Don’t forget the Binoculars

There’s a world to see out there. If you are one who desires to and can travel, more power to you. There is great preparation and planning to be done with every trip. We all want to begin confident that any and all in the party gets to the destination and have what is required for a trip with minimum trouble. To be sure, there are always glitches to contend with, but a good deal of thought and planning takes care of most needs.

It is good to make a list and check it often. Most lists include a passport, camera, cash or its equivalent, clothing and the like. Often, the item not on the list is a good pair of binoculars. However, this writer would suggest you consider adding this item.

Let me share a story about a couple who rather serendipitously received a gift of a trip to Costa Rica. The trip did not necessarily include any planned nature or birding activities. However, this couple made a smart move—they decided to go prepared, just in case. After some research, she bought a Vortex Fury, and he, the Vortex Diamondback. And how did they make use of these on their trip! There were several occasions when this couple became the envy of the group as they were often sharing their binoculars with others.

Even after this big trip, they continue to carry their binoculars wherever they go. On a short trip to the Texas coast, they were able to easily bird the area marveling at the Roseated Spoonbills, Sandhill Cranes, Great Blue Herons and the like. Even then, there were a few who asked what they were seeing through their binoculars and asking “how do you know all the bird’s identity?”

Plan carefully, travel, take advantage of every opportunity, and—don’t forget the binoculars.