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| Packing Lists for Peace Corps | |
 | These lists has been compiled by Volunteers serving in the individual countries and are based on their experience. Use it as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that experience is individual. There is no perfect list!
See also: For information see Welcomebooks |
This list is based on the experience of Peace Corps Volunteers generally. You will need an assortment of clothing for work, play, and socializing. Keep in mind that Albanians dress stylishly, even if their clothes are worn. Don’t expect to replace clothing at the same rate that you might in the United States. You also will need your own money for your purchases. Many Peace Corps Volunteers throughout the world end their service with the same clothing (albeit well-worn) that they started with.
Use the list as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that experience is individual. There is no perfect list! You obviously cannot bring everything we mention, so consider those items that make the most sense to you personally and professionally. You can always have things sent to you later. Do not bring anything that is so valuable or precious that you would be traumatized if you lost it. Although dry cleaners exist, it is best to avoid bringing clothes that need dry cleaning. As you decide what to bring, keep in mind that you have a 100-pound weight limit on checked baggage. Though clothing and shoes can be expensive, you can get most things you need in Albania if you look hard enough. If you choose to buy clothing, you will probably need to use your own money as your living allowance provides only a very modest amount for clothing.
Contents |
[edit] General Clothing
- Slacks and jeans
- Shirts for summer and fall
- Warm shirts, turtlenecks, and sweaters for winter
- Shorts and T-shirts for relaxing in hot weather
- Long underwear
- Light socks for summer and heavy socks for summer
- Warm hats and gloves
- Sweats or heavy pajamas
- Heavy winter coat
- All-weather coat
- Bathing suit
[edit] For Women
- Dresses for summer and for the rest of the year
- Underpants and bras
- Several pairs of pantyhose and tights
- One spring jacket and one fall jacket that matches other clothes
[edit] For Men
- Collared shirts for work (it is better to dress up than to dress down)
- Underwear
- A few ties
- At least one jacket or suit for special occasions
[edit] Shoes
- At least one pair of good-quality sandals that are good for walking
- Dress shoes for work that are good for walking (women should also bring a pair of pumps)
- Sturdy, thick-soled walking shoes
- Plastic shower shoes
- House slippers—essential for living with a host family
- Warm, insulated, and sturdy winter boots
[edit] Personal Hygiene and Toiletry Items
- Any favorite nonprescription medical supplies (those provided by the Peace Corps may not be your favorite brands)
- A three-month supply of any prescription drugs you use, to last until the Peace Corps can order more
- Two pairs of eyeglasses (if you wear them), along with your current prescription
- Contact lens solutions (not supplied by the Peace Corps and not readily available in Albania)
- Small supply of cosmetics (the quality in Albania varies)
[edit] Kitchen
- Two pairs of strong rubber gloves—you will probably do laundry by hand, and dishwater may be freezing
- Sturdy travel water bottle (e.g., Nalgene)
- A few favorite cooking tools or utensils
- Basic cookbook
- Packaged mixes for your favorite sauces, salad dressings, and soups
- Your favorite spices (Mexican, Chinese, Indian, and Italian ones can be hard to find)
[edit] Miscellaneous
- Tough but flexible luggage (the roller/backpack combos work especially well)
- Backpack
- Money pouch
- Camera
- Sunglasses
- A pocketknife (e.g., Swiss Army or Leatherman type) or tool kit
- Duct tape
- Good flashlight with rechargable batteries and charger
- Alarm clock
- Watch
- Compact sleeping bag
- Sewing kit
- Books and music
