Keep in mind that many rural Central Americans are conservative in dress. In general, the areas where we work are hot, so you will want clothes that are lightweight and comfortable. Bring a few large trash bags to protect your gear (and you) if it starts to rain or if exposed to road dirt. Instead of a purse, bring a backpack or fanny pack to carry your water bottle, camera, sunglasses and other daily needs. Similarly, leave all expensive jewelry and nice clothing at home. Bags tend to get tossed around and may get dirty and wet, so leave your nice luggage at home and bring old or plain bags instead. Don’t count on being able to use the wheels of a roller bag. You will be lifting and carrying your bags alot. The following are a few general recommendations: When you sign up for a trip you will receive a volunteer manual and communications from your team leader with suggested packing lists.

Of course, if you are taking medication for any condition, you should bring that along, keeping some in two different locations in case a bag is misplaced or delayed.įeel free to email if you have any questions or go the Center for Disease Control website for additional information.

Most volunteers carry a small selection of medication to reduce diarrhea or vomiting as well as over-the-counter medication for headache/fever. Gastrointestinal illness is not common on our trips, but it does occur sometimes. It is not usually necessary to bring along antibiotics, although some team members choose to do so. Depending on your particular work site, you may wish to take prophylactic medication. Malaria is present in some places where we work. If you did not have this illness as a child and have not received the vaccine, you may consider this vaccination. Varicella (chicken pox) is common in Central America. Hepatitis vaccination is recommended as well. You should definitely have up-to-date tetanus immunization.

However, there are some that are recommended. No immunizations or medicines are REQUIRED where we serve. We strongly suggest you make an appointment with your medical care provider well in advance to discuss your upcoming trip.

Midico waste