Packing for 27 months of service is equal parts exciting and overwhelming. You’re preparing to live simply, travel light, and adapt to new surroundings, but the right gear can make a huge difference in comfort and peace of mind.
This list, compiled from RPCV recommendations, highlights versatile items that last, pack small, and solve real problems in the field.
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🌞 Everyday Must-Haves
Reliable Travel Backpack
Your backpack will become an extension of you — whether you’re commuting to training, visiting nearby towns, or hopping a long bus ride. Look for one with solid back support, multiple compartments, and a water-resistant shell.
Durable Luggage or Duffel
Peace Corps travel can be rough on bags. A sturdy wheeled duffel or large packable suitcase keeps everything organized from staging through service.
Lightweight, Quick-Dry Towel
A microfiber towel dries fast, packs small, and doubles as a blanket or picnic mat — ideal for travel or homestay life.
Water Bottle with Built-In Filter
Access to clean water varies from site to site. A durable, refillable bottle with an integrated filter keeps you hydrated and cuts down on plastic waste.
Solar or Hand-Crank Lantern
Essential for sites with limited power. A small solar lantern charges during the day and lights your space at night — no batteries required.
Lightweight Headlamp
Hands-free light makes a world of difference during power outages or late walks to the latrine. Choose one with multiple brightness settings.
💻 Tech & Digital Essentials
External Hard Drive or SSD
Great for backing up photos, sharing movies, or keeping training materials offline. Solid-state drives (SSDs) are faster, lighter, and more durable for travel.
👉 Shop portable SSDs
Universal Travel Adapter with USB Ports
Different countries mean different plug types. A universal adapter with USB ports keeps your gear safely powered anywhere.
👉 Find your adapter
Solar Charger or Foldable Panel
For sites with limited electricity, a small solar charger can keep phones and batteries powered off-grid.
👉 See solar chargers
🩳 Clothing & Comfort
Lightweight Rain Jacket
Stay dry through sudden downpours. Breathable, packable rain shells handle humidity without trapping heat.
👉 Shop lightweight rain jackets
Comfortable Sandals
You’ll live in these. Sturdy, quick-dry sandals like Tevas or Chacos work for daily wear, showers, or dusty hikes.
👉 See durable sandals
Hiking Boots
You’ll also live in these. A reliable pair of insulated, waterproof boots will keep your feet dry during cold rains or mountain winters and stand up to daily wear.
👉 Find hiking boots
Quick-Dry Underwear & Socks
Avoid cotton — synthetic or merino blends dry faster, resist odor, and stay comfortable in hot or humid conditions.
👉 Browse travel underwear
📚 Experience
Travel Journal or Notebook
Documenting experiences helps you reflect, stay grounded, and capture stories worth remembering.
👉 Shop journals
E-Reader or Lightweight Tablet
Load it with books before you leave — perfect for downtime, training, or quiet nights in.
👉 Browse e-readers
Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Bring music and connection to your space. Compact speakers can last weeks on a charge and turn a quiet evening into a shared moment.
👉 Explore portable speakers