how much gear are you bringing, jeez? I've not really heard of this before. I've heard of bags being left etc...cause of weight, but if everyone packs fairly, it should not be a problem. Do whatever though.
going after black bear? will browns be around? are you going to be on stand over bait, if so .338 is pretty big. If spot n stalk and griz around then sounds about right.
Its not the fact that we are taking a bunch of luggage or anything. Its our first time leaving the USA to hunt and we want to make it as smooth as possible. We figured if we each sent a box with our clothing and stuff to the outfitter FedEx a few weeks prior to the hunt, it would make it alot easier on us thru the airport. I actually heard ofmailing luggage ahead of timefrom watching the OutDoor Channel. The only thing we will will have to carry in the airport is our rifle, passport, ticket, declaration form and not have to worry about packing around a bunch of bags, luggage and carts and worry if our gear will get lost in transit and not make it for our hunt.
As far as the .338 goes, I use this for my deer hunting. I do custom 185 grain loads which works excellent on deer. I should have no problem with bear either. The .338 is an underrated cartridge, its not like I am shooting a 250 gr bullet or anything. I have harvest many bucks with this gun and I am confident in its ability to make the shot when it counts.
The area that we are hunting is known for its color phased bear and should have an opportunity at a Blonde or Cinnimon. I have personally called Ralph Cianciarulo (Archers Choice) and Russ Thornberry (editor Buckmasters) about this Outfitter since they have both used them in the passed and highly recommend them.