Carnet De Passage and USA insurance
 

I'm from the UK and i'm buying a bike in New York and driving to S America. I'm confused about the situation with Carnet requirements. Can I get a Carnet for a vehicle registered in the USA to travel South? Do I need a Carnet? Also, how do I get insurance for the USA leg? Do I really need it (I know it's a legal requirement!). Thankx for the info.

Hello

You don't need a carnet for your trip.

Thought you might like to know that buying a bike in NY can work out pretty expensive. They make you pay sales tax on private purchase, and if your address is in NYC, then they gonna charge you a load of 'useage' taxes.

For insurance, I would recommend Progressive (online). Don't tell them that you will be travelling around. I did, and had to wait till the quote I had expired from their system before I could get another.

If you need a good mechanic, check out 'Prospect' in Brooklyn. Ask for Mayo. He's from Guyana, and was over the moon when I bought my bike in for a pre trip overhaul.

Happy travels

Check the links page also for insurance companies other travellers have used for US insurance.

As for carnet, no you don't need it - but don't fly into Ecuador without one. From Panama go to Peru or Venezuela.

Tip: Do a little looking around - this is a MUCH discussed topic, you'll find plenty of info. Use the search facility, you'll be amazed.

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Grant Johnson

Seek, and ye shall find.
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One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

You don't need a carnet to fly into Ecuador.

Ricardo Rocco has sorted something with customs. It's an easy process, and if you contact him, he'll not only help you through it, he'll probably take you out for drinks too.