It's Coming! One day and one night left

One whole day and tonight left.  I decided to pack the case today and it all fitted - but with several things left behind. You know, you always take too much and when you get there you tell yourself never again, but do the same.

So, this time I got rid of some stuff.  However I also have a few gifts that I won't have on the way back so it should be lighter.

I also have the camera kit and tripod (the monopod with legs is not working - the legs fold up and don't lock any more). I tested the tripod in Imber and it was okay, but I did have the scooter and I wasn't walking much with it.  The reason I wanted the monopod is because there are only 3 clips to extend the leg, whereas you have 3 clips x 3 legs on the tripod.  Also a little lighter and smaller. It is as non-spontaneous pain.

As far as weight is concerned, there is a dilemma, though.  Thai Air allow 30kg London to Bangkok.  They used to run the Khon Kaen route, and it was 30kg.  But end of last year the Thai Smile (allegedly a different company after splitting from Thai Air) now runs the route, but only give 20kg. I spotted this after buying the ticket, and having made a mistake with the return flight, the cheap ticket became dearer following a revision charge.

Before, it was easier. Same carrier, one web site, one booking.  This one involved finding a slot near to arrival but not too close due to reasons mentioned later.  Thai Smile have already changed the time slots by 10 minutes for my flight, luckily it is in my favour on the way out but not on return.  It will give less time for re-check in but hopefully it should be smoother outbound as there isn't as much customs.

My main suitcase is approximately 21-22kg. I have a rucksack of presents plus my camera case and separate tripod.   Basically, I will put money on them trying to charge me money for over weight baggage.  I know what the system is like.

There is little choice for Bangkok to Khon Kaen unless you change airports. Then, Air Asia are cheap but charge per bag per kilo, so that could be expensive.  I think Smile also run from the second airport too, but there is also Bangkok air which are quite good, Nok air (another budget airline) as alternatives.  The transfer would be best by Taxi and is a fair way, I know because I have driven it or by bus.

However, this time as per every other, I am staying put in Suvarnaphumi.  I have a tight window of 4-5 hours to transfer, which is pushing it.   There's customs, baggage reclaim, check in (domestic) and security again all while being wheel chaired through by customer service assistance (who generally don't speak English).

The video blogging will begin in earnest, Wednesday at 6am.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJP-J-gQyhfZ7BA8xabCvQWLjtJyjbOdR

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