Getting ready for a Service Learning Trip abroad requires a lot of preparation. If you are preparing to volunteer in Antigua, Guatemala, knowing what to put in your suitcase is the first step towards making the preparation process as smooth as possible. The climate in the highlands fluctuates, and the daily work you’ll be doing requires specific gear. Plus, if you have added excursions or exploring of the city planned for your time outside of the field days, you’ll need to be prepared for that.

To help you get organized, here is a practical travel packing list based on what the average volunteer will need for this location.

Clothing and Footwear

The weather changes drastically between day and night because of the altitude. Your daily schedule will also involve a lot of moving around in said weather.

• Layers for Changing Weather: The days are usually warm, but mornings and evenings can be cold. Bring lightweight t-shirts for the daytime, but make sure to pack a thick fleece, sweatshirt, or jacket for the nights.

• Sturdy Walking Shoes: You will walk a lot on uneven ground. Closed-toe sneakers or light hiking shoes with good traction are required. Avoid thin sandals or flats, as the historic stone streets are hard to navigate.

• Rain Gear: If your trip falls between May and October, it will most likely rain frequently. Pack a durable rain jacket or a heavy-duty poncho that fits easily into a backpack.

• Scrubs: It is not compulsory, but highly recommended volunteers who will be working in mobile clinics bring scrubs to wear in the field.

Health and Field Essentials

When you volunteer in Antigua, you will be spending long hours working outdoors. Protecting your health keeps you safe and energized for the projects you will be assisting with.

• Sun and Bug Protection: The sun is very strong at high altitudes. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. You also need bug spray with DEET or picaridin for outdoor work sites.

• Personal First Aid: Pack standard over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, anti-diarrhea pills, and rehydration salts. A bottle of hand sanitizer is also helpful for lunch breaks in the field.

• Reusable Water Bottle: You cannot drink the tap water in Guatemala. Bring a sturdy, insulated water bottle that you can refill at the volunteer base to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Electronics and Documents

Keeping your items safe and functional while working away from the main base is important.

• Power Bank: While outlets are the same as in the US and Canada, power outages can happen. A portable external battery charger ensures your phone stays charged during long workdays.

• Small Backpack: You need a small daytime bag to carry your water, rain jacket, and personal items to the work site every morning.

Preparing properly to volunteer in Antigua, Guatemala makes the entire experience run smoother. By packing these specific items, you can focus entirely on the daily tasks and support the community efficiently. For more information about packing and SLT preparation, check out our FAQ page!

If you are interested in participating in our volunteer opportunities in Guatemala, check out our upcoming trips, download our brochure, or fill out the contact form below!