The challenge of packing your bags for the Peace Corps lies in the fact that you simply cannot predict, with any kind of precision, what kinds of conditions you will be facing: Will there be a way for me to contact my loved ones? Will there be electricity? What kinds of clothes will I be expected to wear? Will it be safe to go for a jog in the morning? Will I have access to running water? How will I clean/store my water? What can('t) I buy after I arrive? What supplies will be provided by the Peace Corps? What challenges am I going to face on a daily basis?
We have been presented with an array of possibilities, but have few definite answers.
My answer to this packing challenge is to be prepared for anything and everything.
My strategy for preparedness is to bring multi-purpose items, clothes, & tools that can be used in a variety of ways in a variety of situations. Simple, classic, and comfortable clothing can be layered to adapt to a wide range of temperatures and situations. Clothing is actually the least of my worries, as we should have ample opportunity to shop for local styles in the capital city of Asuncion during our first eleven weeks of training.
The outdoorsman may be one of the best advisors for this kind of adventure. Some key "outdoors" items I have packed include:
- Leatherman tool & knife
- Waterproof bags & stuff sacks
- Day pack (hiking backpack)
- Sun shower
- Sleeping bag & mat
- Quick-dry camp towels
- Rain gear
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Chaco flip-flops
- Solar-powered battery charger
- LED headlamp & flashlight
- Water bottle
- Collapsable water jug
- Underarmor
- Lightweight hiking clothing
- Packing cubes
- Theft-proof security bags (purse & tote with slash-proof straps & siding)
