I've been reading the thread on the weather and the go-no go decision with interest. I just started Phase I tests and am really looking forward to those cross countries.
On my second test flight I had problems transmitting on my panel mounted com, and the handheld radio I had with me made this a non-issue. In that vane, I'm wondering about what to pack and what to leave behind? For example, do you carry a spare inner tube and hand pump? What about PLT's, survival gear, tie down straps and anchors, tools, spark plugs, oil? I hate getting caught without the right wrench or screw driver. What's most important?
John
My airplane does not leave the airport traffic pattern without the following:
Tool Kit (with 1 spare spark plug and hardware)
Tie Down Rings
Tie Dow Rope
1-quart of oil (I will buy oil before I use my qt but have it in case there is none for sale)
Minimal first aid kit
2-space blankets
Ka-Bar 2000 is in tool kit
My long cross-country flying I always keep in my mind what the Basic VFR requirements are. If Wx drops to minimum VFR, have a plan (or two) to divert including a 180 to nearest airport. Know how to use the Nearest feature on the GPS and your backup GPS. Know how to get airport info for the unplanned airport out of your book, map, EFB, and or GPS.
I use my IFR approach certified for primary navigation. I use the VOR in the SL30 always tuned to a VOR somewhere ahead of my flight. I also have a backup 396 handheld GPS. I know how to get airport info from both GPS units and out of the iPad / iPhone / EFB.
When it comes to X/C flight, my friends know me as "Chicken" and I like that because I do not want to be know as "Dead Duck".
The more X/C flying you do, you will get a "gut" feeling and know when not to go. If you do go take a look, DO NOT fly in conditions that are NOT VFR unless you are IFR rated, proficient, and cleared to by ATC. Always be ready to divert even if that means a 180. If conditions are less than perfect, never let your fuel level go below 1/2.
Know how to use Flight Watch. If you have multiple radios, keep 122.0 tuned on the spare at all times. With the SL30 as comm 2, I always am listening to 121.5 and 122.0.
If you do not like the way Wx looks in front of you, the 180 back to the airport behind you may be the safest thing.
Time to Spare, go by Air.