We have all talked about gun cases over and over but what about suitcases. I would like to get a good suitcase that will stand up to the abuse of the baggage gorillas. You guys that have made multiple trips what have you found to be the most durable and value based suitcase?

I used a Filson duffle bag on all 3 of my Safaris. On the last trip I used the largest wheeled duffle they make.

I used the Patagonia MLC [maximum legal carryon] as my carry on bag.

i use a cabelas bag that has a hard bottom seperated from the soft top. Fragiles go in the bottom, clothes etc on top. However if you want total protection from the gorillas I believe something from 1" plate steel would be in order

Sniper:

Good question. On my first trip over, I had a rolling Boyt duffle that worked well. However, on the ride to the Port Elizabeth airport, gasoline from extra fuel cans in the back of my PH's truck sloshed around and soaked a portion of the canvas duffle and some of my clothes. We then scrubbed and rinsed like mad prior to the flight home. I tossed some of the clothes away in the bathroom. SAA, was not happy about the residual smell, but fortunately let me board. This was pre 911, and I don't think they would allow it today.

With this in mind, I wanted a bullet proof case for my next trip. 500 Grains on AR suggested either a Pelican or Storm case. I have a Pelican rifle case so I know what they are capable of. I will be going with either the Pelican 1650 or the Storm 2950 or 2975. While heavy, I am willing to pay for overweight charges, if necessary, for the peace of mind of total protection.

Check out www.cases4less.com and www.midwestcasecompany.com

I have found that these two sites have some of the best prices and selection.

While not inexpensive, either case is practically indestructible and guaranteed for life.

Good Luck.

RCG

PS. I forgot to mention that you can buy them without foam packing which won't be needed for this use of the case.

Sniper- go to the Pelican site. Check out the 1610. I use a scale bought at a local feed store. The case alone weighs 20 pounds, which gives you 30 on most carriers. It has been posted here and elsewhere that a 100-200 baggage charge is a tiny fraction when viewed with all your safari costs. The 1610 is bombproof. Can get by with 30 on most trips, especially if I load up my carry-on.

I have used one of these Stanley Rolling tool chests on 5 trips. They are lockable, nearly indestructible, light, relatively inexpensive, easy to haul through airports and protect the contents very well.

Perry

I think an important factor is whether you will be utilizing a Charter Aircraft to get to your camp. If so, in most cases, a soft type bag will work the best, especially if you are not the only passenger on the small plane.
With regards to protecting your luggage after you are on the ground, I always bring several large trash bags and place all of my luggage into them. They keep the dust, dirt and liqiuds off of your belongings until you are in camp.

Sniper,

Check it out - I believe the are the best cases available today.

http://www.militarycases.com/DownRangeGallery.html
http://www.stormcase.com/NewsStormCase.htm

Good luck,
Roland

Sniper,

A wheeled duffle IMO is the only way to go. Having used several different bags I don't think the expensive bags are any better/durable than the less expensive ones from LL Bean etc. Sadie has a God awful orange thing from LL Bean that has been on the same trips as my Filson. it cost half as much, has compression straps does not scream there is really expensive stuff in here and is easy to spot when looking for our luggage.

Mark

I second Mark's comments about the LL Bean luggage. I have a set that my wife and I bought 10 years ago that has seen some miles all without any problems. I have had one or two straps get ripped off and I just called LL Bean, mailed it back and they have fixed them free of charge. Excellent quality for the price.

I don't trust the soft bags. Include a lightweight duffle or two and tranfer gear for the charter if needed. I have had the outfitter provide these duffles for charters also.