditional spin pole or fly rod. But there’s one distinction you must remember: Bait in the conventional fishing world means lures whereas in fly fishing, bait means flies . “Hopefully you’re hanging with people who aren’t judging you, but there’s a big difference,” Kocka says.

The biggest barrier to people getting into any type of fishing is the fear of looking stupid, adds Paul Von Gontard, a guide based out of Missoula, Montana. He recommends heading to a local fishing shop while keeping in mind that everyone who's ever started fishing knew zero at one point. “The easiest way to overcome that boundary is to talk into a local fishing shop that’s not a big commercial retailer and just say ‘I don’t know that much about this and I wanna get into it,’ because it’s one of those sports where, if people are in it for the right reasons and truly love it, they’re psyched to share their passion.”

What you’ll need

“As an angler, you may be out there alone, casting a line, but so many people have been out before you, making sure there are fish to catch,” she says.

You can spin fish from anywhere you can sit or stand (think: docks, piers, shorelines, and boats), and all you’ll need is a fishing pole with a reel, lures, a pair of needle nose pliers to safely remove hooks from fish mouths, and sunglasses (a polarized pair will help you see through water’s surface, sans glare). Takemefishing.org offers all manner of species-specific how-to fishing videos (in Spanish, too), but essentially, you’ll want to attach your lure to the end of your line, cast out, and start reeling in. The goal is to create “action” or “jigging” of the lure, which is what typically triggers a fish to bite.

Flies are small hooks layered with string, feathers, or other material to imitate the appearance of an insect or other favored fish food. Tying them by hand is a revered art among many fly anglers; the flies themselves can be exquisite. They’re also widely available commercially and, with natural and synthetic varieties available in every color of the rainbow, fun to shop for—they’ll run you a dollar or three a pop, so pick up a variety and enjoy figuring out what works. Basic types include the “dry fly,” which floats on top of the water to simulate a bug landing on the surface; a “nymph fly” that floats underneath the surface, mimicking a larva; and a “streamer fly,” which gives the illusion of a smaller fish or other prey. At the local fly shop, staff always stay up-to-date on which options are proving effective in nearby rivers and ponds.

A guided drift boat excursion down a storied river, in my opinion, offers the most stunning and fruitful fly fishing experience for beginners. But most fly anglers wade into the water, using neoprene waders and wading boots ( Simms , whose founder invented waders, is widely believed to offer the most durable varieties.) The experience of crossing a river in waders, emerging snug and bone dry, is truly a sensation to behold, but both pieces of gear are a significant investment. If the water’s warm enough, just don shorts and water shoes.

Additionally, Talan advises bringing barbless hooks—“so you don’t hurt the fish or rip their lips, which reduces the chance of hurting them to a point where you do have to remove and dispose of them”—as well as a fishing net, SPF protection, a hat and neck gaiter, plenty of water, a first aid kit, and eye protection. (Aside from their obvious purpose, shades will protect your peepers in the event someone hooks you.)

Seek a physical guide. Or app. Or both.

Born into a family of fly fishers in Montana, Von Gontard grew up fishing in Australia, Latin America, Europe, and the Rocky Mountain West. “Anytime I fish somewhere new, I hire a guide, at least for half a day, because they all have intimate knowledge of the place. You can spend up to 200 days per year out on the water here in Missoula if you’re a guide–there’s intimate knowledge to be sourced. The good ones like to do it because they’re stewards of the water; they like to teach people about ethical angling techniques and about conservation and watershed quality.”

Takemefishing.org offers a free interactive map designed to help anyone find good nearby spots to fish and boat in the US. This handy tool also accounts for the best times to fish given waterways, and lets users drop ins on lucky spots. Meanwhike, a brand-new app named  ILLA  leverages a straightforward profile and swipe mechanism, a la dating apps, to help female anglers connect—whether to explore new waters, seek out a fishing buddy, or find safety in numbers. “Many anglers I know were introduced to angling by parents or partners who already possessed all the necessary gear and knowledge, and could therefore provide an accessible learning environment,” says Tana Hoffman, ILLA’s founder. “When you don’t have that foundation, finding mentors and resources becomes more challenging and pricey and intimidating. This is about creating a supportive network where women can share experiences, learn together, and overcome obstacles."

Where to go

Kocka adds that modern fly fishing was born on the East Coast and ticks off Vermont, Connecticut, and upstate New York as fishing havens. “The Pacific Northwest is huge for steelhead, which fight hard and are fun for adrenaline-driven anglers, and Arkansas has really epic brown trout fishing on the White River," she says. Even the desert has good fishing to offer—Kocka loves high-elevation spots like Lee’s Ferry in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area .

From DC, Talan heads an hour east to fish the Shenandoah Valley, but she holds a special place in her heart for Yellow Breeches, in South-Central Pennsylvania, which is where her family had their first casting lessons, and her kids caught their first fish. She names a few other somewhat unexpected places East of the Mississippi: “There’s a great place called Waynesboro in the South River in Virginia. Cleveland, Ohio—the Rocky River area in particular—has some of the biggest steelhead fish in the nation. She also loves Destin, Florida, for both its saltwater and freshwater fly and conventional fishing opportunities, and cites the Outer Banks of North Carolina as another favorite destination. Talan’s current bucket list? “Belize; Christmas Island near Australia; and on the Kenai River in Alaska.”

Remember, it’s called fishing, not catching

Kocka describes such goals as akin to “giving a dog a big bone he’s gonna be chewing on for months,” explaining that fishing always offers new ways to engage. After eight years focused on trout fishing—"and I still have a lot to learn in the land of trout fishing”—she says pursuing her next endeavor, warm water fishing, feels like “learning a new language.”

To keep from getting discouraged, Talan encourages new anglers to manage expectations—and to head out on the water with an intention to learn, connect, and grow. “I believe fish feel vibes—I try to go in with the mindset of being humble in the fish’s ecosystem and grateful for the experience and thinking in terms of building connection—with the fish, yes, but also with the people you’re fishing with. It creates this beautiful flow of energy.” Want more Thrillist? Follow us on  Instagram ,  TikTok ,  Twitter ,  Facebook ,  Pinterest , and  YouTube .

Katie O'Reilly is a contributor for Thrillist and a freelance journalist covering outdoor adventure, sustainable travel, environmental ethics, green lifestyle, and assisted reproduction. Her work appears in the Atlantic, Outside, Sierra, Runner's World, Alpinist, Bitch, Buzzfeed, and several other publications. Katie holds a BS in journalism from Northwestern University and an MFA in creative nonfiction from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. A Chicago native, she now lives in a patch of woods outside Missoula, Montana, with her husband, toddler daughter, and two rambunctious mutts.

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• United Arab Emirates
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• Puerto Rico
• United States
• New Zealand
• ➨ Choose from World Map
• Budget Travel
• Family Travel
• Getting Around
• Visas & Passports
• Work with Us

Browsing Category

• Czech Republic
• Saint Martin
• Uncategorized

Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Leave a comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Meet The Author - Greg

Recent Post

How Much Does a Trip to Egypt Cost: Budget Breakdown

March 10, 2024

Best Time to Visit the India Gate in Delhi [2024]

March 1, 2024

Flying with a Sinus Infection: Tips to Avoid Pain

February 20, 2024

11 Best Things to Do in Breckenridge Besides Skiing

February 12, 2024

10 Best Beaches in Mexico for Families (We Lived Here)

February 3, 2024

• Sports & Outdoors
• Hunting & Fishing
• Terminal Tackle & Accessories
• Tackle Storage Bags & Wraps

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Return this item for free

Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select the return method

This item has been tested to certify it can ship safely in its original box or bag to avoid unnecessary packaging. Since 2015, we have reduced the weight of outbound packaging per shipment by 41% on average, that’s over 2 million tons of packaging material.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Piscifun Fishing Rod Bag Holds 8 Rods & Reels, 100L Large Storage Fishing Rod Case, Foldable Fishing Pole Bag for Carrying Fishing Gear and Equipment, Portable Fishing Rod Storage Bag, Red

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

• Spacious Capacity: Our fishing rod bag can hold up to 8 rods & reels on the outside, providing convenient storage and easy access. The magic tape ensures secure placement and improved convenience. The exterior is divided into an upper flap pocket for 1 3700 box and a lower zippered pocket for 5 3700 or 8 3600 tackle boxes (tackle trays are not included). Additionally, internal divided design, separate space for fishing clothing, hat, and fishing equipment, making it perfect for any fishing trip
• Premium Quality: The Piscifun fishing rod bag is made of water-resistant high-density 600D Oxford fabric matching with internal C0 craftsmanship, protects your gear from the elements. The bottom has four-foot pads to reduce the bottom of the wear and tear, increasing the longevity. Note: This fishing rod bag will not stand up on its own when not fully loaded
• Inventive Design: This fishing pole case can be used both at home and on the go! The unique opening and closing design can be used as a big fishing rod carrying bag when you go out, and when you are not going out fishing, the fully opened design with durable & sturdy hanging buckle can be used as a rod holder on the wall; two ways to use, taking into account a variety of use scenarios!
• More details presented: This fishing rod storage bag comes with a separate sunglasses pouch, fish pliers straps and an external mesh pocket. Elasticized and secured straps make the center of gravity more aligned with the back, an interchangeable strap design for one or two shoulders! For your comfort and worry-free use
• Perfect for Anglers: The new piscifun family exterior specifically designed for fishing enthusiasts, this bag can hold all your gear and clothing for a day out on the water. Ideal for any fishing adventure

Frequently bought together

Similar items that may deliver to you quickly

Product information

Warranty & support, from the brand.

Who are we?

Piscifun was founded by Ben and Peter in 2013 out of their strong passion for fishing and family. This passion is also reflected in our company slogan: "Fish with Family."

What does it mean?

"Pisci" means fish in Latin. Piscifun translates to "Fishing is Fun." We want our customers to know that Piscifun is here to make fishing enjoyable and affordable.

Fishing Backpack with 4 Boxes

Room Size: 17.7'' X 12.6'' X 7.9''

Tackle Boxes Inclued: 4*3600

Fishing Sling Bag

Stand Size: 11.8" X 8.3" X 4.0"

Large Size: 14.96" X 10.24" X 4.33"

Travel X Fishing Backpack

Stand Size: 13.2" X 9.7" X 4.72"

Large Size: 16.3" X 12.9" X 5.7"

Product Description

Piscifun fishing rod bag: 100l water-resistant rod case holds 8 rods & reels.

This fishing rod bag is specially designed for fishermen, perfect to store fishing rods, reels, cambos and other fishing tackle gear.

100L large capacity, can meet the space needs of the whole family fishing trips

Maximum capacity of 8 rods & reels

Two carrying methods with single or double shoulders

Two colors are available：Red/ Green

Separate sunglasses pocket; soft lining protects your shades from damage

Tactical straps can be used for securely clipping items onto the bag

External fishing plier holder allows for quickly organizes for storage

Additional exterior pockets can carry fishing gear

Exterior mesh fishing gear storage pockets for easy access to use

Hidden storage pockets for fishing equipment

Individual tackle box storage space for easy storage

Four foot pads on the bottom to reduce wear and increase longevity

Frequently Bought Together

Looking for specific info, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Start Selling with Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Host an Amazon Hub
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Outdoors | Why trekking poles are the most underrated…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)

• Fall Colors
• Water Sports
• Snowboarding
• Winter Sports

Things To Do

Outdoors | why trekking poles are the most underrated piece of outdoor gear, poles offer ergonomic benefits whether you’re hiking colorado’s alpine terrain or simply walking a rim trail.

Editor’s note: This is part of The Know’s series,  Staff Favorites . Each week, we offer our opinions on the best that Colorado has to offer for dining, shopping, entertainment, outdoor activities and more. (We’ll also let you in on some hidden gems).

The first time I ever used trekking poles, they felt cumbersome, clunky and, at times, downright annoying.

It was February 2017 and my then-boyfriend (now husband) had convinced me to trade a day riding on the slopes in Telluride for a snowshoeing adventure. I had never snowshoed before and recall feeling like a newborn deer, shakily trying to navigate the placement of my large foot apparatuses alongside my poles.

“Right foot, left hand. Left foot, right hand,” I repeated under my breath as I tried to avoid stepping on one piece of equipment or another, and attempted to keep both my balance and my cool ascending several hundred feet up the Jud Wiebe Trail .

I was inexperienced for sure – there are pictures to prove I wore jeans during the excursion – but also frustrated. Why would anyone use these seemingly impractical poles that only added chaos when hiking?

Turns out there are a lot of reasons, from increasing stability to alleviating pressure from knees and joints to achieving a full-body workout. The use of trekking poles increases hikers’ heart rates, several studies have found, and some researchers suggest that it also increases blood flow to the upper extremities .

This last point has recently transformed me into a pole evangelist. When I hike without them, my fingers bloat — and painfully so —  as though they’re latex gloves blown up like balloon animals. With hiking poles, my hands feel great. Simple as that.

My revelation about the benefits of trekking poles is, of course, nothing new. Walking sticks and staves “have been around in many forms for as long as people have been walking,” said Rachel Gross, an assistant professor of history at the University of Colorado Denver and co-director of the school’s Public History Program. Throughout history, walking sticks, staves and canes were also used as tools for self-defense, storytelling and as status symbols .

“In that sense, this is an old technology with new materials, and it looks different but serves the same function as it did before, which is extra support and easing the weight on joints,” she said.

For her new book, “Shopping All the Way to the Woods: How the Outdoor Industry Sold Nature to America,” Gross researched the history of recreational gear and its cultural significance. She said guidebooks from the 1950s through the 1980s suggest poles were historically seen as luxuries – not necessities. Most referred to using a single walking stick and often suggested picking up a piece of bamboo or wood at the trailhead to suffice.

“The terminology is pretty new because ‘trekking poles’ doesn’t exist in any of those materials. Usually, ‘walking staff’ is the preferred terminology from the 1950s to ‘80s. That indicates something important, which is trekking poles are used in pairs and walking sticks and staves are used singularly,” Gross said.

That’s why Gross also credits cross-country skiing, in particular, with helping evolve the accessory from an optional tool to a sought-after commercial product sometime in the late-20th century.

Perhaps not-so-coincidentally, ski poles were also made of bamboo in the mid-1900s, and mountaineers, especially in Europe, sometimes used them to hike alpine terrain. According to Sven Brunso, spokesperson for pole manufacturer LEKI , it wasn’t until 1978 that people began taking their utility seriously.

That year, mountaineers Reinhold Messner and Peter Habeler climbed Mount Everest using a pair of LEKI poles, engineered in 1974 from aluminum. (The company still makes that model, the Makalu, to this day.) Their expedition was notable not only for that, but also because they were the first adventurers to climb Everest without using contained oxygen .

“A lot of people thought using poles was kind of a crutch. That (expedition) launched the platform for us,” Brunso said.

Using poles for everyday hiking and mountaineering took off in the Alps in the 1970s and ’80s, Brunso said, and that may also be where the modern vernacular originated.

“It started in mountaineering and trickled down into ‘trekking,’ which is the European term for what we call hiking,” he said.

Since its inception in 1948, LEKI has created dozens of different poles as technology and materials have evolved. Brunso maintains that the basics of hiking poles have not changed much in the last 50 years, but the company has innovated to make the equipment more comfortable and useful.

One of its proudest innovations was the integration of the speed lock , which enabled poles to be adjusted on the fly. That way hikers can shorten their poles when climbing uphill and lengthen them going downhill to maintain the ergonomic benefits.

Over the years, the company also experimented with various types of grips to alleviate hand cramping, prevent blisters and wick moisture, and created numerous tips to make poles appropriate in more settings, even indoors. Brunso said LEKI sells more than 50 pole models designed for trekking, trail running and Nordic walking.

“It’s all about giving you the feeling you’re comfortable and supported,” he said.

I don’t have a specific brand that I prefer. There are innumerable styles and weights; some fold down to fit in backpacks and others remain a static height. It’s really up to your personal preference and budget, as well as the outdoor activities you plan to use them for.

Brunso, however, said that you get what you pay for in this space. Depending on what the poles are made of, they could be at risk of bending under stress, he said. And if you’re traveling by airplane to a recreation destination, the poles need to fold down to fit in your checked luggage.

He suggested testing or renting a pair at your local outdoor outfitter and ensuring they are the right size before buying.

Or, as Gross notes, there’s always the option to pick up a stick at the trailhead.

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The Adventurist, to get outdoors news sent straight to your inbox.

• Report an Error
• Submit a News Tip

More in Outdoors

Outdoors | Outdoor gear industry facing challenges after “insane” post-pandemic growth

Outdoors | This is the guy you see when no one else can fix your pack, tent or other outdoor gear

Outdoors | Vail quietly planning major upgrades and additions, including gondolas, lifts and restaurants

Things To Do | Your complete guide to metro Denver farmers markets 2024

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

Our travel brands include

Express to Russia

Join us on Facebook

We invite you to become a fan of our company on Facebook and read Russian news and travel stories. To become a fan, click here .

Join our own Russian Travel, Culture and Literature Club on Facebook. The club was created to be a place for everyone with an interest in Russia to get to know each other and share experiences, stories, pictures and advice. To join our club, please follow this link .

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, and to facilitate providing you with services available through our Website. To opt out of non-essential cookies, please click here . By continuing to use our Website, you accept our use of cookies, the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service . I agree