ann_nyc

I'm leaving in 3 days for a volunteer vacation in Mozambique. We won't be on any small planes or in landrovers, so there is no requirement that the luggage be soft and/or wheel-free.

I was planning on taking one 25" soft-sided wheeled suitcase, plus a smaller wheeled bag for donations, but a friend just warned me that I am liable to have my suitcase slashed open with a knife, and that a hard suitcase is mandatory.

I really want to avoid using a hard suitcase, simply because they weigh so much, and you can't expand them to the desired size.

I'm having enough trouble packing as it is! We have to bring our own bedding and towels, and I'm also trying to pack a tent (not needed for the primary trip, but needed for a weekend excursion).

As far as clothes go, unlike a safari where laundry service is generally available, and if not you can wash things in your sink, I'm visiting an orphanage that has only 1 hour of cold running water per day, so it is not that convenient to do laundry. We aren't allowed to hang wet clothes inside because of the mosquito hazard, and if you hang them outside at night they will be stolen.

And since the diet is primarily rice I'm also trying to bring a bunch of protein bars, and fiber bars, etc.

In any event, my packing quandry already had me frustrated, and now hearing that I shouldn't use the suitcase I had planned has me a little bit overwhelmed. Is it really that bad?

Also, my trip is via Amsterdam to Johannesburg, then an overnight, and then a flight from Johannesburg to Pemba. Will I have to pick up my luggage in Johannesburg?

ShayTay

Yes, I'd say you'd have to (and want to) pick up your luggage in JNB. I'd want my luggage with me on an overnight stay and also wouldn't want it sitting around the airport all night. I know that in JNB you can get your luggage wrapped in plastic and that might discourage thieves. I don't know about Mozambique or in the States, though. Did you friend say where they thought your case would be slashed? Amsterdam, perhaps?

Gritty

Given all of the extra things you need to pack for the sort of trip you'll be doing, maybe you should just use the soft-sided suitcase and risk it. Chances are you won't get your suitcase slashed upon arrival in Joberg, and once you leave Joberg for Pemba you can wrap it in plastic if you feel the need. Your suitcase won't be the only soft-side to go through Joberg--mine just went through there 4 weeks ago and nothing happened to it. I saw lots of others that went through just fine.

Wow, what a trip you're taking! I'm very curious to hear how it turns out. I hope you can bring the tent along--where do you plan to use it?

ann_nyc

Thanks -- I knew I could count on my Fodor's friends for some feedback.

One more question: I know that TSA agents can open the TSA approved locks, but can one also use these locks outside the US? If I can't lock the bags, then having them hardsided wouldn't stop someone from simply opening it up -- no need to slash it open anyway!

sandi

ann_nyc

Re the TSA approved locks, for which the agents in the States have keys... not so in most other countries.

If agents elsewhere have to get into your bags, the lock will probably be broken.

Nowadays, I only use cable ties to secure my bags during travel and when out of my room/tent. They're inexpensive (pkg of 100 costs a few $$... Bed, Bath & Beyond, or a local hardware store) And, I keep a nailclipper handy to snip these open.

Some people use the TSA locks once in-country to secure bags when out of their room/tent.

Of course, if anyone wanted to get into my bag they could, but not much you can do unless you dress them in shrink-wrap!

What an interesting trip. Can't wait to read about the adventure on your return. Safe travels.