The Unofficial Peace Corps Survival Kit: 10 Things You Actually Need to Pack
Let’s face it: staring at an empty duffel bag and trying to visualize the next two years of your life is terrifying.
The Peace Corps provides the essentials (a medical kit, mosquito net, etc.), but your personal comfort is up to you. After talking to hundreds of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, we know that cheap gear fails. Straps break, zippers bust, and batteries die.
If you are going to spend money, spend it on items that will last from Staging to your Close of Service flight. Here are the 10 items we recommend every invitee buy before they fly.
(Transparency Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our mission to help future volunteers!)
1. The "Indestructible" Hard Drive
Why you need it: In the Peace Corps, digital media is currency. You will trade movies, TV shows, and PDFs with other volunteers like gold. Internet is often slow or non-existent, so streaming isn't an option. You need a massive, durable library of entertainment for those long, rainy nights in your site.
It’s compact, has a three year warranty, and is durable enough to survive a bumpy bus ride.
2. A Headlamp (That Isn't Your Phone)
Why you need it: Whether you are walking to an outdoor latrine at 2 AM or reading during a power outage, a hands-free light is non-negotiable. Do not rely on your phone flashlight—it wastes precious battery.
Petzl Tikka Headlamp
Long battery life, simple to use, and it has a "Red Light" mode so you don't blind your host family (or attract bugs) while you’re eating dinner.
3. The "Forever" Sandals
Why you need it: You will walk more in the next two years than you have in the last ten. You need sandals that can handle mud, river crossings, and long hikes, but still breathe in the heat. Flip-flops will break in week one.
Chaco Z/Cloud Sandals
Chacos have a cult following among volunteers because they are virtually indestructible. The straps are adjustable for a custom fit, and the sole provides actual arch support.
4. A High-Capacity Power Bank
Why you need it: Electricity in many Peace Corps countries can be inconsistent. A power bank ensures your phone is charged so you can listen to music, use offline maps, or call home when you finally get a signal.
Anker PowerCore 20,000mAh
Anker is the gold standard. This brick can charge a typical smartphone 2-3 times before needing a recharge itself.
5. A Quick-Dry Microfiber Towel
Why you need it: Cotton towels take forever to dry in humid climates and start smelling like mildew immediately. Microfiber dries in minutes and packs down to the size of a t-shirt.
Rainleaf Microfiber Towel (XL)
It comes with a breathable mesh bag, has a loop for hanging on a nail (crucial in rural bathrooms), and is antimicrobial. Get the XL size so it actually wraps around you.
6. The Multitool
Why you need it: You will use this to cut fruit, fix your stove, open packages from home, remove splinters, and tighten loose screws on your furniture. It is the toolbox you can carry in your pocket.
Leatherman Wave+
It has 18 tools, including pliers, wire cutters, and a serrated knife. It’s an investment, but it comes with a 25-year warranty.
7. An E-Reader (Kindle)
Why you need it: Books are heavy. One Kindle holds thousands of books and weighs less than a single paperback. Peace Corps Volunteers read voraciously.
Kindle Paperwhite (Waterproof)
The battery lasts weeks, and the Paperwhite screen looks like real paper even in bright sunlight. Plus, the new ones are waterproof—great for reading by the river or bucket bath.
8. Packing Cubes
Why you need it: You will likely live out of your suitcase during training (the first 3 months). Packing cubes keep your clothes organized and compressed so you aren't digging through a chaotic explosion of clothes every morning.
Shacke Packing Cubes
Reasonably priced and sturdy. The zippers are strong and mesh tops let you see what’s inside.
9. A Solar Lantern
Why you need it: Similar to the headlamp, but for ambient light. When the power goes out, a solar lantern turns your room from a pitch-black cave into a cozy space where you can journal or cook.
LuminAID PackLite 2-in-1 Phone Charger
It inflates flat to save space, charges via solar panels on the back, and can even charge your phone in an emergency.
10. A Durable Daypack
Why you need it: You have your big luggage, but you need a solid backpack for daily use—going to the market, training sessions, or weekend travel.
Osprey Daylite Plus
It clips onto larger Osprey bags, has a hydration sleeve, and is backed by Osprey’s "All Mighty Guarantee" (they will fix it for free, forever, even if you break it in the field).
One Last Tip
Don't forget to grab some gear to represent your service! Check out the official National Peace Corps Association (NPCA) store for hoodies, mugs, and journals to bring a piece of home with you.
Soft, breathable, and made to move with you—this classic Peace Corps tee is your new everyday go-to.
Key details
100% combed and ring-spun cotton (Heather colors contain polyester)
Pre-shrunk for consistent fit wash after wash
Side-seamed construction for better structure and durability
Shoulder-to-shoulder taping for added comfort
Supporting the community: 100% of profits from this item go directly to the National Peace Corps Association.
Made-to-order & worth the wait: Your gear is custom-printed the moment you check out. Please allow 5-7 business days for production and another 5-7 business days for shipping. Most orders land on your doorstep within 2–3 weeks.
If your size isn’t listed, please reach out - we'll be happy to place a custom order.
Returns: Size & color choices are final. We’ll remake or refund items that arrive mis-printed or defective, just contact us within 30 days.