Slashdot Mirror
International Field Engineer Travel Tips?
ShamelessHero writes "I was recently hired as a Field Engineer, deploying servers, workstations and peripherals to sites around the globe. I try and travel light, but try as I might, the Emergency Repair Kit has ruined three sets of luggage so far. I know there are Slashdotters here who travel internationally and through some treacherous environs. What are the best travel tips you've come up with? Recommendations for durable, light yet large luggage are much appreciated."
One of our biggest problems right now is how to move money internationally.
All the banks we've discovered have big fees and numerous anti-customer arrangements. How do you write a check in Euros or Brazilian Reais? How do you move one currency to another without paying a bank a huge amount?
We need ATM cards that allow withdrawing money in the currency of the country in which we are working -- without paying the large fee banks charge, or the "3%" currency exchange fee that is, in fact 5%.
Pelican or Seahorse case. Seahorse is about 1/2 price of pelican w/ approximately the same quality. Personally, I use a large pelican case for my checked luggage. A giant (12" x 18") emu (not EMO!!!) decal proves I'm a TSA trusted air-traveler. FedEx (or use preferred parcel delivery service) your tools and equipment ahead of time if possible. Other tips... Make sure you take a licensed taxi. Although traveling 105 MPH through Seoul was thrilling, and the selection of 10-year old music videos was humorously satisfying, you may have to explain the $150 charge claimed on your expense report. If you frequent airport hangars, or similar restricted areas, don't wander far...underpaid soldiers with expensive weapons do not joke around. Don't exhange currency in airports...they often provide the worst rates. Look to your local banks, as they can provide competitive rates. Become acquainted with the local customs and make an effort not to be an ignorant. You may be rewarded with an all-night, all-expenses-paid party featuring gorgeous english-students from around the world, soju and gamjatang.
You obviously don't travel OS much. I find if I want my tools to be at my destination before I'm scheduled to return home, then I've got to carry them with me. I travel around SE Asia, usually working in remote places. So you're going to guarantee that one of the following will happen: 1) no-one will sign for your stuff in a hotel 2) customs agents will hold up the shipment. 3) it will go missing if it's valuable. I'd rather pay the excess baggage and duties (cough...) than waste time searching for my stuff, especially if I don't speak the language.