Your probably away at the moment, but would like to hear how you got on regarding the bags. I've used ExCel out of Bristol for a number of flights and have always managed it but packing most of the camera gear and getting the extra diver allowance.
Charles
I use a ND rucksack (free from Diver Mag some years ago). I put the Sea&Sea housing with (glass) dome port and camera in place in the bottom with various diving computers packed in the space made by the handles. Then a layer of foam followed by my spare camera with two spare lenses on top with paperback novel. My Mac iBook fits in the front pocket. The side pocket takes the leads and chargers and back-up memory sticks. The net pocket carries drugs I might like to self-dminister during the flight and toothbrush. the whole lpot weighs close to 15kg!!! I put my other ports, flashguns, arms, chargers in the bag with my clothes. My dive bag is now officially classed as Sports Equipment.
I used to put one Subtronic flashgun in my rucksack also but US security (TSA) get excited bout me reoming the batteries and I have to make a big show of removing the battery from the camera in the housing while passing the flashgun. It has worked ten times but I am losing confidence in doing it again.
I have learned to carry my heavy rucksack during long waits in line. It is heavy but at least I am not expected to kill anyone when I get to where I'm going!
