Most sports equipment flies, but almost none of it fits in the cabin. Golf clubs, skis, snowboards, bikes and surfboards go as checked items, usually with their own fee or a special allowance that replaces a standard bag. Camping stoves and fuel canisters are the real problem, because any trace of fuel grounds the whole item.Small gear is where the surprises are: trekking poles, ice axes and most fishing tackle are checked only, while helmets, rackets and balls ride free in the cabin. Each item page below gives the verdict for both bags and notes the airline fees that apply.