Gap & Expedition packing list.
The official packing list for 9–11 month Gap Year and Expedition trips. Full expedition setup — hiking backpack and tent required.
You'll hear (and read!) a lot of opinions on packing. Don't be scared — basic needs can be found overseas. Below is the official recommended list, dress guidelines, shopping tips, and baggage notes. Popular brands are noted where helpful.
Tent required for Gap Year & Expedition
A 2-person freestanding tent (with footprint & rain fly) is part of the required staples for these longer routes. Aim for under 5 lbs.
Staples
Hiking Backpack or Suitcase
aka 'Big Pack.' Frontloading, internal frame, 55–70L. Aim for under 45 lbs.
Try: Osprey, REI, Kelty
Daypack
Your average backpack. This will be the carry-on.
Tent (with footprint & rain fly)
2-person freestanding. Aim for under 5 lbs.
Try: REI, Marmot, NEMO
Sleeping Pad
Different pads for different sleepers.
Try: Nemo, Exped, Therm-a-Rest
Sleeping Bag
Aim for a bag rated for 35º weather.
Try: Nemo, REI, Marmot
Travel Pillow & Pillowcase
Lightweight, packable.
Try: Therm-a-Rest
Pack Converter
aka 'Airporter.' Protects the big pack during travel and makes it carry-able.
Try: Sea-to-Summit (preferred)
Camping Towel / Sarong
Quick-dry towels work but get smelly. Sarongs are popular and cheap overseas.
Rain Jacket
Waterproof (not water-resistant), packable, breathable.
Outlet Converter
Most countries use different outlets. Often available on the field too.
Bible, Journal & Pens
For devos, processing, and documenting.
Additional staples
Packing Cubes
Keeps clothes grouped in the pack. We promise — they'll want these.
Stuff Sacks
Compress gear and save space.
Try: REI, Sea to Summit, Osprey
Sleeping Bag Liner
Versatile 'sheet' for varying temperatures.
Small Bag
Fanny pack, Kavu, drawstring bag, purse, crossbody — for daily essentials.
Rain Cover for Pack(s)
Sized to match the pack.
Reusable Water Bottle
Try: Nalgene, Hydroflask, Owala
Travel necessities
Passport
Must be valid at least 6 months after the return date. Need at least 1 blank page per country.
Additional government-issued ID
Driver's license or comparable ID.
Debit/credit card with international capabilities
Get one that reimburses ATM fees — Charles Schwab is a favorite. Bring a credit card for emergencies.
Proof of Yellow Fever (if applicable)
Some countries require the Yellow Fever vaccine for entry. Check the CDC travel site and bring proof if needed.
Extra passport photos
1–4 month outreach: 1–2 photos · 9 month: 2–4 · 11 month: 4–6. Available at drug stores or via phone apps.
Photocopies of ID, cards & passport
Helpful 'just in case.' Store separately from the originals.
Waterproof bag
For securing and protecting documents from water damage.
Toiletries
Toiletries Bag
Many prefer one that can be hung.
Prescription Medication
Bring all in original packaging — including EpiPen if applicable.
Glasses / Contacts / Solution
Don't rely solely on contacts. Bring backup glasses.
Over-the-Counter Medicine
Available in most countries, but bring a small starter collection.
Feminine Products
Enough for several months. Traditional tampons aren't widely available — consider menstrual cup, reusable pads, or period underwear.
Basic necessities
Available in-country but with limited brands. Bring enough to get through training and restock overseas.
Clothing
Training in Georgia is full of outdoor activities and camping — no skirts or church outfits needed. For the field, look up climate averages for your route. You'll also be able to buy clothes on the field.
| 5–8 | Tops |
| 2–4 | Pants / bottoms |
| 2–3 | Shorts |
| 1 | Fleece, flannel, sweatshirt or cardigan |
| — | Sleep clothes |
| — | Socks, underwear & bras |
| — | Swimwear |
| — | Shoes: tennis shoes, shower shoes, sandals (Birkenstocks, Rainbows, Chacos, Tevas) |
| Women | 2–3 skirts/dresses (at least 1 ankle-length) |
| Men | 1 'church' outfit (nicer pants & collared shirt) |
Dress guidelines
When you minister overseas, you represent Christ, your local ministry host, and Adventures in Missions. These are the baseline expectations — some hosts will add more based on local culture, and racers are expected to honor those at all times.
Men
- •Bring at least one pair of nice khakis, dress pants, or slacks
- •Bring a collared shirt or button up — fully buttoned at all times, chest not largely exposed
- •Wear a shirt at all times unless sleeping in a men-only room or at the beach (even during manual labor)
- •Tank top straps must be three fingers wide and not low cut on front, side, or back
- •Shorts only when ministry partner says it's appropriate; minimum 7-inch inseam (no shorter than fingertip at any point)
- •Swim trunks must follow the same dress code
- •No jeans with excessive holes
- •No see-through clothing
Women
- •Stomach and back must be covered
- •Shorts only when ministry host says it's appropriate; minimum 7-inch inseam (no shorter than fingertip)
- •Shirts cannot cover shorts ('lampshading')
- •No bra straps showing — including sports bras
- •Tank top straps must be three fingers wide. No spaghetti straps, strapless, or low-cut tops (front, side, or back)
- •Skirts and dresses must hit the top of the knee
- •Leggings and biker shorts only as a layer under dress-code-appropriate clothing — they don't qualify as pants
- •No jeans with excessive holes
- •Full-coverage one-piece swimsuit or tankini
- •No see-through clothing
Luxury items
Use discretion — you're responsible for everything you bring. Pick a few favorites, just don't go overboard.
Shopping recommendations
REI Co-Op
Familiar with racers — usually a one-stop shop. Get a membership first to earn dividends and rewards.
World Race Buy & Sell (Facebook)
Get new and used gear from former and current racers.
Target / Walmart
Always a great option for basics, clothing, and toiletries.
Amazon
Simple, cheap, fast — ideal for last-minute additions.
Baggage limits
Adventures is not responsible for expenses incurred for overweight baggage or instruments. Pay attention to airline allowances — including budget carriers — as you shop, prepare, and pack.
Pack with variety in mind. You don't need a whole new wardrobe of "missionary clothes."