Traveling to a foreign country can be both overwhelming and exhausting. The 410 Bridge wants to do everything we can to help you feel prepared as you plan to journey with us to Kenya! So here we'll provide you with everything from a packing list to how to pack those things so that you're journey can be as easy as possible!
Click on the icon below to view list of items and notes.
- Passport
- You must have your passport before you board the plane. It will take 4-6 weeks and a birth certificate will be required to obtain your passport so don't delay. Forms may be obtained at your local Post Office.
- Immunization record
- There are several shots you will need before you can travel to Kenya. As some of these immunizations will require more than one shot, you will want to begin the process as soon as possible. Contact your local health department for a list of immunizations required for travel to Kenya and for information regarding appointments and payments for these shots.
- Photocopy of your Passport
- To be kept on your person but separate from the original in case one is lost
- Photocopy of your driver's license and Social Security card
- To be used in event of passport problems
- Plane Ticket
- 2 Extra Passport Photos
- These photos will be use for the purpose of obtaining a Visa. Your visa will be purchased at the airport in Nairobi.
Notes:
- You must have your passport before you board the plane. It will take 4-6 weeks and a birth certificate will be required to obtain your passport so don't delay. Forms may be obtained at your local Post Office.
- Often times it is suggested to carry the originals in a plastic bag so they won't be ruined if wet
When beginning to pack for your trip to Kenya, there are several things to keep in mind. After all, planning your wardrobe for a trip to a foreign country is quite different than planning your wardrobe for a vacation! It is best to be overly aware of how we present ourselves when in a foreign country. We are not trying to make any statements or draw any extra attention to ourselves. So in planning your wardrobe remember, modesty is the key! Avoid any flashy or expensive jewelry or apparel. For women especially, avoid showing too much skin (i.e. no tank tops, halter tops, short shorts, etc.). Most importantly, avoid any clothing with overtly American or Christian symbols or statements. We want to respect the culture we are visiting as well as protect ourselves from any negative attention these symbols or statements might attract. That being said- don't panic! It is always best to be aware so that you can prepare accordingly!
- Tops/Collared Shirts
- Jeans/Trousers/Cargo Pants
- We recommend not planning to wear jeans very often. We will be visiting several churches where trouser-type pants will be more appropriate. However, in our down-time, jeans will be acceptable.
- Comfortable shoes
- There will be a lot of walking so this is no time to break in shoes! Since some conditions may be unsanitary, closed-toed shoes are best.
- Church Attire
- There is the possibility that we will have the option to visit a few church services while in Kenya. In this case, we recommend you pack a shirt and tie for the occasion.
- Light Jacket/Sweater
- Rain jacket
- Hats/Bandanas
- Sunglasses
- Socks/Undergarments
Notes:
- You must be able to fit all of your clothing, toiletries, etc. into one bag so be resourceful and choosy when picking out your clothing
- It can be rather cold at nights so remember when packing night clothes, make sure they will keep you warm!
- Be sure to pack enough clothing for the trip, but not too much. You can always re-wear tops or bottoms, but know that washing items may not be possible. It is always best to have a change of clothes and extra toiletries in your carry-on in case your luggage is lost.
- As previously stated, we recommend no jeans for the majority of the trip and no shorts at all. We want to appear professional and respectful of the places we are visiting.
- In keeping with a professional appearance, we recommend packing t-shirts only for travel days. Collared shirts, blouses, or nicer tops will be best for the majority of visits on our trip.
- Again, we want to re-iterate the important of modesty in clothing choices. By avoiding clothing with obvious Christian or American symbols, we will remain both modest and respectful in our new surroundings.
- Tops/Blouses
- Again, we went to remain modest while in country. Please no tank-tops, halter tops, etc.- Any shirt you pack should have sleeves!
- Slacks/Long Skirts
- We recommend not planning to wear jeans very often. We will be visiting several churches where long skirts or nice slacks will be more appropriate. However, in our down-time, jeans will be acceptable. Long-skirts are recommended for most occasions and should fall between the knee and the ankle- nothing above the knee!
- Comfortable shoes
- There will be a lot of walking so this is no time to break in shoes! Since some conditions are unsanitary, closed-toed shoes are best.
- Light Jacket/Sweater
- Rain Jacket
- Hats/Bandanas
- Sunglasses
- Socks/Undergarments
Notes:
- You must be able to fit all of your clothing, toiletries, etc. into one bag so be resourceful and choosy when picking out your clothing
- It can be rather cold at nights so remember when packing night clothes, make sure they will keep you warm!
- Be sure to pack enough clothing for the trip, but not too much. You can always re-wear tops or bottoms, but know that washing items may not be possible. It is always best to have a change of clothes and extra toiletries in your carry-on in case your luggage is lost.
- As previously stated, we recommend no jeans for the majority of the trip and no shorts at all. We want to appear professional and respectful of the places we are visiting.
- In keeping with a professional appearance, we recommend packing t-shirts only for travel days. Collared shirts, blouses, or nicer tops will be best for the majority of visits on our trip.
- Again, we want to re-iterate the important of modesty in clothing choices. By avoiding clothing with obvious Christian or American symbols, we will remain both modest and respectful in our new surroundings.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Razor
- Shampoo/Conditioner
- Soap
- Sunscreen
- Brush/Comb
- Feminine Products
- Wet Wipes
Notes:
- It is advised that you carry your essential toiletries in your carry-on (i.e. toothbrush, feminine products, etc) in case your luggage is lost.
- Because of recent changes to FAA regulations, carrying your toiletries onto the plane has become slightly more difficult. Generally, no liquid substances over 3 oz. will be permitted in your carry-on bags.
- Sometimes items such as sunscreens or shampoos can be damaged during their screening for customs. In order to avoid their leaking all over your belongings, you may consider packing them in see-through plastic bags so if damaged, the contents will be contained.
- Malaria Prescription
- Aspirin/Tylenol/General pain reliever
- Pepto Bismal/Imodium
- Mosquito repellent with DEET
- Travel-sized hand sanitizer
- Personal Prescription
- Personal first aid
- This could include as much or as little as you'd like- band aids, Neosporin, thermometer, etc.
- Sleep-Aid
- Over-the-counter sleep-aids like Sominex, Melatonin, Nytol, Ambien, etc. are options. For a milder sleep-aid, try Benadryl or Tylenol PM.
- Cold/Allergy Medication
- Cipro
Notes:
- It is advised that you carry your essential medications (malaria and general prescriptions) in your carry-on in case your luggage is lost.
- It is best to purchase any medications you believe you might need while in the U.S. Do not wait until you're in-country to purchase, as you then may not be able to find what you need.
- Bible
- Personal Journal and pen/pencils
- Photos from home (these serve as good conversation/relationship builders)
- Small Backpack/Fanny pack to carry in-country
- Camera
- If needed, bring extra batteries and film as well
- Electrical Volt Adaptor (220 Volts, 50 cycle)
- This will be available at Wal-Mart, Target, etc.
- Travel alarm clock
- Laptop computer
- You are welcome to bring your laptop on the trip but we will most likely be away from internet access for most of the trip
- Personal travel snacks
- If brining snacks, bring things that are small and will travel well (i.e., things that are packaged, won’t melt, won’t spoil, etc.) Ex.- Protein bars, Gatorade packets, Nutrigrain bars.
- Personal towels/wash cloths
- Extra Toothbrush
- Pocket Kleenex
- Cell Phones
- It is not necessary to bring a cell phone. However, if you would like to have one it is recommended that you purchase one international phone for the whole of your team, as they are expensive and each can person can pitch in to cover the cost.
- Flashlight
Notes:
- These items are not necessary things to bring- simply suggestions. Most things such as towels, food, etc. will always be provided for you.
Now that you know what to pack, here are some helpful hints about how to pack them lightly and efficiently. We are asking you to pack all of your clothes, medicines, toiletries, etc. in one bag. This will make travel in-country easier. However, we are asking you to pack another checked bag as well. This second bag should be full of toys, games, clothes, or anything that can be brought with you to distribute to children and families in need within Kenya. Items such as Frisbees, coloring books, clothing, etc. are good for travel. Once in-country, this bag will be emptied and you may use it on the return trip to bring home any extra things you purchased in-country. Keep in mind that the weight limit for each checked bag is 50 lbs.
- Soft-sided, easy to carry bags are best as you may be traveling from one place to another once in-country
- Roll up smaller items such as socks, undergarments, etc. to stuff in shoes or sleeves and pockets of shirts to give more space in bag
- Pack the clothing you want to wear first on top
- Keep crushable items to the outside of the bag in case of wear and tear during travel
- Pack items in plastic bags to avoid water damage
Notes:
- We recommend packing a backpack as your carry-on bag. Once in country we will be taking one trip that will require you to carry a small bag for just one night. Your backpack can easily be converted into an overnight bag for this particular trip.
- Federal laws only allow two carry-on items: one bag no bigger than 7 inches by 12 inches by 21 inches, and one personal item such as a purse, small backpack, briefcase, laptop computer, or shopping bag. Strollers, pillows, and diaper bags count as personal items.
- Pack your travel documents (passport, visa, etc.) in a safe but easily accessible place within your bag
- Remove all sharp objects (knives, razors, scissors, etc.) from your bag as they will not be allowed through security checkpoints
- Keep your extra toiletries and change of clothes accessible in case you want to use them throughout the flight
Notes:
With a long hours on the plane and a few connecting flights, here are a few tips to making your air travel a little easier.
- Before your flight it is important to get good, solid rest. If you start off the trip tired, jet lag will hit you harder!
- If you experience motion-sickness, plan to take your medication prior to the flight so that it will kick-in in time to keep you comfortable
- Plan to arrive at the airport up to three hours before your flight
- In going through security and customs, plan ahead to remove all metal from your person as well as any sharp or questionable objects from your carry-on
- Be prepared and flexible in dealing with any random security screenings
- Have all your luggage tagged with your name and contact information in case any of it is lost
- As the flight will be long, be sure to take time to walk around and stretch to avoid cramping, clots, etc.
- Stay hydrated! Drink as much waters as you can while on the plane!