Global Staci

Pack light!  For several years now I’ve limited myself to carry-on luggage. This saves me time, money, and possibly a delayed or missing bag. I only bring what I can carry without any help. Occasionally I may have to do laundry, or pay someone to do it for me, and buy products in-country, like larger bottles of sunscreen. This has always been a better option.

[PRO TIP: If you are doing any type of specific travel—a volunteer vacation, safari, cruise, whatever, check with your team leader or organizer to ensure you bring the right gear! Oftentimes that dictates your packing routine.]

Luggage

I use a Tumi International Expandable hard carry-on suitcase and a black Mountain Hardware backpack (handy for distributing the weight and having your hands free) or, depending upon where I’m going, a black Tumi tote bag that slides down the telescoping handle of my suitcase. I also bring a small cross-body bag that will fit into my backpack or tote bag, which I mostly use once I’ve arrived at my destination.

[PRO TIP: Nondescript, beat up and boring-looking bags are less attractive to thieves (I know this from experience)!]

Weight limits for international flights are generally different from domestic flights, so be sure to confirm with the airline.  Usually, these limits are even less for safaris or if you are flying on small aircraft.

For easy access, I put these things into my backpack or tote bag:

• Electronics (phone, tablet or laptop, noise-canceling headphones)
• Chargers, batteries, converter/adapter
• Passport and or driver’s license
• Wallet, cash, credit cards
• Paperwork including itinerary, prescriptions, and copies of passport
• A small bag with toiletries, eyemask, earplugs, hair ties
• Medications and basic first-aid supplies
• Eyeglasses and sunglasses (and repair kit)
• Book or magazine
• Change of underwear (and clean shirt if it fits)
• Empty stainless steel water bottle
• Notebook or notepad and pen
• SHOUT wipes
• Deck of cards

[PRO TIP: Download podcasts or movies in advance of flying.]

Clothing

You’ll need less than you think.  Wear fabrics that wash and dry quickly or use a laundry service. Think about layering and wearing your heaviest clothing and shoes on the airplane.

Obviously, you’ll pack according to the type of trip, and the weather while you’ll check in advance. Your clothing will also need to be culturally appropriate. No matter the occasion, choose comfort.

[PRO TIP: Consider whether you can leave things behind, which will lighten your bag as you travel or allow room for shopping and bringing things home.]

This is a fairly comprehensive list of things to consider; pick and choose accordingly.

The Basics

• Hat for sun and or rain protection
• Raincoat, windbreaker, and or umbrella
• Fleece, pullover, or sweater
• Daily work and play clothes (things that mix and match well)
• At least one “special outfit” for a cultural outing, a nice restaurant, etc.
• Undergarments, socks (I love wool that can be worn many times and doesn’t stink)
• Sleepwear (will you be sharing a room?)
• Sturdy, comfortable shoes (boots heels, sandals, or flip-flops if appropriate)

Personal Care

• Body wash, hair products
• Laundry detergent (if you’re planning to wash clothing)
• Dental care, lip balm, lotion, sunscreen
• Cosmetics, Q-tips, deodorant, feminine products, etc.
• Tissues, toilet paper, wet wipes (if recommended)
• Towel, washcloth (if recommended)
• Hairbrush

Personal Items

• Prescription medication (kept in the pharmacy bottle)
• Over-the-counter pain reliever, motion sickness meds, etc.
• A written copy of your prescription in case you lose the medication and need a refill
• Small first-aid supplies, antiseptic, a few band-aids, etc.
• Insect repellent (if recommended)
• Prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and cleaning supplies
• Watch (a cheap one that can double as an alarm)
• Travel alarm clock (yes, I still use one!)
• Sunglasses
• Refillable water bottle (if recommended)

Paperwork and Money

• A money belt, fanny pack, or small purse for carrying a few items when out
• Passport, airline tickets, immunization record, in-country contacts and itinerary
• A copy of all important documents
• ATM, credit card, cash

Miscellaneous Items to Consider

• Swimsuit
• Binoculars (great for safari)
• Earplugs
• Games, cards, puzzles
• Favorite snacks
• Small bag for dirty laundry
• Duct tape
• Flashlight/headlamp and extra batteries
• Resealable plastic bags
• Universal adapter and/or converter
• Solar camping shower, mosquito nets (if recommended)

ONE MORE BRIGHT IDEA!  Consider taking clothing or hats with the logos and names of your Alma Mater, professional association, civic organization you belong to, or anything you would want to be photographed in so that you can promote your experience.

GOT A LITTLE EXTRA SPACE?  Check out Pack for a Purpose, a non-profit with the mission to “positively impact communities around the world by assisting travelers who want to bring meaningful contributions to the destinations they visit.”