What to pack for Guatemala


Almost every airline offers 20-25 kilograms of luggage per person as well as 5-10
kilograms of carry-on luggage included in the price of the ticket. You should double
check the terms and conditions when buying the ticket. Of course, you can always
choose the pre-purchase excess baggage option.

15 KILOGRAMS OF DONATIONS
Every volunteer is obligated to bring 15 kilograms of humanitarian help. Each parcel is
put together individually. Normally, it includes medical supplies (no restricted items and
liquids), children’s wear, toys, household goods. Each volunteer is provided with a cover
letter from Health&Help, explaining the contents of your donation cargo.


10-15 KILOGRAMS OF PERSONAL BELONGINGS 
You can always buy necessary clothes in Guatemala or use the clothes, left by other
volunteers. Clothes can be bought at affordable prices ($1-5) at charity shops or at the
mall. Cosmetics and personal hygiene products are accessible at the local supermarket
or at the farmer’s market. It makes sense to bring practical and comfortable clothes
only.

WINTER SEASON (OCTOBER-MARCH)


It’s chilly in winter, +15…+5C, rain can be expected. 
We recommend bringing the following essentials:
Ultra-light down jacket (Uniqlo)
Water proof jacket
Hat
Sweater
Thermal underwear 
Casual and/or sportswear
Sneakers
T-shirt
Underwear
Socks, warm socks especially

SUMMER SEASON (MARCH-AUGUST)


It’s hot in summer, +20…+35C. It’s barely raining, no mosquitos though.
We recommend bringing the following essentials:
Sweater
Casual and/or sportswear
T-shirt
Light dress
Shorts
Sandals
Beach wear
Underwear
Socks, warm socks especially
Sun hat
Sunglasses

AUTUMN SEASON (AUGUST-OCTOBER)


It’s warm in autumn, +15…+20C. It’s constantly raining though.
We recommend bringing the following essentials:
Water proof jacket
Hat
Sweater
Casual and/or sportswear
Sneakers
T-shirt
Underwear
Socks

MISCELLANEOUS

Phone
Charger
Kindle
Toothbrush

Toothpaste
Deodorant
First aid kit
Feminine care products (can be also bought at the supermarket)
Travel electrical EU-US adapter
Condoms (can be bought at the supermarket; expectations vs reality in terms of the size
may be disappointing)
MUST-HAVES
Airplane tickets
Travel document
Copy of the travel document
Medical insurance (if applicable)
Driving license (if applicable)
Cover letter from Health&Help
Credit cards
Not more than $100 in cash
‘How to get to the clinic’ instructions, project managers’ contact information, other useful
info
Black&white passport photos (in case you are planning to stay more than 90 days in
Guatemala)

WHAT NOT TO PACK FOR GUATEMALA
It’s sensible not to bring unnecessary stuff you can always buy at the local supermarket
or find at the clinic. Being a volunteer means to respect local traditions and lifestyle, so
please don’t bring any provoking or revealing clothes. There is no need in party dresses
and designer gowns. It makes absolutely no sense to bring clothes you are barely
using.


We do not recommend bringing:
Revealing or provoking clothes or footwear
High heels
More than two pairs of boots
More than two pairs of pants
More than one jacket
Scrubs (there are plenty at the clinic)
Laptop (one at the clinic can always be used)
More than $100 in cash (those might be lost or stolen)
Personal hygiene products (those may be bought at the local shops)
Insect repellents (there are no mosquitoes here)
Camera (there is one at the clinic; besides, your phone camera is more practical)
Rain boots (they are heavy and may be bought at the local shop)
Paper books
Stationary
Flashlight

Umbrella
Raincoat
Hairdryer/hair styler
Tent, camping accessories
Food

Plan carefully before packing. Make a list of things you need to bring and decide who
takes what in case you are travelling with a friend. Pack a mini capsule wardrobe to
make your outfits look creative and fresh every day. Pack your stuff, folding, rolling and
spreading them to occupy all the space inside the bag. Bring multipurpose items:
shampoo can be used as soap and detergent at the same time.


Watch some Youtube videos for tips how to pack your bag.
Have a nice trip!

Комментарии