Airline travel to Africa - experiences?
Jul 6, 2014 14:37:30 #
Jul 6, 2014 16:27:45 #
Just returned from a month of shooting in Namibia, Botswana and Zambia, via South Africa Airways. Starting from Washington Dulles, no issues at all carrying my camera bag (5DMkIII, 100-400mm, 24-70mm, 16-35mm & accessories) plus a moderate size back pack on board for 3 of the four legs involved. UNTIL I was in Joburg returning directly to DC. Because of Premier status with United Airlines (South Africa code-share) I was authorized TWO 23kg bags for checking. No problem until that last leg when (same bag, same weight) was 4kg OVER the 23kg limit. I was told that if I bought another bag and kept each under 23kg, all would be well, but since I didn't, and kept it in one (27kg) bag, they charged me US $65 overweight. Others have told me they had problems with two carry on bags, although I did not. So...hard to tell what will happen.
Jul 6, 2014 22:50:10 #
Went to South Africa last year on South African airlines from the USA and had no problem getting in. But going out my think tank case was too heavy. Same stuff in it. I was forced to to lighten it up. Not a big deal since my under plane luggage was still available. So I just off loaded a few pounds .
Jul 7, 2014 04:23:42 #
St3v3M wrote:
I have even had South African Airlines at Heathrow make me take things out of my slightly overweight checked luggage and put it in my hand luggage despite the hand luggage already being slightly over the allowed limit. It didn't change the total weight I had, but satisfied them. Strange logic!I've never had an airline weigh my carry on baggage.
Jul 7, 2014 04:26:47 #
lazyjt1 wrote:
I have done this as well. Put the heaviest stuff in the vest pockets.I wore a photographers vest with BIG pockets. I knew my bag was over the allowed weight. Filled my pockets with lenses. They weighed the bag, good to go, I stopped and put them back in the bag.
However, it always pays to try and limit the total weight you have - remember you have to tote it around!
Enjoy your trip. I presume you want to see game, and this is great.
Jul 7, 2014 05:54:13 #
Travel Rule Number 1) Take half the stuff you think you will need, and twice the money.
Jul 7, 2014 14:18:47 #
Jul 7, 2014 19:13:35 #
choward_ab wrote:
Thanks for the comments - I have 2 canon bodies, Sigma 150-500mm, Canon 70-200, 2.8, my Canon 24-105, batteries, flash, chargers and cord caddy - weighs in at about 36 poiunds. Then I have my Canon 500mm, f4 all by itself in a backpack. My wifes roller bag is somewhat similar except she has the 100- 400mm. Her pesonal item is a bag with the laptop. Should we be concerned??
As long as it fits and you can lift it into the rack not to worry.
Be aware that the Dar Es Salaam airport is a sketchy place. As are most parts of the city. Keep everything connected to you and don't use the taxis out front.
Jul 8, 2014 20:03:06 #
A few more tips from a multiple offender. I learned from one of the veterans of many trips that if you haven't used something in 3 trips, don't take it again, with the exception of a cheap rain poncho. I leave most of my clothes and sneakers there to be cleaned and donated to less fortunate folks, giving me more room for gifts and souvenirs. I wear older clothes, no one knows you anyway. Good noise cancelling headphones are good for anything except a screaming baby right next to you. Highly recommended. Load up a smartphone, tablet or laptop with ebooks, movies and music that you've been looking forward to. You'll have lots of time...
Jul 8, 2014 20:37:22 #
Most of my stone souvenirs broke on the way home.
Take a warm jacket and knit hat. It gets cold in the am and then again at night.
Don't buy any fancy clothes, just a good pair of shoe. Something that you wear at home every day.
Take a warm jacket and knit hat. It gets cold in the am and then again at night.
Don't buy any fancy clothes, just a good pair of shoe. Something that you wear at home every day.
Jul 8, 2014 22:32:11 #
Mr PC wrote:
A few more tips from a multiple offender. I learn... (show quote)
Add to the list some Ambien or other sleeping aid if you plan on sleeping well on a flight.
A friend travels with and leaves older clothes behind. It's a great idea. In Africa, the kids really like ball caps, tee shirts and pencils.
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