Arrive at your airline check-in counter at least 1 1/2 hours before your scheduled departure. Be sure to bring picture ID and a credit or debit card. Many airlines do not have enough cash to make change and prefer you use cards.
Store the lacrosse stick in a long duffel bag. Label it with a luggage tag that has your name, address and cell number. Be sure to include any arrival city addresses, such as hotels you will be staying at, on the tag.
Check the lacrosse stick at the check-in counter. Different airlines have different rules and fees. For example, Continental's policy regarding lacrosse sticks is to accept one lacrosse equipment bag and up to two lacrosse sticks per customer in place of one checked bag. Anything over this and Continental charges excess baggage fees up to $50.
Get your checked baggage tags at the check-in counter. Ask the agent to staple them to your boarding pass sleeve. Do not lose these, as they are your ticket to ensure you do not get stopped for taking the wrong bag and to assist the airline should they lose or delay shipment.
Board the aircraft with the sticks checked in and in the baggage compartment.
