Embarking on a mission trip is an incredibly rewarding experience—one that stretches your faith, builds deep relationships, and allows you to serve communities in meaningful ways. But let’s be honest: packing for a mission trip can feel overwhelming. You’re going somewhere new, maybe even to a different continent, and you’re not quite sure what you’ll need. That’s why having a complete mission trip packing checklist is essential.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to pack, including clothing, toiletries, gear, documents, and personal essentials. This isn’t just about stuffing a suitcase—it’s about being prepared to serve effectively, stay safe, and focus on your mission without unnecessary distractions.
Why Packing Right Matters
Packing correctly can make or break your mission experience. Bringing the right items ensures you’re not a burden to the community you’re serving, allows you to adapt to unexpected challenges, and helps you stay healthy and comfortable.
Before we dive into the checklist, ask yourself:
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Where am I going?
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What’s the weather like?
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How long will I be there?
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What kind of work will I be doing?
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What are the cultural expectations?
Answering these questions first will help you tailor your packing list for the mission field ahead.
Essential Documents
Start with your most important items—your travel documents. Without these, you’re not going anywhere.
Don’t forget:
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✅ Valid passport (check expiration date)
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✅ Visa (if required)
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✅ Vaccination records (Yellow Fever, COVID-19, etc.)
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✅ Travel insurance papers
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✅ Copies of important documents (both physical and digital)
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✅ Emergency contacts
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✅ Letter of invitation or mission trip confirmation
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✅ ID and student card (if applicable)
Tip: Keep all documents in a waterproof, zipped pouch and store them in your carry-on bag.
Clothing and Footwear
When choosing clothing, go for modesty, comfort, and practicality. You’ll likely be doing physical work, attending church services, or interacting with locals—so pack with purpose.
Clothing checklist:
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✅ Lightweight shirts (both long and short sleeve)
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✅ Work pants or jeans
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✅ Comfortable shorts (if culturally appropriate)
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✅ Undergarments and socks for every day
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✅ Pajamas or sleepwear
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✅ A durable rain jacket or poncho
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✅ Modest dress/skirt (for women, depending on culture)
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✅ Lightweight sweater or hoodie (even warm places get chilly at night)
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✅ Swimwear (if relevant)
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✅ Hat or cap for sun protection
Footwear essentials:
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✅ Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
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✅ Durable sandals or flip-flops
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✅ Work boots (if your mission includes construction)
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✅ Shower shoes
Tip: Don’t pack brand-new shoes. Break them in before your trip to avoid blisters.
Toiletries and Hygiene
Many mission destinations don’t have the conveniences you’re used to. Bring your own hygiene essentials to stay clean and healthy.
Pack travel-sized versions of:
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✅ Toothbrush and toothpaste
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✅ Soap or body wash
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✅ Shampoo and conditioner
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✅ Deodorant
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✅ Razor and shaving cream
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✅ Feminine hygiene products
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✅ Hairbrush or comb
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✅ Quick-dry towel
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✅ Nail clippers
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✅ Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
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✅ Toilet paper or tissues (for rural areas)
Tip: Place all liquids in a zip-lock bag to prevent leaks.
Health and Medications
Staying healthy should be a top priority on your mission trip. In some places, pharmacies might be hard to find or carry unfamiliar brands.
Health checklist:
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✅ Any prescription medications (with copies of prescriptions)
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✅ Over-the-counter painkillers (e.g., ibuprofen)
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✅ Antacids or anti-diarrheal medication
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✅ Allergy medicine (if needed)
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✅ Insect repellent with DEET
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✅ Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
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✅ First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, gauze)
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✅ Electrolyte powder or rehydration salts
Tip: Bring a doctor’s note for any prescription drugs to avoid issues at customs.
Mission-Specific Gear
Your work may involve construction, teaching, ministry, or medical aid. Make sure to bring gear specific to your mission role.
Depending on your mission focus, you may need:
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✅ Work gloves
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✅ Safety glasses
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✅ Bible and devotionals
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✅ Notebook and pens
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✅ Small gifts or toys for children
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✅ Teaching materials or visual aids
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✅ Medical tools (if part of a healthcare team)
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✅ Flashlight or headlamp
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✅ Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
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✅ Daypack or small backpack
Tip: Check with your mission coordinator for tools or materials you might be expected to bring.
Tech and Communication
Some technology is helpful, but try to keep it minimal—you’re not going on a vacation or business trip.
Only bring what’s essential:
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✅ Unlocked phone (with international SIM or roaming plan)
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✅ Charging cables and power bank
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✅ Travel adapter for plugs
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✅ Camera or GoPro (optional but great for capturing memories)
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✅ Bluetooth speaker (for worship or group sessions)
Tip: Back up important photos and documents to cloud storage before leaving.
Comfort and Extras
You’ll be living outside your comfort zone, but a few small extras can go a long way.
Consider bringing:
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✅ Snacks (protein bars, trail mix, instant coffee)
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✅ Journal for reflections
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✅ Travel pillow and eye mask
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✅ Earplugs (for loud environments)
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✅ Zip-lock bags and plastic bags for wet or dirty clothes
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✅ Laundry detergent sheets or powder
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✅ Language phrasebook or app
Tip: Pack a few treats from home to lift your spirits on tough days.
What NOT to Pack
Leave behind anything that can become a distraction or isn’t mission-focused.
Avoid:
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❌ Expensive jewelry
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❌ Unnecessary electronics
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❌ Over-the-top makeup
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❌ Flashy clothes or logos
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❌ Items restricted by customs laws
Remember: the goal is to serve, not impress.
Packing Tips for Success
Here are a few final tips to make packing easier and your mission smoother:
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Pack light: Choose a soft, durable duffel bag or backpack. You’ll likely be carrying your own luggage.
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Use packing cubes: These help organize your clothes and make unpacking easier.
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Layer smart: Weather can change quickly. Layering keeps you flexible.
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Respect culture: Research modesty expectations in the country you’re visiting.
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Leave room: You might want to bring back souvenirs or local gifts.
Final Thoughts: Serve Prepared, Not Just Packed
Your mission trip is about more than checking off a packing list—it’s about showing up ready to serve with humility, compassion, and an open heart. Being well-prepared allows you to focus on what really matters: connecting with people and sharing your love, time, and talents.
Whether you’re serving for a week or several months, packing intentionally helps you be effective and respectful in your role.
Ready to Pack and Go?
Download this Mission Trip Packing Checklist as a printable PDF and share it with your team!
And if you’ve been on a mission trip before, drop your top packing tip in the comments—we’d love to hear from you.
→ Need help planning your trip? Contact us for travel advice, group rates, or packing tips. We’re here to support your mission.