Flying with Gear

Have you ever flown with hiking gear? Personally, I haven't. I have friends who have traveled to Alaska and New Zealand though, and brought a lot of gear with them. I've seen folks in airports with tons of gear, too. It's always baffled me... How do you choose what to bring? How do you do it economically so you're not paying baggage fees? Do they rent some things once they get to their destination? Tell me your flying stories!