Hello Outbound Haiti Team,
When it comes to packing, we need to be very specific. There are certain things we simply don’t need and many things we have to have room for. Please limit your carry-on to something small (duffel bag or back pack), not a small roller-suitcase. As for your larger piece of luggage, the weight max for the airlines is 50lbs., however we would like you to keep it to 30lbs. When we meet in Florida we will be spreading out supplies into your larger suitcases. It will be important to take a close look at all of your items and only pack the bare necessities. You will only take one or two showers while you are there, so small, travel-sized toiletries will be sufficient. As for clothing, many of us in the past have re-worn things; there are certain things you’ll want fresh every day, but please be as conservative as possible.
There is a list of things not to bring, but just to emphasize, please refrain from bringing all of the extras that many of us use on a regular basis (make-up, hair-dryer, flat iron, electric razor, etc.). Limit valuables that you bring knowing that it will not be locked up all day while we are in Haiti. We understand the desire to bring iPods and mp3 players for traveling, but be careful. We do not recommend bringing any valuable jewelry (watches, rings, necklaces, etc) and don’t bring any expensive clothing that you would not want to get dirty and maybe even ruin. The conditions there vary and are totally unexpected, it’s best to bring clothes and shoes that are durable, but not valuable. As far as your bedding, Jacob’s Well has some sleeping bags and mattress pads, but if you have room to pack them, it’s always a good idea. If you do pack those and want to donate them to Jacob’s Well at the end of the trip, that is greatly appreciated!
In past trips, we have brought a lot of gifts and candy for the Haitian children. We definitely want to encourage you to bring little gifts (silly bands, toy cars, head bands, etc.) but please leave the candy at home. We have decided to do that b/c it is not good of the kids (it isn’t good for any of us), but the trash also ends up all over Jacob’s Well and the village. Also, we encourage you to bring healthy snacks for you while you’re here. The food is always great, but you will be amazed at how much you can eat when you are working as hard as you will be during this trip. Protein bars, nuts, beef jerky, hard crackers, and some fruit snacks are all great choices.
Please click here to download the full Packing List and as always, let us know if you have any questions.
Happy Packing,
Ang & Kevin
