HELP with Iraq packing

Matthew

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CX9, CX5, i8
Any help is appreciated in advance. I had asked a similar question a while back, now I have progressed and narrowed down what I need...

Ok so I'm going to Iraq in Decemberish. Unlike last time when I was pretty unprepared and we didnt have electricity, I'm guessing I'll be better off this time.

So I have a briefcase (metal) that is 16.75x13 on the outside, and the top section inside is 15.5x11x1 and the bottom is 15.5x11x1.5.

Basically this briefcase is going to be used to house my Gameboy Advance/Charger, digital camera/charger/batteries/cards, my electronic Persian-Farsi to English dictionary, my iPod/Charger, probably my cell phone, and possibly some other smaller things that are important.

So all that info provided above, I'm hoping to get some help.

I am looking to do a few things:

1) Put a foam insert inside the case. I was hoping to find two inserts, one 1.5, and one 1 inch thick, and then cut holes out for the items mentioned above, but I'm having a hard time. I am thinking about just buying a 2.36 thick piece, putting the pieces in there, and then maybe trying to find a layer of bubble wrap for the top or something...so far this is what I found: Clicky
So any help finding any more solutions to this problem would be great, if you know of any websites, etc.

2) Paint the case flat black (it's silver). I was wondering if you have ever used a specific brand or type of paint that was a lot more durable and didnt flake or chip (i dont care if it scratches or doesnt stay perfect looking so long as it doesnt show the silver through)...

3) Find a padded bookbag. A good one that would fit the exterior dimensions of the briefcase but something that would be say something small enough to use as a carry on, on a commercial airline. I know they have some padded laptop bags with pockets etc, which would be great, im hoping someone has one and can recommend etc. The cheaper the better. The padding is not necessarily a must but definately a big help. I am trying to make sure my stuff goes and comes in one piece as much as possible so multiple layers of protection from shock and sand is better. Something with a padded bottom even is pretty good. Other things will go in here as well that are kind of important but not as damagable...like:

documents (awards, copies of different things so I can get promoted to Staff Sergeant while in the sandbox), toiletry bag (with razors, electric razor, lotion, etc), things to write letters with (envelopes/stamps/paper/writing implements), etc.

Any help or knowledge especially with links online would be great! Thanks so much in advance!
 
although i hope politics stays out of this thread, i do not forsee that happening based on prior experience on this forum.

that said, no matter how or what you pack, be sure to come back in one piece!
 
i would have to say anyone that starts talking about politics in this thread is an idiot. i have two other threads they could post in and this is just about backpacks and whatnot...

if anyone wants to post about politics pm me and i can give you the links for other threads...

that being said, thanks AGAIN in advance for any help on my search! :D
 
Have fun defending what freedom we have left from the people who arent even trying to take it away.

You should go back and read that oath you took
 
As far as foam is concerned, use the same s*** that is used on wrestling mats... It's higher density and a lot more shock proof than anything else. You can find it @ home depot in 2' squares I'm sure of it.

As far as the other stuff, I suggest an internal frame pack with weather proof zips. go to EMS, and they will have more sizes than you can think of. advice: It is not worth it to buy a cheap bag. It will break, and not to mention all your s*** will be screwed with sand, water, etc...
 
Matthew said:
i would have to say anyone that starts talking about politics in this thread is an idiot. :D

immediately followed by;

Rism said:
Have fun defending what freedom we have left from the people who arent even trying to take it away.

You should go back and read that oath you took

i love this forum.
 
bah, its expected from him, he's on ignore already so i didnt even see that till you quoted. lol.
 
that might be a bit too much. that is probably the least important part of the three things i listed...because it will almost constantly be in the bag...
 
Matthew said:
bah, its expected from him, he's on ignore already so i didnt even see that till you quoted. lol.

whoops. sorry for bringing that to your attention then.
 
Matthew said:
Ems? whats the name of the foam you mentioned, do you know?


EMS= Eastern mountain sports... not sure if you have them on the west coast, but it is a higher end camping/ outdoors shop. REI or the north face would be another option if you are familiar with them.

Sorry, but I dont know about the name of the foam... I know its 1.5" and is more glossy than traditional foam (if that makes any sense). It also withstands a lot more pressure. just ask anyone @ HD for high density foam and they will get the right stuff for you.
 
thats ok, i pmed antoine so he can see what i am talking about, about forum trolls and yet people complain about me...

anyhow, /threadjack + thanks!
 
appliance epoxy paint is pretty durable. Easily found at home depot. How you prep the case will make all the difference in it not chipping though.
 
if im anal about it ill sand with a medium grit sandpaper, clean it with alcohol, spray with a primer specific to the material (metal, plastic, etc) sand the primer, clean it again, and finish by spray a bunch of light coats.

Although some paints suggest it is fine to forgo the primer, and i often will, as long as the paint is suited to the material.
 
I'll be there in Jan. or Aug. depending on what company they send next.

How does it go, hooah?

Good luck.

Semper Fi
 

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