OK, lots of posts (sorry). Last year I had a trip completely ruined when they lost all of my carefully prepared equipment (Turks and Caicos). I have vowed to never check equipment again, which is unrealistic considering the penchant for cavity searches by the good old TSA.
I would like to send a package to Bonaire a few weeks before my trip and pick my stuff up when I arrive. Any thoughts on this practice? Where would I send it to, we may be renting an apartment instead of staying at a resort.

Hi Tim, I think the shipping option might take more than a few weeks.. try months!!! I sent a Christmas Card the end of November one year and the recipient never got it until June.. I would not trust shipping my equipment.. JMHO YMMV
I am sure others will chime in on this topic...Good luck

I would'nt, I think that you'd be home from your trip, before your gear got to Bon!! If your gear is delayed, just rent. I wouldn't personally let my trip be "completely ruined" by any baggage mishap,,, c'mon,,,,, your in the Carribean!!. I used to carry on lots, now just my mask, cameras and bathing suit (dive related stuff that is). Only had to rent twice in many years 1-1day,and 1-3 days. Relax and have fun!!

I too would not ship equipment. That asks for big trouble potential. Checking it as your baggage is far more reliable. Check on equipment insurance from DAN.

hey,
there is a shipping agency on Bonaire called Rocargo. Shipped many times via this agency but from Bonaire and not to. Whatever I shipped did arrive but always delayed. and I would not call it a bargain.

Not advisable Tim. You're really much better off with checking your equipment with your air carrier.

a recent letter to the editor in the reporter talks about having something fedex'd from japan...one or two days japan to curacao....nine days curacao to bonaire. ridiculous.

I've shipped Christmas packages and mailed regular cards, from the States. The packages take weeks to months and the cards, well, that is hit or miss. Sometimes they arrive within a few months, sometimes they never show up. I'm actually thinking about sending my Christmas stuff in September this year. Maybe it will arrive by Christmas...maybe not.

I carry all my gear but fins on with me...

shipping by Ezone is app $3 per pound...takes a week from your door to mine..email me and I can give you details. Disclaimer..I don't make any money by offering to let folks use my address. Just make friends!

I also pack ALL my dive gear in my 21 inch rolling carry on. Even my toothbrush and bathing suit. Don't care about much else. No worries that way, do put it in checked luggage, well except the reg with computer, on the way home. Lydia