United Planet Volunteer Abroad Tip #7

A few weeks ago, we posted a graphic that highlighted the top ten tips for volunteering abroad, after compiling advice from our United Planet Quest alumni. We’re back this week to elaborate on the seventh tip. If you are thinking about participating in a United Planet Quest or are about to embark on your volunteer experience, read on!

Tip #7: Pack proper clothing

Because you will be packing lightly when you travel abroad, it is that much more important to pack smartly. The best way to do this is to anticipate the kinds of clothes you will need for the weather, your volunteer work, and any cultural excursions you choose to participate in, and pack accordingly. You will not want to worry about whether you have proper clothing to protect you from the elements or to be comfortable at your volunteer site while you are abroad. A little research before you leave will spare you this headache!

First and foremost, find out what the weather is like in your host country. Make sure to take into account what season it will be when you travel, and remember that seasons in the United States do not always correspond with seasons in foreign countries. Also, remember to look up the rain situation in your host country! You will appreciate having the right rain gear when you arrive. Being stuck without dry clothes can be a miserable experience – but it is an easily avoidable one.

Other things to consider before packing include the type of volunteering you will be doing and the type of excursions you will be going on. For example,  if you are participating in a construction project, you should pack comfortable, durable clothing that you don’t mind ruining. If you will be working with children,  your clothing is likely to get tugged on and stained – kids are messy! Pack items that you are not too attached to. If your cultural excursions involve hiking or if you will be doing lots of outdoor work, a pair of durable hiking boots or sturdy sneakers is essential, even though they take up a lot of room in your luggage. Also, think about whether your volunteer work will require you to be on your feet for long periods of time. If so, make sure to bring comfortable shoes with good support – your feet will thank you!

In addition to packing the correct clothing for the weather, your volunteer work, and your cultural excursions, you may also want to  pack a nicer outfit or two, especially if you are going to be staying in your host country for an extended period of time. It is possible that you will attend an event or function where a t-shirt and sneakers are not appropriate. If you think this is likely, try to pack a simple, fancier outfit that won’t take up a lot of room in your suitcase. Also, take the culture of your country into account when packing outfits. If you are traveling to a location that places a high emphasis on modesty, you should make sure you do not bring overly revealing clothing such as tank tops or low-cut shirts.

A final piece of advice – when flying in and out of your host country, remember to dress in comfortable clothes and wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Most volunteer abroad destinations will require you to take one or more very long flights, and the last thing you want is to be uncomfortable on an airplane. Wear simple, cotton clothes and consider bringing layers in case you get warm or cold while in the air.

It can be a challenge to pack lightly while making sure you have the right clothing for all situations. Just remember not to panic if you end up without something you need while abroad, and that planning ahead will save you a lot of stress when packing time rolls around.

You can find previous Volunteer Abroad Tips here:
Tip #1: Research the language
Tip #2: Research the culture
Tip #3: Let go of your expectations
Tip #4: Pack lightly
Tip #5: Don’t hide behind your camera
Tip #6: Know emergency procedures

Tune back in next week for our next Volunteer Abroad Tip, and visit our website if you are interested in volunteering abroad!