Tips on Baggage & Packing Smart
Light, flexible packing makes domestic flights far easier:
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Checked Luggage: Standard allowance is generally 15 kg (33 lbs) per person in a soft-sided bag. Overweight? You can purchase extra kilos/lbs or reserve a second “freight” seat to carry up to 75 kg (165 lbs).
- Pay-Per-Kilo: If space allows, you can purchase extra weight, typically USD $2–$5 per kilogram (per 2 lbs), subject to aircraft capacity.
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Assistive Devices: Foldable wheelchairs, crutches, and medical aids travel free of charge; let us know in advance so we can arrange proper handling and storage.
Packing tip: Always double-check weather at your destinations. Lightweight layers and quick-dry garments save weight and adapt to everything from cool mountain mornings to hot savannah afternoons.
Check-In & Airport Protocols
Airstrips in East Africa differ widely in infrastructure. Here’s how to breeze through check-in:
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Arrival Times:
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Small Airstrips: 30–45 minutes before departure.
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Regional Airports: 60–90 minutes before.
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Documentation: Keep your passport, ticket confirmations, and any required visas or permits accessible. Your Back to the Source Tours guide will handle this process for you.
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Luggage Tagging: Verify your bag is properly tagged to your final destination, especially on multi-leg itineraries.
You will have your pre-departure instructions in advance, and we will handle your online check-in where needed. If any changes occur—weather delays or aircraft swaps—we’ll contact you directly via WhatsApp or phone.
Managing Delays & Schedule Changes
Flights can shift due to weather, operational needs, or passenger loads. Our approach is:
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Proactive Communication: We monitor flight status hourly and alert our clients to any changes.
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Flexible Alternatives: If your connection is missed, we’ll rebook you on the next available flight or arrange a private transfer if feasible.
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Refund & Re-Routing: In a cancellation scenario, we negotiate refunds or credit vouchers on your behalf, so you don’t have to navigate complex airline policies alone.
Your peace of mind is our priority—simply stay reachable and we’ll handle adjustments.
Luggage Storage & Overland Options
For multi-park circuits—such as a gorilla trek in Bwindi followed by a beach stay in Zanzibar—traveling light makes sense:
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Secure Storage: We can arrange to store excess baggage at your first airport lodge for no extra cost, letting you pack only what you need for each segment.
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Combined Transport: Blend road travel and flights to soak up local scenery; for example, drive the scenic route from Murchison Falls NP and Queen Elizabeth NP to Bwindi for Gorilla trekking and fly back to Entebbe.
This hybrid approach maximizes both comfort and cultural immersion.
Responsible & Comfortable Travel
Back to the Source Tours champions sustainable travel:
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Carbon Offsets: Ask us about reputable programs that offset your flight emissions.
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Soft-side Luggage: Choosing duffel bags over rigid cases reduces weight and eases loading on small aircraft.
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Local Support: Every seat you book helps employ local pilots, ground crews, and guides—strengthening the communities you visit.
Ready for Take-Off?
Complete our travel form with your dates, group size, and special requirements. With that info, we’ll craft an East African flight plan tailored to you—precision-booked, expertly coordinated, and backed by our 24/7 support.
From savannah to sea, let’s make your journey unforgettable—while keeping it smooth, safe, and sustainably responsible. packet.
