Hi Robert,
I've been to V31 a few times, including a trip with Jay, K0BCN, to operate
CQWW. Jay has operated from there a lot, so most of this comes from him:
1) Try not to use the word "antenna" with the airlines or TSA. Post 9/11,
they will give you lots of grief if you do. Try to call it "sporting
equipment" or "aluminum tubing". Don't lie, just say enough to get you
through.
2) I'd second the recommendation for using a hard ski case. They're common
in the airport this time of year, so won't raise any eyebrows in the
US. There are lots of fishermen going to Belize, and some carry their rods
in ski cases, so that won't seem so strange either. ( Hence the "sporting
gear" description. )
3) Belize customs can be hit or miss. Most of the time they wave you
through, but sometimes you'll have to stop & talk to them. In theory,
they can make you pay an import fee for your gear, but I've been able to
get out of it the one time they tried. It helps if your gear looks
used. Have your US & BZE licenses handy.
4) You can assemble the antenna with rivets held in with electrical tape.
No need to pop them, if you're going to take it apart in a week. No need
to bother with screws, either.
5) Don't try to leave the antenna disassembled for next time. It will
probably be corroded up by the time you get back.
6) Belikin Stout is good stuff. :)
73 & Have a good trip,
Mike WQ5C / V31MQ
At 01:43 PM 2/7/2007, Robert Brandon wrote:
>I'm planning to taking a Force 12 C-3 to V31 for ARRL DX CW. I'd be
>interested in anyone's experience in packaging it to check with an airline.
>
>
>
>
>Thanks,
>
>Robert K5PI
>
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