Depends on where you are going in Africa and how long you will be there.
First, make sure you've gotten all your immunizations updated before you go. Visit http://www.cdc.gov/travel/vaccinat.htm for vaccination requirements/suggestions for the country you're going to.
When you go to get the immunizations, ask the travel doctor for a prescription of CIPRO, which is great for pesky stomach problems/traveler's diarrhea if the over the counter stuff isn't helping. Get malaria meds if you are traveling to an area with malaria risk.
Buy over the counter meds like advil or tylenol, anti-diarrheal meds, antacids, sinus/allergy meds (if you're prone to allergies), a wound treatment kit with bandaids, alcohol wipes, and neosporin.
Bring anything you think you might want while you're there. Don't assume they have what you normally use.
Bring stuff like: shampoo/conditioner, soap (but you can buy more there if you need it), razor & replacement blades, toothpaste, toothbrush, feminine products (never assume you can find these there...in Sudan women use big wads of cotton or rags), sunscreen, insect repellent, deodorant, lotion (the heat makes your skin dry out especially if you're in the desert areas) and any other specialty items you use (contact solution, acne meds, etc)
Pack clothing appropriate to the culture you'll be working with. If it's a Muslim or conservative culture, please, please, please don't wear short shorts or skirts and tank tops. It's scandalous and inappropriate, and you won't be reaching many people because your clothes will turn them away. Pack t-shirts (not scandalously tight), and long pants or skirts made of light fabrics, like cottons or linens. That way you're appropriate but not too too hot. (I wore long sleeves & long pants/skirts when I was in Sudan, and it gets hot, but you also get used to it.)
Bring a pair of tennis shoes, sandals (like tevas) that strap on, flip flops, and maybe a pair of dressier shoes, but only if you're staying a long time.
Plan on leaving everything you bring...you can leave them as gifts for friends you meet, and then you have lighter bags going home, and more space to pack souvenirs!
Remember that not every country uses toilet paper. Wet wipes are nice to have, get a box for your hotel/apartment, and some individually wrapped ones to take when you're out somewhere. A lot of countries use bedays, either a water hose or a seperate unit that shoots water on you to wash you off. It's actually cleaner than toilet paper, but takes a while to get used to having a wet butt when you are done!
Good luck with your trip. Be open minded, honest, and genuine. People will tell that you have a heart to share with them and encourage them, and they will respond to the love of God through you.
2006-07-29 02:35:37
·
answer #1
·
answered by Jenn 3
·
0⤊
0⤋
Michelle
1 second ago
Well It totally depends on where you are going. I live in South Africa and i have done some mission work in Swaziland and then again just a few weeks ago in Mozambique.
I would say from most of my trips the essentials are anti nausia and anti diarrhea meds...if you are out in a place without proper toilets the last thing you need is to get sick.
My absolute fav item though, and I know it sounds weird is baby wipes. These are the most awesome thing especially when you cant shower as much as you want. Or even if you can, its so nice ot wipe your face, arms, feet and hands with these on a hot dusty afternoon, it makes you feel 100% again until you can shower in the evening. There is nothing worse than feeling grotty.
Another good one would be waterless hand clenser which you can use if you are out and need to clean your hands to eat, or if you have been playing with children. Just remember your immune system needs to be strong because the hygiene levels will be different to what you are used to, so after playing with kids, never put your fingers near your mouth.
Also if you are going to a malaria area you MUST take meds and sprays etc.
Otherwise essentials are sunscreen and a cap, comfy clothes and comfly shoes, preferably flip flops coz its hot.
If you want any other info just email me.
Most of all make the most of all your oppertunities and have fun:)
2006-07-26 09:43:40
·
answer #2
·
answered by Michelle 2
·
0⤊
0⤋
It maybe a bit warmer than where you stay, but you can just pack the same as for when you go to any other place. Or do you want to carry poisonous arrows to protect yourself against the lions.
2006-07-25 23:45:17
·
answer #3
·
answered by guy in Yemen 2
·
0⤊
0⤋
It depends on your mission I mean most probably you are going there to spread monosexuality or other deviant behavior with cover of christianity or relief work right?
2006-07-26 06:37:16
·
answer #4
·
answered by kidu 2
·
0⤊
0⤋
Depends on where you are going. Is it a malaria area, then long sleeves and pants etc. Is it a muslim country, then dress codes apply.
2006-07-26 11:52:59
·
answer #5
·
answered by Anonymous
·
0⤊
0⤋
if your heir for humnatarian reasions then evey thing you will need...if your going to convert people then for get it...or still go and possably get killed...thats up to you
2006-07-25 23:44:47
·
answer #6
·
answered by Anonymous
·
0⤊
0⤋
bring water food and close
2006-07-25 23:44:58
·
answer #7
·
answered by jonyater 1
·
0⤊
0⤋
condoms
2006-07-25 23:44:27
·
answer #8
·
answered by eonetiller 4
·
1⤊
0⤋