Many people make the mistake of assuming that packing for a mission trip is similar to packing for a vacation. It's not. The key to being well-prepared is to organize yourself and make a list. The following guidelines will help get you started.
Location, Location, Location
What you will take with you on a trip to South Africa can be much different than what you might take to Nicaragua. Do some research on the place you will be going to and try to determine what you can expect in terms of the following:
• Climate
• Conditions
• Your accommodations (will you be staying in homes, huts or tents?)
• Access to plumbing
• Nature of work your mission involves
As you consider each of these points, others will come to mind. Add these to the list and try to determine what you would need in order to operate smoothly in each situation. Imagine yourself in a humid, tropical climate with boiling temperatures and constant rain. What if you were sleeping in a hammock in a grass hut? What would make it easier to care for and educate children? You get the picture. As items come to mind, make a master list of things to pack.
Clothing
No matter where you are going, a pair of comfortable shoes is a must. A pair of flip-flops are great to wear when showering. Comfortable shirts should be appropriate for the weather you will be experiencing. Be sensitive to the cultural values in the area and avoid wearing anything that could be offensive. Bring several pairs of shorts or pants, extra socks and underwear and over clothes such as sweaters, jackets, rain jackets and windbreakers according to the climate.
Personal Items
It is important to be thorough when packing personal items such as medicines and toiletries. First, make sure you pack your Bible. Next, prepare a bag with any medications you require as well as standard first-aid treatment and routine cold care medicines. Examples of these are Tylenol or Motrin, Pepto-Bismol, antiseptic ointment, cough drops and vitamins. Next, pack standard toiletries and add moist wipes, washcloths and antibacterial gel.
Other Items
Bring items that will help make your mission trip more enjoyable or that will remind you of home. Pack a camera. Other helpful items are pictures of your family, an alarm clock, a flashlight and bug repellent. Though you are unlikely to have a lot of time on your hands during your mission trip, it is a good idea to bring reading material.
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