I recently traveled with a regular hoop. The only modification -- it wasn't permanently secured to the connector on both ends. One end of the tubing was not secured to the connector so that I was able to connect and disconnect it as desired. I did have to sand the ridges down some on the open end of the connector. I used duct tape to secure the connection when hooping. When traveling I disconnected the one end and double looped it as much as I could and secured the loops with bungie ties. I was able to carry it on the plane and place it in the overhead compartment. So you could order a hoop from Philo or one of the other local suppliers and request that one end not be permanently secured. --s--

I have two collapsible hoops. One was made by HoopGirl and the other by a lady in LA (maybe BodyHoop)? The BodyHoop one is fancy in that it has two rotating connectors that allow the hoop to collapse without disconnecting anything...but it is just a bit heavy and sometimes doesn't stay perfectly round when you happen to catch the connector in just the wrong way while hooping (seems to happen to me while shoulder hooping). The HoopGirl hoop just has a smooth (no ridges) connector and a piece of electrical tape that I use to secure the join when I'm hooping with it (otherwise it will fly apart...I've done it :-) ). I find that I prefer to hoop with the HoopGirl one. It fits in my large suitcase on top of my clothes, so I don't have to carry it on.

i found a great collapsible hoop at www.bodyhoops.com LOVE IT!

I have bought 2 collapsibles from Kaivalya Hoop Dancers, I think the website is KaivalyaHoopDancers.com. They are really great and Sunfire will tape them up just how you like them. They break into 6 pieces which are connected by a bungee and it's perfect for travelling b/c you can break it into a bundle or put it in a triangle to wear over your shoulder. I have brought mine to Brazil, Holland and all over the States.

Anyways, they are $45 plus about $10 shipping. All of my friends have one too - it changes your life having a collapsible, it's so much easier.. The only drawback is the more you take these part, the looser the connectors get and if you aren't careful they will get loose and slip out while you are hooping. It is best to take it apart and put it together as little as possible for this reason. I also don't let anyone do it but me, b/c you have to really twist them apart to keep them tight.

I will bring mine to the Sunday gathering if you want to check it out. I really love it though.