Packing lists are somewhat personal. What I would pack for myself wouldn’t be something that you would need. That being said, as I start my service I’ll keep updating the page.

Updated packing list:

Frequently used:

• Notebook: It’s handy to have during PST when you’re inundated with so much information. Also handy after PST when you have stuff to plan and words to pick up and thought to jot down. Mind you, there are Senegalese notebooks but they have tens of lines that are overwhelming to the senses. (attach picture of Senegalese handbook)
• Hydroflask: Hot season is uncomfortable. Like drowning in your sweat uncomfortable. Having an insulated flask that stores ice for 24+ is miraculous.
• Large camping bag: You think you won’t travel a lot once you’re in country, but boyo is you wrong. During PST you move in and out of the training house into your host family, and during service you travel for trainings, visit friends, have a life etc. Hauling a suitcase through the ankle deep sand doesn’t cut it.
• Essential oils: None can be found in country. They also come in clutch during soap making if you want perfumed soaps.
• Microfiber towel: packs well, dries fast and much easier to wash.
• External battery packs: Having low battery and no outlets/electricity is not a mood.
• Converter (that has USB ports): You can get converters here. BUT you cant get one with USB ports that charges, your kindle, your phone and your laptop all using one converter.
• Kindle: I go through about 4 books a month. Physical copies are nice but all that weight.
• Backpack: I carry my laptop, notebook, planner, external charger, kindle random groceries, hydroflask, misc what have yous everywhere. I need a backpack.
• The myriad of pens of I brought with me: I like stationary. I prefer certain pens. I brought my favorites.
• 2 TB External Drive + pen drive (32GB): You’re going to get bored at site. Sometimes its great to put on a movie and just relax. Having a pen drive makes it easy to transfer files and puts less strain on your external drive.
• Laptop: something cheap (not too cheap that you have trouble with space or running important problems)
• Journal: Keep track of how you change throughout the years
• Caribiners: I attach my keys and my water bottle to my backpack straps
• Good trail running shoes: Ok, so this one is a little specific. I was not a runner before this country (IDK if I will be once I leave haha. I hate running) but you have SO MUCH free time on your hands that you start to work out
• Planner: yearly, monthly, weekly which ever floats your boat. Or you can be new school and use google calendar
• Predownloaded spotify playlists, podcasts, Netflix shows, youtube videos,
• Predownloaded apps: maps.me, credit karma (you want to keep track of your credit), spotify premium,
• Waterproof fanny pack: I don’t do purses. Plus I dare someone to try and steal my stuff when its right on my chest.
• Adapter
• Lucci Lights/Solar light
• Shower flip flops
• Toothbrush caps
• Toiletry container
• Speakers

Here’s a handy dandy google spreadsheet link for the image below!