It’s the opportunity of a lifetime and you can’t wait to get out on your mission trip. You want it to be the best experience possible as you’ve been dreaming of this chance to serve, but it’s hard to know what to bring on the trip.

Don’t worry! Keep reading as we have the ultimate mission trip packing list so you’ll have everything you need.

Mission Trip Packing List Essentials

You’ll want to make sure you have the daily essentials to get you through the day. This will include any medications you take or vitamins you use. You’ll also want to bring any toiletries such as:

  • toothbrush and toothpaste
  • brush or comb
  • soap, shampoo, and conditioner
  • sunscreen, chapstick, and skin lotion
  • deodorant or antiperspirant 

Don’t forget the items you use regularly in your daily routine. This may include contact lens solution, razors, and facial cleansers. You may want to bring bug spray as well just to be sure you don’t get caught off guard by mosquitos or other pests as you are working outside in New Orleans.

Towels, Linen, and Bedding

It’s a good idea to make sure you can get a comfortable sleep by bringing a pillow, sheets, and blankets. Many people find the best combination to be a sheet and sleeping bag with a light pillow. 

Face cloths and towels should be included in your mission trip packing list as well. 

Clothing to Include in Your Mission Trip Packing List

While on your mission trip you’ll have the opportunity to serve and to worship so you’ll want appropriate attire for both situations. There are no laundry rooms available on campus for use so it is suggested that you pack enough clothing to last throughout the trip. There are machines at two facilities across the street but that can be expensive and who wants to spend their spare time doing chores when you could be having fun?

While performing service on your mission you’ll want comfortable clothing that you can move around in easily and that you don’t mind getting dirty. Your footwear will be a defining factor in your comfort level and safety. You’ll want to have shoes that give you good support and offer protection. 

While you don’t need to be dressed formally for worship you’ll also want clothing that is appropriate for services. 

Other Supplies

You’ll find it helpful to have your scriptures with you. For many, that means having your cell phone charged and ready though many people find it helpful to bring a physical bible with them as well.

There will be some free time for you to explore the city and enjoy the sights with your group or in smaller subsections of it. While we encourage groups to stay together, it is nice to be able to easily use your cell phone to search what’s around you and stay in contact with others from your group.

Also, you’ll probably want to buy some souvenirs to take home and help you remember your trip to New Orleans so make sure to bring some spending money with you so that you can. (Pro tip: forgot to grab something on your trip? You can also check out the MissionLab store for merch!)

Housing and meals are provided with your MissionLab package but you may want to pack a few of your favorite snacks to enjoy while relaxing in your off-hours.

Group Leaders or Mission Coordinators

Your group leader will need to add a few things to their list of what to bring on a mission trip. They will need to have all the paperwork and financial details worked out for the group.

This will include the final deposit, release forms for each member of the team, and all the supplies your team will need at your ministry site. You’ll also want to have a cooler so your team can have cold drinks throughout the day.

What Not to Include on Your Mission Trip Packing List

There are a few things you shouldn’t bring with you as they are prohibited on any mission trip. This includes anything dangerous, illegal, or immoral. 

No alcohol, drugs, fireworks, firearms (whether legal or not), other weapons, skateboards or scooters.

Nothing you wear or carry should promote drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or sex.

While you may be serving with a close group of friends or trying to make new ones there is a policy against pranks during trips to MissionLab. This means you should leave things like silly string, shaving cream, confetti, and other prank supplies at home. 

Pack a Positive Attitude

One of the most important things to bring with you on your mission is a positive attitude. Many families, groups, and individuals have life-changing experiences on their mission because they showed up with an open mind and a humble desire to serve. 

You’ll be interacting with and meeting people from all walks of life while you’re in New Orleans. When you’re out there “loving your neighbor”, remember, that God knew your neighbor would look, feel, and talk, differently than you. That is kind of the whole point of the commandment. If it was easy He wouldn’t have had to command us to do it over and over again.

Make a Difference One Person at a Time

You may not change the entire world on your mission trip but you can change the world for one person at a time. The first person that you’ll change it for is yourself. If you put your heart and soul into your MissionLab experience you can find a closer relationship with God, with others in your group, and a deeper love and understanding for sharing the Gospel. 

Having the right mission trip packing list will help you enjoy your experience even more. For more information on MissionLab connect with us today!