After a few trips, I wanted to pass along some packing tips and things that you haven't thought of that you might want to pack in your suitcase.
Packing Tips:
* Don't be embarrassed by a big rolling bag. Mine is about 1.5 feet wide and about 2.5 feet tall. So don't be embarrassed…we will be going overseas for a while.
* Pack 2 Towels by laying them on the bottom of your suitcase if you have a roller. It takes up less space and will protect your things from the hard rolling bars.
* When picking towels for your trip, pick ones that are older and thinner that will dry faster.
* When packing clothes, try rolling them and stuffing them into 1 Gallon or 2 Gallon baggies. This helps them stay organized and they won't be as wrinkled.
* Girls, if you are wearing skirts, I recommend wearing shorts underneath or even spandex type shorts. Heat + Lots of Walking + Rubbing Thighs = Chafing ;o) And you will most likely be up and down off of the floor so its good to have a little modesty protection too.
* If you put your pillow on the top you can squish it down pretty easily without taking up as much space.
* DOUBLE BAG LIQUIDS!!!!! Better safe then very sorry :o)
* If your flight trip has multiple stops and airplane changes, its not a bad idea to pack a spare change of clothes in your carry-on bag just in case.
* Check the weight, and know what you will be willing to get rid of if you do go over. That is unless you don't mind paying the extra fees.
* DON'T FORGET YOUR PASSPORTS AND IDS!!!!!
* Don't forget your shot records that are needed for Uganda…If you haven't had your shots yet get them ASAP!!! Check the CDC website for what you need or just go to your local health department and they can do it for you.
* Don't forget to bring money for your checked baggage both to Atlanta and Back from Atlanta. You won't need it for our flight to Africa, that is covered in the budget.
* You will be gone for 4 weeks, but you will only need 7-10 days worth of clothing. Always pack extra underwear…it can sometimes dissappear. Don't ask me why, cause I have no idea! haha!
Thats about all that I can think of right now for packing. I'll let you know if I think of anything else, and any experienced packers are of course free to pass on their tips as well :o)
Things you might not have thought to bring:
* A few small snacks for your carry – on bag to Africa. If we are flying KLM the food will be pretty good, but there may be something that you don't care for.
* Gas X or Bean-O- Yeah I know, nobody wants to admit that they have gas from time to time, but we all know it is a fact of life. When you are on an airplane the food they feed you often produces that lovely gas, and when you pair that with the air pressure on a plane it can be quite painful. Having this medication on hand will make you feel much better!
* Nasal Spray – if you get a dry nose, it will be exassperated by the dry air of planes. Its nice to have some synthetic moisture to make your breathing smoother.
* Fabreeze to keep clothes fresh. Pair that with undershirts, and you might be able to wear your shirts more then once between washing.
* If you have any prescription meds or special medical needs, it might be wise to write out possible side effects of the medication as well as how much and when you take it. That way if there is ever an emergency, we will have all the information we need. If you have already communicated these things to AIM then you have done your job :o)
Again, all I can think of right now, but feel free to add your own tips.
