luggage
 

We are going to South Africa, Zambia and Botswana from May 4-27 2008. Our travel agent said we had a 25 lb limit because of the smaller airplanes used within the countries. Duffle bags have been suggested. What brands and sizes have you all used? What type of carry on have you used?

I just returned from those countries; my limit was 20 kg, not 25 lbs. I used an LL Bean duffel bag and it was fine.

In Botswana, you will probably be flying in small 6-seat Cessnas. The luggage is placed in a pod under the plane accessed by a small door that's only about 10 inches high. If your duffle bag is too square, it may not fit through that access door. I use Rick Steves' Convertible Carry-On bag for all my African travel. Because it meets carry-on size standards (9x14x21), it will easily fit in the pod and can also be carried on international flights.

Did the agent say 25/lbs or 10/Kg. 10Kg = 22/lbs. I believe for travel thru Bots and Zam on small planes is 10Kg (22/lbs) and they're very strict about this. If overweight, you may have to pay for another seat, if there's space. Sometimes a bag is left behind for another flight. You just never know, so keep to the limits.

Do a Google search and you'll find plenty of sources for online purchasing of soft-side duffles. Otherwise, check TJMaxx, Target, Walmart, Costco... these always have some supply of small duffle bags. Prices are often less than $30.

Oh, and that should be duffles WITHOUT Wheels.

Thanks, for the answers. She said 25# but I will try more for the 22#.

I also used an LL Bean duffle.

I have always taken my backpack for clothing etc and a lowepro computrekker daypack for my camera equipment (and other emergency type meds) and never had an issue.

Geoff.