"I'll go where you want me to go, dear Lord,
Over mountain or plain or sea;
I'll say what you want me to say, dear Lord;
I'll be what you want me to be."
**note - stores located throughout the world, double check shipping prices
"Walking Comfort Shoes in Draper and Centerville, Utah
They give up to 20% off for missionaries and have amazing brands like Dansko, Cobb Hill, Taos, Ecco, etc."
" I have an app called Hautelook and you can find super cute things that are also modest if you look for them. I've gotten a lot of cute bohemian maxi skirts that will work for both hot and cold weather. Most of the stuff is cheap too! :) "
"Sisters! I am 6'2" and thought that I wouldn't be able to find hardly any skirts that cover my knees. Well, I am here to tell you that MIRACLES HAPPEN! I came across eShakti.com and suggest that everyone go look at it, whether you're short or tall! You can put in your own measurements (which can be super convenient for some), select your height, and determine where you want the skirt to hit! Not only is it good for tall people, but for shorties and everyone else in between! Just thought I'd share this tip of advice with all you lovely sisters!
P.S. Everything is 30% off until tomorrow AND you can also find a coupon online for $35 off!" -Sister Forbes
"I served in Scotland/Ireland so it rained almost everyday all day. What I found is get waterproof shoes and then waterproof spray and spray them to make sure they won't leak or get leather shoes and waterproof them. Take the waterproof spray with you because you'll need to waterproof them every 3-6 months depending on how much it rains."
*** Please NOTE these are only SUGGESTIONS and advice from fellow Sisters. ***
If your mission packet says take it or do it, please follow your mission packet. IT IS THERE FOR A REASON and your Mission President knows BEST!
Wished you HAD done or taken:
taken more time to study Preach My Gospel
a COPY of your mission call
"I wish I would have shrunk my calling like I did to my blessing and actually taken it. Because the blessings that are in your call are so much more real and touching when you read it while on your mission. Plus, if you shrink it and laminate it, it won't get ruined! (Staples does it for 2 bucks)"
Power of attorney given to your parents (in case you need to handle anything on your behalf: replace lost drivers license/passport, registering for school, etc)
skirts with pockets
"take ONE car to the the Provo MTC (or if you must take 2 drop off one somewhere and squish - for you will only be allowed ONE car at the MTC drop off), tip -say your goodbyes at the temple, tag/mark you suitcase well to stand and quickly be able to see your suitcase in the sea of others. Don't forget your name, home address, mission address/area"
scripture pens/markers
lint roller
water bottle, extra shoelaces & bodywash/soap
my stuffed animal
NOT taken anything that needed to be ironed!
an address book of family and close friends with their birthdays, address and email addresses
ENVELOPES with address written or LABELS & STAMPS
goodbye journal for members and missionaries to sign at transfers
ziplock bags (all different sizes, used for protecting scriptures, personal items, etc. Esp where you can't buy this in foreign countries)
skirts that were safe from the wind and good for biking all day....and GOOD SHOES
a map
"Definitely bring a picture of your family and Christ too. Also, I would suggest bring your patriarchal blessing!"
I wished I had marked my scriptures by the colors of Preach My Gospel
Memorize My Purpose (page 1 Preach My Gospel) and D&C 4!
Read the Bible and the Book of Mormon
copy of your Patriarchal Blessing
mini Bible and mini Book of Mormon and mini hymns and mini Preach my Gospel
Memorize the Living Christ and favorite scriptures
$$ save money $$
taken more time to study Preach My Gospel
lanyard for the MTC
mini 1st aid kit of things you would likely use, ie: tweezers, toenail clippers, bandaids, neosporine, headache medicine, MOLESKIN etc
Dr.scholls shoe inserts
small pair of scissors, stapler, a good knife (pocket knife)
chapstick - one for your bag and one for your bed
small mirror that can stand up
Nail stuff to keep your nails looking nice (nail clippers)
loofah, body scrubber
garden gloves for all those service projects
a Tide pen or 2
measuring cups (this was advice from a sister serving in Spain)
taken more time to study Preach My Gospel
notebooks
stamps, Stamps and STAMPS
pre-printed labels of the mission office. Use the label for the return address.
addresses/emails of loved ones
Skype or Facetime usernames and passwords - share with family at home too, makes Mothers Day and Christmas much easier. Write down phone #'s for your parents too.
USB to back up pictures
lots of little cards to use as thank you notes
cute stationary to write home and envelopes
pictures of your family and those that mean a lot to you, small photo albums, photos of hometown
taken more time to study Preach My Gospel
journal
baptism journal/photo album - something special or small gifts to those baptized
journal or something for everyone to sign/write in it. Teachers, investigators, companions, other sisters from the mission, ward members, etc
"small journal and write down all the hysterical/funny things your companions/other people/other missionaries say. It's amazing to look back at mine and laugh"
big binder to keep all talks, spiritual/ uplifting quotes, papers, easy recipes, hair styles & workout routines
taken more time to study Preach My Gospel
small memories of home or comfort item (blanket, teddy-bear
alarm clock you wake up to
"little notebooks to write down spiritual quotes or funny things said by your district"
more PJ's and pday clothes and more clothes
extra makeup
comfortable bed sheets, warm/fuzzy blanket
a watch
a bigger variety of skirts and tops that match
booklet of addresses or grandparents, cousins, siblings, friends & anyone I wanted to write a handwritten letter too.
add ALL your lds.net addresses in your email BEFORE you go to the MTC, much easier to write to family and friends
"passwords for skype, facebook, bank accounts, voicemail, anything you may need while you are gone. Actually, write down ALL your passwords and keep it somewhere safe. I put a copy in my email, so when I forget, I just go to my email" I am giving a copy to my mom, I trust her and she can help me if necessary.
set up a skype BEFORE you leave - write down the password and share it with someone (you will probably forget)
thermal garments if you go somewhere it will be cold
flip-flops, slippers, sandals for showering at the MTC
thin robe for the MTC
soft towel for MTC and sheets, if you are picky about what you sleep on
an alarm clock (esp. for MTC)
sheet music for musical numbers
taken more time to study Preach My Gospel
peanut butter (don't put in your carry on, airport will take it)
iPod with every EFY album known to man (or whatever music is allowed in your mission)
conferences on CD
Mormon messages DVD's
Get on a schedule and create some study habits established
Definitely go out teaching with the sisters in your area if you can- there's nothing better than experience!
go to institute and take as many classes as you can
taken more time to study Preach My Gospel
Skirts with pockets! So useful for carrying your agenda!
USB and a photo album of family and friends... loved ones:)
Garments garments garments!! And stamps!!
small pocket knife with tiny scissors & tweezers. "That was super handy."
safety pins
a split slip "So handy for windy days and such
an overnight bag for when you go on splits
toenail clipers
skirts with pockets (this one is mentioned a lot)
a sweatshirt "Seriously sometimes you want to chill at the end of a long day while writing in your journal and such."
roll of duct tape (always comes in handy)
american flip flops
tide to-go stick
little pocket mirror
umbrella
I wished I had a different variety of skirts
tape recorder with extra tapes
family pictures
*for CCM (Mexico MTC) bug netting and mosquito repellent
*served in Madagascar - macaroni and mild sauces
portable speaker (used a lot of teaching investigaors or listening to music with companion)
ear muffs and/or fleece headbands (if you have cold winters or a windy area)
duct tape
Tide to go pens, Oxi clean stain sticks, pre-treater stain sticks
rolls of quarters for laundry
ShoeGoo
music **approved by your mission, PLEASE double check and BUY your music, no illegal downloads (don't forget Christmas music too)
Plan of Salavation cards (in the language you are serving in)
hand warmers
fleece lined tights, long underware
measuring cups, spoons, recipes from home, your favorite spices (esp. if you are serving in a remote area of the world), taco seasoning, silicone mat
leatherman tool
metal shoehorn, shoe repair stuff, extra laces
sneaker balls for shoes
healthy snacks
sunscreen and reg. lotion, bug spray (**esp important if serving outside the USA where you can't get these things)
voice recorder
umbrella
flossers for permanente retainers, retainer brite (to clean your retainer)
beef jerky
golf ball (for knocking on doors, esp in cold months)
Pampered Chef scraper to get stuck on food off pans
"my own bar of soap in a travel container"
GOOD razors
SPICES (if you have your favorite or serving in a place where you can't get them)
"Leave a message on your mom, dad, siblings, bff's phone, something they can listen to when they miss hearing your voice"
Essential Oils (ONLY if you WILL use them and know what to use them for) **make sure the country you are traveling to allows transportation of these
leave your sizes with your mom, in case she needs to send you more clothes, shoes, garments
a speaker and approved device to play approved music on and downloaded lds.org talks
strong/comfortable work gloves (for doing service projects)
shout wipes, tide pen
modest (also not tight) workout clothes
recipes for quick meals, fav. meals that "mom" made
"less. I got so many clothes and things on the mission. I had to get rid of things at the end of my mission" "Same! I forgot my parents could send me stuff if needed" (keep in mind INTL shipping is expensive).
cookbook/recipes and a sketch book
duct tape (they don't sell it in South America)
GOOD socks
"More addresses from hoe so that I could have written more letters on pdays that weren't super busy. I love my family but totally forgot about some of my other friends."
a couple more dresses (I only brought one and wished I had more options than my skirts)
Per Sister Martin: Self standing collapsible laundry hampers. When you fold your laundry, these will help keep wrinkles away while transporting home
Sister Minks - "I brought a small pocket knife with the tiny scissors and tweezers. That was super handy. Long Extra pillows are also good. You can pack them in a vacuum sealed bag so they don't take up space. I got one pillow from the mission when I got there and that was the only one I had for the whole 18 months"
" I second the pockets! Skirts and dresses with pockets should be required they are so helpful! Also dresses in general, for when you can't handle a waistband or you don't know what to wear. Dresses were so nice. I was constantly in search of a good dress with pockets."
Sister Dutton - "Bring a USB with you with A LOT of songs, then another USB to back up pictures and documents. Get as much music as possible. Seriously. You will be listening to the same music a lot. Also bring a small speaker and its charger, you can plug in to amplify the sound of your DVD player. It's handy to have for getting ready for the day and when when watching DVDs with people you're teaching."
Sister Christensen - "I wish I would have taken some note cards. We were always writing little notes to each other, members, and investigators. You can get them super cheap at Michaels or JoAnn, esp. with a 40% off coupon. Also if you're going somewhere humid, metal necklaces rub against your skin and irritate it. I wore them to church but not every day. So I'd take less necklaces and more earrings/scarves to accessorize. I'd also take a blanket, even just an inexpensive fleece throw because the ones at the MTC aren't super cozy. They're like the brown hotel blankets."
Sister Diederich - "Vacuum seal packages for clothes, blankets etc, it will give you so much more room, music on flash drive, send your emails to your home email cuz you wont be able to access your lds email once you leave the mission,"
Sister Jackson - "It's more like what I wish I did while I was there. I wish I took more notes. I wish I wrote more letters. I wish I studied more. I wish I wrote in my journal more. I wish I had longer than I did. I wish I prayed longer and harder and more often. Don't get me wrong, you do a lot of all of this. But you'll realize your potential to do more as a missionary."
Sister Gibb - "I haven't gone yet but a few things that I am bringing include: a bike computer, a pocket knife, USB for pictures, SD card with music, and a speaker that will play the SD card, a blanket, a water bottle, a hand warmer, and a box of generic cards to hand write letters home along with stamps to send them:) also a small phot album of pictures of my family and friends."
....link to speaker that will play SD card that she bought http://amzn.to/2e0TNmR
Sister Peavler - "Cute paper/colored pens for notes/letters to members/companions ect. I didn't bring this and regretted it :) I'm not sure about other missions but in the Philippines they use notes ALOT."
Sister King - " If you're serving stateside a GPS is incredibly useful. I wish it had been on the packing list. You never know if your companion or area will have one. It's expensive but you can't get around without it!"
Sister Anderson - "Different colored pens, sticky notes, tide to go stick, little pocket mirror, umbrella, plain cards/ envelopes, no show socks, comfy relaxing clothes, bag for exchanges, good sturdy bag (I went through 4)..."
Brittany Wilkins - "Clothes that fit my personality :) I thought I had to wear the missionary like button up collared shirts and those just aren't me! I ended up having my mom send me a bunch of stuff from my closet at home."
Samantha Miles "Less clothes. More pens. And more garments. I also wish I would have brought my favorite lotion and body wash for those hard days when I wanted to smell home."
?how many sets of garments do you recommend?
Samantha Miles "honestly 10-12 because sometimes (due to transfers, broken machines, flat out forgetting to put your garments in the wash on time) you can just go a week without washing them... And I'm the sister who wishes she had brought LESS clothes so I am not being high-maintenance here when I say this haha. And you never know when some might rip.../get trashed.:
Jenessa Dover - "I'm with Samantha on the garments! I wish I had brought simpler outfits and another pair of nice but cheap flats for church. I wish I had also brought more pics of my family cause I would show investigators my family when they asked why we were there. It helps following the travel list they give you in your blue book."
Courtney Ridd - "Bring 14 pairs it's my recommendation! Just in case for when you're out in the field and if you can't do laundry/have transfers/are really busy
Also, I would say bring cards/envelopes or stationary for sure! You'll use it right up because stamps are so cheap in the MTC!"
Brittany Rigby - "Post- its. And sharpies. And pencils for the planner. And tape. Maybe it's because i went foreign and didn't know where to even begin getting these things the first little while i was there, but i always wished i had brought more! And totally with on the garment thing! I once went 4 weeks without a washer in a 4 man apartment...."
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Mackenzie Dolan - "cute stationary to leave notes at people's doors. Also depending on where you go some things may not be available to you like when you are home. For example I went to Japan and their toothpaste and deodorant were horrible. I kept asking my mom to send me more. Find out what is easy to get in your mission and what is not and that will give you a good idea."
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Thanks to Sister Ramirez for this post!!!
Sisters! Here is a list of things I wish I would have taken but didn't!
- A USB with church music, Mormon videos, church movies, EFY songs, ETC. They come in handy to have music on AND save pictures from the mission.
- Extra memory cards for my camera
- my teddy bear
- Pictures of my family and best friends
- I served in Mexico and know English and I wish I would have taken English grammar books and other materials to teach English. ie: English to Spanish dictionary
- gel highlighters and other cute novelties to give to my companions.
- An address book with friends addresses and emails
-thank you notes to give to people
-STATIONARY!
- An extra journal to have others write/ draw in
-a pocket sized BOM to have people highlight their favorite scriptures. IT helps for AFTER the mission
-Crayons, GLITTER, stamps, markers etc.
- Office supplies ( just a tiny bit of everything)
- recipes from home. ( yes even those cookies granny makes. ) even if they took forever but it helps with homesickness
-Favorite perfume or other scented item ( even if its in a small bottle, use it for when you are homesick)
-Sewing Kit
-object lesson items **more info will be in a separate link
Even if you don't have much space to pack "18 months of your life " in to, you can always buy those things in the field. ESPECIALLY clothes, pack these things. ( in my opinion, but you can do without these things)
Things I wish I DIDN'T pack: - 15 outfits -hangers -clothes I barely fit in to - too many winter things. The winters in Idaho and in Sonora were VERY different. A suit coat and long skirt or two would have done. The rest I could have bought over there. - Too many accessories, I ended up buying more in the field and didn't use what I took. - Too many clothes. I served in Mexico and bought my clothes in Idaho. I stood out like a sore thumb in the beginning. I bought more in the field for a lot cheaper and clothes that went more with the style there. - SHOES ARE NO REGRET ZONE FOR ME. I CAN NEVER HAVE TOO MANY OPTIONS
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from Sister Beaumont - " Bring versatile clothing pieces. I struggled to find matching shirts for my flowery skirts. Black skirts are really good, but make sure they aren't too flowy for windy areas. I had one that was like that and I am sure that hundreds of people saw my religion very clearly...."
from Kassidy Peterson (served in Spain)
"Alright girls- listen up
Adapters- you can get one at Walmart. I spent so much one looking around for a really nice one at all these fancy stores like target... Then I went to Walmart and they were the only ones that had em. Walmart is the bomb. The thing is that I didn't use a lot of heat on my hair in my mission- I curled it like twice and straightened it maybe once or twice because I was scared my stuff was going to blow up but it didn't! Haha but I think your best bet would to just buy the stuff there if you're one to straighten your hair everyday or use it lots. I kinda just went for the natural look haha
You can get a really good one for about 100 euros-
Deodorant: they have it there but not very good stuff and the good stuff is really expensive and hard to find so I suggest you just bring a supply with you"
"We had the privilege of hearing Elder Bednar speak at a Fireside in my stake about a month ago! Someone asked him this question and he said "become a missionary right now"! Share the gospel! Pray for missionary moments or go out teaching with the sisters in your free time"
"Watch "His Grace is Sufficient" by Brad Wilcox. My suggestion is watch it more than once"
"LOVE YOUR COMPANION NO MATTER WHAT" "Serve your companion."
"Look up specific Christ-like attributes. Practice them... on everyone!! Get those down before you go."
GREAT idea: "I used and still use a 4 color pen. I marked all my scriptures for teaching lessons in red so I could hand my scriptures to an investigator and just say the scripture were reading is there in red. I used blue for impressions in being a better leader and missionary, green was for other things that stood out while I was reading and I wrote notes in the margins in black."
"Plain short-sleeve shirts to match with outfits, seminary tools like scripture mastery cards or such, and I honestly wish that I brought better shoes for P-Day. I'm not a big fan of tennis shoes unless I'm running around, but sometimes there will be other things that you can do for activities on P-days and tennis shoes were hot and uncomfortable. I would've loved to have TOMS or converse or something"
"Journal for yearbook idea. Got one in the field, but wish I could have my MTC district elders and sisters sign. I got a few that I saw again in the field, but not the same after time passed."
"Read the Standard Works. That's what you'll be teaching, and it's good to know the material/have it in your mind so the Holy Ghost can bring it to your remembrance"
"Watch The District! When I first started preparing, that's what I did because I really had no idea what missions were like. No one in my family has served a mission, so I was pretty much clueless."
"Try to go to the temple every week for baptisms . And go on splits with the sisters as often as you can. Don't overwhelm yourself but those two things along with the basic scripture study and occasional preach my gospel were a huge help in preparation. Live on your own and learn to manage your money even if someone else is paying for it. Learn emotional independence as well."
"Learn to cook and do your own laudry and what not if you haven't already! And do them frequently! If you want a challenge, learn to play hymns on the piano or lead music, I've heard that as a missionary people always ask you if they need somebody. Read you scriptures, of course, and throw in some conference talks as well. Start studying Preach My Gospel. If you can, get a job and start saving. Try sticking to a schedule in your day. You don't have to do the standard missionary 6:30-10:30 one, obviously, but try to put a little more structure into you life, it'll help a lot. And do as much service as you can, to develop Christ-like love for people"
"Plan on following all of the rules no matter what. Don't ever let anything slide. Hold other missionaries up to the same standard!!"
"I made a poster size collage of family pictures for my son. It is on a small poster (small enough to fit in a suitcase) and then laminated. I wanted something like this on my mission. Then you can hang it on your wall in each apartment."
“This will be a long, (but possibly helpful) post...
It's a little of everything I've thought of that I'm getting for my mission, it
helps for packing and just making sure you have everything, but I'm worried
that I might be missing something... so here you go. It has nearly everything
you could need. (and if you think of something else that needs to be on the
list, please please please mention it in a comment, because I don't have much
more time before I leave....“
Immunization Card
Driver’s License
Passport/Visa
Current Temple Recommend
Scriptures
Four-generation pedigree chart (Family stories)
Hymnbook
Stationary Stuff
Stamps
Glasses (2)
Glasses Cleaner
Shaving Razor
Shaving Paste
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Dental floss
Mouthwash
Brush
Shampoo
Deodorant
Hand lotion
Makeup
Combs/ brushes
Shoe polish
Shower sandals
Clothes hangers
Asthma Medicine
Money
$100 Cash
True to the faith
Jesus the Christ
Our Heritage
Our Search for Happiness
Ipod
Speakers
Batteries
6-7 outfits
Garments (12)
Shoes (3)
1 jogging suit
Modest T-shirts
Tennis Shoes
Normal socks
Nice socks
Jeans
PJs
Umbrella
4 flat sheets
2 pillowcases
1 blanket
2 towels
Hand towels
Wash cloths
Mosquito repellent
Sunscreen
Chapstick
Sewing kit
Alarm clock
Laundry bag
Flashlight
Passport pictures (4)
Debit/credit card
Translator dictionary
Journal
Pens/paper
Highlighters
Scripture markers
Study Journal
Pillow
Watch
Camera (and stuff)
First Aide
Thermometer
Decongestant
Spray stuff
Allegra
Tylenol
Midol
Multi-vitamins,
Neosporen
Anti-itch cream
Anti-fungal cream
Pepto bismol (tablets)
Moleskin
Band aids
Alcohol based towlettes
Gauze
Tape
Hand mirror
Tweezers
Scissors
Fingernail clippers
Small Pocket Knife
Antacids
Antihistamines
Laxatives
Motion sicknesss
Purse(es)
Aloe Vera
Medial Insurance Card
Clarasil
Q - "Can you take a pocket knife? How are you supposed to get that through the airport?"
A - "If you put it in the bags you check, the airort wont have a problem. As long as you dont carry it on you should be fine." "It can't go in your carry-on bag (the one you will have with you), but it can be in your other bags, that you WON'T have access to on the plane. Heck, you could take an ice pick in your checked bags, if you wanted to. Although I don't know why you would want to. Here's the link that tells you what you can and can't bring in your carry-on and your checked bags."
Laminated pictures of family including
baptism, sealings, temple, in album, or on SD, USB, tablet, or phone, to show
investigators
Laminated pedigree chart and stories about
ancestors, digital photos of chart and stories
Printed and laminated line of authority for
priesthood holders or father or someone closer for Sisters
Spiritual journal and missionary journal
Bible and Triple Combination (instead of a
quad, to show the Book of Mormon is a companion to the Bible) in English-you
will be given your language at the MTC if needed.
Preach my Gospel in mini for easier
portability
Books in paper or Gospel Library, True to
the Faith, Jesus the Christ, Our Heritage, Our Search for Happiness
Laminator
Laminating pouches
Self Care, sickness, cleaning
Bring enough to last for your weeks in the
MTC or, plan to buy from the limited MTC store
Glasses, contacts, solution-backup glasses
are a NEED, sunglasses
shampoo and conditioner-whatever you’re
used to. LUSH bars are great if you’ll need to make it last
Deodorant-do you need to bring a mission
worth to get your favorite anti-perspirant?
Comb/brush and an extra, hair ties, bobby
pins, hair care supplies
At least two toothbrushes in case of
emergency and a cover of some sort, or toothbrush sanitizer, toothpaste, good
floss (check country for glide floss availability), mouthwash 3 x daily helps
stave off germs and shortens colds or sore throats, travel mouthwash container
to refill, keep one in side bag and one in toiletries tote.
Shaving supplies, deodorant, face lotion or
coconut oil, lip balm, tweezers, nail and toenail clippers
Hand sanitizer, spray bottles and rubbing
alcohol, and individual hand sanitizer wipes-THE BEST THING
Ear plugs and eye mask, extra ear plugs for
your roommates if you’re a snorer
Travel kleenex and nice, good quality
kleenex for sad MTC noses that don’t want to use awful bulk TP
Light make up and small mirror
Digestive enzymes-we use ½ to 1 per heavy
meal, vitamins, valerian, melatonin, or sleep aids, cold and allergy
medication, tylenol, imodium, oscillo for flu, echinacea, vicks vapo rub
Use a weekly pill container-fill on pday,
prescription medications go here too so you’ll remember if you took them
First aid; thermometer, advil and tylenol,
ointment, bandaids, moleskin for blisters, Bandaids, Qtips
Basic essential oils: peppermint-headaches,
bug repellent; lavender-burns, calming ;tea tree-fungal infections,
antibacterial; lemon-mood and cleaning, add a drop to water; clove-dental
issues
Sunscreen and bug spray
pillowcase and allergy cover if
needed-write “mom advice” or have family sign the pillow with fabric markers
microfiber bath towel, hand towel, norwex
travel wash cloths for face
Fragrance free baby wipes-for clothing
stain removal and quick washes of needed sweaty areas during travel
Diva cup, pads, or tampons for
females-research your area to see if you will want an 18 month supply
Yeast treatment for females
Heatable rice pack, heating pad, or hot
water bottle, will you have a microwave or hot water?
Wait to buy electric small appliances if
you’re in a new country so you don’t need an adapter
Spot remover and laundry pods or detergent,
there can be long lines in the MTC to buy it there
Ivory soap bar to swipe on pits and collars
to keep them white
Travel bar soap case
Travel leakproof TSA approved shampoo,
conditioner, etc. containers, use for travel and MTC showers-refill with your
larger bottles in your checked bag
General supplies and “junk drawer”
A scrapbook tote is a perfect portable desk
to keep office supplies, papers, and small items organized
Sewing kit-needles, black and white thread,
kid scissors, measuring tape with in. and cm. Safety pins
Paper clips, Rubber bands, thumbtacks-just
a few of each
Multicolor Pens, mechanical pencils and
refills, highlighters, notebooks, sharpies for labeling, other materials for
note taking and letter writing
Post it notes and notecards-you’ll go
through more stickies than you think
Travel battery, wind up, or regular alarm
clock with no radio. Even with tablet or phone missions, backups are good and
you might not want to charge your tablet in the same room as the bedroom for
less distraction
Small LED flashlight
travel phillips and straight screwdriver or
multitool, pack in checked baggage or they will be confiscated at TSA
Bike tool kit if on bikes, call first to
see if leftover bikes are available before you buy one
Extra baggies for storage, organization,
and checked baggage liquids in case of leaking, and for wet wipes
Duct tape wrapped on a pencil for small
storage-someone always needs duct tape
Scripture marking kit, test for bleed
through. I like colored pencils
Holy Tabbs, make sure you buy the right
size I love this marking system with tabs!
Lint roller
Inexpensive Watch
Work gloves if needed for service, touch
screen tip is nice
White handkerchiefs for sweaty missionaries
to keep in their pocket
Water bottle, filtering or regular. Check
mission specifications on level of filtering needed
Extra shoelaces
Extra batteries for items if you’re in a
country where they are not available
Apron-save your clothes! Family can sign
this with a fabric marker too
3M hooks and extra sticky backs
Comfort blanket or stuffed animal
Adapter for your country, check that you
have the right countries, do you need a converter too? And wait to buy electric
appliances when possible for fewer adapter needs
Pillow if you’re going international and
might want your fluffy one
Sheet sets are generally bought in your
area but, we like our sleeping bag liners instead. I feel like they protect
better from bed bugs and other yucky things. If you are near North Salt Lake,
Travel Outfitters has some liners too and they can spray any clothes or linens
with permethrin to keep the bugs at bay.
It’s an inexpensive and relatively safe treatment, at least much safer
than other insect remedies and you won’t have to deal with bed bugs.
Clothes-LABEL EVERYTHING! Fabric markers or
custom iron on tapes work
12 garments, Sisters want extra bottoms,
bring extra if you’re in a remote area, check best fabric for the area
Suits and shirts or Outfits for
proselytizing according to your mission packet
2 good walking dress shoes at least and
inserts if needed, I frequently post sales on the group for good shoes
shoe polishing kit, Polishing your shoes
frequently will keep them nice and help with waterproofing
Shower sandals, get ones that you can wear
with socks with for indoor shoes for sock savers
Slippers if you’re used to wearing them
around the house
Tennis shoes/running shoes/work shoes
Good socks like drymax, nylons, tights, no
show socks, if layering with leggings make sure they tuck into boots
Dress belt
1-2 nice sweaters plus sweatshirts or
hoodies as needed
Exercise clothing-basketball shorts or
sweats and t-shirts are common, use for pajamas, 5 days of exercise/wk
Activity clothing to do service work in;
jeans and t-shirt
Spandex shorts/split slip, etc. for under
skirt in windy areas
A skirt extender or slip
Clothes packed on lightest plastic hangers,
metal can rust
MTC weather can be colder or warmer than
expected. Ask to borrow seasonal items there if you need to if you are
traveling to a country where you will not be packing these items.
Seasonal
Winter coat with zip out liner or layer
it-be aware of your area weather and waterproofing/cold needs
Waterproof jacket, breathable and packable,
we buy large to use as a top layer, this is our favorite
Cold weather accessories-gloves, scarf, ear
bands, winter hat
Good umbrella-be aware of your area, is
wind a problem?
Waterproofer for bags, coats, etc.
Boots or sandals as needed for mission
Sweaters or jackets to layer under coats
and for chilly weather
Thermal underwear, sometimes better than
thermal garments because you can remove them when warm
Photography,
electronic, media
Camera, SD card, battery-or plan to use
your phone or tablet
Non radio speaker with micro SD card filled
with mission music
Sd or USB for photo backup from tab or
phone
Snacks and food
Stevia for sweetening or drinks, Drink
mixes if you need more motivation to drink water
Protein powder, dried fruit, beef jerky,
nuts, microwave popcorn, and pringles all pack well
MTC food can be very different than you are
used to and many missionaries report “back ups” so eat your fresh fruit and
veggies, choose whole grain cereal, and take your fiber! Food may not be taken
out of the cafeteria and vending machines don’t have great options. Your
favorite protein bar or fiber bar could come in handy in between meals or if
you’re on early dinner (as early as 4:30)
Papers
and documents
Drivers license (check expiration) and
driving record if needed
Passport (check expiration)
Immunization record
Temple recommend
Laminated patriarchal blessing-shrink to
scripture size
Wallet, emergency credit card and cash
Mission maps
4 generation pedigree chart with your name
on 1st line
Family history and mission stories
Copy of mission call
Health insurance card
Cookbooks
Menu planner/calendar template
BUY AT
MTC
$5
Calling card for airport, know how to use it or people often offer for you to
use their cell phone
Check with the MTC for current rules on
airport phone calls
LUGGAGE
and extras
Know the dimensions and weights for your
flights and mission before buying luggage. Know the terrain and how often you
will travel. Two wheel bags are needed for dirt or cobblestone and are handy on
trains or for lots of travel. Four wheel Spinners might be ok for domestic and
car travel. Luggage repair shops see spinners in often and they know you’re
most likely better off with a two wheel bag.
ILC Travel Outfitters in North Salt Lake or online has a great set that they
manufacture and they also have a great mission prep class where they will teach
you how to pack. This Briggs and Riley carry-on is the Cadillac of carry-ons
and lifetime guaranteed.
Practice packing and leave plenty of weight
open for the books the MTC will give you. If you’re heavy, wear your heaviest
boots and put your heaviest things in your carryon which is usually not
weighed. Overweight checked luggage will be charged a huge fee. A luggage scale
is the best way to know your weight.
Nesting luggage is handy for storage in
apartments when possible
Shoe bags or leftover plastic grocery bags
to pack shoes in to keep luggage items clean
Packing cubes with mesh or clear tops to
organize undergarments, socks, pjs and active clothes, pday clothes-can keep
clothes in these and place in drawers or use for drawers in apartments for easy
packing
Typical luggage will include two large
suitcases or one large and one medium, one carryon, and one side bag
Hanging toiletry bag to hang in the shower
and when getting ready
Laundry bag for both whites and darks
Waterproof missionary bag like Timbuk2
Classic or Timbuk2 Command. These also have a waist strap to keep them in place
for biking. Small or Medium seem to be the go to sizes. There is often one
color for half price and I will post them on the group.
Jewelry organizer
Passport wallet and money belt
Fake cheap wallet with a couple of small
bills in case of robbery
A Travel Pillow can make a long flight,
especially a long flight with no headphones, much more comfortable. My favorite
pillow is this Travelrest and it’s gotten me through several International
flights. This generic inflatable pillow also did the trick though. Practice
with them BEFORE the flight so you know where your level of inflation is most
comfortable. You use it more as a side pillow or for the front of your neck,
not behind the head. If you are international, you should be given a small
fleece blanket and that can go over the pillow to make it softer. It has also
come in handy just to beef up an international pillow. We have very fluffy
pillows in the U.S. compared to many places.
Gifts
Gifts from your area are appreciated by
other missionaries or investigators. Think local and inexpensive here. Salt
water taffy from Utah? Canned pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice, root beer extract,
etc. Find out some favorites that might not be in your new area. CTR rings or
other LDS gifts are also fun.
If foreign, family can send small birthday,
holiday, and “just need a little pick me up” labeled bags and labeled letters
to be opened at the right time. Wrapped presents are sometimes opened but you
can tape bags and put them all in one area or one screenable container that is
able to be opened when TSA is screening it. If you want to know about a bad way
to check a gift, just ask me about the “American Root Beer bomb” that my dad
wrapped up in mylar bubble wrap to give to our friends...needless to say, it
did not survive, nor did any of the glass and root beer filled clothes in that
suitcase. Machines can’t see through mylar.
TO DO
Collect all passwords-email, social media,
bank accounts
Power of attorney to access medical, bank,
and school records
Unpick chest pocket stitches on suits or
jackets
Get a visa and debit card, know the PIN,
keep a limited amount on debit in case of theft
photocopy everything-put mom and dad on the
accounts too when applicable
Notify bank and cards of new place of
residence and travel, check that they have it on record
Make or buy luggage tags for each bag, use
them inside and outside, make them easily identifiable and add special ribbon
or color to easily identify your luggage. Bright handle wraps or luggage straps
can help too.
Label all clothes and things with fabric
markers, iron on labels, or sharpies, a silver sharpie works well on dark items
like the inside of luggage and bags or inside of suit coats
mark socks with one color of embroidery
thread and an initial or symbol, too many clothes go missing at the MTC
Put drivers insurance on hold-ask about
mission hold for no fees
Put cell phone on mission hold if possible,
t-mobile has this available for no fee
Take notes during setting apart
blessing-type notes to send to missionary, keep with patriarchal blessing
Let Elders give a blessing to the members
of the family before he leaves
Set up a separate email for your missionary
to copy all emails to so emails won’t disappear when the LDS email disappears.
Set up a mission blog, website, or email
contact lists for friends and family to keep in touch
Discuss photo saving, SD card, USB, gmail
then family saves on drive? My son is
not allowed to use google photos because it can’t be monitored. Be aware that
it might not be an option.
For your
missionary (advice for moms)
TEACH YOUR MISSIONARY WHAT THEY HAVE IN
THEIR BAG! So important! mom can buy and pack if needed but print this list for
advice and go through supplies together. I understand what it means to have a
busy missionary prepper but if they have soap bars in their bag and don’t know
that they’re to wipe on pits and collars they won’t be used the right way.
Practice packing and unpacking, understand
luggage weight and overage charges. We like to pack the largest suitcase with
items that won’t be used until they get to the field so they only have a
carryon and one suitcase to mess with at the MTC. If you are in the MTC for 2-3
weeks you can just pack the carryon for MTC use.
Know how TSA liquids work, 3.4 oz or 100 ml
is the max per bottle, these must fit into a quart baggie for anything in a
carryon. You will take out the baggie and set it in a bin when going through security.
Liquids in your checked luggage can be as large as you want but put them in
gallon baggies or spillproof toiletry bags. Air pressure can make them leak.
Pack up the bedroom so for two weeks before
the MTC you only have what you’re bringing plus an outfit or two if needed for
work and play. Get used to living life with these limited items.
"don't bring skirts that are too short, not worth it!"
"Not grossly over pack like I did lol. Also, to be more familiar with the other books in the missionary library.
I packed waaay too many products in particular. This might be different if one is serving abroad, but for us state side sisters, its not necessary to bring a million outfits and pack several things of toothpaste, deodorant and conditioners, etc. I had to throw out a bunch of stuff at the mtc cuz I was over the weight limit, and got to buy all that stuff once I got to the field anyways, lol I would, in regard to products & most non clothes related things, just bring enough for the mtc and maybe 2 weeks in the field, cuz yaay pday shopping! lol. Books are "Our Search for Happiness," "Jesus The Christ" and "Our Heritage" read them before you report if you can."
"I wish I would have taken a lighter set of English scriptures (my quad was pretty heavy), and I wish I wouldn't have brought a comforter...I ended up leaving it in the mission office my entire mission and then I actually left it in Brasil."
"1) I had a really quick routine. Foundation, mascara, powder, blush, lip gloss. I wore eyeshadow on special occasions. 2) Very rarely is your carry-on weighed, so I wouldn't worry about it too much. The 12 lbs. is books so you can distribute them. But be warned, you will accumulate things in the MTC so you might want to reevaluate. 3) I wish I had brought 18 months worth of deodorant and tampons. I wish I had left behind my sheets, I NEVER used them and even if I had I could have bought them in the field."
