10 Things That Will Prepare You For The Worst On A Volunteer Trip

Heading overseas for a Voluntourist trip?

There's already so much to plan for a volunteer trip abroad, and as soon as you arrive, it can be overwhelming and even a bit scary!

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But don't panic! Here is a list of things that will help soften the blow in the case of an unfortunate situation. It's always better to be prepared!

1. Photocopies of Your Important Documents.

This step may seem tedious, but it's one of the most common nightmares when traveling: losing your passport and/or other important things like tickets, credit cards, contact lists and trip itineraries. To help aid in the recovery process, always make sure before you leave on a trip to make 2-3 copies of every important item and stash them separately in secret places such as a suitcase pocket, a book, or digital copies on your camera or phone. (Note: do NOT include the CVC# on the back of your credit cards on any photo document!) Also, have back up digital copies online somewhere, such as your email or DropBox. Having photocopies will ensure that you have all of your important information handy, including phone numbers for your credit cards to call and report as lost.

BONUS: As a last resort, leave copies with a trusted family member or friend who is not traveling with you.

2. Contact Information For Your Country's Embassy

In the very rare case that you wind up in an unsettling situation that you need emergency assistance with, have the contact information for your country's embassy and carry it with you everywhere in a secret place, like an inside pocket or hidden fanny pack. This way, if you ever end up stranded or otherwise feel in danger, you can more quickly receive assistance.

3. Fanny Pack or Money Belt

Fanny packs are back! Plus, they are much harder to lose or have stolen than a regular bag. If possible, try to hide the fanny pack under a loose shirt or jacket for even more protection. There are also a number of companies that make hidden money belts and neck wallets such as REI.com.

BONUS: Carry a "decoy" bag that has simple items that won't be missed, since most thieves will just grab whatever they can the quickest.

4. Contact Information Of Other Volunteer Organizations

It's never a bad idea to make a list of any other volunteer organizations or missionaries in the city or country you are volunteering in. In the unlikely event that anything goes wrong with your volunteer company, you can try to reach out to others in the area for assistance. They may even have an opening you can transfer to.

5. Extras of Every Essential Item

Packing only enough socks, undies, and personal hygiene items for the exact amount of days you are visiting can lead to uncomfortable situations. Chances are, you will get dirtier than expected, or may even stay longer than intended in the case of a layover or other unforeseen event.

6. Medical and First Aid Items

It's not common to remember to pack a full first aid kit, but many foreign volunteer locations aren't within walking distance to any type of drug store. Be sure to carry pain relievers, band aids, sanitizer, wound cleaner, stomach relief aids, and other general first aid kit supplies.

BONUS: If you have room or are traveling to a high risk area, pack gloves, sanitizing surface spray, and N100 rated masks to aid in case of an unexpected viral outbreak.

7. High Calorie Meal Substitutes

Most food you will find is delicious and abundant when volunteering. There is the rare instance, however, when something may be served that you don't particularly enjoy or that you know will give you trouble. It's always a safe bet to carry a full supply of meal replacement bars that you can easily chow down on to fill you up.

8. Theft Proof Bags

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Many volunteer houses do not have locking doors, and therefore, your bags will be left out in the open most of the time. Find a bag that also acts as a safe, such as the bags offered at pacsafe.com. Otherwise, don't leave any important or valuable items in your bags if they will be out of your sight for an extended period of time.

9. Extra Credit Card Instead of Just Cash

It's not a good idea to have loads of extra cash hidden anywhere, but a little is always a safe bet. Keep just enough cash hidden to buy meals for a day and get you to the nearest airport via cab or bus.

An extra credit card is a safer bet in case you need emergency cash. Most locations in the world have banks that you can withdraw cash from your credit card. Even if your credit card is misplaced or stolen, you will (hopefully!) have all of the proper information documented to call and immediately cancel the card. It's not so easy with cash!

10. All Weather Gear

You may be going to one of the warmest places on earth, but there is always a chance it will be colder than expected at night. There may also be an unseasonal monsoon or snow storm depending on the location. It's better to have a spare poncho or rain suit, heavy winter coat, extra blankets, and extra boots or water proof footwear just in case. There's nothing worse than being wet and cold!

For more information and tips, visit iamthevoluntourist.com