Documents and essential travel items
Keep essential documents, medication, one change of clothes, and basic toiletries in your carry-on. Checked luggage can be delayed, and the team may not have time to replace a critical item immediately.
- Passport valid for at least six months after travel
- Copy of passport stored separately
- Travel insurance information
- Flight and team itinerary
- Emergency contacts
- Signed forms required by the team
- Payment method and a modest amount of personal cash
Clothing for heat, rain, and ministry
Izabal is generally 80–90°F throughout the year. The rainy season runs from May through October, but rain is possible at other times. Choose breathable, quick-drying clothing that can handle work, travel, worship, and shared meals.
- Modest shirts and lightweight work pants
- Church or ministry clothing appropriate to local guidance
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Sleepwear and undergarments
- Swimsuit suitable for the team’s guidelines
- Hat and sunglasses
- Laundry bag and a few resealable bags
Shoes
Do not bring brand-new work shoes without breaking them in. Wet conditions, heat, boat travel, and uneven ground make dependable footwear more important than packing several options.
- Closed-toe work shoes or boots for construction and projects
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals or shower shoes for campus use
Health and personal care
Discuss significant medical needs with the team leader before travel. Do not rely on the mission clinic or another participant to supply your regular medication.
- All prescription medication in original containers
- Basic personal first-aid supplies
- Sunscreen and lip protection
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Electrolyte packets if appropriate for you
- Personal toiletries and feminine-hygiene products
- Any allergy or emergency medication you normally carry
Service and team items
Bring only the tools, medical equipment, ministry supplies, or donations confirmed by El Faro and your team leader. Unrequested items can create transportation, customs, storage, and distribution problems.
- Work gloves and basic protective gear if requested
- Bible, journal, and pen
- Small daypack
- Headlamp or compact flashlight
- Confirmed project or ministry supplies
- Team shirt if your group uses one
Technology and electricity
Use technology carefully in communities and ministry settings. Ask before photographing people, avoid turning every interaction into content, and follow the team’s privacy guidance.
- Phone and charging cable
- Portable battery pack
- Camera only if you understand the photography rules
- Downloaded copies of essential travel information
What not to pack
- Unapproved medicine or medical supplies
- Large quantities of donated goods that were not requested
- Valuable jewelry or unnecessary electronics
- Clothing that does not fit work or ministry expectations
- Tools the project does not need
- Items restricted by airlines, borders, or local law
Pack with cultural respect
Modest dress communicates respect in churches and communities. Clothing that works at a resort may not be appropriate for a home visit, clinic, Bible program, or worship service.
Leave room for flexibility rather than packing for every imagined scenario. El Faro’s team will provide current guidance based on the season, project, and itinerary.