IN FOCUS
OLIFE THE
THER ON
WEIGHT WATCHERS I carry lots of research and photography gear around – expensive cameras, under- water housings, drones – so ensuring my equipment arrives in good condition is always my priority. First, I always have a smile for check-in staff. To work around restrictive carry-on limits, I use a back- pack as wheeled bags get weighed regular- ly and I’d rather avoid that. I carry a jacket to offload lenses and heavy batteries into pockets if needed. I always early board when eligible to ensure my backpack is securely stowed instead of shoved into an overstuffed, overhead compartment.
AISLE OR WINDOW? On flights under four hours, I’ll sit by the window to enjoy the view (and lack of jos- tling). On longer flights, whenever possi- ble, I’ll sit at the back of a compartment on the middle row aisle so I can fully recline without annoying the passengers sitting behind me.
Dr Simon Pierce, whale shark scientist and co-founder of the Marine Megafauna Foundation, on coping with travel to some of the most remote places on the planet
SWITCHING OFF
I used to try to work on planes but, while it can help to stay on top of things, all it takes is for someone to fully recline to create frustration. Now I view flights as time to relax. Noise-cancelling headphones are a much-loved travel accessory; they make it easier to sleep, catch up on movies or gen- erally ignore what’s going on around me.
Protecting research equipment is key when travelling
KEEP IT LOW KEY Crime can be an issue at some airports so I disguise bags that have valuable equipment inside. Many people place photography-re- lated stickers everywhere, advertising the contents. I try to avoid putting fragile gear in checked bags, and pack things centrally wrapped in clothes for reasonable protec- tion. I cable-tie bags shut sometimes and I’ve put stickers on my laptop to make it less attractive to thieves.
ROAMING POWER I use a Google Pixel phone to take advantage of Google’s Project Fi mobile plan, which uses partner networks to achieve near-glob- al connectivity. I travel all over the world and the only countries it hasn’t worked so far have been Oman and the Maldives. I even had 4G in the Arctic! Having an immediate data connection makes it easy to stay in touch with work-related stuff or call my hotel. Data is US$10 per GB wherever you are and your bill is capped at US$60 per month. It’s been a game-changer.
FLY-DIVE?
Pierce studies whale sharks
in seven countries 10 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018
Rapid air pressure changes after scuba diving can lead to decompression illness (“the bends”), so we wait 24 hours after diving before we fly. It also lets me dry my gear and prepare for the next mission.
buyingbusinesstravel.com
DIRECT APPROACH For now, I use Skyscanner or Kayak to find options, then book directly with the airline. Sometimes weather changes our field schedules and we need to alter flights; currently, it’s easier to deal with the airline rather than a third party. If I have to switch airlines on the way, I allow four hours’ connection time. My Priority Pass lounge membership lets me use that time produc- tively, or I just enjoy a shower and a meal.
PLASTIC FANTASTIC I carry a filtration bottle to reduce my use of plastic and because constantly buying water is a pain. The filter ensures dodgy tap water is safe to drink and produces around 150 litres before it needs to be replaced.
A 24-hour wait after diving is essential before flying
SIDE
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