Things To Bring #1 - Plastic Storage Box

This is the first installment in a new series of posts entitled the "Things To Bring" where we highlight an object that is worthwhile to pack if you are so inclined to volunteer in Haiti.  Some of these items will be of a general nature, others will be more specific to orthopaedic surgery.  The assigned number has no inherent hierarchical implication.

There is always a need for more equipment and supplies at the Hopital Adventiste d'Haiti so it is a good idea to bring a couple of large containers to hold as much gear as possible.  Some people bring old suitcases and simply leave them at the hospital when they leave.  But these luggage items are of limited value once they have served their purpose as a transport vessel.  I have found that something like the Plano Wheeled Storage Box ($40 from Amazon) to be a  more practical option as it is able to function as a useful storage container for the hospital once the volunteer has vacated the premises.

When traveling to Haiti, American Airlines baggage limitations allow you to check 2 bags each not to exceed 50lbs in weight or 62in in combined length + width + height.  Since we are ostensibly doing the Lord's work, it is acceptable to use the Haitian foot relief maneuver  (big toe under the lip of the scale) when checking in your bags in order to carry more supplies.  

Although the combined length + width + height of the Plano Storage Box exceeds the aforementioned restrictions, I was able to check in 3 of these boxes even after the agent measured them.  

I also appreciated the wheels which make the heavy boxes easier to maneuver.