There is a good chance you have landed here because you are a passionate hula hooper who also loves to travel! Whether you’re heading off on a tropical holiday, an urban adventure, or a peaceful retreat, bringing your hoops along for the ride can add a dash of fun and fitness to your trip. But how do you travel with your beloved hoops without turning into an awkward circus-comedy act? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some practical, tried and true tips to keep you spinning no matter where you roam.
The Travel Hoop
One of the best inventions of the 20th century is the collapsible travel hoop. There are a few variations on the market, from segmented hoops – which break into pieces, or ones that coil down to a smaller size. (check out our range of travel polypro hoops here.)
These beauties are designed specifically for wanderlusting hoopers and their ability to shift into a smaller size makes them super easy to pack and carry.
When it comes to packing your hoops, a little bit of planning goes a long way. Here are some tips to make sure your hoops arrive at your destination safe and sound.
Pack it up
If you have a travel hoop, coiling it down is your best bet. Simply follow the instructions to coil it down into a compact size. Hoops that are 90cm+ can be coiled back onto themselves and locked back together with the connector. Doing this with hoops that are smaller than that may place too much strain on the pipe so, your best bet is to secure the coil with a velcro strap or a bungee cord to keep it tidy. Then pop it into your suitcase and voila! Just try to avoid putting anything heavy on top of your hoop as you don’t want it getting too bent out of shape in transit.
Check it in
If your hoops are just too big for your case or not going to fit, you can always check them in as additional or oversized luggage. Firstly wrap your hoops in bubblewrap, or pack some extra clothes or towels by using them to buffer and protect your hoop. A good hack is to wrap clothes around your hoops, followed by a sarong or two and then use masking tape to hold it all together. Build up a nice cushion around your hoops. You want to make sure that they are wrapped and secured to avoid them getting scratched, kinked or bent.
Don’t forget to label them – be sure to include your contact details on your precious cargo.
Carry-on
Smaller hoops can often fit in your carry-on bag OR clipped to the outside of it with carrabeenas. Just make sure they meet the airline’s size requirements. This way, you can keep an eye on your precious hoop and avoid any potential damage in the cargo hold.
Now that your hoops are all packed and ready to go, here are some extra tips to make your hooping travels even more enjoyable.
Plan for practise
Look for local parks, beaches, or open spaces where you can practise. It’s a great way to explore new places and meet fellow hoopers or curious onlookers.
Be mindful
Take notice of your surroundings. Make sure you have enough space to hoop without bumping into people or objects. And always be aware of local customs and rules regarding public spaces.
Capture the moments
Take plenty of photos and videos of your hooping adventures. Not only will you have amazing memories to look back on, but you can also share your journey with the hooping community on social media.
Share the circle
Hooping is a universal language of joy and movement. Don’t be shy about sharing your skills with locals and fellow travelers. You might inspire someone to pick up a hoop themselves!
Traveling with hula hoops doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a little bit of preparation and creativity, you can bring your favorite hoop along for the ride and keep on spinning wherever you go. So pack your bags, grab your hoops, and get ready for an adventure filled with flow, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Happy travels, hoopers!
