Packing

Dear God, I have so many things I want to bring to Africa.  When I was going to Azerbaijan, I was pretty well set.  I fit everything in a carry-on suitcase, a giant backpacking backpack, and an ancient suitcase my mother unearthed from our basement.  I was well under the weight limits and could even throw in some extra stuff because why not?  Then, I spent all summer waiting around for Departure Take 2, and I realized I’ve accumulated so much unneeded shit during that time.  I’m still fitting it all in those same bags (plus another small backpack) but it is packed so tightly!

Anyway, here are some pictures during the process, as well as the baggage restrictions the Peace Corps gave us, since I’ve gotten a lot of questions about that.  Here you are!

Clothing. Not pictured: a whole ton of underwear, bras, socks, workout clothes, and yoga pants.

Technology. It’s nice.

Miscellaneous stuff. Not pictured: my toiletries (shampoo, toothbrush, deodorant, diva cup, etc.) as well as a whole bunch of other random stuff.

Sidsel. My precious kitty had a really hard time staying off my bed while I was packing. She finally got to reclaim it here.

GUIDELINES:

• You may bring two checked bags, one carry-on, and one personal item. Any additional baggage that you choose to bring will be at your own expense.
• Checked baggage should not exceed 100 pounds total with a maximum weight allowance of 50 pounds for any one bag.
• The combined linear dimensions (length + width + height) of all your checked baggage may not exceed 107”. The larger piece of checked baggage may not exceed 60”. Your carry-on baggage may not exceed a total linear measurement of 45”.
• You are allowed to carry-on one bag and one personal item such as a purse or briefcase. All carry-on luggage must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Size and weight restrictions vary by airline.
• The Peace Corps recommends that you do not bring more than you can carry. You will be responsible for handling your luggage en route to post and overseas.