Packing

- Make a checklist before you pack to avoid forgetting anything 

- Do not bring valuables or anything you would be upset losing 

- Pack items that are lightweight, drip dry, wrinkle-proof (knits, permanent press,  cotton) 

- Dark colors are practical (show less dirt) 

- Take interchangeable items - mix and match; each item should coordinate with others easily 

- Don’t pack anything you may only wear once or twice

- Use plastic bags - separate wet and dry, clean and dirty 

- Pack T-shirts to wear under other clothes - then wash the T-shirts only 

- Rolling your clothes allows you to pack a lot into your bag, lets everything be seen at a glance, and eliminates some wrinkling; another option is to pack clothes in  Ziploc bags (squeeze the air out before sealing) to save space 

- Pack all liquids in tightly sealed plastic containers or Ziploc bags

- Pack according to the probability of use. Keep things you will need most often on top

- Pack camera in your carry-on to avoid high-power (and possibly damaging) X-ray machines 

- Carry packed luggage around the block before you leave to experience what it will be like in airports and train stations abroad. Repack if it is too heavy 

- Carry a couple of photos of your luggage (separate from your luggage): it will help to explain lost or stolen luggage to airport officials

- Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends in case of emergency

- Make sure you receive a claim check for each piece of luggage you check

- Do not use curbside check-in services, as luggage is frequently stolen in some areas 

- Make use of baggage checks (airports, train stations) during layovers or while  sightseeing in cities

Packing and Equipment Website Suggestions:

• Jansport

• Kelty

• REI

1. COMFORT: Good walking shoes, appropriate attire, etc. 

2. CARE: Easy-care clothing, no dry cleaning or clothes needing ironing 

3. COORDINATE: Mix and match, try out layering! 

4. CONSOLIDATE: Have the basics for 1-2 weeks. You will be able to  buy toiletries and other items abroad. Consider battery-operated  appliances, if necessary, or go without. 

5. CARRY: Pack only what you can carry and maneuver on your own. 

1. Heavy bags are burdensome and restricting 

2. You will be much safer if you can easily manage your bags 

3. You will need room to bring back all you have acquired abroad 

4. You will be surprised by how easily you get by with the bare essentials

5. You will be a better traveling companion if you are not complaining about heavy luggage 

6. Airlines have 50lb. limit per bag. CHECK WITH YOUR AIRLINE  before flying to avoid a fine; don’t come close to this - you will not be able to lift it 

7. If you intend to ship items to your program site, you are planning to take too much