**NB: Okay, editing this again on 29 Feb. Probably won't change much. Have fun packing 35 :)
*Note: If any of you are group 33, check this again in a week or two for a more detailed, complete list. I'll put websites and names for everything at least decent, and double check to make sure I've accounted for everything. I want to get this up just in case any of you are looking around right now. I know I was super frantic and anxious when I was getting ready. And you come in less than a month! Ahh!! I'm so excited!! May try and sneak down to meet all of you! Just kidding PC...I would never do such a thing. Ever. Hopefully I'll get asked to come down since I'm in charge of something you'll be so happy I'm in charge of :)
**If you are curious about anything, feel free to leave a comment and I'll try to get back to you or find me on Facebook, etc. Just remember, it may take a day or many :)
Okay, I'm going to make an entry detailing my packing list. I know this helped me out a bunch while I was preparing for service so it's only appropriate I do the same in case others are searching for something like I was. I'm going to try and break it down into categories like so:
1) Glad I brought it and probably can't be found here.
2) Brought but could likely get here.
3) Didn't bring and bought here.
4) Extra stuff that I brought along just because.
5) Stuff I wish I didn't bring.
6) Things I wish I brought.
I'll throw in a section header then list items with hyphens. next to the item I'll put the number in brackets (that's what they call parentheses here) and then a website if there is one of where I got it or the company that makes it. Under all that a little description of my thoughts and some vain attempts at humor.
Example:
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Gear:
- ExPed air pillow (probably 2 but also expensive) (http://www.exped.com/exped/web/exped_homepage_na.nsf/0/1F03B6D93DD3ED26C12576BD00811741?opendocument)
So nice to have when you're traveling. Blow it up, lay down and rest. You deserve it.
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Before you buy anything check out the peace corps wiki site. I'm assuming if you came across this you've probably already found it but just in case, here's a direct link to their page of discounts (some sweet schwag on there for sure!) as well as some other sites I used to shop around on:
http://www.peacecorpswiki.org/Volunteer_discounts
www.steepandcheap.com (SO awesome!)
www.rei.com (chances are you may get a gift card here, sucks they don't do discounts...definitely a huge selection of stuff to spend it on, if you're a member even better though doubtful you'll get a chance to spend the dividend unless you have it sent to someone...which I will, can always use more climbing chalk lol)
They also have packing lists for all the countries, and plenty of other info you'd love to know about. You get all this stuff and more when you accept your invitation but it's just nice to know things ahead of time in case you come across sales or other bargains. Mostly just ask around at retailers if they do discounts. Chances are if they do discounts for military, teachers, etc. you could probably swing a discount for peace corps as well but just note you may need a copy of your official invitation or something of the sort.
Maybe I'll come back and go through all of this and give a more up-to-date version when I finish service but being here 5 months (omg that long!?) I think I have a decent idea. Enough stalling, here we go!
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Peace Corps guidelines: Limit two checked bags and two carry-ons (one + personal item).
No more than 80lbs total; no one bag weighing more than 50lbs.
Total dimensions (length + width + height) of checked baggage may not exceed 107 inches;
dimensions of the larger piece of checked baggage can't exceed 62 inches;
total carry-on dimensions can't exceed 45 inches.
Perhaps most importantly, you should be able to carry everything you bring, for a good while. I'm not talking a mile....but definitely be able to lug it around an airport, be able to lift all of them somewhat because you never know where you may end up putting them. Unless the policy has changed, PC doesn't give you your own small boy so you'll be doing all your own work (you'll get the joke when you get here).
Honestly the international airlines didn't care too much and PC didn't even check during staging. They just told us it's our responsibilities to make sure we're okay (I hope we're all adults...PST may say otherwise though...). I was checked on weight when flying domestic so mine we're okay for the international check but I know some people didn't even have theirs checked during domestic flights, or pay. It just depends on your luck and charm I guess. Being in a big group saying you're all volunteers flying to [country X] to do [type Y] work probably helps somewhat. Get ready for some layovers! And safe travels wherever you may be heading!
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Checked Bags:
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Ecko Duffel (2) and GoLite (2) (http://www.golite.com/main/home.aspx) in laundry bag
I got the Duffel bag from Ross, it's really sweet actually. Has a little compartment in the bottom that I put all my rolled up clothes in and then a main one where I put all of my gear like my tent, sleeping pad, etc. For the GoLite bag I know a lot of you are paranoid about straps getting ripped off and have probably found your own way of dealing with that. What I did was clip everything up and pull all the straps tight, used all my belts to wrap it up, then I put the bag in an "industrial strength" laundry bag from Wal Mart (eek gags, I know, Wal Mart). Between all that and tying up loose ends (sadly only literally) the bag made it safely with no straps getting ripped off.
Carry Ons:
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Dakine backpack (2) and Guitar (2...but expensive and hard to get)
Carried all of the papers PC gave us (a lot!), my netbook and some reading material in my backpack. Also plenty of stuff to keep me busy during the LONG plane ride and lengthy layovers. PACKED my guitar case in every space I could. I used t-shirts to "pad" my guitar and filled the front pocket with lots of rolled up clothes. Even in the spaces on the inside, I didn't waste room; it was kind of funny as my case was actually kind of heavy. I ended up checking it at the gate so it was like 3 checked bags! Score! Super Awesome!
Here's a picture so you can get an idea.
Clothing (assume clothes are a 2 unless otherwise stated, they have a mall here in the capital):
- 4 dress slacks
Bring cotton or something that breathes, I have a pair that don't breath and they are awful to wear. In fact I don't wear them.
- 7 long sleeved button down shirts
They said don't bring white but whatever. I'd say lighter colors as they don't attract the heat as much (to my knowledge at least...).
- 3 polos and 1 button down t-shirt
Awesome because they're like dressing up but still a bunch cooler than a full button down. We have also ordered a couple embroidered ones with group number and names, etc. Something to think about when you arrive in country.
- boxers and boxer briefs
Bring lots, they'll wear out and you always want to make sure you have some clean ones, especially if you're like me and get lazy with washing your clothes. If nothing else, why would you keep a pair for when you get back? You really want to come back to 2 year old underwear??
- 3 shorts and 1 cargo pants
They're nice to wear when you're out and about, Namibia is named after a desert after all...it's hot here, pants just because I wanted a pair.
- They said don't bring jeans, because no one wears them, that's a lie and it's totally cool to bring a pair or two, I hear they're a pain to wash though. I had my mom send me a couple.
- Honestly, I'm in dress slacks 5 days a week during the mornings and in shorts/pj's the afternoons. Weekends, shorts. Even during the day but at night my pj pants for sure in the winter. Summer...well, let's just say as little as possible ;)
- 3-4 t-shirts
Brought some to wear going out, some for running, pj's, etc. Also got personalized group t-shirts. The logo was designed by a guy in our group that is a graphic artist and the shirts are sweet!!!
- 4 pairs of running shorts (2 elastic, 2 drawsting)
Elastic will probably wear out...especially with all the handwashing and sun drying. Great for exercising and wearing around the house.
- Okay, elastic has held up, drawstring has worn out.
- pajama pants
I actually put these on during rainy season! And they are so comfy! I'm so freaking happy it's cold during rainy season but I also have yet to sleep under the sheets. And during the dry season my pores are raining like Vic Falls (some place you should visit while here!).
- I bought a pair of sweat pants here, not hard to find.
- 2 swimming trunks and those booty short speedo trunks and goggles,
There are pools scattered around...sort of...you'll definitely regret it if you don't have at least one pair (or something) to jump in with, plus there's Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Luderitz that are on the coast! A pair is definitely nice. Also, vacation, hello?
- dress shoes
Bring them, you'll wear them on certain occasions when you want to dress up and look respectable (like swearing in as a volunteer). Other than that, you probably won't wear them much. Unless you're a baller like Edward. Hat off to you sir.
- Tevas/Chacos (Is there any substitute?! make it a 1 sir!)
I brought a pair and wish I had three. Great sandals, you get a discount, just bring at least a pair, you'll regret it if you don't. Okay, probably not but I love mine.
- flip flops
Maybe bring a nice pair with you, can get the basic cheaper ones here unless you want to drop the same amount of cash you would back in the states for less of a selection and probably quality...plus in the States you can get those discounts I mentioned from Chacos or Teva!
- 2 pairs of Toms shoes (lol!) (1 though that's just preference)
Hey, they're comfy, and light, and seem to be holding up (a little expensive for what you get but their cause is pretty good so I'm down...secretly hoping to see some kids wearing them here and have a Toms Shoes dance party). Plus they support a good cause and if you get the blank canvas ones like me you can decorate them! (but then probably a lot harder to "dress them up" like I do.)
- yes, I know how horrible they are with development and how much of a hypocrite/poser I am. Whatever, they're comfortable slippers that I can pass off as shoes.
- Hiking shoes
Yeah, if you're wearing these and not your Tevas/Chacos, you're insane, or can at least tolerate heat much better than me which isn't saying much. Waste of space and weight for me, I will probably trade mine away at some point. I'm big on being light and agile so I don't wear shoes anyway (you've picked up on the rock climbing hippy right? I've worn sandals with a suit before....yep, that awesome). Definitely go for a light pair that is ventilated.
- 4-5 ties
Always nice to have, and you'll bust them out on certain occasions, plus they take up like no space, and you can give 1 or 2 to people that forget them and need to dress up (...Matt)
- scarf
I'm a baller like that so I brought one. I've actually worn it with my polo on some chilly mornings, actually was kind of nice and saved me from carrying a jacket/hoodie around all day (...though it became incredibly hot within hours).
- Scarf is SO nice for the winter on cold mornings!
- thin light hoodie, like super thin (as in handwashing has destroyed it...along with the thorns that cover EVERYTHING here)
I wear this thing way too much, did so in the States, and even more here, it's white so keeps my brown skin cool. I wish I had a lifetime supply of these.
- black Hawai'i sarong (1...because it's from Hawai'i.....)
Hanging on my curtain to help reduce sun penetration (insert sexual comment here) but would be a nice decoration regardless, they also have things called Shitenges here which are almost the same thing, just a more durable material (make sure you hem it up when you get one, don't want crazy fraying)
- a few bandannas
Always can be useful, cover your mouth/face when windy (sand), wipe stuff up, I'd bring some, filter for water when you're throwing in iodine tablets....
- 2 black pillow cases
I had like 40 at home...literally, (told you to stop sending them Mom). They can double as cloth bags for whatever.
- belts
Have a couple leather ones. One of them has holes all the way around, definitely nice to have if you lose weight...which you probably will at some point...or gain weight and need to keep your un-buttoned pants on. I also have a webbing belt, one that you just pull tight. Very handy as you're weight may be all over the place.
- hoodie, light fleece jacket (1, because it's CU! Go Buffs!! And the GoLite jacket quality may be hard to find here...plus it's also CU colors muahahaha!)
Both super awesome and great to have, there are times when it's pretty cool and a hoodie is perfect....plus it makes me realize how much I miss wearing them all the time and the snow back in CO.
- compactable rain jacket
It's just smart to bring this going anywhere with a "rainy season"...and I've definitely been caught outside and happy I had one.
- couple beanies
I am lazy when it comes to my hair...and this saves me the trouble....so does braiding your hair, or shaving it.
- few pairs of dress socks
Wear them with my dress shoes (obviously) and my Toms shoes (probably not obvious), classes them up a bit and let's be honest, dress socks are light, soft and all-around really comfortable....what's not to like?
Gear (you can actually get a lot in the capital but it's expensive and most of it is not as high a quality as you can get in the US...though I lived in Boulder so I may be picky):
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- money belt...that I never wear (2)
If you want to look like that awkward tourist go for it, not my style but people find them useful. I just keep all my extra money/passport/etc. in it and put it somewhere safe. If I go traveling I'll take it out and keep it on my person.
- sleeping bag liner (http://www.designsalt.com/index.asp) (2...but expensive)
Freaking awesome, it's like portable bed sheets, I will always have one for the rest of my life
- air pillow (probably 2 but also expensive)
Doubly awesome. So nice to have when you're traveling. Blow it up, lay down and rest. You deserve it.
- Camelbak with 2 pouches (2, also expensive)
Oh yes, very nice. Confuses people so much too when they see one. Also brought a little pipe cleaning thing.
- Nalgene (2)
Get one of these or a nice stainless steel water bottle, not that aluminum crap that has a liner which will go to crap on you and you end up drinking the stuff and get sick (I'm not bitter....I swear), something that can get banged up and you don't have to worry abbot ingesting weird chemicals
- tent (2)
Bring one if you have it, you can get some here but the selection isn't as good as back home, it's great for visiting people (just through up the tent in their homestead) though if you're cramped on space not as big of a deal to bring as I'm sure it would be in other countries.
- sleeping pad (2...I think, maybe 1) (http://cascadedesigns.com/region.aspx?brand=msr)
If you like the comfort and plan on sleeping outside a bunch, also nice when visiting people. A lot of people use yoga mats as well. I have both and it'll probably just depend on the type of camping I'm doing and for how long. Also, how much I want to carry, I've gotten lazy and just slept on the floor with a pillow in the people's sites that have houses.
- hammock (I think a 2 as well, but don't remember seeing any so maybe a 1)
Do it! SO freaking nice. I don't have mine set up at site but used it during training and when traveling. They're great to relax in or even use as something to sleep in so you don't have to lug around a sleeping pad (and tent if you buy one of those nice hammocks). I suggest a portable one as mine isn't exactly that portable and I wish it were more so.
- climbing shoes (1) and running shoes (2)
Running shoes if you run, maybe even two pairs...as for the climbing shoes I just couldn't resist...you know, just in case....
- headlamp (2)
For sure, so nice, it's great for reading, walking around, pretty much anywhere you would want light and not have to carry something.
- hand grip squeeze things (4)
To pretend I like to have strong forearms
- cheap pocket knife (2)
Good to have an all purpose knife you don't care about
- needles and thread (2)
Can get here but if you have them bring them, don't take up much space and you will be mending clothes if you know how, or getting someone to do it for you
- elastic bands (4)
Meh...might be handy later? I think I'll make a bag and they'll be useful for that.
- CPR masks (4)
Had a few, figured why not, could give them out, they're also key chains so helps keep my keys together
- leatherman and nice knife (2...but very expensive) (http://www.leatherman.com/category/multi-tools)
Yes, double yes, triple yes, quad....you get the idea, freaking handy everywhere in the world...that includes here.
- nice and crappy multi tool (2)
Gave one away, probably going to give the other away/trade it for something
- Mag-Lite (the one that's about the size of a fat Sharpie) (2...I think) (http://www.maglite.com/)
Always nice to have a flashlight, never know when electricity goes out...(more like never know when you'll have it...)
- MSR water purifier (1....*maybe* a 2 but I wouldn't chance it if you hike a bit) (http://cascadedesigns.com/region.aspx?brand=msr)
Great for camping/hiking and for when you run out of "good" water....also been using it at my home because the water tastes like rain water (also incredibly rich in limestone I think....as in it'll crystallize if left out for a while)
- hand crank flashlight (1 maybe? but mine broke....so N/A)
Batteries are a pain and expensive...mine broke on the way here but I don't think it was too high quality and I can probably fix it I've just been lazy.
***Also was told that Freeplay Energy doesn't make the Scout radio anymore, I really wanted one :( But there are lots of places that make solar/crank powered short wave/FM/AM radios that also have a flashlight and other things attached.
- sunglasses (2)
I brought a couple pairs that are nice but not expensive from REI (US$20)
- Peace Corps gives you a mosquito net and Med kit, if you bring one you will look like an idiot (they tell you they do so and what's in the med kit before you even come to staging...)
Electronics (most will be a 2, hit up the capital, but VERY limited selection and VERY VERY expensive)
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- netbook (2) with an extra battery (1 as the rating system I have going, not one battery)
GREAT idea, small, light, not obviously a laptop when you carry it around in a bag (less chance of theft...just saying), just awesome and very useful
*Also bring any extra computer things you may need, restart discs, jump drives, software installs, etc.
- external hard drive (2)
Definitely get one before you come here and load it with music and movies (how you obtain them is up to you...) you WILL be happy you did this. Plus it's great to back up your computer with as that thing can crash/get stolen/fry/dust and sand/etc. and you'd be screwed. You'll take lots of pictures if you have a camera or steal all the files if you don't (or do so anyway from the group photographer)
*It's a good idea to download everything you would need if you had to re-install everything from scratch. I say this because internet and especially downloading things here is a huge pain and takes a while. So keep a backup copy of all your installs (or come find me or an IT volunteer, because that's what most people do anyway...well, find an IT volunteer, I'm a little off the beaten path).
- Lumix camera! (2)
Are you going to come and not at least bring some sort of camera??
- 4BG flash drive (I brought) 8 GB flash drive (PC gave us! so awesome!) (2)
Great for swapping stuff between people and easier to carry than your external
- solar scientific calculator & TI-83 (with guides) (2 I think for both)
I teach math...
- iPod nano(probably 2)
iPod nano is nice for running or biking
- ear phones (2)
I have like 4 sets of the "free" iPod ones
- couple cheap electronic watches (2)
Used them for running but I have a cell phone (crazy right?!) so I just use that for time, not bad to have a sporty one though for running and using the stopwatch
- I wish I had a Kindle and/or Samsung Galaxy Player (the PC version of an iTouch)
Toiletries:
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- cologne (I would say 1...but that's just by judging a colleague's cheap cologne)
Let's see how you smell a few months into service...
- 3 toothbrushes (4)
Just in case
- alum block, face lotion, oil, feather straight edge razor, extra razor blades (1)
Yes I shave with a straight edge, though I've been getting lazy and using disposables somewhat here (especially when I don't shave for a long time).
- 2 mini-toothpaste tubes, floss, 2 mini-shampoo bottles (4)
Very nice when traveling but PC gives you floss here.
- nail clippers (toe and finger), tweezers (4)
General hygiene maintenance....
- collar stays (1...?)
Had them (the free extras you get with shirts) figured why not.
- towel (3)
Don't waste space and weight bringing one unless it's a nifty micro-towel(wish I had one of these), really it's just a big piece of cloth that absorbs water and you can generally get that anywhere in the world...
Miscellaneous:
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- journals (2...I have a nice leather bound one)
Nice to have if you use one, if not you might end up using one since you'll have lots of timeon your hands. My friend gave me a moleskin journal and I'm totally enjoying it! I use it for all my Peace Corps stuff, meetings, training, etc. Nice to have it all in one place.
- world map (2)
Great to show people where you come from!!
- origami, hemp braids, and other crafts (2...maybe)
Great way to pass time while in a car/combi/bakkie/lorrie/etc. (unless you like sleeping for 3-12 hours in a car with strangers...)
- The invitation packet and a book or two (1 for the packet, duh, books you can get here but again limited selection)
Same as above for those that don't get car sick, or even while you're standing out there waiting for a ride and the packet has all your papers in it that you'll want/need.
- Okay, maybe 1 or 2 books max. Bring it for staging and the plane rides. You will swap with other people during PST and the PC lounges have a BUNCH of books.
- Lonely Planet Guide (2)
Awesome to have, will definitely get used unless you don't like getting out and seeing things....(and you joined the Peace Corps why?)
- you might be able to snag one from someone who's leaving. Then again, maybe not.
- prayer book and rosary (4...people wear rosaries as necklaces here...)
Better safe than sorry. You never know when you'll find religion.
- 2 pairs of prescription glasses (1)
You're allowed one replacement then you have to get your own
- dice and glass beads (1 because I have more than just 6-sided dice, Lv. 12 Dual-Wielding Ranger what!?)
- Good resources for math.
- calligraphy tips in case with exacto knife (probably a 2)
I was trying to look for these the other day and can't find them :( They would've been nice for letters and making crafts. Also been making stuff for school or crafts and the knife would've been nice to have.
- broken necklaces (....)
Fixed them or made new necklaces out of them when bored.
- frisbee disc and 2 hackey sacks (haven't seen any sacks here...zing! so 1,I think I've seen discs though)
Easily portable fun! Throw it around or get a game of Ultimate going, kick around a sack or play some games. Always fun and even if you can't talk to the kids you can show them what to do! Language a barrier? Better start busting that idea down!
- slackline (1 for sure, haven't seen any webbing anywhere)
Haven't put it up anywhere but I think it'd be a good way to pass some time and hilarious to watch my learners experience one, I doubt they ever will again in their life
- Mesh Bag (probably 2)
I keep my toiletries in here when I travel,nice because it airs itself out and doesn't get gross
- pens and pencils (2 because I'm particular)
I have really only used one pen for the past 5 or so years, sure the occasional I'll grab this and use it, but I've only bought the same pen (Uni-ball Micro what!?)
- stationary, stamps and pictures (2 but I'm particular again, you can only get US stamps in the US...as far as I know.)
I write my letters on it, I like that personal touch you can buy your own here. As for stamps, you can address letters and slap on some US stamps and give them to people that are returning/traveling to the States to just dump in a mailbox. Pictures are great to put up around your room. Plus people like seeing them and it allows you to do some cultural exchange.
Guitar:
- 3 sets of strings and lots of picks
- capo and tuner
- backpack straps, shoulder strap and neck button
Yeah, if you play an instrument, plan on bringing what you'd need until you return to the States. Strings/reeds/etc. can break so bring extra and throw in all the accessories you need or may want.
Host Family Gifts:
- 4 necklaces from Hawai'i, Hawai'i sarong, bought some stuff in country that I thought would be helpful for them (nice kitchen knives, anything you think would help out...you've just lived there for a couple months, there has to be something). You don't know who they are until a couple weeks in so stick to gender neutral things if you're bringing stuff though chances are you'll have a host mom. I don't know if anyone didn't.
