Many of us love having our fountain pen with us everywhere we go. Whether we’re going to our favorite coffee shop to get some tasks done, getting in the car and going on a vacation, or even journaling by the beach, fountain pens are a must-have for any writer.
At one point, you may have found yourself looking forward to a trip, only to realize that you aren’t sure whether you should pack your very best fountain pen. There are many horror stories floating around about how fountain pens leak and even explode on pens, leaving you with stained belongings and a mess that’s impossible to clean up. And you’re right to be concerned about your pen while in the air.
Here, we’ll share some dos and don’ts for when you fly with your fountain pens.
Do Empty Your Pen Completely
One of the most obvious solutions to avoiding a leaking or exploding fountain pen when cabin pressure changes is to simply not ink your pen. By removing any ink and cleaning out your fountain pen completely, there won’t be anything to leak out of it.
Don’t Bring Partially Inked Pens Onto Your Flight
Related to the previous tip, it is especially important that you do not take a partially-filled fountain pen onto your flight. This will likely cause leaks thanks to the changing cabin pressure, so be very careful.
Do Top It Up Before Your Flight
This solution might not be as apparent as the first tip, but it works just as well. You can bring a fountain pen on your flight depending on how much ink it’s carrying. A fountain pen that is completely filled with ink will not leak. This is because there is no air to expand and fill your pen which may result in spilled ink.
Don’t Leave Your Pen In The Wrong Position
Having your pen in the right position can help you prevent any problems during your flight. However, be sure that your fountain pen’s nib is pointing upward in your luggage. Gravity and other pressure will not expel ink from the pen if its nib is pointing upwards.
Don’t Use Your Pen During Ascent Or Descent
Using your fountain pen on an airplane is completely fine. But be sure to use it during cruising altitudes and not during ascent or descent. You want to avoid large pressure changes when using your fountain pen to avoid any mishaps.
Do Keep Your Pen In A Ziplock Bag
If you want to be extra safe and avoid any fountain pen-related accidents while you’re flying, then it may help to put your writing instrument in a ziplock bag. This ensures that in case a spill does happen, none of your belongings will have any ink spilled on them.
The Bottom Line
Whether it’s your precious Pelikan or your trusty Prera that you’re flying with, it’s best to observe these tips to ensure that no unfortunate accidents happen. Fountain pens are sensitive to begin with, so it’s best to prepare for the worst. But if you follow these tips, then you’re likely to arrive at your destination with no leaks and an intact pen.
Happy writing!
Written by EndlessPens Blogger Ramona Kabigting
1 comment
Ejay
Another useful tip relates to the type of fountain pen you have. I expressly purchased a few delightful Opus 88 pens (the pocket and Fantasia seem best since they’re smaller/easier to carry) with their eye dropper fill and all important shut off valve! I close the valve while waiting for my flight, write it dry and then cautiously open it up @ cruising altitude to write away! I then close the valve when they announce beginning descent, write it dry again and wait til we land. Works every time.