Quick notes on travel

On January 5, 2012 I'll be on a flight to Managua, Nicaragua.  I've learned a lot along the way.  This post will reflect the small bits of knowledge I've picked up along the way.

First, check the State Dept. site for the entry requirements for the country you're visiting.  Delta checks your paperwork at check-in and if you're missing anything needed for entry, they'll refuse to let you board the flight.

If possible, find a good website dedicated to the country you're visiting as well (for Nicaragua, that's definitely NicaLiving.com).

ALWAYS do your research.  Even after about a month of research, I learned this morning (even AFTER purchasing my ticket!) that Managua will only accept ONE checked bag because of my arrival date during a tourist season.  Only found out because I read the full and very detailed Delta Contract of Carriage ( http://www.delta.com/legal/contract_of_carriage/index.jsp ).  I don't believe I actually saw that directly linked from ANYWHERE during my ticket purchase.  I'm going to ask at the desk if I can check both bags... this ought to be interesting :)

Also, you CAN take an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) on flights with you depending on your airline.  Or should be able to.  Most modern UPS's use (and are clearly labelled) "SEALED, NON-SPILLABLE BATTERY."  Including my APC's lead-acid battery.  :)  Called some Hazmat hotline I found in a travel doc and the guy pointed me to this document.  Hopefully you'll be able to find it if the link dies.  It's called "Shipping batteries safely by air" and it's important to remember that the UPS makers don't want to have to spend extra worrying about whether their shipment method follows all the necessary regulations, etc.  So for me at least, it'll work as long I'm under the 50 lb. checked luggage weight limit!  :P

For Nicaragua, you should have at least USD$50 in cash on you and proof that you can support yourself during your stay... I don't know what that means so I'm just going to bring printed bank statements and hope that's enough.  Certainly I'll be posting on here again if it's not!  The USD$50 is for your visa, "tourist card," and the guy to help you through customs.  At least in Managua, they can be a real pain.

Be sure your baggage is tough.  I can't tell you how many stories I've read about people with crappy baggage that fell apart after a couple trips abroad.  My bag is a Zuca Pro.  Lifetime warranty, can be used as a seat (good for check-in and security lines at some airports), metal frame, great wheels, really tough, fits in overhead bins, and it's $65 cheaper in pink!

I'll add pictures later but hopefully this helps someone out!  Please feel free to leave a comment or email me if you have a question.