We asked Melody what we should bring on a mission trip....
I'm a first rank over-packer, so my list of "must haves" is rather long. However, for the sake of all humanity, I will try to simplify as much as possible.
#1 Bible, notebook, and pen
If you are going on a missions trip, these are definitely essentials! The Bible, of course, is to use to take people to verses and passages to back up what you're sharing. Apart from using your notebook for notes to refer to while sharing, it is great to write down names of people you meet at various locations. I find it helpful, especially since I'm not the best at remembering names.
#2 Bring a camera!
You will love going back and reflecting on all you saw and experienced once you get back home. Plus, it's a great tool to use when you are telling stories about all the great places you went and people you met along the way. Snapping a few videos is even better!
#3 Bug/ mosquito repellant
Nobody likes being itchy! Maybe you're like me and you're thinking, "I never get bug bites, so I'll probably be fine," or "bugs don't like my blood," and so on. Think again. In California, where I live, it is an extremely rare occurrence for me to get bitten by any sort of bug. When I travel, I don't know why, but I get eaten alive. If you want to save yourself from a world of itchy discomfort, I would STRONGLY advise you to bring a good repellant spray or lotion of some sort. You will be thankful that you did!
#4 Extra money (if at all possible)
So, maybe you're not the most well off and finances are already tight. There are many expenses to consider such as airfare or means of transportation, food, housing, souvenirs and countless variables depending on your individual circumstances when going on a missions trip. But, on top of all that, if you have it, or can spare a few dollars here and there, keep some extra money set apart and look for opportunities to bless others. Whether it's an older woman that doesn't own a pair of shoes, a little boy that continuously wears the same torn up shirt, a family that is out of fresh water to drink, or whatever it may be that you happen to see that is a need you can meet, do it if you can. Going into a missions trip of any sort, you will most likely see lack, and sometimes even the little things can make such a big difference.
~*~
Mission Trip Packing List
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