What to pack for an overseas trek

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Heading on a Trek to build a school? Whether you’re going to Haiti, Nepal, Nicaragua, Malawi, Mali, Senegal, or anywhere else in the world, we’ve got you covered. Before you leave, remember to check your destination’s weather, remove packaging from new items (we leave no trace!), and make sure you’ve packed as lightly as possible!

For your carry-on

One 1-liter durable, wide-mouthed water bottle
Malaria medication, other prescriptions
Basic toiletries (anything over 3 oz. of liquid must go in your checked bag!)
1 extra set of clothes
Watch

For your checked bag

2 pairs of lightweight pants or capris for work
1 pair of lightweight pants or capris for hanging out in the community
5 t-shirts (3 for getting dirty on the worksite, 2 for travel)
Sneakers (these WILL get dirty!)
Flip flops (for bathing)
5 pairs of socks
5 pairs of cotton underwear
Work gloves
Hat, visor, or bandana
Small bath towel
Sheet and/or warm sleeping bag (check the weather!)
Sun block SPF 30 or higher
Insect repellant with at least 30% DEET
1 roll of toilet paper
buildOn Trek Guide and Personal Journal
Small pillow (optional – you can always roll up a sweatshirt!)
1 additional 1-liter, wide-mouthed water bottle
Light drawstring bag to carry items around the village
Hand sanitizer or baby wipes
Small zip lock of powdered laundry detergent or laundry soap tablets
1-2 extra zip lock bags for garbage
Extra plastic grocery bag for laundry
Battery operated alarm clock
Flightlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Powdered Gatorade or liquid water enhancers to flavor water
1 simple gift for your host family

Remember your positive attitude and open mind, and you’ll be good to go!