Share Your Packing Suggestions
RPCV Health Crusade needs your packing suggestions and ideas. Applicants, Invitees, and Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) keep asking for suggestions. They want to know how to pack and what to take. Despite being entirely volunteer run (and self-funded), we decided to help assemble a list and house it on this website so that it is available to everyone.
When we left for Peace Corps service, we packed a variety of things. Some were useful. But, some were not. And, there were things we wished we brought but didn’t. Let’s work together to create an effective list for the next generation of volunteers (or international travelers).
It can be overwhelming trying to prepare for 2+ years in Peace Corps service. There are so many things to consider. Where can you store your things until you return? What do you need to do before you leave? Are there things you need to learn? What should you prepare for? RPCVs can help lighten the load on one piece of the puzzle.
What you need could vary greatly from one host country to the next. It could also vary according to what is available within walking or easy traveling distance at your assigned service post. Your needs could also vary according to your service project and secondary projects you decide to take on.
What About the Peace Corps Packing List?
Peace Corps has a general packing list designed for different service countries. Check the individual country page on the Peace Corps website. But invitees and PCVs want more than this generic introductory list.
There are certain items you will get from Peace Corps during training or during service. However, which items Peace Corps provide could vary by country. And, there may be differences between lists based on who or which policy is in place.
Can You Buy Items In Country?
You may be able to buy some items in country. But which items are available and how much they cost could vary greatly by country. Keep in mind that there may be limited options of personal healthcare items available in country for volunteers of color.
If items are available in country, they may not be your preferred brand or made with the same ingredients or materials. Is that brand a must or are you good with experimenting? And, there are some items that are not available in country. Can you live without them?
Let’s Assemble a Helpful List of Packing Suggestions
We don’t want the PCVs to wait until they arrive in-country to figure out what RPCVs already know. It is easier to take things with you than to have them shipped to you later. The focus is less on the type or amount of clothes and more on all the other items that were really needed and well-used. So, let’s work together and give these invitees (and other international travelers) a good head start in packing for Peace Corps service and other international travel needs.