I am going on my first safari to RSA for plains game on May 14. So for the next few months I am going to be asking lots of questions. Is it better to take film with you or buy it in Jberg same for the power converter. Does anybody have a link for Optima. My gun of choice will be a 375JDJ TC Contender pistol. I am shipping everything back to be mounted in the states except for my Zebra. About what can I figure per animal to have the horns and capes to be shipped back. Thanks for your help and any tips will be appreciated.

Ideas to consider-
1. Buy film here as the prices in J-berg are high. Better yet - go digital. Take 500 pictures as a minimum. Take time when taking pics of animals - take lots of pics.

2. Shipping horns and capes - use Carol Rutkowski at Coppersmith in Dallas. They are pros. Pricing is by weight and size of shipment. Expect to pay a dip/pack fee of about $50 per animal, then about $1500 for air frieght. Ocean freight is cheaper but potential for spoilage is greater. Call Carol to get details. Let them do all of the paperwork for you.

3. Most of all, listen to your outfitter. They will be experts on everything except airfares.

4. Have fun and do not worry too much about getting the "best deal" - there are no "best" deals. You get what you pay for.

Good luck.

If your going to take a film camera carry the film on the plane with you, DON'T let them put it through the scanner, it could wreck the film. I always take it out of the plastic containers and put it in a plastic see thru bag. This way there's no questions as to what you have. And don't buy it in J'burg, buy it in the states.
I agree on the shiping, it will run you about $1,800.00 when it's all said and done...
Have a safe & great trip! Shoot straight!!!!

a couple good replys.....
Make sure you know the baggage limits.....what you're allowed in pounds and parcels....carry on and to be stowed. also make sure that you know the airline's rules about transporting ammo.....with or without the guns!!!

On the way home you'll want to bring gifts and you should plan for that going.....I know folks that left their clothes there except for what they was wearing so they had room to bring back gifts...
Have a ball...it's a good time!!!