When going on an international mission trip, you’ll want to make sure you’ve taken care of some very important last-minute details. Here are some helpful steps to prepare for your mission trip before you leave.
A couple of things to keep in mind:
1. Make sure you have at least 2 copies of your passport in case you lose your original. Keeping one of the copies in your checked baggage is a very good idea.
2. Buy a silk seat belt for your travel money that can be hidden under your clothes for safety. The silk material is very nice as it allows your skin to breathe which is very important when you are traveling for a long time on the plane.
3. Taking a baby aspirin during your trip is a good idea when you’re sitting for long hours on the plane to help with the risk of blood clots (be sure to check with your doctor about medications).
4. Be sure to remember to take short walks during safe walking times while airborne to help with the risk of blood clots and to sit in a position where blood can pool.
5. Make sure you have a power converter so you can plug your appliances into an electrical outlet.
6. Check which vaccinations are needed by contacting the CDC website.
7. Check the climate of the place where you are traveling to pack appropriate clothing for the season.
8. Insect repellent (including DEET) is recommended for travel in areas with mosquitoes to help prevent malaria bites.
9. Good shoes for walking through airports and working on the mission field is a must!
10. Check baggage limits with the airline to make sure you don’t have to pay extra for bags that exceed the limits.
11. Make sure you have purchased travel insurance from a reputable source.
12. Take cash with you on your trip in large bills with more recent dates. Banks in Africa will not accept small notes of less than 50 USD.
13. Carry toiletries in hand luggage using the new regulations for carrying liquids. (Treat your carry-on bag like a survival bag in case your checked baggage gets lost during your flight. You’ll need to make sure contact lenses, solutions, and medications are in your carry-on.)
14. Reconfirm your flights 72 hours before departure with the airline.
I hope you will take the time to make sure all of these details have been taken care of! We pray that this will help equip you for your next mission trip!
Also, keep in mind that seeking the LORD is the most important step. First of all, make sure you have allowed the Lord to work in your own heart to prepare you…the rest will fall into place as you wish to walk in his wisdom.
safe travels,
Tabitha L, International Travel Manager and Registered Nurse
Adoption Airfare Owner
http://www.adoptionairfare.com